News

In their shared pursuit of becoming leading centres of academic excellence in Africa, the University of Botswana (UB) and Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) have identified key areas for research collaboration and innovation. During a tour of UB’s faculties on the 12th March 2026, the SMU delegation engaged in discussions aimed at exploring strategic partnerships, focusing on practical opportunities for joint research and addressing regional developmental priorities through skilled, professional and community-oriented graduates.

UB Deputy Vice Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Professor Maria Nnyepi, underscored the pivotal role of research in addressing societal and national challenges. She emphasised that universities must prioritise research and innovative excellence to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving knowledge economy. Professor Nnyepi further noted that institutions of higher learning were integral to national development, producing solutions through impactful research outputs that benefited society. She added that the engagement between UB and SMU would help clarify potential areas for collaboration and strengthen joint initiatives grounded in shared institutional values and service-oriented mandates.

Speaking during the visit, SMU Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Research, Acting Professor Dini Mawela, described the engagement as a valuable opportunity for mutual learning and knowledge exchange. She expressed enthusiasm about identifying priority areas for collaboration, highlighting the importance of strengthening regional partnerships and co-creating solutions that advanced academic and research excellence across the continent.

UB Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Enterprise, Professor Doreen Ramogola-Masire, noted that innovative research remained fundamental to knowledge generation and resolution of pressing societal challenges. She underlined the importance of leveraging collaborative platforms to harness shared expertise particularly in areas such as grant acquisition, research administration and interdisciplinary innovation. Professor Ramogola-Masire welcomed the SMU delegation, describing the visit as an important step towards deepening institutional cooperation and expanding opportunities for impactful research outcomes.

SMU Dean of the School of Health Care Sciences, Professor Douglas Maleka, highlighted the transformative potential of the partnership between the two universities. He noted that collaborative research and training initiatives could significantly enhance service delivery in key sectors particularly in health and allied disciplines while also contributing to the development of regional industries.