In an important bid to bolster human capital development and combat youth unemployment, the Ministry of Youth and Gender Affairs (MYGA), in strategic partnership with Business Botswana (BB), has announced the launch of the National Mentorship Programme.
The pilot initiative, which opens for applications today, aims to bridge the gap between education and the professional world by connecting aspiring entrepreneurs and job seekers with seasoned industry leaders.
Bridging the Skills Gap
The primary objective of the programme is to enhance employability, foster entrepreneurship, and facilitate professional growth. By pairing mentees with experienced professionals and business executives, the initiative seeks to provide the “soft skills” and strategic guidance often missing from formal education.
According to the announcement, the mentorship will be conducted primarily virtually, ensuring that geography does not limit access to top-tier guidance.
Who Should Apply?
The Ministry has cast a wide net for this pilot phase, targeting several critical demographics. Eligible groups include:
Youth: Individuals aged 18–35.
Women: Both entrepreneurs and career professionals.
Persons with Disabilities: Ensuring inclusive growth.
Entrepreneurs: Specifically start-ups and those in early-stage business development.
Job Seekers & Young Professionals: Those looking for career mapping and guidance.
A Race Against Time
Prospective applicants must act immediately. The application window is exceptionally brief, opening today, 29 January 2026, and closing tomorrow, 30 January 2026.
The Ministry has emphasized that there are limited slots available for this pilot phase. Furthermore, strict application protocols are in place: only complete online applications submitted before the deadline will be considered. Late or incomplete submissions will be automatically disqualified.
How to Participate
Interested individuals are urged to complete the specific “Mentee Application Form” available via the link provided on the Ministry’s official social media platforms. Given the 48-hour window, eligible candidates are advised to apply without delay to secure a chance at this career-defining opportunity.
