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2009 Events and before

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2009

December 2009

21st – 24th December 2009: NON-RESIDENTIAL WORKSHOP FOR MENTEES & RESIDENTIAL WORKSHOP ON CAPACITY BUILDING.

This workshop held at Imperial Royale Hotel enabled participants benefit from the Mentoring Strategy Spearheaded by Prof. Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza. The key topics of the four day workshops were: Concretisation of Personal Mission Statements and Development of Strategies for personal growth (1,3 and 5 personal year plans), Exploration of resource opportunities to realize the objectives of your personal mission statement, Sharing of the GMD mentoring strategy for the next four years (2010-2013), Sharing of personal experiences from female professors in Makerere University, Understanding issues and principle of Gender, Women and Leadership in Makerere University, Tips on how the “Act like a LADY and think like a MAN”, Personal branding and Repositioning for leadership in Makerere University and Strategies for Women to support fellow Women.

13th – 15th December 2009: First APEDIA Conference

Makerere University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine hosted the First International Academic Partnership for Environment and Development Innovations in Africa (APEDIA) Conference on Sustainable Land Use in Africa. The conference aimed at examining the issue of land use and conflicts, with a focus on Sources and Solutions

11th December 2009: Nora's Sisters; Gender Mainstreaming Division & Norwegian Embassy.

These organized an event held in the Main hall with the highlight being a play titled Nora's Sisters " The rights and roles of women in society" .

11th December 2009: i@MAK Official Launch of 19 New Publications.

The Publications Board was established as a Sub Committee of I@Mak.com, to promote scholarly writing and publishing initially among the staff and students of partnering institutions. The Board had since its formation published over 40 books through a public private partnership with M/s Fountain Publishers Limited, a leading local publishing firm. A peer reviewed Journal titled Makerere University Research Journal (MURJ) was also introduced and five issues published thus far. The Committee launched 19 peer reviewed books.

10th December 2009: Makerere-NUFU Crafting the Bamasaba.

The Mak-NUFU Folklore Project Coordinator, invited the public to the screening of a documentary film titled, Crafting the Bamasaba that focused on the ritual of Imbalu among the Bagisu. This 62 minute film was research documentation under the MAK-NUFU Linkage Folklore Project that is housed in the Department of Literature. The event was held at the Department of Food Science & Technology Conference Hall
9th December 2009: H.E. President Yoweri Museveni visit to Faculty of Technology. President Museveni visited the Faculty of Technology where he toured and inspected some of their innovations. They included sanitary pads made from papyrus and a mini- hydro-power station that could produce about 10 megawatts of electricity ideal for institutions situated near water sources. The President also said the Government will start funding science students' placement in industries.

November 2009

27th November 2009: Consultation Meeting on the formation of a National Remote Engineering Consortium

The Faculty of Technology organized the first Consultation Meeting on the formation of, “The National Remote Engineering Consortium”. The Seminar under the theme: “Enriching Science Education through Remote Engineering” was held at Imperial Royale Hotel, Kampala, on November 2009 27, 2009 from 8:30 am to 4:30pm. The formation of a National Remote Engineering Consortium, premised on a Knowledge Transfer Partnership, constituted by the Academia, Industry and the Public/Private Sector, was aimed at enriching science education. It was presided over by the Minister of State for Higher Education, The Permanent Secretary Ministry of ICT, The Deputy Director NCHE, The Ag. VC Makerere University, DVC F&A, Dean and Staff Faculty of Technology and members from the private and public sectors.

27th – 28th November 2009: Inaugural Makerere University Grand Alumni Re-union

Makerere University Convocation held the inaugural Makerere University Alumni Re-union on November 2009 28, 2009 at Makerere University Freedom Square. The event was presided over by H. E Benjamin Mkapa as Chief Guest, and as part of the Pre re-union activities, a public lecture on the role of the academia in governance and National developmentwas held on November 2009 27, 2009 in the University Main Hall. Makerere University Convocation, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung and Advocates Coalition for Development and Environment jointly organized the lecture. The Grand Alumni re-union was marked by other activities like a 2-day exhibition at the Freedom square, A cocktail hosted by the Chief guest at Kampala Serena Hotel on 27th November 2009 and on the 28th, Laying of a foundation stone for the Alumni House in Katanga and crowned by an Alumni Dinner at the Freedom Square.

24th November 2009: Sir Tim Berners-Lee visits Makerere

Makerere University hosted the Inventor of the World Wide Web, Sir Tim Berners-Lee. At the Faculty of Computing and IT Block B Lab 2, where he delivered an address about the origin of the World Wide Web and answered burning questions from Students and Staff. He later on met with the Ag. Vice Chancellor, Professor Venansius Baryamureeba

23rd – 25th November 2009: International Workshop on Research in Adult Education

Makerere University Institute of Adult and Continuing Education in partnership with Deutschen Volkshochschul-Verbandes (DVV) organized the International workshop on Research in Adult Education.

