22 Sep 2024

The Acting President, Mr Slumber Tsogwane says the role played by Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) in advancing the realisation of a knowledge-based economy is undeniably evident.

Mr Tsogwane was speaking during the class of 2024 BIUST graduation ceremony in Palapye on Friday. A total of 335 graduates were conferred on different academic disciplines including Science, Engineering and Technology and from that number,  267 were undergraduates and 68 postgraduates.

He said since inception, the institution had produced over 2 840 graduates, fully equipped with market-relevant skills.

Mr Tsogwane said to realise the aspirations outlined in Vision 2036, the concept of mindset change initiated by President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi must find resonance in the heart and mind of all graduates.

Consequently, he said, President Masisi’s administration was steadfast in the commitment to scrutinise and review existing policies, legal frameworks and regulatory structures.

“This critical examination aims at identifying and eliminating any barriers hindering the seamless integration of innovation and technology into our national fabric,’’ he said.

Mr Tsogwane said academic institutions such as BIUST served as catalysts in fostering the production of goods and services destined for export markets and the promotion of an export-driven economy.

Central to the achievement, he said, was recognition and appreciation by the class of 2024 of individual and collective potential to significantly contribute to the transformation of the nation’s business and economic landscape.

‘’Your knowledge, skills and innovative spirit are invaluable assets in propelling Botswana toward greater economic diversification and global competitiveness. As you embark on your respective journey beyond BIUST academic halls, I urge you to embrace your roles as agents of change and champions of progress,’’ he said.

However, he said, government had made substantial investments in the university as it hosts some of the national projects, such as the Botswana Satellite or BOTSAT-1 Project which was launched in November 2022 and was expected to provide the much-needed solutions to the lives of Batswana and that entrepreneurs could leverage on the satellite data to develop innovative services and solutions.

Another national project was the Crop Management System for Temo Letlotlo which was developed by a diverse and dedicated group comprising a team of 20 Batswana, staff, students and BIUST Alumni. The system marks a transformative shift in the way government services are delivered to farmers across the country.

He urged the graduates to continuously seek new knowledge and skills to adapt to the ever-evolving demands of the global economy.

The Minister of Education and Skills Development, Dr Douglas Letsholathebe urged the graduates to embrace entrepreneurial excellence. He encouraged them to be the leaders who bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application, driving forward industries with fresh ideas and cutting-edge solutions.

 “Your skills are not just a personal asset but a national treasure that will help propel Botswana towards greater heights,’’ he said.

BIUST Vice Chancellor, Professor Otlogetswe Totolo said he had no doubt that the graduates would make their mark in ways that reflect the spirit of discovery and progress that BIUST represents.

Professor Totolo said academia had equipped the graduates with critical thinking skills, understanding of entrepreneurial principles and the ability to carry out meaningful research. He assured them that the industry was ready for them and they should in turn apply their knowledge and be innovative.