Signing documents for Unipod is UNDP Resident Representative Mr Balazs Horvath, Education PS, Bonolo Khumotaka and UB Vice Chancellor Prof. David Norris
By Dr Faith Rapuleng-Tuelo*
Botswana’s first University Innovation Pod (UniPod) will be officially launched this afternoon (Monday 16th December 2024) at 1500hrs, at the University of Botswana Innovation Centre, Block 222.
The Minister of Higher Education, Mr Mooketsi Prince Maele, will perform the official launch. The UniPod is a state-of-the-art innovation hub designed to empower youth, foster creativity and transform ground-breaking ideas into practical, market-ready solutions.
Following months of preparation since its ground-breaking ceremony in October 2024, the facility is set to revolutionise Botswana’s economic development by bridging the gap between higher education and industry.
Equipped with makerspaces, fabrication laboratories (Fab Labs), co-working spaces and creative studios, the UniPod provides the tools and resources necessary to drive innovation.
With access to advanced technologies such as 3D printers, laser cutters and prototyping materials, innovators will be able to experiment, create and refine their ideas.
The UniPod will also host mentorship programmes, entrepreneurship courses and collaborative opportunities with industry experts to ensure young creators have the support and guidance they need to transform concepts into thriving businesses.
During a recent site visit, UNDP Resident Representative Mr Balazs Horvath commended the progress of the UniPod, stating, “The UniPod represents a pivotal step in Botswana’s journey towards fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.”
Today’s launch event will feature keynote addresses from dignitaries and stakeholders, guided tours showcasing the UniPod’s cutting-edge facilities and opportunities for interviews with key stakeholders including policymakers, academics and innovators.
The launch marks a significant milestone in Botswana’s quest to become a global leader in innovation-driven economic growth and sustainable development.
The UniPod is a collaboration between the University of Botswana (UB), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) and other key stakeholders.
About the University of Botswana
The University of Botswana is a leading institution of higher learning in Botswana, committed to providing quality education, research, and service to the nation and beyond.
The University seeks to improve economic and social conditions for advancing itself as a distinctively African university with regional and international outlook.
- Dr Faith Rapuleng-Tuelo is UB’s Director of Public Affairs
