EQUSaT Selected to Champion FAIR Data at Global VODAN Conference

Leiden, Netherlands, August 27, 2024 — The Vice Chancellor of Equator University of Science and Technology (EQUSaT), Prof. Mouhamad Mpezamihigo, attended the Virus Outbreak Data Network (VODAN) conference in Leiden, Netherlands, where discussions centered on making data usable, accessible, and fair to both communities and researchers.

 

During the high-level engagements, Prof. Mpezamihigo successfully lobbied for EQUSaT to secure a place on the global stage. The university was officially selected to champion FAIR Data—an international standard that ensures data is Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable.

 

Following this recognition, a team from EQUSaT was appointed to represent Uganda within VODAN, positioning the university as a key player in advancing data science and responsible data management in Africa.

 

This milestone not only strengthens EQUSaT’s global partnerships but also highlights its growing influence in shaping knowledge-sharing frameworks that benefit communities and researchers alike.

 

Contribution to SDGs

The achievement supports SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through advancements in data management, SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) by promoting transparent and fair data practices, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by linking EQUSaT to a global network of institutions championing open science.