_______________

In an effort to spur innovation, the shadow cabinet has requested that the government enhance financing for research at public universities.

The opposition minister for education and Kalungu MP Joseph Ssewungu claimed that public universities lack the funding necessary to do research.

Presenting an alternative policy statement, Ssewungu informed the Education Committee of Parliament, presided over by Twesigye Ntamuhiira Parliament for Bunyaruguru County, "Effective research and innovation are critical for driving the development agenda of the university and the country at large."

He stated that in order to further develop research and innovation, Lira University needs an additional sh1.5b in funding; Uganda Management Institute (UMI) needs an additional sh2b; Makerere University Business School (MUBS) needs an additional sh3.8b for research, publications, and consulting; and Kyambogo University needs an additional sh500m to conduct scientific research in order to further the nation's development.

Research, according to Kashari South MP Nathan Itungo, will allow these universities to explore themes and learn more about them. "Experts will be able to identify topics, challenge conventional wisdom, and find novel approaches to address challenging issues through research," he stated.

The MP for Bukomansimbi South and shadow minister of sports, Ssolo Kayemba, looked into how the government could begin spotting young talent and developing them from the ground up since he believes this will lay a strong basis for the growth of sports.

He declared: “I think each young person has a special gift that can be nurtured and used to improve society."