The Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI) recently hosted the US Military Research delegation comprising representatives from the US Embassy, AFRICOM, DEVCOM, Army Africa, and the Florida International University. The delegation was led by the AFRICOM Science and Technology Advisor, Mr. Peter Tiel, while BITRI Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr. Sebusang Sebusang led a contingent comprising BITRI Management.

Dr Sebusang provided an overview of BITRI detailing key research areas and relevant project. Through this overview, Dr Sebusang opened the way for the US delegation to make their presentations, from whence possible areas of mutual benefit and collaborations were established and discussed.

The presentation by the US delegation was headlined by DEVCOM, the US army organisation for research and development that also supports the US Army’s global mission, helps build capacity, and ensures interoperability. The presentation delved into the capabilities of the company in relation to innovative technology solutions, product design, cloud, DevOps, QA, testing, and IT consultancy services.

In addition, the delegation shared the collaboration, grants, scholarships for the development of junior scientists, and competition opportunities on offer, which BITRI as an institution and the scientists can benefit from. The delegation was also taken on a tour of the Centre for Materials Science, where they learned about the key projects and services provided by the centre.

In his Closing Remarks, the BITRI Executive Director of Natural Resources and Materials, Dr. Mataba Tapela appreciated the visit by the US delegation and expressed optimism in relation to the forging of collaborations on areas that can advance the interests of both parties.