KAMPALA, April 24, 2024 – Makerere University (MaK) in Uganda has organized its first annual forum for graduate research and policy dialogue to bridge the gap between academia and industry.

The two-day event scheduled to kick off this morning, April 25^th, 2024 at the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility (CFT2), will attract seasoned researchers, early career researchers (especially doctoral students at Makerere), and stakeholders in the policy terrain to a dialogue on research and policy implementation.

The event, which has been merged with the annual doctoral convention, will be opened by the State Minister for Higher Education Hon. Dr Chrysostom Muyingo, and graced by Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo, the Special Advisor to President Yoweri Museveni as a keynote speaker.

According to the Chairperson of the organizing committee, Prof Julius Kikoma, this year’s forum is themed “REGIONAL INTEGRATION AND DEVELOPMENT” to serve as a pivotal platform for fostering dynamic discourse among academia, policymakers, and stakeholders, aiming to bridge the gap between research and policy implementation in Uganda and the region.

“This year’s forum will assemble leading scholars, policymakers, and experts for insightful discussions and presentations addressing national and regional policy challenges and advocating for sustainable development,” he promises.

He adds that against the backdrop of the imperative for evidence-based policymaking, the forum will further explore innovative solutions and strategies to enhance regional integration and catalyze growth.

Commencing on Thursday, April 25^th, 2024, at 9: am and concluding on Friday, April 26^th, 2024, the event will feature a diverse array of activities, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, and parallel presentations covering key sub-themes such as Health Systems, Energy Systems and Climate Change, Governance, Economic & Social Change, Innovation, Science, and Technological Advancement, Natural Resources Management, Food Security, and Competence-Based Learning.

“This event is organized as a forum, not a conference. That is more of a conversational space for scholars, decision-makers, and other stakeholders to reflect on the importance of evidence-based policymaking and use the platform to highlight emerging issues relating to Research as a public good,” Prof. Kikoma emphasized.

The President of the Makerere University PhD students Forum, Ms. Claire Cheromoi says the event is an opportunity for the students to learn and improve their ongoing research.

“We hope to benefit greatly from useful feedback and also learn how the policy environment can dialogue with reach,” she says.

With its esteemed reputation for fostering academic excellence and driving positive change, Makerere University will be taking pride in hosting this significant gathering dedicated to advancing impact research, promoting informed policy dialogue, and fostering regional development.

The forum has been sponsored by Makerere University and the Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (MaKRIF).

Prof. Kikoma says the forum will be blended to benefit those who might not attend it physically. 

Proceedings can be followed online via this link: Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://zoom.us/j/96397219626?pwd=clVxMGZzQVV2T2dCcUw4SmdwSkkxZz09. Passcode: 826702

About The Author

Arinaitwe Rugyendo

Rugyendo is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of ResearchFinds News. He’s an accomplished journalist with a rich background in the media industry in Uganda. With over two decades of experience, Rugyendo has held various roles including cab reporter, Bureau Chief, Managing Editor, and Digital Media Editor at renowned publications such as Daily Monitor and Red Pepper. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a commitment to delivering high-quality journalism and staying at the forefront of media trends. In addition to his journalistic pursuits, Rugyendo is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Journalism and Communication at Makerere University. He has been recognized for his outstanding leadership and commitment to social change as a Desmond Tutu Fellow and Crans Montana New Leader. Rugyendo also serves as the Chairman of Young Engineers Uganda and Uganda Premier League, showcasing his dedication to promoting excellence and growth in various fields. With a passion for driving innovation and pushing boundaries in media, Rugyendo continues to make significant contributions to the industry. His vast experience, academic pursuits, and leadership roles make him a respected figure in the Ugandan media landscape.

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