Maun North Member of Parliament Dumelang Saleshando has called upon residents to collaborate with Village Development Committees (VDCs) to address the pressing issue of bat infestations in local primary school classrooms.
At a recent kgotla meeting held at Moeti Kgotla, Saleshando who is also Leader of Opposition in parliament emphasised that the odour emitted by bats poses significant health risks to both students and staff, necessitating immediate community intervention.
“This is a health hazard that affects our children and teachers daily and so we cannot afford to wait for government intervention when the community has the capacity to resolve this issue promptly,” he said.
The bat infestations have been a longstanding problem in Maun schools, with reports indicating that bats inhabit school ceilings, leading to pungent and potential health concerns for occupants.
During the meeting, a youth representative Goratagaone Kesekang highlighted the need for a community hall to serve as a hub for various youth activities, including art exhibitions, conferences, and indoor sports.
“Our youth need a space that speaks to their dreams and a community hall can be more than just walls, it can be a gallery for artists, a conference centre for future leaders that keeps our youth active and focused, also with such a facility, we can nurture talent, create jobs, and uplift lives,” she said.
Saleshando acknowledged the proposal, describing it as a sensible idea that could provide opportunities for youth development and employment. He pledged to advocate for the establishment of such a facility with the relevant authorities.
“I believe the idea of a community hall is both sensible and timely, it has the potential to transform lives by giving our youth a platform to grow, express themselves, and build sustainable futures hence i will engage the relevant authorities to ensure this vision is given the attention it deserves,” said Saleshando.
Addressing concerns about accommodation shortages for teachers and healthcare workers, Saleshando informed the community about the government’s commitment to constructing 100,000 housing units over the next three years. He assured residents that he would monitor the progress of this initiative to ensure it addresses the housing needs of public servants in the area.
