Botswana is expanding opportunities for practical diamond education through a collaboration between the Harry Oppenheimer Diamond Training School and STARGEMS Diamond Training Institute in Gaborone. The initiative focuses on developing local talent through specialised rough diamond evaluation training and strengthening technical skills within Botswana’s diamond industry.
The practical programme gives trainees experience working with natural rough diamonds and learning how to assess key characteristics, including colour, clarity, carat weight and cut potential. Participants also gain an understanding of the evaluation process and how it informs decisions about a diamond’s potential value and manufacturing possibilities.
The Harry Oppenheimer Diamond Training School, established in 1990, specialises in diamond education, including rough diamond evaluation, diamond grading and polishing. Its collaboration with STARGEMS brings specialised training to Botswana, connecting diamond industry expertise with local skills development.
Building Skills for Botswana’s Diamond Industry
Developing local knowledge and technical expertise is important throughout the diamond value chain. By providing practical exposure to natural rough diamonds and professional evaluation techniques, the programme supports the development of skills relevant to diamond sorting, assessment and manufacturing.
STARGEMS Diamond Training Institute also offers training opportunities in rough diamond valuation, diamond polishing and diamond grading, creating pathways for individuals interested in developing their knowledge of the diamond sector.
As Botswana continues to develop its diamond industry, initiatives that connect education with practical experience play an important role in preparing local talent for specialised roles within the sector.
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Source: Capital FM Kenya and publicly available information from the training institutions.