presidential initiative projects annual report 2013
TRANSCRIPT
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MAKERERE UNIVERSITY
PRESIDENTIAL INITIATIVE ON SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY PROJECTS ANNUAL REPORT FY 2012/13
FY 2012/13
OCTOBER 2013
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INTRODUCTION
The Presidential Initiative on Science and Technology was started purposefully to enhance the
development of science and research in the country. The initiative works through various bodies
including the Uganda Industrial Research Institute (UIRI), the Uganda National Council of
Science and Technology (UNCST) and other various research stations across the country
including Makerere University. Makerere University has since 2010/11 been operating
innovative projects under the Presidential initiative. The units supported under the initiative
include the College of Engineering, Design Art and Technology (CEDAT), the College of
Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES), specifically the School of Food Technology,
Nutrition and Bio-engineering and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources &
Bio-security (COVAB).
The initiative supports the university’s main priorities in the area of research and innovation as
defined in light of the scientific challenges and the role of universities as change agents in the
economic development of the country. The Presidential Initiative has continued to benefit the
University by contributing much to its core functions and supporting the two overriding
principles of;
A research driven university where research and teaching and learning are mutually
reinforcing; and
Knowledge transfer partnerships and networking where knowledge production and
transfer is two way traffic between the University and public and private sectors
The College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) has eleven projects on
Technological innovations including the rehabilitation and modernization of laboratories. These
projects focus on increased relevance and practical experience from graduates; improved
university relationship with all sectors of industries and private sector; development of online
laboratories and utilization of indigenous materials in the production of home based products.
The College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) has a fully fledged Food
Technology and Business Incubation Centre (FTBIC) and the College of Veterinary Medicine,
Animal Resources and Bio-security (COVAB) is implementing the alternative model of higher
education of promoting skills for Production, Employment and Development in the Animal
Industry (SPEDA) among Post-Secondary School Leavers through academic-community-public-
private partnerships to translate science and education into livelihoods and inclusive economic
growth.
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2.1 College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Food Technology and Business Incubation Centre (FTBIC)
The FTBIC as a success centre for promoting entrepreneurship continues to offer opportunities
for small scale processors to obtain technical support in food processing, marketing and
management from the University. A number of food value addition technologies have been
developed and adopted by enterprises. Under the projects four components that are in line with
the overall goal and objectives of the technology and incubation centre, FTBIC has nurtured and
sustained new and existing food and allied businesses through innovative research, practical
solutions, linkages, entrepreneurship development and outreach leading to wealth creation and
nutritional enhancement.
The centre has improved quality of graduates due to exposure and offering practical training of
students on the state of art equipment that has been procured under the Presidential initiative.
This has also improved research output by academic staff and added to visibility of the
University. Through FTBIC, the University can relate to the Private sector on equal footing and
contributing directly to economic development and transformation. The centre was the best
services exhibitor at the UMA trade Fair 2012 and the mother college (CAES) was the best
overall exhibitor at the Agric. Show 2011 and 2013. It has also pioneered field mango processing
in West Nile and field processing of tomatoes in Nakaseke
2.2 Procurement and Installation of Machinery and equipment
The previous budgets equipped the centre with the meat, dairy and fruit processing lines and the
analytical equipment for assessing the quality of food products. In the FY 2012/13, the Centre
continued to equip the pilot plant to expand processing capacity. The Food Processing Center
was equipped with machinery to boost research, incubation services and support to SMEs. The
Centre procured and installed a mobile fruit processing plant to facilitate processing of fruits
from production areas, the gable packaging line and a high capacity pulper. The mobile fruit
processing plant was piloted in West Nile for field mango processing and Nakaseke for field
processing of tomatoes. The centre is also in the process of procuring the steam boiler and the
specifications have already been prepared. The procurement of these equipments offers a
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platform for students to venture into entrepreneurship. It has enabled incubatees with technical
support to boost their capacity in production and development of new food value addition
enterprises with commercialized products that have presence in leading retail outlets in the
Country. These facilities serve staff, incubatees and the students.
The Processing lines and supportive
laboratories at the centre include the
following:
Fruit and veg. processing line
Dairy line
Meat line
Food Safety and Quality assurance labs
Cereals processing equipment
(extruder)
Mobile fruit processor
Dairy processing line Meat processing line
Analytical Laboratory equipment
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2.3 Expansion of incubator space and capacity
The construction of the FTBIC centre has progressed slowly to the roofing level. This sub
component has had several challenges ranging from land wrangles and the contractors. Whereas
the construction FTBIC centre initially was interrupted by land wrangles between the University
and individual claimants, the slow pace of the contractor has affected the progress of this project.
The project is expected to be completed by end of year.
2.4 Incubation services
The incubation services has continued to focus on commercial production of value added foods
based on technologies developed through student and staff research. The Centre has Enterprises
undergoing incubation some of which have reached the growth phase. The Admission
requirements for incubatees is based on presentation of a business plan and is open to all
graduates.
