Letsholathebe urges UB to innovate in next 40 years

Ministry of Education and Skills Development, Dr. Douglas Letsholathebe urged the University of Botswana to use the next 40 years for active engagement underpinned by discoveries and innovation as the institution celebrates 40 years of existence.

Letsholathebe said the occasion could not have come at a better time as Botswana is transforming from a resource to a knowledge-based economy.

He stated; “Not only are we celebrating the success of our forebearers who bequeathed us this great institution we are celebrating today. We are here also to reflect and reimagine the landscape of our tertiary education system.”

The country is faced with a myriad of problems which can only be solved by responsive universities which are quick to come up with sustainable solutions according to the Minister but he has faith in the University of Botswana with more than 54 percent of its academic staff holding post-graduate degrees.

As an ivory tower of knowledge capable of guiding and enriching national development, the Minister said the university should be at the forefront of research for tangible products and services that can be commercialised.

“Your 40 more years, therefore, should be a period of active engagement underpinned by discoveries and innovations,” he stated and welcomed the establishment of an innovation hub to develop and nurture expertise in various fields for Batswana.

Because the 40th Anniversary takes place during the transition into a knowledge-based society, Letsholathebe reasoned that the University of Botswana would serve as a guiding light.

He called for inclusive education and urged the institution to always assume a leading role through research and innovation which can help improve the economy for better living standards for Batswana.