Boitekanelo College has received high praise for its contributions to Botswana’s health sector, with the government acknowledging its pivotal role in developing local talent and strengthening the country’s healthcare workforce.

Speaking at a health sector budget review session organised by Boitekanelo College last week, Assistant Minister of Health Lawrence Ookeditse commended the institution for its support of the health sector and its efforts in training healthcare professionals.

“I wish to commend Boitekanelo College for your significant contribution to the country’s health sector. You have been trailblazers in developing talent and finding ways to sustain your initiatives independently,” he said.

Boitekanelo College, a health sciences institution established in 2007, has long been a key supplier of skilled graduates to both the government and private sector since its inception. Over the years, the college has cemented its reputation as the leader institution, driving skills development in the health sector, ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified practitioners who enhance service delivery across the country.

Highlighting the college’s employment strategy, minister Ookeditse applauded Boitekanelo for its commitment to hiring local professionals. “You currently employ 210 people, 90 percent of whom are Batswana. This aligns perfectly with our administration’s job creation agenda, and I implore you to double this figure within the next year to support our goal of creating 500,000 jobs in the next five years. The private sector must drive these numbers, and we will certainly facilitate that growth,” he emphasized.

Honorable Ookeditse reiterated the government’s commitment to building an inclusive and effective health system for all Batswana, stressing that the administration is open to input on achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). He further revealed that the Ministry of Health plans to introduce a National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme, which aims to provide quality healthcare services to all citizens, regardless of their location or financial status.

“The government regards health not just as a public good but as a fundamental human right,” minister Ookeditse affirmed, emphasizing the administration’s dedication to ensuring accessible and high-quality healthcare for all.