By: Kanto
Kai Okanta
Makerere University
Professor Engineer Bainomugisha has called on universities and research
institutions to support the implementation of Uganda’s National Data Strategy
by developing skilled professionals, advancing research and innovation, and
supporting secure data infrastructure.
Speaking at the launch of
the strategy, Bainomugisha said data delivers value when it is accessible,
trusted and usable, highlighting the role of academic institutions in turning
data into better decisions and services.
“Data delivers value when it
is accessible, trusted and usable!” he said.
Bainomugisha congratulated
the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance and Permanent Secretary Aminah
Zawedde on the launch, describing it as a milestone for the country.
He outlined three areas in
which universities and research institutions can contribute to the strategy’s
implementation: human capital and talent development, research and innovation,
and data infrastructure and open science.
On human capital
development, he said universities could help build skills ranging from data and
artificial intelligence literacy to advanced data architectures, algorithms,
machine learning and AI modelling.
He also highlighted the
importance of research and innovation in turning data into products that
improve decision-making, public services and business performance.
In the area of data
infrastructure and open science, Bainomugisha said universities could support
secure, connected systems and responsible data sharing.
He called on data holders
and other stakeholders to adopt the FAIR principles—Findable, Accessible,
Interoperable and Reusable—and make data accessible to researchers and
students.
“Implementing this strategy
requires both strong infrastructure and people who can turn data into value,”
he said.
