News Date : 17 April, 2024
ENHANCING PARTNERSHIPS: BUAN VICE CHANCELLOR LEADS DELEGATION TO UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA
In a strategic move aimed at fostering collaboration and enhancing partnerships, Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele, Vice Chancellor of Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN), spearheaded a high-level delegation to the University of Pretoria on April 16, 2024.
Accompanied by esteemed colleagues including Prof. Samodimo Ngwako, Mr. Kabelo Mosarwe, and Mr. Kealeboga Pifelo, the delegation engaged with the Director of the Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI) at the University of Pretoria, Professor Bernard Slippers, and his team. The visit commenced with an insightful overview of BUAN and its core mandate, paving the way for robust discussions on various topical issues shaping academia and research today. Among the focal points of discussion were:
1. Navigating Corporate-University Dynamics: Addressing the challenges and opportunities in the interface between big corporates and academic institutions.
2. Building Critical Mass through Networks: Emphasizing the significance of collaboration networks in driving impactful research and innovation.
3. Creating Value through Partnerships: Advocating for a focused and refined approach to partnership strategies to maximize mutual benefits.
4. Structural Streamlining: Exploring strategies to streamline university structures for enhanced focus and efficiency.
5. Consortia for Regional Challenges: Highlighting the importance of concerted efforts among universities to tackle common regional challenges through collaborative consortia.
6. Technology and Innovation: Acknowledging technology and innovation as catalysts for the advancement of agricultural institutions towards maturity.
7. Local Expertise in Research: Recognizing the pivotal role of local experts and scientists in shaping the trajectory of research in the region.
8. Enhancing Staff and Student Mobility: Discussing avenues for facilitating staff and student mobility to foster cross-pollination of ideas and expertise.
9. Intellectual Property Management: Addressing the management of intellectual property and facilitating technology transfer for broader societal impact.
Following these enriching discussions, Professor Mosepele engaged in further dialogue with Professor Themba Mosia, Interim Vice Chancellor of the University of Pretoria, underscoring the mutual benefits of collaboration between both institutions. The visit culminated in a tour of the state-of-the-art research facilities at FABI, providing valuable insights into ongoing research endeavours and potential areas for future collaboration.
The exchange between BUAN and the University of Pretoria signifies a commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships, driving innovation, and addressing regional challenges through collaborative efforts. As both institutions look towards the future, this visit marks a significant step in advancing academic excellence and societal impact through strategic collaborations.