Mookane leaders lament youth delinquency

MOOKANE: Located approximately 150 km northeast of the capital city Gaborone, Mookane is a village that, according to its traditional leaders, is in urgent need of interventions to improve the quality of life for its youth.

The Monitor spoke to Kgosi Silas Keitumetse and Kgosi Gaselemogwe Molefi in the village, who expressed concern about the delinquency amongst school-going children and youth, which contributes to poor academic performance.

Keitumetse highlighted the challenges faced by Mookane Junior Secondary School, stating that besides dilapidated buildings and lack of resources, there is also a problem with student delinquency. “This school is causing us a headache due to the high levels of delinquency, fights involving deadly weapons, and other inappropriate behaviour. “Two years ago, a student was killed here, and these issues also extend into the wider society. People commit crime after drinking alcohol. We are pleading for help to address these problems,” he said.

Keitumetse called on the government to reintroduce corporal punishment, believing it would help instil discipline amongst children. He also advocated for the establishment of a comprehensive disciplinary department in schools, made up of teachers, parents, pastors, counsellors, police, and others, to address disciplinary issues.

“Such a department should be present in all schools across the country. Lack of discipline is costing the country dearly,” he added.

Kgosi Molefi on the other hand expressed concern about the recent Junior Certificate Examination (JCE) results, revealing that fewer than 100 out of 245 Form 3 leavers will not progress to senior school.

“This is a significant problem, and we are worried about their future. Perhaps we need a vocational school closer to us, as it is difficult for them to secure places in Mahalapye and Palapye. Additionally, this large number of school leavers may resort to negative activities within the community,” Molefi explained.

The leaders also raised concerns about the inadequate water supply in the village.

“Our boreholes have been out of operation for some time, and currently, water is being supplied through bowsers into the pipelines to reach homes. However, this is insufficient and does not cover all areas of the village. Moreover, the water supply through bowsers is unreliable,” Molefi noted.