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72nd Graduation: Doctoral Citations – CoCIS

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ANGOLE Okelo Richard
ANGOLE Okelo Richard

ANGOLE Okelo Richard
Ontology-Based Model for Integrating Knowledge of Modern and Traditional Medicine

Mr. ANGOLE Okelo Richard developed ontology model for integrating complex knowledge of African traditional medicine and modern medicine. complex African Society; African Traditional Medicine (ATM) is used in parallel to Modern medicine (MM). Various attempts have been made to bridge the gap between ATM and MM in order to harmonize treatment and to create an equal form of therapeutic cooperation but in vein due to lack of formal structure and complexity of the knowledge. each practitioner has their own terminologies and ways of providing healing services unlike Knowledge generated from Modern medicine which is structured. Therefore, ATM knowledge is isolated and mistrusted yet a lot of knowledge is generated in the practices which could be used across the whole health sector. In addition, modern medicine alone does not provide whole health needs of patients and the drugs are characterized by having undesired side effects, ATM provides holistic health intervention. ATM treats the body, the mind and the spirit. There is need to come up with a better technology to handle this complex structure of medical knowledge which the current artificial Intelligent (AI) systems used in e-health cannot manage. The model developed bush the backend of AI to handle complexity in medical knowledge. The work was supervised by Assoc Prof. Gilbert Maiga and Dr George Wiiliam Okori.


ATUHURIIRE Marriette Katarahweire
ATUHURIIRE Marriette Katarahweire

ATUHURIIRE Marriette Katarahweire
Form-based Data Security in Mobile Health Data Collection Systems in Low-Resource Settings

Ms. ATUHURIIRE Marriette Katarahweire investigated security challenges in mobile health data collection systems deployed in low-resource settings. It was found out that data in MHDCS are diverse and have varying security requirements depending on their sensitivity levels. Particular emphasis was on incorporating security controls early in the development process through electronic forms to be used for data collection, and according to sensitivity levels of the data. A data sensitivity model was developed that takes into consideration both static and dynamic parameters for data sensitivity and categorizes data into different sensitivity levels using parameters defined by the stakeholders. Use of the model enables developers to design and build mobile health data collection systems that adhere to the security goals of confidentiality, integrity and availability. This is expected to reduce the potential threats and increase the confidence and adoption of eHealth services. The study was funded by NORAD and was supervised by Assoc Prof Engineer Bainomugisha and Assoc Prof Khalid Azim Mughal.


KAMUKAMA Ismail
KAMUKAMA Ismail

KAMUKAMA Ismail
A model for spatial variability of typhoid disease incidences in Uganda

Mr. KAMUKAMA Ismail integrated clinical, environmental and demographic data to explore spatial variability of typhoid disease incidences in Uganda for the period 2012 to 2017 using data science method. The study first explored spatial-temporal trends and distribution patterns of typhoid disease incidences at both regional and national levels in order to gain initial disease burden insights in the population. The study then revealed highest incidences and clustering of the disease in the central region, followed by Western, Eastern and Northern regions throughout the study period. Geographically Weighted Regression model revealed that poor handwashing practice was mainly influencing disease occurrences in Northwestern, Northern and Northeastern parts of the country. Excessive rainfall was most responsible for disease occurrences in the Eastern, Central and Southern parts of the country. Poor drainage was mainly influencing disease occurrences in the Western, Central and Southern parts of the country. This knowledge is essential for planners and decision-makers to: efficiently plan, enforce preventive measures and make targeted interventions, which eventually reduce disease surveillance costs. The study was funded by SIDA and supervised by Assoc Prof. Gilbert Maiga, Dr. Denis Ssebuggwawo and Dr. Peter Nabende.


KAMULEGEYA Grace Bugembe
KAMULEGEYA Grace Bugembe

KAMULEGEYA Grace Bugembe
Characterization of Practices and Measurements in Software Start-ups in an Emerging Ecosystem

Mr. KAMULEGEYA Grace Bugembe, through case studies investigated and characterized software hub operations and software start-up practices, and growth-tracking metrics in the emerging East Africa start-up ecosystem. His study characterized the operations of hubs in East Africa as not much had been established about how hubs nurture software start-ups. He also established that software start-ups indeed measured but adopted and adapted some practices and metrics used in start-ups in developed ecosystems. He designed and developed a progress measurement dashboard that start-ups can use to monitor their key growth metrics. He also iteratively derived 10 dimensions that can be used to influence and distinguish metrics used in software start-ups and mature software companies. The compiled hub practices can be used by existing and new hubs to benchmark their operations against the successful hubs in the East African region. The growth metrics will enable software start-ups to track the important aspects of their businesses in the different stages as they grow. This study was funded by SIDA and Supervised by Prof Regina Hebig and Dr. Raymond Mugwanya.


