By Leonard Kamugisha Akida and Ezrah Kashumbusha,
KAMPALA
The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation is set to hold the third edition of the National Science Week aimed at promoting science and innovation in the country starting November 6.
David Bonahasa, an official from the Innovations Science and Technology secretariat says that at least 74 Venture Capital firms will participate in this year’s National Science Week, according to the ministry.
“We have 74 venture capitalists coming o this country to not only see what innovations we have available but also to engage with the government on how to make it easy to take Uganda to the next innovation destiny. They will also be coming to invest and support innovators,” said Bonahasa.
Dr. Monica Musenero, the minister of science, technology and innovation says that in the contemporary World it has become increasingly impossible to divorce the realms of Science, technology and Innovation from national economic development.
“Globally we witness strong economies realigning their priorities to adapt to the ever evolving landscape “ Musenero noted
The occasion which will run under the theme Uganda Tusimbudde; “Our Science Journey Towards Socio- economic Transformation”, will start on 6th-11th of November 2023 at Kololo ceremonial grounds With gates open for everyone will offer participants from all walks of life with hands on understanding of the remarkable progress Uganda has made in different fields of Science, Technology and Innovation.
According to Musenero during the week, thematic areas that will be explored include; pathogen economy, mobility, import substitution, infrastructure innovation,export targeted , industry , productivity acceleration and aeronautics and scape .
“Uganda cannot afford to remain a passive observer as global initiatives, primarily driven by our counterparts in the fields of science led transformation shapes the future that will determine our very survival” said Musenero
“We will also showcase the various advancements in the field of vaccines, drugs and much more. We have about a total of 300 exhibitions of unique products at the National Science Week,” she added.
The President of Uganda is expected to officially open the function on the second day while prime Minister Rt Honorable Robinah Nabbanja will officiate the closure of the weeklong event accompanied by the high powered entertainment from artists and other local performers.