The benchmarking exercise conducted by the management committee of the Bunyoro University taskforce at Bulindi ZARDI on February 14, 2024, marked a crucial step towards the establishment of a science-based university in the region. The three-man delegation headed by Prof. Grace Bantebya Kyomuhendo engaged in fruitful discussions and knowledge sharing with counterparts at Bulindi ZARDI, laying the foundation for informed decision-making regarding the university’s academic programmes and resource utilisation.
Prof. Bantebya emphasised the significance of leveraging the natural resources within the region to inform the establishment of the university. She outlined key academic programmes, including agriculture and value chain, food science and technology, and natural resources management, tailored to address the needs of the region.
These programmes, developed with a practical orientation, aim to equip students with hands-on experience and skills essential for addressing community challenges. A key aspect of the university’s vision, Prof. Bantebya said, involves engaging students in practical problem-solving and dissemination of NARO technologies, thereby bridging the gap between research and application.
We know that you [NARO] do a lot of research. We’re looking at students coming here to learn and to help to spread these innovations as we attach them to different institutions to practically solve some of the problems that are in these communities as part of their training.
Prof. Bantebya explained
The facilities at Bulindi ZARDI left committee members impressed, with Mr. John Kennedy Ssemanda (the Human Resources and Administration Officer) highlighting the institute’s training opportunities for students from various academic institutions across the country. The presence of dormitories, conference halls, social amenities, internet connectivity, and extensive research acreage provided a conducive environment for hands on training and academic pursuits.
Mr. Andama Joackin, the Farm Manager, outlined the institute’s commitment to research trials and demonstrations across 271 acres, focusing on crops and livestock technologies relevant to the Albertine Graben.
Furthermore, Dr. Guma Williams, the Ag. Director of Research at the time, pointed out that the institute has a research laboratory, soon to be furnished with essential tools and systems for conducting research in both crops and livestock. The interactive sessions and field excursions enriched the delegation’s understanding and determination to establish a distinctive public university in Bunyoro, expected to contribute significantly to agricultural and community development in the region.