Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) recently concluded its 19th Annual Research Dissemination Conference at the prestigious Las Vegas Garden Hotel. 
The event, themed “Embracing Translational Research for Sustainable and Transformational Development,” brought together brilliant minds from diverse fields to explore cutting-edge research and its practical applications.
The conference kicked off with insightful opening remarks by Prof. Vincent Batwala, Director of the Graduate School. The keynote address, delivered by the Holicare Consortium, led by Prof. Aman Russom, highlighted the potential of microfluidics-based point-of-care diagnostics, particularly in resource-limited settings.
Dr. Cosmas Mwikirize, Superintendent of Industrial Value Chains Development, shed light on the crucial role of research in driving economic growth and national development. He emphasized the need to bridge the gap between research and real-world applications.
Prof. Jessica Haberer, a renowned expert in global health and a Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, as well as the Director of Global Innovation and Research Leadership at Massachusetts General Hospital, was the second keynote speaker. She presented a compelling talk titled “Translational Data Science in Global Health Research.” Her presentation focused on leveraging data science to advance global health research and improve healthcare outcomes worldwide.
Recognizing Excellence and Inspiring the Future
During the 19th Annual Research Dissemination Conference, Vice Chancellor Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika commended researchers for their exceptional work. She appealed to the Chief Guest for increased funding to support researchers and upgrade ITFC facilities, a request that aligns well with his area of expertise. This investment would drive innovation and excellence. She remarked, “During my familiarization tour of the university facilities, I visited ITFC and saw that we have great potential to conduct research and promote tourism in Uganda.” Prof. Byakika also acknowledged the support from various partners and stakeholders at the conference and urged them to continue the support especially with capacity building of MUST faculty, exchange programmes and join research so as to learn and teach each other.
The Vice Chancellor emphasized the need to publish the presented papers and to invite industry and the community to provide feedback to researchers. She stated, “It feels like we are presenting to ourselves. The people impacted by your findings are not here to listen to the great work you have done. Let us extend our invitations and ensure a diverse audience.”
Dr. James Musinguzi, a distinguished MUST alumnus and Director of Community Conservation and Ex-Situ Wildlife Services at Uganda Wildlife Authority, expressed gratitude to the university for nurturing his career. As the day’s chief guest, he pledged continued support to foster research and development at MUST. He empathized the need to translate research aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice by applying groundbreaking discoveries to real-world problems. He said that the best way to achieve this, a research climate that prioritizes collaboration, realism, and practical understanding is crucial. By embracing interdisciplinary collaboration, we can make informed decisions that drive sustainable development.
He also pointed out the AI aspect “AI and technological advancements are revolutionizing research. AI’s data processing capabilities accelerate research, while new technological tools enhance AI’s sophistication, leading to deeper insights and transformative solutions” .
A Showcase of Diverse Research
The conference featured a wide range of research presentations, categorized into several sub-themes:
- Design and validation of software technologies
- Population and Public Health Research
- Responsive Health Systems
- Policy, Governance, Social Development and Gender
- Agricultural Production Enhancement for Sustainable Resilient Livelihoods
- Environment and Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
- Natural Resources Management and Biodiversity Conservation
- Entrepreneurship, Business Accounting and Economic Advancement
- Industry, Energy and Emerging Technologies
- Food Safety, Security and Innovation (value chains addition)
- One Health
- Inclusive Education and Educational Reforms
- Natural Products Validation and Development
- Earth Sciences, Scientific Insight and Engineering
The 19th Annual Research Dissemination Conference (ARDC) featured presentations on various research topics. These included agriculture, health, education, environment, and social sciences. The presentations were visually engaging and effectively communicated key research findings through data and evidence. Overall, the conference provided valuable insights into the latest research trends and advancements, fostering discussion and collaboration among researchers.
Awards and Honors
The conference also recognized outstanding contributions to research and innovation. Several awards were presented to researchers and students, including:
The chief organizing committee acknowledged MUST’s major partners and sponsors with souvenirs. Among the recognitions was a notable award given to Prof. F.I.B Kayanja for his significant contributions to the university and the ARDC. This award was received by his son, Dr. Adrian Kayanja.
Prof. Jessica Haberer was also recognized for her outstanding contributions to Mbarara University of Science and Technology over the past 15 years. Her dedication to research and education has had a significant impact on the university.
- MGH Publication Awards 2024: Dr. Amir Abdallah Mbonde, Dr. Migisha Richard, and Dr. Julian Adong these were presented by Prof. Prof. Jessica Haberer
Dr. Julian Adong
Dr. Richard Migisha- Presented by Dr. Juliet Mwanga, Outstanding Junior Researcher were Awarded as below
- and Dr. Julian Adong Faculty of Medicine
Albert Agaba, Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies
Ketty Namajja, Faculty of Medicine
Dr. Julian Adong Faculty of Medicine
Vincent Rutagangibwa, Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology
Michael Byamukama, Faculty of Science
Dr. Sadrack Omara, Faculty of Medicine
A Call to Action
As the conference concluded, Dr. Juliet Mwanga-Amumpaire, Director of Epicentre, urged attendees to continue pushing the boundaries of research and to translate their findings into practical solutions.
The success of the 19th Annual Research Dissemination Conference underscores MUST’s commitment to academic excellence and its role as a catalyst for sustainable development.
Acknowledgment
Special thanks to the Editorial and Organizing Team, headed by Assoc. Prof. Joel Bazira, who also chairs the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT) board. We express our gratitude to the Director of DRGT, Assoc. Prof. Vincent Batwala, and the staff for establishing a strong secretariat that has supported the organizing committee throughout this conference.
We acknowledge Our gratitude goes to the University’s leadership and management for their ongoing financial support of this critical academic event at MUST. We also extend a sincere thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of this conference, the Mentorship/Supervisors’ Workshop, and the PhD Symposium.
Special thanks go to Dr. Richard Kimera for his effective leadership as Chair of the Scientific Committee, along with his team of distinguished scholars: Prof. Jerome Kabachenga, Dr. John Emenyu, Dr. Prudence Kemigisha, Dr. John Kule, Dr. Jennifer Atwebembeire, Dr. Esther Atukunda, and Dr. Wilfred Arubaku. Your efforts in reviewing abstracts, assessing posters, and establishing criteria for selecting top junior researchers have been invaluable.
The communication crew, led by Ms. Angella Nakato Muyingo, the Communications Officer (PR), publicized the event through all communication channels, handled live updates, printed all conference IECs, and published the event. Additionally, the printing of conference booklets, coordination of international guests, and printing of awards were handled by the Communications Officer (IR), Sheila Niinye Olivia Twinamasiko.
Special appreciation is also extended to the IT team, led by Mr. Owen Muhangi, for expertly managing and overseeing the technical aspects of abstract submissions and associated processes.
We are especially thankful to our partners and sponsors for their invaluable support in making this event possible.
Finally, we extend our deep gratitude to all our development partners for their continued generosity, and to the entire MUST community and our service providers for their support.
Succeed we Must
