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Uganda's efforts to build a greener and more competitive textile industry have received a major boost after Busitema University received advanced textile processing equipment funded by the United Kingdom Government and the European Union. The investment will enable researchers to transform agricultural waste such as banana fibre into high-value textile products while training the next generation of textile engineers.

The equipment, delivered to the University's Faculty of Engineering and Technology on June 25, 2026 marks a significant milestone in Busitema University's growing role as a centre for textile engineering, sustainable manufacturing and applied research. Once fully installed and commissioned, the facilities will expand the University's capacity to undertake advanced textile research, support innovation and strengthen practical training for students preparing to join Uganda's manufacturing sector.

The equipment was officially received by Vice Chancellor Prof. Paul Waako, accompanied by members of the University Top Management, representatives of the University Council and the Principal Investigator for both projects, Dr. Edwin Kamalha.

The investment comes through two flagship international development projects that are transforming textile education and research at Busitema University.

The first consignment was procured under the BANATEX-EA (Sustainable Textiles through Upscaling and Commercialisation of Banana Fibre Value Addition in East Africa) project, funded by the United Kingdom Government through the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) under the Sustainable Manufacturing and Environmental Pollution (SMEP) Programme.

It includes specialised fibre preparation and spinning equipment that will enable researchers to convert processed natural fibres into yarn suitable for textile production. The machinery fills a critical gap in the banana fibre value chain by allowing researchers to move from fibre processing to yarn development using locally available raw materials.

The research has the potential to unlock new economic opportunities by turning banana pseudostems previously treated as agricultural waste into valuable raw materials for the textile industry. In doing so, it supports Uganda's transition towards a circular bioeconomy while creating new income opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs and manufacturers.

The second consignment was delivered through the European Union-funded METODIC Project. It includes commercial knitting machines, industrial embroidery systems, as well as laboratory-scale dyeing and textile finishing equipment.

Beyond enhancing classroom instruction, the new facilities will expose students to modern textile manufacturing technologies used in industry, strengthen research in textile product development and sustainable processing, and support graduate innovation and entrepreneurship by enabling young innovators to prototype and commercialise new textile products.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Vice Chancellor Prof. Paul Waako commended the project team for successfully attracting international research funding that continues to strengthen the University's research and innovation capacity.

He described the delivery as a major institutional achievement that reflects Busitema University's growing reputation as a trusted international research partner capable of implementing high-impact development projects.

Prof. Waako said the equipment would strengthen academic excellence while contributing directly to Uganda's industrial transformation through research, technology transfer, innovation and skills development. He reaffirmed the University's commitment to ensuring the facilities are fully utilised to develop commercially relevant technologies that address national development priorities.

Dr. Edwin Kamalha thanked the University's leadership, Top Management and Council for their continued support throughout the implementation of both the BANATEX-EA and METODIC projects. He noted that the successful acquisition of the sophisticated equipment was made possible through strong institutional commitment and close collaboration with local and international partners.

He said the research teams remain committed to translating scientific research into commercially viable technologies that support Uganda's manufacturing sector while building the skilled workforce needed to drive future industrial growth.

Installation and technical testing of the equipment is already underway and is expected to be completed within the next two days. Once commissioned, the facilities will immediately support postgraduate research, undergraduate practical training and collaborative projects with industry.

The new infrastructure is expected to position Busitema University among Africa's emerging leaders in sustainable natural fibre research, advanced textile manufacturing and circular economy innovations. It also reinforces the University's contribution to Uganda's industrialisation agenda by strengthening collaboration between academia, industry, government and development partners to drive innovation, value addition and sustainable economic growth.

Busitema University has taken a significant step towards expanding its postgraduate training and research portfolio following an assessment visit by officials from the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) under the KfW German Scholarship Programme.

The visit, held on June 15, 2026, at the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, was conducted as part of the evaluation process for the University's proposed Master of Science in Materials Engineering and Master of Science in Industrial Mathematics programmes. The programmes were submitted in response to the IUCEA-KfW scholarship grant call aimed at strengthening postgraduate education and research capacity across East Africa.

