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On 5 May 2026, Busitema University hosted a high-level delegation from the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education and the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development of Zimbabwe for a benchmarking visit on the Higher Education Access Programme (HEAP).

The delegation, led by the Permanent Secretary in Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Prof. Fanuel Tagwira, visited the university’s main campus to learn from Uganda’s experience in implementing HEAP, an initiative aimed at expanding access to university education for disadvantaged learners. The Zimbabwean team was accompanied by officials from FAWE Africa, FAWE Uganda, Uganda’s Ministry of Education and Sports, the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE), and the Vice Chancellor of Soroti University, Prof. John Robert Ikoja-Odongo.

Welcoming the delegation, the Vice Chancellor of Busitema University, Prof. Paul Waako, thanked the visitors for selecting Busitema University as part of their benchmarking mission.
“Your presence here today is evidence of the growing collaboration between Uganda and Zimbabwe in advancing higher education on the African continent,” Prof. Waako said.

Prof. Waako highlighted the achievements of HEAP since its introduction at Busitema University in 2019. The programme began with 71 students, 60 of whom were sponsored by FAWE. Through structured academic support, mentorship, and a learner-centred approach, the pioneer cohort successfully transitioned into degree programmes and graduated. Subsequent cohorts have continued to perform competitively alongside students admitted through direct entry, diploma, and mature-age entry schemes.

“To us, HEAP is one of the most significant innovations in higher education because it expands access despite barriers such as regional economic inequalities, the rural-urban divide, unequal distribution of schools and learning materials, and cultural stereotypes,” he noted. According to Prof. Waako, the programme has enabled the university to provide a second chance to students with non-traditional entry qualifications, bridge foundational gaps in STEM subjects, support learners from underrepresented communities, and promote gender equity in science disciplines.

He also commended FAWE for championing educational opportunities for disadvantaged learners and strengthening partnerships among African institutions. Prof. Waako expressed optimism that the collaboration would expand into joint academic programmes, research initiatives, and staff and student exchange programmes aimed at advancing higher education in Africa. He further encouraged African institutions to embrace self-reliance and collaboration in light of lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and global economic disruptions.

Representing the Executive Director of the National Council for Higher Education, Prof. Mary Okwakol, the Assistant Commissioner of NCHE commended Busitema University for pioneering the Higher Education Access Programme among Uganda’s public universities. He thanked the Vice Chancellor for hosting the benchmarking team and noted that Busitema University and the Islamic University in Uganda were among the institutions selected from Eastern Uganda to implement the programme.

He explained that HEAP was established to support students who had not attained the conventional university entry scores, emphasizing that many beneficiaries had since graduated and taken up significant roles in society. Describing HEAP as an innovation in higher education, he said the programme promotes inclusivity and expands access for disadvantaged learners. He also highlighted NCHE’s role in setting standards, monitoring implementation of the HEAP certificate programme, conducting regular institutional assessments, and enforcing compliancemeasures to ensure quality higher education in Uganda.

The representative further applauded the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) for supporting the initiative, noting that its impact extends beyond Uganda to the wider African continent and beyond.

Speaking on behalf of FAWE Uganda, the Executive Director, Ms. Suzan Opok Tumusiime, described HEAP as one of the most transformative innovations in modern higher education because of its contribution to equity, equality, and gender inclusion. She observed that many disadvantaged students had historically faced structural barriers to higher education and noted that the programme seeks to bridge this gap by supporting vulnerable learners, particularly girls and students with disabilities.

Ms. Tumusiime revealed that FAWE currently supports 103 students under the HEAP programme at Busitema University. She also appreciated Prof. Paul Waako for championing the programme among Vice Chancellors in Uganda during his tenure as Chairperson of the Uganda Vice Chancellors’ Forum, noting that his leadership significantly contributed to the programme’s growth and adoption.

