2 hours agoNo Response from BEC

Teachers and invigilators have formally petitioned the Botswana Examinations Council (BEC) over unpaid work performed in 2025, raising renewed concerns about accountability within the country’s examination system. The petition was officially received by BEC leadership, with Chief Executive Officer Moreetsi Thobega pledging that a formal response will be issued by Wednesday of next week. The dispute centers on delayed payments for essential national examination duties.

In their submission, the educators contend that they have not been compensated for marking and invigilation related to the Botswana General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE), Junior Certificate Examinations (JCE), and Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE). They say the nonpayment has placed significant financial strain on teachers who rely on these assignments as supplementary income. In a formal letter dated April 17, 2026, BEC acknowledged receipt of the petition and scheduled a handover meeting at its headquarters in Gaborone.

Due to security protocols, the council limited representation to three members. In an interview with the Weekend Post, Petition Assistant Coordinator Basitetswe Hosea warned that failure to address the issue could lead to escalation. “Only five days to respond to our demands.

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The issue is that if our demands are not met, we will reconvene and map the way forward. If it is a matter that should have to go to the courts, we will seek guidance and direction from our unions because we are part and parcel of the unions. Although we came as individual markers and examiners, we are subscribing and bona fide members of individual unions and they have the responsibility to take care of our welfare wherever we are,” he said.

This dispute reveals structural weaknesses in how BEC manages contractual obligations with temporary education workers, particularly concerning payment timelines and communication. While such grievances are not new, the coordinated petition and potential union-backed legal action mark a shift from isolated complaints to organized resistance. The key difference lies in the educators’ strategic use of union affiliation while presenting as independent actors to broaden both legal and public pressure.

If left unresolved, the issue could undermine confidence in Botswana’s examination system, especially ahead of upcoming exam cycles where teacher participation is crucial. BEC’s response will be critical not only in settling outstanding payments but also in restoring institutional credibility.

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