Innovation Meets Sustainability as Uganda Design Summit 2025 Nears Grand Finale at Kyambogo University
The Uganda Design Summit 2025 at Kyambogo University is drawing to a close tomorrow after three days of vibrant exhibitions, thought-provoking panel discussions, and groundbreaking innovations under the theme “Bridging Worlds, Shaping Sustainable Futures.”
The four-day summit, organized under the leadership of Prof. Eli Katunguka, Vice Chancellor of Kyambogo University, has brought together designers, students, policymakers, and industry leaders committed to redefining Uganda’s design and innovation landscape.
The Guest of Honour, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, Minister of Education and Sports, officially opened the summit earlier this week, commending the university for championing creativity and sustainable innovation among young Ugandans.
> “Our future lies in the hands of young innovators who think creatively and sustainably. Kyambogo University has demonstrated how education can be the foundation of a greener, more productive Uganda,”
— Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni
Ideas in Action
Throughout the summit, attendees have explored how design can drive sustainability across industries — from eco-friendly product design to renewable energy solutions and waste management innovations.
Exhibitions by Kyambogo University students have showcased everything from biodegradable packaging and energy-saving home appliances to digitally designed furniture inspired by Ugandan cultural aesthetics.
A highlight of the event has been the panel discussions led by Mr. Aget Abraham from the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), who emphasized the importance of intellectual property in nurturing creativity and protecting innovators’ work.
> “For Uganda to build a strong creative economy, our innovators must understand how to protect their ideas and turn them into scalable enterprises,”
— Mr. Aget Abraham, URSB
Industry-Backed Innovation
Key sponsors, including Jesa, Nice House of Plastics, and Uganda Batteries Ltd, have praised the summit for fostering collaboration between universities and industry. Their presence reflects a growing commitment among Ugandan companies to invest in sustainable and design-led solutions.
Industry representatives have expressed interest in partnering with young innovators to commercialize prototypes displayed at the summit — a promising sign for the future of Uganda’s design and manufacturing sectors.
A Platform for the Future
As the summit prepares to close tomorrow, it leaves behind a strong message — that design and sustainability are central to Uganda’s transformation agenda.
Workshops on design thinking, entrepreneurship, and product development have empowered participants with the skills and networks needed to advance their ideas beyond the classroom.
> “This summit has proven that design is more than art — it’s a tool for social and economic change. The enthusiasm from our students and partners gives us confidence in the future,”
— Prof. Eli Katunguka, Vice Chancellor, Kyambogo University
Closing Ceremony Tomorrow
The closing ceremony, scheduled for Wednesday, October 8, 2025, will feature final exhibitions, awards for outstanding innovations, and reflections from key partners. The Urban Gazette will provide full coverage of the winners and highlights from the final day.
Event: Uganda Design Summit 2025
Theme: “Bridging Worlds, Shaping Sustainable Futures”
Venue: Kyambogo University, Kampala
Organizer: Prof. Eli Katunguka, Vice Chancellor, Kyambogo University
Guest of Honour: Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, Minister of Education and Sports
Key Panelist: Mr. Aget Abraham (URSB)
Sponsors: Jesa, Nice House Plastics, Uganda Batteries Ltd
Follow The Urban Gazette for exclusive coverage of the closing ceremony and stories of the innovators shaping Uganda’s sustainable design future.
