IUIU to participate in International Islamic Science Exhibition

By Sarah Nalule

The Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) has commenced the rigorous selection process for innovative students who will represent the institution at the upcoming International Islamic Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) exhibition.

The prestigious event, whose host country remains to be announced, will showcase cutting-edge scientific and technological solutions from Islamic universities worldwide.

During the second phase of screening held Friday, June 27 at IUIU’s Kampala Campus, Dr. Yunus Walusimbi, the ICESCO program coordinator at IUIU, revealed that the university received a special invitation from ICESCO headquarters in Morocco to nurture innovation and entrepreneurship among its students.

“We were specifically tasked to identify students capable of developing science and technology-based projects that provide practical solutions to societal challenges,” Dr. Walusimbi explained.

The selection process, according to Dr. Walusimbi, followed strict criteria focusing on scientific merit and technological applicability. “From thirty applicant teams, we shortlisted twelve in February. These teams underwent intensive boot camp training to refine their ideas and develop working prototypes,” he noted.

Friday’s national pitching competition marked the final selection stage, with only three teams earning the privilege to represent Uganda at the international forum.

“This competition aligns with ICESCO’s broader vision to cultivate young entrepreneurs who can leverage science and technology for development,” Dr. Walusimbi emphasized.

The coordinator further disclosed significant incentives for participants: “The winning team at the international level will receive $35,000 (approximately Shs 125 million). Beyond the financial reward, this platform equips students with invaluable skills to become future job creators.”

David Twebaze from the Ugandan National Commission for UNESCO, ICESCO’s parent organization, contextualized the initiative within global education frameworks.

“Our mandate supports Education 2030 programs, which prioritize quality education, equitable access, and lifelong learning opportunities for all,” he stated.

Twebaze highlighted the convergence between UNESCO and ICESCO in advancing Sustainable Development Goals.

“We’re particularly focused on three implementation strategies: enhancing learning environments, improving teacher quality and quantity, and expanding scholarship opportunities.”

Shifah Wahab from IUIU’s Faculty of Management, one of the competition judges, elaborated on the evaluation criteria.

“We assess projects based on four key parameters: the identified community problem, proposed solution, innovation level, and business viability. The technological component must demonstrate inclusive applicability.”

Among the notable innovations was the Smart Parking System developed by a team comprising Ibrahim Sabavuma, Ibrahim Kirabo Ssemambo, and Nusufah Nakagwa.

“Our mobile application will help drivers locate available parking spaces in real-time across the city,” Sabavuma explained. “The system incorporates solar-powered sensors that detect vacant slots and relay information to users.”