The Chief Executive Officer of FAWE Africa, Dr. Martha Muhwezi, said FAWE operates through 34 chapters across Africa and appreciated the Zimbabwean delegation for choosing to study the Ugandan HEAP model. Dr. Muhwezi stressed the importance of sustainability seven years after the programme’s inception and called for increased government ownership.

“HEAP should be institutionalized as a government programme under the Ministry of Education and Sports,” she said, adding that Zimbabwe should be prepared to allocate university slots for the initiative".

She noted that the HEAP journey began at Busitema University in 2019 before expanding to institutions such as Mbarara University of Science and Technology and Soroti University. Dr. Muhwezi reaffirmed FAWE’s commitment to supporting partner institutions and advancing innovative education models across the continent.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education appreciated the warm reception accorded to the delegation and emphasized that Zimbabwe’s focus would be on supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds through a similar programme.

In his remarks, Prof. Fanuel Tagwira expressed gratitude to Busitema University, NCHE, and FAWE for hosting the Zimbabwean delegation and ensuring a productive benchmarking visit. He commended Busitema University for taking a leading role in anchoring HEAP in the region, noting that the initiative had demonstrated success in transforming lives, fostering innovation, and driving economic development.
“We are here because of the success stories,” Prof. Tagwira remarked, emphasizing that education remains the foundation of society and a powerful tool for national transformation.

He explained that the delegation had come to study the implementation of HEAP in Uganda in order to address similar challenges in Zimbabwe, in line with the Zimbabwean President’s vision of “leaving no person and no place behind” through inclusive education. Prof. Tagwira further appreciated the support of Mastercard Foundation and FAWE in implementing the programme and highlighted Zimbabwe’s growing innovation ecosystem, where universities are increasingly filing patents and establishing innovation hubs. He expressed optimism that partnerships with Busitema University would strengthen Zimbabwe’s ambition of becoming a regional Science, Technology, and Innovation hub.

Prof. David Olema, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Education and Coordinator of the HEAP programme at Busitema University, thanked the Zimbabwean delegation for embracing the programme and moving swiftly toward implementation. He revealed that he had previously visited Chinhoyi University of Technology in Zimbabwe, which had shown keen interest in adopting the programme.

Prof. Olema also noted that Soroti University had benchmarked with Busitema University and was reviewing its curriculum to implement the programme. Citing statistics on educational progression in Uganda, he observed that although about 1.8 million pupils enroll in Primary One, only about 100,000 students complete Senior Six. He stressed that HEAP remains critical in reducing school dropout rates by offering learners a second opportunity to access university education.

The benchmarking visit concluded with engagements between the delegation, students, alumni, academic staff, and administrators, as well as tours of laboratories, teaching facilities, and learning spaces at Busitema University.

Guild President Kamara Onesmus Outlines His Vision for a More Responsive and Inclusive Busitema University

Busitema University’s newly elected Guild President, Kamara Onesmus, has begun his term with a clear focus on student welfare, accountability and practical reforms that reflect the needs of the entire student community. Kamara, a third‑year Water Resources Engineering student at the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, was elected as the seventeenth Guild President after a second attempt at the position. His return to the race, he says, was driven by the feedback he received from students and a renewed commitment to serve.

Students who supported him noted that his decision to run again demonstrated resilience and a willingness to listen. Kamara explains that this trust, rather than sympathy, formed the foundation of his successful campaign.

The recent shift to a fully online electoral process presented challenges for candidates, particularly the inability to hold open‑air campaigns or public debates. To reach students effectively, Kamara and his team adopted a door‑to‑door approach, visiting hostels and engaging students directly. He believes that while online voting should remain, the university should consider reinstating open‑air campaigns to give candidates an opportunity to present and defend their ideas in a public setting.

One of the first initiatives his government plans to implement is the Green Climate Initiative. The proposal includes a plastic bottle recycling programme across all campuses and efforts to establish functional green ecosystems at each site. Kamara also hopes to strengthen environmental collaboration between campuses such as Nagongera through structured exchange activities.

