15 Apr 2026

Officers under the government internship programme have submitted a petition calling for the implementation of a previously announced increase in internship allowances from P1,900 to P4,000.

The petition was presented to the Director in the Department of Employment Services at the Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs, Ms Tshenolo Omphitlhetse in Gaborone on Tuesday.

Receiving the petition, Ms Omphitlhetse expressed appreciation for the interns’ action and assured them that the matter would be reviewed, with a response to follow.

The petition, spearheaded by a recognised committee advocating for interns’ welfare, highlighted concerns over stagnant allowances, outdated programme guidelines, and limited career progression opportunities.

Speaking on behalf of the petitioners, policy advocate, Ms Precious Kiberu emphasised that interns were qualified, skilled and deserving of better conditions.

“We are placed based on our qualifications, yet denied opportunities to apply for internal vacancies. We are contributing meaningfully, but earning wages that do not reflect our value or the current economic realities,” she said.

Ms Kiberu further called for the amendment of the 2016 internship guidelines. She cited that as per the regulations, remuneration of female interns were suspended when on maternity leave.

“Such provisions are not only outdated but infringe on basic human rights. How does one survive on P1 900 under these conditions, especially given the rising cost of living,” she said.

The petition calls for a comprehensive review of the internship framework, including an immediate allowance increase, revision of guidelines and improved welfare considerations.

Interns also indicted that they were underutilised in their respective workplaces, as there were often assigned menial tasks, unrelated to their qualifications.

“We are here to gain experience and develop professionally, not to be reduced to errand runners, we want meaningful work and fair compensation. 

We matter and we want change now,” Ms Kiberu said.

Concurring with Ms Kiberu, Ms Benita Magopane stressed that the demand for a P4,000 allowance was not arbitrary but based on commitments previously made by Minister of Labour and Home Affairs.

“This is what we were promised last year, the economic situation in Botswana has worsened since then, and the cost of living continues to rise. It is only fair that the government fulfills its promise,” said Ms Magopane

She also noted concerns about the future of the internship programme, including unfulfilled pledges of programme restructuring, international placement opportunities and potential absorption into permanent roles. ENDS