News Date : 12 September, 2024
BUAN SIGNS A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH THE CHARLES HILL DISTRICT COUNCIL
On 12th of September, a momentous and inspiring occasion occurred as Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) and the Charles Hill District Council (CDC) under the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development formalized their partnership. The Vice Chancellor of BUAN, Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele, expressed his genuine excitement about the potential of this partnership, believing it to be the beginning of a fruitful relationship that will not only bring about positive transformation in the District but also provide BUAN with a strong sense of purpose. He passionately stated, "BUAN is a national asset, and this partnership will ensure that Batswana receives a significant Return on Investment." Understanding the pressing need to address issues of poverty and hunger, particularly in the face of Botswana's challenging climate,
BUAN has committed to working hand in hand with the CDC to enhance the Agriculture and Natural Resources sectors in rural areas. This collaboration aims to uplift rural livelihoods and foster economic diversification for the benefit of Botswana as a whole. Professor Mosepele emphasized that these sectors represent the future. Through this partnership, the Charles Hill District Council is actively shaping a future that will foster socio-economic growth in the region. His sentiments echoed those of Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms Baipelelwang C. Photlokwe, who expressed the Ministry's delight in seeing councils collaborate with other entities to drive socio-economic growth. She specifically highlighted the importance of BUAN's involvement, recognizing the university as a key player in capacity building within councils and the western region, with high hopes that these collaborations will propel the National Vision 2036 and other government agendas forward.
In a demonstration of innovation, BUAN has established BUAN Enterprises, a private company with the primary goal of generating additional income for the university to ensure financial sustainability. The company boasts a range of business enterprises, including the pioneering 1 MW Agri-voltaic plant that generates solar power and cultivates vegetables on the same land. This innovative approach has allowed BUAN to power its main campus during the day and sell surplus electricity to the national power utility, Botswana Power Corporation. The Vice-Chancellor confidently stated that the company's value stands at approximately BWP 70 million today, with aspirations to propel it into a multi-billion-Pula enterprise. BUAN's proactive approach extends to establishing a Solar Training Center geared towards developing technical skills in renewable energy and positioning it as a pivotal driver of socio-economic growth in the future.
Further showcasing its commitment to sustainability, BUAN has commissioned a cutting-edge water purification plant capable of transforming grey sewage water into potable water suitable for agricultural use. Given Botswana's water-stressed environment, this technology promises to significantly facilitate water reuse in the country, with the added benefit of being powered by solar-generated electricity. In its dedication to nurturing entrepreneurship, BUAN has launched the INCUHIVE incubation program, specifically designed for BUAN graduates, aiming to empower them to become successful entrepreneurs in the Agriculture and Natural Resources sectors. Despite limited funding, BUAN diligently trains approximately 40 incubates at a time, providing comprehensive guidance on the entire business cycle of an Agri-business enterprise in collaboration with LEA. The ultimate goal is cultivating a culture of employers rather than employees in Botswana's Agriculture and Natural Resources sectors.
As part of its strategic vision, BUAN has forged a partnership with the Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Culture to establish the Sechaba Program, which seeks to support out-of-school youth in developing start-ups in the Agriculture and Natural Resources sectors, further demonstrating BUAN's dedication to empowering the youth and driving innovation. In essence, this Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signifies a significant milestone in fostering an environment of knowledge sharing and co-creation in the Agriculture and Natural Resources space, ensuring that the invaluable expertise and knowledge housed at BUAN are accessible to all.
BUAN is commitment to successfully implementing its MoU with CDC reflects its deep-seated dedication to the development of the District and the nation as a whole.