Kabale University Students participate in the East Africa Digital Innovation Summit

Students from the Faculties of Computing, Library & Information Science, and Engineering, Technology, Applied Design & Fine Art have represented Kabale University at the East Africa Digital Innovation Summit held at the Yusuf Lule Teaching Facility in Makerere University over the weekend.

The team was led by the Guild President Diaz Drake Owoyesigire and Minister of ICT Hon. Gracious Akandwanaho. The team showcased their exceptional skills and knowledge in the field of technology.

The event that was held under the theme “The Future of Digital Transformation was part of a larger series of summits that commenced on July 6th in Rwanda, followed by Kenya on the 7th, and then in Uganda on the 8^th of July. The participants from Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda gathered to discuss and explore the latest advancements in digital innovation.

The summit was inaugurated by Hon. Kevin Mugabi, the Minister of Information, Research, and Innovation, of Makerere University Guild Council. In his speech, Hon. Mugabi encouraged the participants to seize the opportunities of networking with potential employers. He appreciated the organizers and partners for their efforts in making the summit a resounding success.

The guest of honor, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, was represented by Mr. Silas Ngabirano, Commissioner who commented on the importance of digital skilling and empowering young children with technology and artificial intelligence skills. “I would like to encourage you to embrace the opportunities that technology offers, and invest in yourselves through continuous learning”, he noted.

Mr. Ngabirano further informed the participants that the Ministry of ICT was committed to supporting innovators through grants and policies which promote innovation.

The facilitators shared their expertise on topics such as the role of higher education in digital transformation, digital marketing, cybersecurity, research and innovation, and the Internet of Things. They stressed the need for collaboration, digital leadership, and technology’s vast opportunities for the youth.

Among the speakers was the CEO of JAMBO TODAY, who showcased their  Application ‘JAMBOTODAY’, which was designed to connect friends. The CEO shared that the journey was enabled through hard work and perseverance, underscoring the importance of determination and embracing innovative ideas.

The panel discussion further enriched the summit as the discussants addressed topics such as the role of social media in building a digital footprint, the role of investors in East Africa, and digital transformation through talent development.

Seasoned social media influencers shared their success stories, encouraging participants to harness the power of social media to showcase their innovations and build their personal brands. They emphasized the importance of being mindful of what one shares on social media and advised participants to develop their profiles through blogging and other platforms.

Students from Kabale University expressed joy and gratitude for the opportunity to attend the summit. They highlighted the invaluable knowledge gained, connections made, and a deeper understanding of digital innovations’ potential for their university, respective communities, and the entire East African region.