From 22nd to 24th April 2025, the MUST/IUC UCoBS Sub-Projects 5 and 1 jointly hosted a 3-Day Synergy Bootcamp in collaboration with the Ankole Cow Cultural Conservation Association (ACCCA) and the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). The bootcamp aimed to generate youth-driven business solutions that promote cultural conservation, innovation, and sustainable development.
The event brought together interdisciplinary student teams from Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) and Bishop Stuart University (BSU). Over three days, participants engaged in intensive ideation, business planning, mentorship, and pitching sessions—guided by experienced facilitators and mentors.
Innovative Solutions Rooted in Heritage
Each team was tasked with addressing key challenges facing ACCCA, ranging from financial systems to cultural engagement. The results were impressive:
- Team Zebra (Overall Winner): Developed a tailored financial management system to track sales and support accountability at ACCCA.
- Team Ekyanzi (1st Runners-Up): Proposed a digital marketing strategy to enhance ACCCA’s visibility and attract a wider audience.
- Team Enyangi (2nd Runners-Up): Focused on community engagement by establishing a heritage shop and showcasing cultural items.
- Team Giraffe (3rd Runners-Up): Explored storytelling as a creative method to preserve and share Ankole cultural values.
The involvement of UWA added a powerful layer to the experience, emphasizing the link between environmental conservation and cultural heritage. Through this partnership, the bootcamp offered practical insight into the role of responsible tourism and community-based preservation.
Key Reflections
Closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Twinamastiko Medard, who commended the teams for their dedication and encouraged them to continue developing their ideas beyond the bootcamp.
The vote of thanks was given by Faith Ahabwe, a software engineer from MUST, who shared her excitement about the cross-disciplinary collaboration and thanked everyone who made the experience meaningful.
Bill Gates from Bishop Stuart University expressed his appreciation for the active involvement of BSU students and the contributions of international participants. He welcomed future collaborations that support innovation, student engagement, and cultural pride.
This bootcamp not only fostered learning and creativity but also reaffirmed the importance of preserving Uganda’s cultural heritage through modern, youth-led solutions. The ideas generated have the potential to grow into impactful ventures that bridge tradition with innovation.
