Stepping Stones International (SSI) supported by the Government of Botswana and The European Union are to launch The Non-State Actors (NSA) Programme in collaboration with stakeholders to improve the lives of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) ages 12+ in three areas of Botswana. The project titled “Weaving a web” aims at enhancing services, support and skills for OVC youth from schools in Bobonong and Tutume sub-districts as well as OVC at Moeding College in Otse.
The NSA Programme will focus on three specific objectives:
- Empower OVC ages 12+ to become actively engaged in driving their own life paths with support from the family:
- Enhance economic stability by instilling financial, english, and computer literacy skills among OVC in Tutume, Bobonong, and Otse, in particular Moeding College.
- Strengthen existing social service systems that support and protect OVC in Tutume and Bobonong sub-districts and at Moeding College in Otse.
Part of The NSA Programme involves using creative ways to reach youth in mediums that resonate with them. Twenty seven social workers, guidance and counseling teachers from the Tutume and Bobonong area gathered for a one week training on the 26-30th Oct 2015 in Bobonong.
Training on the use of art and drama as a means of therapy.
The goal of the workshop was to learn how to safely use Art and Drama when counseling vulnerable children and to develop child-friendly counseling techniques. Two Art-Psychotherapists Ms. Rebecca Lunn and Ms. Emma Mills from Circle International Art and Drama Therapy in UK facilitated the training.
SSI representatives and coordinators Mmaabo Setshwaelo (left) and Metsi Ramotsisi (right).
On the last day of training, there was a presentation and exhibition of the art works and other performances. Central Region Director from The Ministry of Education Mr. K M. Koko attended the presentation. We were also honored to have, Mr. B Bajiti (Matshekge SSS School Head), Mma.G. Mashaba (Bobonong JSS School Head), Mma Mazebedi (Bobirwa JSS), Mr. Pusoetsile (Head of Department Mosetlhe JSS). Mr. Mbakile (Head of Social Welfare Office S& CD Bobonong) and Mma M.K Ntirang (Principal Social Work Officer II from S&CD Tutume) also attend the exhibition.
This workshop was a fantastic occasion and very informative for all the parties who attended. The attendees are now in a better position to reach their youth in a powerful medium in a safe way.
We also thank FACET for their continued support. FACET is a true champion for our youth and is truly there For Africa’s Children Every Time.