Botswana has the third highest GDP per capita in southern Africa. In addition to economic stability, the country also pays special attention to the development of higher education and healthcare. The memorandum of cooperation was signed by President Duma Gideon Boko on behalf of the Republic of Botswana and Rector Dr. Béla Merkely on behalf of Semmelweis University. The purpose of the document is to promote long-term scientific and educational cooperation between the two parties based on mutual benefits.
The agreement covers the launch of exchange programs for faculty, researchers, and students with the aim of implementing joint research and training projects. It also allows PhD students to participate in joint scientific research and in training to support the preparation of their dissertations. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of sharing educational and scientific materials and information related to research work. The agreement creates a framework for organizing seminars, conferences, symposia, courses, and summer schools. In addition, the parties aim to produce joint scientific publications and create favorable conditions for research and training activities for participating faculty and students in both countries.
The memorandum of cooperation will remain in effect for five years and may be extended for a further five years. The memorandum marks another milestone in Semmelweis University’s international relations. More than a third of its 16,000 students are enrolled in the English and German-language programs, with international students coming from 129 countries across five continents.
Dr. Balázs Csizmadia
Image credit: Protocol Office of the President, Republic of Botswana
