Ndejje University proudly participated in the recently concluded 16th National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) Exhibition held at Gulu University Grounds under the theme: “Harnessing Innovation in Higher Education for Accelerated Economic Transformation.” The three-day exhibition, which ran from 26th–28th March 2026, brought together institutions of higher learning from across the country to showcase cutting-edge innovations and share knowledge.
From the very start, Ndejje University made a remarkable impression, with a vibrant and interactive exhibition stall that attracted high traffic from visitors, students, researchers, and policymakers. The presence of the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs, Dr. Christopher Mayanja, alongside the Academic Registrar, Dr. Mary Wanda, greatly boosted the morale of both staff and students, reinforcing the University’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation.
Throughout the exhibition, Ndejje University’s students and staff demonstrated exceptional creativity and problem-solving skills through a range of innovative projects. Among the highlights were a Lesson Plan Generator aimed at enhancing efficiency in teaching and learning processes, Moringa value addition in Complementary Medicine showcasing the potential of natural products in improving health and wellness, and a Used Engine Oil Stove—an environmentally conscious innovation addressing waste management and energy challenges. Additional projects focusing on environmental pollution control technologies and smart tech detection models further captured the attention of judges and adjudicators, who commended the University for its practical approach to addressing real-world challenges.
The exhibition also attracted high-profile dignitaries, including the Minister of State for Higher Education, Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, who visited Ndejje University’s stall and engaged with students and staff, appreciating their innovative contributions toward accelerating Uganda’s economic transformation.
According to Roice Bwambale Kalengyo, Head of the Research, Innovation and Development Committee in the Faculty of Engineering, the exhibition provided an invaluable platform for visibility, networking, and knowledge exchange. Dr. Birgit Berthold from the Department of Complementary Medicine described the experience as enriching and impactful, noting that it created opportunities to build valuable partnerships for collaborative innovation, offered constructive feedback and fresh ideas for programme development, and helped identify critical gaps and needs within the education sector. She further highlighted how visiting other university stalls broadened perspectives and opened up new areas of exploration, while also inspiring many young students from schools who attended the exhibition.
She commended the strong teamwork exhibited by the Ndejje University team, which ensured consistent engagement with visitors despite the demanding schedule of presentations and demonstrations. The team maintained high levels of interaction at the exhibition stall, showcasing groundbreaking ideas and holding valuable conversations with stakeholders.
The NCHE Exhibition also opened doors for potential partnerships that are expected to enhance grant mobilization and elevate student-led projects to another level. These collaborations are key to strengthening Ndejje University’s role in research, innovation, and community impact.
As the exhibition concluded, Ndejje University stood out as a hub of innovation and excellence. The institution’s participation not only showcased its academic strength but also reaffirmed its commitment to contributing to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation through practical, research-driven solutions. The experience was, in the words of participants, an amazing and blessed time, one that will continue to inspire greater innovation, collaboration, and impact in the years ahead.