The incubator capacity is now15 incubatees (enterprises) at a time. The centre has graduated 4
businesses and 12 Incubatee Enterprises will be graduated by end of the year. The centre is also
supporting 10 virtual incubates and there are 15 ongoing R&D projects. The enterprises are
producing a combined 26 different products being marketed in some of the biggest supermarket
chains in Kampala. The demand for some of the products is above the capacity of Incubator
processing lines. This is a good indicator for the enterprises as they set for graduation. A range of
Mobile fruit processor
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products have been added on the market including breakfast cereal, weaning porridge and
instance bean sauce. The Centre has a memorandum of understanding with the Police and UPDF
to produce food rations. The enterprise developments include the following:
• Dawn Industries Ltd fruit juice processing Dawn Brand
• Samarlina Beverages Ltd fruit juice processing Brisk Brand
• Choice Cuts Beef processing, Choice Cuts, Ntalike brands
• Nutreal Ltd Cereal/Legume processing Nutreal brand
• House of Russa Ltd special fermented drinks Omulondo brand
• Jossy Foods Ltd juices Pinnacle brand
• Food &Nutrition Solutions Ltd, Campus brand.
• Lisha Foods Ltd Cocktail juices and flavours Amani brand
• Hamko Foods Ltd Canned foods Hamko brand
• Smart Foods Ltd Soya products Smarrt brand
• Jordanah Foods Ltd Cocktail juices Jordanah brand
2.5 Knowledge transfer partnerships
The Centre has contributed to building national human capacity in agro-processing, value-
addition and entrepreneurship activities. The Centre has continued to partner with other
organisations to impart skills for animal and plant food value chains. The skills training program
include Bakery, Dairy (Yoghurt, Ice Cream, Cheese, Butter), Fruit and vegetable processing
(Juices, Jams and jellies, Sauces, Pickles) for both youth and women and for both on campus and
off Campus. The centre has trained over 600 people and 12 of the trainees have reported back
having started their own businesses.
The centre has participated in a number of local, national and international exhibitions and fairs
including;
National agricultural show organized by National farmers’ federation
Science week exhibition organized by NCST
Cerebrating 90 years of Makerere University
UMA Trade Fair October 2012.
EAC JAMAFEST in Kigali Rwanda unde the EAC cultural festival
The UIA SME exhibition in Mbale 21st -23
rd February 2013
Nationally, the Centre won the award for the best exhibitor (services) in the UMA trade fair
2012.
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Participants and their products
2.6 Technology development
The R&D has continued to focus on developing products for the market. It involves both
undergraduate and graduate students and it is also based on both teams and individual projects.
So far there are 15 individual R&D projects on going. The team based projects are working on
Fermented Foods project in Food Technology and Nutrition (FT&N) and designing and
fabrication of an affordable liquid-food Pasteurizer. This is expected to produce more new
technologies and deliver more interesting products for incubation and the market
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2. College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT)
The College has continued to boost technological education and innovation for Uganda’s
Industrialization and the benefits have been recognized as many undergraduate students have
produced very interesting prototypes of machines and implements, while PhD students and
senior researchers have made innovations with the potential for transformation of our societies,
especially the rural communities. The initiative has improved the training of engineering human
resource with relevant skills, improved research infrastructure, developed business incubation
facilities to support commercialization of student and staff ideas and enhanced the understanding
and appreciation of the role of science and technology in the development process, especially
among the young generation.
The College has ten innovative projects that continue to target human resource development,
transfer of technologies to communities, and research to increase production.
2.1 Rehabilitation and Modernization of Laboratories
The college has modernised and equipped its laboratories including the online laboratories as
indicated in the table below;
Functional laboratory and research infrastructure CEDAT
Department Name of
Laboratory Equipment Planned Equipment Purchased
Architecture Architecture Studios
Drawing boards, pin-up
boards, plotter, saw drill
press, Wood curving set, Steel
bench Vice machine, Desktop
computers
31 Drawing boards, 48 pin-up boards, plotter, 1 drill
press, 10 Wood curving sets, 1 Steel bench Vice
machine, 6 Desktop computers
Geomatics
And Land
Management
3 Survey Total Stations, 3 Electronic Theodolite, 2
Digital Levels, 1 Survey Grade Differential GPS, 8
Survey Steel Bands, 5 Stereoscopes, 1 A1 Digitiser,
30 CAD Survey Processing Software(Upgrade), 5
Image Processing Software(ErDAS Imagine)
ICT
Equipment
Student Computer
Labs, Conference
Hall, Staff Offices
Computer Terminals, Desktop
Computers, Laptops,
Workstations, Servers, Racks
Lab Accessories (Cabling, Connectors, Toolkits,
Testers, Power Cords, Power Distribution Units,
Storage Media, Blowers)
Computer Memory (50 Pcs)
2 Air Conditioners
Projector Mounting Kits
UPS
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Procurement Report under the Presidential Initiative Project
The Department of Architecture and Physical Planning purchased the following items for the
financial year 2012/2013 as indicated in the table below. Total Allocation for the year was Shs.
142,474,000/=.
Items for purchase Remarks Challenges
First Quarter
A photocopying machine (1No.)
Computers for Graphic Designs for
the Computer Lab (7No.)
UPS for the Computer Lab for
Design work (10 No.)
Procured and in use
Procured and in use
Procured and in use
-
-
-
Second Quarter
Interactive SMART boards (3No.)
Stand alone plain double sided
architectural project display boards
size (1200X3600mm) (8 No.)
Supplied but not yet installed
Contract was awarded but items not
yet supplied
There are issues with the
specs to be resolved with
the suppler
Supplier is having issues
with the procurement of
the items to be supplied
from Nairobi.
Third Quarter
Interactive SMART boards (2No.)
