The Ministry of Sports and Arts is taking decisive steps to reintegrate school sports into Botswana’s education system, aiming for full implementation by April 2025.
Speaking in a post-budget interview this week, Minister Jacob Kelebeng revealed that consultations with key stakeholders, particularly teachers’ unions, are underway to ensure a smooth transition.
School sports were suspended in March 2020 due to budgetary constraints, initially as a temporary measure. However, the prolonged hiatus has cast a shadow over Botswana’s sporting legacy.
“Teachers are the most important stakeholders,” Kelebeng emphasised.
“We cannot implement school sports without their involvement, which is why discussions with teachers’ unions are a priority.”
The Ministry of Child Welfare and Basic Education, previously responsible for school sports, will reclaim its mandate, supported by the Ministry of Sports and Arts (MOSA), the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Health, and private sector partners.
Although Kelebeng refrained from setting specific targets, he expressed confidence that progress would be made this month. “If all goes according to plan, school sports will return in April,” he stated.
The revival of school sports is expected to play a crucial role in nurturing young athletes, fostering talent development, and promoting healthy lifestyles among Botswana’s youth.
Kelebeng also reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to resolving disputes within the sports sector, particularly regarding the Golden Grand Prix, a high-profile athletics event. He confirmed that the event’s rights would be restored to its original organiser, Glody Dube.
“We have engaged all stakeholders, and there is consensus that the event should return to him,” Kelebeng stated. “He is the rightful owner, and there is no reason to withhold our support.”
The Golden Grand Prix, organised by Golden Door Sports Agency, has faced operational challenges in recent years. Kelebeng assured that the Ministry would step in when necessary to safeguard Botswana’s sporting interests.
Recognising the critical shortage of sporting facilities, especially for athletics, Kelebeng highlighted a strategic partnership with the University of Botswana (UB) as a key development.
“Many people are unaware that UB has a high-performance center superior to some in South Africa,” Kelebeng noted.
“Yet, our athletes lack access to it. We are working to change that by creating an ecosystem where they can utilise these facilities.”
He also expressed the Ministry’s desire to refurbish UB Stadium, making it more accessible to a broader range of athletes.
Private sector partnerships are playing a role in infrastructure improvements.
“FNB is already refurbishing Maun Stadium,” Kelebeng revealed.
“We are in talks with other companies to enhance sports facilities across the country.”
The government aims to create a conducive environment where athletes have access to modern, well-maintained facilities to support their development and competitiveness.
Despite these efforts, financial challenges remain a concern. Kelebeng acknowledged the constraints but assured that sports development remains a government priority.
“As a new administration, we inherited financial difficulties,” he explained. “However, we are committed to supporting our sports sector. Too often, we neglect the foundation—sports development itself. Our goal is to provide the Botswana National Sports Commission (BNSC) with the full support it needs.”
The BNSC plays a crucial role in coordinating and managing sports activities nationwide. Strengthening its operations is seen as essential for the long-term growth of Botswana’s sports sector.
Kelebeng stressed that revitalising the sports sector is vital for national development and urged both public and private stakeholders to collaborate with the government in this effort.
Beyond infrastructure and program development, Kelebeng expressed optimism about the potential of sports to create employment opportunities for young people.
“We are committed to cultivating job opportunities for the youth,” he affirmed.
“By building a strong sports ecosystem, we can create pathways for employment and entrepreneurship.”
Despite financial hurdles, the government’s renewed focus on sports development signals a promising future for Botswana’s athletes and sports enthusiasts alike.
