KIU Western Campus- The Directorate of Research, Innovation, Consultancy and Extension (DRICE) Stakeholders meeting took place on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, under the leadership of Prof. Regina Ejemot Nwadiaro, the Director of Research, Innovation, Consultancy and Extension (RICE) at Kampala International University (KIU) Western Campus in Ishaka, Uganda.

Issuing opening remarks, Prof. Nwadiaro outlined the primary objective of KIU DRICE, which is to foster and sustain research, innovation, consultancy, and extension at Kampala International University, Uganda.

"This is achieved by forming partnerships with international collaborators, enhancing the university's research and grant profile, ensuring adherence to ethical standards, and engaging with local NGOs for research outreach," she added, emphasizing that each faculty is expected to set targets for publications, grants, and innovations.

Dr. Ugwu Okechukwu Paul-Chima, Deputy Director of Research, presented strategies for improving research, recommending that faculties organize training and workshops on publication writing skills. He also urged faculty members to register their academic profiles with KIU, publish in high-impact journals, and mentor students toward these goals.

Dr. Muhammed Buhari, Deputy Director of Innovations, discussed the establishment of a Center of Excellence at DRICE Western Campus and stressed the importance of building connections between industry and academia.

He presented a timetable of events for DRICE innovations and encouraged stakeholders to bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry practice. Dr. Buhari also outlined plans to equip final-year students with essential skills for their future careers.

Noting further, Shabiluh Asaba, the Manager for grants and partnership, shared insights on improving grant acquisition at KIU, and  provided guidance on writing effective grant proposals and strategies for successful grant acquisition.