First university innovation pod launched in Botswana

Ahunna Eziakonwa (5th L), assistant secretary general and regional director for UNDP Africa, Justin Hunyepa (6th L, Front), Botswana's assistant minister of higher education, and guests pose for a group photo during the launch of a University Innovation Pod (UniPod) in Gaborone, Botswana, on Dec. 16, 2024. Botswana launched its first University Innovation Pod (UniPod) Monday, with the goal of empowering young people, encouraging innovation and transforming creative ideas into real, marketable solutions. (Photo by Tshekiso Tebalo/Xinhua)

GABORONE, Dec. 17 (Xinhua) -- Botswana launched its first University Innovation Pod (UniPod) Monday, with the goal of empowering young people, encouraging innovation and transforming creative ideas into real, marketable solutions.

The initiative is a collaboration between the University of Botswana, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the Botswana Institute of Science and Technology, and the Ministry of Higher Education. Following months of preparation, the facility is expected to promote Botswana's economic development by bridging the gap between higher education and industry.

Equipped with makerspaces, fabrication laboratories, co-working spaces and creative studios, the UniPod provides the tools and resources necessary to drive innovation. With access to advanced technologies such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and prototyping materials, innovators will be able to experiment, create and refine their ideas. The UNDP has invested about 1.4 million U.S. dollars in the program.

Speaking at the launch ceremony held in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, Ahunna Eziakonwa, assistant secretary general and regional director for UNDP Africa, said that the UniPod will assist African entrepreneurs in creating jobs and addressing issues that African communities face, such as climate change.

Justin Hunyepa, assistant minister of higher education, said that the facility will provide Batswana with ideas and concepts to gain access to modern equipment, experimentation, prototyping and market access. He said the initiative is consistent with Botswana's vision of becoming a knowledge-driven and innovation-led economy.

A University Innovation Pod (UniPod) is seen during the launch in Gaborone, Botswana, on Dec. 16, 2024. Botswana launched its first University Innovation Pod (UniPod) Monday, with the goal of empowering young people, encouraging innovation and transforming creative ideas into real, marketable solutions. (Photo by Tshekiso Tebalo/Xinhua)