Flat files 10 Drawer Steel inside
(403/4”X28
3/8”X15
3/8”) for storing
architectural drawings (15 No.).
Stand alone plain double sided
architectural project display boards
size (1200X3600mm) (5 Nos)
Supplied but not yet installed
Contract was awarded but items not
yet supplied
Contract was awarded but items not
yet supplied
There are issues with the
specs to be resolved with
the suppler
Supplier has delayed to
supply the items. No
concrete reason has been
given.
Supplier is having issues
with the procurement of
the items to be supplied
from Nairobi.
Fourth Quarter
Stand alone plain double sided
architectural project display boards
size (1200X3600mm) (15 No.)
Flat files 10 Drawer Steel inside
(403/4”X28
3/8”X15
3/8”) for storing
architectural drawings (12 No.).
Contract was awarded but items not
yet supplied
Contract was awarded but items not
yet supplied
Supplier is having issues
with the procurement of
the items to be supplied
from Nairobi.
Supplier has delayed to
supply the items. No
concrete reason has been
given.
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The Status of Laboratories in the College has tremendously improved as shown in the photos
below;
The Environmental Engineering Laboratory Equipped
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Telecom Laboratory
Public Health Laboratory
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2.2 I-Labs Project
The iLabs Project has continued to undertake research in the development and deployment of
iLabs (Internet Laboratories) to support curricula not only for the college but has expanded its
activities to include outreach to secondary schools to promote technology incubation and
problem- based learning, development of interactive multimedia courseware to support the basic
science curricula in secondary schools and extension of iLabs to other public Universities in
Uganda. The promotion of science and technology innovation in secondary schools is aimed at
stimulating younger minds to take on related careers at an early age.
In the FY 2012/13 the project held three regional Science and Technology Innovation Challenges
(STIC) for the Central, Northern and Western Regions, as well as the Grand National Challenge
and conducted 11 preparatory training workshops in 11 schools in preparation for the science and
technology innovation challenges for secondary schools. The students under the project made
robots including the famous Bomb Detector and Disassembling Robot. The project also
conducted an 8 week training programme on phone electronics and iLab infrastructure for
students from Makerere and Busitema universities. Several iLabs were also deployed for use in
curricula.
The project Acquired Hardware for school robotics projects, it held robotics training workshops
in 4 schools in Eastern and Central Uganda in preparation for the Science and Technology
Innovations Challenge, 2013. The years’ Science and Technology Innovations Challenge (STIC,
2013) featured EZ robotics where iLabs@MAK facilitated Namilyango College and Makerere
College School to purchase.
The EZ Robotics Kit Components
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The project continued research in Development of the PEARL Smartphone which is the first
locally manufactured smart phone dubbed the PEARL smart mobile phone. The phone will be an
output of the final year research by a team of six undergraduate students on the Project Team,
whose research is fully funded by the project. Three fourth year researches geared towards
development of the Power Management Module, the Application Processor and the Radio
Frequency Module were concluded. Industrial design of the phone commenced, alongside
refinement of the phone Printed Circuit Board. The industrial design will inform the physical,
technical and requisite user experience specifications.
3D Visualization of the PEARL Smartphone
Training Workshops in Schools
As part of the ongoing effort to promote science and technology incubation through problem
based learning in Ugandan secondary schools, the iLabs@MAK Project continued training
workshops in schools, targeting the STIC. The introductory
training workshop was held at Jinja Senior Secondary
School. The school already had an NXT kit provided by
iLabs@MAK. An engineering design club was instituted
and various project ideas were discussed, leaving the
students on a firm ground to start the design and
implementation. A follow up workshop was conducted on
2nd
August, 2013. Training workshops were held twice at
Namilyango College (5th
April and 2nd
July), Makerere
College (July 24th
) and twice Mt. St. Mary’s Namagunga
(30th
April and 18th
June). The workshops focused on progress via design and implementation of
the projects for the STIC, 2013.
From June-August 2012, the iLabs@MAK conducted an intensive industrial training Program
involving 15 students from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering of MAK and
the Department of Computer Engineering of Busitema University. The training involved working
with iLabs infrastructure (software and hardware), embedded systems engineering, cellular
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communications, mobile phone electronics and web engineering. The training equiped the
students with skills required in their research for the development of the smart mobile phone.
Participation in the Annual Exhibitions
The Project participated in exhibitions, including the MAK@90, National Science Careers Expo
during the National Science Week organized by Uganda National Council for Science and
Technology (UNCST), and the annual CEDAT open day.
It also participated in the Roboken East African Robotics Competition, the Resilient Africa
Network Exhibition. The iLabs@MAK collaborated with Nakawa Vocational Institute to
participate in the annual Roboken
Robotics Competition which took place in
Nairobi, Kenya from May 17-22, 2012.
iLabs@MAK is also playing a crucial role
in instituting and training robotics
applications at Nakawa Vocational
Institute. The team came runners up in the
Higher Institutions Category.
Participation in the Roboken Competition
iLabs@MAK developed a prototype of an
automatic disinfection chamber for use
during epidemics such as Ebola and Marburg, to save the lives of health personnel which was
exhibited at the Launch of the USAID –Makerere University Resilient Africa Network. The
project was the overall best exhibit.
The project showcased hardware for remote laboratories and robotics applications at the
exhibition held at Makerere University in commemoration of 50 Years of University of East
Africa Exhibition, 29/06/2013.
