25 Apr 2023

De Beers Diamond Academy has awarded 20 scholarships in rough and polished diamond technical skills to educators in Botswana.

In an interview, DeBeers Group stakeholder and government relations manager, Ms Tumie Ramsden said the programme would be delivered in partnership with the DeBeers Institute of Diamonds based in London.

Ms Ramsden said the hands-on training programme aimed to support the growth and success of knowledge-based economy objectives as well as sharpen citizenry skills to tap into opportunities presented by the diamond value chain.

“It will also cover sorting and valuation of rough diamonds and how they are converted into polished and eventually turned into jewellery pieces,” she said. In addition, she said the programme would comprise both virtual and in-person practical sessions valued at P250 000 and would be led by DeBeers Diamond Academy team of experienced trainers through interactive sessions. “Notably, these training sessions meant to conclude in May will enable participants to learn about DeBeers product as well as share their experiences with their learners,” she added.

She explained that the programme targeted 20 lecturers from the University of Botswana, Oodi College of Applied Arts and Technology, as well as nominees from the Ministry of Education and Skills Development and the Department of Vocational and Technical Development. 

Attendees will partake in a tailor-made hands-on diamond training from basic to intermediate level.

Ms Ramsden thus emphasised the need for educators to continuously hone their professional skills to catalyse the next generation with the theoretical and practical skills that would not only make them employable but employers as well.

“De Beers is committed to supporting government partners to leverage Botswana’s unique diamond story particularly in the Amended Procurement Act Citizen oriented areas of jewellery design, manufacturing, sorting and sales skills,” she added.

Again, she said they were looking forward to seeing the positive impact of their enhanced technical diamond knowledge on their learners, adding that investing in professional development of educators would lead to accelerated opportunities for all stakeholders involved. 

Moreover, she said DeBeers was committed to building innovative ways of empowering communities and find purposeful ways to drive action across the value chain. 

“We are excited to contribute to Botswana’s education system by drawing on new and existing partnerships such as this. 

Our goal is to become an active partner in Botswana’s Reset Agenda,” she said. ENDS