U.S. Embassy Independence Day Essay Contest Highlights the Important Role of Women in Politics

Ms. Thobo GabaikheAs part of the U.S. Embassy in Botswana’s Independence Day programming, the Public Affairs Section held an essay contest for local high school students. The Independence Day Essay Contest focused on the theme: Celebrating the Achievements of Women in Politics; and students were asked to write about the role Batswana women play in politics. The Embassy received over 50 essay submissions from local high schools and the EducationUSA Scholars Program. The winner, Ms. Thobo Gabaikhe, is a student at St. Joseph’s College. Thobo is also currently enrolled in The U.S. Embassy EducationUSA Scholars Program and is applying to U.S. colleges and universities to study financial management and economics. As the contest winner, Thobo was interviewed by on a local radio station and had the opportunity to read her essay for listeners. In addition, Thobo will have the opportunity to meet with the U.S. Ambassador and share her perspective on the important role of Batswana women in politics.

Read the full essay here (PDF 70 KB)