On 9th February 2011, the College of Computing and Information Sciences started a 3months Java Programming for Mobile Applications Development after being contracted by Nokia East and Southern Africa. This initiative will make it possible for the general public to use Ugandan mobile products world over, improving the visibility of the local software developers in this country.
The School of Computing and Informatics Technology started this initiative with training 100 applicants who had been recommended by NOKIA East and Southern Africa. “Applications for this training were open to the entire country for students with skills and a passion for Software development specifically Mobile Applications.
The key output of this training will be a number of applications that will be published on the Nokia Ovi Store, the Nokia Applications Store. Over 30 mobile applications have been approved for further development under this arrangement. These include; “Mobile Doctor”, “News Aggregator”, “Call me later”, “Kwepena” and “M Reporter” to mention but a few.
So far, only one Ugandan developer has successfully had his application approved. When your application is vetted and approved, Nokia does not only house it on the Nokia Ovi Store, the developer remains with the copyright and Nokia launches and markets it for him/ her.
The initiative serves to strengthen the existing relationship between the College and Nokia, which was instrumental in the establishment of the mobile computing lab.
We are in advanced stages of establishing regular training schedules for this program in partnership with Nokia.
Compiled by Rita Namisango, Makerere University PRO