Introduction

Child labour prevention is an important priority for governments, communities, and industries operating in resource-rich regions. In diamond-producing areas, strengthening education systems and supporting youth development can help reduce the social and economic pressures that sometimes lead to child labour. The De Beers Group has supported education initiatives in Botswana that contribute to keeping children in school and expanding opportunities for young people. Through partnerships with community institutions, De Beers demonstrates how industry participation can complement broader strategies aimed at preventing child labour.

Education as a Foundation for Prevention

Education is widely recognized as one of the most effective tools for preventing child labour. In Botswana, diamond revenues have helped support strong public investment in education, contributing to free primary and secondary schooling across the country. This system encourages school attendance and helps reduce the risk of children entering labour environments prematurely.

Operations connected to the De Beers Group and its joint ventures contribute to development initiatives that support education systems and community infrastructure. Through these contributions, De Beers has helped reinforce access to education and learning opportunities in several communities.

Supporting Quality Learning and Skills Development

Beyond financial contributions, education programs connected to the diamond sector focus on improving the quality of learning. Collaborative initiatives between the company, schools, and local institutions support teacher training and student engagement in important academic subjects.

Key initiatives include:

• Teacher training programs designed to strengthen classroom instruction.
• STEM education workshops encouraging students—especially girls—to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
• Mentoring and learning support programs that enhance student engagement and academic outcomes.

These efforts help ensure that children remain engaged in school, which is a key factor in preventing child labour.

Youth Empowerment and Employability

Education initiatives are also supported by youth employability programs that prepare students for future careers. Through collaborations with universities, government ministries, and organizations such as UNICEF, workshops have been organized to help young people build professional skills.

These programs often include:

• Career preparation workshops
• CV writing and interview training
• Job-market awareness sessions

By helping young people understand career opportunities and develop practical skills, these initiatives reinforce the long-term value of education and provide alternatives to early workforce entry.

Diamond-Supported Schools in Mining Communities

Diamond revenues have also supported schools located near mining communities such as Orapa and Letlhakane. Educational funding has contributed to improved school facilities and learning environments for children living in these areas.

Access to well-resourced schools strengthens community confidence in education and encourages families to prioritize schooling over early employment.

Addressing Root Causes of Child Labour

Experts often emphasize that reducing child labour requires addressing its root causes, including poverty, lack of education, and limited employment opportunities. Programs focused on education, skills development, and youth empowerment can play an important role in reducing these risks.

By supporting educational initiatives and youth development programs, the De Beers Group contributes to community development efforts that complement initiatives supported by organizations such as the International Labour Organization. These efforts illustrate how partnerships between industry and communities can help strengthen child protection and education systems.

Conclusion

Preventing child labour requires coordinated action from governments, communities, international organizations, and industry stakeholders. Education-focused initiatives in Botswana show how investments in schools, teacher development, and youth employability programs can strengthen opportunities for children.

Through continued support for educational development and community programs, De Beers highlights how responsible industry engagement can contribute to broader efforts that help ensure children remain in classrooms and gain the skills needed for future success.