Uganda is trying to boost the number of professionals in science and technology. It is using a $103 million loan from the African Development Bank to enable six targeted Institutions of higher learning to enroll additional 35,000 students in science and technology programs at university and more than 12,000 through virtual learning, reports Saturday Monitor.

According to ADB regional director of East Africa Resource Centre Gabriel Negatu,  the project will lead to job creation and self-employment in Uganda.

The initiative will target six universities: Markerere University, Kyambogo, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Gulu University, Bustima University Muni University plus two degree awarding institutions .

“Targeted institutions provide training for more than 60 per cent of the country’s university level enrollment, and 95 per cent of those training in sciences and technology,” Neguta told Saturday Monitor.

Added Finance, Minister Maria Kiwanuka, “This will ensure that graduates can compete within the region and beyond.”