MBABAZI Ruth Mutebi
MBABAZI Ruth Mutebi

MBABAZI Ruth Mutebi
Designing Persuasive Technologies For Societal Benefit: A Persuasive Technology For Fighting Electricity Theft In Kampala, Uganda

Ms. MBABAZI Ruth Mutebi studied persuasive technology design frameworks, with the aim of developing a technology that could aid in reducing electricity theft in Kampala Uganda. After conducting a survey, Ruth found that electricity consumers are not willing to fight electricity theft, despite its’ negative impact on them. She was modified Fogg’s Eight Step Process using design theory resulting into the Design Theory-Fogg’s Eight Step Process (DT-FESP). This was used to develop a persuasive mobile application to increase willingness to participate in fighting electricity theft called, “Faayo” Evaluation of “Faayo” showed that it had potential to persuade electricity consumers. The research demonstrated the feasibility of persuasive technologies and recommended that Umeme includes them in their electricity theft mitigation strategies. The study was funded by SIDA and was supervised by Dr Julianne Sansa-Otim and Prof. Sebitosi Ben.


NAKASI Rose
NAKASI Rose

NAKASI Rose
Automated Diagnosis of Malaria in Thick Blood Smear Films: Deep Neural Network Approach

Ms. NAKASI Rose investigated how deep learning algorithms can be used for the automated detection of malaria and its parasitemia determination in microscopic thick blood smear images. Using an experimental design, the study revealed that by exploiting recent technological advances in 3D printing and deep learning to produce effective hardware and software respectively, a functioning point-of-care diagnosis system for malaria on this principle, capable of running on multiple microscopes and phone combinations can be produced. A malaria parasite detection accuracy of over 98% as compared to conventional machine learning methods was achieved. This study contributes to the practical improved malaria diagnosis especially in highly endemic, but low-resource settings in the Sub-Saharan Africa, where there are few trained lab experts. Further, the diagnostic solutions developed in this study could be adapted for the general microscopy disease diagnosis. The study was funded by SIDA, and was supervised by Dr. Ernest Mwebaze and Dr. Aminah Zawedde.


NAMUJUZI Sylvia
NAMUJUZI Sylvia

NAMUJUZI Sylvia
Management of Agriculture Archives in National Agricultural Research Institutes in Uganda

Ms. NAMUJUZI Sylvia investigated gaps in the management of agriculture archives in National Agricultural Research Institutes (NARIs) particularly, documentation, maintenance and access. Using case study and descriptive designs, the study established that various agriculture archives existed in NARIs according to their specialties, but were largely in paper format including: Maps, Datasets, Institutional correspondences, Photographs and Government Acts and legislations, among others. However, most of these archival materials were not processed, classified, accessioned and catalogued leading to poor documentation, maintenance and access. Two major outputs of this study were: an evaluated Agriculture Archives Management Framework for closing the gaps and an Agriculture Archives Monitoring and Evaluation Tool for continuous process improvements in agriculture archives management. Further, the framework and the evaluation tool could be adopted by other Agricultural Institutions for the general management of agriculture archives in their possession. The study was funded by Carnegie and was supervised by Prof. Robert Ikoja-Odongo and Dr. Mary Basaasa Muhenda.


SANYA Rahman
SANYA Rahman

SANYA Rahman
Predicting Infectious Disease Density in Urban Settings using Convolutional Neural Networks

Mr. SANYA Rahman’s thesis explored applications of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) for modeling and analyzing spatial dynamics of human infectious diseases in low-income urban settings. This work integrates multiple and diverse data sources including housing density signals (used as proxy for indoor overcrowding) extracted from remote sensing satellite imagery, and socio-economic well-being, as predictors for disease density. Using Tuberculosis (TB) disease data from Uganda, the study found that CNN were promising for detecting and quantifying patterns in infectious disease density. This work is the first of its kind in exploring possibilities afforded by advances in deep learning algorithms and remote sensing data to enhance understanding of infectious disease processes. By doing so, it has expanded the frontiers of methods available for digital epidemiology. The study was funded by the African Development Bank and supervised by Dr. Ernest Mwebaze and Assoc Prof Gilbert Maiga.


