Alupo Calls for Universities to Champion Science and Innovation

Emphasizing Science and Innovation for Uganda's Future

Uganda's Vice President, Jessica Alupo, has emphasized the critical role of science, research, and innovation in driving the country’s socio-economic transformation. Her message was delivered during the 21st graduation ceremony of Kyambogo University in Kampala, where she urged universities to lead the nation towards a knowledge-based economy.

"Science, research, and innovation should be the cornerstone of our development and survival as a nation," Alupo stated. She encouraged graduates and university stakeholders to continue their work in research and innovation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, as well as international partners. This call to action aligns with President Museveni's vision for Uganda's future.

The government remains committed to expanding investments in higher education, recognizing that it is essential for producing the human resources needed to drive national development. "We shall continue supporting research and innovations and building appropriate physical and ICT infrastructure to enable our young people remain interconnected and create jobs for themselves," Alupo said.

Strategic Focus on Key Sectors

Alupo highlighted the National Resistance Movement's (NRM) strategy for creating wealth and jobs through four key sub-sectors: commercial agriculture, industrialization, services, and information and communication technology (ICT). She urged young people to fully utilize government programs within these sectors, emphasizing that Uganda's greatest asset is its people, supported by a strong education system.

"The institutions of higher learning are at the helm of the education system which generates the requisite knowledge necessary for steering the country's development," she said. Kyambogo University, in particular, was commended for its strong programs in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Education, including special needs and inclusive education, which align with the national goal of producing relevant human capital.

Commitment to Teacher Training and Education

The Vice President praised Kyambogo University for its continued responsibility over teacher training for pre-primary, primary, secondary, and technical education. She noted that more than 45,000 students in affiliated colleges are currently enrolled. "I thank Kyambogo University for providing an environment that accommodates this large number of students and the Ministry of Education and Sports for continuously guiding the administration on effective and efficient delivery of our mandate," Alupo said.

She also assured Kyambogo University that it will play a central role in mentoring and nurturing staff of the newly established Uganda National Institute for Teacher Education (UNITE), ensuring efficient service delivery. Alupo urged university staff to remain committed to their duties and align their work with the country's needs.

"There must be dedicated and qualified staff with adequate physical, academic, and research or innovation facilities," she said. The Government of Uganda, with support from the African Development Bank under the Higher Education, Science and Technology Project, has equipped Kyambogo University with modern science laboratories and infrastructure to advance research and industrial innovation.

"These facilities should be utilized to enhance the national capacity for scientific research, innovation, value addition, and manufacturing," she added.

Advancing Sports and Health

Alupo applauded Kyambogo University for developing a state-of-the-art football facility in collaboration with the National Council of Sports, which will support Uganda's preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), to be co-hosted with Kenya and Tanzania. She encouraged staff and students to use the facility to improve their physical and mental wellbeing and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Encouraging Graduates to Contribute

Congratulating the graduands, Alupo urged them to apply their skills in the labor market and contribute to their communities. "This is just the beginning of your career. You should step out, utilize the acquired knowledge and skills to reinvent yourselves," she said. She encouraged them to be innovative, create employment, and maintain discipline. "Avoid the temptation of getting rich quickly through corrupt means," she added.

She thanked parents and guardians for supporting their children through university. "University education is costly but you endeavored to pay all dues. Kyambogo University has given them knowledge and hands-on skills that make them employable and also creators of their own jobs," she said.

Leadership and Vision for the Future

Chancellor Prof John Yakobo Okedi appreciated the commitment of the university council, management, and staff, saying it has created a conducive learning environment free of strikes. "You should maintain the spirit of teamwork to grow in strength," he said.

Vice Chancellor Prof Eli Katunguka-Rwakishaya congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to pursue lifelong learning. "Today's achievement is the beginning of your education journey," he said, noting that government support has helped the university strengthen staffing and infrastructure.