education 26 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
NCHE Urges Policy Reforms to Boost University Innovation in Uganda
The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) has highlighted policy shortcomings in the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act that hinder innovation and commercialization in higher learning institutions. At the 16th Annual Higher Education Exhibition in Gulu, NCHE leaders called on the government to amend regulations amid challenges like funding shortages and regulatory overlaps. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/policy-gaps-hurting-innovation-among-universities-nche-says-5404370
The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) warns that outdated policies are stifling innovation in Uganda’s universities. Speaking at the launch of the 16th Annual Higher Education Exhibition at Gulu University, NCHE Chairman Dr. Hajj Mugalu urged State Minister for Higher Education Dr. John Chris Muyingo to advocate for amendments to the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act.
Dr. Mugalu pointed to regulatory overlaps, weak enforcement, legal gaps, inadequate funding, and slow adaptation to new technologies as major barriers. These issues create confusion and inefficiency, diverting time from research and prototyping to compliance battles.
“Unless these limitations are fixed promptly, our industrialization goals will remain elusive,” he stated, emphasizing the need to unblock channels for innovation commercialization observed at the exhibition stalls.
NCHE Executive Director Prof. Mary Okwakol highlighted financial constraints preventing institutions from turning research into marketable products. She noted recent developments like a new research and innovation policy and strategic agenda to guide higher education efforts. The ongoing Higher Education Week conference resolved to translate outputs into societal solutions, with a report set for submission to the Ministry of Education and Sports.
Dr. Muyingo acknowledged the challenges, including low funding and limited industry ties, but affirmed the ministry’s commitment to policy revisions, increased funding, and coordinated action among stakeholders. The exhibition, themed ‘Harnessing Innovation in Higher Education for Accelerated Economic Transformation,’ showcases university innovations and fosters links between academia, industry, and government.