GULU, UGANDA – The Executive Director of the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE), Prof. Mary J. N. Okwakol, has emphasized that innovation, research, and digital learning are critical drivers of Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The seasoned educationist made the remarks while speaking at the opening of the 7th Annual Higher Education Conference in Gulu City today, March 23, 2026.
The event, themed “Harnessing Innovations in Higher Education for Accelerated Economic Transformation,” is organized by the National Council for Higher Education.
Prof. Okwakol, a former chairperson of the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB), highlighted the need to strengthen quality assurance and promote industry partnerships.
She underscored ongoing efforts to align academic programs with market needs through competence-based education, positioning higher education as a catalyst for national development.
“Through competence-based education, strong industry partnerships, and rigorous quality assurance, we are realigning our academic programs to meet market demands and accelerate Uganda’s economic future,” Prof. Okwakol stated.
The Chairperson of NCHE, Prof. Joy C. Kwesiga, highlighted the importance of STEM education, digital learning, and strong partnerships between universities, industry, and government to ensure graduates are job-ready and innovations reach the market.
She stressed that funding remains a critical challenge, urging increased investment in high-level laboratories, incubation centers, and the commercialization of student and staff innovations.
“Higher education in Uganda must move beyond theory to become a true engine of economic transformation. To ensure our graduates are job-ready and our innovations reach the market, we must forge powerful partnerships between universities, industry, and government,” said Prof. Kwesiga.
The 7th Annual Higher Education Conference provides a platform for policymakers, academia, and industry to collaborate on practical solutions that translate research and innovation into tangible economic impact.
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