The project has continued to harness collaboration with Huawei Technologies in preparations for
the STIC, 2013. Huawei has committed USD 20,000 towards this year’s event, to be channeled
into prizes for the winners as well as event publicity.
2.3 Research into adoption of solar and other energy development technologies
The project carried out a technical and business training of solar PV technicians. The training
was carried out in Soroti (79 participants), Kumi (94 participants) and Kampala / Rubaga (45
participants). It also launched the Solar Energy Kiosk/Field Laboratory in Kabanga, Mukono
District and carried out Solar Lamps Campaign there. It also did an analysis of the causes of
failure of pico-PV products in Kabanga. Quality tests were carried out on the Foresolar lantern
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and energy Audit was carried out at Jesa Diary Farm to advise on an appropriate solar system to
power the diary farm.
The project carried out quality tests of the Firefly 10 mobile, Solux-LED-50 and ASE solar
lanterns. It has also initiated talks with Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) to carry
out quality tests of solar photovoltaic products in the CREEC's Solar Laboratory. It carried out
awareness campaign of solar lamps technology in Kampala under the 'Solar Lamps for Health
and Wealth' campaign and also set up a Solar School Club in Kaliiro Technical Institute in
partnership with Energy Explorerz campaign, GIZ.
2.4 Vehicle Design Project
After officially unveiling the Kiira EV, the Vehicle Design Project continued with its research on
Kiira EV SMACK to address improvements needed to be made on the Kiira EV prototype to
enable its commercialization and industrialization. All requirements for this improvement have
been drawn. Architectures to act as blueprints for construction of the different systems have been
drafted. Improvements on the body, interior chassis and the inclusion of an on-board engine have
also been addressed.
The three different versions of the Kiira EV SMACK have been envisaged as shown below.
Whereas the release of the Kiira EV was just but the tip of an iceberg, the CRTT team started
working towards the realization of the Kayoola Solar Electric Bus. Progressive work has been
done on the Kayoola prototype development. Design work is being undertaken for the
mechanical and electrical systems, in-vehicle communication and control network, as well as
development of the artistic impressions for the exterior and interior design. The procurement of
the various components for the different subsystems of the bus has been done and others are
being initiated.
Body and Interior Design Work
The face of the bus was redesigned to accommodate the change from one full windscreen to a
split one. This is because one full windshield of the desired length and breadth is not readily
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available on the market. The face was also adjusted to fit the front lights that were identified for
use.
Renders for the Different Views of Kayoola Exterior Body
The Kayoola Bus is targeted to be used for Executive and the interior has been designed
accordingly. KAYOOLA is expected to be released in mid next year.
Production-Ready Kayoola Passenger Cabin Design
2.5 Regional Industrial Parks Programme
Under this progamme, the college hosted the Orange Telecom sponsored Mobile Applications
competition and awards at Makerere University on 2nd
August 2012. This was a pre-cursor to the
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Vice Chancellor’s Innovation Hubs to identify innovations from Universities which can become
SMEs and qualify for incubation in the ICT. There have been efforts to secure land in in
Kampala, Masindi, Kasese, Mbale and Soroti. The project is also in negotiations with Housing
Finance bank for construction finance. Meanwhile the business plan for Kasese, Kabarole SME
business park have been drawn, a feasibility studies for both Mbale and Soroti have been drafted
and a concept for 33 Regional Community Industrial Parks have been submitted for funding to
H.E. President. The project also organised a stakeholders’ workshop in conjunction with the
Makerere University Private Sector Forum where 40 eminent persons attended.
2.6 Academic Records Management System (ARMS) Project
In its continued effort to meet the information support needs of Higher Education Institutions,
the ARMS Project has been incubating home grown computer systems e-Governance, e-Health
and e-Commerce by focusing on development of a comprehensive user-centric Academic
Records Management System to support the university’s logical and physical academic
infrastructure using state-of-the-art technologies and current generation industrial aesthetics. It
has also supported the provision of relevant learning experiences for students in the School of
Engineering at the University through Project-Based Learning. The project has registered the
following achievements.
Academic Records Management System (ARMS):
The project developed an end-2-end Academic Records Management System (ARMS) for
Higher Education Institutions and is ready for commercialization.
Uganda Police Force Crime Records Management System (CRMS):
The project developed a fully fledged Crime Records Management System for Uganda Police
Force and this has been deployed at all Police Division Headquarters in Kampala Metropolitan
Police.
Online Student Evaluation of Teaching (OSET):
The project deployed ARMS Online Student Evaluation of Teaching Module in six (6) colleges
of Makerere University to support the student evaluation of teaching activity. The colleges that
have benefited include College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), College
of Business and Management Studies (CoBAMS), College of Health Sciences (MakCHS),
College of Natural Sciences (CONAS), College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
(CAES) and the College of Computing and Information Sciences (COCIS).
Interpol Certification Information System:
The project developed a Certification Information System for the Interpol National Central
Bureau Kampala. The system is used for issuing and managing Certificates of Good Conduct.
SIU Case File Management System:
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The project developed a Case File Management System for the Special Investigations Unit of the
Uganda Police Force. This was before the development of an integrated Crime Records
Management System.
Health Information System:
The project developed a comprehensive Health Information System Architecture. This was done
under the ICT4MPOWER Project with the Ministry of Health.
