29 August, 2024
Vision 2036 Commemoration
On August 29, 2024, the National Planning Commission joined forces with BUAN to host the Vision 2036 Commemoration. This momentous occasion celebrated the strides made in realizing the national vision while fostering understanding and support for it within the wider community. The event was graced by the esteemed presence of the Honorable Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Fidelis Molao, and the esteemed BUAN Vice Chancellor, Prof Ketlhatlogile Mosepele gave a public lecture. One of the highlights was a stimulating roundtable discussion centered around the theme: "Implementing the National Transformation Strategy (NTS) by Leveraging on Research, Science, Technology, and Innovation to Grow the Agriculture and Natural Resources Sectors: The Case of BUAN." To relive the enriching moments of this extraordinary event, simply click on the link below: https://lnkd.in/dacTTc7U hashtag#Vision2036 hashtag#NationalPlanningCommission hashtag#BUAN hashtag#Agriculture hashtag#Innovation
22 August, 2024
BUAN’s collaborative efforts in Zimbabwe
University collaborations are essential for availing opportunities for both the community and the institution for research and learning. Through partnerships, universities can leverage shared experiences and best practices to achieve superior outcomes in teaching and research. Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele emphasized that academic consortia significantly boost the chances of success in teaching and research. Institutions can tap into a wealth of knowledge and resources by forming alliances, fostering innovation, and improving educational outcomes. BUAN has established a strong partnership with the University of Zimbabwe, which boasts a diverse range of faculties, including Agriculture, Environment and Food Systems, and Veterinary Science. This collaboration presents immediate opportunities for joint research and educational initiatives. BUAN is also pursuing a partnership with Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology. Professor Mosepele highlighted the potential synergies between these institutions, envisioning them as a powerful force for enhancing food production systems in both Botswana and Zimbabwe, ultimately benefiting the regional populace. This collaboration is crucial for BUAN as it seeks to establish a veterinary science program. BUAN and its partner institutions have committed to mutual support, drawing on their collective experiences to ensure the program's success. The excitement surrounding these partnerships reflects a shared commitment to excellence in education and research. By working together, these universities are positioned to contribute to their communities significantly and the broader region, driving positive change and improving livelihoods through enhanced educational and research outcomes. The collaborative spirit is expected to yield impactful results, demonstrating the power of academic partnerships in addressing societal challenges.
19 August, 2024
BUAN ATTENDS MINDSET CHANGE ANNIVERSARY
Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) was one of the partners who attended the Mindset Change Anniversary in Seronga on the 15th August 2024 under the theme 'Itsholelo yame; boikarabelo jwame, isago ya rona'. Our Acting Vice Chancellor, Mrs Rebecca Mgadla graced the occasion. The main reason of BUAN participation is to offer expertise in the best Ideathon of the project has an agriculture or natural resources aspect. Different districts attended the anniversary showcasing their best ideathons. In his welcome remarks Kgosi Maeze B. Maeze thanked His Excellency, the President of Republic of Botswana, Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi. He said Seronga was privileged, by God's grace to have His Excellency in their village to attend the Anniversary of "Are Chengeng". He highlighted the importance of change in the district for sustainability purposes. Moruti Isaac Ncana explained the purpose of the mindset change: reset agenda and highlighted the following best project idea thons from the Okavango district: 1. Human and wildlife conflict 2. Letlhaka 3. Manoko 4. basketry 5. Bio gas For the National address, His Excellency the President of the Republic of Botswana, Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi informed the attendants and viewers that the Mindset Change was launched in Zutswa in July 2022 and the purpose for the anniversary was to look back and find how far we have come from, the achievements as well as looking forward into the future. Just to highlight a few of the changes; 1.Digitalisation- the country can now connect to watch the live the proceedings in Seronga digitally 2. Improved roads and infrastructure 3. Tendering processes 4. 