05 Jul 2018

Efforts by the Association of Botswana Schools Performing Arts (ABOSPA) to develop young talent in performing arts is reportedly handicapped by budgetary constraints. The association has therefore appealed to local private companies for support.

Speaking in an interview with BOPA recently at Mahalapye, Secretary General Mr Michael Mosipidi said that the performing arts competitions are hindered by financial constraints.

He said some of the schools were not able to partake in the activities due to budgetary constraints. 

Mr Mosipidi further noted that last year, ABOSPA received a sponsorship of 66 trophies worth P90 000 from Junctions Electrical Services, while this year, their efforts to lure companies to sponsor the activities were unsuccessful.

He further said ABOSPA organised three competitions annually, adding that this year’s activities were kickstarted with zonal competitions where winners progressed to elimination stage, while all the winners at the elimination round will battle it out at the finals scheduled for August.

 “Besides our efforts we are concerned that the business community and other potential sponsors were reluctant to help us unearth young talent,” he said.

He said lack of funds did not only affect their local activities, adding that relationships that were established with neighbouring countries were also handicapped.

He revealed that in May this year, the association was invited to a workshop organised by an organisation called “LET THEM,” in Zimbabwe, but failed to honour the invitation due to lack of funds.

Despite financial constraints, Mr Mosipidi was optimistic that the organisation will remain focused on nurturing young talent in performing arts.

He said performing arts have the potential to empower young people who were currently the most affected by unemployment and even diversify the economy of the country.

ABOSPA’s main mandate is to promote talent in performing arts at primary, secondary and tertiary schools.

Its main objective is to promote, unearth, develop and nurture talent, with a focus on performing arts, music and dance. ENDS