Minister for Science, Technology and Innovations has Warned Researchers Against Wasting Public Funds

By Benjamin Okolimong The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Eng. Jonard Asiimwe, has warned researchers and innovators against wasting public funds on projects that do not address practical challenges facing Ugandans. Asiimwe says the government expects universities and research institutions to translate scientific research into tangible products and solutions that improve people's lives rather than concentrate on academic qualifications and innovations with no clear market application. Speaking during a visit to Soroti University as part of his countrywide engagement with universities, Asiimwe questioned the relevance of some research activities, challenging researchers to demonstrate what they are producing and whose problems their work is solving. The minister said his technical team would engage academic staff, lecturers and researchers at Soroti University to assess ongoing innovations, identify gaps and provide technical support to promising projects. He also announced plans to make regular visits to universities and vocational institutions to monitor research activities and establish how government-procured equipment and laboratory facilities are being used to solve community problems