From Uganda to the UP: Innovative Research on Jackfruit Cultivation

Join us on Thursday, January 9th at 7:00pm at the Women’s Federated Clubhouse in Marquette for an enlightening program by Dr. Justine Nakintu, a distinguished researcher from Uganda’s Mbarara University of Science and Technology and current AAUW International Fellow. Dr. Nakintu’s groundbreaking research focuses on transforming jackfruit cultivation in Uganda from trial-and-error farming to science-based agriculture. Through innovative GIS analysis and laboratory studies at Northern Michigan University, she’s mapping optimal growing conditions to help Ugandan farmers maximize their yields of this nutrient-rich crop.

But Dr. Nakintu’s work goes beyond farming—she’s tackling one of jackfruit’s biggest challenges: its short shelf life. With the fruit spoiling within just five days of ripening, she’s developing value-added products to extend its usability, potentially creating new economic opportunities for Ugandan farmers.

Dr. Nakintu brings extensive expertise in ethnobotany, plant genetics, and agrobiodiversity conservation. Her research has been published in prestigious journals and supported by international organizations, making her presentation a unique opportunity to learn about sustainable agriculture in East Africa. Find more about Dr. Nakintu’s research at https://nmu.edu/eegs/justine-nakintu.

Don’t miss this chance to hear Dr. Nakintu share her fascinating research and experiences from Uganda to the Upper Peninsula. Her work exemplifies AAUW’s mission of advancing equity through education and research.