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The University of Botswana (UB) is making significant strides in its mission to foster a knowledge-based economy through cutting-edge research and innovation. Recently, UB hosted two pivotal workshops aimed at reinforcing its commitment to transforming Botswana into a high-income knowledge-based society. The events marked a major milestone in UB's strategy to enhance research quality, drive innovation as well as achieve national and global impact.

On the 25th of July 2024, UB held an interactive workshop titled “Enabling Research to Commercialisation – A Paradigm Shift from a Resource to Knowledge-Based Economy.” The workshop was designed to explore and affirm the role of universities in enabling Botswana's innovation ecosystem. The session gathered a diverse group of stakeholders from academia, government, private sector and society, collectively affirming the critical role universities play in shifting the economy from resource dependency to knowledge-based growth.

During the workshop, participants discussed the development of a sustainable Research to Commercialisation System (R2CS) at UB which is set to pave the way for significant economic transformation. The R2CS aims at repositioning UB as a key player in Botswana’s transition by enhancing its focus on research and commercialization.

Deputy Vice Chancellor of Research and Enterprise, Professor Doreen Ramogola-Masire, who spearheaded the workshops, underscored the importance of stakeholder engagement and adoption of the R2CS framework. The event was marked by enthusiastic participation and meaningful discussions, with participants providing valuable insights that will inform future policy and strategy developments.

Highlights from the presentations by R2CS partners, including Koya Capital and the World Bank Botswana Country Representative, emphasised several key points. A crucial element for effective change is a shift in mindset and execution while research and development are essential drivers of economic productivity and the transition to a knowledge-based economy.

Further, universities play a vital role in enabling innovation systems through research and commercialisation in that a robust National System of Innovation, aligned with R2CS, is necessary for building a strong foundation for long-term sustainability. Collaboration among government, private sector and educational institutions, guided by the spirit of Ubuntu, is crucial for driving the call to action.

The discussions continued into the second workshop, held from the 29th to 30th August 2024, titled “Reimagining, Reinvigorating the University of Botswana Research and Innovation Enterprise: Building Robust Structures and Systems through Policies and Strategy Implementation.” The purpose of the workshop was to delve deeper into the policies and strategies required to support the R2CS framework, focusing on the Research and Innovation Policy, Intellectual Property Policy as well as the necessary strategy and implementation plans.

The objectives of the workshop included highlighting the importance of policies and their alignment with national goals. The workshop was aimed at clarifying the roles of key stakeholders such as UB, government, researchers and the private sector. It sought to educate participants on essential policy elements and successful implementation strategies. Further, the workshop showcased the future of research, with a focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in economic transformation. An interactive, consultative process was facilitated to gather diverse feedback and insights.

The workshop entailed a range of engaging formats, including guest speakers, panel discussions on overcoming innovation barriers, digital quizzes as well as group discussions. Notably, a panel discussion on the “Valley of Death” addressed the main challenges of discontinued innovation such as lack of funding and support.