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BW PSLE Social Studies study materials
BW PSLE Social Studies study resources

BW PSLE Social Studies: Economic and Development Studies

BW PSLE Social Studies · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.

All guide sections

Economic and Development Studies

Core Economic Concepts

You must understand economic sectors (primary, secondary, tertiary), resources (diamonds, cattle, tourism), development indicators (GDP, HDI, literacy), trade, and development challenges (unemployment, inequality, dependence on diamonds). Know Botswana's economic transformation from a poor, cattle-based economy to a middle-income country driven by diamond mining. Also understand sustainable development and diversification.

Common Traps

  • Assuming diamonds alone brought development: Good governance and prudent management of diamond revenues were crucial.
  • Confusing GDP with HDI: GDP measures output; HDI includes health and education.
  • Ignoring inequality: Botswana has high income inequality despite economic growth.
  • Overlooking diversification efforts: Tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing are being promoted.

Worked Example

Question: Explain how Botswana used diamond revenues to promote development. Answer: Diamond revenues were managed through careful fiscal policies, investing in infrastructure, education, and health. The government avoided excessive borrowing and maintained a stable economy. However, reliance on diamonds remains a risk, so diversification is encouraged.

Rule of Thumb

Remember D-I-V-E-R-S-I-F-Y: Diversification, Infrastructure, Value addition, Education, Rural development, Sustainability, Investment, Finance, and Youth employment.