July 4, 2025, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) marked a commemorative milestone with the official commissioning of its state-of-the-art Faculty of Computing & Informatics (FCI) building. The vibrant event brought together government dignitaries, university leadership, esteemed faculty, dedicated staff, enthusiastic students, and key stakeholders, symbolizing a leap forward in ICT education and innovation for the region.
The day’s events began with a captivating exhibition showcasing groundbreaking innovations from PHARMBIOTRAC, MUST’s Incubation Center, Epicentre, UCoBs, SIBO, and Evently, among others. These innovations were mainly aligned with ICT and healthcare. Among the showcased products were HealCof DS Syrup for flu and cough, Spark Herbal Toothpaste for gum health and fresh breath, Dermarlic Tincture for antifungal and bacterial eczema, and Antidiabetic Natural Capsules for the prevention and treatment of Type 2 diabetes.
Grand Opening Ceremony and Guided Tour
The commissioning ceremony for the new FCI building commenced with a special prayer led by Rev. Fr. Dido Nshekanimanya, a MUST Alumnus representing the Archbishop of Mbarara Diocese, alongside Dr. Rev. Fr. Deus Karemire, Vice Chancellor of the University of Saint Joseph’s Mbarara.
Following the prayer, the Chief Guest, Hon. Molly Asimwe, Head of the Education Committee of Parliament and Woman MP for Rwampara District, representing the Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Speaker of Parliament, proudly unveiled the plaque on the new facility. She was joined by Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, the Vice Chancellor of MUST, Dr. Evarist Nabaasa (Dean, FCI), University Council members, top management, faculty, staff, students, and other distinguished guests.
Immediately after the unveiling, Dr. Evarist Nabaasa, Dean of FCI, alongside University Engineer Eng. Achilles Byabasheija, and Eng. Brian Buhanda, the lead engineer of NEC, led a comprehensive tour of the new building. Guests explored its modern lecture rooms, advanced laboratories, and well-equipped offices, gaining firsthand insight into the cutting-edge environment poised to foster ICT education and research.
Voices of Vision and Gratitude
The ceremony featured insightful remarks from various key figures, reflecting on the faculty’s journey, achievements, and future aspirations:
Eng. Achilles Byabasheija, the University Engineer, shared insights into the construction journey of the new Faculty of Computing & Informatics building. He expressed appreciation for everyone who contributed to its development and commissioning, extending congratulations to both the contractors and consultants. Eng. Byabasheija also commended the university leadership for their unwavering support throughout the project.
In commemoration of the day, various stakeholders participated in tree planting, emphasizing MUST’s dedication to environmental protection. The Chief Guest, Vice Chancellor, Dean FCI, and the Bishop participated, highlighting that the event was not just about the new structure, but also about MUST’s passion for a sustainable future. This act underscores the university’s belief that progress and environmental responsibility go hand-in-hand.
A New Era for ICT at MUST
The successful commissioning of the Faculty of Computing & Informatics building truly underscored MUST’s unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and its pivotal role in Uganda’s digital transformation. The event celebrated significant collaborations among government, academia, and industry, setting a vibrant path forward for education, research, and community impact for years to come.
