On the 5th of March 2026, the senior six science students from our school visited Makerere University to attend a science exhibition organized by the university. The visit introduced our students to advanced scientific innovations, research activities, projects, and career opportunities in the science-based field.
The students set off from school at 5:20 am on the 5th of March 2026. They were accompanied by four teachers (the career master and mistress, Mr. Yokwe Lordin, and Mr. Olatum Emmanuel), who supervised and guided them throughout the visit. We reached the university by 8:00 am, and the students had breakfast and thereafter headed to the Exhibition Centre (Makerere University College of Natural Science grounds).
Upon arrival, we were welcomed by the organizers, who gave an overview of the exhibition’s purpose and the scientific projects on display by subject.
During the exhibition, the students had the opportunity to observe various science innovations from the different departments, such as chemistry, biology, physics, agriculture, mathematics, geology, and sports science. Some of the projects included medical research displays, computer-based innovations, and renewable energy technologies. The students interacted with university students and lecturers, who explained how the projects were developed and their importance in solving real-life problems. The interaction continued until around 1:00 pm.
Overview of Activities
Upon arrival at Makerere University, students were greeted by faculty members and current university students who served as guides throughout the exhibition. The day comprised several key activities:
- Tours of the Laboratories: Students had the opportunity to explore various laboratories equipped for biological, chemical, and physical sciences. This gave them a firsthand look at the equipment used in scientific research and education.
- Guest Lectures: Several faculty members delivered lectures on different scientific fields, including Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Environmental Science. These lectures provided valuable insights into the academic requirements and career opportunities within each discipline.
- Interactive Workshops: Students participated in hands-on workshops where they engaged in practical experiments and problem-solving activities. This interactive approach helped deepen their understanding of scientific concepts.
- Career Counselling Sessions: Students had the chance to speak with academic advisors and industry professionals about the various career paths available to them after completing their studies.
- Networking Opportunities: The exhibition allowed students to interact with current university students, who shared their experiences and offered advice on navigating university life and academic expectations.
Feedback from Participants
The feedback from the students was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed that the trip broadened their understanding of various scientific fields and reinforced their ambition to pursue careers in science. Students appreciated the opportunity to ask questions and gain insights directly from professionals in their areas of interest.
Teachers accompanying the students also noted the importance of such experiences in motivating students and helping them visualise their future career paths.
The visit was highly educational and inspirational to the students. It helped them gain a better understanding of how scientific knowledge is applied in research and innovation, as well as of the different career paths available depending on the advanced-level subjects offered. Many students were motivated to pursue further studies and careers in science and technology.
The trip was successful, and the students maintained good discipline throughout the visit. We returned to school safely after the exhibition and arrived by 9:30 pm.
Recommendations
Given the success of this exhibition, let’s organize similar trips regularly to inspire students and strengthen connections between secondary and higher education. Future exhibitions could also include more hands-on activities and opportunities for students to conduct their experiments under the supervision of university staff.
Mr. Niwamanya Ezekiel
Ms. Kemigisha Angella
Career and registry office