Energy Specification:
The project developed an Energy Specification for Health Centres in Isingiro District, under the
ICT4MPOWER Project with the Ministry of Health.
Internship & Graduate Research Assistantships
The ARMS Project has trained forty seven (47) students through providing internship
opportunities and guiding final year project research. Over the years, some of these students have
been retained after graduation to champion the development of home grown computer systems
and to provide mentorship to the younger generation. A number of publications have also come
out of the work done by the members of the ARMS Project.
The project presented a paper at the ICERI 2012 in Madrid Spain and the author was appointed
member of the Scientific Advisory Board of the EDULEARN 2013, Barcelona Spain. The
ARMS Student Interns participated in Huwaei Mobile Applications Challenge and their Act,
destination Africa was voted best.
2.7 Innovation Systems and Clusters Programme
In its efforts to make Uganda’s businesses more competitive locally and globally, through
innovations and Cluster Initiatives, the Innovation Systems and Clusters Programme-Uganda
(ISCP-U) undertook the following activities
Mpigi Coffee Cluster Local Facilitator Training
A two day Local Facilitator Training course in Cluster Development and Management aimed at
strengthening the development of Cluster Initiatives under the Innovation Systems and Clusters
Programme was organized in Mpigi and twenty one members of the Mpigi Coffee Cluster
participated. The training was part of the early formation stages of a Cluster designed to address
critical Cluster strategic areas which are vital in providing strategic direction for the Individual
Cluster Initiatives and the Programme as a whole. Participants included coffee farmers,
government officials, and academia. According to Mpigi Private Sector Forum, there are over
2000 coffee farmers in greater Masaka region and the coffee sector is only second to Banana
farming due to the difficulties faced like absence of modern seedlings, processing capacity and
low prices.
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a) Civil Society - Private Sector Partnership
ISCP-U also participated in the launch of the Smart Partnership of both the Civil Society Sector
and the Private sector which took place at UMA Show grounds, Lugogo. The Civil society-
Private sector forum is expected to bring with it benefits of Joint advocacy on common
challenges including; Increasing private sector voices, Identifying creative solutions to private
sector concerns and promoting problem-oriented and demand driven research policy. The civil
society-private sector forum is a collaborative effort designed to encourage civil society –private
sector participation in developing solutions to current challenges of youth unemployment,
standard setting, voice and space and a common frame work for dialogue with the government
b) Leather Cluster to Access High Quality Leather Dies
ISCP-U in collaboration with the Centre for Technology Design and Development and a
Mechanical Engineering student Matovu Alexander are utilizing the opportunity to develop
quality leather dies using the CNC machine. The machine has assisted the leather cluster in
producing good and high quality products able to compete favorably both locally and
internationally. The leather cluster had faced a number of challenges in producing their products
including; Importation of poor quality dies, unclear stamped logos, lack of quick access to
leather making die machine to fasten up the process of producing their products.
c) Linkage of Egg Hatchery Innovator and Poultry Farmer to the Centre for Technology
Design and Development
ISCP-U participated in linking a local entrepreneur involved in poultry farming and technical
training to Centre for Technology Design and Development in the interest of testing, and up
scaling his innovation. The entrepreneur Mr. Kalibbala M has successfully invented an egg-
hatchery that requires further improvement with the input of the academia.
d) Basketry Cluster Initiative: “Basketry Cluster Action Team”
The Basketry Cluster Action Team (CAT) on Technical Skills Development and Training within
the Cluster businesses carried out their first activities towards achieving the team’s objectives.
The team selected Baskets (food and fruit, laundry, decorative) as the first cluster product of
specialisation as well as the various natural colors, dyes and source-plant material that provide a
large potential market for the cluster firms. The emphasis was laid on larger scale production and
acquisition of plant material for the selected plants, training in specific basket designs and
production of the natural dyes. This specialisation is viewed as an avenue for enhancing quality,
adding value and competitiveness of the cluster products on the existing local and international
markets more than before.
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e) Baseline Study of the Cassava Cluster in Uganda
In collaboration with the Common Market for East and Southern Africa (COMESA) the
Innovation Systems and Clusters Programme-Uganda (ISCP-U) undertook a profiling exercise/
baseline study as an initial implementation activity to the initiation of a Cassava Cluster in
Uganda based on the Programme’s experience and expertise in Uganda’s clustering process.
f) Participation in 15th
TCI (The Competitiveness Institute) Annual Global Conference
ISCP-U was one of the 2 African countries that participated in the TCI Global Conference 2012
held in Spain. TCI Network is the global practitioners’ network for competitiveness, clusters and
innovation and an international professional association for economic development through a
cluster approach. The TCI conferences bring together experts in the field and provide
opportunities for networking and exchange of best practices around clusters and economic
development. TCI is a non-profit, non-governmental organization, open to economic
development practitioners working in the field of clusters and with expertise in competitiveness
support and innovation programs. TCI mission is to promote the cluster concept, improve
methodologies and raise professional standards in the field, with the final aim of improving
living standards and local competitiveness of regions throughout the world.
2.8 Technology Development and Transfer Centre
Students’ sponsorships
The centre continued to nurture students’ innovations into profitable and fruitful business
enterprises. The center provided funds to students in the final year of their study to do research
and or construction of projects. Students submitted their reports and prototypes to the center
office. One of the projects (bucket lift water pump) was installed on a farm in Nakasongola for
demonstration and testing purposes. The ideas behind students’ projects were to provision of
community based solutions. The next level of the project is the application of the prototypes in a
real time environment to enable testing, applying and transfer of the technology in the
community.
