In a commanding display of innovation, digital excellence, and AI integration, the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT) emerged as the overall winner at the 15th Annual Higher Education Exhibition organized by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE).

Held at Kamukuzi Hill in Mbarara City, this year’s landmark event ran under the theme:
🎯 “Challenges and Best Practices of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration in Higher Education in Uganda.”

Bringing together top universities, vocational institutes, and education pioneers from across Uganda, the exhibition showcased how institutions are responding to the rapidly evolving demands of AI and digital transformation in education.

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🥇 UICT Leads the Nation in AI-Powered Innovation

UICT took 1st place in the Public and Chartered Private Institutions category—earning top honors for its:

• Cutting-edge AI-powered exhibits
• Hands-on demonstrations of ICT solutions
• Student-led projects in machine learning, cybersecurity, and digital systems
• Integration of real-world applications into the learning environment

“We are proud to see UICT leading Uganda’s digital transformation journey through education, innovation, and community empowerment,” said Dr. Edward Kanyesigye, Chief Judge of the exhibition panel.

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🧠 Why UICT Stood Out

The judging criteria included:

• Relevance to the AI theme
• Level of creativity and innovation
• Subject expertise and presentation clarity
• Depth of participation
• Overall display and student engagement

UICT exceeded expectations in all areas—offering an interactive, future-ready showcase that blended technical skills with real-world impact.

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🗣️ Leaders Applaud AI Integration in Education

The event was officially opened by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, following a high-level conference inaugurated by First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni, at Hotel Triangle.

At the closing ceremony, Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda, Director of Education Standards, praised the level of participation:

“Institutions like UICT are setting the bar for equitable access to information and future-forward learning pathways.”

Prof. Mary Okwakol, NCHE Executive Director, emphasized the council’s commitment to ensuring AI becomes a tool for national transformation through higher education.

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🧑‍💼 Prof. Joy Kwesiga: “Innovation Must Lead”

Prof. Joy Kwesiga, Chairperson of NCHE, urged institutions to not only integrate AI but also focus on value addition:

“Our future depends on innovations that solve problems. UICT has shown us what that looks like.”

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💡 UICT’s Vision: Building a Digitally Empowered Uganda

As a national hub for ICT training and skilling, UICT used the platform to demonstrate its:

• Leadership in AI education
• Commitment to 4IR technologies
• Impact on employability and industry collaboration
• Strong alumni engagement for mentorship and placement

“Our vision is not just to teach technology, but to shape innovators, job creators, and digital leaders for Uganda and beyond,” said Dr. Irene Nakiyimba, Deputy Principal of UICT.

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📍 Why This Matters

This victory for UICT highlights the strategic importance of:

• Digital transformation in education
• Vocational and hands-on learning
• National investment in AI capabilities
• Empowering youth with relevant, future-proof skills

UICT’s triumph isn’t just a win for the institution—it’s a win for Uganda’s journey toward a tech-driven future.