The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) has today officially opened the 7th Annual Higher Education Conference in Gulu under the theme “Harnessing Innovations in Higher Education for Accelerated Economic Transformation.”
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.
Key discussions are focusing on competence-based curricula, innovative teaching approaches, and how reforms in higher education can improve graduate employability and relevance in today’s economy.
While adressing the conference, the Executive Director, Prof. Mary J.N. Okwakol, emphasised the critical role of innovation, research, and digital learning in driving Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.
She highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen quality assurance, promote industry partnerships, and align academic programmes with market needs through competence-based education.
Prof. Joy C. Kwesiga, Chairperson of NCHE, called for higher education in Uganda to move beyond theory and become a key driver of economic transformation through research, innovation, and technology transfer.
She 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.
Prof. Kwesiga stressed that funding remains a critical challenge, urging increased investment in high-level laboratories, incubation centres, and commercialization of student and staff innovations.
She emphasised that with deliberate support, higher education can drive productivity, create wealth, and position Uganda as a knowledge-based economy.
