Tayebwa challenges universities on research

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Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has tasked universities with emphasising research and innovation to address Africa’s critical problems and drive economic transformation in the country.

“Institutions of higher learning should invest in research and innovation to develop solutions for Uganda and Africa’s unique challenges,” he advised, citing China’s development of artemisinin (coartem) as a malaria treatment.

He noted that the development has significantly contributed to China’s progress in malaria control.

Tayebwa emphasised the importance of research that benefits society and enhances university portfolios, acknowledging that while international research funding has decreased, the Government has increased its support.

Tayebwa added that the university ought to take advantage of the Government’s growing interest and funding in research. “Government investment in research might not be sufficient, but it is a good gesture and I encourage King Ceasor University to compete for such funds,” he said.

The Deputy Speaker made the remarks during the 5th graduation ceremony of King Ceasor University in Kampala on May 5, 2025.

A total of 280 students graduated, comprising 224 degree recipients and 56 diploma recipients.

Tayebwa stressed that university education should be transformative, urging King Ceasor University to focus on areas that address societal needs.

“Let’s invest more in upholding what we have achieved in quality assurance, and we will attract more. If we maintain this momentum, very soon, this university shall be among the best in East Africa,” he said.

Tayebwa further challenged academicians to think beyond traditional confines, adding that in developed countries, lecturers are required to contribute to their institution’s economic sustainability through research, a practice that not only boosts revenue but also fosters innovation.

The Deputy Speaker urged graduates to harness their talents and the knowledge they have acquired to create opportunities, not only for themselves but also for the world around them.

Honorary Consul of Vietnam to Uganda, Ceasor Mulenga, called on the university to introduce a two-to-three-month certificate course in technology for all students, covering areas of artificial intelligence, quantum technology, virtual reality and the Internet.

“So, we request that the management puts technology at the centre of training so that it becomes a centre of excellence through partnerships,” Mulenga, who is also the Chancellor of King Ceasor University, said.

Presiding over a mass at the university, Kampala Catholic Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere advised the graduates to use their education to combat corruption and injustice in the country.

Charter

National Council of Higher Education executive director Prof. Mary Okwakol said the agency is set to grant a charter to King Ceasor University because it has fulfilled the council’s requirements.

“As far as standards are concerned, King Ceasor University is in very good standing. I would like to say without fear and favour that we are in the final stages of granting the university a charter,” she disclosed.

A chartered university is an institution of higher learning that has the legal right to confer degrees and operate as an independent educational entity.

Present at the graduation ceremony were the ICT minister Chris Baryomunsi, state minister of foreign affairs Okello Oryem, former Prime Minister Dr Ruhakana Rugunda and visiting professors from different universities across the globe.