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Computing & IS

CoCIS Biannual Newsletter Jan-Jun 2024

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Block A of the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, with foliage in the foreground, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The College of Computing and Information Sciences(CoCIS) is pleased to introduce to you the first biannual newsletter (January- June 2024). The issue highlights major achievements recorded in the period under review. We have made tangible progress towards the achievement of our goals. On behalf of the management of CoCIS, I thank you for your dedicated service.

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EASLIS Holds 2-Day Pedagogical Re-Orientation Workshop For LIS/RAM Teaching Professionals

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The Principal CoCIS-Prof. Tonny Oyana (2nd Left) with the Dean EASLIS-Dr. Sarah Kaddu (Left) and other participants at the workshop held 18th-19th June 2024. East Africa School of Library and Information Science (EASLIS), College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) Library & Information Science (LIS), and Records and Archives Management (RAM) Teaching Professionals Pedagogical Re-Orientation Workshop, 18th – 19th June, 2024, Block B, CoCIS, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The East Africa School of Library and Information Science (EASLIS) last week (18th – 19th June, 2024) held a two day Library & Information Science (LIS), and Records and Archives Management (RAM) Teaching Professionals Pedagogical Re-Orientation Workshop.

The event held at Makerere University College of Computing and Information Sciences (Mak CoCIS), Block B attracted a number of teaching staff at various ranks from Ugandan universities, and the region at large.

In his opening Remarks, the Principal-CoCIS; Prof. Tony Oyana thanked the leadership of EASLIS for holding such an important workshop aimed at improving teaching and learning. He emphasized the importance of pedagogical orientation for teaching staff noting that good subject matter knowledge and good research does not directly translate into good teaching.

Prof. Tonny Oyana, the Mak CoCIS Principal giving his remarks. East Africa School of Library and Information Science (EASLIS), College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) Library & Information Science (LIS), and Records and Archives Management (RAM) Teaching Professionals Pedagogical Re-Orientation Workshop, 18th – 19th June, 2024, Block B, CoCIS, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Tonny Oyana, the Mak CoCIS Principal giving his remarks.

He also highlighted a number of other important aspects that contribute to effective learning, including the need to create conducive learning environments, emotional intelligence through the ability to understand and relate to the learners and called for the need to deal away with challenge of superiority attitudes manifested in the by some African scholars that sometimes impedes free interaction with learners thereby affecting effective teaching.

A cross-section of workshop participants. East Africa School of Library and Information Science (EASLIS), College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) Library & Information Science (LIS), and Records and Archives Management (RAM) Teaching Professionals Pedagogical Re-Orientation Workshop, 18th – 19th June, 2024, Block B, CoCIS, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A cross-section of workshop participants.

He noted that everybody has a propensity to learn, but that people learn at different paces hence the need to give attention to every learner. He also emphasized the need for teaching staff to appreciate cultural diversity in learning environments.

The Dean-EASLIS, Dr. Sarah Kaddu giving an overview of workshop noted that the workshop aimed at achieving the following objectives;

Dr. Sarah Kaddu, the EASLIS Dean giving her remarks. East Africa School of Library and Information Science (EASLIS), College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) Library & Information Science (LIS), and Records and Archives Management (RAM) Teaching Professionals Pedagogical Re-Orientation Workshop, 18th – 19th June, 2024, Block B, CoCIS, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Sarah Kaddu, the EASLIS Dean giving her remarks.
  1. Improved teacher-student support, relations and classroom management
  2. Better alignment of course goals, instructional strategies, objectives
  3. Improved lecture planning, content delivery and course evaluation
  4. Enhanced knowledge and skills in content sourcing and preparation
  5. Partnership brokerage and networking among LIS/RAM professionals in Uganda and in the region.
Dr. Rebecca Nambi, one of the workshop facilitators during one of the sessions. East Africa School of Library and Information Science (EASLIS), College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) Library & Information Science (LIS), and Records and Archives Management (RAM) Teaching Professionals Pedagogical Re-Orientation Workshop, 18th – 19th June, 2024, Block B, CoCIS, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Rebecca Nambi, one of the workshop facilitators during one of the sessions.

