News

The University of Botswana (UB) hosted a Research and Innovation Stakeholder Engagement Meeting on the 20th of August 2025, bringing together representatives from academia, government, industry and the wider community to explore collaborative opportunities and align research initiatives with Botswana’s national development priorities.

The purpose of the meeting was to foster partnerships, exchange innovative ideas and strengthen the University’s role as a catalyst for sustainable growth and technological advancement.

Welcoming participants, Director of the Office of Research and Development (ORD), Ms Kimberly Cornfield, highlighted the institution’s dedication to research and innovation. She emphasised UB’s commitment to “stimulating a vibrant research culture that drives innovation and addresses societal challenges.”

Ms Cornfield also gave an overview of UB’s key policies and strategic frameworks, outlining initiatives that support interdisciplinary collaboration, capacity building and the commercialisation of research outcomes. Her remarks underscored the importance of stakeholder engagement in advancing the University’s mission to contribute meaningfully to Botswana’s socio-economic development.

Representing the Ministry of Communications and Innovation, Ms Tebogo Tseetse presented an overview of the national research agenda which prioritises digital infrastructure, telecommunications and information technology to encourage sustainable growth and global competitiveness. She stressed the importance of coordinated research efforts.

“This coordinated approach facilitates resource sharing, avoids duplication of efforts and accelerates the translation of research findings into practical applications that benefit society as a whole,” she stated.

Various ministries also shared their experiences with research and innovation, outlining successful approaches while identifying challenges such as limited funding, capacity constraints and data accessibility gaps. They proposed solutions including strengthened partnerships, enhanced training programmes and improved resource mobilisation. Ministries further expressed their expectation for UB to continue providing research expertise, capacity building, technical support and innovation-driven solutions to address national challenges.

Closing the session, UB Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation, Professor Doreen Ramogola-Masire, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders.

“Your collaboration and insights are vital to advancing the University of Botswana’s mission to drive impactful research and innovation. Together, we can promote a vibrant ecosystem that addresses our community’s challenges and creates sustainable solutions. I look forward to continued partnerships and shared successes as we move forward,” she added.