As the air hums with the promise of progress, we at KAWA are thrilled to shine a spotlight on a pivotal event that embodies Uganda’s journey towards a brighter, more innovative future: the National Science Week (NSW) 2025. This year, from June 15th to 20th, 2025, at the Kololo Independence Grounds, we gather to celebrate the power of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) and witness firsthand how Uganda is transforming groundbreaking ideas into market-ready solutions.

Our insights are particularly sharpened by the recent discussions on The Capital Gang Show on June 14th, 2025, hosted by Oscar Semweya Musoke. The show featured a distinguished panel including Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero Musanza, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation – Office of the President, alongside Hon. Ssemujju Nganda, Hon. Abdu Katuntu, Hon. Emmanuel Lumala Dombo, and Dr. Fred Muhumuza.

Connecting the Curriculum to Real-World Impact

Dr. Monica Musenero, a beacon of scientific leadership in Uganda, eloquently reminds us that science is a journey. This journey, as she emphasized, builds on foundations laid before us, much like the tireless efforts of past scientists who paved the way for breakthroughs in areas like coffee research. She articulated a vision where science actively drives our economy, transitioning innovations from “the lab to the market” – a theme that resonates deeply with the core mission of NSW’25.

For our educators, school leaders, and especially our vibrant ICT club members, this year’s National Science Week offers an unparalleled opportunity to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. As Uganda embraces the new competence-based curriculum for both Lower and Upper Secondary Education, it becomes crucial for our students to see how the scientific principles and practical skills they are acquiring translate into tangible solutions for societal challenges.

Dr. Musenero’s insights on the critical link between science, innovation, and economic development are a direct call to action for our education system. She highlighted the need for economists and scientists to unite, fostering a shared understanding of how innovations like Kira Motors contribute to the economy, moving beyond simple input-output analyses to appreciate the growth of infant industries. This holistic perspective is precisely what the competence-based curriculum aims to instill: critical thinking, problem-solving, and a deep understanding of societal needs.

A Glimpse into Uganda’s STI Industrial Value Chains

The NSW’25 will showcase the remarkable progress being made across various STI Industrial Value Chains, offering a practical demonstration of the curriculum in action:

• Aeronautics and Space Science Bureau: Witness advancements in spacecraft, aircraft components, GIS, and avionics – a testament to the power of applied physics and engineering.
• Industry 4.0+: Explore cutting-edge technologies from semiconductor design to Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, and cybersecurity. Imagine your ICT club students witnessing the future of computing and digital platforms!
• Infrastructure Innovations: See how science is tackling challenges in mineral extraction, sustainable energy, waste management, and mobility infrastructure. This is where chemistry, civil engineering, and environmental science come alive.
• Mobility Bureau: Experience the evolution of sustainable transport, from electric vehicles like those from Kira Motors to advanced motorcycles and assistive technologies. This bureau’s goal to contribute 12.5% to National GDP by 2040 is a powerful vision for students studying design and manufacturing. Dr. Musenero highlighted that Kira Motors is the only Ugandan company with a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), signifying their commitment to genuine manufacturing.
• Pathogen Economy: Understand the vital role of science in human, animal, and plant health, with exhibits on vaccines, diagnostics, and medical equipment. This is a direct link to biology, chemistry, and public health studies. Dr. Musenero proudly shared that BioPharma is set to manufacture over 3,000 drugs, potentially cutting Uganda’s drug importation by 60% – a monumental achievement for our nation’s health security.
• Productivity Acceleration: Discover innovations aimed at increasing productivity across various sectors, with a special focus on value addition to agro-commodities from the Parish Development Model. This connects directly to agricultural science, business, and economics.
• Support Services: Learn about the enabling environment that transforms STI into economic value, encompassing policy, funding, and market readiness programs.

The KAWA Connect Innovation and Beyond

At KAWA, we are not just observers; we are active participants in this scientific revolution. We are proud to announce that KAWA will also showcase the KAWA Connect Innovation at NSW’25. This initiative exemplifies our commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and connecting aspiring scientists and innovators with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

The concerns raised by Honorable Ssemujju Nganda regarding the allocation of funds within the national budget and the challenges faced by infant industries like Kira Motors, coupled with Dr. Fred Muhumuza’s insights on strategic investment and global value chains, underscore the complex yet vital discussions surrounding STI. However, as Honorable Emmanuel Lumala Dombo reminded us, despite these challenges, Uganda has achieved significant milestones, including a remarkably stable currency and increasing exports to our neighbors. These positive indicators provide fertile ground for continued scientific and technological advancement.

A Call to Action for School Leaders

I urge every school leader, especially those spearheading ICT clubs and science departments, to prioritize sending your students to participate in the National Science Week 2025. This is not just an exhibition; it is a live classroom, a networking hub, and a source of profound inspiration. Encourage your students to interact with the innovators, understand the scientific principles behind the exhibits, and envision their own roles in shaping Uganda’s future.

Relive the Inspiration: National Science Week 2023

If you missed the National Science Week in 2023, you’re in luck! We highly recommend watching the “SCIENCE WEEK 2023” video. It provides a fantastic glimpse into the groundbreaking innovations and enthusiastic participation that defined last year’s event. This year, the National Science Week 2025 promises to be even more powerful, with an expanded range of cutting-edge technologies and unparalleled opportunities for engagement. Make sure you don’t miss out on this transformative experience!

Let us heed Dr. Musenero’s invitation to engage with the scientific community. The future of Uganda lies in the hands of our young, curious minds. Let them witness firsthand the power of science to solve our nation’s challenges and contribute to a prosperous future. The ICT clubs, in particular, should not miss this opportunity to connect with the cutting-edge technologies presented in Industry 4.0+ and other bureaus, igniting their passion for innovation and digital transformation.

Join us at Kololo from June 15th to 20th, 2025. Let’s ignite innovation, inspire our youth, and collectively build the Uganda we aspire to see!