On 7th March, 2026, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) recently joined the global community in celebrating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science by hosting a high-energy Science Exhibition. The event brought together 15 secondary schools from South Western Uganda, uniting brilliant young minds, dedicated educators, and world-class scientists to dismantle stereotypes and champion the role of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
While the UN officially commemorates this day on February 11th, MUST strategically hosted the Science Fair in March to align with International Women’s Month, ensuring the message of gender equality in science resonates during a school term that allows for maximum student participation.
Breaking Barriers in ICT and Science
The celebration opened with inspiring remarks from Dr. Priscilla Muheki, the event organizer and a renowned Astrophysicist. She extended her gratitude to the University administration, specifically the Vice Chancellor Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika and the Dean of the Faculty of Science, Dr. Eunice Olet, for their unwavering support.
“Science fairs like this remind us that science is something we experience firsthand as we strive to understand and improve the world around us,” Dr. Muheki noted. She particularly commended the visiting teachers many of whom are MUST alumni for mentoring the next generation of innovators.
Dr. David Okot Kilama, Head of the Physics Department, echoed this sentiment, offering a message of empowerment. “Whether you are breaking the outdated myth that science is ‘only for men’ or standing firm in your personal values, remember that your journey starts with you,” he stated.
Resilience, Leadership, and Global Perspectives
The Dean of the Faculty of Science, Dr. Eunice Olet, challenged the girls to maintain courage in the face of setbacks, noting that their determination today will position them as future champions of change solutions in Uganda.
The event also featured a powerful keynote from Dr. Hellen Maziku, a senior lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam and a cyber security and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
specialist. Sharing her journey from being the daughter of a domestic worker to a leading researcher in Cyber Security and AI, she provided four pillars for growth:
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Find a Mentor: Do not walk the path alone; find someone who represents where you want to be.
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Show Up & Stay Consistent: You will find opportunities simply by being the person who consistently does their best.
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Be a Positive Team Player: Value the people around you as much as the project.
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Purpose Beyond Self: Use your skills to add value to your community.
A Message from the Vice Chancellor
“Success in science requires focus, discipline, and passion. Work hard, build your self-esteem, and stay curious,” Prof. Byakika-Kibwika advised. She also emphasized the importance of spiritual grounding: “As scientists, you may meet people who discourage your faith. Hold onto your values and your relationship with God; your faith and determination will take you miles.” In her address, she also urged the students to pair their technical skills with strong character.
In a special highlight, the Faculty of Science honored Professor Pauline Byakika-Kibwika for her exemplary leadership in science and innovation.
Celebrating Innovation
The day culminated in a competitive pitching process, where students presented their projects to a panel of judges from MUST and Bishop Stuart University. There was also an exhibition that took place simultaneously where students got an opportunity to explore different fields of science including astronomy and Space Science, Biotechnology and Robotics.
moment for them.
projects.
The following schools emerged as winners for their exceptional presentations and innovation:
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1st Place: Sacred Heart SS Mushanga
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2nd Place: Bugamba SS
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3rd Place: Revival Girls High School
The ceremony was closed by the moderator, Angella Nakato Muyingo (Senior Communications Officer), who left the students with a powerful rhythmic charge:
“When everyone is seated, stand up. When everyone stands up, stand out. When everyone stands out, set standards.”
As these young women returned to their schools, they did so with a renewed sense of purpose, proving once again that when it comes to breaking barriers in STEM, Succeed we MUST.
This event was supported by the funding from the Organisation of Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) through the Early Career Fellowship of Dr Priscilla Muheki.
