BA ISAGO gets PhD in business
Itumeleng Suping | Wednesday November 26, 2025 06:00
Speaking at the ceremony, the Managing Director, Odirile Gabasiane, described the milestone as 'a defining moment that speaks to who we have become and the institution we strive to be.'
He noted that the introduction of this doctoral programme marks BA ISAGO’s confident entry into the league of research-driven universities and institutions that not only transfer knowledge but also create, redefine, and apply it for national development.
'Today, we mark a moment of historic significance in the life of Baisago University. With this PhD, we join a community of institutions committed to shaping societies through knowledge creation,' Gabasiane said. Gabasiane reflected on the university’s 25-year journey of transformation, underscoring how each step laid the foundation for this achievement.
'From our modest origins in Francistown, with 50 students, we have expanded through seasons of opportunity and challenge. Every programme introduced, every lecturer developed, and every campus established has prepared us for this moment,' he elaborated.
He emphasised that the launch of the PhD represents a turning point in the institution’s academic identity, positioning BA ISAGO as a leader not only in teaching excellence but also in research output and intellectual influence. This evolution aligns with the university’s ongoing strategy of programme diversification.
'Each programme has been shaped by experience, stakeholder consultation and alignment with national goals,' Gabasiane noted. 'A major pillar of the PhD is its alignment with Botswana’s Vision 2036,' the MD highlighted the nation’s ambition to transition into a knowledge-driven, high-income economy.
'The PhD is a direct contribution to this national vision,' he said, emphasising its role in strengthening human capital, research capability, and innovation. Quality assurance stood as another key highlight of the address. The programme has been fully accredited by the Botswana Qualifications Authority after a rigorous evaluation.
'Accreditation confirms the programme’s credibility and assures our stakeholders that it meets national and international expectations,' Gabasiane stated. The MD further underscored the role of research and innovation in national progress.
'Innovation and research are the foundations of modern economic development. The PhD is designed to reinforce collaboration between academia, industry and government, ensuring that research emerging from Baisago is practical, relevant and responsive,' he said.
Gabasiane said the programme is a national asset, emphasising its potential to produce leaders and thinkers Botswana needs. 'As BA ISAGO embraces this new phase, the university commits to expanding its research agenda, strengthening partnerships and contributing meaningfully to national development,' he said.