The participatory workshop was facilitated by Dr. Josephine Najjemba, Dr. Rebecca Nambi, and Dr. Kajumbula; a team of experienced staff in pedagogy training from Makerere University College of Education and External Studies, School of Education.

Dr. Josephine Najjemba, one of the workshop facilitators during one of the sessions. East Africa School of Library and Information Science (EASLIS), College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) Library & Information Science (LIS), and Records and Archives Management (RAM) Teaching Professionals Pedagogical Re-Orientation Workshop, 18th – 19th June, 2024, Block B, CoCIS, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Josephine Najjemba, one of the workshop facilitators during one of the sessions.

The workshop presentations focused on the following areas:

  1. Education Foundations – Teaching Philosophies
  2. Education Foundations – Learning Theories
  3. Pedagogical Models: Teacher Centered vs. Learner Centered Strategies
  4. Teacher and Learners Roles in the Learner-Centered Pedagogy (LCP)
  5. Leadership in pedagogical practice
  6. Assessment: Principles of Assessment, and
  7. Technology enhanced learning

The workshop concluded with a plenary session, and award of certificates to the participants.

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Uganda Launches AI Health Lab at Makerere University

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Left to Right: Prof. Edward Bbaale, Dr. Rose Nakasi, PS MoICT & NG Dr. Amina Zawedde and Prof. Tonny Oyana after unveiling the AI Health Lab on 30th May 2024. Launch of AI Health Lab, Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

In a significant stride towards enhancing healthcare through technology, the Government of Uganda, in collaboration with Makerere University, has inaugurated the Artificial Intelligence Health Lab. This pioneering initiative aims to revolutionize healthcare delivery using artificial intelligence (AI), marking a crucial advancement for the nation. The lab is situated in Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences

The Guest of Honor, University Management team and Panelists Cutting cake. Launch of AI Health Lab, Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Guest of Honor, University Management team and Panelists Cutting cake.

Launching the lab on 30th May 2024, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance,  Dr. Aminah Zawedde  highlighted the importance of this development. “Today marks a momentous occasion as we unveil the Artificial Intelligence Health Lab at Makerere University. This milestone signifies not just a step forward for the university but for our entire nation as we enter an era of innovation and advancement in healthcare through artificial intelligence,” she remarked.

Dr. Zawedde emphasized the transformative power of AI in healthcare, noting its potential to revolutionize diagnostics, treatment plans, and personalized care. She acknowledged the government’s ongoing efforts to integrate AI into healthcare through initiatives like telemedicine platforms, health data analytics, and AI-driven solutions in medical imaging and drug discovery.

However, she stressed the need for ethical and responsible AI deployment, addressing algorithmic biases, patient privacy, and equitable distribution of AI benefits.

Dr. Aminah Zawedde delivering her speech. Launch of AI Health Lab, Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Aminah Zawedde delivering her speech.

“The Ministry of ICT & National Guidance is committed to supporting AI adoption in healthcare through policy guidance, financial support, capacity building, and infrastructure development,” Dr. Zawedde stated. She called for collaboration among government agencies, academia, healthcare providers, and technology partners to advance AI initiatives responsibly.

Government Emphasizes Homegrown Solutions and Digital Priorities

Dr. Aminah Zawedde,  highlighted the importance of prioritizing locally developed solutions to better understand and effectively address national challenges. She outlined five key priorities for Uganda’s digital transition, focusing on infrastructure, accessibility, digital services, cybersecurity, data protection, privacy, digital skilling, and innovation.

Regarding infrastructure and connectivity, the government aims to expand coverage to 70% of the country within the next five years, with ongoing projects supported by the World Bank and China. This initiative targets essential institutions like schools, hospitals, administrative offices, and innovation hubs.

A section of participants attending the function. Launch of AI Health Lab, Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A section of participants attending the function.

Ensuring accessibility of gadgets, particularly smartphones, is another critical focus area. Recognizing the importance of these devices for accessing digital technologies and apps, efforts are underway to lower costs through measures such as tax waivers and local manufacturing.

Additionally, the government is prioritizing the transition of services online to enhance efficiency, transparency, accountability, and ease of doing business. This move aligns with existing regulations and guidelines for digital transformation, with an emphasis on overcoming implementation challenges related to financial resources, capacity, and awareness creation.

Cybersecurity, data protection, and privacy are also paramount, with plans to develop trusted systems to safeguard digital infrastructure and user information. Furthermore, digital skilling initiatives aim to equip end-users and office management with the necessary skills for effective digital operations.

