A total of 2 322 students have graduated from Limkokwing University Botswana and has been challenged to shift mindset in terms of expecting to find jobs lying for them hence urged to use the skills they have acquired from school to create jobs opportunities for themselves.
The Minister of Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Technology (MOTE), Thapelo Olopeng said the ministry is working around the clock for institutions of higher learning to produce globally competitive graduates. “We are working around the clock for institutions of higher learning to develop futuristic and industry specific programmes that can meet the demands of the market. This is the goal that institutions of higher learning should pursue in order for our graduates to become competitive, Olopeng said while officiating at the graduation ceremony.
According to Olopeng, Botswana can only achieve this transformational agenda to become a better country through the stern commitment and efforts of the graduates saying change does not happen on its own.
He said the country needs graduates to innovate or develop solutions that solve the world problems. “We also need your institutions and other stakeholders to join hands with government and bring about attitudinal change amongst our people to see work and business opportunities beyond our borders,” Olopeng asserted.
Minister Olopeng further underscored that BQA continues to adapt to the ever changing education environment in order to make it more relevant, quality driven and learner-centered. ‘’In this connection, I am pleased to note that Limkokwing University complies with the regulatory requirements that have been defined by the BQA. I wish to urge the leadership of the institution to ensure that they continue to invest in quality programmes that are aligned to the needs of the global world that we are part of,’’ he added.
For his part, Founder and President of Limkokwing University, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Paduka Dr Limkokwing has urged the graduates to stay focused and connected. “You now join the many Limkokwing alumni who are writing their own success stories across the world. And you will be creating footprints right here or wherever you choose to be. You will transform industry, transform this country and Botswana is ought to be proud of you,” Dr Limkokwing said giving word of motivation to the graduates.
The graduation for this year was held under the theme The highlight of this year’s graduation, held under the theme “Design the Future’’, was the 1 787 students who graduated from the Target 20 000, a partnership project between Limkokwing University and the then Ministry of Education and Skills Development.
Best performing students across different faculties have been also offered fully sponsored Master’s Degree scholarships in Limkokwing university camp in Malaysia.