News

University of Botswana (UB) Chancellor, Ms Tebelelo Seretse, is on a highly significant week-long networking engagement in Vietnam. Among her key engagements are attending a major Sports Economy Conference and an international boxing tournament, where she will support one of Botswana’s top professional boxers, Moabi Ngaka, who is scheduled to fight on the 3rd of August 2024.

The visit further underscores the University of Botswana’s commitment to addressing critical national challenges, with a particular focus on exploring innovative solutions for youth unemployment.

It is therefore against this background that in order to mitigate the high levels of youth unemployment, the University of Botswana has identified sports as a promising sector for economic growth and social development. To that end, Ms Seretse emphasised that the University has the requisite expertise to lead the nation in leveraging the sports industry for economic expansion and job creation.

"Professional sport, including boxing, has the potential to alleviate social ills and generate employment," stated Ms Seretse. That is because with appropriate infrastructure and accreditation from international bodies, Botswana can host major global events. In turn, such would generate a positive economic ripple effect, boosting tourism and stimulating broader economic growth.

With the Chancellor in Vietnam to support one of Botswana’s top professional boxers, it is clear that professional boxing can generate numerous opportunities for young people, including athletes, support staff, and event organisers. The success of such initiatives can foster a thriving sports economy, ultimately driving wider economic growth and benefits.

Consequently, by participating in the Sports Economy Conference in Vietnam, the Chancellor sought to gather insights and best practices that could be adapted to Botswana's context. As such, the UB delegation engaged with international experts to learn about successful sports programmes and their economic impact in other countries. Such exchange of knowledge is essential for developing strategies that can drive economic growth and create opportunities within Botswana's sports sector.

The Chancellor's visit underscores the importance of establishing robust infrastructure and obtaining international accreditation. Such measures are critical if for Botswana were to become a competitive player on the global sports stage. Hosting international events would not only highlight Botswana's sporting talent but also attract tourists, stimulate local businesses as well as foster a vibrant sports tourism sector.

The University of Botswana’s proactive initiative to address youth unemployment through sports highlights its strategic role in driving national development. By investing in sport and leveraging international partnerships, the University is positioning itself as a leader in creating sustainable economic opportunities for the youth of Botswana.

With a clear vision and strong commitment, sport can certainly serve as a catalyst for economic transformation and social advancement in Botswana. Such potential is further supported by the University of Botswana's offering of a Degree programme in Sports Science, which aligns with and reinforces this strategic objective.