UB Hosts Data Protection Commission for National Policy Alignment
The Department of Information and Technology at the University of Botswana (UB) recently hosted Botswana Information & Data Protection at the UB Conference Centre to address National Policy Compliance. The purpose of the gathering was to address the critical issues surrounding information and data protection in Botswana, aligning national standards with international norms while upholding the country’s policies and laws.
In her opening address, UB's Director of Public Affairs, Dr Faith Rapuleng -Tuelo, highlighted the university's role as a custodian of substantial amounts of data and information, emphasising the importance of applying and complying with the Information and Data Protection Act.
Mr Canaan Mathendele, Director of Information and Technology at UB, echoed the same sentiments, highlighting the need to harmonise current practices with regulations to ensure compliance regarding data protection and security.
Commissioner of the Information and Data Protection Commission, Ms Kepaletswe Somolekae, underscored the necessity for Botswana to adhere to international laws, particularly in light of recent updates to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regulations by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
Ms Somolekae stressed the importance of conducting risk assessments related to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing and aligning with principles of privacy and personal data protection outlined in the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Council of Europe Convention.
Deputy Director of EduTech, Dr Alfred Mutanga, highlighted the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to uphold the Data and Information Protection Act and regulations. He reiterated that safeguarding data and information was crucial for Botswana's sovereignty and development, as they are the modern-day currency.
Dr Mutanga closed the session by expressing gratitude to Commissioner Somolekae for her insights on aligning the University with Botswana and international standards of data protection and law.