The Botswana Satellite-1 (BOTSAT-1) scholarship programme, hosted jointly by the Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN), the University of Botswana (UB), and the Okavango Research Institute (ORI), invites applications from qualified candidates passionate about satellite technology, space exploration, and research-driven initiatives. This scholarship offers a unique platform for students to engage in innovative research and contribute to advancing satellite technology in Botswana.
About BOTSAT-1
The BOTSAT project, hosted at the Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), aims to launch a CubeSat named BOTSAT-1. Furthermore, this satellite will support agriculture, urban planning, and environmental conservation applications, including commercialising BOTSAT-1 products and services. One of the project’s key goals is Human Capital Development, which is expected to benefit various government ministries. The main payload of the BOTSAT-1 satellite is a hyperspectral camera with over 120 spectrum channels, enabling researchers to observe various Earth areas of interest. While the satellite is scheduled for launch in February 2025 on SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, the BOTSAT ground station can be configured to receive images from other satellites, allowing researchers to continue their work. In addition, the initiative was commissioned by the President of Botswana, Dr M.E.K. Masisi, in 2020.
Scholarship Details
- Scholarships cover tuition fees, a monthly stipend, research funding, and travel necessary for field research or international collaboration (subject to availability of funds).
- Scholarships typically cover the full period of postgraduate study, subject to satisfactory progress based on monthly progress reports and presentations.
- Candidates will conduct research primarily focused on the scientific applications and beneficial uses of satellite data.
- Candidates will receive guidance from respective institutions’ supervisors, experienced researchers, and industry professionals.
- Resources and facilities include access to state-of-the-art resources and facilities at BIUST, BUAN, UB, and ORI.
Eligibility Criteria
- Citizens of Botswana only
- Age range of 18-35 years
Prospective candidates must:
- Qualify for enrollment in a postgraduate program at BIUST, BUAN, UB, or ORI in fields related to the BOTSAT-1 project objectives, such as satellite technology, remote sensing, or data analytics,
- Demonstrate high academic achievements as proven by a strong academic record (minimum of Second Class First Division at the undergraduate level) or equivalent,
- Demonstrate research capacity and aptitude, and
- Applicants must be have interest in satellite technology or related domain areas.
Application Process
Interested eligible candidates should submit the following by the closing date of 15 August 2024:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Cover letter indicating research interests
- Prospective supervisors at the university must provide a letter of support indicating their willingness to supervise your research.
- Develop a research proposal in consultation with prospective supervisors. The proposal should include the research topic, key research questions, and the problems to be addressed.
- Contact details of two academic referees.
- Certified academic certificates and transcripts.
- Any documents demonstrating relevant work experience, training, publications, etc
For inquiries and application submissions, please contact:
BIUST Postgraduate School:
- Email: pg_records@biust.ac.bw;
- Tel. +267 4931761, +267 4931762
UB School of Graduate Studies:
- Email: sogras@ub.ac.bw;
- Tel. +267 3552960/2861/4712/4690/2862;
- ORI: +267 6817213
BUAN Faculty of Research & Graduate Studies:
- Email: sngwako@buan.ac.bw;
- Tel. +267 3650117; +267 3650100
The closing date for Applications is 15 August 2024.
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