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The project prototypes done were operational and are now ready for commercialization. These
included:
Maize threshing Machine Improved Barbeque Grill
Engine Run Pesticide machine Road Sweeping Machine
Bucket lift pump set up on site Man driving the wheel to draw water
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Water being collected from the dam
Biogas Cleaning System at Nana Hostels on experiments
Improved assembly positioning mechanism, with
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Swivel Mechanism
Wind Turbine Research
The research focused on the development of model
designs for the hybrid wind turbine. The turbine is
both run on wind and solar energy. The project did
preliminary study visits have been done to Lugazi
UPDF engineering brigade in Lugazi along
Kampala Jinja road, Kyabakuza model farm along
Masaka-Mbarara road, Nakasongola model farm
and other equipment suplliers to understand the
knowledge and research dynamics of wind turbines
as a result the team was able to finally designe the
profiles of the wind turbine system.
Wind Turbine at Lugazi
Wind Turbine in Nakasongola Wind power on a farm in Kyabakuza
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Research team with UPDF mgt. and their research group
2.9 Irrigation Project,
The Low Cost Irrigation Project has been working on a low cost pump for farmers in the rural
areas to produce crops all year round. The project has manufactured and tested 10 prototypes of
5 models of Makpumps. It also made a proto-type of a DC motor driven by solar energy. In
addition to this, the project is now designing the Makengine to drive the pumps. Demonstrations
of the Makpumps were done in Eastern Uganda and the project has designed irrigation schemes
for 10 farmers and demonstrated pumps in Wakiso District. The project also submitted a concept
to establish a pump manufacturing factory to H.E. President.
2.10 MakaPads Project
The project has gone beyond the pilot stage/proof of concept on several sectors of society to
production. The project started with production of packaging bags in three different designs i.e.
MakaPads without wings Super Absorbent, MakaPads with wings Normal Absorbent and
MakaPads with wings Super Absorbent. The multi coloured MakaPads were distributed to a total
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of 20 shops in different places i.e. Kireka, Kikuubo, Kawempe, Ggaba, Natete, Matuga, Kagoma
and Kalerwe and supermarkets to test the open market and also asses its competitiveness with
imported brands of sanitary pads on the open market. The project received positive feedback
from the stakeholders.
To promote MakaPads to various stakeholders, the
project produced 4,800 packets of MakaPads
which were distributed to different schools to
create awareness of MakaPads as a new product.
The schools that benefited from this exercise
were; Nakanyonyi Girls School, Wairaka College,
Wanyange Girls Jinja and Jinja Secondary School.
The project distributed MakaPads in 8 UPE
schools per district benefiting 100 pupils per
school and each received a pack of 12 packets and
a pair of panties. In Soroti district, Eastern Uganda
the schools that benefited included, Awoja,
Owalei, Moruapesur, Soroti Islamic,
Pioneer, Nakatunya, Oderai & Bamba
Primary schools. In Oyam district,
Northern Uganda the schools were
Kamdini, Obang, Omwa Dem, Aleny,
Aminormir, Barmwony, Ayomapwano &
Oyoe Primary schools.
The research for MakaPads has
progressed into designing of the Maternity
Bed Pads. These have been tested in
selected hospitals and maternity clinics
namely; Mulago Medical Centre Kitebi,
Lions Medical and Laboratory Services in Kitebi, Kagoma Maternity clinic, Makindye Medical
Centre, Cure Medical centre Salaama and in Wakiso district. The distribution of Maternity Bed
Pads will be continuous for more months to evaluate the performance of Bed Pads.
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Distribution of MakaPads to various schools in Jinja district.
Students of Wanyange Girls Secondary School receive MakaPads Packets.
Students of Jinja Secondary School display MakaPads packets
Pupils from Fort Portal district receive MakaPads and a senior woman teacher addressing pupils
Production of BEDPADS and Distribution in Some Clinics
Making of Bed Pads at Kwempe factory
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Packaging of Bed Pads in progress at the factory
BedPads packed in a box for distribution Researcher explains how to use BedPads
Nurses receive BedPads for testing on mothers.
Researchers explain to nurses how to use Bed Pads & distribute some packets
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Some of the clinics that distribute BedPads to Mothers
Worn out drying rack – previous design Improved drying rack – current design
Sun drying papyrus absorbent on improved drying racks at Masooli & Kyaka sites respectively
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Previous absorbent working station Improved absorbent working stations at Masooli & Soroti
respectively
Improved design of absorbent making stations at Kyaka MakaPads production unit in Kyegegwa district
Dripping frames for repair Repairing frames in progress Display of already repaired frames
MakaPads packets & panties distributed to pupils from selected schools within Soroti district.
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MakaPads packets & panties donated to pupils from selected schools within Oyam district.
2.11 Community Wireless Resource Centre
The Community Wireless Resource Centre (CWRC) arose out of the need to provide or enhance
sustainable Internet connectivity infrastructure, particularly in rural or under-served areas in
Uganda, by means of wireless technology. The CWRC has focused on the potential of cognitive
“smart” radio in promoting affordable connectivity and effective radio resource utilization. So
far, the CWRC conducted an Industrial Training session from the period June to September 2012
in which seven students participated. Two of these were from Ndejje University and the rest
from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Makerere University. The training
focused on wireless communication networks and techniques with the selected modules/topics.
