On November 10, 2024, our Vice Chancellor, Professor Ketlhatlhogile Mosepele, had the honor of addressing the 2024 Science Granting Council Initiative (SGCI) Annual Forum and GRC Sub-Sahara Regional Meeting at the Avani Hotel. This event is hosted by the Ministry of Communication, Knowledge, and Technology. This year’s conference is themed "Science Granting Councils in a Dynamic African Science, Technology, and Innovation Landscape" and is scheduled to run until November 15, 2024. It is expected to host approximately 100 international and regional delegates who will discuss, debate, and explore the evolving landscape of African science, technology, and innovation.   In his address, Professor Mosepele acknowledged the significant role of the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) in enhancing the capacity of national research funding agencies. He urged participants to engage in discussions aimed at strengthening the agility and responsiveness of research-granting councils to meet the evolving demands of our science, technology, and innovation (STI) landscape. He encouraged the exploration of best practices, sharing of success stories, and, most importantly, identifying collaborative strategies to tackle the unique challenges faced by the continent.   As a university dedicated to being an innovative and research-intensive institution in agriculture and natural resources, we value such forums and will continue to actively participate in them. #inspiringsustainablegrowth  

During this year’s World Food Day commemoration at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN), Vice Chancellor Prof. Ketlhatlogile Mosepele articulated the university’s commitment to sustainable growth, rooted in the principles of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He emphasized, “Part of our mandate is to contribute to making Botswana food and nutrition secure. We take this responsibility seriously.” This statement is evident in the activities that BUAN took part in that have encouraged a lot of young minds to be innovative regarding food security, and hosting this event is its contribution towards promoting awareness about issues affecting the food industry.   The theme for this year’s event, “Right to Food for a Better Life and Better Future,” resonates significantly with Botswana’s current circumstances. Prof. Mosepele underscored the vital role of the agriculture and natural resources sectors in supporting rural livelihoods and assisting vulnerable populations. These sectors are fundamental to sustaining families and fostering community development, essential components for achieving the National Transformation Strategy.   Ms. Carla Mucavi, the FAO Country Representative in Botswana, voiced her agreement, referencing the Botswana Vulnerability Assessment Committee (BVAC) and FAO reports for 2024, which underline the urgent need for enhanced interventions to combat food shortages exacerbated by drought. She urged all stakeholders present to collaborate diligently in implementing effective solutions to ensure food security for affected communities.   The event featured a panel discussion with industry specialists who shared valuable insights into prevailing challenges and potential mitigation strategies. Additionally, BUAN students showcased their innovative projects through a series of exhibitions, highlighting the university's commitment to fostering creativity and solutions within the agricultural and natural resources sectors.

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.