A Milestone in Biomedical Innovation: Yvonne Tusiimire’s PhD Defense Success

aaron — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 06:50:32 +0000

A Milestone in Biomedical Innovation: Yvonne Tusiimire’s PhD Defense Success aaron Apr 30, 2026

Ms. Yvonne Tusiimire has marked an important step in her academic journey after successfully defending her PhD at Makerere University. Her research, “3D Electrospun PLLA Nanofibrous Membranes Coated with Regenerated Silk Fibroin and Silver Nitrate for Burn Wounds,” contributes to ongoing efforts to improve materials used in burn care.

The study focused on developing a biomimetic scaffold designed to support better healing outcomes. In the course of her work, she developed and refined a 3D electrospun PLLA membrane coated with regenerated silk fibroin and silver nitrate. She also examined how plasma finishing and biodegradation affect the material, assessed cell viability and cytotoxicity, and evaluated its antibacterial properties. These combined investigations provide useful insight into how such materials may perform in practical medical settings.

Her Viva Voce took place on April 22, 2026, at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, with both in-person and online participation. The session began with detailed feedback from Dr. Edwin Kamalha, who raised key structural and technical points during an hour-long discussion. This was followed by further engagement with a panel of six examiners, who explored different aspects of the study, including methodology and interpretation of results.

Over the course of the four-hour examination, Ms. Tusiimire responded to questions with clarity and composure, demonstrating a solid understanding of her research area.

Her successful defense reflects sustained effort and careful scholarship, and adds to the body of research addressing challenges in wound management through advances in science and engineering.

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Dr. Catherine Namuga Awarded PhD, Unveils Innovative Bioactive Dressing to Improve Wound Care

aaron — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 11:19:06 +0000

Dr. Catherine Namuga Awarded PhD, Unveils Innovative Bioactive Dressing to Improve Wound Care aaron Mar 19, 2026

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Dr. Catherine Namuga, a Lecturer at Busitema University’s Faculty of Engineering and Technology, has successfully earned her PhD in Engineering from Makerere University. Her research introduces an innovative biomedical solution, a bioactive gauze dressing infused with herb-loaded nanoparticles, offering promising advances in faster wound healing and improved patient care.

Wound healing is a complex process, and when it is delayed or impaired, patients face increased risks of infection, prolonged hospitalization, and higher medical costs. Gauze remains one of the most widely used dressing materials because of its affordability and accessibility, yet conventional gauze offers minimal protection against bacterial invasion. This limitation often slows recovery and complicates treatment.

In Uganda, as in many developing countries, herbal medicine continues to play a central role in healthcare. Medicinal plants are valued for their antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, which support natural healing. However, traditional herbal remedies often require large doses and extended treatment periods, which can reduce patient adherence and limit their clinical impact. Dr. Namuga’s research sought to overcome these challenges by combining the therapeutic potential of herbal medicine with the precision of nanotechnology, creating a dressing that is both effective and practical.

Her study began with the extraction of bioactive compounds from three medicinal plants commonly used in traditional wound care: Bidens pilosa, Ageratum conyzoides, and Hoslundia opposita. Various extraction methods and solvents of differing polarity were tested to identify the most efficient techniques. The resulting extracts were evaluated for antibacterial, antibiofilm, and antioxidant activity, as well as for the presence of phytochemicals responsible for these biological effects.

The antibacterial assays targeted pathogens frequently associated with wound infections. These microorganisms are notorious for causing severe infections and delaying wound recovery. The findings revealed that highly polar solvents produced higher yields of bioactive compounds. Among the extracts tested, the 100 percent methanol extract of Hoslundia opposita, obtained through maceration, demonstrated the strongest biological activity. This extract exhibited superior antibacterial, antibiofilm, and antioxidant properties, attributed to its rich phytochemical profile. Further analysis using Gas Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Liquid Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) identified key compounds responsible for these effects.

To enhance therapeutic performance, Dr. Namuga employed nanoencapsulation technology. The selected extract was encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles using the ionic gelation method. Chitosan is widely recognized in biomedical engineering for its biocompatibility, antimicrobial properties, and ability to support controlled drug release. The nanoparticle formulation was optimized using Response Surface Methodology (RSM), a statistical tool that determines optimal experimental conditions. The resulting nanoparticles were spherical, with an average size of approximately 212 nanometers, a zeta potential of 40 millivolts, and a polydispersity index of 0.22, indicating stability and uniform distribution. The formulation achieved an encapsulation efficiency of 79.1 percent and a drug loading capacity of 9.82 percent.

One of the most significant advantages of nanoencapsulation observed in the study was sustained drug release. Laboratory tests showed that the nanoparticles released about 50 percent of the herbal extract over a 24-hour period, compared to nearly 100 percent release from the free extract within the same timeframe. This controlled release helps maintain therapeutic levels of active compounds for longer durations, reducing the need for frequent dressing changes.

The herb-loaded nanoparticles also demonstrated enhanced antibacterial activity, with minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 1.875 to 3.275 milligrams per milliliter against the tested bacterial strains. These results confirmed that nanoencapsulation improved the antimicrobial effectiveness of the herbal extract.

The nanoparticles were then incorporated into gauze dressings to evaluate their performance in wound treatment. The bioactive gauze was tested for water absorption capacity, moisture retention, antibacterial activity, and wound healing effectiveness. Experimental studies using Wistar rats revealed that wounds treated with the nanoparticle-functionalized gauze achieved 93 percent closure by the eighteenth day, compared to only 41 percent closure in wounds treated with conventional gauze. These findings clearly demonstrated that the bioactive dressing significantly accelerated wound healing.

Safety assessments were also conducted to ensure compatibility with skin tissue. Skin irritation tests performed on rabbits showed no adverse reactions, confirming that the dressing is safe for biomedical applications. Importantly, the incorporation of nanoparticles did not compromise the gauze’s physical properties, such as water absorption capacity, ensuring that the dressing retained its essential functionality.

Further phytochemical analysis identified rutin and 4′′′-acetylvitexin-2′′-O-rhamnoside as major bioactive compounds in the methanol extract of Hoslundia opposita. These compounds are believed to play a central role in the extract’s antibacterial and wound-healing properties.

As a Lecturer in the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at Busitema University, her work combines engineering, biotechnology, and traditional medicine to address pressing healthcare challenges.

For more about her Innovation

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Science Must Power Uganda’s Transformation, Says Minister Musenero at Busitema STI Symposium

ivan — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 06:16:18 +0000

Science Must Power Uganda’s Transformation, Says Minister Musenero at Busitema STI Symposium ivan Oct 17, 2025

Research

A surge of optimism swept through Busitema University’s Faculty of Health Sciences in Mbale as scientists, innovators, and policy makers from across Africa and beyond gathered for the 3rd Busitema University Science, Technology and Innovation Symposium.
The three-day event, held from October 14th to 16th, 2025, brought together local and international delegates to reflect on how science and technology can drive industrialization and community transformation. The symposium, organized by the Directorate of Graduate Studies, Research and Innovation, ran under the theme “Driving Transformative Science, Technology and Innovation for Sustainable Industrialization and Community Impact.”
Opening the event, Prof. Paul Waako, the Vice Chancellor, welcomed keynote speakers and delegates from Pakistan, Kenya, and across East Africa. He noted that the symposium had become a defining part of Busitema’s calendar a space where ideas meet opportunity.
“We are now emphasizing innovation and product development as a fourth core mission, alongside teaching, research, and community outreach,” Prof. Waako said. “This focus will help us contribute directly to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation and the country’s Vision 2040 growth strategy.”
The Vice Chancellor commended the sponsors and partners who continue to support the university’s growing role as a hub for applied research and technology-driven entrepreneurship.
In his welcome remarks, Prof. Dan Kibuule, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, described the symposium as an “ideal platform for scientific exchange” that bridges disciplines and accelerates knowledge transfer. He emphasized that the event aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan IV, Vision 2040, Africa’s Agenda 2063, and the Sustainable Development Goals. “This is where science meets society,” he said. “It’s an opportunity to share cutting-edge research, explore emerging technologies, and turn innovation into impact.”
Assoc echoed that message. Prof. Samson Rwahwire, Director of Graduate Studies, Research and Innovation, who underscored the university’s commitment to transforming research into tangible outcomes. “This gathering reflects our belief that knowledge must lead to solutions,” Rwahwire remarked. “Busitema University stands among Uganda’s top four institutions in research excellence, and we take pride in ensuring our discoveries serve real community needs.”

