GIS - Growing their own Timber

May 21, 2021

Boitumelo Ketwesepe (Alumnus) returns to inspire and encourage students to be the best they can be in and out of the classroom, at her former school, GIS!

Alumnus : Boitumelo Ketwesepe
Graduated from GIS : 2012

Boitumelo Ketwesepe believes that “teachers make a lasting impression on the lives of their students, and great teachers inspire students to develop the skills they need to compete in a challenging global market.”

Certainly, she feels that her teachers at Gaborone International School (GIS) – where she graduated in 2012 – played an important role in her own life. “I’d always remember GIS with fondness. I received a great education in the most nurturing environment. My school days were spent amongst happy students and caring staff.”

Boitumelo says that she has many happy memories of her time at GIS. It was during her school days that her love of Business Studies and Economics was cultivated: she admits that these subjects were always her favourite. 

After school, she enrolled at the University of Botswana to study a Bachelor Degree in Education, majoring in Business and Economics. When she graduated, she had little way of knowing that her ties with the school would remain extremely strong, but she hoped to be back as a teacher. Today she is once again roaming the hallways and sharing teaching methodologies with one of her favourite teachers Ms Lubeka. “Being back at GIS is the same, but not the same. Although the buildings haven’t changed that much the people and teaching methods has, and that is exciting.” 

Thinking back on her studies, Boitumelo says that she acquired a number of attributes that have served her well in the classroom, among them tolerance, patience and an appreciation of diversity and respect for those around her. Boitumelo believes that the biggest challenge children face today is bullying and that there should be no room in the classroom or life for such bad behaviour. 

A positive about Boitumelo’s chosen field is that it has enormous scope for growth. “I enjoy working with the students and sharing their excitement about their academics.” Boitumelo’s approach to teaching is learner centred. “This gives learners a choice and autonomy to take control of their own learning with the teacher of course still being the main facilitator of the process.”

Asked if she would choose the same career again, were she to have the choice, her answer is unequivocal: “Definitely!”

Fun Questions to get to know Miss Boitumelo Ketwesepe
  • Coffee or tea:  Tea
  • Currently reading for enjoyment: The Power of positive thinking by Dr Norman Vincent Peale
  • 5 adjectives to describe me: Loving, ambitious, versatile, too modest sometimes�55357;�56847;, hardworking 
  • Playing on playlist now: God is not done with you by Tauren Wells 
  • My sweet tooth craves: Caramel cake �55356;�57200; 
  • Salty snack my students can try bribe me with any day: Peanuts and raisins 
  • Hobbies: I love cycling  
  • Fondest Memory at GIS: Prize giving day, this day I received some subject certificates and also got appointed as the school Head Girl. My mother was so proud that she lifted me from the stage to my chair while ululating the entire way�55357;�56837;�55358;�56688;


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Knowledge and Understanding GIS students engage with world affairs, international systems and environmental challenges. From global economies to climate justice, learners build informed opinions and make ethical decisions in a global context. 2. Skills Development Beyond textbooks, learners cultivate critical thinking, intercultural communication, digital literacy, and collaboration. These skills are nurtured through inquiry-based learning and real-world problem-solving. Discover more on life skills that every child should know. 3. Values and Attitudes Empathy, respect, and ethical responsibility are woven throughout the school culture. From community projects to classroom discussions, GIS instils values that reflect our commitment to nurturing thoughtful global participants. How GIS Integrates This Into The Curriculum Incorporating Global Themes Grounded in the rigor of the Cambridge International Curriculum , our global citizenship approach prepares students to meet international standards while developing broader worldviews. At GIS, global citizenship isn't a subject—it's a thread running through every lesson. A science class might analyse the impact of water scarcity, while literature explores voices from across continents. This interdisciplinary approach fosters global perspectives across all stages of learning. Supportive School Environment With a full-time psychologist and pastoral team, GIS prioritises emotional well-being. While 67% parent satisfaction reflects strong progress, we continue to deepen our engagement in this area. Whether it's Setswana Cultural Day or heritage exhibitions, GIS is intentional about celebrating local traditions — a fact affirmed by 84% of parents. Experiential Learning and Real-World Engagement Service-learning projects allow students to actively address real-world issues, whether through sustainability initiatives or local outreach. These experiences ground abstract concepts in real impact. GIS facilities scored 85%, yet we're actively growing our coaching programme, with 67% satisfaction signalling room to sharpen this offering — part of our ongoing commitment to holistic development. Exchange & Virtual Connections GIS learners benefit from international partnerships and virtual exchanges. These opportunities broaden cultural understanding and build authentic global friendships. With a 72% satisfaction rate in multicultural experiences, GIS learners benefit from a richly diverse environment that encourages inclusion across forms and cultures. Technology as a Bridge, Not a Barrier From virtual classrooms to curated platforms like Google Earth or international news media, technology at GIS enhances global connectivity and digital citizenship. To see how we introduce this even in our early years, view our preschool digital literacy approach at Teachers as Global Mentors With 82% of parents affirming that GIS teachers show genuine care and 80% noting that teachers understand learner needs, our educators are more than instructors — they are nurturers of potential. Ongoing professional development ensures they’re ready to navigate complex global themes. Why Choose GIS? GIS offers a seamless educational journey from Pre-School to Form 4 on a single state-of-the-art campus — a unique offering that cultivates continuity, belonging, and long-term development. 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