Basic Concepts Programme

1,000 Kilometres. Countless Conversations.

From meetings with Ministry of Education officials in Gaborone to presentations with educators and school leaders, and finally to the ISAB Conference in Kasane, our recent visit to Botswana was an opportunity to listen, learn and share.

Over six days, we engaged with people who are deeply committed to improving educational outcomes for children. We discussed the importance of conceptual learning, language development and the foundations that support literacy and academic success.

The trip was not about arriving with all the answers. It was about exploring whether the challenges we encounter in South Africa are shared elsewhere, and whether the Basic Concepts Programme might contribute to those conversations.

We return encouraged by the relationships formed, the interest shown, and the possibilities that lie ahead.

Thank you to BMS and Jon Bhima for making this journey possible through their sponsorship and hospitality.

Why do so many teacher training workshops fail to produce lasting classroom change?

The answer may be that workshops are only the starting point.

Real change requires teachers to question established routines, experiment with new practices, learn from setbacks, receive ongoing support and gradually build confidence in new ways of teaching.

Research and implementation experience suggest that sustainable improvement happens through a long-term developmental process — not through a single training event.

The workshop is visible. The hard work happens beneath the surface.

At Basic Concepts Foundation, we believe the goal is not simply training teachers. The goal is supporting meaningful and lasting changes in classroom practice.

What support do you think teachers need most after training?

Our projects are buzzing across South Africa!

From Bridges of Learning to our Focus Schools, Metro East Education District and Kwena Basin projects, classrooms are alive with participation, language development, problem-solving and joyful learning.

Every photo tells a story of teachers investing in learners and learners growing in confidence, curiosity and capability.

Here’s a glimpse of the incredible work happening across our projects during the first half of 2026.