Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST)

The Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST) is a semi-autonomous government agency established in 1990 under the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology Act (CAP 209). It operates under the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, with its headquarters located at Plot 6, Kimera Road, Ntinda, Kampala.

Mission and Vision

• Vision: To foster a prosperous, science and technology-led Ugandan society.

• Mission: To provide effective and innovative leadership in the development, promotion, and application of science and technology, integrating them into sustainable national development.

Core Functions

UNCST’s primary responsibilities include:

• Policy Development: Advising on and coordinating the formulation of national policies across all fields of science and technology.

• Research Promotion: Facilitating and coordinating research and development (R&D) activities in Uganda.

• Technology Advancement: Promoting and developing indigenous science and technology.

• Information Dissemination: Acting as a clearinghouse for information on research and experimental development, and disseminating R&D findings through seminars, workshops, and publications.

• Intellectual Property Protection: Protecting intellectual property rights through appropriate patent laws and operating a national patent office.

• Recognition of Excellence: Recognizing and honoring scientists and technologists for outstanding achievements.

• Collaboration: Working closely with other organizations involved in scientific and technological activities.

Strategic Initiatives

UNCST has undertaken several initiatives to bolster science and technology in Uganda:

• National Research Repository of Uganda (NRU): A digital platform providing free and open access to Ugandan research, including theses, dissertations, policy papers, and scientific publications.

• Millennium Science Initiative (2007–2013): A program co-financed by the World Bank aimed at strengthening Uganda’s scientific and technological capacity through funding facilities and outreach programs.

• Open Science Workshops: Organizing national workshops to promote the application of open science in delivering Uganda’s National Development Plan (NDP) IV, focusing on sectors like agro-industrialization, tourism, mining, and science, technology, and innovation.

Contact Information

• Address: Plot 6, Kimera Road, Ntinda, P.O. Box 6884, Kampala, Uganda

• Phone: +256 414 705 500

• Email: info@uncst.go.ug

• Website: www.uncst.go.ug