Finally, the government emphasizes innovation and entrepreneurship, celebrating community-driven solutions that are sustainable, acceptable, and impactful. This focus underscores the commitment to fostering a thriving ecosystem of innovation that addresses the needs of Ugandan society.

Ministry of Health  Highlights Urgent Need for AI in Ugandan Healthcare

Dr. Myers Lugemwa from the National Malaria Control Program presented a compelling case for the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in Uganda’s healthcare system. Addressing the current health challenges and the potential of AI, Dr. Lugemwa underscored the transformative impact these technologies could have on disease diagnosis and management.

Dr. Myres Lugemwa speaking. Launch of AI Health Lab, Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Myres Lugemwa speaking.

“Globally, low-income countries face a higher burden of communicable diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS,” Dr. Lugemwa noted. “Despite a significant global decline in these diseases, they remain prevalent in countries like Uganda, where communicable diseases account for over 50% of morbidity and mortality.”

Malaria diagnostics primarily rely on tools like mRDTs, blood slide microscopy, and PCR tests, which are either expensive or not widely available. Similar challenges exist for other diseases such as cancer, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and intestinal parasites, which are diagnosed through methods that may not be accessible at lower-level health centers.

Dr. Lugemwa highlighted the promise of Makerere University’s AI Health-Lab in addressing these diagnostic challenges. “AI tools could revolutionize the accuracy and accessibility of disease diagnosis,” he said. “From improving malaria diagnostics to streamlining cancer screening and diagnosis, AI has the potential to transform healthcare delivery in Uganda.”

Furthermore, Dr. Lugemwa discussed the role of AI in predicting disease patterns affected by climate change, such as malaria, and the importance of electronic health records (EHRs) in improving patient management and healthcare delivery.

“In summary, AI Health-Lab is poised to be a game-changer for Uganda’s healthcare system,” Dr. Lugemwa emphasized. “It aligns with Makerere University’s mission to ‘Build For the Future’ and addresses the Alma-Ata Declaration’s call for local tools that are readily available, accessible, affordable, and user-friendly. The integration of AI in healthcare is not just a technological advancement but a critical necessity for improving health outcomes in Uganda.” Lugema stressed

Makerere University’s Role

Representing Makerere University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Edward Bbaale, Director of the Directorate of Graduate Research and Training, expressed pride in the university’s achievements. He underscored Makerere’s proactive steps in promoting AI, including establishing dedicated AI labs, integrating AI courses into the curriculum, and fostering partnerships.

Prof. Edward Bbaale representing the Vice Chancellor. Launch of AI Health Lab, Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Edward Bbaale representing the Vice Chancellor.

“The establishment of the AI Health Lab is the culmination of a vision that aligns with Makerere University’s mission to be a thought leader in research, innovation, and academic excellence,” Prof. Bbaale stated. He highlighted the lab’s role in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, with potential applications ranging from predictive models for disease outbreaks to personalized treatment plans.

Prof. Bbaale also lauded groundbreaking projects spearheaded by Makerere University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences. These include the AirQo project, which deploys low-cost air monitoring systems, and AI-based tools for agricultural disease tracking and medical diagnostics. Notably, the AI Lab, under Dr. Rose Nakasi’s leadership, secured a $1.5 million grant from Google for the Ocular project, automating diagnoses for Malaria, Tuberculosis, and Cervical Cancer.

To the students and researchers, Prof. Bbaale urged them to seize the opportunities presented by the AI Health Lab. “This lab is not just a facility; it is a beacon of possibilities. Engage deeply with the work, collaborate across disciplines, and be bold in your pursuit of solutions that can change the world,” he encouraged.

He also outlined the university’s commitment to moving the entire research value chain from conceptualization to commercialization, ensuring that research translates into products and services that benefit communities.

The launch of the AI Health Lab at Makerere University signifies a significant leap forward in Uganda’s healthcare sector. With continued support and collaboration, this initiative promises to harness the power of AI to improve health outcomes, making a tangible difference in the lives of many. As Dr. Zawedde concluded, “Let us embark on this journey with optimism and determination, knowing that our efforts today will shape the future of healthcare for generations to come.”Bbaale added

Makerere University’s AI Lab Announces Ambitious Plans for Healthcare Innovation

Makerere University’s AI Lab is embarking on an ambitious journey to revolutionize healthcare through advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Dr. Rose Nakasi, the project leader, unveiled the lab’s comprehensive strategy aimed at addressing critical health challenges and improving patient outcomes through innovative AI solutions and interdisciplinary collaboration.

