Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources

PUBLIC NOTICE: Kindly note that the University will open on the 7th January 2025 not the 6th January 2025 as earlier communicated. We apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.

Bakang Kgasudi makes it to the top 25 PhD candidates at the 15th L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Young Talents Sub-Saharan Africa Awards Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources ‘s mission is to produce innovative graduates and technological solutions, for sustainable development in agriculture and natural resources sectors. Today, we stand proud as BUAN and celebrate Bakang Kedumetse Kgasudi, who is amongst the top 25 PhD candidates at the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Young Talents Sub-Saharan Africa Awards. Bakang was awarded for her scientific research that focuses on Cowpea improvement. Her research is an effort to help farmers in Botswana raise yields by creating more climate-resilient, productive varieties of cowpea, a staple legume crop. Her research will help to improve farmer livelihoods, support agricultural development and promote food security in Botswana.  At BUAN we are keen on supporting this research as our mandate is to inspire sustainable growth of the Agriculture and Natural Resources sectors. Join us today in celebrating Bakang for her work and inspiring young women to work hard and believe in their capabilities #ForWomenInScience #Foundation L'Oréal and @UNESCO  #FWIS2024

BUAN celebrates BOU’s 7th graduation ceremony. Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources proudly celebrated the 7th graduation ceremony of Botswana Open University, honoring the achievements and hard work of the graduates. The event brought together students, faculty, and families to recognize the significant milestones reached throughout their academic journeys. It was a day filled with pride, encouraging the graduates to pursue their dreams and contribute to their communities. The ceremony served as a reminder of BUAN's commitment to academic excellence and the empowerment of future leaders as it came to celebrate with BOU During the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor of BUAN delivered a keynote address to the graduating class, emphasizing the importance of their achievements and urging them to reflect on their roles in shaping Botswana's future. He encouraged the graduates to take pride in their accomplishments as they transition into their future roles. The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the economic challenges facing Botswana, particularly due to a slump in the diamond market, where sales have dropped over 50% in early 2024 compared to 2023. Contributing factors include competition from lab-grown diamonds, reduced demand from China, and supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions. Additionally, the unemployment rate stands at 27.6%, with youth unemployment seeing a significant increase. He called upon the graduates to take action, echoing the Minister of Higher Education Honorable Mooketsi Prince Maele's statement, “There is nobody who can play your role better than yourselves,” emphasizing that every graduate has a vital role in the economic development of the country. Professor Mosepele stressed the importance of graduates overcoming these challenges, as their education positions them as key contributors to the revitalization of Botswana's economy. He noted that the government has outlined strategies for social development, food security, and youth empowerment that require active participation from new graduates. Education is highlighted as a catalyst for economic transformation and competitiveness; countries with higher rates of higher education enrollment tend to achieve better economic outcomes. He encouraged graduates to engage in initiatives that leverage technology and innovation, particularly within the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Overall, the message combined the celebration of academic success with a strong call for responsibility and engagement in national development. BUAN shares in the excitement of the graduates' success and wishes them well in their future endeavors.

On the evening of November 21st, BUAN staff members gathered to recognize and celebrate the commitment, dedication, passion, love, and devotion of those who have worked for BUAN for over 10 years. "You have transformed BUAN from a college and set it on a path to greatness," stated BUAN Vice Chancellor, Professor Mosepele during the Long Service Awards ceremony, expressing his gratitude for the loyalty of his staff members. He reassured his employees of his care for them and mentioned that he is actively working to ensure their well-being by reviewing the BUAN General Conditions of Service. BUAN has also developed a framework for the promotion of support staff to acknowledge excellence. Professor Mosepele noted that 35 staff members across all categories have been promoted within the university between November 2022 and November 2024, marking significant progress in terms of promotions. In addition to honouring the awardees' commitment, Professor Mosepele thanked them for being mentors and role models for their peers, as they embody the values of BUAN. We take pride in being customer-centric, innovative, accountable, ethical, and dedicated to excellence and teamwork.

BUAN Participated in the official launch of the 2nd edition of the Thebephatswa Air Base (TAB) expo 2024 held under the theme “Empowering through Knowledge: Building a Sustainable Future”. BUAN was one the several organisation that had an opportunity to present and showcase at the event. During the presentation sessions at the event, the CICE Director Dr. Chandapiwa Butale gave an overview on the CICE courses. She mentioned that BDF is a crucial stakeholder for BUAN which is why BUAN reacted favorably to their request for assistance with this significant initiative.

BUAN walks with a purpose On November 15, 2024, Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) organized a two-hour sponsored walk under the theme "With Wheels, There Is a Way." This commendable initiative aimed to raise funds for the acquisition of an electric wheelchair that would significantly enhance the independence of one of the students. The event was conducted in collaboration with several esteemed organizations, including the Botswana Federation for the Disabled, the Southern African Federation for the Disabled, Play Without Boundaries, and the Botswana Association of the Blind and Partially Sighted. These partnering organizations provided invaluable guidance on how to engage meaningfully with individuals facing disabilities. Ms. Boitkhutso Majang poignantly remarked, "As persons with disabilities, we do not want your sympathy; we want your empathy." She underscored the importance of viewing individuals with disabilities as active participants in the community, rather than objects of pity. Professor Mosepele shared his personal experience regarding the isolation often felt by those using wheelchairs. He stated, "I felt lonely in the wheelchair as you all went ahead of me. When we switched and it was my turn to push the wheelchair, I realized how heavy it was." His reflections highlighted the significance of participating in such activities to foster awareness and deepen understanding of the realities faced by individuals with disabilities. He urged the BUAN community to promote inclusivity, engage in meaningful interactions, and work collectively towards building a compassionate society. With the support of BUAN’s dedicated community, there is optimism that sufficient funds will be raised to purchase the much-needed electric wheelchair. Additionally, generous contributions have been received from external stakeholders, including a notable donation from Ms. Modisaotsile Nkwe of Lichwe II Junior Secondary School. We extend our gratitude to all who participated and contributed to this important cause.