23rd – 26th November 2009: COVIDSET 2009 Conference

From 23rd to 26th November 2009, Makerere University hosted the COVIDSET 2009 Conference for Vice Chancellors and Deans of Science, Engineering and Technology. The conference was held under the theme Revitalising Science, Engineering and Technology Research and development for Sustainable development in Africa. The Conference attracted participants from twelve African countries as well as the donor community and other agencies involved in higher education.

23rd November 2009: International Workshop on Research in Adult Education.

Makerere University Institute of Adult and Continuing Education in partnership with Deutschen Volkshochschul-Verbandes (DVV) organized the International workshop on Research in Adult Education.

23rd – 25th November 2009: First International Ethnomusicology Symposium

The Department of Music, Dance and Drama, supported by Norwegian Government and NUFU organized the First International Ethnomusicology Symposium at Makerere University. The symposium aimed at discussing issues around ethnic music and the preservation of that important aspect of our culture. The symposium concluded on the 25th November 2009 with the handover of ethnic music from Uganda collected in the 1940s and 50s collected by Professor Waschmann and which had since then been kept in Britain.

15th – 18th November 2009: International Conference on Family Planning Research and Best Practices

The School of Public Health in collaboration with the Bill and Melinda Gates and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health organized and hosted the International Conference on Family Planning Research and Best Practices from the 15th to 18th November 2009. The objective of the conference was to enable scientific and programmatic exchange and sharing of available findings and identification of knowledge gaps regarding family planning. Over 800 international, regional and local participants attended the workshop at the Speke Resort Munyonyo.

13th November 2009: International Students' Cultural Day.

The University Management together with the international students studying at Makerere University organised the first ever international students’ cultural day to showcase their culture, identity and countries. The event was held under the theme “Appreciating our culture in harmony.” The international students presented cultural exhibits; folk songs; tongue twisters; cultural dances; drama and plays; fashion shows and cultural dishes/delicacies.

13th – 18th November 2009: Statistics week and Africa Statistics Day Celebrations

The Institute of Statistics and Applied Economics together with the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) celebrated the statistics week. This week was marked by painting of the Makerere Police Post on Friday 13th Nov; A Student-organized statistics symposium, which started with a March 2010 around the University on 16th Nov and a public lecture that was delivered by Prof. J.P.M. Ntozi on the 18th of Nov at the St. Francis Conference Hall.

9th – 13th November 2009: Makerere-Sida Bilateral Research Program Annual Review meeting

Makerere-Sida Bilateral Research Program Annual Review Meeting was held at Makerere University. All Program and Sub-program Coordinators, researchers, past and current students supported under this program were scheduled to attend the plenary meeting.

8th – 13th November 2009: The 13th East, Central and Southern African Regional Meeting and International Scientific Conference

The 13th East, Central and Southern African Regional Meeting and International Scientific Conference organised by the Uganda Veterinary Association, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Makerere University and the Commonwealth Veterinary Association was held from 8th to 13th November 2009 2009 under the theme “Convergence Of Veterinary Science, Public Health And Trade For Sustainable Livelihoods In Sub-Saharan Africa”.

5th – 6th November 2009: School of Graduate Studies Annual Research and Innovations Dissemination Conference

The School of Graduate Studies (SGS) also organized and hosted the Annual Research and Innovations Dissemination Conference from the 5th to 6th November 2009 at Hotel Africana. The purpose of the Conference was to open an opportunity for individual researchers, units and research projects at the University to disseminate their research findings and share knowledge and experiences in research.
It was also an opportunity for our researchers and academics to interface with members of the public and private sector who could have an interest in our research projects for possible business solutions or investment opportunities.

 

2009

December 2009

21st – 24th December 2009: NON-RESIDENTIAL WORKSHOP FOR MENTEES & RESIDENTIAL WORKSHOP ON CAPACITY BUILDING.

This workshop held at Imperial Royale Hotel enabled participants benefit from the Mentoring Strategy Spearheaded by Prof. Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza. The key topics of the four day workshops were: Concretisation of Personal Mission Statements and Development of Strategies for personal growth (1,3 and 5 personal year plans), Exploration of resource opportunities to realize the objectives of your personal mission statement, Sharing of the GMD mentoring strategy for the next four years (2010-2013), Sharing of personal experiences from female professors in Makerere University, Understanding issues and principle of Gender, Women and Leadership in Makerere University, Tips on how the “Act like a LADY and think like a MAN”, Personal branding and Repositioning for leadership in Makerere University and Strategies for Women to support fellow Women.

