Busitema University joined researchers, industry practitioners, regulators, government officials and students at the 10th National Conference on Communications, where discussions focused on how Uganda can turn research and emerging technologies into solutions that respond to the country’s development needs.

The University was represented by Assoc.Prof. Gilbert Gilibrays Ocen, Director of Information and Communications Technology Services (DICTS), who attended on behalf of Vice Chancellor Prof. Paul Waako.

Held on 24 and 25 September 2026 at Makerere University’s Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, the conference was organised by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and hosted by Makerere University’s College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology. This year’s theme, “Accelerating Market-Driven Research and Innovation for Uganda’s Development,” placed particular emphasis on strengthening the connection between research, industry and practical application.

At the opening, Minister of ICT and National Guidance Rt. Hon. Justine Kasule Lumumba emphasised Government’s commitment to improving access to ICT services, advancing digitalisation and strengthening public-private partnerships. She joined leaders from government, academia and the communications sector at an opening programme that reflected the range of institutions involved in Uganda’s digital transformation.

That relationship between research and its practical use remained a major part of the discussions. UCC Executive Director Hon. Nyombi Thembo challenged researchers and innovators to look beyond producing knowledge and consider how their work can become solutions that address local challenges, improve livelihoods and contribute to economic development.

Research presentations formed a significant part of the two-day programme. The conference accepted 26 technical papers, with work spanning artificial intelligence, telecommunications, digital platforms, electric mobility, energy systems, language technologies and other emerging areas.

The programme also brought industry into the discussion through panels and interactive sessions examining how Uganda can move from expanding digital connectivity to creating greater economic and social value from it. According to the conference organisers, NCC is intended to discuss engineering solutions to local challenges, examine changing industry trends and connect young professionals with experienced practitioners in academia, government and the ICT sector.

Young innovators were part of that conversation as well. School ICT Clubs took part in an innovation showcase, with students presenting technology-based solutions to problems in areas including agriculture, waste management, mobility, education and energy. Eight schools reached the national stage after progressing through regional competitions, placing student innovation alongside university research and industry discussions.

Assoc. Prof. Ocen also used the conference to engage with representatives from academia, industry and the communications sector, with some of the discussions opening possible areas of collaboration between Busitema University and institutions represented at the meeting.