Female soldiers start training in October

 In a briefing to the candidates, Brigadier George Tlhalerwa said yesterday that after advertising for female cadet officers, the BDF received a total of 1,238 applications out of which 865 had degrees. He added that they had to increase the age limit to accommodate candidates with special skills such as dentists and doctors.

Tlhalewa said that BDF is sending the recruits to Tanzania because it has good relations with Botswana. In addition, Tanzania is willing to train all the recruits, while other countries offered to train just one. Tlhalerwa briefed the candidates about BDF operations and ranks. He told them to be punctual and accept what had been decided about their employment. He warned them to forget about social life once they become soldiers. He said they would be recalled from leave to do military duties when the need arises. He advised the women to put national service first and to obey instructions.