If approved, the programmes will position Busitema University among the regional institutions contributing to the development of highly skilled professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), while expanding opportunities for postgraduate training, research, and innovation.

Welcoming the IUCEA delegation, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Saphiina Biira, highlighted the University's commitment to academic excellence, research-driven development, and internationalisation. She noted that Busitema University continues to invest in programmes and partnerships that enhance access to quality education and create opportunities for students from Uganda and beyond.

Prof. Biira also underscored the University's commitment to supporting students through scholarship opportunities, revealing that several international students currently benefit from institutional support.

“Currently, scholarship support is mainly available for undergraduate students, but we are working towards extending similar opportunities to postgraduate students,” she said.

Presenting the academic and strategic justification for the proposed programmes, the Director of Graduate Studies, Research and Innovation, Prof. Samson Rwahwire, explained that the initiative aligns with national and regional priorities aimed at accelerating industrialisation, innovation, and sustainable development.

He noted that the Master of Science in Materials Engineering programme will strengthen expertise in materials processing and value addition, particularly in sectors linked to Uganda's growing mineral resources. Likewise, the Master of Science in Industrial Mathematics programme is expected to produce graduates capable of applying advanced mathematical modelling and data-driven solutions to complex industrial and societal challenges.

According to Prof. Rwahwire, the programmes will contribute to reducing dependence on external expertise while strengthening the region's capacity to transform locally available resources into higher-value products.

He further highlighted Busitema University's growing reputation for research excellence, innovation, and practical problem-solving, noting that the institution continues to invest in modern laboratories, multidisciplinary research infrastructure, and partnerships that support knowledge generation and technology development.

Leading the IUCEA delegation, Mr. Moses Asasiira commended Busitema University for its contribution to science, technology, and innovation, as well as its commitment to advancing higher education beyond major urban centres.

He noted that the IUCEA-KfW scholarship programme seeks to strengthen regional integration through postgraduate education by supporting quality academic programmes that address East Africa's development priorities. The initiative is also designed to promote equitable access to higher education through scholarship opportunities for both male and female students, while providing inclusion for vulnerable groups, including refugees.

“East Africa is one region, and strengthening collaboration among our universities is key to advancing academic excellence and regional development,” Mr. Asasiira said.

During the visit, the IUCEA team interacted with University Management and staff from various departments and received presentations highlighting the institution's academic systems, student support services, research management structures, digital infrastructure, financial systems, and gender-responsive policies.

The delegation also toured laboratories, workshops, and the University library at the Faculty of Engineering and Technology to assess the facilities that would support delivery of the proposed programmes.

The assessment visit represents an important milestone in Busitema University's efforts to expand postgraduate education and strengthen its role as a centre of excellence in science, technology, and innovation. It also reflects the University's growing contribution to regional capacity building and its commitment to producing graduates equipped to address emerging development challenges.

As discussions with IUCEA continue, the University remains optimistic that the proposed programmes will open new opportunities for advanced training, research collaboration, and scholarship support, further enhancing Busitema University's impact on Uganda and the East African region.

To strengthen leadership and management capacity across the institution, Busitema University convened a leadership training workshop at the Mbale Clinical Research Institute (MCRI) under the theme, “Harnessing Innovation, Change and Team Culture in Leadership for Excellence.” The training, held on June 12, brought together university leaders and staff for a day of reflection, learning, and knowledge sharing on effective
leadership practices in a rapidly changing environment. 

The workshop, organized by the University Management, marked the second leadership engagement of its kind, following a similar session held last year. It focused on equipping participants with practical leadership skills, fostering innovation, and enhancing teamwork to drive institutional excellence.

Opening the workshop, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, Prof. Fadhiru Pakoyo Kamba, underscored the importance of continuous learning in leadership. He noted that while talent is valuable, a willingness to learn and adapt often plays a greater role in effective service delivery.

