By:Wandipa Gachala
The Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) continues to stimulate interest in Science, Engineering and Technology. On the 14th February 2022,BIUST hosted about 90 prospective students from various high schools around Botswana.The purpose of this visitation of high school students was to accord aspiring undergraduate students first hand interaction of the University facilities and give them insights into programmes offered, culture and student life. This initiative will aid students to consider BIUST as a University of choice. The visit was conducted. under the theme, “Converting raw materials into sustainable and high-performance products’ ‘.
The Director of Registry Services, Mr Donah Lekwati, extended his appreciation to parents and teachers for allowing the students to honour the University invitation. He highlighted that the event intends to showcase what BIUST offers and appetite prospects to be a part of the excitement the institution offers. “BIUST is a world-leading and industry-relevant institution that attracts the best students specialising in STEM. Thank you for being of strong faith and befitting to be a part of this occasion,” he said.
In conclusion, he implored the Student Representative Council, Minister of Academic Affairs, Wamorena Mogalenyana to take advantage of the Open Day opportunity and discover more about the University, noting that Wamorena decided to become a Scientist during the same event held a few years back
Speaking on behalf of the Engineering Faculty, Lecturer, Chemical Engineering, Dr Vepika Kandijou, focused his presentation on Materials & Metallurgical Engineering.He highlighted career opportunities associated with the program upon completion of studies. He noted that upon completion of their studies, BIUST students get opportunities to work with well-established companies such as BITRI, Debswana, Khoemacau, Morupule Coal Mine, Botswana Police Services and BIUST. Senior Lecturer, Chemical and Forensic Sciences, Dr Pogisego Dinake gave a careers Overview and programmes offered.
The presentations were followed by tours to the Faculty of Engineering Laboratories where technicians inducted the potential students on several topics such as Coal Recovery and Beneficiation by Pyrolysis/ Gasification, Recovery of Copper Nickel concentrate by Froth Flotation and Characteristic Aspects of Metal properties: Wear performance of steel for industrial applications.
A third-year Biology Student, Wamorena, described BIUST as a home away from where one’s passion is put into practice. “BIUST is a diverse university, the only STEM specialised University,” he said, noting that for one to excel at BIUST they need to be passionate, disciplined and committed. Ms G. Waleboa, Senior Teacher- Guidance at St Joseph’s College, closed the ceremony with a vote of thanks. She urged the students to embrace the 21st century for them to be able to strive in Science, Engineering andTechnology.
“We learnt a lot today, and I believe that the students here today are a special group.You will be privileged if you pass with quality grades and are admitted here at BIUST.This is a global university that creates global employment opportunities,” she concluded.