News Date : 27 January, 2026
BUAN PhD Candidate Ms Kelebonye Ramolekwa Recognised with Prestigious L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science Award
Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) PhD candidate, Ms Kelebonye Kelly Ramolekwa, has attained an exceptional international distinction after being recognised at the 16th edition of the L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science Young Talents Sub-Saharan Africa Awards. This globally respected programme, jointly led by L’Oréal and UNESCO, is dedicated to identifying, supporting, and empowering outstanding women scientists whose research addresses critical scientific and societal challenges.
The For Women in Science initiative is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious platforms for advancing gender equity in science. It plays a pivotal role in strengthening scientific excellence across Africa by providing promising women researchers with financial support, international visibility, and access to leadership and professional development opportunities. Selection into the programme is highly competitive, reflecting the scientific merit, innovation, and potential impact of the recipients’ research.
Ms Ramolekwa was selected as one of only 25 awardees from 18 Sub-Saharan African countries, emerging from a competitive pool of more than 550 applicants. As part of this recognition, she received a €10,000 research grant, in addition to specialised training in leadership, scientific communication, and career development. These opportunities are designed to equip young women scientists with the skills necessary to influence policy, lead research initiatives, and contribute meaningfully to national and continental development agendas.
The award supports Ms Ramolekwa’s doctoral research, which focuses on enhancing yield potential and improving the nutritional quality of advanced cowpea lines an area of strategic importance for sustainable agriculture, food security, and nutrition in Africa. Her research is conducted under the supervision of Dr Motlalepula Tait, Dr LeKgari Lekgari, Professor Samodimo Ngwako, and Dr Goitseone Malambane.
In recognition of the excellence, relevance, and broader societal impact of her work, Ms Ramolekwa was nominated as the Southern African representative and selected as one of the principal speakers at the intergovernmental Pan-African Panel discussions. Participation in these high-level forums provides a critical platform for engaging with policymakers, development partners, and scientific leaders, enabling her to contribute to continental dialogue on science-driven solutions for agricultural development and food security.
This achievement not only reflects Ms Ramolekwa’s academic excellence and leadership potential, but also underscores BUAN’s commitment to producing globally competitive researchers whose work contributes to Africa’s sustainable development and scientific advancement.