News

University of Botswana (UB) is set to renew and deepen its partnership with the University of Newcastle, Australia, as part of its broader vision to transform into a 4th generation university focused on research, innovation and socio-economic impact.

This was revealed during a high-level meeting led by Vice Chancellor, Professor David Norris and a visiting delegation that included Professor Emeritus Terence Lovat of the University of Newcastle, Professor Nazreen Dasoo of the University of Johannesburg and UNESCO Chair on Values Education as well as representatives from the Botswana National Commission for UNESCO.

Speaking at the meeting, Professor Norris underscored UB’s commitment to expanding its research output and impact, noting that the university aimed to play a catalytic role in Botswana’s development. “The University of Botswana intends to transform into a 4th generation institution of higher learning, enhancing Botswana’s economic growth and prosperity,” he said, adding that collaboration with international institutions was key to realising this goal.

A central item on the agenda was the revival of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UB and University of Newcastle. The renewed partnership is expected to foster joint research, academic exchanges, and innovation that supports national development priorities

Professor Dasoo of the University of Johannesburg welcomed the idea of a three-way collaboration among the University of Botswana, University of Newcastle and University of Johannesburg. She cited ongoing initiatives such as the “Africa by Bus” student exchange programme as examples of experiential learning and cross-continental engagement. “I am delighted to see institutions coming together like this,” she said, highlighting opportunities for multidisciplinary collaboration across faculties.

Echoing the same sentiments, Professor Lovat called for the revitalisation of the UB-Newcastle MoU, saying it was time to “enhance research of an emerging Africa.” He pledged Newcastle’s commitment to supporting UB through academic development and skills transfer particularly within the framework of the Australia Africa Universities Network (AAUN).

Also present was Mr Itseng Kwelagobe, Secretary General of the Botswana National Commission for UNESCO, who stressed the importance of human capital development in Botswana’s journey toward a knowledge-based economy. He said partnerships like this were essential for upskilling educators and supporting national capacity building.

Wrapping up the engagement, UB Acting Dean of the Faculty of Education, Professor Kgomotso Garegare, expressed readiness on the part of UB to implement the outcomes of the meeting. “Our departments are eager to begin working on the objectives of this collaboration,” he said, affirming that the university was prepared to drive the initiative forward.