Underprivileged youth urged to look beyond handicaps
Monday, August 14, 2023 | 120 Views |

Unity Dow addressing children at Bontleng recreational park PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG
Dow's message was delivered at a career expo organised by Setlogelwa Tsatsing at Bontleng Recreational Park. She acknowledged that while the nation aspires for all children to have dignified upbringings, the persistence of poverty in many Botswana households hinders the realisation of this goal, depriving children of the essential dignity needed for a promising future.
“I know that the circumstances in which you find yourself can be very uncomfortable but while the country grows and plans are made to ensure a dignified living for all children, I urge you young fellows to not give up on your dreams,” she said. Dow, a human rights lawyer, emphasised that the adversity of poverty and limited income, present in today's society, historically motivated earlier generations to work diligently and elevate the nation from the depths of destitution. She believes that the trials faced by today's youth in low-income regions can be transformed into opportunities for dreaming and striving towards improved livelihoods.
“Growing up in Mochudi, I also faced similar challenges, during our time the social amenities which you enjoy today were unfathomable during our time, but this did not stop our quest to build a better Botswana, we worked hard, and this is how we achieved all that you see today,’’ she said. She highlighted the democratising influence of free education in Botswana, affording all children nationwide the opportunity to actively pursue their dreams and enhance their lives. She underscores that education encompasses not only academics but also practical skills, encouraging the youth to embrace all facets of learning. "Rise to the occasion and take your education seriously,” she urged.
Supporting Dow's sentiment, local artist Macgyver Serero, widely recognised as DJ Guyvos, asserts that the creative industry provides a platform for young Batswana to harness their inherent talents for livelihoods, as he did from an early age. Serero's journey as a successful DJ serves as a testament to the viability of realising one's potential through dedication and perseverance.
“As long as you work hard on your God-given talent, there will always be a way for you,” he said. As Unity Dow and DJ Guyvos echo the same encouraging refrain, they emphasise that with diligence, determination, and a focus on personal strengths, young individuals can overcome obstacles and carve out prosperous futures.
We duly congratulate them to have ousted the long ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) from power. Prior to taking power from the BDP, the coalition had made several election promises that are credited for influencing change and swaying the people to vote in its favour.The party had made an undertaking, which its leader and President Duma Boko consistently bellowed in his campaign trail. These undertakings were promises that Batswana would be...