Associate Professor Rwahwire delivers remarks to delegates during the meeting

He further highlighted the university’s focus on strategic areas aligned with Africa’s Agenda 2063, Uganda’s Vision 2040, and the forthcoming National Development Plan. These priorities include the ATM framework Agro-processing, Tourism, and Minerals (including Oil and Gas) as well as Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI).
The symposium featured thought-provoking keynote addresses from Dr. Yasin Nawab, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kamalia in Pakistan, and Prof. Josephat I. Mwasiagi of Moi University, Kenya. Both scholars spoke about the transformative power of technology in advancing sustainable industries, urging African institutions to invest in innovation ecosystems that link academia with enterprise.

Professor Mwasiagi delivers a keynote speech to delegates.

Their perspectives, blending global experience with regional priorities, resonated deeply with the participants, reinforcing Busitema’s growing reputation as an emerging leader in applied research.
Delivering the keynote message as Chief Guest, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation in the Office of the President, called on universities to move beyond research for its own sake and focus on translating knowledge into practical innovations that uplift communities. “Knowledge must become tools, and tools must become innovations,” she told the audience. “That is how we progress our economy.”
Dr. Musenero commended Busitema University for taking a front-line role in transforming Uganda’s education system into a foundation for industrial and technological growth. She pointed to emerging innovations in banana textiles, artificial intelligence integration, and agro-industrial value addition as powerful examples of research with economic impact.
“I am impressed by the creativity here from turning banana waste into textile fibers to embedding AI in research,” she said. “These are the seeds of an industrial future.”
The Minister also announced government plans to collaborate with Busitema University in establishing an Agro-Science Park at the Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Sciences, aimed at turning agricultural research into commercial enterprises.
She noted that the government’s broader agenda includes building capacity for value addition in key crops such as coffee, sweet potato, and banana. She highlighted the establishment of a Pathogen Economy Hub in Nakasongola to boost local vaccine production.
“We are creating an enabling environment where scientists can refine, incubate, and scale their innovations,” she said. “Busitema is at the heart of this transformation.”
Throughout the symposium, participants discussed the need for stronger linkages between universities, industry, and government. Presenters showcased innovative projects in health sciences, renewable energy, agribusiness, and digital technology all aimed at fostering sustainable livelihoods and industrial growth.

As discussions drew to a close, one message rang clear: Uganda’s future depends on how well it harnesses science and innovation to solve pressing challenges. The Minister’s words “Science must power Uganda’s transformation” became both a rallying cry and a call to action for Busitema University and its partners.
The 3rd Busitema University Science, Technology and Innovation Symposium ended not merely as a conference of ideas, but as a renewed commitment to turn research into reality knowledge into enterprise, and innovation into impact

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Herbal Medicine Exhibition: A New Dawn for Healthcare in Eastern Uganda

ivan — Sat, 28 Jun 2025 07:19:49 +0000

Herbal Medicine Exhibition: A New Dawn for Healthcare in Eastern Uganda ivan Jun 28, 2025

