Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) to Develop Model Farms and Satellite Campuses for Agricultural Transformation

Strategic Insights -

Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) is set to develop model farms around Botswana to leverage technology and innovation in optimizing food production. The university will also establish satellite campuses across the country to deliver vocational programs in agriculture and natural resources. This move is aimed at contributing to Botswana's agricultural transformation and making the country food and nutrition secure.

Key Takeaways:

  • BUAN will establish model farms around Botswana to serve as training facilities for vocational programs and research sites for agricultural transformation.
  • The university plans to develop satellite campuses in the North, South, East, and West of Botswana to deliver vocational programs in agriculture and natural resources.
  • The campuses will focus on upskilling and retooling youth in food production systems to mitigate against youth unemployment and make Botswana food and nutrition secure.
  • Some campuses will specialize in beef production, small-stock production, horticulture, and cereals production.
  • BUAN plans to expand the value chain of its programs in agriculture and make it more appealing and interesting to the youth.
  • The university is undertaking a feasibility study to set up a School of Veterinary Medicine, which will have allied programs like Veterinary Nursing and Veterinary Pharmacology.
  • Agriculture is envisioned as the new diamond for Botswana, with the government aiming to increase its contribution to the National Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from two per cent to at least 10 per cent.

Statistics:

  • Agriculture contributed 40 per cent to Botswana's National Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at independence but has declined to two per cent.
  • The government aims to increase agriculture's contribution to GDP to at least 10 per cent.
  • The first phase of the food processing plant budgeted for P1.3 million will have a food processing plant and sampling of food product facilities.

Sources:

  • [Professor Ketlhatlogile Mosepele, Vice Chancellor of BUAN, officiating at the Nlapkhwane Harvest Day]
  • [Vice Chairperson of TOTUMA Farmers Association, Mr. Paulos Nkoni, encouraging farmers to be active in farming]
  • [Councilor for Mapoka/Nlapkhwane/Masukwane, Mr. Nabulani Lenyatso, thanking farmers for their efforts]