29/09/2026
INDEPENDENCE DAY MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
BOTSWANA COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (BCET)
Fellow Staff, Students, Stakeholders and the entire BCET Community,
As we commemorate the 60th Anniversary of Botswana’s Independence, I extend my warmest greetings and best wishes to all members of the BCET family and the nation at large.
This historic milestone provides us with an opportunity to reflect on our country's remarkable journey of growth, resilience, peace, unity, and development. Since attaining independence in 1966, Botswana has transformed itself into a respected and stable nation, built upon the values of democracy, good governance, accountability, and the collective efforts of its people.
As a premier Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution, BCET remains committed to supporting Botswana’s development agenda through the provision of quality engineering and technology education and training. We recognise that the future prosperity of our nation depends on a skilled, innovative, and productive workforce capable of driving industrialisation, economic diversification, and sustainable development.
This Independence Day, I encourage all staff and students to renew their commitment to excellence, professionalism, innovation, integrity, and patriotism. Let us continue to work together to strengthen BCET as a Centre of Excellence in Engineering and Technology, producing graduates who will contribute meaningfully to the transformation of our economy and the improvement of our communities.
As we celebrate six decades of independence, let us honour the vision and sacrifices of our founding leaders and all those who have contributed to nation-building. Let us also embrace our responsibility to shape the future by empowering the next generation with the knowledge, skills, and values required to advance Botswana to even greater heights.
May we also pause to remember members of our BCET family who have experienced the pain of losing their loved ones. Some of the departed have already been laid to rest, while others are yet to be accorded their final farewell. During these difficult moments, we extend our deepest condolences, prayers and unwavering support to our staff, students and their respective families.
Loss reminds us that life is precious, that time is fleeting, and that our greatest strength lies not in our individual achievements but in our ability to care for one another. As a college community, we must continue to uphold the values of compassion, empathy and unity. Let us stand with those who mourn, comfort those who are hurting, and reassure them that they do not walk this journey alone.
The Holy Bible reminds us in 2 Corinthians 1:3 – 4 that "the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation," is always near to the broken-hearted. It is our prayer that the God of Peace will surround every bereaved family with His love, strengthen them during moments of weakness, and grant them the comfort that only He can provide.
As we mark sixty years of Botswana's independence, let this celebration also become a moment of renewal for BCET. Let it be a time to put aside divisions, misunderstandings and past disappointments, and embrace a shared vision for the future. Let us renew our commitment to excellence, accountability, teamwork, innovation and service. Let us choose hope over doubt, solutions over complaints, and progress over stagnation.
I firmly believe that the best days of BCET are still ahead of us. I see a college that is united in purpose, respected for excellence, recognised as a Centre of Excellence in Engineering and Technology, and trusted to produce graduates who will transform industries, communities and lives. The opportunities before us are greater than the challenges behind us.
The Scripture declares in the book of Isaiah 43:19 "Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it?" I believe that God is preparing a new chapter for BCET, a chapter of growth, restoration, achievement and impact. But this future will not be built by a few individuals; it will be built by all of us working together with a spirit of unity, dedication and purpose.
Therefore, as we celebrate Botswana's independence, let us also declare a new beginning for BCET. Let us move forward together, inspired by our past, committed to our present responsibilities, and confident in the future that lies before us.
May God bless you, may God bless BCET, and may God continue to bless the Republic of Botswana.
Finally, on behalf of the College Management and indeed on my own behalf, I wish you, your families, and the entire nation a joyous, peaceful, and memorable Independence Day celebration.
P**a!
Happy 60th Independence Anniversary, Botswana.
Mr. Edwin M. Seitshiro
Principal
Botswana College of Engineering and Technology (BCET)
