Kyambogo University is set to host the 4th Edition of the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) Festival from April 10th to 11th, 2025. The festival will feature the STEAM Conference with the theme, “Advancing Research and Innovation for Impact.” This year’s festival theme, “Demystifying Science, Technology, and Innovation for Community Development,” emphasizes the critical role research and innovation play in addressing community needs and driving socio-economic progress.

Prof. Eli Katunguka Rwakishaya (PhD), Vice Chancellor of Kyambogo University, highlighted the festival’s mission to translate research outputs into tools for social betterment. He shared that this year’s discussions will center around three pivotal areas:

  1. Transforming Education into a Catalyst for Deep Tech Innovations
  2. Driving Green Mobility in Uganda through Public-Private Collaboration
  3. Enhancing Quality and Innovation for Globally Competitive Agro-Products

Prof. Katunguka encouraged all stakeholders to engage actively in the festival activities. He underscored the significance of showcasing research that addresses real-world challenges and improves community livelihoods.

Associate Professor Ediriisa Mugampoza (PhD), Dean of the Faculty of Science, expressed excitement for the combined festival and conference. He noted that the events offer an invaluable platform for promoting a culture of inquiry and innovation across various disciplines. Prof. Mugampoza pointed out that the festival facilitates dialogue among students, researchers, industry professionals, and government representatives, fostering collaborative efforts aimed at societal development.

The festival promises interactive exhibitions, engaging presentations, and thought-provoking discussions designed to inspire curiosity and critical thinking. Prof. Mugampoza also expressed gratitude to sponsors and partners whose support is instrumental in bringing these events to life.

The STEAM Conference: Objectives and Activities

The STEAM Conference aims to consolidate insights from the festival and evaluate advancements in research. It is aligned with the following objectives:

  1. Enhancing Research Commercialization: Identifying strategies for bringing research to market and supporting economic growth through innovation.
  2. Building Capacity in Science Communication and Policy Formulation: Equipping participants with the necessary skills to effectively communicate research findings and influence policy decisions.
  3. Promoting Collaborative Research and Innovation Development: Encouraging partnerships across academia, industry, and government to drive innovation.
  4. Tracking the Impact of STEAM Innovations in Society: Assessing how research outcomes contribute to community development.

Key activities in the STEAM Conference include:

  • Oral and Poster Presentations: Selected researchers will present their findings, showcasing innovative solutions supported by Competitive Research Grants.
  • Policy Roundtable Discussions: Engaging government agencies to align research findings with national development strategies.
  • Workshops: Expert-led discussions will focus on themes such as deep tech, green mobility, and agro-innovation, aimed at building knowledge and capacity.

Conclusion

Both the STEAM Festival and the STEAM Conference represent significant opportunities for learning, collaboration, and innovation. They will bring together students, educators, industry professionals, and policymakers to foster dialogue and demonstrate how science and technology can shape a better future. With vibrant discussions and exhibitions planned, participants are encouraged to engage, share insights, and explore new ideas that have the potential to transform communities.

Kyambogo University invites everyone to join in this celebration of knowledge, creativity, and innovation. Don’t miss the chance to be part of an experience that promises to inspire and ignite a passion for scientific exploration among the next generation of innovators.

For further details, please visit the official STEAM Festival Program book (download here)

 

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