Prof. K.M. Mathew Highlights Collaboration and Digital Transformation at the Opening of the 9th NCC 2025
In an inspiring address that set the tone for Uganda’s premier ICT event, Prof. K.M. Mathew, Vice Chancellor of ISBAT University, delivered the welcome remarks at the 9th National Communication Conference (NCC 2025) held at the National ICT Innovation Hub in Nakawa. His speech reflected optimism, gratitude, and a strong call for collaboration in shaping Uganda’s digital transformation journey.
Welcoming the Nation’s Innovators and Change-Makers
Prof. Mathew began his remarks by warmly welcoming a distinguished audience that included government officials, policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, innovators, and students from across Uganda and beyond. He also extended greetings to delegates joining the event virtually, emphasizing the inclusive and national character of the conference.
“It is an honor and delight to welcome all our distinguished guests, delegates, and partners to the 9th National Communication Conference,” he said. “This gathering represents Uganda’s collective commitment to using technology as a force for sustainable national development.”
Uganda’s Growing Communication Sector
Reflecting on Uganda’s progress in the ICT sector, Prof. Mathew highlighted the tremendous growth in mobile penetration, internet connectivity, and digital service adoption across the country. He noted that these milestones were made possible by heavy investment in fiber optic infrastructure and the government’s commitment to a liberalized and competitive communications market.
He commended the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) for creating an enabling environment that continues to attract private sector investment, research partnerships, and innovation, describing Uganda’s communication sector as a key driver of socio-economic growth.
Relevance of the NCC 2025 Theme
Prof. Mathew reaffirmed the relevance of this year’s conference theme — “Harnessing Digital Innovation to Power Sustainable Local Solutions for Uganda’s Development Goals.” He explained that the theme could not have come at a better time, as Uganda works to align digital transformation efforts with national frameworks such as Vision 2040 and the National Development Plan IV (NDP IV).
He reminded participants that digital innovation is not just about deploying new technologies but about thoughtfully applying technology to solve local challenges in critical sectors like agriculture, education, healthcare, and climate resilience.
“Digital innovation must empower our youth, women, and rural communities,” he emphasized. “True transformation happens when technology becomes a tool for inclusion, equity, and opportunity.”
The ICT Clubs Journey: Youth at the Heart of Digital Change
Prof. Mathew proudly shared the impact of the ICT Club Competition, a national initiative run by UCC in partnership with KAWA Uganda, led by Moses Wamanga. Prior to the conference, the ISBAT and KAWA teams had interacted with over 200 secondary schools across Uganda’s four regions — Jinja (Eastern), Mbarara (Western), Gulu (Northern), and Kampala (Central) — identifying and mentoring young innovators solving real community challenges through technology.
He praised the ICT Clubs as a living example of how digital innovation starts in schools, where learners are encouraged to think critically and use technology to address issues in their communities.
“Our young innovators are not just the leaders of tomorrow,” he said. “They are the creators of solutions today. Their participation in this conference is proof that the future of Uganda’s innovation ecosystem is in capable hands.”
Gratitude for Collaboration and Support
In his message of gratitude, Prof. Mathew expressed sincere appreciation to the Executive Director of UCC, Hon. George William Nyombi Thembo, and the entire UCC leadership for their trust in ISBAT University to host and coordinate this year’s national conference in partnership with Gulu University.
He also extended thanks to the Founding Chairman of ISBAT University, Mr. Varghese Mundamattam, for his unwavering vision and investment in higher education and innovation, as well as to Hon. Fred Omach Mandir, Chancellor of ISBAT University, for his continued guidance and mentorship.
“This conference is a testament to what we can achieve when regulators, academia, and industry work together,” Prof. Mathew noted. “We are deeply grateful to UCC for the confidence they have placed in ISBAT University and for their leadership in advancing Uganda’s communication and innovation agenda.”
A Milestone in Research and Publication
Prof. Mathew proudly announced that the 9th NCC 2025 had achieved a record-breaking milestone in academic participation, with over 120 technical papers submitted by researchers and innovators from across Uganda and the region. He shared that the approved papers would be published in the International Journal of Business Science, Engineering, and Technology — a recognized international platform that enables scholars to share their work globally.
“This marks the first time in the history of the conference that our collective research output will reach an international audience,” he said. “It is a step forward for Ugandan scholars and a validation of the growing quality of our academic community.”
🌱 ISBAT University’s Commitment to Empowerment
Reaffirming the university’s vision, Prof. Mathew reiterated that ISBAT University remains steadfast in its mission to nurture innovation and transform lives. Guided by its motto, “Empowering Lives, Empowering Uganda, Empowering Africa,” the university is committed to providing an education that bridges the gap between theory and real-world application.
He emphasized that universities must be catalysts for national transformation — not just institutions of learning, but engines of innovation and collaboration.
A Call to Action for a Digitally Inclusive Uganda
In his closing remarks, Prof. Mathew urged all delegates, innovators, and researchers to make the most of the NCC 2025 platform. He encouraged them to use the conference to exchange ideas, form meaningful partnerships, and develop actionable strategies that directly contribute to Uganda’s sustainable development goals.
“Let us use this opportunity to collaborate, innovate, and build a future that is inclusive and prosperous for all Ugandans,” he said. “Together, we can harness digital innovation to transform lives and strengthen our nation.”
His remarks captured the essence of NCC 2025 — a gathering not only to share ideas but to forge the partnerships and policies that will define Uganda’s digital future.
🎥 Watch the full welcome remarks here:
