Busitema University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Paul Waako, is calling on students, staff, young people, innovators, entrepreneurs, surrounding communities and other stakeholders to participate in the MTN Spark Hub engagement taking place today, Tuesday, 15 September 2026, at Busitema University Main Campus in Busia District.

The engagement kicks off at 9:00 a.m. at the Technology Business Incubation and Innovation Centre (TBIIC) Building, Faculty of Engineering and Technology. Busitema University identifies TBIIC as one of the centres supporting innovation and incubation at the University, while the Main Campus in Busia District hosts the Faculty of Engineering and Technology.

Prof. Waako is encouraging the University community and members of the public to take advantage of the engagement to interact, learn and explore opportunities presented by digital technology, innovation and partnerships.

The engagement comes as Busitema University continues to strengthen its focus on digital learning and equitable access to technology. The University has proposed working with the MTN Uganda Foundation towards establishing a modern and inclusive Computer and Digital Skills Hub that would expand access to ICT resources and support students from disadvantaged backgrounds, including students with disabilities.

Access to digital technology remains an important concern for the University. Many Busitema University students come from rural and economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and some are unable to afford personal computers. This increases reliance on the University’s shared ICT facilities, which are essential in supporting students’ academic work, digital learning and research.

Prof. Waako's invitation is not limited to students pursuing engineering, computing or other technology-related programmes. Digital skills increasingly influence agriculture, health, education, business, research, engineering and entrepreneurship. Students from across disciplines are therefore encouraged to attend, interact with the teams involved and discover how technology can complement their studies and prepare them for future opportunities.

The invitation also extends to young people, innovators, entrepreneurs and members of communities around Busitema University. The University's plans for strengthening digital education include ICT outreach and digital literacy programmes aimed at extending knowledge and opportunities beyond the University.

The proposed digital initiative would include modern computer laboratories, digital learning resources, e-libraries, research databases and simulation platforms. It also provides for assistive technologies designed to make digital learning more accessible to students with visual, auditory or mobility impairments.

If realised, the initiative is expected to expand access to digital learning facilities for at least 7,000 students annually, strengthen practical ICT skills and digital literacy, and contribute to a more inclusive learning environment.

Prof. Waako is therefore encouraging students, staff, partners, innovators, entrepreneurs, young people and communities around the University to turn up and be part of today's engagement, interact with those involved and learn more about the opportunities that technology can create.

The MTN Spark Hub engagement starts at 9:00 a.m. today at the TBIIC Building, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Busitema University Main Campus, Busia District.

All students, staff and interested members of the community are welcome to attend.