Research

On June 25, 2025, Busitema University, in collaboration with the Pathogen Economy Bureau (PEB) of the Secretariat of Science, Technology and Innovation – Office of the President (STI-OP), proudly hosted the inaugural Herbal Medicine Exhibition for Eastern Uganda. The engagement was aimed at bringing together traditional healers, researchers, and policymakers to bridge the gap between the indigenous knowledge holders and scientists so as to create a good working environment where there is mutual benefit, transparency, interdependence and shared vision of enhancing the value of herbal medicine. The exhibition served as a vital platform for dialogue, demonstration, and the exchange of groundbreaking ideas in herbal medicine. The central vision of the exhibition focused on the seamless integration of traditional healing practices with contemporary scientific methods.
According to Dr. Samuel Baker Obakiro, The Centre Leader of the Natural Products Research and Innovation Centre (NaPRiC), some countries like Ghana, China and South Korea have already integrated herbal medicine into their conventional health care systems because they have embraced quality science to advance their herbal medicines. This synergy promises a more holistic and culturally sensitive approach to healthcare, particularly benefiting communities across Eastern Uganda. The goal of NaPRiC is to provide the required scientific evidence to support the standardization of herbal medicine in Uganda for enhanced market potential.
"On behalf of Busitema University, it is my profound honour and pleasure to welcome you all to the Herbal Medicine Exhibition – Eastern Uganda, the first of its kind in our region. Today marks a significant milestone in our shared journey towards improving healthcare through indigenous knowledge, scientific advancement, and innovation. "This inspiring message from the Vice Chancellor, delivered by Assoc. Prof. Saphina Biira, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Research, resonated deeply with attendees. It reaffirmed the university’s strong commitment to promoting traditional medicine and fostering a collaborative environment for its development. Her remarks set an optimistic tone for the future of healthcare in the region.
The National Drug Authority (NDA) also played a pivotal role in the event. Dr. Michael Mutyaba, Director of Traditional and Contemporary Medicine, delivered a presentation on The Status of the Herbal Medicine Industry in Uganda: Quality, Regulation, and Commercialization. He urged herbalists to collaborate in adding value to traditional medicines.
“NDA wants to ensure three key elements of traditional medicines: quality, safety, and efficacy. We therefore encourage herbalists to undertake the Occupational Herbalists course offered by the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) to help achieve this,” remarked Dr. Mutyaba.
The Pathogen Economy Bureau (PEB) is working closely with other government agencies to provide policy guidance, financial support and strategic direction for the advancement of traditional and complementary medicine. Ms. Brenda Nakazibwe, Team Lead at PEB, emphasized their role in managing and harnessing economic opportunities to support the natural therapeutics value chains in addition to vaccines, diagnostics and medical devices. She stressed the importance of quality science and standardization of herbal medicines through preclinical and clinical trials to ensure that Uganda’s herbal medicines meet both the national and international standards. By adding value to our natural medicines we don’t only improve the quality of primary health care services to our people but also unlock a huge economic power for Uganda as well as create million jobs for our youth.
The exhibition featured a vibrant array of stalls and demonstrations. Traditional healers showcased ancient practices such as plant identification and the preparation of herbal concoctions. Meanwhile, modern scientists demonstrated advanced research techniques, including chromatography for isolating active compounds and in-vitro bioactivity testing. Visitors experienced firsthand the power of blending traditional wisdom with scientific rigor.
Beyond the exhibits, a series of workshops and panel discussions fostered engaging dialogue on vital topics such as intellectual property rights for traditional healers, sustainable harvesting practices, and ethical considerations in herbal medicine research. Participants actively contributed ideas to help shape the future of herbal medicine in Uganda.
The exhibition is expected to have a lasting impact on healthcare in Eastern Uganda. By promoting collaboration between traditional and conventional medicine, it aims to improve access to safe, effective, and affordable healthcare solutions, especially for rural communities. Additionally, the event is projected to stimulate local economies through the sustainable cultivation and commercialization of medicinal plants.
The success of this inaugural exhibition sets a strong precedent for future initiatives. Busitema University and its partners plan to institutionalize the event as an annual platform, expanding its reach and influence in the coming years.

Key recommendations moving forward:
● Establish a Research Fund: Create a dedicated fund to support scientific research into traditional herbal remedies.

● Develop Training Programs: Implement training for both traditional healers and conventional medical practitioners to foster interdisciplinary collaboration.

● Formulate Clear Policies: Collaborate with government agencies to establish supportive policies for integrating traditional medicine into the national health system.

● Community Engagement: Maintain active engagement with local communities to ensure the sustainable use of medicinal plants and preserve indigenous knowledge.
● Protect the environment: Conserve the environment and promote sustainable practices for utilization of medicinal natural resources to avoid extinction particularly for the endangered species

This exhibition marks the beginning of a transformative journey toward a healthier, more inclusive, and sustainable healthcare future for Eastern Uganda.

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Busitema University Holds First Annual Doctoral Convention to Fuel Research Excellence and Innovation

ivan — Thu, 29 May 2025 09:13:08 +0000

Busitema University Holds First Annual Doctoral Convention to Fuel Research Excellence and Innovation ivan May 29, 2025

Research

In a landmark event poised to reshape Uganda’s academic landscape, Busitema University hosted its First Annual Doctoral Convention, bringing together doctoral scholars, researchers, and key stakeholders to ignite a culture of research excellence and innovation.

The Directorate of Graduate Studies, Research, and Innovation organized the convention as a hub for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and discussions on the future of postgraduate research.

A Bold Step Toward a Research-Driven Future

Associate Professor Saphina Biira, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Research, and Innovation, set the tone with an inspiring opening address. She hailed the convention as a pivotal moment for the university, transitioning from a smaller pilot event last year to a fully-fledged annual tradition.

“This convention is not just a gathering, it’s a launchpad for transformative research,” Prof. Biira declared. She outlined bold initiatives to enhance research accountability, including a digital tracking system for monitoring doctoral progress, from coursework to supervision.

