ICT minister proposes free Internet for universities

The minister for Information, Technology and Communications, Mr Frank Tumwebaze

What you need to know:

  • The ICT minister also advised students to come up with technological advancements that are business oriented.
    The conference is organised by Makerere University and the UCC.

The minister for Information, Technology and Communications, Mr Frank Tumwebaze, has proposed availing free internet and Wi Fi at education institutions and government agencies.
Mr Tumwebaze has said connectivity is now a prerequisite for effective learning and development, and as such institutions should consider including free Internet in their budgets.

The minister made the remarks yesterday while launching the 5th edition of a two-day National Conference on Communications (NCC) at Makerere University under the theme, “Harnessing Opportunities in the Emerging 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) Technologies.”

The minister said Uganda Communication Commission (UCC) will discuss the proposal with the various institutions.
The head of communication at Makerere University, Mr Muhammad Kigunddu, said a policy on free Internet at all corners of the institution is long over due.
“This is a very good move, we welcome that from government. It is so because at the moment we have been a little bit restricted, we have been putting WIFI at just some centres because of the cost. We have actually been having spots that have been enhanced at every college,” Mr Kiggundu said.

Mr Tumwebaze also underscored the need for more skilling and mentorship if the ICT sector is to advance
He said there is a change in the digital era and that putting emphasis on theory alone will not produce hands-on innovators in technology.
He urged stake holders including the private sector, non-government organisations and partners to fully implement mentorship for the hundreds of graduates universities across the country produce annually.

The ICT minister also advised students to come up with technological advancements that are business oriented.
The conference is organised by Makerere University and the UCC.
NCC provides students, researchers, developers, and practitioners with a platform to address new research challenges, share solutions and discuss issues relevant to the communications sector of Uganda.