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In a world where academic pursuits often remain confined to ivory towers, Dr Portia Tshegofatso Loeto stands out as a scholar whose work bridges theory and lived experience. A Gender Studies lecturer at the Department of Educational Foundations, University of Botswana (UB), Dr Loeto was recently awarded a postdoctoral fellowship at Michigan State University through the African Futures Leadership Programme under the Alliance for African Partnership (AAP).

The fellowship programme marks a significant chapter in Dr Loeto’s career where she will be hosted by the Centre for Gender in the Global Context (GenCen). Her research will focus on intimate partner femicide and rape in Botswana, two of the most pressing manifestations of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the country.

Despite legal frameworks, Botswana continues to grapple with high rates of violence against women. Dr Loeto’s research will, therefore, be instrumental in examining systemic barriers in the justice system, cultural norms that perpetuate impunity and limitations in current awareness campaigns. Her goal is to produce evidence-based recommendations that inform legal reform, survivor-centered justice and culturally sensitive public education.

Dr Loeto describes herself as a “conscientious global citizen” but her roots are firmly planted in Botswana. Her academic path began with a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities where early exposure to sociological concepts sparked a deep interest in how culture and power shape human experience. The curiosity evolved into a Master of Education in Gender Studies and culminated in a PhD focused on colorism in Botswana, a subject she explored through the lenses of education, media, religion and family.

Dr Loeto’s work spans gender studies, cultural studies and teacher education. In her teaching, she equips students with tools to recognise and dismantle biases in the classroom. Her approach is both rigorous and compassionate, encouraging students to reflect on their own positionality while engaging with complex social issues. Moreover, her research interrogates the very fabric of Botswana’s social structures, challenging assumptions and advocating for inclusivity.

“Gender Studies is not just an academic pursuit but a tool for social change,” reckons Dr Loeto.

As a lecturer, mentorship is central to her philosophy where she guides young scholars to question dominant narratives, design impactful research and engage ethically with marginalized communities.

“I want to cultivate scholars who are not only academically sound but also committed to advocacy and meaningful change,” she explains.

At Michigan State, Dr Loeto will collaborate with scholars from sociology and gender studies, drawing on global perspectives to enrich her work. This interdisciplinary engagement will not only deepen her research but also strengthen her capacity to contribute to the University of Botswana’s academic and advocacy missions.

She envisions returning with enhanced skills in research, publication and grant writing tools she plans to use to mentor emerging scholars, enrich curricula and support the development of UB’s upcoming Gender Research Centre.