An expert says youth unemployment in Botswana is fuelled by young people’s attitudes and socio-cultural perceptions, which limit their career choices and readiness for the job market.
Motsholathebe Bowelo, a consultant in research, monitoring, and evaluation, asserts that socio-cultural influences and behavioral obstacles play a crucial role in shaping the career choices of the youth and emphasisesthe need for transforming these mindsets to enhance adaptability and job readiness among young people in Botswana.
He highlighted that familial expectations and limited exposure to career and guidance reinforce a restricted perspective on employment opportunities. He says a considerable number of young individuals depend on informal networks, such as friends and family, for career guidance instead of utilizing structured support systems.
Bowelo observed that a majority of young people still aspire to secure government positions, which are perceived as stable, respected, and offering superior benefits compared to jobs in the private sector or entrepreneurship.
He says this perception stems from societal expectations
“I want my children to work for the government because the jobs are permanent and pensionable.” He says
He indicated that these perceptions have constrained their outlook on employment opportunities.
Additionally, he pointed out that young individuals face psychological and social barriers when seeking employment. He noted that the fear of failure and a dependency mindset contribute to their lack of confidence in pursuing entrepreneurial ventures, thereby perpetuating their reliance on government jobs, which ultimately stifles innovation.
He referred to a survey conducted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the report titled ‘Youth Employment in Botswana, which revealed that fifty-eight percent of youth report lacking marketable skills, with women being disproportionately affected, sixty-three percent compared to fifty percent of men. Furthermore, forty-six percent of youth express a desire to work in the public sector, and half of the surveyed youth reported a prevalent use of substances among their peers, reflecting how youth attitudes have become their obstacle.
To shift these perceptions, Bowelo advocates for a multifaceted approach that involves collaboration among all stakeholders. He contends that youth unemployment in Botswana is not merely an economic concern; it is also a cultural and educational challenge.
He believes that by tackling socio-cultural biases and dismantling behavioral barriers, Botswana can unlock the potential of its young population.
Bowelo states that engaging the government, private sector, educators, and families is essential for fostering a future in which young people can excel beyond traditional employment paths.
He emphasizes the importance of private sector partnerships to facilitate networking between successful entrepreneurs and the private sector through mentorship. Such mentorships, he asserts, promote self-discovery and empower mentees to take control of their personal and professional journeys.
“Encourage businesses to offer internships and apprenticeships to build experience,” Bowelo stresses.
Moreover, mentorship addresses career barriers that could hinder their self-discovery.
To nurture a culture of youth entrepreneurship, Boweloinsists that access to funding is crucial, which can be facilitated through grants, loans, and other financial incentives, along with tax benefits for investors who support startups.
“Provide grants, low-interest loans, and tax breaks for youth-led startups,” he adds.
He asserts that public awareness campaigns are vital in underscoring the importance of careers beyond conventional high-paying positions and in showcasing the value of diverse skills and experiences.
He remarked that these reforms have been proposed previously, but while such initiatives are currently being implemented in Botswana, there is a lack of rigorous monitoring and evaluation of them.
