Uganda National Council for Science and Technology

The Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST) promotes and coordinates research, science, and technology to drive national development. It plays a critical role in shaping science policy and advancing innovation to improve the quality of life in Uganda.

UNCST provides the Government of Uganda with scientific evidence for policy formulation and planning. Its national science reports offer valuable insights into Uganda’s research capacity and its journey towards a knowledge-based economy. The Council highlights the need for targeted policy reforms to foster impactful change.

Advancing Research and Innovation through the SGCI

As a member of the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI), UNCST has benefited from increased capacity for managing research grants and oversight. SGCI has enabled UNCST to run competitive research calls that align with Uganda’s National Development Plan and Sustainable Development Goals.

SGCI funding supports research projects that translate findings into real-world solutions. These projects focus on areas that strengthen public-private partnerships, particularly in industrialisation and manufacturing value chains. This ensures research directly contributes to social progress and economic resilience.

Fostering Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration

UNCST also developed the Technomart, an online platform that connects researchers, investors, and entrepreneurs to support technology commercialisation across Africa. Funded through SGCI, the platform fosters public-private partnerships and strengthens collaboration between academia and industry within Uganda’s innovation ecosystem. It also strengthens regional research networks and increases the visibility of Ugandan innovation.

UNCST hosts knowledge dissemination webinars to showcase SGCI-funded research. These online events highlight research outcomes with the potential to inspire innovation and collaboration across sectors. They bring together researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and other key stakeholders.

Continuing to Build Uganda’s Research Future

UNCST remains committed to building Uganda’s science, technology, and innovation capacity. Through regional partnerships, national programmes, and policy development, it supports sustainable growth and a stronger innovation ecosystem.