UB markets business Hub
University of Botswana ( UB) has challenged the business community to leverage on the institution’s new innovation hub. The institution made the call at the launch of a
Technology Transfer Office and Innovation Centre established to support the country’s business growth.
“Bring your ideas, work with our professors, use our facilities and let’s innovate,” said Vice Chancellor, Professor David Norris citing that the Centre is a brainstorming and mentorship lab.
Professor Norris said the hub will provide an environment for individuals, businesses and organisations to collaborate on new projects.
“The Centre will work closely with the University’s Business Clinic for promotion and development of business and entrepreneurship skills,” said Professor Norris, explaining that universities play a critical role in the growth of economies.
“We cannot have an impact if we don’t occupy a critical place in the innovation ecosystem and value chain. We cannot be impactful if ideas end at journal article publication stage.”
The Innovation Centre is part of the institution’s strategic plan for 2020- 2029 running under the banner: ‘ Creating a Future for the Knowledge Generation’, expected to create and deliver high- quality applied research and innovation.
So far, the Centre has developed an acoustic automated detection tool for spotted hyaena, a solution farmers can use to define grazing parameters for their livestock.
In addition, ongoing is the testing on wildlife reaction to unmanned Aerial vehicles ( Drones) to bring insight on the strategies for safe tourism.
Vice President, Slumber Tsogwane has applauded UB for setting up the Centre to support the country’s knowledge based economy efforts.
“An Innovation Centre such as this is key to our national innovation ecosystem, and will undoubtedly complement our efforts to deliver sustainable economic growth and prosperity for Botswana and Batswana.
“It will furthermore, foster a culture of innovation, supporting entrepreneurship, propelling job creation, encouraging collaboration, and promoting technology skills transfer and commercialisation. These will, in turn, significantly impact the economy by developing new technologies, industries, and businesses that drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance Botswana’s global competitiveness,” said Tsogwane.
He said the Hub is integral to government’s policies and strategies, such as the Botswana National Research, Science and Technology Policy and Smart Botswana.