Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) and Botswana Railways have embarked on a transformative collaboration journey following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement is set to drive research, innovation, and skills development in the railway and transportation sectors, reinforcing Botswana’s commitment to technological advancement and economic growth.
During the signing ceremony, the Vice Chancellor of BIUST, Professor Otlogetswe Totolo, emphasized the significance of Botswana Railways as one of the country’s oldest and most experienced industry players. He expressed confidence that the partnership would leverage the strengths of both academia and industry to tap into emerging opportunities and address critical challenges in transport and logistics.
The collaboration will explore cutting-edge technologies, including the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and predictive maintenance solutions to enhance railway operations. Through research in automation, machine learning, and smart technologies, BIUST will assist Botswana Railways in optimizing safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness across the national railway network.
The partnership also opens doors for internships, industrial attachments, and real-world problem-solving opportunities for BIUST students. By engaging in hands-on experiences within Botswana Railways, students will gain valuable insights that will shape their careers and contribute to the industry’s growth.
Acting General Manager of Botswana Railways, Mr. Palalani Mari, echoed these sentiments, reaffirming Botswana Railways’ commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships that contribute to national development.
“This MOU is a crucial step towards harnessing the potential of academia and industry to address real-world challenges,” said Mr. Mari. “Through this partnership, we will promote research, enhance skills transfer, and facilitate knowledge exchange to strengthen Botswana’s position as a leader in railway engineering and transport solutions.”