Eng. Dr. Dorothy Okello is Dean, School of Engineering at Makerere University, and a researcher with netLabs!UG, a research centre within the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering whose model is to strive for a balanced critical mass of research, innovation and commercialisation in communications and networking. She is also Director of Innovation at ResilientAfrica Network (RAN), Makerere University School of Public Health. Supported by USAID, RAN seeks to identify, develop and scale innovative solutions that will strengthen the resilience of African communities afflicted by natural as well as man-made shocks and stresses. This it does by applying science, technology, innovation and partnerships, and by using evidence-based approaches.
Dr. Okello holds a Bachelor of Science Engineering (Electrical – First Class Hons.), Makerere University, a Master of Science Electrical Engineering, University of Kansas, United States (Fulbright Scholar), and a Ph.D. Electrical Engineering, McGill University, Canada (Canadian Commonwealth Scholar). She is a member of the Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers (UIPE) where she is Past President (2016-2018), and a duly registered engineer with the Engineers Registration Board (ERB).
Dr. Okello is a leader with over 20 years of diverse experience in teaching, researching, as well as conducting projects and contributing to policies, including serving on various boards in education, telecommunications/ICT, banking and innovation. She is an activist in the area of getting more women, small-scale enterprises and rural communities engaged in innovation for development – with an ability to understand and balance both community and technology objectives.
Danny Gardner, a seasoned leader in the technology industry, is the driving force behind Mesh++, where he serves as the Chief Executive Officer. With an impressive background and a history of successful ventures, Danny has consistently demonstrated a keen understanding of cutting-edge technologies and their applications.
Before taking the helm at Mesh++, Danny held pivotal roles in various technology firms, where he played a key role in the development and deployment of innovative solutions. His strategic acumen and hands-on experience have been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of the companies he has been associated with.
Danny's commitment to pushing technological boundaries is evident in his impressive track record. His leadership has led to the creation and implementation of pioneering solutions that have not only met but exceeded industry standards. Under his guidance, Mesh++ has rapidly emerged as a trailblazer in the field of wireless communication, providing scalable and resilient networks for a connected world.
With a passion for innovation and a dedication to excellence, Danny Gardner continues to steer Mesh++ towards new horizons, solidifying the company's reputation as a leader in cutting-edge connectivity solutions.
Mr Andrew Otim, is the Head of Strategy and Business Planning at the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC).
Mr. Otim has a wealth of experience in strategy development and management, research, policy development and analysis, business process improvement and Monitoring and Evaluation. Mr. Otim has been instrumental in providing technical expertise in the development and implementation of various transformational strategies and policies for the communications sector in Uganda, including the ICT sector Strategy and Investment Plan, National ICT Innovation Support Program, UCC’s Corporate Strategy, National Development Plan (NDP III)-Digital Transformation Program among others. He has also represented Uganda in the development of various ICT development strategies at the Universal Postal Union (UPU), African Telecommunications Union (ATU) and International Telecommunications Union (ITU). Mr Otim, holds a Msc. Development Economics (Nkozi), Bsc. Statistics and Economics (Makerere University) as well as various professional certifications in Strategy Development and Monitoring and Evaluation.
He is the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Finance and Administration at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST). He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce from Makerere University, a Master of Business Administration, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration from the University of Birmingham, UK, and, a PhD in Sustainability Accountability and Reporting from Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST).
He has been in university administration since 1994 starting with Makerere University. Dr. Tushabomwe is a known researcher both locally and internationally who specializes in sustainability accounting. He is a professional accountant and holds ACCA, CPA (U) and ACIS certifications. He is also the public universities’ representative on the council of Bishop Stuart University (BSU).