“Leadership, governance, and management practices are essential in both the public and private sectors,” Prof. Pakayo said, encouraging participants to embrace opportunities for personal and professional growth.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Paul Waako, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of leadership development in building resilient and solution-oriented institutions. He noted that such engagements help nurture transformative leaders who are capable of identifying challenges and developing innovative solutions.

Prof. Waako also paid tribute to the workshop’s chief facilitator, Prof. Wasswa Balunywa, describing him as a long-time mentor and respected academic whose contributions to higher education and entrepreneurship have inspired many. He challenged participants to think beyond conventional approaches and make effective use of available resources to advance the University’s mission.

Drawing from practical examples within the University, the Vice Chancellor observed that impactful leadership often begins with personal initiative and a commitment to institutional development. He cited the construction of the gate at Nagongera Campus as an example of proactive leadership, noting that the project was undertaken through the initiative of the Faculty Dean despite not being included in the University work plan.

The Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Prof. Dan Kibuule, who hosted the training, welcomed participants and introduced Prof. Balunywa. He highlighted the facilitator’s distinguished academic and professional achievements, including his contributions to entrepreneurship education, leadership development, and service on several corporate and institutional boards.

Delivering the keynote sessions, Prof. Balunywa explored the themes of responsibility, ownership, innovation, and organizational culture. He emphasized that effective leadership is built on strong communication, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose.

Comparing organizations to successful football teams, he explained that every member has a role to play in achieving institutional goals. Leaders, he noted, must inspire others, communicate effectively, think differently, and foster innovation.

He further encouraged participants to cultivate emotional intelligence and take ownership of their responsibilities, stressing that leadership is not defined by position alone but by the ability to influence positive change and motivate others toward a common goal.

A significant part of the training focused on leading change in an era shaped by rapid technological advancement. Speaking on innovation and transformation, Prof. Balunywa challenged participants to embrace emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), and adapt to new ways of working.

Quoting the familiar saying, “If you cannot change, change will change you,” he urged leaders to remain open to new ideas and innovations. He also highlighted the growing importance of digital platforms such as podcasts for knowledge sharing and professional engagement, drawing from his own experience of producing more than 1,000 podcast episodes.

Prof. Balunywa encouraged leaders to champion change in products, services, processes, and people while creating organizational structures that support innovation and continuous improvement. He emphasized that institutions must remain responsive to technological developments if they are to remain relevant and competitive.

Another session examined workplace dynamics and interpersonal relationships within organizations. Participants discussed the impact of organizational culture, personality differences, and professional conduct on institutional performance. Prof. Balunywa encouraged leaders to foster healthy work environments built on trust, respect, collaboration, and accountability.

Drawing lessons from global success stories, he cited the example of Toyota’s rise through continuous improvement and benchmarking. He noted that institutions can achieve excellence by learning from best practices elsewhere, adapting innovations to their own context, and consistently seeking opportunities for improvement.

The training also featured a presentation by Dr. Godliver Owomugisha, Head of the Artificial Intelligence Department, who introduced participants to AI tools that can support management, research, teaching, and administrative tasks.

Dr. Owomugisha demonstrated how emerging technologies are simplifying processes such as meeting management, information organization, research, data analysis, and content summarization. She emphasized that AI is intended to complement rather than replace human effort and highlighted plans to strengthen AI literacy through dedicated training and learning modules.

Drawing on her academic experience abroad, she noted that technology continues to transform how teaching, learning, and professional interactions take place. She also highlighted the role of tools such as QR codes in streamlining communication and administrative processes.

At the same time, Dr. Owomugisha acknowledged existing challenges associated with AI, including bias in African language representation and the potential for misinformation. Her presentation sparked lively discussions among participants on the ethical and practical implications of AI in higher education, including concerns about authenticity in administrative work and student assessment.

In response to participants’ questions, she emphasized the need for continuous learning and indicated that additional sessions would be organized to address specific AI-related concerns and applications in greater detail.

