Good Health and Well-Being
About SDG 3
Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3) aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all ages. It emphasizes access to quality healthcare, disease prevention, mental health, and universal health coverage. Globally, challenges include communicable and non-communicable diseases, maternal and child mortality, and mental health concerns.
In Botswana, Vision 2036 underscores the importance of a healthy, productive population as a foundation for sustainable development. National Development Plan 12 (NDP 12) (2025–2030) operationalizes this vision through its People Empowerment Pillar, focusing on equitable access to healthcare, health promotion, and social protection.
BIUST’s Contribution to SDG 3
The Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) promotes health and well-being as an essential component of human capital development and national progress. Its contributions include:
- Partnerships with local and national health institutions to raise awareness on hygiene, nutrition, reproductive health, and mental wellness.
- Community engagement programs that extend beyond campus to surrounding areas.
- Free access to sports and recreation facilities for students and staff promotes active lifestyles.
- Nominal access for local community members fosters inclusive wellness initiatives.
- Sexual and reproductive health education and services for students support informed and responsible choices.
- Awareness campaigns, counseling services, and partnerships with medical aid providers ensure psychosocial support.
- Programs are inclusive of vulnerable and refugee populations, reinforcing equity and social protection.
- Opportunities to expand health-related research using BIUST’s STEM expertise, including medical technology, public health solutions, and wellness innovations.
Evidence and Initiatives
- BIUST Health Outreach Programs – Community engagement and wellness campaigns
- BIUST Sports and Recreation Facilities – Promoting physical fitness and active lifestyles
- Student Counseling and Mental Health Services – Psychosocial support for students and staff
Alignment with Botswana’s NDP 12 and Vision 2036
- NDP 12 emphasizes health as a cornerstone of human and social development, promoting equitable access to healthcare, preventive strategies, and wellness initiatives.
- Vision 2036 envisions a healthy, educated, and productive population capable of sustaining national development.
- Strengthening primary healthcare and disease prevention.
- Expanding mental health and wellness programs.
- Enhancing access to youth-friendly and reproductive health services.
- Promoting physical fitness and community wellness initiatives.
- Integrates wellness and health awareness into campus life.
- Partners with health institutions for outreach programs and public education.
- Extends sports and recreational facilities to local communities.
- Supports mental health and well-being through structured programs and policies.
Alignment with BIUST Transformative Strategy 2023–2028
The BIUST Transformative Strategy 2023–2028 emphasizes research excellence, innovation, and societal impact. Contributions to SDG 3 include:
- Leveraging STEM research to develop health technologies and preventive health solutions.
- Implementing interdisciplinary programs to promote physical, mental, and social well-being.
- Fostering community engagement initiatives that advance national health priorities.
- Enhancing human capital development by ensuring students and staff are healthy and productive.
Impact and Strategic Importance
- Human Capital Development: Healthy students and staff improve learning outcomes, innovation, and productivity.
- Community Engagement: Outreach programs extend BIUST’s impact beyond campus, supporting regional and national health goals.
- Research and Innovation: BIUST’s STEM-driven research provides tools and solutions for public health and wellness.
- National and Regional Alignment: Initiatives support NDP 12 and Vision 2036 Pillar 1 (Sustainable Economic Development) and contribute to broader SDG targets.
Forward-Looking Commitment
BIUST remains committed to advancing SDG 3 through its teaching, research, and community engagement. By aligning with national priorities and its transformative strategy, the University continues to contribute to healthy, resilient, and inclusive communities in Botswana.