Muni University tipped to turn research projects into institutions

ARUA CITY — Muni University administration has been advised to transform successful research projects into lasting institutions.

Prof. Anthony Egeru, the Manager for Skilling and Engagement for Community Development at the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) secretariat in Kampala, urged the university to position itself for global competitiveness.

“Turn projects into institutions. A big project should leave behind lasting research capacity. Please recall and cultivate this strategy for breakfast. Change what is rewarding, and behaviour will follow. Be Muni, do not try to be Oxford. Partner to be powerful and choose a few areas where you can lead the world,” Prof. Egeru said.

He made the remarks on Wednesday during the opening of the 2nd two-day Muni University Research Dissemination Conference held at Desert Breeze Hotel in Arua City.

Participants pose for a group photo at the Muni University's 2nd Research Dissemination Conference at Desert Breeze Hotel on Wednesday. — **Participants pose for a group photo at the Muni University’s 2nd Research Dissemination Conference at Desert Breeze Hotel on Wednesday.**

He highlighted that research projects such as the Refugee and Host Community Youth Empowerment and Transformation Initiative (RETI) could be developed into institutions capable of leading the global agenda on refugees, especially at a time when refugee funding is declining.

The Mastercard-funded program aims to address unemployment challenges faced by young people aged 15–35 in 15 refugee-hosting districts in Uganda. RETI uses gender-sensitive and inclusive approaches to empower young people to realize their potential as agents of change.

“What do you have and how do you play your role? In social cohesion, humanitarian development, and the relationship between displacement and host communities, you are strong. That is where the health and research unit becomes very significant for this country. For Muni, you can become the research leader,” he added.

Prof. Robert Kajobe, the Head of Graduate Studies at Muni University, said the university’s recent recognition in Africa serves as proof of concept that the approach is working.

**Prof. Kajobe while addressing the participants during the conference at Desert Breeze Hotel on Thursday**

“The suggestion by Prof. Egeru that we do not need this merely as a project is already a very good proof of concept. It positions Muni University to lead in Africa. Transforming it into an institute is promising. The good news is that we already have an Institute of Leadership and Governance, and the RETI program is a major component of that institute,” Prof. Kajobe said.

The conference provides a platform for sharing research findings, innovations, knowledge and experiences that contribute to societal transformation. It also creates opportunities for scholarly dialogue and the dissemination of evidence-based solutions.

The Scientific Committee used the opportunity to honour different individuals with awards for presenting outstanding research findings during the function.

The presenter in the Education and Human Development thematic area, Assoc. Prof. Denis Atibuni, emerged as the overall best presenter.

**Assoc. Prof. Denis Atibuni prepares to receive his accolade from Dr. Kibirai for being the over all best presenter during the conference**

In his remarks, Dr Moses Kibirai, the Muni University Council Vice Chairperson, said the two days were well spent.

“I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to all the presenters. I participated in all these presentations keenly, trying to understand the extent we have gone, and I think we have reached there. By the fact that a young researcher can stand before this gathering and talk without trembling is a big achievement,” Dr Kibirai said.

He called for support for female researchers and urged the university to consider allocating research grants to boost their participation in research activities.

On behalf of the University Council, Dr Kibirai pledged total support in promoting research in Muni University.

“On our part as the leadership of this University, we shall be the last people to frustrate the growth of research in this University. I encourage you, Prof. Kajobe, to pursue your dreams with everybody, including the student researchers. I can assure you the more research we make for a country, the better for that country,” Dr Kibirai said.

The next Muni University Research Dissemination Conference is scheduled for 13–14 October 2027.