The workshop concluded with reflections from participants and closing remarks delivered by Dr. Fulgensia Mbabazi, Deputy Director of the Directorate of Graduate Studies, Research and Innovation, and Prof. Pakoyo on behalf of the University leadership. They reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to continuous staff development and leadership excellence.

As climate change continues to reshape agricultural production across Uganda and many parts of sub-Saharan Africa, the need for innovative farming solutions has never been greater. Rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, prolonged dry spells, and increasing pressure on natural resources are creating significant challenges for farmers, particularly those involved in horticultural production. Tomatoes, one of the most widely grown and economically important vegetable crops in Uganda, are especially vulnerable to fluctuations in temperature, humidity, and water availability. Recognizing these challenges, a team of researchers from Busitema University has developed and evaluated an innovative solar-powered smart Semi-transparent Cadmium Telluride (ST-CdTe) greenhouse designed to create optimal growing conditions for tomato production while reducing energy and water demands.

The research, led by Shaffic Ssenyimba together with Samson Rwahwire, Nibikora Ildephonse, Joseph Ddumba Lwanyaga, Peter Tumutegyereize, and Wilson Babu Musinguzi, investigated the performance of a Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) photovoltaic-integrated greenhouse under Ugandan conditions. The study sought to address a growing challenge in controlled-environment agriculture (CEA): how to maintain suitable greenhouse temperatures and airflow while minimizing energy consumption and ensuring sustainable operation. 

Greenhouse cultivation has become increasingly important as farmers seek ways to protect crops from adverse weather conditions and improve productivity. Traditional greenhouses allow growers to regulate environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and irrigation, enabling year-round production and reducing the risks associated with climate variability. However, these systems often require significant amounts of energy to operate ventilation, cooling, heating, and irrigation equipment. In many developing countries, access to affordable and reliable energy remains a challenge, limiting the adoption of greenhouse technologies among farmers.

To overcome this limitation, the Busitema University research team explored the integration of semi-transparent Cadmium Telluride photovoltaic panels into greenhouse structures. Unlike conventional solar panels that completely block sunlight, these specialized photovoltaic modules generate electricity while still allowing sufficient light (Photosynthetically active radiation) to pass through for crop growth. This dual-purpose approach enables the greenhouse to function both as a food production facility and a renewable energy generation system.

The greenhouse prototype was designed, fabricated, and installed at Busitema University in Busia District, an area characterized by abundant solar radiation and climatic conditions representative of many agricultural regions in Uganda. The structure is a gable greenhouse measuring 3.6 metres in length, 2.25 metres in width, 2 metres in height, and a roof pitch of 20°. The design incorporated photovoltaic roof glazing, side-wall polycarbonate panels, automated ventilation, irrigation, humidification, and pneumatic systems, environmental monitoring equipment, system controls and IoT components.  The researchers aimed to develop an ST-CdTe integrated greenhouse technology for tomato production by conducting a spatio-temporal sun path and energy optimization analysis, designing and numerically evaluating the natural, mechanical, and hybrid ventilation systems, fabricating and commissioning a functional CdTe greenhouse prototype, and investigating how different CdTe transmittance levels affect microclimate, thermal behavior, energy generation, and cooling demand. They also assessed the physiological response and agronomic yield of two tomato varieties (Money maker and Tengeru) under varying transmittance conditions to establish the optimal balance between light transmission and energy generation.

To evaluate the greenhouse performance, the research team employed Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), a sophisticated engineering simulation technique used to model airflow, heat transfer, and environmental conditions within enclosed spaces. CFD has become an increasingly valuable tool in engineering because it allows researchers to assess system performance under different operating conditions before large-scale implementation. Through these simulations, the team examined three distinct ventilation approaches: natural ventilation, mechanical ventilation, and hybrid ventilation.

Natural ventilation relied on strategically positioned roof and side vents that allowed air to circulate through the greenhouse using wind and buoyancy effects. Mechanical ventilation used electrically powered fans to force air movement through the structure. The hybrid system combined both approaches, utilizing natural airflow pathways while supplementing them with controlled mechanical ventilation to improve environmental regulation.

