Northern Uganda schools gear up for UPSTU science competition

As Uganda prepares to host the inaugural UPSTU Science Innovation Projects Competition 2025, excitement is building in northern Uganda, where a selection of secondary schools have secured their place at the upcoming regional exhibition scheduled for June 28 at Lango College in Lira City.

Following a rigorous expert vetting and shortlisting process held in mid-May at the UPSTU Secretariat, 12 schools from northern Uganda (Lango, Acholi, West Nile and Karamoja) emerged among the 80 nationally shortlisted entries.

These schools will now showcase their science and innovation projects developed by their students, competing for a coveted spot at the national finals in July.

The shortlisted schools from northern Uganda include:

•Arua Public Secondary School (4 projects)

•Loro Secondary School, Oyam (2 projects)

•Bishop Tarantino College, Lira (2 projects)

•Comboni College, Lira (2 projects)

•Lira Town College, Lira (2 projects)

•Acaba Secondary School, Oyam (1 project)

•Erussi SS, Nebbi (1 project)

•Zeu Secondary School, Zombo (1 project)

•Abim Secondary School, Abim (1 project)

•Morulem Girls’ Secondary School, Abim (1 project)

•Jubilee 2000 SS, Karenga (1 project)

•Wisdom High School Akalo, Kole (1 project)

These schools represent a rich diversity across the sub-regions of Lango, Acholi, West Nile, and Karamoja—highlighting the increasing footprint of science and technology in even the most remote areas of Uganda.

Organized by Uganda Professional Science Teachers Union (UPSTU), this competition is a flagship initiative promoting STEM education, creativity, and real-world problem-solving among secondary school students.

Spotlight on Lira as regional hub

Lango College, the host of the northern regional exhibition, is expected to welcome hundreds of students, teachers, and community members. Exhibitors will each receive a stall to display their innovations, while pitch presentations will take place in the main hall before a panel of adjudicators and guests.

Only six projects from the northern region will be selected to advance to the national finals set to take place on July 25–26 at Kololo SS in Kampala.

This year’s competition carries the theme: “Science for National Development and Transformation,” a timely call for youth to turn knowledge into tangible impact.

The UPSTU Science Innovation Projects Competition continues to be a powerful platform nurturing Uganda’s next generation of scientists, technologists, and change-makers.

For the northern Region, the June 28 exhibition promises not just prizes—but inspiration, learning, and the celebration of young brilliance.