The minister of science, technology and innovation applauds research at MUST - Mbarara University of Science and Technology
On Wednesday 15th July, 2026. Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) recently played host to the newly appointed Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Hon. Eng. Jonard Asiimwe Akiiki, during his high-profile familiarization visit to the university’s campuses. Prof. Joseph Ngonzi leads the minister The ministerial visit underscored a collective […]
On Wednesday 15thJuly, 2026. Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) recently played host to the newly appointed Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Hon. Eng. Jonard Asiimwe Akiiki, during his high-profile familiarization visit to the university’s campuses. Prof. Joseph Ngonzi leads the ministerThe ministerial visit underscored a collective national drive to transition academic research into marketable enterprises capable of addressing Uganda’s pressing economic and social needs. A high-impact tour of breakthrough InnovationsThe day commenced at the City Campus, where Hon. Eng. Jonard Asiimwe Akiiki embarked on an extensive tour of MUST’s physical infrastructure and cutting-edge research facilities. The delegation was led by the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Joseph Ngonzi. Hon. Asiimwe received by Prof. Joel Bazira (PI ) in the Genomics and Biotechnology laboratoriesQ&A from the Minister and the STI teamThe minister inspected key installations, including the Genomics and Biotechnology Laboratories fully supported by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) and the MUST Pharm-Biotechnology Laboratory. These facilities stand at the forefront of genetic research and indigenous medicine formulation, showcasing the university’s capacity to drive bio-economic solutions. Following the laboratory tours, the Minister inspected the ongoing construction site of the College of Health Sciences. He evaluated how this modern infrastructure will bolster health education, clinical research, and collaborative innovation. Dr. Hilda Ikirize explains the processes of the genetic research and indigenous medicine formulation in the MUST Pharm-Biotechnology Laboratory. L-R: Dr. Cosmas Mwikirizefrom the ministry, Prof. Joel Bazira microbiologist and the H. E Conrad TwinomugishaHon. Eng. Akiiki commended the university leadership for their resourcefulness, praising their ability to deliver high-impact developments and maintain steady progress using available resources. Driven by the Spirit of “Succeed We MUST”. Reflecting on the university’s achievements and the strategic focus of his ministry, the Minister noted that true innovation lies in turning classroom knowledge into commercial products that create wealth and jobs for Ugandans. Hon. Eng. Jonard Asiimwe Akiiki at the site of the College of Health SciencesThe visit highlighted a shared commitment between the ministry and the university to foster an ecosystem where scientists are also entrepreneurs. Driven by resilience and an unwavering commitment to national development, the university administration re-echoed its foundational promise to the nation: despite any limitations in resources, to transform Uganda’s socio-economic landscape,Succeed we MUST!Author