Should Law Be Taught in Botswana Schools?

Legal education is vital because it gives students a foundational understanding of the legal system, their rights, and the principles of justice. In Botswana, where laws and policies affect the daily lives of everyone, a question that lies in the balance is: are students aware of the legal system, do they engage with it, and do they understand it? Unfortunately, the majority of the youth complete high school without knowing the law-making process or what rights they are entitled to. In order for this bridge to be gapped, legal education should be made mandatory to ensure that the country nurtures law-abiding citizens.

Knowledge of the law is not limited to lawyers; everyone should know it. After all, how can we truly be a democratic country if we do not understand our rights and the legal system? The voting process and holding our leaders accountable require a little knowledge of the law. Other factors that require knowledge of the law include instances where members join the work force. How would they recognize an unfair contract or be able to identify a violation of their rights if they have never been taught the basics of the law? Teaching students how laws are made and the rights they are entitled to is a step toward empowering the youth. It will give them the tools to stand up for themselves and others, all while making informed decisions that contribute to society.

An average member of the youth is online the majority of the time, either posting pictures, communicating with friends, sharing videos, or signing up for apps. Others are in relationships or working odd jobs in their free time without knowing that all of these have certain legal risks and responsibilities. For example, when visiting websites, they click “I agree” to the website’s terms and conditions without actually knowing what they are agreeing to or what the implications are. This further illustrates why legal education is important.

Some argue that adding legal education will overload the school curriculum. But teaching the basics of law does not have to be complicated. It can be practical and flexible, and easily included in subjects like Social Studies. Students do not need to study full court cases. They just need to understand everyday issues like consent, contracts, online safety, human rights, and environmental responsibility. These topics can be introduced gradually, in ways that align with their age and real-life experiences.

Teaching law in schools also helps create a safer society, especially for those who are often overlooked or mistreated. When students learn about things like consent, family issues, domestic violence, and discrimination, they are more likely to speak out when something is wrong, whether it affects them or someone else. Girls gain confidence from understanding their rights when it comes to inheritance, owning property, and having control over their own bodies.

Making legal education part of school can help reduce crime and conflict. Many minor offences and disputes come from a lack of knowledge, not bad intentions. When people understand their legal responsibilities, they are more likely to follow the rules. Legal education also encourages civil responsibility. It shows students not just how laws work, but how they can be improved, which will enforce critical thinking among the youth.

This kind of education holds value far beyond the courtroom. Legal awareness is something everyone can benefit from, as it reaches into every profession, every community, and every home. Whether you become a doctor, entrepreneur, artist, teacher, or farmer, understanding how the law protects you and how you are expected to uphold it is an essential part of navigating life confidently and responsibly.

Legal education in schools should not be considered a luxury. It should be considered a necessity. Young people are expected to follow laws they were never taught and make life-altering decisions without understanding their rights. This gap leaves them exposed, disempowered, and often silent in the face of injustice. By integrating legal education into the curriculum, we are not only teaching rules. We are nurturing informed, responsible citizens. We are helping students to ask better questions, challenge unfairness, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Whether someone dreams of becoming a doctor, a farmer, or an entrepreneur, knowing the basics of the legal system is a life skill they will carry forever. If we truly believe in equality, democracy, and justice, we must start young. Giving students access to legal knowledge is not just good policy. It is an investment in a more conscious and fair-minded generation. And that is something society cannot afford to overlook.