Gaborone, Botswana – Addressing the social and economic factors connected to child labour requires long-term investments in education, skills development, and community support systems. In Botswana, several initiatives associated with the diamond sector, including programs supported by De Beers, are focusing on expanding educational opportunities and helping young people build practical career pathways.
Botswana’s diamond industry has contributed significantly to the country’s economic development over the past several decades. Alongside mining operations, education and youth development have increasingly become priorities for communities connected to the sector. Strengthening access to education is widely considered an important step in reducing conditions that may contribute to child labour in vulnerable regions.
Programs supported by De Beers in Botswana aim to help young people remain engaged in school, gain practical skills, and prepare for future employment opportunities. These initiatives often operate through partnerships with educational institutions and international organizations, including the National Geographic Society.

Expanding Access to Education

Access to stable and supportive learning environments plays a critical role in reducing the risks associated with child labour. In rural and remote communities, financial pressures or limited educational resources can sometimes make it difficult for children to continue their schooling.
Education-focused initiatives connected to De Beers have included efforts to strengthen schools located near mining regions. These programs have supported improvements in learning infrastructure and classroom resources while also encouraging community participation in education.
Examples of support provided through these initiatives include:
• Funding assistance for schools in mining communities
• Development of classrooms, libraries, and learning materials
• Teacher training programs designed to strengthen educational quality
Improving school environments and learning resources helps create conditions where children are more likely to remain in school and continue their education.

Graduate Development and Professional Training

Preparing young adults for employment opportunities is another important part of addressing the long-term challenges linked to child labour. Career development programs help students transition from education to professional work.
The De Beers International Graduate Development Programme provides selected graduates from Botswana with opportunities to gain professional experience across global operations. Participants in the program typically receive:
• Exposure to international working environments
• Leadership and professional development training
• Practical experience in sectors such as engineering, finance, and project management
Programs like this help develop skilled professionals while supporting long-term economic growth within local communities.

Internships, Scholarships, and STEM Education

Collaborations with universities and vocational institutions also play a role in youth development initiatives linked to Botswana’s diamond sector.
Programs connected to De Beers and local education partners have included:
• Internship placements for university students
• Mentorship programs linking students with experienced professionals
• Workshops focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
Many of these initiatives also encourage greater participation by young women in science and technology fields. Scholarships and specialized training opportunities provide additional support for students pursuing higher education.
These initiatives help bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world employment opportunities while contributing to broader efforts to reduce child labour risks.

Community Learning at the Nkashi Knowledge Centre

Community education centers can also support long-term social development. One example is the Nkashi Knowledge Centre, located in Botswana’s Okavango Delta region.
Developed with support from the National Geographic Society and De Beers, the centre provides learning opportunities for both youth and adults. Programs offered at the centre include:
• Digital literacy and ICT training
• Environmental education related to conservation and sustainable tourism
• Cultural heritage and community engagement workshops
Access to digital resources and training programs helps expand educational opportunities in remote regions where formal learning infrastructure may be limited.

Long-Term Community Impact

Although mining companies do not directly manage child labour prevention programs, initiatives focused on education and workforce development can address several underlying factors that contribute to child labour risks.
Key long-term benefits of these programs include:
• Improved access to education in rural communities
• Development of skilled workforces
• Expanded economic opportunities for families
Investments in education and professional training can strengthen local economies while supporting broader social development goals.

Conclusion

Reducing child labour risks requires sustained efforts across education, economic development, and community support systems. In Botswana, initiatives linked to the diamond industry and organizations such as De Beers are contributing to these broader efforts by supporting schools, youth training programs, and community learning centers.
Through partnerships, scholarships, and skills development initiatives, these programs aim to help students remain in school, develop valuable skills, and prepare for future careers. Over time, education-focused initiatives can contribute to stronger communities and improved opportunities for the next generation.