Humanities & Social Sciences
Crafting the Bamasaba: a Mak-NUFU film premiere
The Mak-NUFU folklore project is a collaborative effort between the Department of Literature Makerere University and The Norwegian Programme for Development Research and Education (NUFU) aimed at establishing the role of Ugandan folklore as a repository of traditional wisdom.
The Mak-NUFU folklore project is a collaborative effort between the Department of Literature Makerere University and The Norwegian Programme for Development Research and Education (NUFU) aimed at establishing the role of Ugandan folklore as a repository of traditional wisdom.
One of these methods is through the promotion of cultural film production and research.
Crafting the Bamasaba is the first full-length feature (62mins) and the third film under this project, which aims at exploring the life and aspects “Beyond the physical cut” of the actual Imbalu initiation ceremony. Other titles before this were IN THEIR OWN VOICES: THE MADI OF UGANDA (44mins) and Imbalu: The heart of Masabaland (17mins)
The premiere of this film, held at the Department of Food Science and Technology Conference hall was attended by University staff, representatives from the Uganda film industry and students. Notable among the staff were Prof David Bakibinga, former Deputy Vice Chancellor Finance and Administration, The Dean, Faculty of Arts Prof. Ssengendo, Dr. J. Kaahwa, deputy Dean Faculty of Arts and Mr. Adolu Otojoka.
Sr. Dr. Dominic Dipio, Head, Department of Literature welcomed everyone to the screening and thanked especially the students and staff for making time despite their busy exam schedules. She proceeded to give a brief background of the film, which was shot in Manafa, one of the districts comprising the land of the Bamasaba in Eastern Uganda. She then introduced the film and wished everyone a happy viewing.
The film kicks of with the unmistakable sounds of the undulating drums and flutes that accompany ceremonies of the Bamasaba, most outstandingly the processions leading up to the Imbalu initiation ceremony. It then delves into the origins of this ceremony, which as tale has it, was introduced by a girl called Nabarwa, who set a condition of circumcision in order for her to accept any romantic advances from her Mumasaba lover man. Having fulfilled her condition, the two proceeded to live happily ever after and henceforth, the Imbalu tradition was born and accepted as a core cultural ingredient and distinct identity signifying the transition from boyhood to true manhood.
It then touched on practices preceding the actual initiation ceremony, which is marked by elaborate colorful processions that often move over 20kms in a single day! These see the ‘candidate’ move from village to village announcing his candidature to his uncles and soliciting and receiving gifts. The audience’s concentration on the feature was unmistakable as the air was often punctuated with sounds of laughter, awe, gasps and winces as some images quickly flashed by. On the other hand, some of the key informants’ interviews also didn’t escape the jeers and flashes of disdain from this attentive audience as some of their contributions, though from a cultural point of view trampled on modern day gender roles and relations.
This feature ends with comments from the key informants recognizing that times have indeed changed and some of accompanying practices are overtly unsafe as the participants are often under the influence of alcohol and hence more susceptible to illicit behavior. Economic factors also come into play as hitherto elaborate celebrations, characterized by weeklong feasting are no longer affordable and tend to put a strain on the candidate’s family. The prolonged applause as the film’s end credits rolled up indeed proved the audience’s enjoyment of the premiere.
The days emcee Mr. Danson Kayana, Asst. Lecturer Department of Literature commended everyone for being such a great audience and hoped for an equally amiable reception the next time an invitation was extended. He then invited Sr. Dipio to moderate the next question and answer section.
Mr. Adolu Otojoka; popularly referred to as professor because of his great contribution to performing arts in the Department of Music, Dance and Drama thanked the Department of Literature for their wonderful work 
and shared his personal experience, which as a young man drawn by his undying love for a Mumasaba girl saw him almost brave the knife in 1954. However, this wasn’t to be as he quickly changed his mind and fled for dear life after witnessing a candidate undergo the un-anesthetized operations under the swift hands the ‘surgeon’.
Mr. Otojoka’s contribution sent the audience into uncontrollable laughter and indeed set the pace for the audience’s questions and comments, which touched on the depth of the film, the apparent degradation of women during the ritual, the act of circumcising dead bodies and matters to do with spirituality. Prof. Ssengendo, Head, Faculty of Arts and representing the Ag. Vice Chancellor Prof. Baryamureeba thanked the Department of Literature and Sr. Dipio in particular for her tireless contribution to Faculty especially in the performing arts division.
He observed that the production of such films was indeed in tandem with the university strategic plan’s component of outreach, the rest being teaching and research. Furthermore, he noted that the production of such films would not only enrich the cultural repositories of the institution but also play a key role in helping the Makerere community to learn more about other cultures and hence appreciate them better.
