IDM–Botswana: Shaping the Region’s Next Generation of Transformational Leaders

Minister Mohwasa Officiates at the 19th IDM Joint Graduation Ceremony in Lesotho.
The Institute of Development Management (IDM) marked yet another historic milestone last week as the Minister for State President, Hon. Moeti C. Mohwasa, officially presided over the 19th Joint Graduation Ceremony held at the iconic ThabaBosiu Cultural Village in Maseru, Lesotho.

Under the inspiring theme “From Shared Roots to Boundless Greatness,” the ceremony brought together 1,050 graduates from Botswana, Lesotho, and Eswatini, reaffirming IDM's longstanding mandate of nurturing leaders for a globally competitive and regionally integrated Africa.
Braving the stormy weather that swept across the Mountain Kingdom, families, dignitaries, employers, and supporters filled the arena, a powerful testament to the pride and significance of this landmark achievement.
Minister Mohwasa: “IDM is a Living Symbol of Regional Cooperation”
In his congratulatory message to the graduates, Minister Mohwasa described the ceremony as a reflection of what can be achieved when nations share a common developmental vision. He lauded IDM for embodying the spirit of regional unity:
“IDM stands as a living symbol of regional cooperation, an institution that has, for many decades, nurtured leaders who continue to shape our public sectors, private industries, and civic spaces.”
The Minister emphasised that IDM's tri-country model is not just historic; it is a beacon of what African cooperation can look like when education, development, and leadership converge.
A Call to Graduates: Lead With Courage, Integrity, and Innovation
Hon. Mohwasa reserved heartfelt words for the Class of 2025, acknowledging their sacrifice and resilience.
He reminded graduates that the journey ahead demands innovative thinkers, ethical leaders, and solution-driven professionals who can address the contemporary challenges facing the region; from digital transformation and climate resilience to public-sector modernization and youth empowerment.
“Let this not be the end; it is only the beginning,” he said.
“Your countries need fresh minds and bold spirits like yours.”
He urged graduands to use their IDM-gained knowledge to uplift their communities, strengthen institutions, and pave the way for future generations.
Commendation for IDM: “A Hub for Excellence”
Hon. Mohwasa applauded IDM leadership and staff for their unwavering commitment to quality education across all three campuses.
“IDM continues to be a hub for excellence in public administration, management, and development studies, producing graduates who are academically capable, ethically grounded, and regionally conscious.”
He further noted that IDM’s culture of collaboration and innovation is exactly what the region needs as it navigates a rapidly changing global landscape.
Spotlight on Academic Excellence
The ceremony also celebrated exceptional student achievements.
Cecilia Boikaego Baratang emerged as the overall best student in the CIPS professional qualification, outperforming candidates from all three countries.
Delivering the Valedictorian speech, Refilwe Khombane, a Bachelor of Public Finance and Accounting graduate from IDM–Botswana, inspired her peers to embrace courage and purpose:
“The world doesn’t need us to be perfect , it needs us to be real, to care deeply, and to lead with both heart and mind.”
A Future Built on Shared Strength
As Minister Mohwasa concluded, the spirit of regional collaboration must continue to thrive:
“The graduates before us represent the limitless potential of our nations. Let us continue deepening partnerships in education, innovation, and development so that together we may achieve greatness that transcends our borders.”
The 19th Joint Graduation not only celebrated academic achievement, it reaffirmed IDM’s mission: to mould leaders who will transform Botswana, shape the SADC region, and propel Africa toward boundless greatness.
IDM–Botswana: Positioned for National and Regional Impact
With campuses in Gaborone and Francistown, IDM–Botswana continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the human capital landscape of the country.
The institution offers a rich portfolio of programmes across three faculties:

• Human Resource and Organisational Development
• Business Information and Resource Management
• Public Health

In addition, IDM’s Centre for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) remains a continental leader in workforce training, responsive upskilling, and leadership development, supporting governments, parastatals, and private industry for over five decades.