NATIONAL SCIENCE WEEK 2023: Uganda Tusimbudde!!!
Hosted by the Science, Technology, and Innovation Secretariat — Office of the President (STI-OP), the National Science Week is a hallmark event in Uganda’s annual calendar. It is strategically designed to focus the nation on the role and progress made in deploying Science, Technology, and Innovation in from a peasant to a modern and prosperous country by 2040. The National Science Week 2023 served as a pivotal platform, strategically designed to showcase the milestones Uganda has achieved in the domains of science, technology, and innovation, not only on a national scale but also on the global stage. The theme for this year’s nationwide exhibition was “Uganda Tusimbudde! A Science-Led Journey Towards Social Economic Transformation”. The showcase of innovations developed in Uganda during the National science week was held from November 6–11, 2023 at the Kololo Independence Grounds, in Kampala.
A total of over 400 exhibitors in the innovation space took part in the 3rd edition of the National Science Week. This week delivered a wide array of engaging activities, including; regional exhibitions, a dedicated press day, interactions with academia and students, insightful roundtable discussions, and an investor forum tailored to addressing the financial challenges faced by early-stage ventures and innovators in the country.
The climax of the exhibition was celebrated on Family Day, featuring captivating performances by talented artists and local entertainers. This day also served as a platform to honor Uganda’s exceptional science entrepreneurs and innovators who have made significant contributions to Uganda’s progress. The week was officially inaugurated by His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni who doubled as the guest of honor.
KMC collaborated with Mobility value chain actors namely Savannah Power Limited and KaCyber Technologies to deliver a memorable Mobility exhibition for Ugandans. One Kayoola bus was deployed to showcase a live demo of the future of Uganda’s efficient, safe, and sustainable Public Transport throughout the exhibition to ferry Ugandans from Lugogo, Kampala to Kololo Independence Grounds. KaCyber Technologies installed cashless payment system for bus fares. The Kayoola Coach was used to offer an executive experience to the investors during the Investor Conference. An Electric Vehicle Portable Charger was also exhibited alongside this live demo to offer a complete E-Mobility Ecosystem representing the various opportunities Ugandans can adopt in the Mobility industry.
The Kayoola EVS was a major centre of attraction at the exhibition, capturing the interest of both students and the general public. It heralds a new era in public transportation, boasting impressive features such as spacious interiors, USB ports, WIFI connectivity, ample seating capacity, and the cutting-edge Electric Vehicle technology.
The Mobility Industrial and Technology Park (MITP) served as an enlightening experience, revealing the preparedness of the Mobility Industry to facilitate the emergence of Vehicle Parts Manufacturing. Attendees were informed about the numerous components that make up a typical vehicle, emphasizing the opportunity for individuals to invest in and contribute to the initiative aimed at localizing the supply chain.
The public was enlightened on the 180KW EV Charger emphasizing its potential to unlock opportunities within the E-Mobility sector. They were informed of the crucial role chargers play in ensuring the continuous operation of Electric Vehicles on the roads. The readily available opportunity became a significant prospect for private sector investors to collaborate and establish energy centres, paving the way for short-term revenue generation.
The Chief Executive Officer Paul Isaac Musasizi participated in the Investor Summit Panel Discussion where he shared KMC’s intention to export the Kayoola buses to spur economic development from the country.
The Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabanjja visited the Kiira Motors Stall and briefed on short term goals of the corporation. The Prime Minister also launched the Cashless Payment Card by KaCyber Technologies as she closed the National Science Week 2023 activities.
The National Science Week 2023 effectively showcased Uganda’s evolving Mobility Industry, allowing the public to witness and embrace the nation’s strides in Mobility Solutions. It was a platform for Ugandans to explore opportunities within this burgeoning sector, encouraging active participation in a thriving economy.
