Are academics failing us? A claim has been made that academics are failing the nation; by academics here referring to UB academics. This claim must be met head on with facts because it is nonsensical. Those who point an accusatory finger at UB academics do two things: they ignore glaring facts before them and know minimally about what UB academics do. So it is important to state what academics do. They do three things. First they teach, train or lecture. Second they research and publish. Finally, they serve in boards, professional bodies and university committees. As Botswana’s only university for a long time, UB has been the principal trainer of Botswana’s human resources. Many of Botswana’s politicians have been trained by UB academics amongst these Mr Motswaledi, Saleshando, Boko, Joina, Seretse, Ntuane, Motlhala and many others. The current Attorney General, Dr. Athalia Molokomme, the Assistant Minister in the Office of the President, Dr Gloria Somolekae, Dr Mooko the Deputy P.S. in the Ministry of Education & Judge Key Dingake are all former UB academics who are now serving the nation in other capacities. Some have joined international bodies such as CODESRIA & OSISA. Over 90% of the senior secondary school teachers were trained by UB academics. UB academics have trained managers, economists, journalists, engineers, environmental scientists and many others. So, on the matter of training, UB academics have been outstanding. Recently UB is moving from a largely teaching institutio to a research intensive institution. UB academics have therefore been on the forefront of national research. There is NO institution or body in Botswana that does as much research as UB academics. UB produces the largest body of knowledge which is found in academic papers & books across most disciplines. Their research has informed government policy and assisted in the implementation of numerous national projects. The partnership between UB academics and international institutions such as UPenn, Cambridge & Oxford shows that UB academicss are comparable to academics in many international institutions. UB academics also serve in regional & international professional bodies. Are they perfect? NO! They have their own weaknesses and limitations. However, their contribution to the development of the country should not be diminished.
Posted on: Sat, 17 Aug 2013 19:30:10 +0000
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