Mbarara – Nkumba University has joined over 50 other higher institutions of learning for the 15th Higher Education Exhibition, currently underway in Mbarara.
The three-day event, organized by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE), kicked off today, March 27, 2025, under the theme “Strategies, Challenges, and Best Practices for Artificial Intelligence Integration in Higher Education in Uganda.”
Dr. Bbosa Sulaiman, the Director at Nkumba University Kampala Campus and also doubles as the university marketing manager, emphasized the significance of this year’s theme. “This year’s theme is well-positioned to help institutions pause and reflect on how the education sector is evolving and thus rethink how best to harness technology in teaching and learning.”
Tumukunde Ivan demonstrating to high school students how the smart home lighting system works // Japheth Godwin Walakira.
According to Dr. Bbosa, the significance of AI in education is multifaceted and transformative. He points out accessibility, inclusivity, enhanced efficiency, and automation, which he says saves teachers’ time by providing personalized learning.
“Intelligent tutoring systems, chatbots, and automated grading and assessment are just a few examples of how AI can support educators.” Added Dr. Bbosa.
During the exhibition, Nkumba University will be showcasing five innovative AI projects, including an automatic egg incubator, smart home, self-driving car, and air defense radar system, all curated by computer science students from the School of Computing and Informatics, plus eLearning.
At around 3 pm today, the NCHE Executive Director, Prof. Mary Okwakol, visited the Nkumba University exhibition stall, where she was impressed by the smart home lighting system. Computer Science student Tumukunde Ivan expounded on the project, highlighting its AI automation features. Prof. Okwakol commended the team for bringing the exhibition theme to life.
Tumukunde Ivan expressed his excitement about showcasing his project. “This is the best platform for institutions like Nkumba to showcase their technological capacity and hence attract more students. It’s my honor to have explained my project firsthand to the Chairperson NCHE, Prof. Okwakol.”
Tumukunde Ivan expounds on his projects as the Director, NCHE Mary Okwakol looks on // Japheth Godwin Walakira.
Approximately 10,000 high school students are expected to visit the exhibition, where over 50 higher institutions of learning are showcasing their academic might.
Today, approximately 200 students drawn from Western College Mbarara, Cream Land SS Mbarara, and St. Mary’s Girls Vocational School visited the Nkumba University exhibition stall.
Dr. Norah M, Chairperson of the organizing committee for the 15th NCHE Higher Education Exhibition, also visited the Nkumba University stall and lauded the institution’s innovative projects.
Experts say, the integration of AI in education l prepares students for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, equipping them with the skills and knowledge required to navigate an increasingly complex and technology-driven world.
While there are challenges associated with AI in education, such as privacy and security concerns, lack of trust, and cost, the benefits and potential of AI in transforming the education sector are undeniable.
The annual Higher Education Exhibition provides an opportunity for students in secondary school and those waiting to join universities to explore various institutions and make informed decisions about their future.
Fully set up smart home lighting system// Japheth Godwin Walakira
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