BTU INDUCTS TEACHERS ON

FINANCIAL PLANNING AND DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES IN THE WORKPLACE

Botswana Teachers Union (BTU) had, on the 27th of April 2023, gathered newly employed teachers from Gaborone schools to equip them with financial planning skills and industrial relations matters. About 200 teachers were in attendance at Tlotlo Conference Centre in Gaborone.

This aligns with the Union’s objectives, key among them being objective number 6, which speaks to providing members with advice and objective number 11 on promoting and maintaining high teaching standards.

Since the beginning of this year, 2023, the Union has conducted ten (10) inductions to new teachers on the same subjects countrywide.

In his address to the newly employed teachers, Union President Comrade Gotlamang Oitsile said that the Union occasionally develops different programmes to aid members in making informed decisions about their lives, most importantly, financially.

He said the Union wants a happy workforce that is not bothered by socioeconomic challenges. Though the financial wellness programme came a bit late, Comrade Oitsile is optimistic that it will assist many in the long run.

Presenting on governing statutes and work ethics, BTU Industrial Relations Officer for Maun Regional Office, Mr Michael Ramatlapeng, pleaded with teachers not to find themselves on the wrong side of the law during their service. He said most teachers are unfamiliar with different governing statutes, finding themselves on the wrong side of the law.

Mr Ramatlapeng underscored that absconding and absenteeism from work are the most prevalent issues they deal with daily. He read them some sections on the Public Service Act, which they should be aware of. “If you have any matter that is labour related, call our offices and register such,” advised Mr Ramatlapeng adding that teachers should not sit on matters for a long time without seeking assistance.

Chief Education Officer in the Ministry of Education and Skills Development (MESD),

Mr Kwante Kwante, spoke at length on the importance of good work ethics, which he said contribute to having a good working relationship between the employees and employers. He commended BTU for the induction, saying it is good that they are building a well-rounded teacher.

Also, IGNYTE Wealth Managing Director, Mr Seatla Ratshosa, took them through various processes they can follow to make good use of their money and other investment opportunities. He said most of the mistakes are made when one takes out a loan without having planned what they will use it for first.