A robotics presentation and stakeholder engagement event was held at the U.S. Embassy Recreation Center in Gaborone on July 15, 2025. The event brought together partners from Botswana and the United States to promote robotics and coding education among youth.
The gathering was made possible through collaboration between Captain Kgomotso Phatsima and the Dare to Dream team, as well as Heidi Lovett and the Swerve Robotics team from the United States. The event recognized educators, civil society leaders, government officials, private sector partners, and diplomats for their contributions to shaping Botswana’s future.
Special acknowledgment was given to Mr. Tebogo Matebesi, Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports and Arts, who attended on behalf of the Government of Botswana.
The focus of the event was on preparing Botswana’s young people for a digital world by encouraging skills in robotics and coding. Students participated in demonstrations during the program.
NASA Astronaut Dr. Mae Jemison’s message to young people was shared: “Don’t let anyone rob you of your imagination, your creativity, or your curiosity. It’s your place in the world; it’s your life. Go on and do all you can with it and make it the life you want to live.”
The remarks highlighted recent milestones such as the launch of BOTSAT-1 — Botswana’s first satellite — which took place two months ago with assistance from U.S. private sector partners. This achievement underscored what can be accomplished when government, business, and civil society collaborate.
It was noted that Captain Phatsima is an alumna of the International Visitor Leadership Program supported by the U.S. Embassy.
“Robotics and coding are more than just technical skills,” attendees were told during remarks at the event. “They are languages of opportunity, connecting young people to global markets, fostering innovation, and creating jobs that will drive Botswana’s growth for years to come.”
The United States reaffirmed its commitment to working with local partners to help Botswana’s youth prepare for future opportunities.
Thanking all involved parties for their vision and ongoing efforts, organizers emphasized their pride in supporting youth innovation through partnerships that connect expertise from both countries.