Gulu University's Vice-Chancellor, Professor George Ladah Openjuru, has urged the government to support entrepreneurial students in obtaining certification for their products. He proposed the creation of a directorate of entrepreneurship to oversee, coordinate, and back programs that encourage business creation, innovation, and skills development within the university.
Speaking on Friday during a visit by Jonard Asiimwe, the Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat, to monitor science innovations at Gulu University, Professor Openjuru emphasized that such a directorate would facilitate revenue sharing with students and help market their products effectively.
"Having a directorate of entrepreneurship will help us in revenue sharing with students and, in turn, will help to sell the products," he said. The Vice-Chancellor also disclosed that the university is currently stuck with good products that require certification for effective marketing.
The visit by Minister Asiimwe, who heads the Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat under the Office of the President, was aimed at assessing the progress of science innovations at the university. During the tour, the minister interacted with students and staff involved in various innovative projects.
Professor Openjuru's proposal highlights the growing need for universities to not only foster innovation but also provide a supportive ecosystem for turning ideas into marketable products. A directorate of entrepreneurship would serve as a bridge between academia and industry, ensuring that student innovations receive the necessary certification and exposure.
The lack of certification has been a significant hurdle for many student-led initiatives, preventing them from reaching their full potential. By addressing this issue, Gulu University hopes to set a precedent for other institutions in Uganda.
Minister Asiimwe's visit underscores the government's commitment to promoting science, technology, and innovation as drivers of national development. The collaboration between the university and the government is expected to yield tangible results, particularly in the areas of product development and commercialization.
As Gulu University continues to position itself as a hub for innovation, the call for a directorate of entrepreneurship resonates with the broader goal of empowering young people with the skills and resources they need to succeed in the competitive business landscape.
The university community has welcomed the proposal, with many expressing optimism that it will unlock new opportunities for students and contribute to the region's economic growth.