10 bulls in each village of the 4 villages in Okavango instead of the 4 like other villages. In the future, Okavango will be made a Centre of Excellence in livestock in issues of AI and curbing foot and mouth He challenged all to change their mindsets on how they do and see things in order for the country to successfully reach vision 2036."We cannot reach 2036 if we do things the same way.We were slow, hence we need to ask ourselves what we need to change to increase results. We need to take necessary and deliberate steps to reach 2036"; he said. Ne le seo re le teng..gotwe Koloi tsedi brand new tsa Sepodise ko; #Seronga koloi pha #Beetsha poo #Gudigwa ngwaa His Excellency went on to state that just one the 13th August 2924; the whole country welcomed Tebogo Letsile and team Botswana from Paris Olympics 2024. He further stated that Botswana nearly had 2 gold medals as the 4x400m was out run with just 10 milli seconds and hence was something to be happy about as the whole of Africa was cheering us on. He went to explain that preparation of 2028 Olympics were already ongoing. For his last remarks, he said"Mongwe le mongwe a iketiye ka thupana go ira maduo a mantle a phepha". He urged all to look for better high future doing all for oneself and tge country, as well as to support each other and to take care of people living with disabilities and the elderly. The following town, city and district scooped position one on beautician/ most cleanest awards; Sowa, Gaborone and Bobonong respectively. His Exellency, the President of the Republic of Botswana, Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi then took part in the Panel discussion with other panellist about the Mindset Change initiative since inception; then proceeded with his entourage to view the 31 different stalls for best business ideathons. #Are Chengeng #ahehetjohe #BWmindsetchange
16 August, 2024
Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources is participates at the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) Conference
Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources is participating in this year's Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) Conference from the 12th-16th August 2024. This is the second triennial conference to be hosted in Namibia, held under the theme “Operationalising Higher Agricultural Education and Research Ecosystems for Innovation, Industrialisation and Economic Development in Africa: A Call for Action”. According to RUFORUM, the conference is aimed at enabling education and agricultural ecosystem actors to showcase and present their key findings, lesson-share, and inform each other on key actions required to make science work in Africa’s development. From the BUAN team, Professor Valentino Emongor and Ms. Dineo Kereilwe did a poster presentation on Photosynthetic Parameter as Stress Indicators in Safflower. The aim of the conference was also set-up to allow lead actors in policy and practice to identify action areas for further investments in agriculture and higher education. Key actors in Africa’s agricultural development present were The African Union Commission (AUC) and sub – Regional Research Organisations (SROs) across Africa, and key players in the Agricultural Knowledge and Innovations Systems in Africa and beyond. Furthermore, the aim was to deliberate on the macro and micro needs to adapt smart operations in terms of changing connectivity, education, business practices, sustainable agricultural and value chain transitions, and advancement. We believe that this is a great learning opportunity for BUAN to show case to other fellow African universities what BUAN offers .BUAN will continue to participate in forums that transform agriculture and develop its communities. For more information follow the link below: https://ruforum.wordpress.com/2024/08/16/four-ruforum-member-universities-sign-memorandums-of-understanding-to-strengthen-collaborative-academia-and-industry-research/?utm_source=RUFORUM+Mailing+List&utm_campaign=ae0897e099-RUFORUM+Weekly+-+Vol.3+No.25_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_1fcfbb8a0b-ae0897e099-347224905&ct=t()&goal=0_1fcfbb8a0b-ae0897e099-347224905&mc_cid=ae0897e099&mc_eid=f567d33544
15 August, 2024
BUAN signs MOU with UNAM
Botswana and Namibia have a long standing that has since grown over the year. Today, it brings us great joy to announce that we have signed a memorandum of understanding with the University of Namibia. BUAN and UNAM staff have, for a long time, worked together in developing their different faculties, for example, Faculty of Health Science & Veterinary Medicine and the Faculty of Agriculture, Engineering and Natural Resources. BUAN also receives and trains Veterinary Meat Inspectors from the Government of Namibia at our second campus in Lobatse, the Meat Industry Training Institute annually. BUAN Vice Chancellor, Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele and UNAM Vice Chancellor Professor Kenneth Matengu both started by acknowledging that the MoU is an affirmation of existing relationship between the two institutions. Prof. Mosepele said that the loftier goal of this MoU is to facilitate the implementation of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which advocates for continental integration at all levels. One of the benefits of continental integration is a strengthened economy and social development. He said that BUAN embraces the ideals of Pan Africanism as outlined in the Agenda 2063 policy document and advocates for regional integration as espoused in the SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan 2020-2030. It was also very impressive to see that there were other African universities that were going into some form of partnership with UNAM, such as Makerere University- Uganda, Chinoyi University of Technology-Zimbabwe and University of South Africa. Prof. Mosepele concluded by saying that BUAN is committed to ensuring that this MoU is implemented comprehensively in the furtherance of these regional and continental policy instruments.
