Kampala, Uganda | The Minister for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and National Guidance, Chris Baryomunsi, has called on Uganda’s universities to play a central role in advancing the country’s digital transformation agenda. Speaking at the 18th graduation ceremony of ISBAT University in Kampala on November 12 , 2025, he urged institutions of higher learning to move beyond teaching computer science towards translating research and innovation into real‑world solutions.
Baryomunsi noted that although Uganda has 68 universities teaching computer science and equipping libraries with computers, there remains a significant gap between academic training and meaningful application. “You cannot say technology is for the Western world… How do we bring these technologies into the health sector in Uganda for our health workers to perform better?” he questioned.
He highlighted that the ICT sector currently employs approximately 1.3 million Ugandans and grows at an annual rate of around 15 per cent, contributing about nine per cent of the country’s GDP. Despite this growth, youth unemployment remains a challenge 42.6 per cent of Ugandans aged 15‑24 are neither working nor in education or training, according to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics.
Emphasising collaboration, the minister said universities must work with government, industry and civil society to address themes such as e‑government, cybersecurity, digital literacy, innovation and entrepreneurship. These partnerships are crucial to ensure that higher education remains relevant in a rapidly evolving global technology environment.
At the same event, Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) Executive Director George William Nyombi Thembo reminded higher‑education institutions that traditional educational models are no longer sufficient. With students as “digital natives,” he said, universities must evolve from merely transmitting knowledge to enabling students to create and apply knowledge in real‑life contexts.
University leaders echoed the call. Varghese Mundamattam, Chairman of ISBAT University’s Board, stressed the importance of industry‑academia partnerships, practical internships and research that addresses market needs. “Innovation cannot happen in isolation,” he said.
To turn these ambitions into reality, stakeholders say higher‑education institutions must:
- Develop programmes aligned to industry demands and emerging technologies such as AI, virtual reality and data analytics.
- Establish incubation hubs and innovation ecosystems to commercialise research outputs.
- Expand digital skills training and infrastructure including reliable connectivity and smart classrooms in all regions.
- Forge stronger ties with government, industry and civil society for sustainable funding and real‑world application of university work.
The minister’s remarks mark a shift in expectations for Uganda’s universities: from knowledge providers to active partners in national development. As the digital economy grows, their role is no longer optional but central helping translate technology into jobs, services and inclusive growth.