The 7th annual graduation ceremony of the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) was a grand and momentous occasion, characterized by a palpable sense of achievement and pride. The theme of the event, "producing innovative graduates and technological solutions for sustainable development," encapsulated the forward-looking ethos of the university and set the stage for the celebration of academic excellence and the promise of impactful contributions to society.   Amidst an atmosphere brimming with anticipation and reverence, 248 students were honored for their remarkable accomplishments, as they received diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate qualifications across a diverse spectrum of subjects related to agriculture and natural resources. Each graduate's journey represented a unique narrative of dedication, perseverance, and intellectual growth, culminating in this significant milestone. Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele, the esteemed Vice-Chancellor of BUAN, delivered an impassioned address, underscoring the university's unwavering commitment to pioneering research and innovation in the domains of agricultural and natural resource management. His words resonated with the audience, illuminating the profound impact of BUAN's educational philosophy in shaping graduates poised to assume leadership roles and effect positive change within their respective fields.    The distinguished presence of government officials, academic luminaries, and industry leaders lent an air of gravitas to the proceedings, affirming BUAN's pivotal role in addressing Botswana's agricultural challenges and championing causes such as food security, sustainable development, and economic growth. The esteemed Slumber Tsogwane, Vice President of Botswana and Chancellor of BUAN, articulated the transformative potential harbored by agricultural graduates, emphasizing their role as catalysts for revitalizing the nation's agricultural economy.    Mr. Cross Kgosidiile, the esteemed Managing Director of the Botswana Development Corporation (BDC), offered effusive praise for the graduation theme and extended his heartfelt congratulations to the class of 2024. His words reverberated with a profound sense of optimism and pride, as he lauded the graduates for their instrumental role in pioneering innovative and technological solutions within the realms of agriculture and natural resources, aimed at fostering sustainable development.    The ceremony also served as a platform to celebrate the outstanding research projects undertaken by the graduates, which spanned critical areas such as climate-smart agriculture, sustainable animal farming, and agricultural entrepreneurship. Special accolades were bestowed upon students who demonstrated exemplary academic and leadership prowess, further underscoring the graduating cohort’s depth of talent and dedication.    Petros Khundu, the valedictorian, delivered a moving address that encapsulated the collective spirit of resilience, creativity, and aspiration that defined the graduating class. His eloquent words resonated with a sense of hope and possibility, as he urged his peers to embark on their professional journeys with a steadfast commitment to innovation and community welfare, recognizing the intrinsic link between agricultural prosperity and individual success.  As the ceremony drew to a close, the resounding message of hope, progress, and collective achievement reverberated throughout the hallowed halls of BUAN. The institution's unwavering commitment to nurturing agricultural leaders and innovators, dedicated to enhancing the livelihoods of Batswana through science, technology, and sustainable practices, shone brightly amidst the jubilant celebrations of the graduates' remarkable achievements.

Celebrating Excellence: Boitumelo Primary School's Annual Prize-Giving Ceremony The annual prize-giving ceremony at Boitumelo Primary School was a joyous and lively celebration of student achievement, filled with radiant smiles and enthusiastic cheers from proud parents. Boitumelo Primary School, a beacon of academic excellence, was delighted to have the support of Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, which graciously sponsored the event. The prize-giving arena buzzed with excitement as students, adorned in their school uniforms, filled the space. Teachers, administrators, and community members came together to honor students who had excelled in academics. The ceremony started with a heartfelt welcome from the principal, who emphasized the values of hard work, resilience, and community support. Awards were presented in various categories, recognizing everything from outstanding academic performance to exemplary behavior among peers. Each recipient's name reverberated throughout the arena, accompanied by thunderous applause and words of encouragement. Beyond the tangible rewards, the event served as a poignant reminder of the collective effort needed to nurture a child’s academic growth. The principal expressed deep gratitude for the vital partnership between parents, schools, and the local community, affirming, "Education is truly a team effort. When parents and schools work hand in hand, children thrive." He also highlighted the crucial role played by the local community in shaping the academic journey of the students. Businesses, local organizations, and volunteers were acknowledged for their valuable contributions, including resources, funding, and mentorship opportunities that enrich the educational experience. During the ceremony, special recognition was given to BUAN for their sponsorship of the school’s prize giving ceremony. Additionally, BUAN hosts an annual field trip for Boitumelo Primary School students to visit their farms, fostering hands-on learning experiences. BUAN affirmed its commitment to continuing the collaborative efforts with Boitumelo Primary School, pledging to provide ongoing support to ensure that every child not only achieves academic success but also blossoms into a well-rounded individual prepared to take on the world.

Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL) has five member countries in Southern Africa namely Angola, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Zambia, with the regional office at Namibia. The countries work jointly with Germany, under the German Ministry of Education and Research  which funds the programmes under SASSCAL. The organisation was establshed to address challenges of global change in Southern Africa.   September 18, 2024 marked start of the first day of the 2 day programme of the 'SASSCAL Graduate Studies Programme - Integrated Water Resources Managemt (SGSP- IWRM)' Stakeholder Promotional and Visibility  Engagement Programme. Day one of the programme was held at UB Conference and day 2 morning session at UB Campus while second session was held at BUAN, CICE Auditoriam in the afternoon. The purpose of the workshop was capacity building as well as to promote the SASSCAL Graduate Studies Programme to solicit prospects for the 2025 cohort of students.    The delegates were welcomed by Dean of Faculty of Science, Prof Moffat Setshogo on behalf of UB management. He briefly highlighted the background of SASSCAL and its meaningful progress to Africa and the region as well as being proud of role his institution was playing in the programe. He acknowledged the partners and the contributions they are making and encouraged all delegates to take advantage of the knowledge sharing and collaborations.    Mr Balizi Gopolang, SASSCAL Board Chairperson and also one of the first drivers of SASSCAL in the country also welcomed delegates on behalf of Ministry of Environment and Tourism. He state that SASSCAL is a very instrumental organ. He challenged all to make partnerships and collaboration instead of doing research in silos. He pledged Government support to SASSCAL projects to ensure thst they are well resourced to tackle the initiatives.    The Director of SGSP – IWRM based in Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), Prof Awofolu Omotayo gave an overview of the Programme. He stated the aims for the SGSP- IWRM as follows: •?  ?To increase number of highly qualified IWRM experts and knowledge by providing scholarships to excellent PHD students •?  ?To provide a platform within SASSCAL memmber countries  for knowledge sharing, policy development and advice  •?  ?To promote innovation in interdisciplinaryeducation and research •?  ?To develop and accredit PHD curriculum in IWRM •?  ?To transfer the know how by offering tailor made short courses and training to practitioners •?  ?To support the internationalization of research and human capacity development.   The programme has four thematic areas of focus being water and wastewater systems and technology; water security under climate and environmental changes; hydrology and geohydrology; and sustainable water, energy and food security.   Dr Botlhe Matlhodi, the SASSCAL Programmes Coordinator in Botswana also gave a brief presentation outline on SASSCAL and the student graduate programme, while Prof Piet Kenabatho , the Deputy Chairperson of SGSP-IWRM ASAC, presented on Botswana’s involvement in the SGSP – IWRM Programme. The three PhD Candidates currently under the programme, and the first Batswana to be enrolled in the programme then presented what their researches entailed. Prof Ditiro Moalofhi, the Research Chairperson of the SGSP- IWRM Programme gave a presentation on the role  and objectives of the Chairperson potfolio in contribution to the programme.   On the 19th of September, 2024, opportunities ans future prospects,  were presented to both staff and graduates students of UB and BUAN. The three PhD candidates also has a chance to share their very insightful expriences as well as challenges in the programme.