Speaker of the National Assembly of Botswana, Dr Margaret Nasha has urged Limkokwing University graduates to prove to the industry that they have what it takes to make a positive change in the country’s economy.
She was speaking at the University’s 2014 graduation ceremony held on the 3rd April 2014. Dr Nasha reminded the graduates that they were among the world’s best, and advised them not to settle for less. She told the students that ‘the best gems the country possess are not diamonds, gold, or cattle, but skilled, creative and innovative young people.’
“If we believe in ourselves, we can do miracles for ourselves and our beloved country.”
Dr Nasha, who is the first ever female Speaker of the Botswana National Assembly, urged the students to be confident in themselves and the skills they have acquired through their years of study in Limkokwing University. She reminded them that the country was depending on them to take it to a developed nation status.
“If we believe in ourselves, we can do miracles for ourselves and our beloved country,” she said.
A total of 1931 students from Botswana, Zambia, India, Malawi and Lesotho graduated from the Faculties of Business Globalisation and Tourism Hospitality, Information Technology, Design and Innovation, Communication Media and Broadcasting, Architecture and Interior Design, Creative Multimedia, and Sound and Music. Seven of the graduates are from the Special Needs Unit; three visually impaired and four physically disabled.
She expressed her confidence in the education and life skills the University has instilled on the youth, reminding the students that they are part of an international brand which is well known for its positive outlook, creativity, innovation, and practical approach to education.
“I am convinced that coming out of Limkokwing University, you are a brand of your own, you must remember to live the brand.”
Dr Nasha expressed gratitude to the University’s Founder, Tan Sri Limkokwing, for setting up “this magnificent institution in Botswana and contributing to educating Botswana’s next generation of creative and innovative leaders.”
She also extolled the University on their bold step of establishing a special education unit. The University’s Special Education Unit department currently has 169 students, with graduates doing well in the industry.
She said the University was committed to corporate social responsibility, and was sensitive to the needs of the country, referring to the 11 scholarships the University has offered the government of Botswana for special needs students.
“I can only hope that other organisations and tertiary institutions will emulate the good example set by Limkokwing University,” she said.
She concluded her address by urging students to be bold in their endeavours, and to actively be involved in entrepreneurship, so as to alleviate the overwhelming unemployment rate the country is currently facing.
