The Minister of State for Higher Education, Hon. Dr. John C. Muyingo, this afternoon officially opened the 16th Higher Education Exhibition, highlighting its role as a key platform for innovation, collaboration, and economic transformation.
Speaking at the event in Gulu City, Dr. Muyingo commended the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) for organising the exhibition and for adopting a regional rotation model, noting that hosting it in Northern Uganda promotes inclusivity and aligns innovations with regional priorities.
He emphasised that the exhibition goes beyond display, providing institutions with an opportunity to showcase research, innovations, and practical solutions while responding to labour market needs.
Dr. Muyingo noted that the theme on harnessing innovation aligns with Ugandaโs development agenda, stressing that investment in science, technology, and human capital is critical for building a modern, knowledge-based economy.
He reiterated governmentโs directive requiring all higher education institutions to align programmes to Competence-Based Education and Training (CBET), warning that by the 2027/2028 academic year, non-compliant programmes will not be accredited.
The Minister also outlined governmentโs commitment to increasing funding for research and innovation, strengthening ICT infrastructure, and supporting incubation centres to promote entrepreneurship.
He urged institutions to focus on commercialising research and called on students to embrace innovation and become job creators.
