Kyambogo University has hosted the 5th Edition of its STEAM Festival alongside the Competitive Research Grants Dissemination Conference, running from April 21 to 23, 2026. Held under the theme “Demystifying Science, Technology and Innovation for Community Development,” the event brought together researchers, policymakers, students, and industry stakeholders to showcase innovation and strengthen the link between research and societal transformation.
Launched in 2022 by the Faculty of Science, the STEAM Festival has grown into a multidisciplinary platform that promotes collaboration across science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. This year’s edition further cemented the university’s role as a national hub for research-driven solutions and innovation.
The Chief Guest, Minister of Education and Sports Janet Museveni, was represented by Dr. Timothy Musoke Ssejjoba, Acting Commissioner for University Education and Training at the Ministry. In his remarks, Dr. Ssejjoba delivered the Minister’s message, emphasizing government commitment to research funding and innovation. He noted that the festival plays a vital role in bridging the gap between academic research and real-world application, and called on students to actively embrace science and innovation for national development. He officially opened the conference proceedings.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Cosmas Mwikitize from the Office of the President outlined Uganda’s ambitious roadmap toward ten-fold economic growth. His presentation highlighted the central role of science, technology, and innovation as key drivers of development, contributing up to 80 percent of economic transformation. He stressed that while traditional sectors remain foundational, innovation serves as the multiplier.
Dr. Mwikitize also pointed to Uganda’s long-term goal of achieving a $405 billion economy, noting that this would require the creation of at least 100 “unicorn” companies. He identified emerging sectors such as mobility, pathogen economy, aeronautics and space science, infrastructure innovation, and Industry 4.0+ as critical to this vision.
Associate Professor Nakyinsige Khadijah, Head of the Department of Food Science and Technology, provided an overview of the STEAM initiative. She expressed optimism that the research presented would extend beyond academic discourse and deliver tangible impact within communities. She also commended the university leadership for supporting research funding and congratulated participants for their contributions.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of Kyambogo University reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to advancing research and innovation. He highlighted the evolution of the university’s research funding, noting that the initial UGX 1 billion allocated in 2018 has since been boosted by an additional UGX 3 billion from the government.
He urged stakeholders to move beyond theoretical learning and focus on practical application, emphasizing that the festival celebrates not only innovation but also its adoption and real-world impact. The Vice Chancellor also acknowledged challenges posed by rapid technological advancements, particularly artificial intelligence, noting the need for continuous learning across all generations.
The three-day event features exhibitions, research presentations, and interactive sessions aimed at promoting knowledge exchange and fostering partnerships. As the STEAM Festival continues to grow, it stands as a key platform for driving Uganda’s innovation agenda and aligning academic research with national development priorities.
