News

Japan’s artificial intelligence company, AIBOS, has expressed interest in collaborating with the University of Botswana’s (UB) UNIPOD to advance youth driven innovation and technology development in Botswana.

A delegation from AIBOS recently met with the UNIPOD representatives and engaged on discussions that focused on identifying practical ways to connect Botswana’s young innovators with global networks and real world technology projects.

Speaking at meeting, AIBOS International Development Manager, Mr Nate Hasegawa, indicated that the student led development model, engaged university students in solving real world challenges. He added that AIBO was founded in Kyoto by five (5) university students, with the objective of bridging the gap between young talent and access to impactful technological initiatives.

Furthermore, Mr Hasegawa suggested that instead of outsourcing work, AIBOS assigned projects from its network of alumni, many of whom now lead their own tech companies to student teams.

Moreover, he said the organisation had established a branch in Uganda where students from Makerere University were developing technology solutions for the Japanese government under the model.

Hasegawa also highlighted that Africa was a growing potential in global technology development, emphasising the need to recognise local youth as capable innovators.

“Africa is full of talented young developers. What’s important is understanding their ambitions and enabling them to define the problems they want to solve,” he said.

Meanwhile, Unipod Director, Professor Richie Moalosi, shared insights into the center’s role in nurturing entrepreneurship and supporting student led startups.  He said the UNIPOD provided infrastructure for market research, business development and investor connections while also hosting labs for prototyping, textile innovation and multimedia production.

He noted that mentorship and collaboration remained central to UNIPOD’s mission, with existing partnerships involving NASA and MIT.