Sr. Dipio then took this opportunity to recognize some of the key informants present during the launch; Ms. Florence Mutonyi Dujanga, Lecturer Physics Department, Mr. Francis Wambete, Lecturer Institute of Languages and Mr. Dominic Makwa, Masters Student. She also recognized Mr. Kifu Taddese, a representative from Africa Cinema and Culture Company, who helped with the post production, representatives from AMAKULA Uganda Mr. Ken Barongo and Ms Sarah Sigayi.
After a few more contributions from the audience, Sr. Dipio invited some of the key informants present to react to the issues raised. Mr. Makwa, who had his fair share of presence in the film, led the reactions and left the audience stunned when he reaffirmed what had aired during the film that, possession by spirits was culturally permissible for the circumcisers as without spiritual influence, they’d lack the “blessing” to perform the revered tradition.
Quick to follow was Ms. Mutonyi, who sought to clarify on the role played by women in this male dominated ritual. Reacting to one of the contributors who was appalled at the Bamasambas’ apparent sexual exploitation of women during the processions, she stressed that the original taboos associated with pre-marital sex weren’t meant to condone exploitation of women but rather to deter would-be victims by labeling/ostracizing the offenders.
Mr. Wambete then closed the question and answer session by commenting on questions about the physical abuse meted out by the elder men on the initiates. He explained that this was only meant to toughen up the candidates and test their determination to see the ritual through while all the time watching for any signs of hesitation or cowardice so as not to shame the family during the more severe Imbalu. Regarding the practice of circumcising the dead, he clarified that it was cultural taboo, which was believed to bring a curse upon the entire clan, to burry an uncircumcised male adult however bizarre and appalling this circumcision routine seemed to be.
Prof. Bakibinga in his remarks thanked Sr. Dipio once again for her tireless efforts in keeping the Department of Literature’s light burning by regularly inviting people to witness their works. He also commended Sr. Dipio on her novelty, which has seen the introduction of a Film Production course, housed under the Department and hoped that this would help hone the skills of future world-class film producers and directors. He noted that this would not only enable the students to become entrepreneurs but also cement the outreach component of the University’s strategic plan, as the communities would be able to witness the good works of Makerere.
In conclusion, Sr. Dipio thanked AMAKULA Kampala and Africa Cinema and Culture Company for their contributions and support, the key informants for their willing participation, The Head and staff of the Faculty of Arts for their encouragement and belief in their work and Jeffrey Balemezi, The film’s editor for a job well done. She further stressed that the film only featured certain cultural view points and as such did not represent the Bamasaba culture entirety. However, she hoped that this would be a stepping stone for future productions to explore specific components moderately touched on by this film.
Copies of the film can be obtained at the Department of Literature, Faculty of Arts Makerere University at UShs 10,000/= per copy.
Humanities & Social Sciences
Dr. Pamela Khanakwa Honored for Steering Record 18 PhD Candidates for the Mak 2026 Graduation
Six personally supervised, three completed in record time, as School of Liberal and Performing Arts sets a historic milestone. Dr. Pamela Khanakwa got the Award as Best PhD Supervisor and Dean
A Historic Academic Milestone for SLPA
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) recognised the Dean of the School of Liberal and Performing Arts (SLPA), Dr. Pamela Khanakwa, for outstanding academic leadership that has seen the School field 18 PhD candidates for the next 2026 Makerere University Graduation Ceremony scheduled for 24th-27th February. Remarkably, six of these doctoral graduates were directly supervised by Dr. Khanakwa, with three completing within the official three-year timeframe, an exceptional achievement in graduate training. The recognition was announced during the CHUSS End-of-Year Get-Together, where staff applauded Dr. Khanakwa’s dedication, humility, and relentless commitment to postgraduate supervision and timely completion.
Message to Academic Staff
Q: What message do you have for your staff following this achievement?
Dr. Khanakwa:
First, I celebrate my staff and thank them for their dedication to supervision and student support. Academic work is demanding, and material rewards are often limited, but the true satisfaction comes from seeing students succeed.
I encourage my colleagues to remain committed. Yes, the workload is heavy, but many things are possible with dedication and teamwork. Let us continue working for the good of our students, our School, and Makerere University.
Leadership Rooted in Humility
Q: Many colleagues describe you as humble, down to earth, and hardworking. What shapes this character?
Dr. Khanakwa:
I think it is largely my upbringing. My mother was a primary school teacher from the 1950s until the mid-1980s. She worked extremely hard to raise us, combining teaching with farming to ensure we had school fees and basic needs. From her, I learned humility, discipline, and the value of hard work.
