Government and De Beers Group have announced the inaugural cohort of graduates selected for the International Graduate Development Programme (IGDP), which has formally commenced. This milestone marks the start of one of several pioneering initiatives under the landmark Sales Agreement signed in February 2025.

The IGDP offers high-achieving Batswana graduates a two-year international placement across De Beers Group’s global operations. Participants will gain world-class skills, global exposure and leadership development, positioning them to contribute meaningfully to Botswana’s future workforce and international presence. The graduates selected as part of the first cohort reflect the breadth of Botswana’s emerging talent, spanning disciplines such as Business Intelligence, Data Analytics, Project Management, Accounting and Finance, Economics, Law, Engineering, Human Resources, Marketing, Logistics and Supply Chain Management.

The selection was guided by a structured and merit-based evaluation process designed to identify individuals with the highest potential for long-term success and impact. Minister of Minerals and Energy, Bogolo Kenewendo said the selection of the first IGDP graduates marks a proud milestone in their partnership with De Beers Group. As part of our new Sales Agreement, this initiative reflects our commitment to equipping Botswana’s youth for the future of work,” she said.

“De Beers Group has long supported the growth and diversity of Botswana’s talent pipeline and we are pleased to be building on that track record by welcoming the first cohort of IGDP participants to our business, where we know they will make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable skills and exposure that will benefit their own careers and Botswana’s future success,” added Malebogo Mpugwa, Chief People Officer of De Beers Group.