Innovation policy approved by Parliament

The review of the Research Science Technology and Innovation ( RSTI) Policy that was approved by Parliament in 2012 has been concluded. Minister of Communications, Knowledge and Technology Thulaganyo Segokogo told Parliament that alongside the review of the policy is a maiden National Science, Technology and Innovation ( STI) Foresight Framework. Segokgo explained that the STI Foresight Framework should lead to seamless prioritisation of the Government’s national research value- chains; from which the national research agenda is determined. According to the Minister, the intention is to institutionalise the Foresight Framework, so as to keep abreast with the continually evolving technology landscape. Segokgo stated that the Indigenous Knowledge Systems policy, whose main aim is to create seamless interface of modern science with indigenous knowledge would be completed in the next financial year. He said research funding is critical to the creation of knowledge in the achievement of a high- income economy. “Research funding needs to cater for the full- cycle of research- to- prototype, so as to enable commercialisation. The process for establishing a dedicated National Research Fund is advanced and expected to be finalised in the 2023/ 2024 Financial Year. “Additional research funding would be sourced from industry, partners and donors; both locally and internationally,” he said. The Minister revealed that the Botswana International University of Science and Technology ( BIUST) Research Chair on Climate Change Research is progressing well, with all Masters and Doctors of Philosophy students now enrolled. He indicated that the Implementation Plan of the 2022/ 2027 Science Communication and Public Engagement Strategy that he launched in 2022, is being finalised. Implementation of the plan by stakeholders, who contributed to its development in January 2023, is key to fostering partnerships and reducing duplication and fragmentation of research efforts Segokgo explained that recognising and rewarding researchers goes a long way in energising the research landscape. “In March 2023, my ministry hosted the inaugural National Research Excellence Awards, where 24 Botswana based researchers were recognised for excellence in research in categories that included Agriculture, Health, Indigenous Knowledge Systems and ICT,” the Minister said. He said the Botswana- Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership based researcher, Dr. Sikhulile Moyo, was given a special recognition for the discovery of the COVID- 19 Omicron variant at the awards ceremony. He announced that the private sector and specifically the ABSA Bank of Botswana also sponsored a category. “I am happy to report that Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation ( BITRI) continues to develop technologies in ICT, Agriculture and Food Processing and energy efficiency. “Deserving innovation proposals will be provided with funding from the Botswana Innovation Fund. Indigenous Knowledge Systems are also included in the calls for funding. “I encourage innovators and technology developers to take advantage of these opportunities, especially the ongoing call for funding. The National Science Week ( NSW) serves to dispel stereotypic perception of science and technology as difficult, unaffordable and inaccessible,” he said, adding that through the programme science and technology information is disseminated to communities.

Students and youth are practically engaged to demystify complex science concepts. Segokgo stated that the Science Week, which this year will be held in Letlhakeng from 21st to 25th of August 2023, also promotes co- production and multi- disciplinary approach to technology development.