13 Oct 2024

Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) Class of 2024 has been encouraged to use the knowledge acquired to create innovative solutions that would drive the country towards a prosperous future.

Delivering a keynote address during the 7^th BUAN graduation ceremony, at Royal Aria, in Tlokweng Friday, Botswana Development Corporation (BDC) Chief Executive Officer, Mr Cross Kgosidiile said the graduates were key towards achievement of the country’s economic diversification and sustainable development agendas.

“We need you to lead the country’s transformation journey as the torch bearers of innovation, technology and sustainability,” he said and noted that agriculture and natural resources have always been the backbone of the country’s economy..

Mr Kgosidiile said global challenges that the country was faced with, whether in food security, climate change or sustainable development required innovative solutions and BUAN graduates held the key to unlocking them.

“In line with President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi’s Reset and Reclaim Agenda, your role is critical in transforming the economy towards a mindset change that emphasises forward thinking, agility and resilience,” he said.

He said BDC, as the country’s investment arm and development finance institution, was committed to supporting innovations.

Mr Kgosidiile said BDC was actively involved in the country’s economic development in alignment with National Vision 2036, which aspired to achieve prosperity for all.

In his welcome remarks, BUAN Vice Chancellor, Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele said the institution needed to execute its mandate optimally for the country to reach 2036 and move beyond.

He expressed concern that the country was faced with a challenge of high import bill, which was P14 billion per annum.

This, he said was a key indicator of the challenge faced by the country of food and nutrition insecurities.

Additionally, he said the total value of imports in the agriculture and natural resource sector was also P17 billion, per annum.

Prof Mosepele encouraged graduates to capitalise on their competitive advantage, by leveraging on technological skills they acquired and taking advantage of value chains across these sectors.

“I urge you to aspire for entrepreneurship first and employment last,” he advised.

The BUAN Class of 2024 valedictorian from Faculty of Agribusiness, Education and Extension, Mr Petros Khundu walked away with prize money of P20 000 and P5 000, from Standard Chartered Bank Botswana and Botswana Teaching Professionals Council, respectively.

In recognition of his outstanding performance, Mr Khundu also received a Faculty of Agribusiness, Education and Extension dean’s award.

He expressed gratitude to his lectures and everyone who contributed towards his achievements.

The event saw a total of 246 graduates being conferred with degrees, master’s and PhDs in different fields.

The Vice President and also BUAN Chancellor, Mr Slumber Tsogwane graced the graduation ceremony themed: Producing Innovative Graduates and Technological Solutions in Agriculture and Natural Resources for Sustainable Development. Ends