PI Dr. Rose Nakasi making her remarks. Launch of AI Health Lab, Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
PI Dr. Rose Nakasi making her remarks.

In her presentation, Dr. Nakasi emphasized the lab’s vision of “Transforming Healthcare Through Innovative AI Solutions” and its mission “To drive innovation in artificial intelligence research to effectively address and overcome pressing health challenges.” The lab’s approach focuses on developing practical AI applications, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and deepening the understanding of AI’s transformative potential through rigorous research and evaluation.

Among the key projects highlighted by Dr. Nakasi is the Ocular Project, a decision support tool designed to reduce diagnosis time and improve accuracy. Supported by a recent $1.5 million grant from Google, this project aims to automate diagnoses for diseases such as Malaria, Tuberculosis, and Cervical Cancer. Additionally, the DS Malaria project focuses on in-field automated screening trials to enhance malaria diagnosis, while initiatives like curating datasets for malaria diagnostics and digital Pap smear images aim to improve the accuracy and efficiency of disease screening.

Looking ahead, Dr. Nakasi outlined the lab’s vision for continued innovation and growth, including addressing challenges in the health sector and collaborating with regulators to refine and develop new approaches for healthcare needs. She highlighted the lab’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of AI and healthcare experts, with a growing team of PhD and master’s students.

“With more innovation and focus, we aim to address the most pressing healthcare challenges and make a lasting impact on our communities,” Dr. Nakasi stated. Makerere University’s AI Lab, under her leadership, is poised to lead the way in integrating AI into healthcare, reflecting a strong commitment to leveraging technology for the betterment of society.

The opening ceremony was marked by a congratulatory address from the Principal College of Computing and Information Sciences Prof. Tonny Oyana, who lauded Dr. Rose Nakasi and her team for their exemplary research stewardship.

Prof. Tonny Oyana speaking during the launch. Launch of AI Health Lab, Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Tonny Oyana speaking during the launch.

Oyana said the inauguration of this facility marks a significant step forward in the college’s commitment to advancing research and development in artificial intelligence, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of technological innovation

“Congratulations to Dr. Rose Nakasi and her team for their excellent research stewardship,” Prof. Oyana stated. He emphasized the lab’s potential to serve as a dynamic environment for academic growth and experimentation. “Use the new lab to learn, test, grow, and nurture academic talent,” he urged the attendees.

Prof. Oyana also highlighted the lab’s role in promoting interdisciplinary activities. “Use the lab to carry out synergistic activities that promote AI in health,” he said, stressing the importance of integrating artificial intelligence with healthcare advancements.

The facility is expected to become a cornerstone for building sustainable academic and professional relationships. “Use the lab to grow enduring pipelines and long-lasting academic activities and friendships among students and scientists,” Prof. Oyana added.

The new AI research lab, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, aims to provide greater hope and opportunities for students and scientists. “Today, we open a new facility that will provide greater hope and opportunities for our students and scientists,” Prof. Oyana concluded.

Sunbird AI Highlights Potential and Pitfalls of AI for Social Good

Prof. John Quinn from Sunbird AI delivered insightful remarks on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) for social good, emphasizing both its potential benefits and the challenges that need to be addressed.

Prof. Quinn outlined several key areas where AI can have a substantial impact. He noted that AI can compensate for the scarcity of experts by providing critical support in fields such as healthcare and education. AI can also enhance data collection and analysis, aiding in better decision-making and resource allocation. Additionally, AI can be used to create detailed maps, aiding urban planning and noise pollution monitoring.

Prof. John Quinn speaking. Launch of AI Health Lab, Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. John Quinn speaking.

However, Prof. Quinn also highlighted various challenges and unintended consequences associated with AI deployment. He discussed the unexpected difficulties in implementing AI solutions, including technical and human factors.

Technical challenges include limitations of power, network, and devices, which may hinder the deployment of advanced AI technologies in many regions. Furthermore, comprehensive end-to-end solutions might be required, which can be complex and resource-intensive. The lifespan of AI projects can often outlast the typical lifespan of startups or academic projects, posing sustainability challenges. Ensuring long-term functionality and support for AI systems is crucial.

