Makerere University Innovation Pod, in partnership with Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), launched a transformative skilling programme aimed at equipping students with expertise in electric mobility and related technologies.
The launch event featured Prof. Tickodri-Togboa, Executive Chairman of KMC; UNDP Resident Representative, Nwanne Vwede-Obahor; and Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor, representing Makerere University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. The programme targets Makerere students excelling academically and passionate about innovation.
Prof. Buyinza highlighted the university’s role in leading Uganda’s transition to green energy, stating, “As Makerere, we always pride ourselves on trailblazing. The electric vehicle journey in this country started with the KiiraEv... Through the launch of the e-mobility skilling programme, Makerere University is championing the green revolution.”
The inaugural cohort comprises 25 students, including 12 women, from engineering and physics disciplines, chosen through a competitive selection process. They will receive foundational training in electric vehicle technology, renewable energy, smart grid systems, and more. The programme emphasises hands-on learning, preparing students for the evolving electric vehicle industry.
Twinomujuni Mutunji, an Electrical Engineering student, shared his enthusiasm: “When the call was shared, I thought I could grab this opportunity and contribute to the sector that is seemingly a virgin one.”
Vwede-Obahor commended the initiative’s potential to address youth unemployment and create green jobs, encouraging the cohort to “make the most of this opportunity to contribute to the global green energy agenda.”
The programme’s structure includes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, with modules covering electric vehicle fundamentals and emerging trends. Eng. Fred Matovu from KMC described the year-long curriculum, stating, “We shall take these students to spaces to get hands-on experience with electric mobility technologies.”
This partnership signals a major step for Uganda’s green energy future, with students equipped to drive innovation and contribute to environmental sustainability.