Ms. Mbabazi Elizabeth Shirley
Lecturer | Head of Department, Technical Vocational Education and Training | Researcher | AI & Technology Professional
Mbabazi Elizabeth Shirley is a Lecturer in the School of Technology, Computing & Engineering at Universal Technology and Management University, working at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Software Engineering, Data Analytics, Digital Transformation, and Technology for Health and Development. In September 2026, she took on the role of Head of the Department of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET), which she balances alongside her teaching and research work.
She holds a Master's in Computer Science, specializing in Artificial Intelligence, and a Bachelor's in Software Engineering a foundation that grounds her academic career in both computing theory and applied problem-solving.
Her research centers on responsible and explainable AI, healthcare technology, data science, and predictive modelling. Her work on machine learning approaches for cardiovascular disease risk prediction reflects a broader commitment to building AI systems that are transparent, interpretable, and genuinely useful in clinical decision-making work that has contributed to published research in the field.
Shirley has worked in technical support and technology operations within the IoT sector, troubleshooting connected devices, resolving connectivity issues, and supporting clients through data-driven solutions. That hands-on experience continues to shape how she teaches and researches with an emphasis on what actually works beyond the classroom.
She is especially engaged with digitalization, data governance, interoperability, and health information systems, and is drawn to multidisciplinary work that brings computing, engineering, and healthcare together to solve problems in developing-country contexts always with an eye toward solutions that are practical, ethical, and sustainable.
As an educator, Shirley champions student-centered learning and works to equip students with the digital and analytical skills the modern workforce demands, particularly around AI's growing role in education and healthcare. Through her teaching, research, and departmental leadership, she's focused on developing the next generation of skilled, responsible technology professionals.
Core interests: Artificial Intelligence · Machine Learning · Data Science · Software Engineering Digital Health · Responsible AI · Technology Innovation · Higher Education · Capacity Building.
Email: embabazi@utamu.ac.ug