Community Development Students Conduct Needs Assessment at Artesia Main Kgotla with Widowers

  • 20 March 2025
  • Artesia Main Kgotla
Boitekanelo College Year 2 Community Development students recently carried out a highly impactful community needs assessment at the Artesia Main Kgotla, focusing on the emotional and socio-economic challenges faced by a group of widowers. This collaborative effort aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the community's needs and pave the way for long-term support.

Kgosi George Domi Thwane, deeply impressed by the students' professionalism and dedication, expressed his admiration for their work. He shared that he envisions this initiative as the beginning of a lasting partnership, not only with the widowers but also with the Artesia community as a whole. “I am incredibly impressed with how these students have approached this task,” said Kgosi George. “This is just the start of what I hope will be a long-term collaboration, benefiting not only the widowers but the entire Artesia community.”

The event also featured powerful testimonials from the widowers themselves, who shared their personal struggles and hopes for a brighter future. Kgosi George expressed his appreciation for the students’ efforts in truly understanding the complex emotional and socio-economic issues facing the widowers. “These testimonials have given us valuable insight into the community’s needs, and we will continue to explore ways to provide support and assistance,” he added.

One of the highlights of the day was the facilitation of the "Problem Tree Needs Assessment" by Wame Phuthologo, a standout student in the community development program. Wame skillfully led the session, explaining the process in the community's mother tongue, which allowed for a more inclusive and meaningful discussion. Her detailed approach and compassionate engagement were widely praised by both the participants and the community leaders.

A touching moment occurred when one community member shared her personal success story. She expressed heartfelt gratitude towards Boitekanelo College, highlighting how one of her children had attended the college and is now employed in a permanent, pensionable job. This testimony underscored the practical impact of Boitekanelo’s programs, which not only educate but also empower individuals to secure stable, long-term employment.

This event marks the beginning of what promises to be a fruitful and ongoing partnership between Boitekanelo College and the Artesia community. The students' commitment to service and the community's open and enthusiastic participation set the stage for continued collaboration, addressing pressing community issues and creating lasting change.