Wilderness Botswana recently handed over a newly constructed block of classrooms and secure perimeter fencing to ensure security and minimise human-wildlife conflict, complete with solar lighting, for Eretsha Primary School valued at approximately P2 million.
Speaking at the handover, Caretaker Managing Director of Okavango Wilderness Safaris Joe Matome said that the handover was not merely a celebration of the completion of a project, but also a celebration of a promise fulfilled, a future imagined, and a community strengthened. He added that the donation is not just a physical structure but a beacon of possibilities.
Matome further highlighted that the objective of their goal is to give children in Eretsha a safe and empowering environment to learn.
“It is a space where dreams will be born, confidence will be nurtured, and young minds will take their first steps toward becoming the leaders, scientists, rangers, entrepreneurs, and change-makers of tomorrow,” Matome added.
He said the project should be a reminder that even in the most remote comers of the country, excellence and opportunity can and must thrive. He went to encourage the students at the school,
“May you echo with laughter, learning, and ambition. May you be reminded each day that your community believes in you, and that your dreams are valid, powerful, and needed.” he said
Matome further gave a reminder to the teachers saying that they are true heroes for planting the seed of growth every day in students.
Meanwhile the minister of Child Welfare and Basic Education, Honourable Nono Kgafela-Mokoka also highlighted that the donation was not just a handing over of classrooms, but the handing over of hope, opportunity, and a brighter future for the community of Eretsha especially the amazing children of Eretsha Primary School.
She further noted that the goverment cherishes the ideals of Public Private Partnership in the development of the country more so that government resources have been depleted to a very pathetic state which is difficult to appreciate and fathom. She therefore expressed gratitude to Wilderness Safaris for having found it fit to contribute immensely to making a difference in the lives of the children by donating a classroom block.
“The classrooms are more than just buildings. They stand as a symbol of long-standing partnership, mutual respect, and a shared belief in the power of education,” the Minister said.
She said Wilderness, as a business can be described as a beacon in global ecotourism, and yet despite its international reach, it remains grounded in its roots.
This project she said, and others like it prove that true corporate leadership includes giving back to the communities that form the heart of the wilderness experience.
