On May 28, 2025, Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, Vice Chancellor of Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), hosted Dr. Jenn Brenner, an Associate Professor of Pediatrics from the Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary (UC), Canada. The meeting celebrated and strategized for the longstanding partnership between MUST and UoC, which has thrived for over two decades. The discussions highlighted key achievements of the partnership, including:
- Collaborative Projects: Healthy Adolescents and Young People (HAY!), MamaToto, and Mama na Mtoto district led MNCAH programs, Uganda and Tanzania
- Simulation Training: Hands-on training through the Simulation for Life program at MUST.
- PhD Scholarships: Opportunities for MUST scholars to study at UC.
- Resident Rotations: Practical training for MUST Emergency Medicine residents at UC.
- Field Schools: Month-long programs fostering cultural exchange and collaborative problem-solving between MUST, UC students and communities.
- Elective Placements: Hosting UC students at MUST for specialized electives.
- Small grant research Initiatives: Supporting small-scale, high-impact research projects
- Digital Storytelling: Developing and sharing impactful narratives of health and community work including developing regional specific stories for MoH.
- ACRI Partnership: Engagement with the Alberta Children’s Research Institute (ACRI).
Key attendees from MUST included; Mr. Vincent Kwatampora, University Secretary, Prof. Jerome Kabakyenga, co-founder of Healthy Child Uganda, Dr. Hamson Kanyesigye, the Deputy Chief Research Officer, Department of Maternal, Newborn, Child Health and Research (DMNCHR) and Ms. Sheila Niinye Twinamatsiko, Senior Communications Officer – International Relations.
Prof. Byakika-Kibwika appreciated the engagements under the partnership and encouraged the team to expand their scope by introducing courses in bioinformatics, enabling broader public engagement in data analysis and research. She also emphasized the importance of developing PhD programs tailored to maternal health and community engagement, aligning academic efforts with the partnership’s impactful work.
Succeed we MUST.