Emphasizing the need for tangible research outputs, she revealed that the university has already registered six trademarks this year and is actively supporting students with patentable innovations. “Doctoral research must go beyond theory, it should produce real world solutions,” she further asserted.

Looking ahead, Busitema plans to establish an academic journal, spotlighting postgraduate research and staff innovations. Prof. Biira also addressed the rise of AI in academia, urging scholars to use it as a tool for critical thinking.

Patents Over Papers? A New Research Paradigm

Associate Professor Samson Rwahwire, Director of Graduate Studies, Research, and Innovation, delivered a compelling case for patents and high impact research publications.

“We speak of innovation, yet Uganda barely has two patents to its name at the world stage,” he urged doctoral candidates to prioritize intellectual property. “Why not file for a patent before submitting your thesis or journal publications? It is unconventional yet transformative.

Prof. Rwahwire also warned against predatory journals, advising researchers to target reputable indexed journals or databases for instance PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus. “Publishing in the right places strengthens your doctoral defence and amplifies your impact,” he said.

While acknowledging AI’s utility in literature reviews and proposal drafting, he cautioned against over reliance: “AI is a partner, not a replacement, for deep scholarship.”

A Vision for National and Global Impact

The convention signals Busitema University’s unwavering commitment to research that drives national development. With plans for a Third Annual Research Symposium later this year and the launch of the research journal, the institution is positioning itself as a hub for research and innovation.

"Research should extend beyond academia and address real-world problems” As Uganda’s brightest minds left the convention, one message resonated: The future of research is here, and Busitema is leading the charge.

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Busitema University Showcases Innovations

ivan — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 08:06:50 +0000

Busitema University Showcases Innovations ivan Apr 04, 2025

Research

Busitema University actively participated in the 15th Regional Higher Education Exhibition, held from 27th to 29th March 2025 at Kakumuzi District Headquarters Open Grounds in Mbarara City. The university was well represented by research teams from the Space Science Group, NapRIC, Busitema University Artificial Intelligence Group (BUAIIR), the Materials & Energy Storage Innovation Centre (MESIC), and the Agro Science Park project. These teams highlighted the university's advancements in education and research.

Among the showcased innovations were cutting-edge tools such as Afro diagnosis for detecting cassava diseases, Lung Vision for early lung cancer screening, Gait Recognition for person identification via skeletal features, and a Cattle Disease Detection mobile app. Additionally, the university presented locally produced rechargeable lithium batteries, demonstrating sustainable energy solutions. Health-focused innovations included HERICOP soap with antifungal and antibacterial properties, TAZCOV syrup for respiratory relief, Glutak for diabetes management, and Provrid for HIV/AIDS treatment. The exhibition also featured a high-powered telescope and a space weather early warning system that utilizes NASA satellite data and ground sensors to predict weather patterns over varying timeframes. The Orange Fresh Sweet Potato/Agro Science Park Project showcased value-added sweet potato products, further underlining the university's commitment to agricultural innovation.

The exhibition was officially opened on March 28th, 2025, by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa. During his tour of the exhibition stalls, Rt. Hon. Tayebwa commended Busitema University's MESIC team for their innovative work in fabricating rechargeable lithium batteries using locally available materials. This recognition underscored the university's commitment to sustainable technological advancements and self-reliance in energy solutions.

This year's exhibition theme focused on "Challenges and Best Practices of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration in Higher Education in Uganda." Busitema University actively engaged in discussions and showcased research efforts aligned with this theme, emphasizing its role in shaping the future of AI in academia.

The exhibition concluded on March 29th, 2025, with an official closing ceremony presided over by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Sports, Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda. The event served as a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and the promotion of innovative solutions in higher education.

Busitema University remains committed to advancing research, innovation, and technological development, significantly contributing to Uganda's higher education landscape.

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Scholarship Awards Ceremony Held at Faculty of Science and Education

ivan — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 16:50:07 +0000

Scholarship Awards Ceremony Held at Faculty of Science and Education ivan Nov 14, 2024

Research

Today, the Faculty of Science and Education, We celebrated a remarkable milestone by awarding scholarships to nine graduate students. The ceremony, held at the Space Science Institute, honored five PhD and four Master’s degree recipients for their achievements and dedication.

The event was officiated by Vice Chancellor Prof. Paul Waako and hosted by Faculty Dean Prof. David Kani Olema. In his opening remarks, Prof. Olema called for improved infrastructure and better internet access to support the faculty’s mission of delivering high-quality education, research, and outreach for industrialization and sustainable development.

