education 8 October 2026 Nile Post
Uganda Advocates for Research Integration in Policy and Development
Uganda is urging for a stronger integration of research findings into public policy, industry, and community initiatives to ensure that academic knowledge directly fuels national development. The Acting Minister of Education highlighted research as a critical tool for tackling the nation's challenges. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/376552/uganda-calls-for-stronger-link-between-research-policy-and-national-devt
Uganda is making a strong call to bridge the gap between academic research and practical national development. The nation emphasizes the need for a more robust connection between knowledge generation in universities and research institutions, public policy, industry, and the wider community.
Acting Minister of Education and Sports, John Chrysostom Muyingo, articulated this vision at the EU–Uganda Research and Study Fair 2026 held at Makerere University. He stressed that research should transcend purely academic pursuits to become a vital instrument for addressing the country’s pressing social and economic issues.
Muyingo pointed out that Uganda faces numerous challenges and opportunities, including climate change, food security, public health crises, digital transformation, energy needs, environmental protection, and employment generation, all of which necessitate evidence-based solutions.
“Research must be recognised as an essential pillar of our national development,” Muyingo stated, advocating for universities and research centres to evolve into hubs that not only produce knowledge but also convert it into tangible benefits for communities.
He urged researchers to collaborate closely with government bodies, industries, and local communities. This collaboration, he believes, will ensure that research outcomes effectively inform decision-making processes and foster the creation of impactful innovations and technologies.
The minister also encouraged Ugandan academics and institutions to pursue and strengthen international partnerships, particularly with European counterparts. Such collaborations can open doors to greater research funding, facilitate knowledge exchange, and expand opportunities for joint projects.
This appeal for integrated research comes at a significant time as Uganda and the European Union mark 50 years of partnership, with cooperation in education, skills development, and research being a cornerstone of their relationship.