Ba Isago, HATAB join forces to improve tourism sector
Larona Makhaiza | Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:05
The two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday, marking what they described as a significant milestone in developing a more skilled and industry-ready workforce for one of Botswana's key economic sectors.
As per the duo, the partnership will focus on professional training and skills development programmes, curriculum development aligned with industry needs, collaborative research, public awareness and advocacy initiatives, as well as strategic industry engagement and knowledge exchange.
BA ISAGO University managing director, Odirile Gabasiane, explained the agreement was the realisation of a vision that had been in the making since 2023.
He said the university, through its Centre for Professional Development and Consultancy (CPDC), was fully prepared to deliver on the objectives of the partnership.
'What has been a dream since 2023 has finally come to fruition. Through the CPDC, we are ready to execute this mandate and contribute meaningfully to the growth of Botswana's hospitality and tourism sector,' he said during the signing ceremony.
HATAB CEO, Lily Rakorong, noted the agreement would bridge the gap between academia and industry by creating practical opportunities for students whilst helping to address skills shortages within the sector.
She noted the collaboration would facilitate structured internships, work-integrated learning programmes and other initiatives designed to strengthen the industry's human capital.
'The partnership also seeks to explore opportunities for student internships, work-integrated learning and other mutually beneficial initiatives that strengthen the industry's human capital development,' Rakorong said.
She added that the two organisations would continue identifying additional areas of collaboration through mutual consultation and written agreements as the partnership evolves.
Officials from both organisations expressed confidence that the collaboration would improve professional standards within Botswana's hospitality and tourism industry whilst ensuring graduates are equipped with skills that respond to current industry demands.
The partnership is also expected to support research and innovation, encourage greater engagement between academia and industry stakeholders, and contribute to Botswana's broader economic development through a stronger tourism workforce.
HATAB said the agreement forms part of its wider strategy to elevate standards within the hospitality and tourism industry by forging partnerships with educational institutions capable of producing highly skilled professionals.
Both organisations believe the collaboration will deliver long-term benefits for students, tourism professionals and the country's economy as Botswana continues positioning tourism as a key driver of economic diversification.