Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA) has officially launched its Corporate Strategy 2026–2030 (IGNITE) together with four landmark National Quality Assurance Frameworks, reaffirming its commitment to “Enhancing the Quality, Credibility, and Public confidence in Botswana’s Education and Training System”.
Attended by Government leaders, education and training providers, industry representatives, development partners and other stakeholders, the launch was officiated by the Honourable Minister of Higher Education, Honourable Prince Maele.
The event marked the unveiling of four key policy instruments:
Norms and Standards for the Recognition of Higher Education Institutions and Awarding Bodies
Norms and Standards for the Recognition of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Institutions and Awarding Bodies
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Framework
Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT) Framework
Together, these frameworks establish nationally consistent quality standards, strengthen institutional governance and accountability, recognise knowledge and skills acquired through work and life experience, and enable learners to accumulate and transfer credits across recognised programmes and institutions. They also support lifelong learning, learner mobility and a qualifications system that responds to national priorities and international best practice.
In his keynote address, Honourable Maele described the event as the launch of possibilities. He noted that the Strategy and Frameworks will contribute to building an inclusive, responsive and globally competitive education and training system by expanding lifelong learning opportunities, strengthening skills recognition and ensuring that no citizen is left behind.
Welcoming guests to the event, BQA Board Chairperson Mr Gabaake Gabaake highlighted the extensive stakeholder engagement that informed the development of the Strategy and Frameworks. He went further to say that the successful implementation of the strategy and these frameworks will require continued collaboration among Government, regulators, ETP’s, industry and other stakeholders.
Presenting the IGNITE Strategy, Board Strategy Committee Chairperson Ms Mercy Conlon-Phuthego outlined BQA's vision of becoming a catalyst for the development of globally competitive and innovative human capital. She explained that IGNITE as the abbreviation of Innovate, Guide, Nurture, Inspire, Transform and Excel, will guide the Authority over the next five years through organisational excellence, digital transformation, stronger stakeholder collaboration and enhanced quality assurance.
Providing an overview of the newly launched Norms and Standards, Board Quality Assurance Frameworks Management Committee Chairperson Professor Richie Moalosi emphasised that quality assurance is more than a regulatory function. He noted that the Frameworks will strengthen institutional quality, improve the credibility of qualifications and enhance public confidence in Botswana's education and training system.
Acting Chief Executive Officer Mr Ofentse Disang presented the Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Accumulation and Transfer Frameworks, describing them as critical enablers of a seamless education and training system. He also expressed appreciation to the Honourable Minister, the BQA Board, Management and Staff for their collective efforts in advancing Botswana's education and training sector.
The launch of the IGNITE Strategy and the National Quality Assurance Frameworks marks the beginning of a new chapter for quality assurance in Botswana. Through collaboration and shared commitment, BQA will continue working with stakeholders to implement these strategic initiatives in support of sustainable national development and a future-ready education and training system.