The CWRC participated in the National Conference on Communications (NCC 2012). The NCC
is a national annual conference organized by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC)
and the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Makerere Univsersity.
The NCC provides students, researchers, developers, and practitioners with a platform to address
new research challenges, share solutions and discuss issues relevant to the communications
sector of Uganda. The NCC also host keynote and invited speakers to share their views on
communications from regulation, social-economic, political and gender perspectives. The
CWRC also participated in a two day conference on Exploring Technology for National
Development at Kampala Serena Hotel on 10th – 11th
September 2012 during which the CWRC
presented one of its papers on Impact of cognitive radio on cooperative network subscriber base
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The project researched and documented the GPS RF front-end requirements specifications and
identified hardware for the CRCNs i.e USRPs - Universal Software Radio Peripherals, drafted a
proposal for a SIDA research grant to purchase USRPs, hosted a meeting with a team from
National Instruments (NI) for possible collaborations and partnerships regarding USRP hardware
and LAbView software utilizations, identified and acquired Cognitive Radion Cognitive
Network - Network Simulator 2 (CRCN NS 2) software for cognitive radio simulations on
CWRC test bed and documented all research by CWRC team regarding cognitive radio
simulation on CWRC testbed
2.12 The Centre for Research in Transportation Technologies (CRTT)
The Centre for Research in Transportation Technologies (CRTT) activities in FY 2012/2013
primarily were addressing the Kayoola Electric Solar Bus and improving the KIIRA EV for
Commercialization, the Construction and Operationalization of the CRTT. The Kayoola Electric
Solar Bus and improving the KIIRA EV have already been highlighted under the vehicle design
project. The CRTT currently operates on Plot 13 Kimera Road, Ntinda. The new offices were
furnished to handle the centre operations. The centre also constructed a prototyping site at the
CEDAT old building.
Construction of the CRTT
The identification of the particular space required in the different departments is still ongoing.
The centre will have State-of-the-Art facilities for Research and Development of Transport
Solutions including Design Studios and offices. It will also be a propagation ground for cutting
edge innovations in the development of green transportation solutions in Uganda, Africa, and the
world over. The architectural designs for the centre have been done and implementation only
awaits allocation of land for the construction.
The operational and administrative structure of CRTT operates under four main departments
with each department comprising of researchers, research assistants, and students.
Vehicle Electronics and Information Systems (VEIS),
Powertrain and Charging Infrastructure (PTCI),
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Industrial Design and
Mechanical Systems,
Training and Capacity Development
CRTT has conducted a number of outreach programmes and also conducted and participated in
training sessions to enhance staff skills and inspiring younger generation to take on innovations
in the field of green transport solutions. A CRTT delegation from the Vehicle Electronics and
Information Systems and Powertrain, and Charging Infrastructure team, attended a 3-day training
in advanced LabVIEW, a graphical programming language conducted by National Instruments at
CEDAT. This was a hands on training program in writing programs in the graphical
programming environment that equipped the team with skills that are transferable to other
programming languages.
Class Sessions: Left - Team with Instructor and Classmates; Right–One of the Programs Written
CRTT Mentorship Programme
CRTT has taken on mentorship of children at an early age so as to promote science and
technology. This unique programme is attended by students in their term holidays. Students get
hands-on experience in using computer tools in research, design of a car using a computer tool –
Paint, and making wire models and technical documentation.
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Students Making a Wire Model of a Sedan Car at the CRTT Premises
A Completed Wire Model
Internship Programme
The CRTT held an Eight-Month
Internship Programme beginning
December 2012 with a team of
eleven (11) former St. Mary’s
College Kisubi (SMACK) students.
The students who had earlier
worked on the SMART Hybrid Car
Project worked on the KIIRA-EV
SMACK Project through their
Vacation. The students were
involved intensely in introductory
sessions to equip and prepare them
for productive work. Industrial Design Interns Make a Concept for the SMACK Interior
A team from St. Mary’s College Kisubi shared the SMART Hybrid Car Concept that was
presented at the 2nd
Annual Science and Technology Innovations Challenge (STIC) with the
College. STIC is an initiative by the iLabs@MAK Project to promote science and technology
innovation in secondary schools. A presentation was made to CRTT to illustrate the functionality
of the car and the different SMART features integrated into it.
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SMACK Students Present the SMART Hybrid CAR Robot Model
CRTT Team with the SMACK Students
CRTT also held the Junior Scientifique Café at St. Kizito Secondary School on 24th
of October
2012. During the event, students were updated on the ongoing electric car research in Uganda
and in other parts of the world, and the advantages and disadvantages of this technology.
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Mr. Asiimwe Facilitates Students at the Scientifique Café at St. Kizito S.S.S Bugolobi
Conferences, Exhibitions and Publicity
CRTT was also actively involved in various public events in a drive to disseminate her research
findings regarding the
various undertakings.
Participation in these
events helps the Centre in
getting feedback from the
public and ideas on how
to go about the
improvements that can be
made to the current
designs at hand. CRTT
participated at the 2nd
Annual Open Day for the
CEDAT Open Day 2012.
