In a momentous gathering at the University of Botswana's Conference Center, a groundbreaking initiative known as the FAST4Future project marked a historic milestone with the launch of Work Package 2. FAST4Future, a project funded by the European Commission, is dedicated to driving innovation, sustainability, and positive change. With a mission to create a brighter and more sustainable future for all, this visionary undertaking has garnered attention and support from across the academic and governmental spectrum. This pivotal phase of the project, dedicated to Planetary, Space Science, and Technology, promises to be a driving force behind Africa's development goals and aligns seamlessly with the strategic goals of the University of Botswana.
The event commenced with a warm welcome from Prof I.B. Masesane, setting the tone for the day. Prof Masesane emphasized the paramount importance of the FAST4Future project and its potential to impact Africa's development positively. He underscored how the project's goals resonated with the broader vision of the University of Botswana.
During the official launch of Work Package 2 of the FAST4Future project, Prof D. Ramogola-Masire, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Enterprise of the University of Botswana, made a resounding pledge of unwavering support. In a stirring address, Prof Ramogola-Masire affirmed the university's commitment to this ambitious endeavor, emphasizing the importance of FAST4Future in advancing Botswana's scientific and technological landscape. Her pledge underscores the university's dedication to fostering innovation, sustainability, and positive change, marking a significant step towards realizing the project's goals. As FAST4Future gains momentum, the Deputy Vice Chancellor's endorsement promises a brighter future for the project and its far-reaching impact.
Prof Fulvio Franchi, the project coordinator, presented an enlightening overview of the FAST4Future project. With its forward-looking initiatives, the project seeks to drive innovation, sustainability, and positive change. By bringing together experts and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, it aims to create a brighter and more sustainable future for all.
Furthermore, Dr Tshiamo Motshegwa, Director of African Open Science Platform (AOSP), stressed that the FAST4Future project leverages space science, digital transformation, and open science for sustainable impact. In a significant stride towards Botswana's and Africa’s development goals, the FAST4Future project, launched today at the University of Botswana, promises a multi-faceted impact. This innovative initiative aligns with Botswana's strategic vision, contributing to the Space Science and Technology Strategy, bolstering the Digital Transformation initiative, and championing the cause of Open Science. With implications spanning cyber infrastructure, education, and regional cooperation, FAST4Future beckons stakeholders to join hands for a sustainable and transformative journey ahead.
Finally, Prof. R. Tabulawa, Director of the Office of Research and Development at the University of Botswana, expressed heartfelt gratitude during the closing moments of the event, acknowledging the collaborative efforts that brought Work Package 2 to fruition.
The launch event was attended by distinguished guests, including representatives from the Ministry of Communication, Knowledge, and Technology, the Ministry of Education, and the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC). Department heads and invited staff members, and FAST4Future team members from the University of Botswana, Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), the University of Nigeria in Nsukka (UNN) and the Centre for Basic Space Science Nsukka-Nigeria (CBSS) also graced the occasion.
FAST4Future, with its emphasis on dissemination, outreach, and sustainability, is poised to make a lasting impact. Work Package 2 is a testament to its commitment to excellence and its dedication to shaping a brighter and more sustainable future for Africa and beyond. As the FAST4Future project unfolds, it carries with it the promise of transformative advancements in planetary, space science, and technology—a journey that holds the potential to reshape the trajectory of development in Africa and contribute to a more sustainable global future.