KAMPALA, Uganda — Makerere University’s College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) has recorded a series of notable achievements in innovation, research, design and community engagement during the second quarter of 2026, reinforcing its role in advancing practical solutions to Uganda’s development challenges.
One of the quarter’s major highlights was the unveiling of Uganda’s first fully locally manufactured solar-powered water pump, developed by Dr. Edmund Tumusiime of CEDAT’s Department of Mechanical Engineering. Supported by the Secretariat of Science, Technology and Innovation in the Office of the President, the innovation seeks to address the high cost and limited accessibility of irrigation technologies faced by smallholder farmers.
More than 90 percent of the pump’s components, including the impellers, shafts, couplings, motor and solar inverter, were locally designed and produced. The innovation is expected to reduce dependence on imported equipment, create employment opportunities and contribute to the development of Uganda’s local manufacturing industry. The team also aims to significantly lower the cost of the pump compared with imported alternatives.
CEDAT also placed strong emphasis on nurturing creativity and professional readiness among students. From June 1–6, the Department of Visual Communication and Multimedia held the inaugural VCM Design Week at the Makerere University Art Gallery. The six-day exhibition showcased innovative work by junior designers from the pioneering 2023 cohort of the Bachelor of Visual Communication, Design and Multimedia programme. The event attracted national leaders, including Uganda Investment Authority Director General Robert Mukiza and Uganda Media Centre Director Allan Kasujja, who recognized the potential of young designers to contribute to Uganda’s creative economy.
Research remained another key area of focus. CEDAT convened a research dissemination session on carbon offsetting in Uganda’s brick industry, highlighting opportunities to reduce emissions from traditional brick production while promoting cleaner air, healthier communities and more sustainable construction practices. The research, supported by the Makerere Research and Innovations Fund, proposed practical measures including improved kiln designs, efficient fuel use and regular emissions monitoring.
The College further strengthened its commitment to skills development and safer construction practices. More than 250 fundis, technicians and artisans participated in a two-day construction training programme held in April in partnership with Hima Cement and other stakeholders. The training covered building codes, site safety, plumbing and metalwork, while encouraging knowledge exchange between experienced practitioners and engineering students.
In addition, CEDAT hosted community-driven engineering training facilitated by Engineers Without Borders–East Africa, equipping students with practical skills for working collaboratively with communities to develop sustainable solutions. The Integrated Smart Systems Group also held its annual poster presentations, connecting student research with industry challenges.
The quarter was equally marked by academic and artistic achievements. Ms. Yvonne Tusiimire successfully defended her PhD thesis on innovative electrospun nanofibrous membranes for burn wound treatment, while Associate Professor Venny Nakazibwe showcased Biomorphic Abstraction in Textile Surface Design, an exhibition exploring transformation, nature, cultural expression and textile design.
As CEDAT looks ahead, the College continues to position teaching, research, innovation and outreach at the centre of its contribution to national development. The achievements of the April–June 2026 quarter demonstrate a growing commitment to locally driven innovation, youth empowerment, sustainable development and the transformation of academic knowledge into practical solutions for society.