Soroti University has secured land in Katakwi District to advance research, training and innovation in tropical agriculture, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s growth and community engagement efforts.
Staff of Katakwi district local government and Soroti University after the inspection of the land in Aterai village, Aterai Parish in Palam sub county, Katakwi district overlooking Iriiri in Napak district.
The land measuring about 1.200 acres in Aterai village, Aterai Parish in Palam sub county in Katakwi district overlooking Iriiri in Napak district will host the Soroti University livestock and research centre. Soroti university under the department of Research and Innovation is in advanced stages to establish a dry land farming and tropical agriculture research and other facilities.
The DVC Soroti university and the physical planner Katakwi district sharing a light moment
The land, leased to the university by the Katakwi district local government and boundaries open has already been demarcated, boundaries opened and titling ongoing free from encumbrances.
The acquisition of the land is aimed at establishing a dedicated agricultural research and demonstration farm that will support practical teaching and learning for students, particularly in climate-smart agriculture, sustainable dry land farming crop production and suited to the Teso sub-region.
The initiative to acquire this land aligns with Soroti University’s strategic goal of promoting Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) to address local and national development challenges. The facility is expected to serve as a centre for agricultural experimentation, knowledge transfer, and community outreach, benefiting both students and local farmers.
“This development is a major step towards strengthening our capacity in agricultural research and practical learning.” The VC Prof. Ikoja said. It will enable us to train students with hands-on skills while also supporting farmers in adopting modern and resilient farming techniques.” added
The project is also expected to foster partnerships with government agencies, development partners, and the private sector to enhance agricultural productivity and food security in the region. Plans are underway to introduce demonstration plots, irrigation systems, and farmer training programs on the land.
Local leaders in Katakwi district welcomed the development, describing it as a timely intervention that will boost agricultural knowledge, create opportunities for collaboration and contribute to improved livelihoods within the community.
The establishment reinforces Soroti University’s commitment to community service, research excellence, and innovation, positioning the institution as a key driver of sustainable development in Uganda.