Uganda University in partnership with Uganda Space Management Office

The National Space Programme Management Office (GGPEN) and the University of Botswana (UB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening space development and bringing social and economic benefits to citizens. The MoU was signed by Dr. Zolana João, Director General of GGPEN, and Professor David Norris, Vice-Chancellor of UB, during the recent Angolan Information and Communication Technologies and Space Conference (ANGOTIC) held in Luanda, Angola. The National Space Programme Management Office (GGPEN) is an agency of the Angolan Government responsible for promoting the peaceful uses of space and conducting technical space research.

Memorandum of Understanding Details

The agreement outlines several key areas of collaboration between the two institutions:

Joint Training and Capacity Building: The two sides will collaborate on training programs and initiatives to build capabilities in key areas. This will include IT, academic, scientific, and commercial fields, with an emphasis on space.

Space Infrastructure Projects: They will collaborate to develop and implement space infrastructure.

Exchange of information and experience: Information and technological options will be exchanged regularly, particularly on space applications and satellites.

Satellite Services: GGPEN will provide satellite services to Botswana and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region using ANGOSAT-2. Human Skills and Institutional Capacity Development: Efforts will be made to develop technical and institutional capabilities in the space sector through various training programs. Student Exchange Program: The agreement includes the development and implementation of exchange programs for students from Botswana and Angola. In addition, these programs are intended to strengthen space development in both countries by promoting cooperation, sharing knowledge and building skills. This will boost the development of their respective space sectors.

Multilateral Strategic Consultations: The two sides will hold regular consultations on multilateral strategies, including areas covered by the Memorandum of Understanding and other areas of common interest.

Working Committees: Working Committees will be established to define the specific parameters of academic, technical and commercial collaboration. In addition, the signatories will identify and appoint the private entity responsible for the commercial aspects of their collaboration.