Institutional repositories and Higher Education in Uganda. The role of the Consortium of Uganda University Libraries (CUUL)

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the progress so far made by Uugandan universities in establishing Institutional Repositories (IRs) Methods: A questionnaire was designed and distributed among the member institutions of the Consortium of Uganda Uuniversity Librarries (CUUL). Data received from the questionnaires was augmented by osite visits, discussions and interviews with the university libraries. Results: Despite numerous benefits associated with IRs, few institutions have established IRs in Uganda due to certain barriers. This paper argues that although these imbalances are manifested, opportunities still exists for the establishment of IRs for national development. Recommendations: The paper emphasizes the need for partnerships with the different stakeholders in the planning and developing institutional repositories. Conclusions: Insitutional repositories should be considered as principal benchmarks of digital scholarship. Originality/value – It is believed that higher institutions of learning and communities would benefit substantially from establishing IRs. However, it can only be possible with well developed infrastructure, increased funding, coordination and advocacy.