News

The University of Botswana (UB) held a colorful send-off ceremony on the 3rd of September 2026, at the Admin Block Committee Room 306 to bid farewell to Team UB as they prepare to represent the institution and the nation at the 12th Federation of Africa University Sports (FASU) Africa University Games. The prestigious continental games will take place in Cairo, Egypt, from the 8th to the 16th of September 2026.

The delegation comprises 14 members including student-athletes competing across Karate, Athletics, Chess, and Tennis, led by Team Manager, Nelson Bodilenyane (Manager of Culture, Sports and Recreation) alongside dedicated coaching staff.

In her welcome remarks, Director of Student Life and Experience, Dr Barbara Pansiri, commended the team on reaching this significant milestone. She highlighted the University’s commitment to expanding student engagement beyond traditional academic routines. “We are looking forward to expanding into more areas of sports and art,” noted Dr. Pansiri, emphasising that the dedication shown by the students in balancing rigorous classroom studies with intense daily training was truly inspiring.

Delivering the main send-off address and official flag hand-over, Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Teaching and Learning (DVCTL), Professor Maria Nnyepi, offered heartfelt words of encouragement to the departing athletes. “I want you to win but what is more primary is that I want you to experience,” said Prof. Nyepi, noting that “winning those medals is the cherry on top, but allow yourselves to grow, absorb, explore and learn.”

Professor Nnyepi further reminded the athletes that they were participating at the games as ambassadors of the University of Botswana as well as the country. “When they look at you, they are not just looking at athletes but at Botswana. Carry this opportunity with responsibility. Be respectful of other cultures, portray yourselves well and listen to your coaches. Go well, do the best that you can and I want you back in one piece,” she advised.

Responding on behalf of the athletes, FASU Team UB Captain, Mr Philimon Mabika, expressed gratitude for the University leadership’s guidance and assured Management of the team's readiness. “We are not traveling as individuals. We are going as ambassadors. We are ready to compete, challenge ourselves, and give our very best to carry the name of the university high’, he stated.

Delivering the vote of thanks, SRC Minister of Sports and Recreation, Thabo Keeme, commended the athletes for their unwavering dedication and resilience despite unfavourable economic challenges.

“Remember where you come from. You carry a badge in your heart and a flag on your shoulders. Go and make the University and the country proud. You have our full support, our prayers, and we are going to rally behind you all the way,” he said.

The event concluded with the official hand-over of the UB and Botswana flags, signaling Team UB's official readiness to fly the Botswana flag high in Cairo as poignant reminder that the delegation carries not only the pride of UB but also the hopes, unity and the identity of the entire nation on the continental stage.