The Faculty of Applied Science and Technology at Mbarara University of Science & Technology embarked on the one-month (July 2025) curriculum development for master’s and PhD programs in electrical and electronics engineering headed by Associate Prof. Nathalia Peixoto, with the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at George Mason University, United States.
Her visit marks a new chapter in MUST’s pursuit of academic excellence, innovation, and global collaboration.
A Warm Welcome to a Strategic Partnership
Upon her arrival, Associate Prof. Peixoto was warmly received at a welcome dinner hosted by the MUST IUC-UCoBS team. Project Manager Ms. Lydia Asiimwe delivered opening remarks, offering her an overview of the university’s vision and the core objectives of the IUC-UCoBS partnership, which focuses on building capacity in applied science, technology, and sustainable development.
Advancing Curriculum for Future Engineers
The primary aim of Prof. Peixoto’s fellowship is to review and enhance the undergraduate and PhD curricula within the EEE department at MUST. Her mission is clear: to improve student learning outcomes and align academic programs with both industry demands and the university’s broader mission.
Two key strategies she is bringing to the table include
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Introducing more hands-on, practical learning opportunities to bridge theory and real-world application.
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Increasing community engagement through projects and partnerships that connect students with societal challenges.
These enhancements aim to produce well-rounded graduates who are not only technically skilled but also community-conscious and innovation-driven.
Collaborative Effort Across the Faculty
During her stay, Prof. Peixoto is closely working with:
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Dr. Johnes Obungoloch (PhD) and Dr. Denis Bbosa (PhD) – Deans of Faculty
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Ms. Addah Kyarisiima AK – Head of the EEE Department
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Faculty members across disciplines committed to evolving the engineering programs into centers of excellence.
Building Labs, Building Futures
Special recognition goes to Mr. Ziine John, whose initiative laid the foundation for this academic collaboration. Through the generosity of Prof. Peixoto, the EEE laboratory has now been equipped with a variety of essential electronic components for experimental learning, a critical step toward improving practical training and research capacity.
Gratitude for Support and Engagement
A heartfelt thanks is extended to MUST IUC-UCoBS Subproject 5 for their continuous engagement and support in making this collaboration possible.
This partnership not only enhances the academic structure of MUST’s engineering programs but also symbolizes the university’s growing global footprint in science and technology education. As the curriculum takes shape, the real beneficiaries will be the students, engineers in the making, ready to innovate for Uganda and the world.
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