A growing number of student science projects in Uganda are demonstrating potential for commercial application and societal impact, raising complex questions about intellectual property rights. Traditionally, attention at school exhibitions focuses on creativity and academic merit, but increasingly, projects showcase innovations with significant value. These innovations could evolve into marketable products, offer solutions to local problems, or attract investors. However, it remains unclear who owns the rights to these inventions – the students, the schools, or potentially others involved. This uncertainty poses challenges as the value of student-led innovations continues to rise, necessitating a discussion on legal frameworks and ethical considerations surrounding ownership. The debate centers on protecting student inventors and encouraging further innovation within the education system. Further reporting will explore these evolving issues.