The Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) has set its sights firmly on the future following the recent inauguration of Duma Gideon Boko as Chancellor, with Vice Chancellor Elisha Shemang outlining an ambitious vision for the institution’s role in national transformation.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Professor Shemang framed the moment not simply as a leadership transition, but as a reaffirmation of BIUST’s purpose in advancing Botswana’s development through science, technology, and innovation. He emphasized that the university remains committed to shaping a knowledge-driven economy and producing graduates equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving world.
The Vice Chancellor reflected on the institution’s foundations, noting that BIUST was established to serve as a centre of excellence in science, engineering, and technology. At its core, he said, lies a guiding belief that scientific knowledge is a strategic national resource, one that must be cultivated, applied, and continuously expanded.
He underscored that universities must go beyond traditional teaching, particularly those focused on STEM disciplines. BIUST, he said, carries the responsibility of nurturing minds capable of bold imagination, intelligent design, and fearless innovation. The success of the institution, he added, is ultimately measured by the real-world impact of its graduates and research.
Prof Shemang also acknowledged the enduring legacy of former Chancellor Festus Gontebanye Mogae, whose leadership helped guide the university through its formative years, laying a strong foundation for its current trajectory.
Highlighting recent progress, the Vice Chancellor pointed to key milestones that signal BIUST’s growing influence. These include its inclusion in global university rankings, the graduation of over three thousand students, including postgraduate scholars and the establishment of strategic partnerships with institutions across government, industry, and research.
Among the university’s forward-looking initiatives is the BIUST STEAM Centre, developed in collaboration with STEMpower Incorporated. The Centre is expected to play a pivotal role in expanding access to hands-on science and technology education while inspiring the next generation of innovators.
Quoting Albert Einstein and Carl Sagan, Professor Shemang highlighted the importance of curiosity and discovery in shaping the future, reinforcing the idea that intellectual capital remains the true wealth of modern nations.
He also drew attention to landmark achievements such as BIUST’s contribution to the development of Botswana’s first satellite, BOTSAT-1, and the training of the country’s first Master’s graduates in Drone Technology, initiatives that demonstrate the university’s alignment with national priorities and technological advancement.
Looking ahead, the planned Technology Incubation Park is expected to further strengthen BIUST’s role as a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation, providing a platform for ideas to evolve into impactful enterprises.
As Duma Gideon Boko assumes his role as Chancellor, the university leadership expressed confidence in a future marked by continued growth, resilience, and global competitiveness. The moment signals not just continuity in governance, but a renewed commitment to aligning academic excellence with Botswana’s broader development goals.
In charting this path forward, BIUST is positioning itself as more than an academic institution, it is emerging as a catalyst for innovation, a driver of industrial progress, and a cornerstone of Botswana’s knowledge economy.