Africa-Press – Botswana. The Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Major General Pius Mokgware has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering interns by improving their conditions of service and expanding placement opportunities, including international placements, under a newly revamped National Internship Programme.
Speaking at the launch of a series of nationwide stakeholder consultations on the programme, Major General Mokgware announced key reforms aimed at enhancing the relevance and impact of the initiative.
“We are working on partnering with organisations that can help us identify and take advantage of employment opportunities globally,” said Mr Mokgware, adding that government will begin sending interns outside Botswana as part of the improved programme.
He noted that the revamped programme will also allow for increased private sector placements, while creating opportunities for permanent absorption into employment. In addition, he highlighted the need for accountability among interns, stressing that they must uphold the programme’s standards.
“You have to report for duty on time, deliver assignments on time, and demonstrate your potential to be a valuable part of the organisation where you are placed,” he said.
Maj. Gen. Mokgware underscored the significance of the internship programme as a platform for fresh graduates to enhance both their technical and soft skills, build confidence, and improve employability locally and abroad.
“The Internship Programme is not just about keeping you busy because you do not have a job. It’s about preparing you for the job market and giving you the tools to thrive,” he said.
He further highlighted that the ministry had prioritised improving the ease of doing business in Botswana. To attract both domestic and foreign investment, which in turn will boost job creation for interns, a critical effort given that youth make up approximately 60 per cent of the population. In efforts to make the programme more conducive, Mr Mokgware said interns would now be offered formal contracts, ensuring safety, respect and access to basic support during their attachments.
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