In a display of academic brilliance and technical mastery, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) emerged as the undisputed champions of the Petrobowl 2026 competition. The highly anticipated event, held from March 26–27, saw MUST deliver a commanding performance in the finals, defeating Makerere University (MUK) with a decisive score of 120 to 85.
The Petrobowl and its sister competition, PetroVoice, gathered the brightest minds from across Uganda to debate and solve complex challenges facing the energy sector. Beyond the high-stakes quizzes, the two-day event featured innovative project exhibitions and specialized training sessions focused on technical research paper writing, equipping students with the tools to lead the future of the industry.
Meet the Stars: The Winning Lineup: The victory was steered by a dedicated team of scholars who demonstrated exceptional teamwork and depth of knowledge. Led by Team Captain Kuganja Daniel, the MUST delegation included:
The team travelled under the expert guidance of their seating coach, Eng. Tito Alazewa, whose mentorship was instrumental in navigating the rigorous rounds of the competition.
PetroVoice Debate: Excellence in Discourse: In the PetroVoice Debate Championship, conducted under the British Parliamentary format, MUST continued its streak of excellence. In a fiercely contested final, MUST secured a proud 2nd Place finish, trailing only the hosts, Kyambogo University.
Individual brilliance was also on display as Muhangi Edward (MUST) was recognized as the 3rd Best Speaker of the entire tournament. This year’s PetroVoice highlighted the university’s prowess in critical thinking and deep energy-sector insight.
Innovation & Research: Leading the Pack: The spirit of innovation was most evident during the project exhibitions. MUST’s Canopy AI, developed by Curtis Victor Mabirizi, Ainebyona Caleb, and Mugoya Jonathan, took center stage. This cutting-edge project, which uses satellite imagery and AI to detect deforestation, was named the Best Exhibition. We extend our warmest congratulations to the team for this timely and impactful solution.
Furthermore, MUST dominated the academic writing arena, with Sseruyange Innocent emerging as the Overall Winner of the Paper Contest, showcasing our students’ ability to produce world-class technical research.
Message from the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika
“It is with immense pride and joy that I congratulate our students for their stellar performance at the Petrobowl and PetroVoice 2026. This victory is a testament to the culture of excellence, innovation, and rigorous academic discipline that defines Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
From the technical dominance of our Petrobowl team (Kuganja Daniel, Kawooya Dan Mark, Ahumuza Davis, Okwel Kenneth and Musisi Sharifa Patience) to the strategic brilliance of our debaters like Muhangi Edward, and the visionary ‘Canopy AI’ team (Curtis Victor Mabirizi, Ainebyona Caleb, and Mugoya Jonathan), you have shown that MUST is a powerhouse of talent. To our winners, including Sseruyange Innocent in the paper contest: you are the embodiment of our ‘Global Innovation’ brand.
We also extend our gratitude to Eng. Tito Alazewa for his dedicated coaching and mentorship. You have all not only taken the crown; you have raised the standard for the entire energy industry. Keep soaring! You are truly the ‘Silicon Valley of the West’ in action.”