Tuition policy remains one of the most pressing concerns for students, and Kamara has placed it at the top of his agenda. He acknowledges that the current 60 percent payment threshold was introduced with good intentions but has had unintended consequences for students facing financial hardship. Under the existing system, students who fail to meet the threshold miss examinations and often lose an entire semester, with previously paid fees not carried forward.

Kamara is advocating for a more flexible approach. He proposes that examination access be linked to the number of course units a student has paid for, allowing them to sit the units covered by their payments. He also supports an alternative model where all students are allowed to sit examinations, with results withheld until outstanding balances are cleared. He believes this approach would protect academic progress while still upholding financial accountability.

During his campaign, Kamara pledged to work toward improved healthcare facilities at campuses such as Nagongera and Arapai. He maintains this commitment but acknowledges that achieving it within his eight‑month term will be challenging. The process requires consultations with the University Doctor, the Vice Chancellor and senior management. He intends to begin these discussions promptly and pursue the goal as far as institutional processes allow.

Kamara has also committed to strengthening accountability within the Guild leadership. Unlike previous Guild governments, which typically held one general assembly at the end of their term, his administration plans to hold two. The first will take place at the midpoint of the term to allow students to raise concerns while there is still time to address them. The second will be held at the end of the term to review progress and report on completed work.

As a member of the University Council, Kamara will represent student interests in key decision‑making spaces. He emphasises the importance of open communication between students and management. When disagreements arise, he expects constructive dialogue and clear explanations so that students understand the reasoning behind institutional decisions.

Kamara describes his leadership style as proactive and collaborative. He believes in delegating responsibilities but remains closely involved to ensure progress. He expects the same level of commitment from his team.

When asked what success would look like at the end of his term, Kamara says it would be reflected in the experience of an individual student who brought a concern to the Guild and saw a meaningful response. He hopes students will feel that their voices were heard and that the Guild worked actively on their behalf.

He concludes with a message to the student body, encouraging them to remain hopeful and engaged. He pledges to advocate, negotiate and serve diligently throughout his term.

Watch the interview here

A team from Busitema University recently took part in the Strengthening Inclusive TVET Teaching for Refugees and Host Communities in Uganda workshop held from 28th–29th April 2026. The workshop, an activity being implemented under the RiTE Project, took place at Uganda Small Scale Industries Association, Lugogo Showgrounds in Kampala, and brought together TVET trainers, instructors, project partners, and refugee education stakeholders from across the country.

Over the two days, participants engaged in open discussions, shared experiences, and explored practical ways of making TVET more inclusive and responsive to the needs of both refugees and host communities. The sessions were interactive and grounded in real classroom and institutional challenges, which made the learning especially relevant.

On the first day, the focus was on inclusive pedagogy and better understanding learners. Edith Bagenda guided participants through sessions on Inclusive Pedagogy for Mixed Classrooms and Competency-Based Teaching Basics, highlighting simple but effective ways to adapt teaching to diverse learning environments. Sebanenya George led conversations on Understanding Refugee Learners in Uganda’s TVET system and Psychosocial Support and Learner Motivation, drawing attention to the importance of supporting learners beyond academics. Ssebuliba Jackson shared insights on Uganda’s local context, including key challenges faced by institutions, and presented case studies that showed how some schools are already responding in practical ways.

The second day shifted more towards current TVET practices and what institutions can do moving forward. Ms. Bagenda returned with sessions on Digital Tools for TVET Trainers and Entrepreneurship and Labour Market Skills for Learners, pointing out the growing need to integrate technology and employability skills into training. Mr. Sebanenya George focused on Communication Skills and Classroom Management as well as Retention, Guidance, and Learner Support Strategies, encouraging trainers to create learning environments where students feel supported and motivated to stay. Mr. Ssebuliba Jackson led discussions on Local Institutional Best Practices and guided participants in thinking through Institutional Inclusion Action Plans, pushing institutions to turn ideas into practical steps.

For the Busitema University team, the workshop was a valuable opportunity to learn, reflect, and exchange ideas with others working in similar spaces. It also reinforced the importance of building a TVET system that is inclusive, practical, and responsive to the realities of all learners.

