Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Africa Links 24
Published on 2024-03-22 13:07:08
Kelebogile ‘’Kelly’’ Baitshoki, an Assistant Administrator at Children in the Wilderness (CITW) Botswana, along with Gaba and Wilderness Botswana Community Liaison Officer, Sam Kavindama, undertook a journey on 9th March 2024 to Gunotsoga Primary School to meet a group of eight Wilderness guests known as the Altmans. These guests had expressed their interest in visiting the school and arrived at Gunotsoga by helicopter from Wilderness Vumbura Plains, accompanied by Wesley Hartmann from the Botswana Environmental Office.
Gunotsoga Primary School is located in Gunotsoga village, in the Eastern Panhandle of the Okavango Delta, between Eretsha and Seronga villages. It is part of the Okavango Community Trust and accommodates 266 learners and 15 teachers.
Upon their arrival, the guests were greeted with joyful songs by the children and teachers, and they were honored by the presence of the village chief, Mr. Gakegane Sauquo. Some of the children who had attended the CITW Botswana year-end camp in late 2023 shared their life-changing experiences with the guests. They spoke about how the camp had transformed their perspective and lifestyle in the Delta and mentioned their active participation in Eco-Club meetings every Wednesday after school.
The Head Teacher delivered a compelling presentation outlining the school’s needs, which impressed the guests. They enquired about sustainable projects they could support to make a difference. The guests commended the school’s dedication to providing education to the children and expressed their appreciation for the warm welcome.
After the Chief expressed his gratitude for Wilderness Botswana and CITW’s support, the guests distributed stationery and toys to the teachers and children. They also joined the children in a modern dance performance, showcasing the heartwarming interaction between the guests and the school community. The guests, along with the school management, then took a tour of the school, visiting the cultural house to view artifacts that complement the school curriculum.
Kelly, Gaba, and Sam expressed their gratitude to the Ministry of Basic Education for their ongoing support of school activities. They also extended their appreciation to the group of Wilderness guests and Wesley for their impactful visit and contribution to the school’s needs. CITW acknowledged the management of Gunotsoga Primary School and the village chief for their role in making the event a success.
In conclusion, the visit of the Wilderness guests to Gunotsoga Primary School was a meaningful and enriching experience for all involved. It not only highlighted the importance of education and cultural diversity but also fostered a sense of community and support for the school’s initiatives. The collaboration between CITW, Wilderness Botswana, and the school reflects a shared commitment to empowering and uplifting the next generation of learners in the Okavango Delta.
Read the original article on Gazette News
