On January 20, 2025 Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) held a breakfast meeting for the MUST-IUC Partnership, a collaborative initiative aimed at addressing critical societal challenges through research, innovation, and community engagement.
The 10 year project has is between MUST,Vrije Universteit Brussel (VUB) the Flemish University,Universities in Flanders, KU Leuven, University of Ghent, HOWEST and University of Antwerp. These have project leaders and the one for Mbarara University is Associate Professor Charles Tushabomwe-Kazooba, who is the Partner Coordinator Appointed by VLIR-UOS.
The project aims at Strengthen MUST as a digital-based and equitable centre of excellence in community education, research, innovation and service that offers solutions to demographic challenges and influence national policy thus facilitating community-based sustainable household livelihoods of the Most at Risk Populations (MARPs) in South Western Uganda
The meeting began with an overview of the UCOBS project by Assoc. Prof. Charles Tushabomwe-Kazooba. He emphasized the project’s focus on infrastructure and human capital development, highlighting its importance for achieving the partnership’s overall goals.
Following this, presentations were made on six key sub-projects:
- Project 1: Improved Conservation Practices for the Environment and Natural Resources: Led by Dr. Medard Twinamastiko, this sub-project explores innovative approaches to environmental conservation.
- Project II: Mechanisms for Climate Change Adaptation for Sustainable Food Production: Presented by Prof. Grace Kagoro, this sub-project focuses on developing strategies to help communities adapt to climate change while ensuring sustainable food production.
- Project III Increased Access and Utilization of Affordable Energy Technologies: Led by . Eng. Dr. Johnes Obungoloch ,was presented by Dr. Imelda Kemeza(PhD) this sub-project aims to expand access to affordable and clean energy technologies.
- Project IV: Improved Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights and Maternal, Newborn, and Child Healthcare: Presented by Assoc. Prof. Ngonzi Joseph, this sub-project focuses on improving healthcare outcomes for women and children.
- Project V: Increased Youth Employability through Skilling, Innovation, and Experiential Learning & Technology Transfer: Led by Dr. Mannaseh Tumuhimbise, this sub-project aims to equip young people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workforce.
- Project VI: Improved Institutional and Community ICT Capacity to Access and Utilize Information: Led by Dr. Fred Kaggwa, this sub-project focuses on enhancing digital literacy and access to information for both the university and the surrounding community.
Vice Chancellor Commends Partnership.
This was followed by an open Discussions, with feedback on better impact and inclusivity. The meeting also included open discussions on how to effectively address critical societal challenges. These discussions fostered collaboration among faculty, students, and community partners, strengthening the overall impact of the MUST-IUC Partnership.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, commended the MUST-IUC Partnership, emphasizing the importance of student inclusion, vulnerable community engagement, and staff/student capacity building. “Prof. Kazooba, thank you for bringing this to MUST and for thinking about the community. Thank you for not giving up; writing a grant requires determination.” She thanked the Top Management members present, noting that their involvement makes discussions easier. She requested the teams to establish a clear and transparent method for selecting postgraduate students to create equal opportunities for all.
Pauline emphasized the need to incorporate staff capacity building, especially for Project 6. She pointed out that the upcoming MUST Research Institute will help us as academics to communicate with each other and not work in silos. Prof. Byakika thanked the project heads for their contributions to MUST, particularly regarding equipment and infrastructure, among other aspects. “Every time you have a project, aim at leaving a lasting impression; we shall always refer to it even when you are gone.” She highlighted the potential of this partnership to make a significant impact on the university and the wider community.
A Successful Conclusion
The MUST-IUC Partnership Implementation Overview Meeting was a resounding success, showcasing the dedication and commitment of all involved. The partnership is poised to make a significant contribution to addressing critical societal challenges and fostering sustainable development in the region.
Meet some of the administrators of the project
Click here for the details of the sub-project achievements, challenges and way-forward.
