Officials said there are already greenshoots in research and development, curriculum review, and human capital advancement, reinforcing the importance of academia industry collaboration in strengthening Botswana’s mining sector after the two teamed together. Speaking at the renewal of the MoU last week, Debswana managing director, Andrew Motsomi, said the relationship has made significant progress in addressing complex operational challenges. Amongst the most notable achievements is the development of predictive models for blast impacts and slope stability in open-pit mines using machine learning technologies. “This is testament to the power of innovation through collaboration,” he said. “These interventions not only enhance operational safety but also position us at the forefront of data-driven mining practices.” The collaboration has expanded into critical areas such as mining waste and residue characterisation and management. Through focused research and innovative methodologies, the two institutions have improved how residues are identified, classified and managed, contributing to safer and more sustainable operations. Groundwater modelling and predictive simulations have also become a key focus. A precise understanding of groundwater systems is essential for operational efficiency, environmental protection and managing community impact. The joint work in this area supports responsible mining practices while safeguarding surrounding ecosystems. Another promising research stream involves identifying alternative and sustainable methods for discarding fine residue generated during kimberlite ore processing. If successful, the innovation could represent a global first in the mining industry, marking a significant milestone for both BIUST and Debswana. The formal working relationship between the two institutions began soon after BIUST became operational. The first MoU, signed in 2019, completed a successful five-year term in 2024. Its performance laid the groundwork for the renewal and expansion of the partnership. BIUST Vice Chancellor, Professor Otlogetswe Totolo, described the renewed agreement as a reaffirmation of a shared vision to advance science, engineering and innovation through active collaboration between academia and industry to support national economic development. “As a university devoted to excellence in science and technology, BIUST remains steadfast in its commitment to producing globally competitive graduates, conducting impactful research, and driving innovation that responds directly to the evolving needs of industry and society,” he said. Totolo added that as a research-intensive institution, BIUST is dedicated to fostering industry-relevant research and developing highly skilled graduates capable of driving industrialisation and economic diversification in Botswana. The renewed agreement significantly broadens the scope of cooperation. Unlike the earlier arrangement, which was limited in focus, the current framework allows collaboration across a wider range of initiatives. It provides greater flexibility and strengthens the potential for a more meaningful and impactful partnership, including the development of skills aligned with Debswana’s current and future projects.
For students, the partnership offers real-world exposure, practical training and opportunities to apply academic knowledge to complex industrial challenges. For the academic community, it provides a platform for applied, relevant research. For Debswana, it ensures continued access to cutting-edge expertise and a pipeline of highly skilled graduates. The ongoing collaboration has also been supported by funding for several high-impact initiatives. These include the development of artificial intelligence models to predict blasting outcomes; water quality assessments and their impact on ore processing and plant infrastructure; process mineralogy studies; slurry and slimes characterisation; predictive modelling of blast-induced ground vibration, rock fragmentation and pit wall stability; and the production of dry fines clay bricks from kimberlite waste and overburden rock
