By Timothy Okurut
Uganda Christian University (UCU) will host its second annual Research Symposium from November 4 to 6, bringing together researchers and practitioners to explore solutions to societal challenges through research, innovation and collaboration.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the symposium, the Director of Research, Partnerships and Innovations (DRPI), Prof. Elizabeth Kizito Balyejusa, said the event reflects the university’s commitment to extending its role beyond teaching to generating knowledge that contributes to national development.
“The calling of a modern university is higher. We need to be relevant to our nations and communities, hence the importance of research,” she said.
Prof. Balyejusa said the symposium will provide a platform for researchers to share discoveries, engage with the public and receive feedback on their work.
She noted that research should not remain within academic institutions but should inform policy, strengthen partnerships and contribute to solving challenges affecting communities.
The symposium, themed “Research, Innovation, Engagement and Pedagogy,” will feature researchers from UCU and other institutions, including international participants.
Dr. Godwin Owino, Head of Graduate Publications in the Directorate of Postgraduate Studies, said the event will provide a forum for dialogue between researchers and practitioners on emerging issues affecting Uganda and the wider African region.
He said the symposium seeks to address the gap between the continent’s abundant resources and the challenges of poverty, unemployment, drought, food insecurity and other development concerns.
“Given that we have a lot of resources, what can we do to translate this to livelihoods? Research will help us unravel the solutions,” he said.
Dr. Owino said the symposium will focus on five thematic areas, namely: health and well-being; business, trade, law and economic development; food, water and energy value chains; technology, innovation and sustainable development; and faith and community.
He cited research on adolescent mental health, renewable energy and Christian faith-based approaches to tax compliance as examples of studies addressing practical community challenges.
The symposium will feature approximately 40 research presentations and 40 poster presentations, providing participants with opportunities to engage with different areas of scholarship.
Prof. Balyejusa said the symposium will also encourage researchers to move beyond disciplinary silos and adopt holistic approaches to addressing societal problems.
She explained that challenges such as food insecurity, water shortages and mental health are interconnected and require collaboration across disciplines.
The symposium will take place at Nkoyoyo Hall, UCU’s Main Campus in Mukono, starting at 8:00am daily.
Organisers have invited researchers, practitioners, students and members of the public to participate in the discussions.ference ahead of the symposium, the Director of Research, Partnerships and Innovations (DRPI), Prof. Elizabeth Kizito Balyejusa, said the event reflects the university’s commitment to extending its role beyond teaching to generating knowledge that contributes to national development.“The calling of a modern university is higher. We need to be relevant to our nations and communities, hence the importance of research,” she said.Prof. Balyejusa said the symposium will provide a platform for researchers to share discoveries, engage with the public and receive feedback on their work.She noted that research should not remain within academic institutions but should inform policy, strengthen partnerships and contribute to solving challenges affecting communities.The symposium, themed “Research, Innovation, Engagement and Pedagogy,” will feature researchers from UCU and other institutions, including international participants.Dr. Godwin Owino, Head of Graduate Publications in the Directorate of Postgraduate Studies, said the event will provide a forum for dialogue between researchers and practitioners on emerging issues affecting Uganda and the wider African region.He said the symposium seeks to address the gap between the continent’s abundant resources and the challenges of poverty, unemployment, drought, food insecurity and other development concerns.“Given that we have a lot of resources, what can we do to translate this to livelihoods? Research will help us unravel the solutions,” he said.Dr. Owino said the symposium will focus on five thematic areas, namely: health and well-being; business, trade, law and economic development; food, water and energy value chains; technology, innovation and sustainable development; and faith and community.He cited research on adolescent mental health, renewable energy and Christian faith-based approaches to tax compliance as examples of studies addressing practical community challenges.The symposium will feature approximately 40 research presentations and 40 poster presentations, providing participants with opportunities to engage with different areas of scholarship.Prof. Balyejusa said the symposium will also encourage researchers to move beyond disciplinary silos and adopt holistic approaches to addressing societal problems.She explained that challenges such as food insecurity, water shortages and mental health are interconnected and require collaboration across disciplines.The symposium will take place at Nkoyoyo Hall, UCU’s Main Campus in Mukono, starting at 8:00am daily.Organisers have invited researchers, practitioners, students and members of the public to participate in the discussions.
