Busitema University, Uganda, Prof. Okwakol, Vice-Chancellor
The Vice-Chancellor of Busitema University in Uganda said that the University comprise of six campuses specializing in different areas which include engineering, agriculture, management sciences, environment, education. Although the focus is on Science, Technology and Innovation, the University’s flagship programmes are aligned to government agenda as well as Sustainable Development Goals and African Union Vision 2063. These programmes are relevant to Uganda and the continent.
Busitema University, Uganda, Prof. Okwakol, Vice-Chancellor
The University focuses on top imports e.g. automobile, pharmaceuticals, textiles, mobile phones, computers. This is because Africa exports raw materials like petroleum, while the United States and China export finished products. This has resulted in trade imbalance. The research, development and innovation are the solution to this situation. The Vice-Chancellor acknowledged that global research output is still the lowest although South Africa leads in Africa. The production of PhD graduates is very low in Africa. Africa produces less than 1% of global patents, which are a necessity for development. Africa should therefore focus on relevant doctoral programmes for Sustainable Development Goals. The importance of creation of joint programmes, synergies in Research and Development, and increased funding by the government as well as improved infrastructure and staff working conditions was reiterated.
