Kabale University Scientist Joins China-Uganda Pharmaceutical Training to Advance Human Capital Development

Kabale University continues to make strides in international scientific collaboration and capacity building. Dr George Kwesiga, Head of the Department of Chemistry, has joined a team of 19 Ugandan scientists participating in the Human Capital Development Training Programme in Pharmaceutical Sciences under the China – Uganda Pharmacy Luban Workshop.

The workshop, established in 2023 by Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College (CQMPC) in partnership with Busitema University and the Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat – Office of the President (STI-OP), aims to build human capacity and foster innovation in Uganda’s pharmaceutical sector. The training runs from 25th October to 23rd November 2025 at CQMPC in Chongqing, China, and is fully sponsored under the Silk Road Programme of the Chongqing Municipal and People’s Government Mayor Scholarship for International Students, in collaboration with STI-OP.

The programme consists of five specialized modules covering:

• Pharmaceutical policy and industry trends
• Traditional Chinese medicine culture and practice
• Pharmaceutical production safety and quality control
• Pharmaceutical services and rational drug use
• Practical field visits and industrial exposure

Through these modules, participants engage in systematic instruction, exchange, and hands-on learning designed to advance pharmaceutical management, research, and development. The initiative also seeks to strengthen Uganda’s healthcare system by training participants who will, in turn, become trainers of trainers within their home institutions.

Dr Kwesiga’s participation represents a significant gain for Kabale University and the wider Western Uganda region. As one of the Ugandan trainers of trainers, he will play a vital role in enhancing research and innovation in herbal medicine development and competency-based teaching in pharmaceutical sciences. This collaboration also positions Kabale University to deepen its partnerships with STI-OP, Busitema University, and CQMPC, strengthening its role in Uganda’s growing pharmaceutical ecosystem.

The Ugandan delegation was launched by the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Dr Monica Musenero, on 22nd October 2025 at the STI-OP Headquarters in Kampala. The team is led by Dr Samuel Obakiro, Head of the Natural Products Research and Innovation Centre at Busitema University, and Ms Brenda Nakazibwe, team leader of the Pathogeny Economy at STI-OP.

Other participating institutions include Makerere University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Gulu University, Soroti University, and Kampala International University, alongside representatives from the pharmaceutical industry such as Die BioPharma Ltd.

The training officially commenced on 27th October 2025 at CQMPC with a welcome address from senior Chinese officials, including Prof. LAN Zuoping, Vice President of CQMPC; Mr LIU Yongsheng, President of CQMPC; and Ms YANG Bin, Director of the International Cooperation Department, Chongqing Municipal Health Commission.

Through this partnership, Kabale University continues to demonstrate its commitment to advancing scientific innovation, capacity building, and collaboration for the betterment of Uganda’s health and education sectors.