_______________

KAMPALA - Makerere College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) and the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at bolstering industrial research efforts.

The collaboration would harness research capabilities to address challenges within Uganda’s manufacturing sector, thereby boosting its growth and competitiveness. 

Makerere in line with its strategic objectives, prioritizes forging strong partnerships and upholding a research-centric approach.

At the MoU signing ceremony held at UMA on February 27, 2024, Deo JB Kayemba, the Chairman of UMA’s Board, referenced the significant progress witnessed in countries like India, Japan, and South Korea, attributing it to the integration of research in supporting industrial advancement.

He emphasized the pivotal role of innovation in driving the manufacturing sector forward and underscored the necessity of collaboration in realizing research-led manufacturing.

Prof. Eria Hisali, the Principal of CoBAMS at Makerere expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts and committed to operationalizing the MoU.

He stressed the importance of enhancing graduates’ practical skills by involving industry experts in curriculum development and delivery, thus enriching students’ knowledge base and fostering skills development.

Prof. Hisali highlighted the imperative to innovate in support of industry, manufacturing, and technology, aligning with the overarching objective of promoting locally manufactured goods and self-sufficiency.

The partnership will encompass various activities, including joint research endeavours, publication of findings, policy paper writing, and engagement with relevant stakeholders.

Specific initiatives under the MoU include providing internship opportunities to selected students, facilitating knowledge transfer and staff exchange programs, organizing joint seminars, workshops, and conferences aimed at skill development, and collaborating on curriculum review and development to align with industry needs.