Africa-Press – Botswana. Yesterday marked a historic milestone at the Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) with the inauguration of President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko as the institution’s Chancellor. The event brought together academic leaders, government officials, and stakeholders to celebrate the appointment of a leader committed to advancing education, research, and innovation. In his inaugural address, Chancellor Boko expressed profound gratitude for the trust placed in him, promising to lead with humility, integrity, and a forward-looking vision. He paid tribute to his predecessor, former President Festus Gontebanye Mogae, whose leadership helped establish BIUST as a premier research institution in Botswana. The Chancellor emphasized that the role is not only ceremonial but also central to guiding the university’s mission of producing skilled professionals and fostering a culture of innovation.
Chancellor Boko reaffirmed BIUST’s pivotal role in Botswana’s transition to a knowledge-based economy through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education, as well as innovation-driven research. He highlighted key milestones, including the launch of the BOTSAT-1 satellite, as examples of the university’s commitment to pushing technological boundaries and contributing to national development. The Chancellor stressed the importance of investing in youth, promoting education, and supporting technological advancement as foundations for a competitive, future-ready workforce. He also outlined plans to enhance research capacity, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensure that the university remains at the forefront of scientific discovery. These initiatives aim to position BIUST as a center of excellence that produces solutions to national and global challenges.
In his address, Chancellor Boko also committed to strengthening partnerships with government, industry, and international research institutions to advance BIUST’s mission. He emphasized fostering an environment where students and faculty can explore new ideas, innovate, and translate research into practical solutions that benefit society. The Chancellor encouraged the university community to embrace creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking as core principles that will shape Botswana’s future. He underscored that BIUST should serve as a hub where innovation thrives, research is world-class, and the next generation of leaders and innovators is nurtured. His vision signals a renewed focus on leveraging education and technology to drive economic growth and sustainable development.
The inauguration of President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko as Chancellor reinforces BIUST’s commitment to excellence in education, research, and innovation. His leadership promises to guide the university toward greater achievements, fostering a culture of integrity, collaboration, and forward-thinking. With a focus on STEM, technological advancement, and youth development, BIUST is poised to contribute significantly to Botswana’s knowledge economy. Strengthened partnerships, enhanced research programs, and a supportive environment for innovation will position the university as a model institution in the region. Under Chancellor Boko’s guidance, BIUST aims to be a place where ideas are generated, innovation flourishes, and the future of Botswana is actively shaped.
