Boitekanelo College has responded to the national debate on minimum wage by introducing a P4,000 baseline salary and a dignified internship model aimed at ensuring fair compensation and meaningful work experience for students.
According to the college’s founder, Dr. Tiroyaone Mampane, the initiative is anchored on four core pillars of conviction.
The Principle of Human Dignity
Mampane maintains that every individual contributing their labour—whether it’s the dedicated facilities staff, vigilant security personnel, or energetic interns—deserves a wage that transcends basic survival and upholds human dignity and respect.
The Paradigm of Enhanced Productivity
Rejecting outdated economic models that view wages merely as a cost, Mampane said: “We understand, through empirical evidence and progressive practice, that well-compensated employees are more productive, innovative, and loyal. This is not an expense; it’s a strategic investment in our most valuable asset—human capital.”
The Mandate of Nation-Building
Having deployed over 7,000 graduates across Botswana’s public and private sectors, Boitekanelo sees itself as a role model in fair employment practices. “We are committed to fostering a culture of equity that can influence industries and contribute to a more just and prosperous nation,” Mampane said.
Alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
By introducing the P4,000 wage structure, the college directly contributes to key global goals:
- SDG 1: No Poverty– lifting employees and interns above the poverty line.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth– promoting fair labour standards and economic activity.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities– encouraging a more equitable distribution of income and opportunities.
Boitekanelo currently employs 240 staff, including interns.
Dr. Mampane said the college is committed to dismantling exploitative internship models. Every intern will receive a minimum stipend of P4,000, alongside structured mentorship and comprehensive skills development designed to equip them for long-term success. Clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) have also been introduced to ensure transparency and accountability in performance evaluation.
“Our impact is measurable and our commitment is demonstrable,” Mampane added. “Since our inception, we have successfully deployed 7,342 graduates, significantly contributing to Botswana’s workforce. We’re proud of our 89 percent absorption rate, particularly in the healthcare sector, where our graduates are making a real impact.”
The college has also established partnerships with various private-sector organisations to facilitate student placements, bridging the gap between academia and the workforce. By 2030, Boitekanelo aims to open three regional campuses to increase access to quality education across the region.
Since its founding, the institution has been guided by the core values of Botho, Excellence, and Transformative Social Impact.
Government Endorsement
Speaking at the official launch of the initiative, Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Pius Mokgware, praised Boitekanelo College’s progressive wage policy, calling it both commendable and exemplary.
“Their decision to align their wage structure with government’s recently announced principles resonates strongly with the commitments articulated in the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC)’s election manifesto,” he said.
Mokgware highlighted three key ILO principles that Boitekanelo’s policy supports:
Fair Remuneration
Citing the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Mokgware noted that workers have the right to wages that not only meet basic needs but also ensure dignity, community participation, and a decent standard of living. He commended the college’s P4,000 minimum wage as a practical reflection of that principle.
Social Dialogue
Mokgware emphasised the importance of inclusive engagement between government, employers, and workers in crafting equitable wage policies. “We remain committed to fostering a culture of social dialogue in wage determination across all sectors,” he said.
The Goal of Decent Work
Decent work, he noted, is about more than just salary. It includes workplace security, social protection, personal development, and equal opportunities. “By ensuring a fair minimum wage, Boitekanelo is laying a vital foundation for realising this broader vision,” Mokgware said.