Human factors also play a significant role in the challenges faced by AI deployment. Identifying the right problem from a distance can be challenging, necessitating local insights and collaboration. Successful AI projects often require significant organizational effort beyond the technical work. Building and maintaining trust among various stakeholders is essential for effective collaboration.

Prof. Quinn also addressed the unintended consequences of AI implementation. He pointed out that AI systems can perpetuate or even exacerbate existing biases if not carefully designed and monitored. Without equitable access to AI technologies, existing inequalities can be deepened. Relying on new technologies can create vulnerabilities if the infrastructure is not robust. An excessive focus on prototyping, referred to as “pilotitis,” can consume resources without leading to scalable solutions. The introduction of AI technologies often brings new ethical dilemmas that need to be addressed. Additionally, issues with the quality and representativeness of training data can lead to inaccurate or biased AI models.

Prof. Quinn’s remarks underscored the dual-edged nature of AI in social applications. While AI has the potential to address significant challenges and improve lives, it also brings technical, organizational, and ethical challenges that must be navigated carefully. As AI continues to evolve, stakeholders must work collaboratively to harness its benefits while mitigating its risks.

Testimonials Highlight the Impact of AI in Healthcare Diagnostics

Alfred Andama, reflecting on the journey from 2014 to 2024, shared compelling testimonies from Mulago Hospital, Makerere University College of Health Sciences (MakCHS), and other lower health facilities regarding the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare diagnostics.

Dr. Andama Fred testifying on the potential of AI and acceptance at Mulago hospital. Launch of AI Health Lab, Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Andama Fred testifying on the potential of AI and acceptance at Mulago hospital.

He said Initial Target Diseases  primarily centered on malaria, tuberculosis, and intestinal parasites. During data collection at various labs, Andama and his team encountered enthusiastic groups of lab practitioners eager to embrace AI for improving diagnosis.

At health centers up to level III, where young lab technicians and technologists were predominant, the prospect of using mobile applications for diagnosis elicited genuine excitement.

Andama confirmed the feasibility of utilizing smartphones at the lowest levels for diagnosis, addressing a crucial question raised by stakeholders.

“Clinicians expressed interest in the reliability and accuracy of AI-driven diagnosis tools. They sought clarity on decision-making processes compared to human judgments.

Health administrators were concerned about personnel shortages and how AI could alleviate the burden. The adoption of AI microscopy could potentially reduce the time spent on malaria smear microscopy by 25%.” Said Andama

Policy-makers  according to Andama focused on affordability and feasibility, particularly for rural areas. The adaptability of AI tools to existing smartphone and microscope infrastructure was seen as a promising solution.

The discussion he said, expanded to the potential deployment of AI in sickle cell diagnosis, blood cancers, urinary tract infections, and respiratory disease smears, indicating broader applications beyond the initial scope.

He reported that  Mulago hospital under the College of Health Sciences is already utilizing AI in various capacities, such as analyzing cough samples to differentiate between tuberculosis patients and those with normal cough.

Andama’s testimonies underscore the growing acceptance and implementation of AI in healthcare diagnostics, promising improved efficiency and accuracy in disease detection and treatment.

A panel of experts during the panel discussions. Launch of AI Health Lab, Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A panel of experts during the panel discussions.

The inauguration was highlighted by panel discussions and plenary sessions on “Leveraging AI for a Healthier Future: Practical Solutions for Africa.” Notable speakers included Prof. Micheal Kawooya, Director of ECUREI; Assoc. Prof. Engineer Bainomugisha, Head of the Department of Computer Science at Makerere University; Mr. Sumba Solomon from the Ocular Project; Ms. Sylivia Nabukenya from the Infectious Disease Institute at Makerere University, Dr. Joyce Nakatumba Nabende  of the AI Research Lab; and Lwasa Baker from Rocket Health.

Dean EASLIS and Panelist (Left Behind row) and Seated (Left to Right) Prof. Edward Bbaale, Dr. Rose Nakasi and Prof Tony Oyana in photo moment with the Chief Guest (2nd Left) after the official opening. Launch of AI Health Lab, Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dean EASLIS and Panelist (Left Behind row) and Seated (Left to Right) Prof. Edward Bbaale, Dr. Rose Nakasi and Prof Tony Oyana in photo moment with the Chief Guest (2nd Left) after the official opening.
The participants pose for a group photo with the PI Dr. Rose Nakasi. Launch of AI Health Lab, Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The participants pose for a group photo with the PI Dr. Rose Nakasi.

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