Standard Chartered Bank Launches Botswana Education Trust to Boost Early Childhood Education

By Lorraine

In a significant move to enhance its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, Standard Chartered Bank has unveiled the Standard Chartered Bank Botswana Education Trust (SCB BET). This foundation is dedicated to fostering charitable and educational initiatives, with a primary focus on early childhood education. By targeting early childhood education, the Trust aims to significantly impact Botswana’s educational landscape, understanding the crucial role early learning plays in shaping future success.

The SCB BET embodies the Bank’s commitment to its “Here for Good” promise, recognising education as a cornerstone for societal advancement. The launch event, held at Mojadife Primary School in collaboration with the Mogobane community, featured remarks from Standard Chartered Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mpho Masupe. He explained the Trust’s focus on early childhood development, citing a study that highlighted major funding and resource gaps in early childhood public education, especially in rural areas. These deficiencies have adversely affected long-term enrollment and success rates at higher educational levels.

“The Bank’s study revealed critical areas where we can truly make an impact, particularly in early childhood public education. We identified a significant need to support capacity building and further develop professionals and teachers in the pre-school system,” said Mr. Masupe. “Recognizing this gap, the Standard Chartered Botswana Education Trust is committed to investing in our youngest learners’ development.”

At the launch, the Bank introduced three Trustees appointed to guide the Trust’s vision. The Board

Dr. Biorn outlined the Trust’s strategy, emphasizing its four key themes that support children from birth to adulthood.

Chairperson, Dr. Didimalang Biorn, brings 25 years of experience as an educator and clinical psychologist specializing in trauma and disaster psychology. Joining her are Ms. Mpho Rabasha, a pediatric occupational therapist with over 15 years of experience in children’s health and education, and Ms. Onica Lekuntwane, a versatile creative passionate about sustainable social development through arts, crafts, and design.

“As stewards of this Trust, we envision making a real, tangible impact on young children’s lives in Botswana. Our strategy encompasses milestones in a child’s life journey, from birth through to adulthood.

O ka gola, tshameka, bala, atlega le Standard Chartered,” she stated.

The SCB BET will work in collaboration with local stakeholders, educational institutions, and community organizations to implement impactful initiatives aligned with its mission. Standard Chartered Bank is calling on partners, stakeholders, and the public to support the Botswana Education Trust and help advance education in Botswana.

Through this initiative, Standard Chartered Bank aims to create a platform for positive change, fostering an environment where every child has the opportunity to realize their potential, underscoring the Bank’s belief that education is a powerful catalyst for individual and societal growth.