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In a significant step towards advancing Botswana’s economic development through innovation and research, the University of Botswana (UB) hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on 27th of October 2024, for its new University Innovation Pod (UNIPOD). The ceremony, held in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Botswana International University of Science & Technology (BIUST) and Ministry of Education and Skills Development, promises to establish a pioneering space dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship, technological advancement and industry-ready innovation.

UNDP Resident Representative, Mr Balazs Horvath, underscored UNDP’s commitment to supporting Botswana’s transformation into a knowledge-driven, diversified economy. He explained that the UNIPOD’s facilities would offer early-stage ventures access to design labs, prototyping areas and technology transfer resources, accelerating the path from concept to industry-ready products and services.

“The UNIPOD will provide a physical space for innovative ideas to grow,” said Mr Horvath. “It will enable young entrepreneurs to explore new solutions and gain the support needed to make their concepts market-ready, ultimately benefiting Botswana’s economic landscape.”

UB Vice Chancellor, Professor David Norris, highlighted the University’s dedication to advancing Botswana’s economic and industrial growth through research. He observed that university-led research had a direct, transformative impact on national productivity by promoting knowledge exchange that fuelled economic progress.

“The groundbreaking ceremony of the UNIPOD is a testament to our commitment to elevating Botswana’s economic activity through collaborative research and innovation,” Professor Norris stated. “By bridging academia and industry, we can help shape a more productive and knowledge-based economy.”

Also present at the event, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Education and Skills Development, Ms Elizabeth Bonolo Khumotaka, described the UNIPOD as a symbol of excellence designed to inspire young creative minds. She stressed that the facility would empower Botswana’s youth to tackle pressing issues through collaboration, invention and ownership of their future.

Director of the UB Innovation Centre, Professor Richie Moalosi, highlighted the centre’s goal of fostering an innovative and entrepreneurial ecosystem. The UB Innovation Centre has long collaborated with key industry players, stakeholders and government partners to promote entrepreneurship. He expressed hope that the UNIPOD would create new opportunities for Botswana’s youth thereby facilitating the growth of ideas into viable businesses and solutions.

“Today’s groundbreaking is more than just a ceremony. It marks the beginning of a brighter future for Botswana’s youth and a stronger partnership between academia and industry,” observed Professor Moalosi. He thanked stakeholders for their commitment to advancing Botswana’s economic prospects through innovation.

The UNIPOD is anticipated to drive Botswana closer to becoming a hub for cutting-edge research and entrepreneurial excellence, creating a strong link between higher education institutions and industry. Through this collaborative endeavour, UB, UNDP and other stakeholders aim to build an environment where Botswana’s future innovators can thrive.