Tsodilo Junior Secondary School (JSS) yesterday held its annual Prize Giving Ceremony, recognising the outstanding achievements of over 40 students in categories ranging from academic excellence to participation in the STEM-oriented Innovation Kgotla Club.
The event brought together students, parents, and the local community to honor the brightest minds of the school.
Guest speaker Onneile Thamuku, the Executive Director at Youth Enrichment Services (YES) Botswana, inspired the attendees with an empowering message.
“While this ceremony is held annually, every year we gather to honour the best performers across a range of subjects. The goal is to celebrate excellence, whether in academics or other fields. I see immense potential in each and every student, and I believe anyone here could one day walk this podium and receive prizes. But it’s not about the awards—it’s about inspiring a generation of the ‘dot-com age’ who can revolutionize our world and explore fields that benefit all of humanity,” he said.
Sponsored by Chobe Holdings and Abaricom, along with other contributors like the Class of 94 amongst a few mentioned, the ceremony recognized top performers from Forms 1 to 3, including a Special Education category. The students, dressed in their best, walked the red carpet to receive awards in 14 subjects such as English, Science, Social Studies, and Mathematics amongst a few mentions.
Form 1 student Katlo Kgosietsile was the first to be awarded with the best performance in Mathematics, receiving a home appliance machine as a prize. In Form 2, Kempho Mareko took home the top prize in Mathematics and excelled in three other subjects, setting a high bar for future achievements. Form 3’s Koketso Dimbo shone brightly, winning prizes in Mathematics and English, while Maatla Dintle earned recognition in Religious Education. In the Special Education category, Tetano Tafila was awarded the top prize among Form 3 students.
The pinnacle of the awards went to the top-performing students. Carol Marai of Form 1 received a tablet worth P1,500. In Form 2, Kempho Mareko also walked away with a tablet, while Form 3 standout Koketso Dimbo claimed the top spot, winning a tablet, a laptop from Abaricom, and a P1,500 cash prize.
The day was not solely focused on academics; students and parents enjoyed vibrant entertainment as well. A standout moment was the ballroom performance by Jenifer Kgori and Lone Mothei, fresh off their Gold win at the 10th annual Independence Cup in Gaborone. The duo captivated the audience with their dynamic salsa routines, bringing energy and excitement to the event. As their performance concluded, the crowd was left eagerly wanting more.
Additionally, members of the Innovation Kgotla Club were awarded with certificates, and prominent students like Clever Obonye and Letty Rataola received medals for their contributions to the Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM-focused club, which has openly innovated the practical aspects of Science fields allowing curious minds to experiment with practical projects involving robotics and programming.
“I believe that anyone with a mind has the potential to become anything they aspire to be. When directed with purpose, the mind can accomplish extraordinary things. It is our greatest gift—the source of all innovation and creativity. Each of us holds that power. So, I urge you all to aim high and never doubt your abilities,” Thamuku concluded.
The Prize Giving ceremony not only honored academic achievement but also inspired students to reach for greater heights in their educational journeys and beyond.
