Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) has unveiled an ambitious proposal to establish a Policy and Economic Data Center (MUST-PEDC), aimed at addressing critical gaps in data accessibility and quality in Uganda. The initiative, presented by Dr. Benjamin Musiita, seeks to create a synchronized national data bank to enhance economic research, evidence-based policymaking, and socio-economic development.
The proposal was presented on Monday, December 16, 2024, during a stakeholder engagement session attended by key university leaders and faculty members, including Dr. Peace Mbabazi, Administrator of the Faculty of Business and Informatics; Ms. Robinah Nakaketo, the University Planner; Mr. Prinari Behangana, Director of Human Resources at MUST; Deans of Faculties; and members of the wider faculty. Their participation underscored the importance of this initiative and the collective commitment to its success.
The center aims to centralize and integrate economic data, offering quick snapshots of socio-economic challenges while improving decision-making processes at the national level. Dr. Musiita justified the need for such an initiative: “Synchronizing data across sectors will not only enhance planning but also position Uganda to address developmental challenges with precision.”
MUST-PEDC envisions becoming a leading center of excellence in economic research, policy innovation, and data-driven solutions, leveraging advanced technology to address pressing challenges. Its mission includes conducting high-quality economic research, building a comprehensive data bank, and fostering partnerships with national and international institutions to amplify its impact.
The establishment of MUST-PEDC is expected to benefit the university and the country through:
- Enhancing research excellence through access to reliable, real-time data.
- Attracting grants and partnerships through evidence-based outputs.
- Supporting community engagement with actionable policy recommendations.
- Strengthening the university’s reputation as a hub for economic research and policy development.
- Driving sustainable development through innovative solutions.
According to Dr. Musiita, MUST-PEDC will operate under the university’s Institute of Research and Development (IRD) oversight. “A Deputy Chief Research Officer will lead the center, managing strategic planning, partnerships, and capacity-building activities. Recruitment, procurement, and auditing processes will follow the university’s established administrative structures, ensuring accountability and transparency,” he presented.
Key outputs from MUST-PEDC include a comprehensive data repository, evidence-based policy recommendations, increased research quality, strengthened collaborations, and capacity-building initiatives to train future policymakers.
During the presentation, Dr. Musiita called upon stakeholders to provide insights to refine the framework and ensure the center’s inclusivity across disciplines. He emphasized that collaboration from stakeholders would be crucial to aligning the initiative with national development goals and achieving its mission of sustainable development.
