EDUCATION WEEK HIGHLIGHTS AI INNOVATION AT KAMPALA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
By Econews
Mbarara City, Uganda – March 29, 2025 – The 15th Uganda Higher Education Institutions Exhibition, which concluded on March 28, 2025, underscored the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in revolutionising education. Among the standout exhibitors was Kampala International University (KIU), whose commitment to integrating cutting-edge technologies into its curriculum and research continued to impress at this year’s Education Week. The exhibition, which attracted thousands of education stakeholders from across Uganda, was inaugurated by the Minister of Education and the First Lady, Janet Museveni, marking a significant milestone for the education sector.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, who officiated the exhibition’s opening, lauded the country’s higher education institutions for their dedication to innovation. He emphasized that AI had moved from being a luxury to an essential tool for future competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global economy. “I am impressed by the level of innovation displayed here. Our higher education institutions play a crucial role in driving economic growth and development. AI is no longer a luxury but a necessity in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world. Institutions must embrace AI to ensure students remain competitive in the global job market,” Tayebwa remarked.
Kampala International University (KIU) was undeniably at the forefront of this technological revolution. The university’s booth showcased a variety of remarkable AI-driven projects that reflected its bold vision for the future of education. Among the highlights were a rescue robot, a smart bin, and AI-powered self-help tools designed to enhance academic experiences and everyday life. These innovations were a testament to KIU’s commitment to shaping the future of education in Uganda and beyond, with AI at the heart of its academic and research initiatives.
Assoc. Prof. Eric Mabonga, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of KIU’s Western Campus, reinforced the university’s role as a leader in innovation. “As we celebrate 25 years of quality education under the theme #ExploringTheHeights, KIU continues to push the boundaries of knowledge and technology. Our innovations reflect our dedication to shaping the future of education in Uganda and beyond,” Mabonga stated with pride. He urged students to embrace emerging technologies and take full advantage of the opportunities they offer. “In this rapidly evolving digital landscape, we must harness AI and other emerging technologies to improve education outcomes and enhance our competitiveness in the global economy,” he added.
The exhibition also saw the closing ceremony led by Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Sports. Dr. Turyagyenda stressed the importance of institutions embracing AI-driven learning methodologies to enhance teaching and learning. “We must use AI to enhance education, improve teaching methods, and better prepare students for the future,” she said. Her message resonated with KIU’s vision of adapting to technological advancements to prepare students for the challenges of tomorrow’s workforce. Dr. Turyagyenda also cautioned against relying solely on AI as a shortcut. “Young people, you make up half of the population. You must develop skills to thrive in this ever-changing world. AI should be used to understand and learn, not just to copy,” she advised, urging a balanced approach to AI usage.
The exhibition highlighted the remarkable progress in Uganda’s higher education sector, with KIU standing out as one of the top seven exhibitors. The university’s innovative approach to integrating AI into education, research, and student engagement further solidified its reputation as a leader in the academic space. Mountains of the Moon University was named the overall outstanding exhibitor, but KIU’s continued focus on AI and digital transformation set a new standard for others to follow.
As Uganda’s education sector continues to evolve in response to global technological advancements, events like Education Week play a vital role in fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence. KIU’s unwavering commitment to embracing AI technologies and enhancing educational quality ensures its position as a pioneering institution in Uganda and across Africa. The university’s legacy, marked by its silver jubilee under the banner KIUAt25 – #ExploringTheHeights, is a testament to its leadership in shaping the future of higher education. With its ongoing investment in technological innovation, KIU continues to inspire future generations to reach new heights and to thrive in a technology-driven world.
