Familiarisation Visit to UICT and the National ICT Innovation Hub

The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance's familiarisation visits to its agencies and affiliated institutions continued on 31st July 2026 with a visit to the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT) and the National ICT Innovation Hub. The delegation was led by the Minister of State for ICT and National Guidance (National Guidance), Hon. Alioni Yorke Odria, together with the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Aminah Zawedde. The visit aimed to strengthen collaboration and provide the Ministry's new political leadership with a first-hand understanding of how the two institutions are contributing to Uganda's Digital Transformation Agenda through digital skills development, applied research, professional certification, and innovation. The delegation was received by Eng. Dean Munene, Chairperson of the UICT Governing Council; Dr. Fredrick E. Kitoogo, Principal of UICT; Ms. Flavia Opio, Team Lead of the National ICT Innovation Hub; together with the management and staff of both institutions. At UICT, the delegation toured the renovated Administration Block, Smart Classroom, Professional Certification Centre, ICT and Engineering Laboratories, AVR Laboratories, Cyber Security Lab, Hostel, Canteen, and Training Centre. The leaders also observed ongoing infrastructure improvements designed to strengthen ICT training and professional certification. At the National ICT Innovation Hub, the delegation interacted with innovators and witnessed demonstrations of immersive AVR technologies and other locally developed digital solutions that are addressing real-world challenges across different sectors. The visit also provided an opportunity to discuss ongoing education reforms, digital skills development, applied research, innovation, and professional certification. The discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between the Ministry, UICT, and the National ICT Innovation Hub to equip more Ugandans with practical digital skills while supporting research, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven solutions. Speaking during the visit, Hon. Alioni Yorke Odria said investments in modern learning and innovation facilities are critical to preparing young people for opportunities in the digital economy. "I am encouraged by the progress made in creating spaces that empower young people with the skills, tools, and opportunities to innovate. Facilities such as these are critical in nurturing talent, fostering creativity, and positioning Uganda to compete effectively in the digital age." The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, said the Ministry remains committed to creating an enabling environment where innovation can flourish by investing in the infrastructure, partnerships, and talent needed to drive Uganda's digital transformation. "Our focus is on creating an enabling environment where innovation can thrive. By investing in modern training facilities, certification centres, and innovation ecosystems, we are equipping Ugandans with the skills and opportunities needed to develop solutions that address national challenges and compete globally." The familiarisation visit highlighted the important role of UICT and the National ICT Innovation Hub in developing digital talent, advancing applied research, supporting entrepreneurship, and nurturing innovation. It also reinforced the Ministry's commitment to working closely with its institutions to build the skilled workforce, technologies, and innovation ecosystem needed to accelerate Uganda's digital transformation and socio-economic development.