DEF Doubles Support for Botswana Top Achievers Program

(IDEX Online News) – The Diamond Empowerment Fund (DEF) has doubled its initial allocation of support for the “Top Achievers Program” in Botswana with a $100,000 grant.

The program, which marks a partnership between DEF and Botswana’s Ministry of Education, is designed to allow talented students the chance to study at the university of their choice before returning to contribute to Botswana’s economic, social and political development.

“This gift is a commitment from us to empower African youth and further Botswana’s vision of a thriving economy built on the responsible use of its natural resources to benefit its people,” said Russell Simmons, DEF co-founder and advisory board chair.

Speaking about the grant, Varda Shine, CEO of the DTC and the DEF’s governing board member said the fund, “clearly understands that access to education and incubation of future leaders leads to sustained progress, economic growth and prosperity.”

Linah Moholo, governor of the Bank of Botswana and a member of the DEF’s advisory board said, “Affording these young, talented students the opportunity to be exposed to rigorous curriculum focused on development, macro-economics, political theory and social entrepreneurship will further the growth in our country for generations.”

As well as the Top Achievers Program, DEF also supports two other education institutions, the CIDA City Campus and the African Leadership Academy. CIDA City Campus is a business college in Johannesburg, South Africa, that is free to attendees as long as they return to their native villages and teach for a period after graduation.

The African Leadership Academy, a university preparatory school in Johannesburg, draws students from all 54 countries in Africa, and emphasizes leadership skills, African History, and entrepreneurial skills. DEF provides scholarships to all students from diamond-producing nations.