University Logo

University of the Sacred Heart Gulu

Health of Mind, Heart and Body
background pattern
March 23-24, 2026 NCHE Conference

USHG Vice Chancellor Leads Dialogue on University–Industry Linkages at 7th NCHE Higher Education Conference

Rev. Fr. Dr. Jino O. Mwaka, VC
Acholi Inn Hotel, Gulu
Rev. Fr. Dr. Jino O. Mwaka speaking at NCHE Conference
Vice Chancellor Rev. Fr. Dr. Jino O. Mwaka chairing the session at Acholi Inn Hotel, Gulu

The Vice Chancellor of the University of the Sacred Heart Gulu, Rev. Fr. Dr. Jino O. Mwaka, served as Session Chairperson during Day Two, Session Two of the 7th Annual Higher Education Conference, organized by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE).

The prestigious conference was held from 23rd to 24th March 2026 at Acholi Inn Hotel under the transformative theme "Harnessing Innovations in Higher Education for Accelerated Economic Transformation." It brought together key stakeholders in higher education, industry, policy, and development to advance dialogue on innovation, knowledge transfer, and national development.

Conference participants
Interactive session at NCHE Conference
Panel discussion
Stakeholders engaging on university-industry linkages

Strengthening University–Industry Linkages and Knowledge Transfer

Rev. Fr. Dr. Mwaka chaired the pivotal session on "Strengthening University–Industry Linkages and Knowledge Transfer." The session explored how universities can translate research into marketable innovations through effective intellectual property management, commercialization strategies, joint research, and technology transfer. The deliberations positioned USHG as a leader in bridging academia and industry to accelerate Uganda’s economic growth.

Discussions emphasized the importance of sustaining university–industry partnerships and embedding entrepreneurship in university curricula to nurture innovation-driven graduates.

Participants further reflected on the role of knowledge transfer in building a functional innovation system in Uganda that supports inclusive development. The session also addressed the contribution of higher education institutions in promoting social security awareness and retirement planning, highlighting the broader role of universities in preparing graduates and communities for sustainable livelihoods and responsible citizenship.

Interactive Engagement & Lasting Impact

The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment that encouraged meaningful engagement among participants. Stakeholders from various industries, government agencies, and academic institutions lauded the Vice Chancellor’s leadership and the actionable insights generated during the discussions.

In his role as Session Chairperson, Rev. Fr. Dr. Mwaka guided the deliberations and facilitated insightful discussions, underscoring the University of the Sacred Heart Gulu's commitment to academic leadership, innovation, industry engagement, and community-centred development.

Category: Higher Education & Industry Partnerships

Session Chairperson

Rev. Fr. Dr. Jino O. Mwaka

Rev. Fr. Dr. Jino O. Mwaka

Vice Chancellor, University of the Sacred Heart Gulu

"True transformation in higher education requires seamless collaboration between academia and industry to drive innovation and inclusive development."

Conference Details

  • Dates: 23rd – 24th March 2026
  • Venue: Acholi Inn Hotel, Gulu City, Uganda
  • Theme: Harnessing Innovations in Higher Education for Accelerated Economic Transformation
  • Organizer: National Council for Higher Education (NCHE)

Key Takeaways

  • Intellectual property management & commercialization strategies
  • Joint research collaborations with industry leaders
  • Entrepreneurship integration in university curricula
  • Social security awareness and retirement planning for graduates
  • Building a functional innovation ecosystem in Uganda

More News & Updates

All News
Aug 2025

USHG Welcomes New Cohort Students 2025

Orientation week marked by enthusiasm as freshers begin academic journey.

Aug 2025

Archbishop Pastoral Visit to USHG

His Grace Raphael P'Mony Wokorach encourages students in faith and academics.

Nov 2025

4th Graduation Ceremony Success

USHG commissions new Servants of Hope in a colorful ceremony.