International students on an exchange program from KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden and Baden-Wuerttemberg Cooperative State University (DHBW), Germany, were hosted in an intimate orientation ceremony by the Student and Alumni Affairs department (SAAD) on the 2nd February 2022. The event was graced by the Swedish Consulate dignitary, Mr Kent Wilson, stakeholders and critical faculty representatives.
For the welcoming remarks, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Finance and Employability, Dr Priya Iyer, noted that BU was finally excited to see the International Exchange Programme take shape after the start was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr Iyer indicated the students should maximise the opportunity, mingle with people and learn the Setswana culture. She further emphasised that the exchange programme was great for enhancing student employability and learning how to work with diverse people worldwide.
From the Swedish Consulate, Mr Kent Wilson said he was happy that they have finally started welcoming people to Botswana and appreciated BU’s management for the exciting exchange programme for a change since the pandemic. He shared his delightful journey in Botswana that spans over 30 years and is proud to have witnessed positive developments. Mr Wilson highlighted the importance of exchange programmes to the students to learn how to do things differently and make interactions with diverse people.
All the exchange students shared their excitement on their journey and the warm hospitality of BU and Batswana in general. The students said they were looking forward to the next five months of incredible academic and cultural experiences.
