Busitema University has reaffirmed its commitment to developing transformative leaders after several of its staff successfully completed the 9th Higher Education Resource Services–East Africa (HERS-EA) Leadership Academy, a premier regional programme designed to strengthen women's leadership in higher education.

Hosted by Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) from 13^th–17^th July 2026, the academy brought together women leaders from 16 universities and higher education institutions across East Africa under the theme, "Repositioning Women in Higher Education to Lead 21st Century Research, Collaboration and Resource Mobilisation."

The week-long academy equipped participants with practical skills in strategic leadership, institutional governance, research management, negotiation, partnership development, mentorship and resource mobilisation. Through interactive workshops, peer learning and networking sessions, participants exchanged experiences and explored innovative approaches to addressing the evolving challenges facing higher education in the region.

For Busitema University, participation in the academy represents more than professional development. It is a strategic investment in strengthening institutional leadership and expanding regional collaboration to enhance research, innovation and academic excellence.

Reflecting on the experience, Dr Godliver Owomugisha, Head of the Busitema Artificial Intelligence and Interdisciplinary Research Group, described the academy as an eye-opening opportunity that challenged participants to think differently about leadership.

"We often don't realise what we're missing until we surround ourselves with inspiring leaders and colleagues who challenge our thinking, share their experiences and encourage us to see new possibilities," she said.

"Leadership is not just about leading institutions. It is about creating environments where others can grow, thrive and contribute to meaningful change. Thank you, HERS-EA and Busitema University, for an inspiring and enriching learning experience. You are not only shaping higher education, you are reshaping the world."

Dr Carol Kawuma, a Researcher in Plant Taxonomy, Biosystematics and Conservation, said the programme had broadened her perspective on leadership and strengthened her appreciation of the role of women in advancing scientific research and conservation.

"Participating in the HERS-East Africa Leadership Academy was a truly transformative experience. It broadened my perspective on leadership, strengthened my professional networks and inspired me to contribute more effectively to advancing higher education and research in my field," she noted.

Dr Asingwire Barbara Kabwiga, a Computer Engineer with a major in IT and Embedded Computing Systems, emphasised that empowering women in higher education must go beyond increasing representation.

"It is about equipping women to lead research, build strategic partnerships, mobilise resources and drive innovation that creates lasting impact for society. I am glad to have been part of the 9th HERS-EA Leadership Academy," she said.

Dr Racheal Namulondo, Researcher in Development Microeconomics, highlighted the academy's practical value, particularly the sessions on strategic leadership, research management, and resource mobilisation, noting that these areas are critical for strengthening both individual and institutional effectiveness in higher education.

"The course was fantastic, particularly the insights on strategic leadership, research management and resource mobilisation. I have already started applying some of the knowledge in developing my leadership project. I thank the course facilitators for their mentorship and Busitema University for supporting my participation."

The academy also created opportunities for participants to establish professional networks with colleagues from across East Africa, opening doors for future research collaborations, knowledge exchange and institutional partnerships.

As universities increasingly seek innovative solutions to address regional and global challenges, leadership development initiatives such as HERS-EA are playing a critical role in preparing women leaders to influence policy, attract research funding and build resilient institutions.

Busitema University's participation in the regional academy reflects its continued commitment to nurturing leaders who can advance excellence in teaching, research, innovation and community engagement. By investing in its people and strengthening regional partnerships, the University continues to position itself as a key contributor to the transformation of higher education and sustainable development in Uganda, East Africa and beyond.