In a bold stride toward revolutionizing STEMI education, the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT) has launched its state-of-the-art Augmented and Virtual Reality (AVR) Cluster Center. Under the theme, “Transforming STEMI Education with Mixed Reality: Building a Knowledge-Based Economy,” this initiative aims to reshape how Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation (STEMI) subjects are taught, to equip students with critical digital skills for the future job market.
The AVR Cluster Center is designed to address longstanding challenges in STEMI education, where complex and abstract concepts often require more than traditional teaching methods can provide. With AVR technology, students at UICT can now learn in immersive, interactive environments that make learning engaging and accessible. This 20-seat lab facility is equipped with advanced VR headsets, AR glasses, smart screens, and high-performance computers. The AVR Center offers tools for 3D modeling, virtual labs, and interactive simulations, empowering students with hands-on experiences that bridge theory and practical application.
Dr. Fredrick Kitoogo highlighting the potential of AVR technology to address critical obstacles in education said education, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation (STEMI) subjects, faces significant challenges. “Complex and abstract concepts are difficult to teach and understand within traditional classroom settings. Insufficient student engagement, uncontextualized learning, and limited teacher-student collaboration further compound these challenges,” he said. “The introduction of AVR technology promises to address these issues by providing immersive, interactive, and contextualized learning experiences that make complex concepts accessible and engaging for all students.”
The launch of the AVR Cluster Center is a testament to UICT’s commitment to fostering a knowledge-based economy in Uganda, where technological advancements play a central role in economic development. Dean Munene, Chair of the Governing Council at UICT, elaborated on the institution’s vision.
“In a world where technology shapes nearly every aspect of our lives, the decision to incorporate AVR into teaching and learning at UICT stems from a need to modernize our educational methods, enhance student engagement, and equip our learners with skills that are essential for success in the digital age,” he remarked. “This lab provides our students and faculty with hardware platforms and experimental devices that facilitate the creation of digital environments, promoting active student engagement.”
The government has robustly supported this initiative through the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance. Dr. Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, underscored the collective effort required to drive Uganda’s digital transformation.
“As we move forward, let us remember that our journey toward a knowledge-based economy is a collective effort,” said Dr. Zawedde. “The government remains committed to providing the necessary support and creating an enabling environment for this and other digital initiatives to thrive.” She added, “Together, we will ensure that Uganda’s digital transformation is inclusive, impactful, and sustainable.”
Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, Minister of ICT and National Guidance, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder collaboration to foster innovation, support research, and promote new technologies that benefit society.
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has also committed resources to ensure the AVR Center’s success. Eng. Christine Mugimba, Director of ICT and Research at UCC, reaffirmed UCC’s dedication to advancing Uganda’s digital agenda through initiatives like UICT’s AVR Cluster Center.
“As UCC, we’re committed to empowering UICT’s new AVR Cluster Center with cutting-edge tech, expert training, and industry opportunities for students and researchers,” she said. “Uganda’s most valuable resource is its people, and through human capacity development, we will drive our nation’s digital agenda forward.”
UICT’s AVR Cluster Center represents a strategic step toward empowering Uganda’s youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a technology-driven world. Through immersive, mixed-reality learning experiences, UICT is setting a precedent for the future of education in Uganda, one that prepares students for the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy.
