News

The University of Botswana (UB), through the Centre for Academic Development (CAD), recently hosted a comprehensive Staff Induction and eLearning Training Programme for newly appointed academic staff as part of efforts to strengthen teaching, research and technology-enhanced learning across the institution.

Held from the 16th to 20th March 2026 under the theme Pathways for Success in the University of Botswana, the programme was conducted both virtually and physically at Block 247. It provided a structured platform for new academic staff to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies required to transition effectively into university teaching and professional practice.

The induction component introduced participants to the University’s strategic direction, institutional policies and academic support systems. Sessions covered key areas such as quality assurance, research development, ethics oversight and institutional engagement, helping participants to better understand their roles within UB’s broader academic environment. The programme also drew contributions from several University units, reflecting a collaborative institutional approach to staff development.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Acting Director of the Centre for Academic Development (CAD), Dr Lovie Seru, congratulated participants on successfully completing the programme and commended their commitment to teaching and professional growth. He encouraged them to apply the knowledge and skills gained as they take up their roles in various faculties and departments.

Dr Seru said CAD was positioning itself as a strategic partner in advancing academic excellence beyond being only a teaching and learning support unit. He noted that the Centre aimed at playing a greater role in strengthening staff development, enhancing student learning, promoting evidence-informed innovation and advancing digital and blended learning across the University.

A major highlight of the programme was the eLearning training workshop which focused on building participants’ capacity in digital pedagogy and the effective use of Moodle, locally known as Moithuti, UB’s Learning Management System. The training offered hands-on experience in course design, multimedia integration, online assessment and student engagement strategies, equipping participants to deliver more interactive and learner-centred teaching.

The eLearning sessions were facilitated by Acting Deputy Director for Educational Technology, Dr Dennis Mabalane, together with the Educational Technology Unit team. Through practical demonstrations and guided activities, participants gained confidence in designing structured online courses, applying instructional design principles such as the ADDIE model and using digital tools to enhance teaching and learning.

The programme concluded with a graduation ceremony officiated by Dr Seru, during which participants were awarded certificates for successfully completing both the induction and eLearning training. The ceremony marked an important milestone in preparing academic staff to contribute meaningfully to teaching and learning at the University of Botswana.

The integrated initiative reflects the Centre for Academic Development’s continued commitment to empowering academic staff, fostering innovation and enhancing the quality of teaching and learning at UB.