President Boko Backs TVET Reform to Boost Youth Employability and Entrepreneurship

President Boko Backs TVET Reform to Boost Youth Employability and Entrepreneurship. Botswana’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector is set for a transformative shift following a bold address by President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko at the official opening of the TVET Pitso and Expo. Speaking to educators, students, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, President Boko emphasized the role of TVET in tackling youth unemployment and driving economic diversification.

Held under the theme “Transformative TVET: A driver for enhanced innovation, social mobility, employability, and entrepreneurship for sustainable economic growth,” the event served as a platform to explore how vocational training can build a more resilient and inclusive economy.

President Boko called for a national rethink of the education system, stating that the country can no longer rely on diamonds alone and must instead cultivate skills and creativity among its youth. “This is a moment to reflect, to innovate, and to equip our young people with the tools they need to shape Botswana’s future,” he said.

In a major announcement welcomed by students and training providers alike, the President revealed that beginning August 2025, TVET student allowances will increase from P300 to P1,900, a move aimed at making vocational education more accessible and enabling students to focus fully on learning.

For Botswana’s entrepreneurs and businesses, the renewed focus on skills development presents an opportunity to engage with a growing pool of work-ready talent. The shift toward practical, industry-relevant training could also help bridge the gap between labour market demands and youth capabilities.