16 Oct 2013

The public has been urged to effectively and efficiently utilise government programmes that are meant to eradicate poverty and fight unemployment.

In an interview, Botswana National Youth Council officer in Tsabong, Mr Emmanuel Galebue pointed out that lack of knowledge, ignorance and lack of support services were major factors that contributed to people not taking advantage of government programmes.

He advised people to acquire relevant knowledge and information on various government programmes. He further advised them to refrain from being ignorant and develop a character of always being involved and willing to take part in programmes that government was offering as a way of helping to curb poverty and unemployment.

Mr Galebue said entrepreneurial studies should be introduced to students at a tender age, especially when at primary schools to make them aware of what happened in the business world. He said this gesture would also mould them to be independent citizens who would be able to create job opportunities for themselves and others through businesses.

He further said people should venture into small businesses and gain knowledge, information and skills to effectively and efficiently run them. “The abilities and personal characteristics of a small business owner exert a powerful influence on the success of his business but, the acquisition of business knowledge and skills add more to the success of the business therefore, gaining of business knowledge and skills is crucial,” he said.

Mr Galebue urged the public to explore government programmes such as the Youth Development Fund and other funding opportunities such as the Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA). He further advised them to explore opportunities in the manufacturing and tourism, saying that both industries had potential of adding value to both an individual and country’s economy.

Mr Galebue stressed that if government programmes were effectively and efficiently used, they could turn people’s lives around and give them a meaning. He said wise use of such programmes will contribute significantly to the general well being of Botswana and also improve individual citizen’s lives. Ends