Ms. Yvonne Tusiimire has marked an important step in her academic journey after successfully defending her PhD at Makerere University. Her research, “3D Electrospun PLLA Nanofibrous Membranes Coated with Regenerated Silk Fibroin and Silver Nitrate for Burn Wounds,” contributes to ongoing efforts to improve materials used in burn care.

The study focused on developing a biomimetic scaffold designed to support better healing outcomes. In the course of her work, she developed and refined a 3D electrospun PLLA membrane coated with regenerated silk fibroin and silver nitrate. She also examined how plasma finishing and biodegradation affect the material, assessed cell viability and cytotoxicity, and evaluated its antibacterial properties. These combined investigations provide useful insight into how such materials may perform in practical medical settings.

Her Viva Voce took place on April 22, 2026, at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, with both in-person and online participation. The session began with detailed feedback from Dr. Edwin Kamalha, who raised key structural and technical points during an hour-long discussion. This was followed by further engagement with a panel of six examiners, who explored different aspects of the study, including methodology and interpretation of results.

Over the course of the four-hour examination, Ms. Tusiimire responded to questions with clarity and composure, demonstrating a solid understanding of her research area.

Her successful defense reflects sustained effort and careful scholarship, and adds to the body of research addressing challenges in wound management through advances in science and engineering.

Busitema University has hosted a three-day regional training aimed at strengthening social innovation and entrepreneurship across East Africa and beyond. The workshop, held from April 22 to 24 at the University’s Faculty of Engineering and Technology Conference Hall, brought together academic teams and development partners under the theme “Advancing Social Innovation & Entrepreneurship through Post Graduate Education in East Africa.” The initiative is part of a broader collaboration supported by the European Union through the Erasmus Programme.

Organized by the university’s Directorate of Quality Assurance, the “Advanced Uganda Workshop 2026” attracted participants from institutions in Bulgaria, Italy, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Lithuania, and Tanzania. A delegation from Lira University also took part.
The visiting teams were received by Vice Chancellor Paul Waako and Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Saphina Biira, who welcomed the engagement as a timely opportunity to build partnerships.The invited institutions included; University of National and World Economy (UNWE), Vilniaus Kolegija, University of Sannio, Mkwawa University College of Education, Mzumbe University, Lira University and Busitema University as well as non-government organizations like SIDO and Tetra who also participated in the workshop.

In his remarks, Prof. Waako highlighted the need to strengthen capacity in entrepreneurship education, noting that such collaborations could help bridge existing gaps. He urged participants to sustain networks formed during the workshop to ensure ideas discussed translate into practical outcomes.

Prof. Biira provided an overview of the university’s growth and outlined plans to submit the programme to the National Council for Higher Education for accreditation. She said the initiative is expected to pave the way for formal partnerships and memoranda of understanding among participating institutions.

According to project coordinator Evgenia Nikulina, the programme will be implemented through existing e-learning systems once approved by regulators. She explained that the European Union will provide funding for one year, support virtual student exchanges, and facilitate online teaching collaborations among partner universities. The project is particularly focused on expanding access for students from rural communities.

Participating institutions included University of National and World Economy, Vilniaus Kolegija, University of Sannio, Mkwawa University College of Education and Mzumbe University, alongside local partners.

During the sessions, facilitators explored topics such as experimental learning, curriculum design, reverse mentoring, quality assurance practices in Europe, and the role of social enterprises. The programme also highlighted practical approaches including simulations and hackathons as tools for problem-solving and innovation.

A team from the University of National and World Economy presented an ecosystem-based model designed to support cross-disciplinary innovation. The model has already been piloted in partnerships with universities in Bulgaria and Colombia, with plans to expand to new regions.

The workshop concluded with the awarding of certificates to participants, issued by the Office of the Academic Registrar, marking the end of an engagement organizers hope will lead to long-term academic collaboration and innovation-driven development.

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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