The Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) recently held its official welcome ceremony for first-year students, marking the beginning of an exciting academic journey for the new cohort. The event, filled with anticipation and celebration, was led by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Otlogetswe Totolo, and the University Secretary & Registrar, Mr. Kevin Masupe, both of whom delivered inspiring addresses that reflected BIUST’s vision, values, and commitment to student success.
In his welcoming remarks, Mr. Masupe encouraged students to see themselves as part of a global learning community. He reminded them that BIUST is an international university that attracts leading academics and top-performing students from across Botswana and beyond. He underscored the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and discipline, pointing out that these qualities would help them excel not only at BIUST but also in their future careers. Mr. Masupe emphasized that the University is deeply invested in producing graduates who are both academically excellent and ready to make meaningful contributions to industry and society.
Professor Totolo, in his keynote address, echoed this message while placing emphasis on the University’s powerful slogan, “Driving Change”. He congratulated the students for earning their place at BIUST, noting that admission is highly competitive and reserved for top achievers from the BGCSE. This selectiveness, he explained, ensures that BIUST continues to distinguish itself as Botswana’s leading research-intensive university, building a reputation for excellence that extends beyond national borders.
One of the highlights of Professor Totolo’s speech was his celebration of a historic milestone at the University, the election of BIUST’s first-ever female-led Student Representative Council (SRC). Out of the 14 student ministers, 10 are women, a remarkable achievement that demonstrates both student empowerment and the University’s progressive environment.
The Vice Chancellor also shared some of BIUST’s proud achievements, including being ranked the best university in Botswana by Times Higher Education for two consecutive years. He urged students to take pride in this accomplishment and to recognize their role in maintaining and elevating the University’s standing. “Excellence is a collective effort,” he reminded them, “and every student has a part to play in sustaining the standards that have earned BIUST recognition on the global stage.”
Turning his message to personal growth and responsibility, Professor Totolo offered guidance to the new students on navigating university life. He encouraged them to manage their time wisely, to make choices that reflect integrity and discipline, and to take full advantage of the University’s support systems—from academic mentorship to student wellness programs. He also cautioned them against negative influences such as drug abuse, reminding them that their future success depends on the decisions they make today.
In his closing words, Professor Totolo painted a vision of what it means to be a BIUST graduate: industry-ready, innovative, ethical, and committed to driving Botswana’s transformation into a knowledge-based economy. “BIUST graduates,” he said, “are highly commended for their knowledge, their values, and their contributions to society. You are now part of that legacy, and I encourage you to make the most of the opportunities before you.”
The event concluded with a sense of pride and optimism as students, staff, and faculty looked forward to another year of excellence. For the new cohort, the ceremony was not only a warm welcome but also a powerful reminder of the role they will play in shaping both their own futures and that of the nation