Summary:
- Despite the government providing seed grants to public universities to support researchers in developing innovations for the market, Assoc. Prof. Mukunya noted that more attention is needed.
KABALE: Research experts in Uganda have urged the government to invest in research, innovation, and the knowledge economy as a means of boosting the country’s economic growth.
Speaking as the keynote speaker at the Multidisciplinary Research Dissemination workshop organized by Kabale University in southwestern Uganda, Kabale District, Dr. David Mukunya, Associate Professor of Maternal and Child Health Epidemiology at Busitema University, emphasized the need for government investment in research on par with sectors like tourism and minerals. The workshop was held under the theme “Enhancing Utilization through Multidisciplinary Research Dissemination.”
Assoc. Prof. Mukunya, echoing Secretary to the Treasury Ramathan Ggoobi, highlighted that the knowledge economy is one of the five key growth areas expected to elevate Uganda’s economy from 49 billion to 500 billion shillings. He asserted that research and knowledge are now equivalent to money and should not be underestimated. He further stated that if research is crucial to the country’s economic strategy, the government must prioritize it.
Despite the government providing seed grants to public universities to support researchers in developing innovations for the market, Assoc. Prof. Mukunya noted that more attention is needed. He encouraged researchers, both within and outside academia, to utilize local university grants to grow innovations and export them to the market.
CUE IN ASSOC. PROF MUKUNYA…..ON RESEARCH……ENG//
Dr. Julius Alexander Arinaitwe, Director of the Directorate of Research and Grants at Kabale University, stated that the primary goal of the Multidisciplinary Research Dissemination workshop was to enhance the utilization of research at the university. He revealed that the directorate currently oversees 22 ongoing research projects, 9 newly approved projects, and two innovation projects that have advanced past the ideation stage and are now developing prototypes.
CUE IN ARINAITWE….ON RESEARCH…..RR/ENG//
Professor Eddy Walakira of Social Work with Children and Youth at Makerere University, speaking as the chief guest, praised Kabale University for its dedication to fostering multidisciplinary dialogue. Prof. Walakira highlighted the university’s role in creating a vibrant platform for scholars, researchers, and practitioners to share insights, collaborate on innovative solutions, and drive impactful societal change.
Kabale University Vice Chancellor, Professor Joy Constance Kwesiga, in her opening remarks, urged workshop participants to fully engage with the workshop. She emphasized the importance of networking, collaboration, and the exploration of new ideas, encouraging everyone to make the most of the diverse perspectives and expertise present.
