The state-owned Okavango Diamond Company (ODC) in Botswana has selected the first 10 participants for its newly-introduced Youth Entrepreneur Programme, an innovative educational initiative that will expose participants to the principles of entrepreneurship and the fundamentals of the diamond industry, according to reports in the African media.

Nearly 250 youth had applied for the programme, out of which 10 were selected to participate, the reports state. Applicants had to be Botswana citizens aged between 18-35 with appropriate educational qualifications and a proficiency in English.

The seven month programme commenced yesterday. It offers part-time training through a mix of assignments, class lectures, correspondence and online sessions. In partnership with a world-class business school and leading diamond consultants

The programme is being offered at no financial cost to the successful candidates.

Initially, the selected candidates will participate in a one week Diamond Foundation Seminar which will be delivered by industry experts through presentations and tours.

ODC officials told the media that the initiative would foster citizen empowerment and they were hopeful that the participants would grow to start successful diamond businesses and employ other youth.

They said it was a CSR initiative that aimed at giving back to the community and developing the local diamond industry.