6 Most In-Demand Skills in Botswana for 2025

The Government of Botswana aims to transform the nation from an upper middle-income economy to a high-income economy by the year 2036. To achieve this goal, Botswana is working to grow both its tech and non-tech sectors by diversifying its economy.

However, according to the World Bank and other studies, one major challenge in this plan is the growing shortage of skills. Without the right skills, it has become difficult for businesses and industries to grow. In this article, we will talk about the most in-demand skills in Botswana. 

Key Aspects of Work Culture in Botswana

It is crucial to learn about the work culture of Botswana to have good relationships, work in harmony with teams, and succeed. Whether you are working, hiring, or doing business in the country, the following are some of the most significant elements of Botswana's culture:

• ‍Clear Communication: In Botswana, clear and respectful communication is valued, and feedback from seniors is given gently to maintain harmony and strong team relationships. This approach fosters trust and a collaborative work environment.‍
• Dress Code Matters: Professional appearance is important in Botswana. Most workplaces require neat formal dressing as it is a sign of showing respect to colleagues and the workplace and seriousness towards responsibilities and duties.‍
• Appreciation for Learning: Botswana’s workplaces encourage employees to learn new skills. Training sessions, workshops, and professional growth opportunities are supported to help individuals improve and contribute to the country’s overall development goals.

Which Skills are In Demand in Botswana

As per World Bank reports, Botswana is facing a shortage of skilled workers in tech sectors like Information Technology (IT) and communications. However, even non-tech sectors such as healthcare are struggling to find employees with the right skills. Here are some skills to learn in Botswana in 2025:

1. Cloud Computing Skills

Cloud computing is becoming more popular in Botswana, with many small and medium businesses now relying on cloud-based solutions to run their daily tasks. Sectors like finance, healthcare, retail and education are using cloud tools to work faster, save money and grow without big hurdles.

But reports show there is a shortage of skilled professionals in this area. There is a growing demand for people who can manage cloud platforms, handle data security and help companies move to the cloud.

2. Teaching and Education Skills

According to UNICEF, Botswana has invested more in recruiting teachers and education over the last few years. However, the allocation of teachers often overlooks the regions with the highest shortages. This mismatch has caused problems in the education system.

The Botswana Gazette reports that nearly 4,000 qualified teachers are currently needed, especially in the rural areas of Botswana. The president of the Botswana Sectors of Trade Union (BOSETU), Winston Radikolo, has urged the government to take quick action like recruiting more teaching staff and find solutions to this growing concern.

3. Healthcare Skills

Botswana's population is aging, and this has boosted the need for healthcare workers such as nurses, physicians and caregivers. The government has taken note of this and is working towards hiring more healthcare workers to bolster the healthcare system. Since November 2024, efforts to boost participation in the healthcare industry have been boosted.

4. ICT and Digital Skills

Botswana is making big strides in digital transformation. The country’s SmartBots Strategy plans to connect 500 villages to broadband and build a 12,000 km fibre optic network by 2025 to improve internet access everywhere. In fact, the ICT sector grew by 4.1% in the second quarter of 2024, showing steady progress.

But as per experts, many young people lack the technical skills needed for digital jobs, and advanced ICT positions. The government is working to improve this by focusing on skill development and digital training and employ more people in this sector. 

5. Data Analytics Skills

Botswana has a long-term vision to use data-driven decision-making for its growth and development. However, the country is currently facing challenges in data production in the key sectors like education, health, agriculture. This shortage of quality data makes it difficult for leaders to plan policies and make smart, informed decisions.

Another major challenge is the lack of skilled professionals who can analyze data. Building data analysis skills is key for Botswana to move forward in a world where decisions are based on data.

6. Cybersecurity Skills

As Botswana goes digital the need for cybersecurity experts has become more critical. But there is a shortage of skilled workers in this area, making it hard for companies and government bodies to protect important data and systems.

According to reports, attracting and retaining cybersecurity talent is a challenge. Botswana will need to focus on developing cybersecurity training and offering opportunities to young professionals to fill this gap and ensure digital safety.

How to Gain These Skills As Per Botswana’s Job Market?

The job market in Botswana is changing fast, and learning through government-funded vocational education and training (VET) programs can help job seekers stay competitive. Here are three key government-funded VET institutions offering tech-focused skills:

1. Botswana Institute of Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI)

BITRI focuses on technology research and training. They offer courses in ICT, software development, data analysis and cybersecurity to equip students with practical knowledge needed in the tech market. The institute also collaborates with industries and government bodies to ensure training is aligned with current national development goals and real-world applications.

2. Botswana Open University (BOU)

BOU provides distance learning with diverse certificate and diploma courses in computer studies, cloud computing and IT support. Their programs are open to young students and working professionals who wish to reskill. With an emphasis on distance learning, BOU offers convenient learning solutions, allowing students all over Botswana to advance their careers without affecting their existing engagements.

Conclusion

These are the top in-demand skills in Botswana in 2025. The country’s job market is shifting toward adopting more technology and building a skilled workforce to achieve its Vision 2036 goals. If you want to make the most of these growing opportunities, it’s the right time to upskill based on what the market needs.

In addition, corporate training will become the next big focus as companies look to train and prepare their teams for the future. If you are someone looking to upskill your team, rely on Edstellar and their Skill Matrix Tool for easy tracking and better monitoring of team progress.