The researchers developed a three-dimensional simulation model using SolidWorks Flow Simulation and then validated the model through experimental testing using the physical greenhouse prototype. This validation process was particularly important because it ensured that the simulated results accurately reflected real-world conditions. The comparison between simulated and measured temperatures demonstrated strong agreement, confirming the reliability of the computational model and providing confidence in the findings.

The study revealed notable differences in performance among the three ventilation strategies. While natural ventilation provided an energy-efficient means of air exchange, its effectiveness depended heavily on external weather conditions and wind patterns. Mechanical ventilation offered greater control over airflow but required additional electrical energy to operate. The hybrid system emerged as the most effective solution, combining the advantages of both approaches while minimizing their individual limitations.

According to the findings, the hybrid ventilation configuration-maintained greenhouse temperatures within the optimal range of 21°C to 27°C required for tomato production. This temperature range is particularly important because excessive heat can negatively affect pollination, fruit development, and overall crop performance. The hybrid system also promoted more uniform airflow distribution throughout the greenhouse, reducing temperature variations and creating a more stable growing environment for the plants.

Beyond ventilation performance, the research examined the greenhouse's water and energy requirements. The team designed a precision irrigation system tailored to the needs of tomato plants grown under controlled conditions. Based on crop water demand calculations and greenhouse dimensions, the study estimated that approximately 44 litres of water per day would be required to support 24 tomato plants. To maximize water-use efficiency, the system employed pulse irrigation cycles that delivered water in smaller, controlled quantities throughout the day rather than through a single large application.

The researchers also assessed the greenhouse's heating requirements under different environmental conditions. Their analysis showed that stable tomato production could be maintained using a heating capacity of approximately 0.5 kilowatts. This relatively modest energy requirement demonstrates the effectiveness of the greenhouse design in maintaining favorable growing conditions while limiting energy consumption.

An important aspect of the study was the integration of renewable energy generation into the greenhouse structure itself. The CdTe photovoltaic panels contributed to the greenhouse's electrical energy needs by generating power from sunlight while simultaneously serving as part of the greenhouse envelope. The researchers further evaluated the solar energy system requirements needed to support environmental control equipment, including ventilation fans, irrigation systems, humidifiers, and monitoring devices. Their findings indicate that photovoltaic-integrated greenhouse systems have significant potential to support energy-efficient agricultural production in regions with strong solar resources.

The researchers also analyzed two CdTe transmittance levels (60% and 70%) as roof glazing with clear polycarbonate as a control treatment. Their findings were striking. The 60% CdTe roof kept the greenhouse more than 4℃ cooler than the polycarbonate control on average and reduced the peak cooling energy demand by nearly 69%. They generated enough electricity of 1.8 kWh/day, as a daily mean surplus to what the greenhouse needed for operation, leaving a net energy surplus of almost 89% above consumption. It also kept the vapor pressure deficit (VPD) inside the greenhouse within the recommended threshold for tomato production, which was nearly 39% lower than the control treatment. This study demonstrates, for the first time in a field-validated equatorial setting, that it is technically possible to harness the solar intensity to generate clean electricity and protect crops at the same time using the same roof. A greenhouse that pays its own energy bills while keeping its plants cooler is not a marginal improvement. It is a structural solution to the food-energy crisis that defines smallholder agriculture in the tropics. If this technology is adopted at scale and supported by appropriate policy incentives, CdTe-integrated greenhouse technology could help close the productivity gap. 

The significance of this research extends beyond the greenhouse prototype developed at Busitema University. As Uganda and many other countries continue to pursue strategies for enhancing food security and climate resilience, controlled-environment agriculture is increasingly being viewed as a promising approach for sustaining crop production under changing climatic conditions. The ability to combine renewable energy generation with precision environmental control offers opportunities to reduce operational costs, improve resource efficiency, and strengthen agricultural productivity.

