Kabale University Launches MTN Spark Hub, Pioneering Regional Innovation in Uganda

Kabale University has taken a bold step in advancing digital innovation and entrepreneurship with the official launch of the MTN Spark Hub at the university grounds. The state-of-the-art facility, equipped with 80 computers, positions Kabale University as the first institution in Uganda to host a regional innovation hub of this scale, marking a significant milestone in the country’s digital transformation agenda.

The initiative is a collaborative effort between the MTN Uganda Foundation, Centenary Technology Services Limited, and the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance. It is designed to empower young people with practical digital skills, foster innovation, and create pathways for employment and entrepreneurship across the Kigezi Region.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Amina Zawedde, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, emphasized the transformative potential of the hub. She noted that the initiative marks the beginning of a broader plan to roll out similar innovation centers across the country. The hub, she explained, will serve as a dynamic space where young people can collaborate, develop solutions to societal challenges, and gain globally recognized certifications.

Dr. Zawedde further encouraged youth and community members to fully utilize the facility, highlighting opportunities in digital employment, online entrepreneurship, and skills development. With a target reach of over 5,000 beneficiaries, the hub is expected to significantly contribute to socio-economic growth in the region.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joy Constance Kwesiga, emphasized the strategic importance of partnerships in driving innovation. She noted that collaboration with MTN and Centenary institutions will enhance financial inclusion by providing startups and small businesses with access to tailored financial services and seed funding.

“The Spark Hub will strengthen industry linkages and support the commercialization of research outputs, ensuring that innovation translates into real-world impact,” she stated.

Prof. Kwesiga also highlighted the university’s commitment to inclusive innovation, particularly targeting women and youth in underserved communities. She emphasized that the hub will extend entrepreneurial support to rural areas, promote evidence-based policy dialogue, and contribute to sustainable development through effective partnerships. Over the next five years, the university plans to modernize its infrastructure while strengthening research, innovation, and commercialization efforts.

Prof. William Bazeyo, a member of the MTN Uganda Foundation Board of Trustees, commended the community for its continued support, which has enabled investments in impactful initiatives like the Spark Hub. He revealed that the foundation has invested over UGX 4 billion in technology education, healthcare, and community development projects across Uganda in the past four years.

He further assured stakeholders of MTN’s commitment to sustaining the hub, including providing free internet access, maintaining equipment, and expanding resources as demand grows. “This is not just a facility—it is a long-term investment in innovation and community transformation,” he noted.

Representing Centenary Technology Services, Peter Kahiigi highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships in unlocking opportunities. He encouraged students and community members to leverage the hub’s resources to enhance their academic and professional growth.

On the academic front, Assoc. Prof. Businge Phelix Mbabazi detailed the journey leading to the hub’s establishment. He noted that the initiative builds on an existing collaboration with the Ministry of ICT, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding. Following stakeholder engagements and technical assessments, the facility was set up in December 2025 and has already hosted innovation programs, including a national ICT accelerator that trained 37 entrepreneurs and produced 15 innovation teams.

He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to continuous training, cybersecurity awareness, and expanding community outreach programs through the hub.

Mable Kayima described the hub as a unique innovation space rather than a conventional computer lab, emphasizing its role in promoting collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving. She revealed plans to replicate similar hubs at other institutions, including Busitema University, Gulu University, and Soroti University.

Student leadership and the wider community also welcomed the initiative. Justus Kyarikunda Drake applauded the partnership for creating opportunities for innovation and skills development, while ICT student Kyomugisha Evelyn expressed optimism about improved access to practical learning resources. Local community leader Katushabe Pamellah commended the university’s continued contribution to regional development.

The launch of the MTN Spark Hub aligns with Kabale University’s broader vision of expanding its academic and research footprint. Recent milestones include a partnership with the National Forestry Authority to establish a research hub at Echuya Forest and the acquisition of a new campus in Kisoro to support health education programs.

As Kabale University continues to grow as a center of excellence, the MTN Spark Hub stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in driving innovation, empowering communities, and shaping a digitally inclusive future for Uganda.