Ukrainian Ambassador Explores Research Collaboration with Okavango Research Institute
Ukrainian Ambassador to Botswana, His Excellency Dr Oleksiy Syvak, visited the University of Botswana’s Okavango Research Institute (ORI) on the 11th of June 2025 to explore potential avenues for research collaboration between ORI and Ukrainian institutions.
The visit was at the invitation of the University’s Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Enterprise, Professor Doreen Ramogola-Masire and the aim was to explore potential avenues for collaboration between ORI and research institutions in Ukraine. Dr Syvak indicated that ORI and University of Botswana could benefit from such partnerships by drawing on Ukraine’s experience in resource mobilisation and research management.
He further noted that Ukrainian scientists had expressed keen interest in studying the Okavango Delta, offering expertise in biodiversity, agriculture, geology and biology.
Welcoming the proposed collaboration, ORI Director said it had the potential to support the institute’s infrastructure needs while also strengthening local capacity with external expertise.
Professor Ramogola-Masire expressed appreciation for the Ambassador’s visit, stating that collaboration with the Ukrainian Embassy aligned with the University’s objective of meaningful engagement that drives economic impact and addresses societal challenges.
Dr Syvak concluded his visit with a tour of ORI’s facilities including the chemistry and biology laboratories.