SEED Annual Symposium 2026
Makerere University (MAK), Kampala, Uganda
24 - 28 August 2025
The SEED Annual Symposium 2026 will bring the international SEED network to Kampala, Uganda, from August 24 to 28, 2026. Hosted in collaboration with Makerere University (MAK), this year’s Symposium is currently being developed around the theme “Scaling & Impact of Mini-Grid Developers: From Disciplinary Insights to Transdisciplinary Action.”
The program is expected to bring together perspectives from entrepreneurship, engineering, policy, and community practice, with sessions on mini-grid scaling, productive use of energy, research impact, and local implementation in Uganda. Planned sessions include keynotes, panel discussions, paper development workshops, research showcases, and a visit to the Kyampisi Living Lab.
Registration
Registration for the SEED Annual Symposium 2026 is not yet open.
Information on participation, registration, and practical details will be shared here as the program and logistics are finalized. Members of the SEED network will also receive updates through the usual communication channels.
Please note that event registration is separate from SEED mobility processes. Participation in the Symposium does not replace or include any required mobility forms or related procedures, which are handled separately.
Agenda Highlights
We are continuing to improve the agenda. Please check this webpage frequently for the latest version.
The opening day is planned around disciplinary exchange and the development of research ideas across SEED’s core thematic areas.
Highlights:
- Welcome remarks and official opening at Makerere University
- Opening keynote on scaling Uganda’s off-grid sector
- Panel discussion with stakeholders from government, regulation, and development cooperation
- Parallel disciplinary tracks in Entrepreneurship, Engineering, and Policy
- Paper development workshops focused on research quality and impact
The second day is expected to bring together different disciplinary perspectives around shared challenges in mini-grid development and energy access.
Highlights:
- Keynote on scaling mini-grids through academia, technology, business, and policy
- Sessions on the productive use of energy, social impact measurement, finance, policy, and partnerships
- Presentation and discussion of SEED online teaching strategy and modules
- Exchange on digitalizing SEED Living Labs
- Interactive poster session, research showcase, and Three Minute Thesis
The third day is planned as a bridge between academic work and implementation realities.
Highlights:
- Policy-practice keynote on institutional frameworks for scaling mini-grids
- Roundtables with mini-grid developers and startups
- Sessions on community engagement, inclusive productive use of energy, reliability, operations, and financing
- Community-centered exchange and local perspectives
- SEED Gala Dinner and Awards
The fourth day is currently planned as a field-based learning day.
Highlights:
- Planned visit to the Kyampisi Living Lab
- On-site exchange connected to SEED’s implementation and community engagement work
- Opportunity to connect Symposium discussions with local practice and context
The final day is expected to focus on internal exchange, project coordination, and next steps for the SEED network.
Highlights:
- SEED External Advisory Board Meeting
- SEED Executive Board and Project Coordinators Meeting
- Symposium review and discussion of next steps
- Farewell lunch and optional local activities