UB Courts Debswana Diamond Company - Orapa Mine for Collaboration
In a move geared towards fostering collaboration between academia and the mining industry, a delegation from the University of Botswana (UB) recently embarked on a fact-finding mission to Debswana Diamond Company’s Orapa mine. The visit provided a unique opportunity for both parties to engage in constructive dialogue, share insights, and identify potential areas of collaboration for mutually beneficial partnerships.
The collaborative efforts aim to leverage the UB’s academic expertise in areas such as research projects to address specific challenges, innovative technologies to improve mining processes. Also for consideration, were student attachments and study programmes that could enhance the skills of future professionals entering the mining industry as well as aligning education with the mining industry needs.
In his address to mine officials, UB Vice Chancellor, Professor David Norris, underscored the importance for universities forging partnerships with industry as means to sustaining the economy and enhancing livelihoods. He emphasised the pivotal role of building such collaborations geared towards propelling innovation and economic growth.
“We need to move across the whole value chain, when we conduct research, technology transfer, product development, commercialisation and production,” added Professor Norris.
Adding to the discourse, Orapa Mine General Manager, Mr Mogakolodi Maoketsa, highlighted that the University could play a significant role in areas such contractor and project management skills training, conducting research on gender balance within the mining ecosystem, exploring new technologies and innovation as well as addressing sustainability issues.
During subsequent site visits, the delegation was afforded the opportunity to tour the mine facilities, gaining insights into extraction processes and engaging in discussions with on-site experts. The itinerary also included a visit to the Adrian - Gale Diamond Museum, which categorically tells the story of the rich history of diamond mining in Botswana.