The Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) hosted internationally acclaimed robotics expert Bradley Nelson for a public seminar and live demonstration on the future of micro-robotics in stroke treatment on Thursday, 26 February 2026.
Professor Nelson, who serves as Professor of Robotics and Intelligent Systems at ETH Zürich, delivered a presentation entitled “Micro-robot Telesurgery for Stroke.” He is listed in the Guinness World Records for developing the “Most Advanced Mini Robot for Medical Use,” underscoring his global standing in the field of medical robotics.
The seminar attracted students, researchers, academics, healthcare professionals, and industry stakeholders eager to witness cutting-edge innovation in action. A key highlight of the event was a live telesurgery demonstration using the Navion system — an advanced robotic platform located at ETH Zürich in Switzerland and remotely controlled in real time from BIUST’s Boikago Conference Room.
The demonstration showcased the transformative potential of micro-robotic technologies to perform precise, minimally invasive procedures for stroke treatment. By enabling cross-border surgical collaboration, the technology opens new frontiers in global healthcare delivery, particularly for time-critical conditions such as stroke.
In his presentation, Professor Nelson emphasized that stroke remains the second leading cause of death worldwide and requires urgent medical intervention to prevent severe disability or loss of life. He explained that patients in remote or underserved clinics often lack immediate access to specialist care, resulting in dangerous treatment delays. Through micro-robotic telesurgery powered by reliable internet connectivity, expert doctors and surgical teams in major hospitals can guide and perform delicate procedures from afar, ensuring patients receive timely and potentially life-saving treatment.
Professor Nelson highlighted how combining robotic technology with skilled neurosurgeons and medical teams could dramatically improve patient outcomes. By connecting advanced medical centers with local clinics, this approach seeks to eliminate geographical barriers and ensure equitable access to specialized stroke care.
Speaking at the event, BIUST Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation, Professor Abraham Attah Ogwu, said the seminar reflected the university’s growing internationalization agenda. He described the initiative as a groundbreaking, affordable, and innovative way of bridging gaps within the global village. He added that BIUST was established to address real-life challenges through research and innovation, making platforms of this nature both timely and relevant.
The event reaffirmed BIUST’s commitment to advancing research, innovation, and international collaboration in science, engineering, and technology. By hosting global leaders in robotics and medical innovation, the university continues to strengthen its position as a regional hub for cutting-edge research and knowledge exchange.