The program was officially opened by Professor Nelson Torto in the morning. Prof. Torto gave an inspiring speech and challenged the students to consider the contribution they could make in the area of science and technology. Prof. Torto cited from his own personal experiences and emphasized the need for the advancement of science and technology for Botswana’s economic growth and human welfare.

The first round of quiz was conducted in the morning in the form of a written test. Schools which secured the first six positions advanced into the final round which was an oral quiz and conducted in the afternoon. Maruapula School came first in the final round. Francistown Senior Secondary and Al-Nur schools secured second and third positions respectively.

Schools were also asked to write essays to take part in a debate competition. Seven schools submitted their write ups on insects and insecticides. Mater Spei, from Francistown and McConnel College from Tutume were ranked first and second in the essay evaluations and qualified for the final debate. Mater Spei emerged as the final champions in the debate competition. Francistown senior secondary school secured the third position in the essay write up. Mr. Francis Ogbenna form Mater Spei Senior Secondary School was the best debater. Dr. Mmereki moderated the debate competition.

All the students were taken to see some of the facilities housed in the Science Faculty after the first round of quiz.

The day’s proceedings were concluded with the prize giving session. Professor Coryce Haavik gave away the prizes to the winners. Both Prof. Haavik and Prof. Torto gave concluding speeches and both emphasized the importance of science and technology in our present day modern world.

All the teams participated in the competitions expressed their appreciation towards the manner in which the whole day’s proceedings were conducted.

Please note that the date for the quiz and debate competition was moved September 15 to October 6 due to logistical problems. Oblivious to us, this new date fell into the examination period of some of some of participating students and thus their withdrawal from the competition. This is noted for next year.

We thank our sponsor UNDP for enabling BOTHASTED to conduct this exciting annual event. Special thanks to all that helped in making the competition a success. We recognize the selfless assistance offered by some of our graduate students. We also would like thank Profs. Torto and Haavick and, Drs. Oyetunji, Mmereki, Masesane, and Okatch for their contributions.