12th November 2024
Own Correspondent
Institute for Labour and Employment Studies (ILES) which was established to address the lack of a rudimentary understanding of basic laws and procedures regulating the workplace held its first-ever graduation ceremony recently.
The college is the outcome of a BOPEU congress resolution of 2012 to establish a labour collage which became ILES. It was only in 2017 that ILES was registered and accredited by the Botswana Qualification Authority (BQA) as an Education and Training Provider (ETP).
“Institute for Labour and Employment Studies(ILES) has set itself apart as an institute that seeks to build cohesion among the social partners that is Government, Business and trade unions. We reached out to the International labour Organisation (ILO) and to date we are a service provider to the ILO through ILO Pretoria Office,” said Shandukani Hlabano, Chief Executive Officer of ILES.
He said, “The deliberate decision to work closely with the ILO is to ensure that we adopt international best practices in the labour market.”
Hlabano said Labor law is not just a legal field—it’s the backbone of fair, respectful, and equitable employment practices.
“The knowledge you now possess empowers you to champion both workers and employers, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights upheld. This is a profound responsibility and one that will shape industries, communities, and individual lives in ways that are deeply meaningful,” said Hlabano.
He said, “Your time here, navigating the complexities of labor rights, employment standards, and workplace health and safety, was no easy task. You have learned about the laws that protect workers, the rights that safeguard their well-being, and the structures that make fair and productive labor relations possible.”
BOPEU officials said graduates have an opportunity to become ambassadors for a fair and just workplace. They also have the tools to advocate for employees’ voices to be heard, to resolve conflicts, and to champion policies that foster both productivity and respect.
“As you step into this new chapter of your careers, know that the work you’re embarking on has never been more important. The labor market is evolving at a rapid pace, influenced by technology, globalization, and shifting cultural expectations,” said Hlabano.
He said, “The skills you’ve developed—your knowledge of labor law, your ethical grounding, and your dedication to fair practice—will be the bedrock of stability, innovation, and resilience within our workforce.”
Hlabano challenged graduates to influence positive change. Advocate for fair wages, safe working environments, equal opportunity, and inclusive policies. Approach every challenge with empathy and an open mind. Whether you’re resolving disputes, advising on policies, or negotiating on behalf of workers or management, carry forward the values of justice and fairness that are the foundation of this institution.
“You are pioneers, the first graduates from ILES, and with that comes both a responsibility and an opportunity. You set the example for the classes that will follow, and you have the privilege to build something lasting—a reputation for excellence, fairness, and integrity that this institute will be known for in the years to come,” said Hlabano.
ILES focuses or the provision of soft-skills, skills that are critical for workers to perform their day to day duties.