The study contributes to a growing body of knowledge on sustainable agricultural technologies and demonstrates how engineering innovation can be applied to address practical challenges facing farmers. By integrating solar energy generation, advanced ventilation strategies, efficient irrigation systems, and computational modelling techniques, the research provides valuable insights into the design and operation of next-generation greenhouse systems suitable for tropical and semi-arid environments.

The findings also highlight the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in solving complex development challenges. Bringing together expertise from chemical and process engineering, industrial engineering, water resources engineering, and renewable energy systems, the research exemplifies how diverse scientific disciplines can work together to develop solutions that support sustainable development goals.

As efforts continue to strengthen agricultural productivity and climate adaptation across Africa, innovations such as the photovoltaic-integrated greenhouse developed by Busitema University researchers demonstrate the potential of locally driven research to generate practical, scalable solutions. Through continued investigation, refinement, and field implementation, such technologies may play an increasingly important role in supporting sustainable food production and resilient agricultural systems for future generations.

To watch the interview, click here

DiNAO staff bidding farewell to one of JOOUST’s international visitor Dr. Annet Kyomuhangi, a visiting scholar under the IUCEA Staff mobility program. Dr. Annet, a pure mathematician specialising in Algebra and Geometry was hosted by the School of Biological, Physical, Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences for four months from February 2026 to May 2026. Dr. Annet is a senior lecturer in the department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science and Education at Busitema University in Uganda. This year 2026, JOOUST received three visiting scholars under the IUCEA Staff Mobility program, two were hosted by the School of Biological, Physical, Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences and one was hosted by the School of Business and Economics. JOOUST sent out one scholar on the same program to the Eastern Statistical Training Centre, United Republic of Tanzania, Dar es Salaam.

The Directorate of Information and Communication Technology Services (DICTS) at Busitema University has successfully implemented a modern, sustainable power backup system to ensure uninterrupted operation of the university’s server infrastructure.

This new power solution integrates solar energy, lithium battery storage, and grid (hydro) electricity into a seamless and intelligent system designed to guarantee reliability, efficiency, and resilience.

How the System Works

The setup consists of 38 solar panels that harness clean energy during the day. This solar power directly supports the server room operations while simultaneously charging a high-capacity lithium battery system.

At night, the system automatically switches to grid (hydro) power as the primary source of electricity. In the event of a grid power outage, the lithium battery—charged during the day—instantly takes over, ensuring continuous power supply to critical systems.

All transitions between power sources are managed by a smart inverter, which enables automatic, seamless switching without any interruption to services.

Key Benefits

• Uninterrupted Services: Ensures continuous availability of university digital systems and services.
• Energy Efficiency: Maximizes the use of solar energy, reducing dependence on grid power.
• Sustainability: Promotes green energy adoption and reduces the university’s carbon footprint.
• Reliability: Provides a robust backup mechanism in case of power outages.
• Automation: Eliminates manual intervention through intelligent power switching.

Supporting the University’s Digital Mission

This initiative reflects DICTS’ commitment to strengthening the university’s ICT infrastructure and supporting teaching, learning, research, and administrative functions through reliable technology services.

By adopting this hybrid power solution, Busitema University continues to demonstrate leadership in leveraging innovative and sustainable technologies to enhance institutional efficiency and service delivery.

In an effort to ensure a smooth transition into university life, first-year students at various campuses received a comprehensive orientation on University systems. The orientation, held on between 7th of September to 15 of September 2023, provided newcomers with valuable insights into the array of systems and resources available to them throughout their academic journey.

The orientation covered a wide range of essential topics, including:

• The Admission System
• Students Portal System
• Varous websites including the main University Site
• Introduction to eduroam internet

Among others

The orientation sessions were led by experienced faculty and staff members who were available to answer questions and provide guidance. Attendees were also given access to online resources and handouts for future reference.

Busitema Universoty, Directorate of ICT remains committed to supporting the success of its students and believes that a strong understanding of campus systems is crucial for a successful academic journey. This comprehensive orientation serves as a crucial first step in helping first-year students make the most of their university experience

To register for institutional mail, please fill in the following forms. Forms are to be filled according to respective faculties. Click here to access forms

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