The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja President, Professor Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, FAS, has applauded the numerous achievements of the Botswana as the country marked its 60th independence anniversary in Abuja.

Prof. Onwualu made this remark at the reception and dinner party marking the 60th Independence anniversary of the Republic of Botswana, held on 30 September 2026 at the Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja.

The AUST President who was accompanied to the event by his wife, Mrs. Blessing Nwamaka Onwualu,Ms. Lizzy Asomugha expressed his delight on the rapid development the country has recorded in just 60 years of its existence as a sovereign nation.

In his speech, the foremost President of AUST and former President of the Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), Prof. Hilary Inyang reflected on his tenure as an early Vice-Chancellor of the Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) and his longstanding relationship with Botswana and its leadership.

He commended Botswana’s resilience and highlighted the importance of knowledge creation, science and technology, entrepreneurship, good governance and adaptation in strengthening the country’s socio-economic development, particularly amid changes in the global diamond market.

Prof. Inyang also marked the occasion through three original poems celebrating Botswana’s 60 years of independence: Botswana: The Pearl in the Desert, Seasons Never Last Forever and Adaptation is the Key.

The celebration provided an opportunity to strengthen the longstanding academic and institutional links between Botswana and AUST, while recognising the role of science, education and innovation in advancing sustainable development across Africa.

Prof. Inyang is currently the Founding Chair of the Global Institute for Sustainable Development, Advanced Analyses and Design (GISDAAD) and a former President and Vice-Chancellor of AUST.