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Busitema University’s newly installed Chancellor, Eng. Dr. Badru Kiggundu, has concluded a comprehensive five-day familiarization tour of the University’s multi-campus system, gaining invaluable first-hand insight into the institution's academic heartbeat, pioneering projects, and future aspirations. The tour, which ran from 1st to 5th February 2026, marked the Chancellor's first in-depth engagement with the University community since his installation during the 16th Graduation Ceremony in November 2025. Organized by the Office of the University Secretary and accompanied by key members of the University Management team, the visit underscores the leadership's commitment to unity, progress, and stakeholder engagement.
Eng. Dr. Kiggundu traversed the University, visiting all its constituent campuses, where he was warmly received at the Faculties of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, Management Sciences, Agriculture and Animal Sciences, Health Sciences, Engineering and Technology, as well as Science and Education. While students were not on campus at the time during the start of the semester having been adjusted to 10th February in accordance with a government directive ahead of the 2026 Presidential Elections, the tour provided a vital opportunity for deep engagement with the academic and administrative staff who form the university's backbone. At each campus, the programme skillfully coordinated by the respective Faculty Deans, offered a comprehensive look into university life through staff assemblies that brought together faculty and staff in conference halls for collective briefings, the singing of the National and University anthems, detailed presentations by Deans highlighting faculty-specific achievements, and guided tours of key facilities, laboratories, and project sites, offering a tangible view of the University’s physical and intellectual resources. The formal sessions were addressed by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Paul Waako; the Chairperson of the University Council, Professor William Bazeyo; and the Chancellor himself.
In his overview at each stop, Vice Chancellor Prof. Paul Waako painted a compelling picture of the University's trajectory, highlighting significant institutional milestones including robust growth in infrastructure, the expansion of local and international partnerships, and notable improvements in staffing levels. A key focus of his presentation was the advancement of several flagship projects that exemplify Busitema’s commitment to problem-solving research and innovation, such as TASCOV at the Faculty of Health Sciences, the Black Soldier Fly initiative at the Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Sciences showcasing sustainable agriculture, and Agricultural Mechanization Innovations at the Faculty of Engineering and Technology demonstrating practical solutions for the community. Faculty Deans provided further depth, detailing the unique contributions and progress within their specific areas, reinforcing the University's strength in specialized fields.
Addressing the gathered staff, University Council Chairperson Prof. William Bazeyo delivered a powerful message on the importance of translating academic work into tangible developmental impact, stressing that the University's investments must yield visible benefits for the community and the nation. He noted that the Council is actively lobbying for increased government funding, but that their strongest argument is demonstrable commitment, efficiency, and tangible results from project leaders. He urged all staff entrusted with institutional responsibilities to uphold the highest standards of performance and service delivery, making it clear that the University is committed to a culture of excellence and accountability.
In his remarks, Chancellor Eng. Dr. Badru Kiggundu expressed profound appreciation for the dedication and quality of work he witnessed, and was particularly impressed by the innovative spirit on display, observing that Busitema University possesses immense potential to not only compete favorably at the national level but, through sustained innovation and collaboration, to emerge among the top-ranked universities in Uganda. Throughout the tour, the Chancellor fostered an atmosphere of open dialogue and encouraged staff to see him as a partner in the University’s journey, describing himself as approachable and genuinely interested in their ideas. He remarked that he was there to listen and to learn, and that his door is always open to constructive ideas and suggestions from every member of staff as they work together to strengthen Busitema University's academic and research profile and elevate its standing on the national and international stage. The successful conclusion of this familiarization tour marks the beginning of a collaborative and dynamic new chapter for Busitema University, with its leadership now more closely connected to the people and projects that define its unique character.
The 2025 study visit to Uganda brought together METODIC project partners for a vibrant four-day program filled with training, field visits, and insightful discussions. From academic workshops to hands-on industry experiences, the visit offered a rich look into how universities and textile enterprises in Uganda are shaping the future of sustainable innovation.
The visit opened with a training session led by Prof. George from the University of West Attica, who shared inspiring examples of how universities and businesses can work together to drive innovation. His presentation also offered a clear walkthrough of the METODIC work packages, helping partners reconnect their institutional priorities with the project’s wider goals.
A dedicated session on strengthening academia–industry collaboration followed, guided by experts from IDEC SA. Partners explored how universities can establish and sustain collaboration offices, the kinds of services these offices can provide, and how they can create mutually beneficial partnerships with industry. Each institution presented its own ideas, challenges, and opportunities, leading to an open, practical exchange of experiences tailored to the Sub-Saharan African context.
In the afternoon, the 3rd Project Meeting was held to review progress under work packages T3.2 and T4.3, followed by a relaxed dinner at Forest Cottages in Bukoto.
Sustainability in Focus: Green Textile Practices
The second day turned attention to the textile industry’s sustainability challenges. IDEC SA facilitated interactive discussions that brought together academic staff and industry practitioners. Mixed working groups tackled topics such as:
- Integrating sustainability into textile education
- Encouraging workers to adopt environmentally responsible behaviors
- Building a workplace culture that supports green transitions
-
Bridging gaps between academic training and industry needs
Participants engage in group work during the training session.
