URSB, WIPO move to boost intellectual property awareness in Ugandan universities
The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), in partnership with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), has launched a series of roving seminars at universities across Uganda under the Technology Innovation Support Centres (TISCs) initiative.This initiative aligns with the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) and aims to raise awareness and understanding of intellectual property (IP) rights among students, researchers, and innovators in higher education institutions nationwide.The seminars serve as a platform to educate participants on the importance of IP protection, particularly patents, and provide practical insights into the patent application process.By doing so, they empower young entrepreneurs and inventors to confidently navigate the complexities of intellectual property and protect their innovations.Experts from URSB and WIPO engage participants in interactive discussions, presentations, and case studies during the seminars, helping them effectively grasp the basics of intellectual property management.These sessions emphasize real-world applications, enabling participants to understand how intellectual property can play a crucial role in commercializing their ideas and enhancing their competitive edge in the market.The seminars cover a range of topics, including the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), the significance of patents for universities and research institutions, strategies for using patents to obtain commercial returns, and accessing patent information.Participants also learn from success stories that highlight the practical benefits of robust IP management.Nyalleng Pii, Senior Program Officer at WIPO’s PCT International Cooperation Division, stated that the seminars aim to inspire innovators and creators in Uganda by promoting an inclusive global IP ecosystem through success stories and best practices.Gilbert Agaba, Director of Intellectual Property at URSB, noted that participants would benefit from ongoing guidance and support from URSB and WIPO experts, as well as dedicated assistance with challenging issues, including using WIPO’s tools and services.The roving seminars also foster collaboration between universities and the private sector, promoting an ecosystem that supports innovation.By connecting academic institutions with industry stakeholders, the initiative encourages knowledge exchange and paves the way for potential partnerships that could lead to groundbreaking developments.The inaugural seminar was held at Busitema University, with subsequent sessions planned for Makerere University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology.Through the TISCs initiative, young innovators are equipped with essential tools to protect their creations and succeed in their entrepreneurial ventures.This partnership between URSB and WIPO not only strengthens Uganda’s intellectual property framework but also contributes to building a vibrant ecosystem that fosters creativity and economic growth.https://www.ugbulletin.co.ug/ursb-wipo-move-to-boost-intellectual-property-awareness-in-ugandan-universities/
News
Ugandan Citizen Abducted, Held in Secret Detention for Three Months, Sparks Outrage and Calls for Justice
A disturbing new case of unlawful detention has surfaced, highlighting the ongoing human rights crisis in Uganda. A Ugandan citizen was reportedly abducted and held in a secret facility, known as a “safe house,” for three months, only to be released without charge or explanation. This incident, reported by NTV Uganda, has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed calls for accountability regarding human rights abuses in the country.
While the details surrounding the abduction remain unclear, reports indicate that the individual was taken without due process and held incommunicado—an action that has long been condemned by human rights organizations. The victim’s release, with no charges filed and no clear justification, has angered activists and citizens, who view this as yet another case of egregious abuse of power by the state.
“This is a recurring pattern,” said one human rights activist. “Abductions, secret detentions, and unexplained releases have become all too common in Uganda. These acts violate fundamental human rights and erode public trust in the justice system.”
The use of “safe houses,” unregistered detention facilities reportedly operated by security forces, has been a focal point in numerous allegations of torture and illegal imprisonment. Despite repeated calls from both local and international organizations for their closure and accountability for those involved, little action has been taken to address these violations.
This case underscores the urgent need for reform within Uganda’s security apparatus and greater accountability for human rights abuses. Observers hope that drawing attention to these injustices will spur concrete action to bring those responsible to justice and ensure the protection of basic human rights.
As frustration mounts, calls for both domestic and international pressure to hold the government accountable for such crimes grow louder. “One day, there must be accountability for all these crimes against our people,” stated one social media user, reflecting the sentiments of many Ugandans.
National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi has accused Ugandan security forces of using excessive force to disrupt a planned NUP gathering. The allegations were detailed in a statement shared on Twitter, following an event held to honor children of NUP supporters who were killed, disappeared, or detained for their political beliefs.
According to Kyagulanyi, security personnel, under the command of an officer identified as Asiimwe, carried out a preemptive operation early in the morning upon learning of the NUP’s plans. The forces allegedly stormed the premises, arrested workers, and deployed tear gas to disperse those present.
“The criminals under the command of one Asiimwe deployed early morning, arrested our workers, and threw tear gas into our premises. They’ve cordoned off the premises and blocked all people from accessing the place,” Kyagulanyi wrote.
Among those reportedly arrested were Saava Peter, Mudenya Samson, and Turyasingura Samson. Kyagulanyi claimed the detained workers were subjected to beatings and interrogated about their political affiliations, with security operatives labeling them as terrorists.
“These JATT operatives asked the workers who they support politically, branding them terrorists and criminals—their only crime being that they work with us. You can imagine the indignity!” Kyagulanyi lamented.
This incident adds to the growing tension in Uganda’s political climate, where opposition parties frequently accuse the government of stifling dissent. Despite the challenges, Kyagulanyi ended his statement with a message of defiance and optimism, proclaiming, “UGANDA WILL BE FREE.”
NUP Gathering Disrupted: Kyagulanyi Alleges Security Force Harassment and Arrests
News
Sudan Demands Apology from Uganda Over Army Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s Threat to Invade Khartoum
Sudan has demanded an official apology from Uganda over “offensive and dangerous” comments made by the chief of Uganda army staff, who threated to invade Khartoum, the Sudan Tribune has reported.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and CDF of the Ugandan army, posted two comments on the X platform on Tuesday in which he threatened “to capture Khartoum” with the support of the US President elect Donald Trump after he takes office. The posts were deleted later.
“The government of Sudan demands and official apology from the Ugandan government for the offensive and dangerous comments of the army commander,” Sudan’s foreign ministry said in a statement that the Sudan Tribune said it has seen.
Sudan Demands Apology from Uganda Over Army Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s Threat to Invade Khartoum