Ministry of Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Technology (Botswana)

The Ministry of Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Technology leads Botswana’s national efforts to advance research, science, and technology. Its vision is to drive sustainable development through research that benefits the economy and improves the quality of life for all Batswana.

The Ministry aims to build a robust research and innovation ecosystem. This includes effective research management and increasing the impact of science and technology on national development. By promoting collaboration across sectors, the Ministry ensures that research aligns with Botswana’s development goals.

Establishing the Botswana National Research Fund

Plans are underway to launch the Botswana National Research Fund (BNRF). The Fund will serve as a key pillar in the country’s science and innovation ecosystem. Its responsibilities will include developing a national research strategy and fostering partnerships between the government, private sector, and international stakeholders.

The BNRF will also facilitate cross-border collaboration with other countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Its creation is a significant step toward a coordinated and strategic approach to research funding and innovation in Botswana.

A Member of the SGCI Since 2016

Botswana has been a member of the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) since 2016. The SGCI works to strengthen the institutional capacities of Science Granting Councils across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Through this partnership, Botswana has benefited from training in research management, ethics, and intellectual property. It has also collaborated with 12 other countries on joint research projects, such as a funding call with the Research Council of Zimbabwe (RCZ).

The SGCI’s strategic support extends beyond financial aid. It builds the institutional capacity needed to manage research effectively. This includes developing skills in grant management, monitoring and evaluation, and policy development.

Botswana hosted the SGCI Annual Forum in Gaborone in 2024, welcoming participants from across the region to exchange insights and best practices.

Leadership Perspective: Research funding creating impactful outcomes in Botswana

In an insightful interview, Lesego Thamae, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Botswana Ministry of Communications, Knowledge and Technology, highlights how Botswana is making concrete impact through research and innovation.