DAAD Promotes Study and Research Opportunities in Germany at EU–Uganda Fair 2026

On 8 October 2026, Makerere University’s Freedom Square buzzed with activity as the EU–Uganda Research and Study Fair brought together close to 3000 young people, universities, research institutions and international partners under the theme “Young People, Skills and Opportunities.”

Organised as part of the celebrations marking 50 years of EU–Uganda cooperation, the fair featured nine European Union Member States and Ugandan education and research institutions.

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) joined the German Embassy in Uganda and other EU Member States as part of Team Europe to connect aspiring scholars and researchers with opportunities to study and conduct research in Germany.

Investing in young people for a brighter future

Opening the event, Uganda’s Acting Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Dr John C. Muyingo, emphasised the importance of investing in young people and equipping them with the skills to contribute to national development.

EU Ambassador to Uganda, Hon. Jan Sadek, highlighted the role of education, research and skills in tackling challenges such as climate change, public health, food security and digital transformation.

Makerere University Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sarah E. N. Ssali, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with European universities and research institutions to advance academic exchange, innovation and research.

Exploring opportunities to study in Germany

For many visitors, the fair provided a valuable opportunity to learn about international study pathways and scholarship programmes.

During the session “How to Study in Europe: Step by Step,” representatives from nine European countries, scholarship programmes and Ugandan institutions shared practical guidance on studying abroad.

Representing DAAD, Dr Christine Wandolo joined fellow speakers in highlighting the importance of reliable information and understanding programme requirements when planning international studies.

DAAD supports academic exchange by providing information on study and research opportunities, scholarships and cooperation between universities in Germany and around the world. At the DAAD stand, visitors could ask questions and learn more about pursuing their academic goals in Germany.

Research partnerships addressing real-world challenges

The afternoon session, “Doing Research with European Partners,” shifted the focus to international research collaboration and its contribution to development.

Presentations showcased research addressing practical challenges, including climate-smart agriculture, drought-resilient coffee varieties, soil management, public health, climate adaptation and environmental sustainability.

The “Research in Action – Pitch Session” gave researchers a platform to present ideas with the potential to improve communities and strengthen institutions. Topics included improving health services, promoting university sustainability and developing innovative approaches to climate adaptation. DAAD alumnus and current ICIR scholar Innocent Muhwezi joined fellow researchers in presenting their work and highlighting how research can contribute to practical solutions for real-world challenges.

These examples demonstrated how partnerships between Ugandan and European institutions can connect research with practical solutions while strengthening local research capacity.

Building bridges for the next generation

The strong turnout reflected young people’s interest in developing their skills, pursuing higher education and engaging in international research. The fair created opportunities to exchange ideas, build connections and explore pathways for academic and professional growth.

As Uganda and the European Union celebrate five decades of cooperation, education and research remain essential to building future partnerships and addressing shared challenges.

For DAAD, the event reaffirmed the value of connecting aspiring scholars and researchers with opportunities in Germany and fostering international academic cooperation.

Interested in studying or conducting research in Germany? Explore study programmes, scholarships and research opportunities at www.daad-kenya.org.