TIKA Hands Over State-of-the-Art Biomedical Research Laboratory to KIU

By Hattie Wright

KIU, Main Campus - On Tuesday, October 13th 2026, Kampala International University (KIU) received a significant boost to its research and innovation agenda following the handover of a renovated Biomedical Research Laboratory and specialised scientific equipment by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA).

The infrastructure and equipment support, provided through a TIKA grant, is expected to strengthen KIU's research capacity, enhance practical science education, and contribute to innovations that address pressing societal and health challenges.

Representing Prof. Ngoma Muhammed Vice Chancellor, Dr. Mustafa Mundu, Deputy Vice Chancellor Finance and Administration, expressed appreciation to TIKA for its continued partnership with the university. He noted that the upgraded facility would strengthen science teaching, expand research opportunities, and support the generation of new knowledge.

Dr. Mundu highlighted the longstanding collaboration between KIU and the Republic of Türkiye, particularly through staff and student exchange programmes and joint academic initiatives.

"The university has continued to create a conducive environment for teaching, research and innovation. As we celebrate Innovation Week, this laboratory provides an important platform that will enable our students and researchers to become even more innovative and impactful," he said.

Representing Hon. Dr. Hassan Basajjabalaba, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Ambrose Kibuuka, Board Member described the project as a testament to the strong partnership between KIU and Türkiye.

"This partnership reminds us that we live in one world and share a common humanity. KIU's vision has always been to establish a hub of excellence in science and technology in Africa, and this support aligns perfectly with that vision," he noted.

Dr. Kibuuka encouraged academic staff to actively pursue research grants and strengthen teamwork in order to generate impactful research outcomes that address societal needs.

Providing a background to the partnership, Prof. Regina Ejemot Nwadiaro, Deputy Vice Chancellor for the Directorate of Research, Innovations, Consultancy and Extensions (DRICE), explained that collaboration between KIU and TIKA dates back to June 2025 when the university explored opportunities for strategic engagement with the Turkish agency.

She revealed that KIU subsequently developed and submitted five proposals focusing on preventive healthcare, health systems strengthening, nanotechnology, biomedical research infrastructure, and emerging technologies, including a 3D Printer Laboratory.

Prof. Nwadiaro described the handover ceremony as a transformation of diplomatic goodwill into institutional capacity, creating practical opportunities for advancing science, innovation and human development.

"The value of these facilities will not be measured solely by the equipment installed, but by the knowledge generated, the researchers empowered, the innovations developed, and the societal challenges addressed," she said.

Murat Cetin, TIKA Uganda Country Director, said the Biomedical Research Laboratory would serve as a pathway to greater academic and research success for students and researchers.

"We believe this laboratory will open new opportunities for innovation, scientific discovery and international collaboration," he noted.

Hon. Iddi Basajjabalaba, Member of Parliament for Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality, challenged students to utilise the facility to develop innovative solutions to contemporary challenges. He further urged universities to increase investment in Artificial Intelligence (AI) training and research to prepare learners for emerging global opportunities.

"Innovation should be driven by current and future realities. Artificial Intelligence is transforming industries worldwide, and our students must be equipped with the necessary skills to lead that transformation," he said.

Dr. Asiat Mbabazi, University Secretary, described the donation as an investment in knowledge creation, scientific research, innovation and the future of KIU students.

"This laboratory will significantly enhance practical training and strengthen research capacity in science-related disciplines. We are grateful to TIKA for their confidence in KIU and for choosing to partner with us in advancing research and innovation," she remarked.

The handover of the Biomedical Research Laboratory marks another milestone in KIU's journey towards becoming a leading centre of excellence in research, innovation and scientific advancement. Beyond improving teaching and learning, the facility is expected to empower researchers, foster interdisciplinary collaboration and generate solutions to real-world challenges. 

The partnership between KIU and TIKA demonstrates the power of international cooperation in strengthening higher education institutions and advancing sustainable societal development.

About TIKA

The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) is the official development cooperation agency of the Republic of Türkiye. Established in 1992, TIKA implements development projects across the world with a focus on education, healthcare, agriculture, vocational training, institutional capacity building and humanitarian assistance.

In Uganda, TIKA has supported numerous initiatives aimed at improving educational infrastructure, strengthening healthcare services, enhancing agricultural productivity and empowering communities through skills development. 

Through its partnerships with public institutions and universities such as KIU, TIKA continues to contribute to sustainable development, knowledge sharing and international cooperation for the benefit of communities across Uganda.