I also learned that leadership positions are temporary. You occupy them today, and tomorrow you move on. So humility is essential.
My graduate training also shaped me significantly. My PhD supervisor emphasized that graduate study is a full-time job and that results matter more than noise. Let people see your work through outcomes, not announcements.
Supervision as a Two-Way Commitment
Q: How would you describe your supervision style?
Dr. Khanakwa:
I read my students’ work thoroughly, word by word. Sometimes my comments are tough, but they are honest. Supervision is a two-way commitment. I give feedback, but students must also respond and remain engaged. When that relationship works, progress happens.
Balancing Leadership, Scholarship, and Family
Q: How do you balance being a Dean, scholar, wife, mother, and daughter?
Dr. Khanakwa:
Honestly, I am not sure I balance perfectly. My mother lives far away in Bukwo, so visiting requires careful planning. My children grew up understanding the demands of academic life. I pursued my PhD in the United States and spent long periods away, but we adapted as a family.
Work has become part of my lifestyle. I use weekends to read dissertations, review manuscripts, and write. Sometimes my children ask if I ever sit without working, but this is the commitment I made. As we often say jokingly, “We humbly applied for the job, so let us do the job.”
Scholarship Beyond Supervision
Dr. Khanakwa is also an active scholar and editor. In the past year alone, she has:
- Edited scholarly volumes on archives, memory, method, and pedagogy
- Published a book with Routledge Companion
- Co-authored journal articles and book chapters with graduating students, including Priscah Asiimwe and Anatoli Lwasa Mpijja
“I feel an obligation to write with students,” she notes. “It takes time, energy, and commitment, but it is part of academic mentorship.”
Who Is Dr. Pamela Khanakwa?
Dr. Pamela Khanakwa is the Dean, School of Liberal and Performing Arts, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Makerere University. She is a seasoned scholar, supervisor, administrator, and mentor whose leadership continues to redefine graduate training excellence. Details about Dr. Pamela Khanakwa can be accessed at: https://chuss.mak.ac.ug/en/personnel/pamela-khanakwa/
More details are available in her attached curriculum vitae.
The CHUSS End- Of-Year-Get-Together
On 12th December, 2025 the college leadership organised a get-together end of year gathering to take stock of the achievements, challenges and brainstorm together on how to move forward. The event was marked by entertainment, team building games, appreciation speeches, sharing a meal and a Christmas package for every staff
Retirees and staff recognised
Five retired staff Dr. Micheal Wangotta Masakala, Dr. Anatole Kirigwajjo and Dr. Jackson Kizza Mukas (all from the School of Languages, Literature and Communication), Assoc. Prof. Florence Nansubuga (School of Psychology), Dr. Tusabe Gervase (School of Liberal and Perforing Arts) and Ms. Scovia Nganda Sekweyama (secretary from the School of Social Sciences) were recognised for their dedicated services to the university.
In addition to Dr. Pamela Khanakwa’s Award as Best PhD Supervisor and Dean, Ms. Birabwa Florence scooped the award of Best Registrar of the year. Birabwa is the registrar for the School of Liberal and Performing Arts.
Administrative and support staff including Ms. Mary Gyezaho and Annet Kashumbusha(both administrative secretaries in the Principals office), Farouq Lule (IT Officer), Godfrey Kakooza (cleaner), Charles Sebuguzi (driver) and Jane Anyango (Communications officer) were recognise with awards for outstanding service. Dr. Mohamed Mayanja Kajumba was from the School of Pyschology was recognised as the person with an outstanding talent in Handwriting.
The celebrations held in the Arts quadrangle were graced by the Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs Prof. Sarah Ssali and the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Adminstration Prof. Ireeta Tumps.
Humanities & Social Sciences
Ugandan Journalists Trained on Peace and Gender-Sensitive Reporting Ahead of 2026 Elections
Kampala, Uganda – January 9, 2026
Ahead of the January 15 general elections, Ugandan journalists have undergone specialized training on peace and gender-sensitive reporting to ensure responsible media coverage during the election period. The two-day training, held from 8th to 9th January 2026 at Makerere University’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences Smart Room, was organized by the Women’s Situation Room (WSR) in partnership with various stakeholders and brought together journalists from across print, broadcast, and online platforms.
The main objective of the training was to strengthen the capacities of media in reporting and documenting electoral processes in a responsible and gender-sensitive manner. The specific objectives included: strengthening journalists’ skills to cover the 2026 elections in a fair, balanced, gender-sensitive, and non-violent partisan way; enhancing the role of media to enable citizens to be well-informed and actively participate in the election process; ensuring focused and balanced reporting on peace during and after elections; and strengthening partnerships between the WSR and media houses during the election period.
