Reflections: Independent Study in Botswana

Source: Rebecca Nanasi and Sarah King

It was winter in Botswana and we arrived on a beautiful afternoon in June. Winter in Botswana is similar to summer in Pennsylvania. The days are warm, usually in the 80’s, and the nights were cool. We thought we were only going to visit healthcare facilities, but we were exposed to much more. We got to experience the culture in Botswana. In Botswana, sensitivity and consideration play an enormous role in everyday life, much more than here. It was refreshing to feel safe, not only during the day, but also at night.

In 1965 when Botswana became independent from its protectorate, Great Britain, the government decided that every country should have a university. They made a decree that every family should donate one beast (cow) to the government to fund the University of Botswana. They collected almost two million pula, which was more than enough to build the university. It is apparent from this example of generosity that Batswana (the people of Botswana) cherish education.

The healthcare system was fascinating. Healthcare is free for Batswana. Although the healthcare providers had few supplies, they were able to accomplish more with less. We started our study at the administrative level and slowly worked our way down to a health post. Basically, a health post is care provided under a tree. Because of HIV/AIDS, the medical units are extremely overcrowded and healthcare providers are extremely overworked. Despite this demoralizing state, the nurses were upbeat and proud of their work.

Overall we had a wonderful stay in Botswana. It is an experience that we treasure.

Rebecca Nanasi and Sarah King

Sarah and Rebecca presented "Nursing and Health Care in Botswana: Sharing a Study Abroad Experience in Comparative Health Systems" at the International Brown Bag Lecture Series on September 27, 2004 and Dr. Beth Ann Swan delivered their paper at the 15th ICOWHI Congress in Sao Pedro, Brazil on November 5, 2004.