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University of Botswana (UB) UniPod and Mafikeng Digital Innovation Hub (MDiHub) entered into a formal partnership to advance innovation, technology transfer as well as entrepreneurship across Botswana and South Africa’s North West region. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed on the 9th of December 2025, laid the groundwork for coordinated programmes scheduled to begin in January 2026.

In his address during the signing ceremony, UB Vice Chancellor, Professor David Norris, underscored the urgency for Africa to take an active and assertive role in technological advancement. He noted that the continent did not meaningfully participate in the second or third industrial revolutions and therefore could not afford to miss opportunities of the current technological era, one driven by the internet, data, knowledge and advanced digital capabilities.

The collaboration between the two parties will operate such that the two institutions will jointly design and deliver initiatives that respond to national development priorities, industry needs and emerging technological trends. Additionally, instead of operating in isolation, UniPod and MDiHub will pool expertise, facilities and networks to improve access to specialised training, research opportunities and market oriented innovation support.

Adding to the conversation, MDiHub and 4IR Commissioner, Mr Joseph Ndaba, pointed out the urgency for African institutions to collaborate meaningfully and translate agreements into measurable impact. He noted that Africa’s youth demographic and rising global interest presented a strategic advantage that must be actively leveraged through joint innovation initiatives.

Furthermore, Mr Ndaba stated that the new collaboration focused on implementation, developing African solutions to African challenges and reducing graduate unemployment through practical 4IR skills, business development as well as early stage venture creation.

“It’s one thing to sign an MOU; it’s another to create real impact. This partnership must help us turn ideas into businesses and ensure our graduates don’t leave university unemployed.” emphasised Mr Ndaba.

For his part, UniPod Director, Professor Richie Moalosi, highlighted the UniPod’s role in tackling youth unemployment by providing practical avenues for innovation, entrepreneurship and skills development. He noted that the hub supported both students and members of the public, incubating a wide range of startups from agritech to digital solutions.

He stressed that the new partnership would bring vital expertise in AI and digital skills which were essential for upskilling unemployed graduates and helping young people develop market-ready products and businesses.