09 August, 2024
BUAN hosts its STEAM Satellite Event at Moeng College
The Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) successfully hosted its Science Technology Engineering Arts and Mathematics Satellite Event at Moeng College, as part of the 3rd National Science Week festival that will be held on the 19th- 24th August 2024. The event, held under the theme "An Inquiring Mind; A Gateway to Creativity and Innovation," drew participation from students, educators, and various stakeholders in the agricultural and natural resources sectors. The event was officially opened by Mrs. Didimalang Flora, who delivered a powerful keynote address. She emphasized the importance of STEAM education as a foundation for a thriving, progressive, and equitable society, highlighting its role in empowering individuals and driving societal progress. Professor Chepete also delivered a compelling speech, underscoring BUAN’s commitment to expanding science education across Botswana. He discussed the history and significance of National Science Week and urged students to embrace curiosity as a driving force for innovation and development. On the second day of the event, Professor Kgosimore delivered a public lecture on the Infusion of STEAM into Multiple Pathways, providing valuable insights into integrating science and technology into various educational pathways. The event concluded with an award ceremony where Lerala Secondary School was honored with the first-place award in the debate competition. Throughout the two days, attendees engaged in a range of activities, including exhibitions, public lectures, science experiments, and cultural performances by Moeng College students. A notable achievement of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between BUAN and Moeng College. This partnership will facilitate knowledge sharing and enhance practical training opportunities in agriculture and natural resources. The event also included a safflower production demonstration by Professor Vallentino Emongor, providing hands-on learning experiences for the participants. The BUAN Science Satellite Event at Moeng College was a resounding success, highlighting the university's commitment to promoting science education across Botswana.
26 July, 2024
Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources signs a Memorandum of Understanding with Gaborone City Council
Today Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources and Gaborone City Council held a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony, marking a pivotal moment in the advancement of collaborative efforts between the two institutions. This agreement underscores a commitment to foster mutual interests and objectives through a formalised partnership. The signing ceremony served as a public demonstration of both parties' dedication to their shared goals, highlighting their intent to combine resources, expertise, and strategic visions. In this MOU, GCC commits to assisting BUAN with providing a learning and research environment both short-term and long-term for BUAN learners after mutual agreement by both parties. It will also provide the BUAN learners and staff with the opportunity to collaborate with GCC staff for the benefit of the Gaborone community. BUAN pledges to engage in GCC activities for the betterment of communities. Upon endorsement and mutual agreement, BUAN will send its students to GCC facilities for industrial attachment. It will also assist with research on identified GCC problem areas and share research and technology information for the development of the city and Gaborone community. The memorandum represents a strategic alignment that aims to enhance operational efficiency, expand opportunities, and drive innovation. The ceremony not only celebrated the formalisation of this partnership but also set the stage for future initiatives and cooperative ventures that promise to deliver substantial benefits to both organisations and the broader community they serve. The parties intend to share necessary and relevant resources, i.e., providing professional and technical support in researching, collating information, undertaking capacity-building initiatives, or attending relevant conferences, seminars, and workshops related to the objective of the MoU. Furthermore, they intend to leverage strategic partnerships between BUAN and GCC member entities. Speaking at the ceremony, His Honour, the Mayor of Gaborone City, Austin Abraham, said that GCC's commitment to improving the outlook of Gaborone as a sustainable and global investment hub depends on its partnership with BUAN. He said that the institution’s location at the entrance of Gaborone city makes it attractive and appealing with the Agrivoltaic solar panels that turn with the sun, it is a mesmerising view centred on technological innovation. “The 21st century presents new and unknown challenges and opportunities that can be addressed through research. BUAN, with its exceptional record, is a force to reckon with for GCC in addressing challenges such as flooding, carbon emissions, and, of course, the illumination/lighting of the city,” said the mayor. During the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ketlhatlogile Mosepele, said that sustainability is central to BUAN’s identity as it is the basic framework towards addressing major challenges facing urbanisation at both local and global scales. It is the best pathway towards ameliorating the developmental challenges facing Gaborone. Therefore, this MoU will give GCC access to expertise that reposes here in BUAN for the benefit of our beautiful city. He also said that BUAN takes pride in nurturing future leaders, steeped in the ethos of sustainability, fostering innovation, and contributing to the well-being of our citizens. Therefore, this partnership will make communities self-sufficient in food and nutrition security. At BUAN we believe that this is a long lasting partnership that will catapult the city of Gaborone and the country at large to greater heights as the two parties are willing to extend a hand to each other and help where necessary.
17 July, 2024
BUAN MEETS WITH INTERNATIONAL ATOMIC ENERGY AGENCY (IAEA) EXPERTS
On the 16th July 2024, Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources hosted Prof Zeblon Vilakazi FRS, Dr Rob Adam, and Dr Van Zyl de Villiers from the International Atomic Energy Agency. The aim of their visit was to introduce the establishment of the Botswana Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology (BINST) under the following terms of reference: ? To review national policies and strategies that support the establishment of the BINST. ? To engage with local stakeholders to identify facilities, infrastructure, and potential projects for BINST (Needs Assessment). ? To engage with the senior management of national stakeholders (BINST Stakeholder/Steering Committee). ? To produce a costed business plan to be presented to the Government of Botswana for the phased establishment of BINST. BUAN expressed interest in working with IAEA in program development, staff/student exchange, collaborative research projects/visits, online teaching, presentations, and workshops.