The training covered multiple critical modules. Day one focused on responsible conflict-sensitive reporting, emphasizing principles such as balance, impartiality, and accuracy. Participants explored the role of media as a relayer of the population’s voice, election monitor, catalyst for social cohesion and reconciliation, contributor to the accountability of political actors, and a platform for detecting and debunking digital media misinformation and hate speech.
Day two addressed responsible and gender-sensitive reporting. Key aspects included the definition of gender-sensitive reporting, how to become a gender-sensitive reporter, critical elements in reporting with gender awareness, packaging gender-sensitive stories, and a checklist for detecting and avoiding gender-insensitive reporting.
Her Lordship, retired Judge Justice Mary Mayitum, emphasized the importance of peace as the foundation of development and democratic engagement. “Because we value peace more than anything. Without peace, really, you can do nothing. But where there is peace, you can have time to reflect, discuss with others, and join in meaningful dialogue,” she said. She warned that the country’s past conflicts, such as those in Gulu, underscored the necessity of maintaining national harmony.
Justice Mayitum also urged other key election stakeholders to uphold peaceful conduct. “Being peaceful is the very heart of life. We have spoken to police, security personnel, political parties, and the Electoral Commission. We want politicians to have a code of conduct and to understand that it’s okay to think differently without fighting or hating one another,” she added.
Dr. William Tayebwa, lead facilitator and senior lecturer in the Department of Journalism and Communication at Makerere University, said, “This training is about conflict-sensitive reporting, peace journalism, and gender-sensitive reporting in the context of the elections. The emphasis was on giving female political candidates a voice while ensuring journalists report responsibly on election-related matters.”
Participants described the training as timely and impactful. Tony Banizengabo of CBS Wakiso District said, “We’ve benefited a lot. We’ve been trained to write stories which bring peace, not conflict. Ahead of the elections, we are very ready to be part of peacemakers.”
Dorcas Kimono of UBC TV Kampala added, “It was so timely and rich. We learned how to report without promoting or fueling violence, giving voice to victims without angering them or encouraging violators. This is very vital, especially as we approach the 2026 elections.”
The training aims to equip media personnel with the knowledge and skills to uphold professional ethics while contributing to a peaceful, inclusive, and gender-sensitive electoral process.
Humanities & Social Sciences
CHUSS Invests Over UGX 100 Million in Interactive Smart Screens, Upgrades Teaching Infrastructure
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) has invested over UGX 100 million in the acquisition and installation of state-of-the-art interactive smart screens, marking a major step in strengthening digital teaching and learning at Makerere University.
Under the investment, 86-inch interactive 4K smart screens have been installed in major lecture rooms across the college’s schools, replacing traditional projectors and whiteboards. The upgrade is intended to modernise instructional delivery, enhance student engagement, and support blended and hybrid learning models.
The touch-sensitive smart screens enable lecturers to write, draw, and annotate content directly on the display, while simultaneously integrating multimedia resources such as videos, presentations, and online materials. The screens support wireless screen casting from laptops, tablets, and smartphones, allowing for smooth, cable-free presentations and real-time sharing of students’ work during lectures and group discussions.
Designed to promote interactive and learner-centred pedagogy, the smart screens feature multi-touch capability that allows several users to interact with the board at the same time. This functionality supports collaborative learning, problem-solving exercises, and group presentations, making lessons more engaging and inclusive for students with diverse learning styles.
The boards are equipped with built-in cameras, microphones, and speakers, enabling seamless hybrid teaching through platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet. This allows lecturers to conduct virtual and physical classes simultaneously, record full lectures, and share them with students for later review, revision, or catch-up purposes.
Running on dual Android and Windows operating systems with full internet connectivity, the smart screens provide direct access to online academic resources, digital libraries, and learning management systems. Their AI-powered features further enhance lesson organisation, content clarity, and efficient, paper-free instruction, contributing to a more sustainable learning environment.
To ensure safety and prevent misuse, the smart screens are secured in fabricated metallic safety boxes installed in the lecture rooms.
Beyond digital infrastructure, CHUSS has also undertaken additional physical improvements. The Russian Lecture Room in the School of Languages, Literature and Communication has been furnished with new chairs, tables, and a projector screen, significantly enhancing its teaching environment.
The college has further improved staff working spaces, with the School of Psychology renovating office space and classrooms in Block A, while similar renovations have been carried out in the School of Social Sciences.
The infrastructural upgrades underscore CHUSS’ commitment to improving the quality of teaching, learning, and staff working conditions in line with Makerere University’s digital transformation agenda.
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