In a strategic move to align science, innovation, and national development, ISBAT University, in partnership with the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST), successfully hosted the First National Workshop on the Application of Open Science to Deliver Uganda’s National Development Plan (NDP) IV. Themed:
“Open Science for National Development: Unlocking Knowledge for Agro Processing, Tourism, Mining, and Science & Technology”,
the workshop brought together top minds from academia, government, industry, and research institutions to share insights, foster collaboration, and drive innovation across four key sectors.
Welcome Remarks and Opening Session
The workshop began with Dr. K.M. Mathew, Vice Chancellor of ISBAT University, offering his welcome address, where he underscored the role of higher education institutions in facilitating Open Science for social and economic transformation.
“Knowledge has the power to transform societies—when it is accessible. At ISBAT, we are proud to be a catalyst for Uganda’s open science movement,” remarked Dr. Mathew.
This was followed by a powerful message from the Assistant Executive Secretary of UNCST, who outlined the national agenda of embedding Open Science into Uganda’s research, education, and innovation systems.
Global Perspectives on Open Science
Dr. Pradeep Kumar, Director of Academic Affairs at ISBAT University, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the global landscape of Open Science and its direct relevance to Uganda’s development goals. He emphasized the need to break silos between academia and the public by making research findings and data publicly accessible.
“Let the research conducted at Uganda’s universities not gather dust but fuel progress and enterprise,” he said.
📌 Aligning with Vision 2025 and NDP IV
Dr. Fred Muhumuza from Makerere University delivered the keynote address titled:
“Uganda’s Vision 2025 and NDP IV: The Role of Open Science in Delivering National Development Goals.”
He explored how transparency, collaboration, and inclusive knowledge sharing can fast-track national objectives in agriculture, tourism, mineral development, and innovation.
🌱 Boosting Agro-Industrialisation Through Open Science
Prof. Byaruhanga, from Makerere University’s Department of Food Technology, shared research on using expired patents and open-access agricultural technologies to enhance productivity and value chain competitiveness.
“Many patents expire in 20 years, but the technology remains relevant. Open access to this information can revolutionize Uganda’s farming systems,” Prof. Byaruhanga explained, citing examples like tractor design and food processing techniques.
🏞️ Tourism and Data Innovation
Ms. Doreen Ninsiima, representing the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), delivered a timely presentation on Data-Driven Tourism for Sustainable Growth. She outlined how Open Science tools such as shared datasets, geographic intelligence, and citizen science can promote responsible tourism management and environmental conservation.
⚒️ Responsible Mining and Open Science Ethics
In a compelling panel session, Ms. Daphine Nimusiima, Head of Operations at UCEM and ISBAT University’s representative, spoke on:
“How can Open Science Approaches Enhance Responsible and Ethical Mining Practices?”
Her contribution centered around a sustainable business model:
“We believe in Planet, People, and Profit. When we take care of the planet, we support the people. And when people are empowered, businesses thrive.”
She further encouraged ongoing dialogue at the upcoming 14th Annual Mineral Wealth Conference, scheduled for September 24–25, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel, Kampala.
🧪 Private Sector and Research Integration
Dr. Adelo Omara, founder of Delight Uganda Ltd, represented the private sector and echoed the industry’s keen interest in integrating Open Science principles to address real-world industrial challenges.
“We are eager to work with scientists and researchers to boost productivity and tackle pressing challenges,” he noted.
📊 NARO’s Model for Open Data Access
The Director of Research at MUZARDI-NARO presented Uganda’s already active participation in the Open Science movement. He showcased the NARO Information Hub, a platform where research materials, datasets, and tools are freely accessible to researchers, farmers, and the public.
🌟 Conclusion: A New Era of Science for Development
This National Open Science Workshop stands as a major milestone in Uganda’s journey toward knowledge-driven development. The event reaffirms the central role of ISBAT University and UNCST in driving collaborative innovation, transparency, and real-world impact.
As Uganda gears up to implement NDP IV and Vision 2040, partnerships like this serve as key enablers of inclusive, sustainable growth powered by Open Science.