11 July, 2024
BUAN participates at the Selebi-Phikwe Trade Fair and Agric Expo!
Selebi-Phikwe Trade Fair and Agric Expo 2024 Today marks the official opening of the Selebi-Phikwe Trade Fair and Agric Expo! We were honored to have Honorable Beauty Manake as our keynote speaker, delivering an inspiring speech. She emphasized, "Today's gathering symbolizes our collective commitment as a nation to enhance regional economic collaboration and fostering moments of significant economic growth and development." Honorable Manake also encouraged Batswana to venture into food processing, aligning with our theme, "Innovating for Food Self-Sufficiency." This five-day event is in full swing, and we are excited to connect with industry leaders, farmers, and enthusiasts. Don't miss out on the remaining days filled with informative sessions, exciting exhibitions, and networking opportunities. Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from the expo. Visit our booth to learn more about BUAN and our contributions to agriculture and natural resources. Selebi-Phikwe Trade Fair and Agric Expo 2024 Today marks the official opening of Selebi-Phikwe Trade Fair and Agric Expo! We were honored to have Honorable Beauty Manake as our keynote speaker, delivering an inspiring speech. She emphasized, "Today's gathering symbolizes our collective commitment as a nation to enhance regional economic collaboration and fostering moments of significant economic growth and development." Honorable Manake also encouraged Batswana to venture into food processing, aligning with our theme, "Innovating for Food Self-Sufficiency." This five-day event is in full swing, and we are excited to connect with industry leaders, farmers, and enthusiasts. Don't miss out on the remaining days filled with informative sessions, exciting exhibitions, and networking opportunities. Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from the expo. Visit our booth to learn more about BUAN and our contributions to agriculture and natural resources.
11 July, 2024
MEETING WITH THE INDIAN HIGH COMMISSION TO BOTSWANA
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele, paid a courtesy call to the Indian High Commission to Botswana, H. E. Mr. Bharath Kumar Kuthati on the 11th of July 2024. The Vice Chancellor expressed interest in working closely and collaborating with universities and institutions in India, particularly in areas of research and student/staff exchange. The Indian High Commissioner expressed his willingness to assist BUAN in working with Indian institutions. He acknowledged BUAN in its efforts to improve agriculture and natural resources, thus improving food security, production, and nutrition in Botswana. He emphasized that India is able to feed itself due to the commitment of farmers and the country in making sure that food security and export of its produce is achieved . BUAN was given the task to find the universities and institutions in India that they would like to work with, and the High Commission’s office will assist in ensuring fruitful collaborations and partnerships. Other areas discussed were offers of Indian scholarships to BUAN and access to grants/funding offered by the Indian government and institutions.
10 July, 2024
BUAN at the 2nd Botswana Sustainability Week
Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources joined Green Loop ESG Consultants in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, United Nations Global Compact UNGC, European Union Delegation to Botswana in the second Botswana Sustainability week. The event was held on the 8th-10th under the theme “investing in ESG and sustainability with positive environmental social impact” The event brought together industry experts in Botswana and globally to share information on Environment Social Governance. During the information sharing sessions the BUAN Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs and Research Professor Justin Chepete presented on the benefits of Climate Smart Agriculture during climate crisis. This is a very important topic, since the world is currently faced with climate change, and thwre is a need for smart technologies. Prof Chepete defined Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) as a set of agricultural practices and technologies that simultaneously boost productivity, enhance resilience, and reduce GHG emissions. He also shared some of BUAN’s initiatives thatareb climate smart centred such as the Solar powered water purification plant for grey water, Agrivoltaic plant for solar energy, and the use of dairy farm manure for biogas production. In summarizing his presentation, he encouraged the audience to engage in practices that provide constant awareness of past, present, and future weather occurrences that help farmers to avoid and/or reduce risks of climate change. Furthermore, he encouraged them to minimise tillage, crop residue retention, agroforestry, and integrated nutrient management that increase the amount of carbon sequestered in soils. He also encouraged them to utilize biofuels, solar, use of fuel-efficient machines, crop residue management, and zero tillage that reduce energy use. They must also adopt practises such as rainwater harvesting, mulching, on-farm water management, terracing, and contouring that can reduce climate-induced water stress. He was joined by Professor Moatlhodi Kgosimore, who spoke about One Health, which is an integrated, unifying approach that aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of humans, animals, plants, and ecosystems. It recognizes the health of humans, domestic and wild animals, plants, and the wider environment (including ecosystems),which are closely linked and interdependent (Adisasmito et al., 2022). One Health is a collaborative, multisector, and transdisciplinary approach to mitigate against various issues related to the health of animals, plants, humans and ecosystems and their interactions for optimal health. “Botswana is one of the few countries which have implements the Libreville Declaration. The approach of this declaration emphasizes the impact of the environment on human health”. He said. It is important that we look at the world from a One Health perspective to achieve sustainable growth because everything we do is intertwined.
