HRDC CHARTS BOLD PATH FOR HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT: NHRDS PROJECT LAUNCHED
HRDC CHARTS BOLD PATH FOR HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT: NHRDS PROJECT LAUNCHED
In a landmark move to recalibrate Botswana’s human capital development, the Ministry of Higher Education in partnership with African Development Bank and Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) officially launched the National Human Resource Development Strategy (NHRDS) Project. A bold initiative aimed at aligning education and training with the nation’s long-term economic vision.
Held on the 10th October 2025 at Grand Aria hotel, the launch attracted stakeholders across different sectors of the economy including from Government, Industry, Academia, and Civil society, all united by a shared commitment to shaping a future-ready workforce.
The Minister of Higher Education, Honourable Prince Maele, delivered a keynote address, reaffirming the Government’s unwavering commitment to human capital development. Honorable Maele called for a robust strengthening of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), a strategic shift from traditional academic pathways to skills-based learning that meets real-world demands. “Our youth are no longer just students, they are our new diamonds. We must mine their potential through empowerment, not just education,” Hon Maele emphisised.
He urged national alignment of the NHRDS with Vision 2036, National Development Plan 12 (NDP 12), and the Botswana Transformative Economic Program (BTEP), framing the strategy as a national covenant to build a resilient, adaptive workforce.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Higher Education, Professor Richard Tabulawa described the NHRDS as a “strategic compass” guiding Botswana toward Vision 2036. “This is not just an evaluation exercise, It’s a moment of reflection and recalibration. We must ensure that every pula invested in education and training yields dividends for both individuals and the economy” said Professor Tabulawa. He also highlighted the need for strategic collaboration between government, industry, and education providers to close gaps and unlock economic opportunities.
The HRDC Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Professor Alinah K. Segobye highlighted the Council’s role in ensuring that the strategy reflects regional diversity, gender equity, and youth aspirations, noting that Botswana’s demographic dividend can only be realised through intentional, inclusive planning. Professor Segobye, underscored the importance of evidence-based planning, stating that “We must listen to the labour market and respond with agility. This strategy must be inclusive, data-driven, and responsive to the needs of both employers and communities.”
In closing the HRDC Board Chairperson Ms. Choice Pitso praised the vibrant participation of stakeholders, describing it as a testament to Botswana’s collective will. She encouraged continued engagement throughout the strategy’s development, noting that, a strategy built in silos is a strategy destined to fail.
The launch event also featured discussions, allowing attendants to contribute ideas, raise concerns and provide advice towards the NHRDS Project. As Botswana stands at the crossroads of economic transformation, the NHRDS Evaluation and Development Project signals a renewed national commitment to investing in people. With the strategy now under development, stakeholders are invited to contribute to shaping a future where every citizen has the skills, knowledge, and opportunity for Botswana to thrive as a knowledge-based economy.