Mr. Asiimwe Facilitates Students at the Scientifique Café at the Turkish Light Academy in Kajjansi
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Junior Africa Presents the Kayoola Solar Bus Model to the Minister of Education
Students explain the Solar Contribution in Range Extension at Second Annual CEDAT Open Day
The CRTT exhibited the KIIRA-EV at the 2012 Uganda International Trade (UITF) held at the
UMA Show Grounds. The team interacted with the general public, prominent companies, media
houses, students from various secondary schools and primary schools around the country. At the
exhibition, the principle of operation of electric vehicles vis a vis conventional vehicles was the
theme of discussion.
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Mr. AkovukuExplains how the Kiira EV Batteries are Charged (Kiira EV in the background)
CRTT Team Members Inspire the Young Generation at the 2012 Trade Fair
CRTT Team Members Explain the Concept of the Electric Vehicle
CRTT also exhibited the KIIRA EV during the Uganda Independence Jubilee Celebrations. The
KIIRA EV was was very well received by both the host and visiting Heads of State, Private
Sector and the general public.
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Rehearsals for the Uganda at 50 Celebrations, Kololo Air Strip
The CRTT hosted the CNN’s Inside Africa team that was visiting entrepreneurial entities in
Uganda in November 2012. The CNN team did not only learn about the development process of
the KIIRA EV but the CRTT team proved that the electric vehicle can be driven on the road. The
findings of the CNN’s team were aired on CNN, Inside Africa from mid-December.
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CNN Inside Africa Team poses with the Kiira-EV
CRTT also received visits from South Africa’s University of Val and shared experiences of the
vehicle project can be moved from a project to a fully functional entity. In addition, the centre
hosted two representatives from National Instruments. The outcome of the visit was the
possibility of sharing a Proof of Concept (PoC) HMI (Human Machine Interface (Instrument
Cluster) for vehicles, NI intentions to employ a National Instruments Sales Person for the East
African region; and Exploring the use of NI equipment designed for in vehicle data logging and
monitoring applicable to CRTT developments.
NI Representatives with the CRTT Team
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Discussions on the Kiira EV and further partnerships with NI
CRTT team participated in the Italian week exhibition at Sheraton Hotel in Kampala in
November 2012. The CRTT delegation together with MADES YACHT and LEXEA discussed
mutual interest in working together and partnering to achieve a common goal of setting up
assembly plant in Uganda for LEXEA buses and coaches and realize the production of electrical
bus for Uganda and the neighboring region.
Presentation from MADES YACHTS and LEXEA representatives A 28 seated bus developed and built by LEXEA.
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3. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-security
The College has continued to implement the alternative model of higher education of promoting
skills for Production, Employment and Development in the Animal Industry (SPEDA) among
Post-Secondary School Leavers. The program is implemented through academic-community-
public-private partnerships to translate science and education into livelihoods and inclusive
economic growth. The University established the Africa Institute for Strategic Services and
Development (AFRISA) as an engagement platform to foster implementation of this project and
the new training model and programs. The promotion of this model is through animal resource
value chains.
3.1 Student Enrolment (SPEDA)
SPEDA has progressively improved intake of students in different animal resource value chains.
The first intake had a total of 66 students enrolling for training. The second intake had 70
students (youth) under different value chains.
In 2012/13 academic year, a total of 63
students reported for classes under the
different value chains as follows; Laboratory
(20), meat (2), fish (2), leather (7), feed (2),
apiary (2) Poultry (12), dairy (16) and 50
Agripreneurs were enrolled in Arua in
partenship with Church of Uganda- AFARD.
The students were initiated to the program starting with cross-cutting courses like
entrepreneurship & business planning.
In the 2013/14 academic year 160 students have been admitted and they all reported for studies.
Whereas the recruitment drive is continuous, enrolment is still hindered by lack of awareness
from the public, insufficient skilling infrastructure and few and expensive attachment places for
students. The project has intensified publicity of the programme through radio, TV, Brochures,
Print media and TV talk shows.
AFRISA students with staff
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Rehabilitation and expansion of facilities at Nakyesasa farm
The reconstruction and rehabilitation of
Nakyesasa farm to transform it into a
modern skills and technology centre is
ongoing. The renovation of buildings is
almost complete and extension of
electricity to the site. When completed, the
structures will be vital for operations at the
farm, including student’s residence during
practical training. Farm roads (3 Km) were
opened, graded, and culverts installed. The refurbishment of the 100,000-litre reservoir is
underway. The refurbishment project will be completed by September 2013.
Establishment of a sustainable Dairy/Nutritional value chain resource at Nakyesasa
The stock of cattle at Nakyesasa farm has continued to improve with the current herd standing at
more than 80 cows as per 30/06/2013. This is exceeding the carrying capacity of the available
grazing area. A process of procuring a number of specialized
equipment is ongoing. The project procured an agricultural Tractor and its implements. The
tractor has been utilized in tilling vast amounts of land in line with training students in
mechanized agriculture (maize for silage) under the dairy value chain. New pastures have been
planted though still insufficient for the animals.
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The second season planting of Maize (Longe-5), Soyabean and Cassava was done and the maize
and Soyabean yield were very good. The crops were harvested and are ready to be made into
animal feed. A maize crib (for post harvest processing) was constructed to preserve maize cobs.
At the College a teleconferencing
facility has been completed and
equipment that was donated is
being installed.
The refurbishment of a Biomedical
Lab facility at the college for the
Laboratory value chain is near
completion
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Financial Report