18 June, 2024
GREGORY THATO RAKOBE HONOURED AS A MANDELA WASHINGTON FELLOW
GREG SETS OFF TO THE USA Today is one of BUAN’s most memorable moments as we send off Gregory Thato Rakobe to the United States of America,Texas, on a leadership program. Greg, as we like to call him, is honoured as a Mandela Washington Fellow, representing Botswana in the Leadership in Public Management track at Texas Tech University, Lubbock. This prestigious fellowship is part of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), where he is gaining invaluable insights and skills at Texas Tech University to drive positive change in the agricultural sector. We are really proud to spotlight him today, as he is a dedicated PhD Candidate in Animal Science with a specialization in Animal Nutrition. His groundbreaking research focuses on leveraging native medicinal plants, such as the Morama Bean, as sustainable alternatives to soybean in poultry diets. His work aims to support smallholder farmers by improving feed efficiency and promoting local agricultural practices. Join us in celebrating Greg's achievements and his commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture through innovative research.
13 June, 2024
BOTSWANA UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES (BUAN) GOES INTO PARTNERSHIP WITH AFRICROPS! GMBH
BUAN and Africrops!GmbH signed a Memorandum of Understanding whose overall aim is to not only provide vocational training in organic farming, but also to create an European market for organically produced plant products from Botswana. Generally, the main themes of the MoU include vocational training and entrepreneurship in Agri-ecological systems. The third theme of the MoU is production of non-traditional agriproducts for the local, regional and global markets. This collaboration is consistent with BUAN’s strategic direction of expanding the value chain of its programs to include non-traditional products. It is envisaged that this will not only facilitate the implementation of the Green Economy in Botswana but will also have a significant contribution to rural development. Moreover, as part of its strategic direction, BUAN will use this collaboration to ensure that benefits of the Green Economy are also enjoyed by vulnerable groups in Botswana, such as the disabled, women and the youth. This is aligned to BUAN’s commitment to implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In the signing ceremony, BUAN was represented by its Vice Chancellor, Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele, while Africrops!GmbH was represented by its Managing Director, Dr Heinrich Heinrichs. Based on this 3-year agreement, Professor Mosepele highlighted that “As part of our commitment to sustainability, we have recently made a formal commitment to work with key vulnerable groups in Botswana, particularly the disabled. Moreover, as part of our growth strategy, we are also developing a vocational program whose primary target is out of school youth, to make them productive members of society. Therefore, this partnership will benefit these vulnerable groups directly. It will give them access to a future Botswana that is envisaged under Vision 2036”. Professor Mosepele elucidated further on the envisaged benefits of this partnership to Botswana when he said that “this collaboration will foster Social Inclusion, facilitate Rural Development, mitigate against the high rate of Youth unemployment, Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET), and engender socio-economic growth by creating multiple pathways for Batswana to benefit from the Green Economy. This is perfectly aligned to BUAN's strategy to inspire sustainable growth. Ultimately, it will also facilitate BUAN’s contribution to government’s drive to Rural Development”. Similarly, Dr Heinrichs expressed excitement at the formalization of this partnership and the benefits that it will bring to both Africrops!GmbH and BUAN. According to him, there is a high demand for Moringa in Europe and this partnership will allow local producers to gain access to the lucrative European market. Other indigenous plant products that are planned for under this partnership include, but are not limited to, Mongongo, Morula, Baobab, and the Kalahari melon. Dr Heinrichs remarked that while several other countries around the world produce and supply Moringa, the Botswana product has potential to find a niche in the European market because it is organic. Furthermore, the Botswana Ambassador to Germany, Mr. Dipowe, also expressed satisfaction at the signing of this MoU. He promised to create an enabling environment that will ensure that the aims of this MoU are implemented for the benefit of Batswana. Mr. Dipowe emphasized that the Botswana Embassy in Germany is prepared to facilitate continued engagement between BUAN and Africrops!GmbH to ensure the success of the implementation of the MoU.