SRC Union’s Calculated Calm: Steering Student Power Toward Strategic Protest?

Tertiary students continue their efforts to convince the Government to increase their living allowances. In a press conference held on 1 August 2025, student leaders from different institutions reiterated their demand, with University of Botswana student and youth activist, Eric Karabelo, affirming that they still intend to march on the 8th of August 2025 to deliver a petition to the Ministry of Higher Education.

What began as a radical campaign appears to be transitioning into a more strategically coordinated protest, especially following a statement by Mr Topo Kwena, President of the University of Botswana Student Representative Council. Mr Kwena revealed that the SRC Union, representing tertiary institutions nationwide, has resolved to join and consolidate the initiative.

Mr Eric Karabelo emphasized that the student movement is open to working with the Government to realize its promises and improve student welfare. As a suggestion, he proposed a government-managed fund contributed to by students and the public, acknowledging the government’s limited financial capacity. However, the feasibility of this approach may be questionable, given that most students already find their allowances insufficient and may be unable to contribute, particularly if participation in the fund is voluntary.

Karabelo further urged young leaders in government, such as the Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs and the Assistant Minister of Health, to take an active stance and represent the youth. He cited their silence on the matter of student allowances as a troubling absence of leadership. He also took aim at the opposition, directly calling out the Leader of Opposition, Dumelang Saleshando, saying;

“You have been terribly silent.”

For many, the silence of such a senior opposition figure signals a weak link in a political movement long believed to be radical and people-driven. Even the Shadow Minister of Higher Education, appointed by the Botswana Congress Party, has remained silent on this pivotal issue. As the opposition often proclaims itself a “government in waiting,” students expected more proactive engagement in these matters.

Notably, it is the SRC Union, under Mr Kwena’s leadership, that has emerged as the voice of composure and coordination. He clarified that the student initiative should be characterized as a “Peaceful Protest,” seemingly diverging from the original framing by Karabelo and Loago Saleshando, who had earlier referred to the demonstration as a “strike.” This tonal shift raises the question: Has the Moono-wa-Baithuti-led SRC Union subtly taken control of the demonstration to moderate its radical edge while preserving its political pressure?

The SRC’s involvement likely comes down to the numbers and trust they command among the student population. Students believe in their SRC leadership and will show up in full force to support any effort that seeks to petition the government. In this light, Mr Kwena’s approach may represent a strategic recalibration, one that channels the frustration of students into a diplomatically structured form of protest. Even Karabelo now uses the term “peaceful protest,” which could suggest alignment with this more measured direction.

The shared hope among all students is to see this initiative deliver meaningful results and ultimately improve their living conditions. Provided it remains free of political co-option, this movement holds strong potential to positively affect student lives.

Further asserting his position, Karabelo made clear that students would escalate matters legally should the government fail to respond. Speaking of Minister of Higher Education Prince Maele, he said;

“If he does not respond, he will respond willingly or unwillingly.”

This shows an intent to pursue all necessary channels to advocate for the silent majority of students who depend on these leaders for change.

Finally, the student leaders reiterated their commitment to all youth, including those under the Ministry of Basic Education. Broadening the scope of advocacy demonstrates a unified student front aimed at ensuring inclusivity in any government response to the current crisis. With the SRC Union now appearing to guide this movement with a blend of urgency and restraint, the potential for effective, well-received protest seems stronger than ever.