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YAL SMART – PAVING THE WAY FOR THE KNOWLEDGE GENERATION
Professor Doreen Ramogola-Masire, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Enterprise at the University of Botswana, highlighted the significance of collaborations and knowledge sharing in the University’s strategy to shape the future for the knowledge generation. She made these remarks during a roundtable discussion held at the University’s council chambers, focusing on “Advancing STEM Education and SMART Infrastructure Development for Youth Empowerment in Africa.” The event celebrated the successful completion of the YAL SMART innovative boot camp by the Young African Leaders.
The roundtable discussion was a key part of the YAL SMART academic research project, which received funding from the Alliance for African Partnership. The official title of the project is “US-Botswana collaborative research on youth development and education: SMART Infrastructure and mobility innovation for resilient community health.” Michigan State University leads the project, with the University of Botswana and knowledge management company Infers Group acting as project partners.
The discussions delved into exploring the relationship between infrastructure advancement and its impact on growth, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, education, community resilience, and development. The participants leveraged innovative approaches, accessible technology, and a leapfrogging model to enhance local infrastructure not only in Botswana but also across Africa.
Professor Doreen Ramogola-Masire emphasized that their office’s primary focus is on facilitating, supporting, and advocating for research that spans across regions and has international relevance.
EVERYONE IS OUR AUDIENCE – Dr. NIZAR LAJNEF
Dr. Nizar Lajnef, the Principal Investigator from Michigan State University, emphasized that a country’s economy thrives on its infrastructure and, most importantly, the health and well-being of its population. The YAL SMART project is specifically geared towards addressing these aspects, with a strong emphasis on the youth, who are the future innovators capable of driving advancements in technology and innovation.
Distinguished speakers graced the roundtable discussion, which was skillfully moderated by Setho Mongatane, the host of Gabz Fm’s Breakfast in HD. Among the notable speakers were Professor Leapetswe Malete (Co-Principal Investigator, Michigan State University), Dr. Phillimon Odirile (Principal Investigator, University of Botswana), Mr. Diane Mongudi (CEO, Botswana Digital and Innovation Hub), Dr. Fernando Siamisang (Director of Human Resource Development Planning at HRDC), Dr. Gloria Somolekae (BIDPA), as well as representatives from the Ministry of Youth, Gender, Sport, and Culture, UB office for research and development, and the UB Department of Public Affairs, along with associated University Faculties.
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