Orange Digital Center Empowers Youth Innovation in Botswana

Orange Digital Center Empowers Youth Innovation in Botswana. The Orange Digital Center (ODC) is fast emerging as one of Botswana’s leading hubs for youth innovation and digital skills development, offering free training programmes and entrepreneurial support to young people eager to participate in the digital economy.

During a recent Media and Stakeholder Engagement session in Gaborone, Orange Botswana officials highlighted the centre’s role in preparing youth for opportunities in technology-driven industries. Journalists toured the innovation labs and were introduced to programmes designed to strengthen skills in technology, entrepreneurship, and employability.

Since opening its doors in November 2022, the ODC has trained more than 2,200 young people, equipping them with practical knowledge and tools to thrive in the digital space. Initiatives such as the Orange Summer Challenge have helped participants transform ideas into business solutions through hands-on digital and entrepreneurial training.

The centre’s impact comes at a time when Botswana is expanding investment in digital transformation, with growing opportunities in artificial intelligence, e-commerce, and online services. However, challenges such as limited startup funding, high internet costs, and shortages of technical expertise continue to affect many young innovators.

Orange Botswana emphasized its commitment to bridging these gaps by providing access to mentorship, innovation spaces, and training programmes that prepare youth to compete globally. The centre’s mission is to empower young people with the skills and confidence needed to drive innovation and contribute to Botswana’s knowledge-based economy.

The ODC’s growing influence highlights the importance of partnerships between the private sector and communities in building sustainable pathways for youth empowerment. As more young innovators engage with the centre, Botswana’s digital ecosystem is poised to benefit from fresh ideas, entrepreneurial energy, and technological advancement.