The Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) and the Botswana Teachers Union (BTU) have formalised a strategic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening science education, teacher development, and community outreach across Botswana.
Speaking at the signing ceremony held at BIUST, Vice Chancellor Professor Otlogetswe Totolo said the collaboration reflects a shared national priority of improving education outcomes by investing in teachers, expanding learner support, and accelerating STEAM literacy — Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics, bat all levels of schooling.
“This partnership aligns strongly with BIUST’s mandate to build national capacity for a knowledge-driven economy through science, technology, innovation, and high-impact partnerships,” said Professor Totolo. He emphasised that outreach and engagement are core to BIUST’s mission, noting the University’s continued work through STEM festivals, school engagement programmes, mentorship initiatives, and inquiry-based learning activities delivered through the Outreach and Engagement Directorate.
Professor Totolo highlighted GEMS (Girls Excelling in Mathematics and Science) as one of BIUST’s flagship outreach programmes, supporting young women, particularly from rural and underserved communities to pursue STEM pathways through mentorship, skills development, and confidence-building initiatives. He noted that the MoU reinforces the shared commitment between BIUST and BTU to advancing gender equality in STEM education.
Delivering remarks on behalf of BTU, BTU President Mr Agang Gabana described the signing of the MoU as a historic milestone that aligns with the Union’s long-standing objective of promoting educational development and public appreciation for the value of education.
“Partnering with BIUST is both timely and strategic,” said Mr Gabana. “As STEAM becomes increasingly central at basic education level, there is a clear need for a well-equipped and knowledgeable teaching workforce. BIUST’s expertise across science and technology sectors presents an invaluable opportunity for our members and learners.”
Mr Gabana noted that BTU, which represents more than 26,000 teachers across primary, secondary, and tertiary education, has remained committed to education development since its establishment in 1937 under the motto ‘We Educate’. He further highlighted the alignment of the partnership with continental frameworks such as the Continental Education Strategy for Africa (CESA 2026–2036), TVET Strategy 2025–2034, and Africa’s Agenda 2063, all of which emphasise skills-based transformation and innovation-led growth.
Kgosi Amigo Nthebolang welcomed the partnership and expressed appreciation for hosting the event in Palapye. He described the collaboration as important for students, the community, and the nation at large, commending BIUST’s growing impact and its role in nurturing talent from across the region.
Closing the ceremony, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Teaching and Learning, Professor Elisha Shemang, described the MoU as a significant milestone in fulfilling the University’s national mandate.
“This partnership could not have come at a better time,” he said. “BTU is a key partner that will help facilitate outreach initiatives, teacher development, and learner engagement from basic to tertiary levels. We owe it to the nation to actively support both teachers and learners, ensuring they are adequately prepared for higher education and future careers.”
The partnership also comes at a strategic moment as Botswana prepares to host the African Astronomical Society (AfAS) Conference later this year. Through the MoU, BIUST and BTU will collaborate on pre-conference Astronomy outreach workshops in the Chobe region, ensuring teachers and learners benefit directly from engagement with national and international experts.
Through this collaboration, BIUST and BTU aim to strengthen classrooms, enhance teaching practice, inspire learners, and position Botswana to compete globally through science, innovation, and education-driven development.