From mineral to knowledge-led economy

Torto
Torto

Improving research and innovation has been identified as key in transforming the country's economy from mineral- led to knowledge led. With Botswana's competence in research and development in terms of investment, private sector involvement and human resource rated very low, government has tasked the Botswana Institute of Technology, Research and Innovation (BITRI). Business Week correspondent KEIKANTSE LESEMELA meets BITRI chief executive, Nelson Torto as he explains the efforts in driving innovation and research.

BusinessWeek: How does BITRI foster research and innovation?

Torto: At BITRI, we conduct needs-based technology research that provides sustainable innovative solutions through co-creation and collaboration. Because we are a research organisation for Botswana we are driven by the values of Batswana and thus through a value gap analysis approach, we are able to identify areas of need. We believe in working together with Batswana to create products as well as linking up with other key players in the technology research domain so as to enhance our efforts.

Editor's Comment
Gov't, unions must find common ground

The situation is exacerbated by the ruling party’s admission that some of its most important election promises remain unfulfilled. This is not the change many Batswana had expected. The UDC was elected into power on a strong promise to improve lives, create jobs, protect workers and repair public services. It is therefore, not enough for the party to point only to new ministries, policies and long-term plans. These may be necessary, but...

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