Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa urged universities to spearhead solutions based research and embrace cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) while at Victoria University’s 8th graduation ceremony. He stressed out the need for research that directly addresses the challenges facing Uganda and the African continent.
Hon. Tayebwa Thomas highlighted that much of the research conducted in Uganda is funded by foreign entities, often prioritizing their own agendas over the nation’s needs. He urged the government and private sector to invest in research tailored to solve local problems.
The Deputy Speaker emphasized that universities possess the potential to drive transformative change in Uganda, but this can only be achieved by prioritizing impactful research. He commended Victoria University for establishing an AI computer laboratory dedicated to research and development.
Victoria University’s Vice Chancellor, Dr. Lawrence Muganga, echoed this sentiment, stating their ambition to develop Ugandan AI capable of understanding local languages and business practices. He believes this initiative will significantly benefit both students and the wider community.
Dr. Muganga expressed hope that Victoria University would play a key role in guiding the government’s AI policy development. Addressing concerns about AI’s impact on education, University Chancellor Prof. John Opunda urged students to view AI not as a substitute for learning but as a tool to enhance it.
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He encouraged students to engage critically with information, questioning its source and validity. In a call for greater collaboration and resource optimization, Hon. Thomas Tayebwa urged private universities to partner with public institutions.
He also suggested sharing resources like e-libraries to reduce costs and maximize efficiency.
