A young advocate challenges the education debate
“When we talk about education, we forget to attach the important word – inclusivity,” Mantswe said. She focused on Sustainable Development Goal 4 and participated in youth advocacy activities around the summit. Her intervention put the experiences of children with disabilities into a discussion about progress towards global education commitments. [1]
Support must respect privacy and choice
In March 2022, Mantswe had described difficulties finding a primary school willing to admit her. Her aunt became her school aide. Mantswe also challenged a policy that would assign a new aide, asking for privacy and the option of support from a family member she trusted. [2]
Participation continues beyond one speech
UNICEF’s 2023 Botswana annual report recorded its continuing work with Mantswe, the establishment of an adolescent and youth advisory panel, and a children’s mock parliament. The report described these as ways of extending partnerships with young people themselves, giving their views a place in institutional discussions.