Huawei Technologies, a Chinese IT solution provider, has launched a competition that will see students from three local universities develop software applications aimed at addressing local needs.
Under the Huawei Android Application Challenge Makerere, Kyambogo and Kampala International universities will take part in the competition.
The move aims at supporting creativity and technological innovations that make a difference in the lives of Ugandans.
Huawei Uganda chief executive officer Yang Yang said through such activities, they can continue tapping and promoting local talent.
Yang said this will increase localized content and spur growth and development of ICT programmes.
ICT state minister Nyombi Thembo said about 14 million Ugandans own mobile phones, an indication of the sector’s continued growth.
“Many Ugandans access the internet through their mobile phone. The time is now to develop products to reach these Ugandans,” Nyombi said at the launch of the campaign at Makerere Guest House last week.
In and earlier partnership between Makerere University and the technology giant, 10 Makerere students and there tutors where sent for a one-week specialized training in ICT at the Huawei Training Centre in Nairobi, Kenya.
“Uganda has many investment opportunities and ICT is one of tem. We have a high population and market that is growing fast. Because of oil prospects, there is need for more computer technology,” Yang said.
He said under Makerere and Huawei Technologies, more students will benefit from the project.
Experts say Uganda needs to invest heavily in the ICT sector because it is a strategic driver for addressing increasing challenges facing the country.
Nyombi said although a remarkable progress had been made in expanding the ICT infrastructure in colleges, the increasing number of student had posed a number of challenges. There is limited internet facilities, teaching material and innovations centres.
From Monitor Publications
