The future of Ugandan innovation took center stage today as Kyambogo University officially opened the Competitive Research Grants Dissemination Conference and 5th Edition of the STEAM Festival. Running from April 21st to 23rd, 2026, this year’s festival marks a transformative shift in the university’s mandate. Under the theme “Demystifying Science, Technology, and Innovation for Community Development,” the event has evolved from a traditional STEM showcase into a multidisciplinary powerhouse, integrating the Arts, Humanities, and Special Needs Education.
With a strategic focus on the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Competency-Based Education, the festival brings together researchers, policymakers from institutions like the NCDC and UCC, and industry leaders to explore ethical AI governance and graduate employability. Through over 60 presentations, innovation exhibitions, and policy roundtables, the event aims to translate academic research into practical, socio-economic solutions while cementing Kyambogo University’s role as a leader in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration for Uganda’s future.
The festival’s Day one keynote address, delivered by Dr. Cosmas Mwikirize (STI Secretariat, Office of the President), challenged the academic community to move beyond “archived journals” and embrace a “product-centric” mindset. “For Uganda to achieve its ambitious growth targets, the academic community must shift focus from theoretical research to the practical development of industrial value chains,” Dr. Mwikirize stated.
He emphasized a “Triple-Helix” approach, a seamless collaboration between government, industry, and academia to ensure homegrown solutions like AI and pathogenic research actually reach the market and boost the national GDP.
Durin the opening ceremony, Prof. Eli Katunguka-Rwakishaya, Vice Chancellor, highlighted the university’s growing global footprint and the success of the Competitive Research Scheme, which has supported 175 staff members. He thanked the government for UGX 4 billion allocation toward research impact at the University.
Assoc. Prof. Ediriisa Mugampoza, the Organizing Chairperson, issued a dual call for integrity in evaluation and the proper use of Artificial Intelligence, urging researchers to maintain ethical standards while solving real-world challenges.
Assoc. Prof. Khadijah Nakyinsige: Welcomed the “future innovators” from participating secondary schools, emphasizing that national progress depends on nurturing the next generation of creative thinkers.
The Chief Guest, Mr. Timothy Ssejoba, Commissioner of University Education and Training from the Ministry of Education and Sports who was the Chief Guest, formally declared the festival open with a challenge to the student body, to embrace innovation or get left behind. He specifically noted that Kyambogo must lead in developing AI solutions tailored to local problems rather than importing foreign frameworks.
Assoc. Prof. Fred Wabwire-Mangen, Chairperson of the University Council, noted that the council remains committed to ensuring Kyambogo graduates are “problem-solvers, not just job seekers.”
