On 2 April, 2007 H.E. Mr. Oscar Motswagae, Ambassador of the Republic of Botswana to Japan, accompanied by Ms Taboka Matlhabaphiri, First Secretary, visited AIT to discuss Science and Technology for development in Africa issues.
They were welcomed by an AIT team composed of Prof. Vilas Wuwongse, Vice President-External Relations, Ambassador (Rtd.) Yoon Jee-joon, Chairperson of Asia-africa Initiative for Higher Learning in Science and Technology for Development; Dr. Roland Amoussou-Guenou, Manager, Asia-africa Initiative for Higher Learning in Science and Technology for Development; Prof. Stephen Ogunlana, and Mrs. Naina Shakya, ERCO.
Ambassador Motswagae expressed his interest to have AIT as a partner in the process of establishing a new university, “International University of Science and Technology” which will start the operation in 2009. He also seek the support from AIT in human resource development and capacity building process in the country due to recent developments in higher education in Botswana.
He added that during the last five years the Government of Botswana has intensified its scholarship program for Botswana students in various countries around the world. Though this plan is very costly for the national budget, it is intended to be carried out for the time being. He further questioned on how the Government cooperates with AIT, what opportunities AIT can offer in terms of scholarships, and how the Royal Thai Government can assist Botswana and AIT in this cooperation.
Prof. Vilas later made a presentation of AIT academic programs and structure, followed by an open discussion on the AIT tuition fees and cost of living in Thailand, compared to studying in other Asian countries.
Dr. Roland then presented the “Asia-africa Initiative for Higher Learning in Science and Technology for Development” concept paper, proposing that Botswana be used as a case-study for a joint AIT-Africa Forum planned to be held in 2008. The idea was supported by Ambassador Mr. Oscar Motswagae who also mentioned that the approach of Botswana goes beyond higher learning and also touches upon business opportunities, transfer of knowledge and appropriate technology and other commercial issues.
Dr. Roland also proposed that a need assessment or a study visit be conducted in Botswana to prepare a “country report” on science and technology that can document the case of this country under the Asia-Africa framework.
Ambassador Yoon suggested the idea to plan an official visit of AIT President to Africa.