Dr. Agaba Doreen, representing the Secretariat of Science, Technology and Innovation office of the president (STI-OP), highlighted the importance of the Space-Based Early Warning Tool Project, which aims to empower Ugandan farmers with accurate weather data. This innovative tool is designed to help subsistence farmers in Eastern Uganda adapt to climate risks and enhance agricultural productivity, addressing food security challenges through local innovation.

Vice Chancellor prof. Waako commended the project for its focus on inclusivity and its efforts to build capacity in the underrepresented field of space science. He praised its interdisciplinary approach, which promotes innovation and encourages more women to participate in academia and research.

The scholarship program is part of the Space-Based Early Warning Tool Project, an initiative funded by STI-OP to advance space science and technology in Uganda. The project aims to equip students and researchers with the skills and resources needed to address critical national challenges.

The ceremony was a significant moment for both the university and STI-OP, paving the way for innovation, capacity building, and sustainable development.

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Busitema University and Mbale Clinical Research Institute Lead Study on the Association between Malaria and Climate Change in Eastern and North-Eastern Uganda.

aaron — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 16:11:10 +0000

Busitema University and Mbale Clinical Research Institute Lead Study on the Association between Malaria and Climate Change in Eastern and North-Eastern Uganda. aaron Jun 26, 2024

News Releases

Busitema University in collaboration with the Mbale Clinical Research Institute (MCRI), is spearheading a critical study on the Development of Geospatio-Temporal Surveillance and Characterization of Malaria in the Changing Climatic Conditions in Eastern Uganda (GTS-MACS), a study that has already yielded some noteworthy findings. Professor Peter Olupot-Olupot from Busitema University, who leads the project, recently hosted a dissemination meeting to share these results and engage stakeholders in the discussion of two new curricula developed under the project's capacity-building component with the Vice Chancellor of Busitema University, Professor Paul Waako, as the chief guest at this significant event.

The GTS-MACS project aims to explore the epidemiology of malaria and the potential emergence of drug resistance in the context of evolving climatic conditions in Eastern and Northeastern Uganda. Recognizing the lack of comprehensive data on how climatic variability affects malaria epidemiology in Uganda, this study seeks to bridge this gap by examining how temperature, rainfall, and humidity influence malaria transmission and identifying any markers of resistance to current antimalarial drugs. The project also aspires to generate data that will be instrumental in shaping targeted interventions and disease control policies.

One of the project's primary objectives is to conduct geospatial-temporal surveillance of malaria. This aspect of the project has been completed, resulting in a detailed malaria epidemiological map that highlights the patterns and distribution of the disease in relation to climatic factors such as temperature, rainfall, and humidity. This map serves as a crucial tool for understanding how climatic elements drive malaria transmission and helps in pinpointing areas that require targeted interventions. Another key objective of the project is to detect molecular markers of artemisinin resistance in Eastern Uganda. The study has made significant progress in the laboratory analyses, with preliminary data hinting at emerging patterns of resistance. These findings will be crucial for developing strategies to combat drug-resistant malaria strains.

The project also focuses on determining the time required to achieve complete parasite clearance in children treated with Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies. Similarly, this objective is nearing completion, with data collection and preliminary analyses already finalized. The final steps involve validating the data and reporting the findings, which will provide insights into parasite clearance rates, tolerance levels, and implications for treatment protocols.

In addition to these scientific objectives, the GTS-MACS project has prioritized capacity building by developing two new curricula; a postgraduate curriculum on clinical and health research methods and an undergraduate curriculum on environmental health. These curricula have been thoroughly reviewed and refined through presentations and discussions at various levels, including feedback from stakeholders with the final versions a set to be presented to stakeholders.

As portrayed in the GTS-MACS project report, the dissemination of the project's preliminary findings has been conducted through several avenues. Regular meetings with the investigators' team from December 2023 to May 2024 provided a platform for ongoing discussions and updates. Additionally, an online dissemination event was held on March 15, 2024, which allowed researchers, healthcare providers, and policymakers to engage with the preliminary findings and discuss their implications. The project’s findings were also shared at the First Africa-Russia International Conference on the Fight Against Infectious Diseases, held in Kampala, Uganda, from April 17 to 19, 2024. The conference, organized under the theme "Towards Sustainable Response to Emerging & Re-emerging Infectious Diseases in Africa," provided a significant platform for the GTS-MACS team to present their research and receive valuable feedback.

