News

As industries evolve at an unprecedented pace with technological advancements reshaping the professional landscape, the University of Botswana’s (UB) Department of Biology is taking proactive steps to prepare students for the future. The Department recently hosted a Networking and Career Bridging Workshop designed to connect Biology students with industry professionals and expose them to diverse career opportunities.

During the workshop, Biological Sciences Lecturer, Professor Sununguko Wata Mpoloka, highlighted the importance of fostering knowledge exchange between students and experts. Professor Mpoloka noted that such interactions provided a valuable platform for sharing experiences, demonstrating real-world applications of biological sciences as well as expanding students’ professional networks.

The workshop brought together seasoned professionals from various scientific institutions, each offering insights into the evolving industry landscape and the skills required to stay competitive.

Among the key speakers was Mr Kefentse Arnold Tumedi, a researcher at the Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI) and an expert in Recombinant DNA Technology and Whole Genome Sequencing. Mr Tumedi noted the increasing demand for professionals with hybrid skills, urging students to diversify their expertise by integrating Biology with Computing and Programming. He noted that such a combination enhanced one’s adaptability in research and technical fields, ultimately boosting employability.

Mr Elliot Fana, a Forensic Scientist and Lab Manager at the Botswana Vaccine Institute’s (BVI) Foot and Mouth Disease Reference Lab, encouraged students to align their career paths with national needs. He pointed out the critical shortage of veterinary professionals in Botswana, underscoring the need for more research and expertise in animal vaccine development. Mr Fana urged students to explore research-driven careers that could contribute to the country's scientific and industrial growth.

From the agricultural sector, Mrs Boitumelo Modise-Tlotleng, a Senior Researcher at the National Agricultural Research and Development Institute (NARDI), underlined the importance of research in advancing Botswana’s agricultural industry. She advised students to actively seek internships, attachments and volunteer opportunities to gain hands-on experience and exposure to emerging industry demands.

The workshop also featured insights from Ms Phatshimo Matshediso, an Associate Researcher at BITRI, Analytical Chemist and founder of Phatsima Organic. Ms Matshediso shared her entrepreneurial journey which stemmed from her Master’s research on the effects of Moringa Oleifera on the human immune system. The study, conducted prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, became the foundation for a thriving business in immune-boosting products. Her success story served as an inspiration for students to think beyond traditional employment paths and explore entrepreneurial ventures based on scientific research