The conversations revealed how both sectors can work together to accelerate sustainable transformation. In the afternoon, partners held consultations on improving mobility schemes for staff and students under T4.3. The day later wound down with an informal sightseeing tour around Kampala.
Learning from Practice: Visits to TEXFAD and Fine Spinners
The third day was dedicated to field visits, beginning with a tour of TEXFAD Ltd, a company known for its pioneering work with banana fiber. Partners followed the production process from the preparation of raw banana pseudostems to finished products. Discussions highlighted the enormous potential of agro-waste as a source of sustainable textile materials and how Uganda is positioning itself as a leader in natural fiber innovation.
The group then proceeded to Fine Spinners in Bugolobi, one of East Africa’s most advanced textile factories. Here, partners observed large-scale spinning, knitting, dyeing, and finishing operations, all run under strict international standards. Engineers and technicians guided the tour, sharing insights on production processes, sustainability practices, and the company’s export-focused strategies.
The day concluded in high spirits with cultural performances and dinner at the Ndere Cultural Centre.
Research and Capacity Building: UIRI and Busitema University
The final day blended research exposure with academic engagement. Before heading to Busitema University, the team visited the Uganda Industrial Research Institute (UIRI), where they were introduced to ongoing work on fiber incubation, alternative plant-based fibers, and new technologies for textile material development. The visit broadened the consortium’s view of Uganda’s growing textile research landscape and opened doors for potential collaboration.
A member of the IDEC SA team makes a presentation at Busitema University
At Busitema University, the delegation received a warm welcome from the administration. Discussions explored opportunities for deeper cooperation through the METODIC project, including student training, upgrading laboratories, and strengthening innovation hubs. IDEC SA led another training session on establishing collaboration offices (T3.2), followed by a consultation round on mobility schemes (T4.3) after lunch.
A Visit Marked by Learning, Partnership, and New Possibilities
The four days in Uganda offered much more than meetings; they provided shared experiences, strengthened partnerships, and a clearer vision of how academia and industry can work together to support sustainable textile innovation. The insights gained from both institutions and industry players are set to play an important role in shaping the next phases of the METODIC project.
Busitema University participated in a two-day regional workshop hosted by Kyambogo University under the METODIC Project, an international initiative aimed at strengthening collaboration between academia and the textile industry to promote a sustainable and circular textile sector in Sub-Saharan Africa. The workshop, held on 1st and 2nd December 2025, brought together partners from universities and industry institutions across East Africa and Europe.
The Busitema University delegation was led by Dr. Edwin Kamalha, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Polymer, Textile and Industrial Engineering and the Principal Investigator for the METODIC Project at Busitema. He was accompanied by: Mr. Godias Tumusiime, Ms. Peace Karungi Balala, Mr. Isaac Naleebi and Mr. Allen Amati
The team actively contributed to discussions on curriculum development, industry collaboration, student capacity-building, and upcoming project deliverables.
The workshop convened delegates from a wide range of institutions, including: Uganda: Busitema University, Kyambogo University; Kenya: Moi University, Technical University of Kenya, Ethiopia: Jimma University, Mekelle University; Greece: University of West Attica and IDEC SA; and Belgium: Ghent University. This diversity of expertise provided a rich platform for cross-learning and strengthening inter-university cooperation in sustainable textile innovation.
Busitema University on Friday, 28 November, held its 16th Graduation Ceremony at the Main Campus Gymnasium, where more than 9,000 students were awarded degrees and diplomas across various disciplines. The event also marked a major milestone as the University installed Eng. Dr. Badru M. Kiggundu as its 3rd Chancellor and celebrated the graduation of its first PhD candidates.
In remarks during the ceremony, the Chairperson of the University Council, Prof. William Bazeyo, commended outgoing Chancellor Prof. Vinand Nantulya for his service and highlighted key priorities for the incoming Chancellor, including infrastructure development, staffing, and strengthening science and research innovation funding.
Prof. Nantulya, who has served as Chancellor since 2018, expressed gratitude to the university community and partners who have supported Busitema’s growth during his tenure. “I acknowledge the tremendous collaboration from Government, Council, Senate, Staff, Students, and all stakeholders,” he said.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Paul Waako also thanked stakeholders and recognized the presence of executive guests, including ministers, CEOs, local government leaders, and representatives from financial institutions.
Presiding as Chief Guest on behalf of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Minister of Defense and Foreign Affairs Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth delivered the President’s written message. The President commended Busitema University for its role in community development through programs such as irrigation, agricultural mechanization, and textiles. He urged graduates to embrace skills-based careers, emphasizing that “youth are the future” and that attitudes toward work must change.
The university’s first PhD graduates, Ms. Mercy Wanyana (PhD in Business Administration and Management) and Dr. James Menya (PhD in Materials Engineering), were specially recognized during the ceremony.
After reciting the oath of office, the newly installed Chancellor Eng. Dr. Kiggundu reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the university’s innovation-driven agenda. “We are shaping problem solvers, innovators, and leaders who drive our vision forward,” he said, adding that he aims to serve with openness and approachability.
The ceremony concluded with the awarding of certificates, diplomas, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, bringing Busitema University’s alumni network to more than 16,000.
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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
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