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This information is provided for general guidance and should not be considered legal advice. SchoolhouseTeachers.com is not responsible for any legal consequences resulting from the use of this information.

Understanding Homeschooling in Botswana

Botswana offers one of Africa’s most favorable environments for homeschooling families. Homeschooling is legal in Botswana, though it is not explicitly regulated. There is no specific law mandating school attendance, but parents are expected to ensure their children receive an education that meets national standards.

Legal Framework

Botswana’s education system explicitly acknowledges homeschooling:

• Estimates suggest that approximately 87% of school-age children attend public schools, around 10% attend private schools, and about 3% are homeschooled.
• Compulsory education in Botswana typically begins between ages five and eight and ends between ages sixteen and eighteen, depending on individual circumstances.
• This requirement can be satisfied through home school programs, not just institutional schooling.
• There is no specific requirement for homeschooling registration in Botswana.

While the legal environment is generally permissive, some ambiguity exists. Authorities have occasionally questioned homeschooling families, despite courts finding no educational or social problems with the children.

Homeschooling Community

The homeschooling movement in Botswana has grown in prominence and public awareness:

• Home education gained public attention when it became known that the daughter of the president was home educated
• A dedicated Facebook group “Homeschooling in Gaborone/Botswana” connects families
• The community continues to grow, particularly after receiving high-profile endorsement

Curriculum Options

Botswanan homeschoolers typically choose from several curriculum approaches:

• Botswana’s national curriculum
• International curricula (British, American, etc.)
• Faith-based, online, self-paced curricula like SchoolhouseTeachers.com (family membership)
• Custom-designed approaches based on individual needs

While there is no mandated curriculum for homeschoolers, aligning your educational program with recognized standards—such as the Botswana General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE) or international curricula like the Cambridge IGCSE—can help facilitate future transitions to higher education or employment.

University Admissions and Recognized Qualifications

For university admission in Botswana, homeschooled students may need to present recognized qualifications such as the BGCSE or its international equivalents. Families should ensure their homeschool curriculum aligns with the entrance requirements of the institutions they are considering.

SchoolhouseTeachers.com offers the flexibility families need to create personalized learning plans that can align with standards such as the BGCSE or IGCSE. Our Education Plan Builder helps map subjects across academic years, while record keeping tools assist in documenting progress for future applications to universities or training programs.