By Patrick Opio
Senior Communications Officer
Former Vice Chancellor, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Prof. Celestino Obua, has urged universities to consider research as core programme for them to globally compete in the 21st century.
Prof. Obua, also chairperson, Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) noted that Research plays a crucial role in policy making process where innovative findings are important. “Research provides info which feeds into the policy formulation. Communicate research findings immediately and encourage public debates,” he said, adding Government has science pack, where innovation issues are supported.
Prof. Obua was the Keynote Speaker at Lira University First Annual Research Dissemination, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation Exhibition Conference held on 23rd April 2025 at Faculty of Education Block, Lira University. It will run up to 25th April, 2025, with the Minister of STI, Hon. Dr. Musenero crowning it up.
He further underscored the importance of the conference as paramount in the university for sharing information and showcasing what has been done at the university.
He revealed that Grant writing is paramount, a big revenue source for development. “As a researcher, ask what impacts the research will do, what problems are the research aiming to solve in the society,” he said.
“Know your research funder, cultivate into your research funder, account for the money in time and keep communicating the implementation processes of research to the funder in order to attract more funding,” Prof. Obua said.
He noted that the academic- industry partnership is crucial. “Please stimulate and encourage research industry, take Academia-Industry collaborations seriously,” he urges.
Assoc. Prof. Bernard Omech, Director of Graduate and Research Training, said the conference was a landmark event under the theme: “Bridging the Gaps: The role of Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship in National Social and Economic Transformation.”
The University Council Speaker, Mr. Geoffrey Opio Okello lauded Lira University for organising the conference, showcasing what they have done in research and innovation areas. He added that the Council is committed to beef up efforts in making the young university continue its fast developing pace.
Mr. Opio Okello, former Deputy Governor Bank of Uganda, advised that Research should be able to impact society. “Researchers must use impactful research ideas, high quality research, a good understanding of the policy environment,” he reveals.
Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jasper Ogwal Okeng noted that such conference will be included in the annual academic programmes to boost research and innovations activities in the university. He praised the Council, Management and staff of the university for the team spirit always exhibited in spurring development in the institution.
Prof. Ogwal Okeng advised researchers to consider intellectual property rights for ownership and business continuity adding that research is very crucial with support to a multidisciplinary research groups at the university. He expressed happiness to students of Lira University for taking up research seriously.
