Researchers Challenged To Develop Practical Solutions To Uganda’s Economic Challenges

What the report says

Researchers and academics at Uganda Christian University have been urged to focus on practical, community-centered work that can help address Uganda’s economic challenges. The appeal was made during a three-day Research, Innovation, Engagement and Pedagogy Symposium held at the university in Mukono, according to Nile Post.

Busoga Diocese bishop Prof. Grace Lubaale encouraged researchers to concentrate on agricultural studies that can help farmers earn more through crop diversification and value addition. He also called on universities to go beyond publishing academic papers and produce findings that can improve household incomes, strengthen communities and support national development. Lubaale said such work should connect more closely with Uganda Vision 2040, development priorities and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

UCU Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Finance and Administration Prof. David Mugawe said the university has invested more than Shs1 billion in research and innovation. He said this has supported practical projects and helped the university register 15 intellectual property assets. One example highlighted at the symposium was the Olutindo initiative, which uses a film and card game to improve communication between parents and adolescents, including on issues such as teenage pregnancy.

The symposium also included wider discussion of Uganda’s economy, with Bank of Uganda Deputy Governor Augustus Nuwagaba speaking about pressures on the shilling. The event brought together academics, researchers and other stakeholders to explore ways of turning university research into usable solutions for communities and the economy.