The event, graced by Bakwena Kgosi, Kgari Sechele III, teachers and union leadership was held under the theme, ‘Ngwao boswa: Revamping teachers’ welfare and integrity’, sparking a militant force for the revival of teachers’ welfare and integrity.
Attendees even unleashed a toe-tapping rendition of Dr Vom’s ‘Thobane’. There was a feast of traditional dishes such as dikgobe, seswaa and Tswana chicken as teachers bonded, ready to take on the challenges ahead. Despite the camp chair setup, the air crackled with a union spirit that echoed through music and impassioned speeches. Amidst the cultural celebration, regional chairperson, Keikantswe Keikantswe, there were financial challenges that cast doubt on the event’s annual recurrence.
He further revealed that their decision to invite Kgosi Kgari III was strategic. He said this was a rallying cry against the government’s trampling of teachers’ rights. “They don’t recognise us. The treatment from regional offices and headmasters is appalling,” he declared.
For his part, Kgosi Kgari III was appreciative of the event but lamented the erosion of local culture due to foreign influences. “Our kids don’t play like we used to. This is how we get all the foreign influence,” he noted, urging teachers to nurture well-rounded students for a secure future. BOSETU vice president, Mogomotsi Motshegwa urged teachers to fight for what is rightfully teachers. “The elections are around the corner and politicians are seeking re-election,” he added. The event was not an all-talk celebration as the attendants were lectured on financial intelligence plus enticing offerings like holiday excursions and fun days.
