The Chairperson of the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE), Prof. Joy Constance Kwesiga, has called for Uganda’s higher education sector to move beyond theory and become a catalyst for economic transformation through research, innovation, and technology transfer.
Speaking on Monday at the 7th Annual Higher Education Conference in Gulu, themed “Harnessing Innovations in Higher Education for Accelerated Economic Transformation,” Prof. Kwesiga emphasized the importance of STEM education, digital learning, and strong partnerships between universities, industry, and government to ensure graduates are job-ready and innovations reach the market.
She noted that funding remains a major challenge, urging increased investment in high-level laboratories, incubation centers, and the commercialization of student and staff innovations.
“With deliberate support, higher education can drive productivity, create wealth, and position Uganda as a knowledge-based economy,” she said.
In her remarks, Prof. Mary J.N. Okwakol, Executive Director of NCHE, highlighted the role of innovation, research, and digital learning in advancing Uganda’s socio-economic development.
She noted ongoing efforts to strengthen quality assurance, promote industry partnerships, and align academic programs with market needs through competence-based education.
The conference brings together policymakers, academia, industry leaders, and development partners to foster collaboration and position higher education as a key driver of national and regional growth.
