Our First Few Months as Botswana Flying Labs: Making an Impact in the Lives of Batswana

By Botswana Flying Labs

Over the past few months, Botswana Flying Labs has embarked on an exciting journey to bring innovation and technological advancements to remote communities in Botswana. 

As an organization driven by innovation and technological advancements, one of our core objectives has been to inspire and educate the next generation through our STEAM program. We firmly believe in empowering young minds with hands-on learning experiences that stimulate their interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. 

First, a Big Thanks to Our Partners 

Our collaboration with local schools and our partnerships with SAM Labs, Aerobotix, and Ubuntu promote a holistic learning experience and strengthen our commitment to preparing students for the future workforce, to which technological literacy is increasingly essential. SAM Labs provides the backbone for our STEAM programs, a foundation from which we continue to build our programs. On a grander scale and as part of our long-term plans, this partnership will enable us to realize our goal of providing our programs in Setswana to the entire country. Aerobotix Solutions and Ubuntu Connect serve to strengthen our visibility and capacity building.

Introducing our STEAM program allowed students to explore drone technology and coding through engaging weekend activities and interactive sessions. We aim to nurture a passion for STEAM fields, especially for the girl child. Our participation in the Women and Drones Africa Fireside Chat was also an opportunity to raise awareness about the significance of encouraging girls to pursue and navigate STEAM careers.

The Value of Community Engagement

In our commitment to giving back to the community, we organized a charity event for the community in Mahotshwane village, where we rolled out our STEAM in Setswana program. Recognizing their unique needs, we collaborated with various organizations and NGOs and were able to provide clothing and food to enhance the community's quality of life. This event strengthened our bond with the community and generated awareness as we were featured in the Daily News newspaper.

Designing Educational Programs and Resources: A Major Win!

To harness the full potential of drone technology, we have conducted comprehensive training programs for our staff members and the wider community. By imparting technical skills and knowledge, we aim to foster a sense of autonomy and self-sufficiency in utilizing drones for various purposes. Training sessions covered topics such as drone operation, safety protocols, data collection, and analysis. Equipped with this expertise, our staff, and community can now leverage drones effectively in agriculture and environmental monitoring.

As part of our commitment to remaining proactive in Botswana's budding drone industry, we have prepared and completed our full drone training syllabus and manual. The syllabus is meticulously designed to take our students from zero experience and awareness to complete comprehension of the fundamentals of drone operations and an appreciation for their use. We are working with a similar model as we design our STEAM programs, and we expect both the Drone Training Syllabus and Manual and the STEAM Training Syllabus and Manual to be accredited by the Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA) in 2024.

We have actively engaged the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana to work together to create a conducive training environment for drone pilots. Our full Training Manual has been submitted for their approval, and once the country's drone regulations are published, our manual will be primely placed for consideration.

Up Next: Drones in Wildlife Conservation

Collaborating with Skydio, the Flying Labs Network allowed us to apply for a STEM Tech Microgrant. The focus of our proposal was environmental conservation education with the use of drones in collaboration with the Gaborone Game Reserve. Although we were not awarded the microgrant, the work towards building the proposal allowed us to engage with the Department of Wildlife and National Parks staff, who provided insight into the existing need for our proposed project – especially the All-Girls program. For this program, we will invite students from different schools around Gaborone to dive into drone technology and teach them how drones can benefit wildlife conservation. It will take place during the school holidays at the Gaborone Game Reserve Environmental Education Center (EEC) and encompass workshops, drone flight demonstrations, and other enlightening outdoor activities.

As part of our goals for 2024, we will pursue introducing these conservation workshops. We have identified suitable partners whose socio-economic responsibilities align with this project. Conversations are at an advanced stage, and we hope to announce the project launch in early 2024.

Laying a Solid Foundation

The past few months have been a testament to the dedication and impact of Botswana Flying Labs. From implementing our STEAM program in schools and organizing a charity event for Mahotshwane village to providing drone training for our staff and community members and partnering with organizations like SAM Labs, we have consistently strived to make a difference in remote communities. We are laying the foundation for a brighter future through innovation, education, and meaningful partnerships. Our commitment to improving lives through technology remains unwavering as we move forward.

The first half of our Flying Labs journey served to lay the foundation for our ambitious projects. During the second half, we will bring all our ideas to life. Thanks to our dedicated team, the support of the Flying Labs Network and WeRobotics, and our welcoming community, we are well on our way towards making a lasting impact on the lives of Batswana through education, innovation, and exposure to technology.

What a journey it's been so far!