The report suggests that a lack of focus in funding, and problems recruiting and retaining skilled workers are to blame.

Another significant factor is the HIV/AIDS epidemic, which has depleted Botswana's human resources and drained financial resources from development.

The report recommends developing a core of expertise in health research and development in order to face future epidemics, and creating a 'centre of excellence' in HIV/AIDS research.

Increased funding is necessary to build research capacity at universities, it adds.

Another recommendation is that Botswana's institutions introduce postgraduate training programmes — initially in collaboration with foreign partners — rather than send postgraduate students abroad as currently happens.

According to the government-owned Botswana Press Agency, the country's science minister Pelonomi Venson said Botswana is committed to developing national science and technology capacity and policies.