On 03/02/2024,the MUST UCoBS Subproject 5 team visited the MUBS Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Incubation Center and Makerere UniPod to benchmark best practices for the upcoming MUST Entrepreneurship Center. The delegation included Dr. Tumuhimbise Manasseh, Dr. Kule Baguma, Dr. Sarah Nabachwa, Ms. Nambogo Nuriat, Mr. Kahagane Geoffrey, and Miss Keitesi Aisha,(from MUST) and Mr.Thijs Martens,Mr.Randy,Miss Sam and Miss Lein(Howest University)
During the visit, the MUST delegation explored the different programs and interacted with key stakeholders to understand the operational frameworks that have contributed to MUBS’s success. They observed how the MUBS center integrates mentorship and hands-on market experiences to create a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem. One of the most notable aspects was the Business Academy, which offers targeted training for startups and facilitates networking between students and industry professionals. The Apprenticeship Program was also of great interest, as it allows students to gain practical work experience through local and international placements. The delegation also visited Makerere UniPod, a co-working space dedicated to innovation and enterprise development, which reinforced the importance of collaborative environments for fostering creativity and business growth.
This benchmarking visit provided valuable insights that will inform the development of the MUST Entrepreneurship Center, which is currently under construction. By adopting best practices from MUBS and Makerere UniPod, MUST aims to create an ecosystem that nurtures student startups, supports business development, and enhances employability through experiential learning. The team returned with actionable strategies, including integrating a mentorship program, establishing a structured business academy, and creating market engagement opportunities for student entrepreneurs. As the construction of the MUST Entrepreneurship Center progresses, these insights will play a crucial role in shaping a vibrant and sustainable entrepreneurial hub for students and the broader community.
