News

In its continued drive to redirected Botswana towards industrialization of its economy, the University of Botswana through the Department of Industrial Design and Technology hosted this year’s annual Degree under the theme - Design and Enterprise Development: A key to Economic Diversification.

Speaking at the Show held at the UB Campus Indoor Sports Centre on July 26,2023, Assistant Minister of Education and Skills Development, Ms Nnaniki Makwinja said the theme resonated with Botswana’s Vision 2036 pillar of achieving prosperity for all through transformation and innovation for sustainable economic development. It showcases innovative prototypes, products and services designed and developed by final year Design and Technology and Industrial Design students. Most importantly, it offers designers and excellent networking environment with potential employers, investors and industry.

Ms Makwinja noted that such efforts edified the creation of a knowledge-based economy and development of Botswana’s manufacturing and service sectors. The Assistant Minister further observed that the first-generation prototypes on display were a gateway to scalable enterprises, growing the manufacturing industry and additionally contributing to Botswana’s Gross Domestic Products.

Delivering his keynote address, Okavango Diamond Company Managing Director, Mr Mmetla Masire, underscored the importance of mindset change achieving success. Mr Masire said such an alignment at individual level elevated to company level which underpins Vision 2036 and attainment of its ideals. He said alignment to Vision 2036 was key and encouraged Industrial Design students to play an active part in making sure the vision was realised. He added that the prototypes were a clear indication of the available opportunities in the manufacturing and production sectors.

In his welcome remarks, Vice Chancellor, Professor David Norris, highlighted that such events bore testimony to the creative minds of students brimming with ideas fuelled by curiosity and the desire to push boundaries of conventional thinking. Professor Norris expressed his delight, stating that the prototypes had the potential to solve the needs of Small Medium Enterprises and resource challenged small-scale farmers.

Meanwhile, the best design prototype prize went to Mr Ompatile Malobela, who was awarded a scholarship by the Vice Chancellor to pursue a master’s degree programme at UB. Mr Licon Magosi took position two, while third positions went to Mr Botho Chabaditsile. The criteria for judging was to identify the most viable prototype with societal impact, appealing aesthetics, functionality as well as sustainability.