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Botswana International University Of Science & Technology

The Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) was established by an Act of Parliament in 2011 as Botswana’s first specialised university dedicated to science, engineering, and technology. Located in Palapye, Botswana, the university was created to support the country’s transition towards a knowledge-based economy by producing highly skilled graduates, advancing scientific research, and fostering technological innovation. Since its establishment, BIUST has become a key contributor to Botswana’s national development strategy through education, research, and collaboration with industry and government.

BIUST was founded with the vision of becoming a world-class institution of higher learning specialising in science, engineering, technology, and innovation. The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across engineering, science, information and communication technology, earth sciences, and related disciplines. Through a strong emphasis on research-led teaching and interdisciplinary collaboration, BIUST seeks to address regional and global challenges while contributing to sustainable economic growth throughout Botswana and the Southern African region.

The university has developed modern teaching, laboratory, and research facilities that support both academic excellence and industrial collaboration. BIUST actively promotes partnerships with local industries, government agencies, international universities, and research organisations to strengthen innovation capacity and facilitate technology transfer. These collaborations enable students and researchers to work on practical engineering and scientific challenges with direct societal and industrial impact.

Within the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, BIUST has established research groups and specialised laboratories focused on advanced manufacturing, materials engineering, mechanical engineering, automation, renewable energy, and industrial systems. These facilities support cutting-edge research while providing opportunities for postgraduate training and industry-focused innovation. The university continues to invest in advanced technologies that enhance manufacturing capabilities and contribute to the development of engineering expertise within Botswana.

BIUST is committed to advancing research, entrepreneurship, and innovation through multidisciplinary projects that address national priorities such as industrialisation, sustainable resource utilisation, energy security, and infrastructure development. By nurturing highly skilled scientists, engineers, and innovators, the university plays an important role in supporting Botswana’s Vision 2036 and strengthening the country’s competitiveness in science and technology.

As a leading science and technology institution in the region, BIUST continues to expand its international partnerships and research collaborations, providing a platform for knowledge exchange, technology development, and capacity building across Africa and beyond. Through its emphasis on research excellence, innovation, and industry engagement, the university is helping to develop the next generation of engineers and scientists capable of addressing the technological challenges of the future.

SME2KE Team Member Role
Eyitayo Olatunde Olakanmi
Associate Professor & UNESCO Chair on Sustainable Manufacturing & Innovation Technologies (UCoSMIT)
Project Coordinator
Email: olakanmie@biust.ac.bw
Mrs Gadibotsile Chakandinakira
Directorate, Internationalisation, Linkages & Partnerships
Project manager
Email: chakandinakirag@biust.ac.bw
Dr. Malau-Modiega Phetolo
Director, Quality Assurance
Quality Assurance
Dr. Prasad Raghupatruni
Senior Lecturer, Metallurgical & Materials Engineering
Academic expert & module developer
Dr. Keagisitswe Setswalo
Lecturer, Mechanical & Energy Engineering
Academic expert & module developer
Dr. Tshenolo Phinah Leso
Lecturer, Metallurgical & Materials Engineering
Academic expert & module developer
Mrs Thato Kemoitse
ICT Technician, Directorate of Information Communication Technology
Learning Technologist
Mrs Kafuti Ngele
ICT Technician, Directorate of Information Communication Technology
Learning Technologist