11 Nov 2013

Artisans gathered at the University of Botswana's (UB) business school in Gaborone on November 9 to educate young people and unemployed youth about the various options available to them to earn an income and live economically active lives. 

The exhibition, the first of its kind in Botswana, was sponsored by Barclays Bank and attracted artisans from across a wide spectrum, bringing their various tools of trade to demonstrate the work they did. The platform involved coaching youth on entrepreneurship, guided discussions on entrepreneurship, sharing skills and providing advice on how to develop business ideas.  

Barclays community relations manager, Ms Yodit Molosi revealed that the event affirmed the bank’s commitment to give the necessary and much needed skills to young people to own up their lives and their future.

“As part of our community agenda, we have found it fit to provide young people ages 10-35 with the skills they require to live economically active lives. Our focus this year is centred around enterprise skills, financial literacy skills and employability,” said Ms Molosi.

She explained that through the bank’s partnership with UB and the Department of Youth, they planned to reach out to young people in response to the challenge of unemployment. 

She also noted that an active player in the economy of Botswana, the bank has responded to government’s call to create an enabling environment for youth empowerment through partnerships towards active participation in national development. 

Ms Molosi further explained that the Artisan Fair was a skills sharing platform for young people to promote entrepreneurial thinking and culture. She also said that entrepreneurship and small businesses have globally been proven to be the primary creators of jobs in any economy.

“And so by participating in this initiative, young people will have the opportunity to explore their ambitions and ultimately contribute to the growth of our economy.” 

According to Ms Racheal Mushaike, head of marketing and communications at Barclays Bank, the time has come for the private sector to assume the role of thought leaders in creating sustainable partnerships with government and other key economic players if Botswana is to achieve the goals of Vision 2016. 

“As a key player in the national economy, and part of the fabric of the Botswana society, we are aware of the responsibility and expectations that come with our position. Our commitment to the broader society in which we do business is demonstrated by our continued participation in, and contribution to, sustainable projects and programmes that change the lives of the underprivileged members of our community,” Ms Mushaike said. 

Each year Barclays hosts a community volunteering campaign where the all employees volunteer their skill and time in projects that will make a difference in the communities. Ends