Furtherstill, the GTS-MACS project team plans to disseminate their data through various channels, including publications, conferences, seminars, and scientific meetings. They will also be writing new research protocols and networking to further studies on climate change and malaria in Uganda.

The GTS-MACS project represents a pivotal step in understanding and combating malaria amidst changing climatic conditions. The research findings of this project have the potential to significantly influence disease control policies and interventions, ultimately contributing to the reduction of malaria prevalence in Uganda and beyond.

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Launching a Project That Explores Application of Banana Fibre for New Products

ivan — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 19:42:43 +0000

Launching a Project That Explores Application of Banana Fibre for New Products ivan Apr 05, 2024

Research

Busitema University in conjunction with other entities like TexFad, UNCST and UNBS launched a project that explores application of banana fiber for new products that can be employed in the making of cloths, bandages, socks and several other products. The Principal Investigator and the team leader for this research is Dr. Kamala Edwin who also serves as the head of Department, Polymer Textile and Industrial Engineering.

The project was officiated by the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration; Dr. Kamba Fadil who thanked Dr. Kamala for equipping and training the young generation with practical skills and values as some of the research had been done by students who had recently graduated from Busitema University with many of them being undergraduate students of Bachelors in Polymer Textiles and Industrial Engineering while the others were postgraduate students of Masters in Materials Engineering. Dr. Kamba further encouraged Dr. Kamala to carry on with such trainings and research because such initiatives were aiding the University to achieve some of its goals and mission

One of the Participating Entities included TEXFAD whose CEO; Mr. Kimani Muturi was happy for this project and the collaboration that is to come out of this.

TEXFAD is a banana textile industry that deals in production of hand-woven textiles in Uganda that transforms waste banana pseudo stems and other waste materials into high qualitysustainable textile products.

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Deputy Vice Chancellor Opens Workshop on Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potatoes in Soroti

ivan — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 19:19:29 +0000

Deputy Vice Chancellor Opens Workshop on Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potatoes in Soroti ivan Jan 30, 2024

Agriculture

Deputy Vice Chancellor Associate Professor Saphina Biira has officially opened a workshop on orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, organized by the Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Sciences in collaboration with Century Green at Hursey Resort Hotel in Soroti. The engagement workshop focused on a Science and Technology Innovation (STI) funded project themed "Strengthening the Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato and Agro-Science Park."

The team from Century Green, led by their CEO, Mr. Vincent Anigbogu, presented their findings and progress on the project. The Minister of Science and Technology, Hon. Monica Musenero, is expected to inspect the project site tomorrow, Wednesday, 31st January 2024, in Soroti. The project aims to promote the cultivation and utilization of orange-fleshed sweet potatoes in Uganda, as a means of addressing vitamin A deficiency and improving nutrition among communities.

The workshop brought together researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders in the agriculture sector to discuss the project's progress and challenges, and to identify ways to enhance its impact. Speaking at the workshop, Deputy Vice Chancellor Biira emphasized the importance of collaboration between academia, industry, and government in addressing food security and nutrition challenges. She commended the partnership between the Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Sciences and Century Green, and expressed optimism that the project would contribute significantly to improving the livelihoods of farmers and communities in the region.

The workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to share their experiences and expertise, and to develop strategies for scaling up the production and consumption of orange-fleshed sweet potatoes in Uganda. The Minister's visit to the project site is expected to further highlight the government's commitment to supporting agricultural research and innovation for improved food security and nutrition.

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A Milestone in Biomedical Innovation: Yvonne Tusiimire’s PhD Defense Success

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Dr. Catherine Namuga Awarded PhD, Unveils Innovative Bioactive Dressing to Improve Wound Care

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Science Must Power Uganda’s Transformation, Says Minister Musenero at Busitema STI Symposium

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Herbal Medicine Exhibition: A New Dawn for Healthcare in Eastern Uganda

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Busitema University Holds First Annual Doctoral Convention to Fuel Research Excellence and Innovation

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Busitema University Showcases Innovations

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Scholarship Awards Ceremony Held at Faculty of Science and Education

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Busitema University and Mbale Clinical Research Institute Lead Study on the Association between Malaria and Climate Change in Eastern and North-Eastern Uganda.

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Launching a Project That Explores Application of Banana Fibre for New Products

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Deputy Vice Chancellor Opens Workshop on Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potatoes in Soroti

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