The Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) was honoured to host a high-level delegation from the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) and the Air Force War College of Nigeria. The visit formed part of an international study tour under the theme: “Military Industrial Complex and National Security: Lessons for Nigeria.”
The study tour aims to broaden participants’ understanding of the critical link between military capabilities, technological innovation, and national security. In alignment with this goal, BIUST presented several of its flagship projects that reflect both national relevance and strategic military value. These included:
• BOTSAT-1 – Botswana’s first satellite initiative, symbolising the nation’s foray into space technology.
• SKA/AVN – The Square Kilometre Array and African Very Long Baseline Interferometry Network, showcasing regional scientific collaboration in radio astronomy.
• Drone Technologies – Highlighting BIUST’s advancements in unmanned aerial systems and their potential in both civilian and defence applications.
This collaborative engagement was made possible through the ongoing Memorandum of Agreement between BIUST and the BDF, which fosters cooperation in research, innovation, and the development of defence technologies.
In his address to the delegation, Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Ogwu noted the timeliness of the visit, stating: “Your visit comes at a critical time when security challenges across the world call for renewed efforts in fostering innovation, strategic partnerships, and knowledge exchange. Under the theme ‘Military Industrial Complex and National Security,’ we gather not only to share insights, but also to explore the deeper synergies between science, technology, and national defence.”
He further emphasized BIUST’s commitment to be a leading centre of excellence in research and innovation, particularly in science, engineering, and technology. We recognize that modern national security increasingly depends on technological advancement, from cyber defence systems and unmanned aerial platforms to materials engineering and secure communications. Furthermore, he said it is therefore essential that institutions like ours work closely with defence forces to ensure our research efforts translate into practical and strategic national benefits.
Representing the Nigerian Defence Force, Air Vice Marshal PB Phillips, who led the delegation, applauded the visit and BIUST’s continued collaboration with defence institutions. He remarked: “Platforms such as these where academia meets military are important. In the Nigerian Defence Force, we place high importance on education; every member of this delegation holds a master’s degree, and we seek partnerships with institutions like BIUST to continue developing our human capital. This collaboration is already bearing fruit, with BDF officers studying and graduating from BIUST.”
Air Vice Marshal Phillips also commended Botswana’s strategic direction: “We are particularly impressed by Botswana’s shift towards a knowledge-based economy. As countries across the globe grapple with the limitations of resource-based growth, investments in education, research, and innovation are the future.”
This visit not only reinforces the strategic relationship between BIUST and regional defence bodies but also exemplifies the University’s broader vision to contribute to national and continental development through cutting-edge science and technology.
BIUST remains steadfast in its mission to drive innovation and nurture partnerships that elevate both security and socio-economic development across Africa.