13th – 15th December 2009: First APEDIA Conference

Makerere University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine hosted the First International Academic Partnership for Environment and Development Innovations in Africa (APEDIA) Conference on Sustainable Land Use in Africa. The conference aimed at examining the issue of land use and conflicts, with a focus on Sources and Solutions

11th December 2009: Nora's Sisters; Gender Mainstreaming Division & Norwegian Embassy.

These organized an event held in the Main hall with the highlight being a play titled Nora's Sisters " The rights and roles of women in society" .

11th December 2009: i@MAK Official Launch of 19 New Publications.

The Publications Board was established as a Sub Committee of I@Mak.com, to promote scholarly writing and publishing initially among the staff and students of partnering institutions. The Board had since its formation published over 40 books through a public private partnership with M/s Fountain Publishers Limited, a leading local publishing firm. A peer reviewed Journal titled Makerere University Research Journal (MURJ) was also introduced and five issues published thus far. The Committee launched 19 peer reviewed books.

10th December 2009: Makerere-NUFU Crafting the Bamasaba.

The Mak-NUFU Folklore Project Coordinator, invited the public to the screening of a documentary film titled, Crafting the Bamasaba that focused on the ritual of Imbalu among the Bagisu. This 62 minute film was research documentation under the MAK-NUFU Linkage Folklore Project that is housed in the Department of Literature. The event was held at the Department of Food Science & Technology Conference Hall
9th December 2009: H.E. President Yoweri Museveni visit to Faculty of Technology. President Museveni visited the Faculty of Technology where he toured and inspected some of their innovations. They included sanitary pads made from papyrus and a mini- hydro-power station that could produce about 10 megawatts of electricity ideal for institutions situated near water sources. The President also said the Government will start funding science students' placement in industries.

November 2009

27th November 2009: Consultation Meeting on the formation of a National Remote Engineering Consortium

The Faculty of Technology organized the first Consultation Meeting on the formation of, “The National Remote Engineering Consortium”. The Seminar under the theme: “Enriching Science Education through Remote Engineering” was held at Imperial Royale Hotel, Kampala, on November 2009 27, 2009 from 8:30 am to 4:30pm. The formation of a National Remote Engineering Consortium, premised on a Knowledge Transfer Partnership, constituted by the Academia, Industry and the Public/Private Sector, was aimed at enriching science education. It was presided over by the Minister of State for Higher Education, The Permanent Secretary Ministry of ICT, The Deputy Director NCHE, The Ag. VC Makerere University, DVC F&A, Dean and Staff Faculty of Technology and members from the private and public sectors.

27th – 28th November 2009: Inaugural Makerere University Grand Alumni Re-union

Makerere University Convocation held the inaugural Makerere University Alumni Re-union on November 2009 28, 2009 at Makerere University Freedom Square. The event was presided over by H. E Benjamin Mkapa as Chief Guest, and as part of the Pre re-union activities, a public lecture on the role of the academia in governance and National developmentwas held on November 2009 27, 2009 in the University Main Hall. Makerere University Convocation, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung and Advocates Coalition for Development and Environment jointly organized the lecture. The Grand Alumni re-union was marked by other activities like a 2-day exhibition at the Freedom square, A cocktail hosted by the Chief guest at Kampala Serena Hotel on 27th November 2009 and on the 28th, Laying of a foundation stone for the Alumni House in Katanga and crowned by an Alumni Dinner at the Freedom Square.

24th November 2009: Sir Tim Berners-Lee visits Makerere

Makerere University hosted the Inventor of the World Wide Web, Sir Tim Berners-Lee. At the Faculty of Computing and IT Block B Lab 2, where he delivered an address about the origin of the World Wide Web and answered burning questions from Students and Staff. He later on met with the Ag. Vice Chancellor, Professor Venansius Baryamureeba

23rd – 25th November 2009: International Workshop on Research in Adult Education

Makerere University Institute of Adult and Continuing Education in partnership with Deutschen Volkshochschul-Verbandes (DVV) organized the International workshop on Research in Adult Education.

23rd – 26th November 2009: COVIDSET 2009 Conference

From 23rd to 26th November 2009, Makerere University hosted the COVIDSET 2009 Conference for Vice Chancellors and Deans of Science, Engineering and Technology. The conference was held under the theme Revitalising Science, Engineering and Technology Research and development for Sustainable development in Africa. The Conference attracted participants from twelve African countries as well as the donor community and other agencies involved in higher education.

23rd November 2009: International Workshop on Research in Adult Education.

Makerere University Institute of Adult and Continuing Education in partnership with Deutschen Volkshochschul-Verbandes (DVV) organized the International workshop on Research in Adult Education.

23rd – 25th November 2009: First International Ethnomusicology Symposium

The Department of Music, Dance and Drama, supported by Norwegian Government and NUFU organized the First International Ethnomusicology Symposium at Makerere University. The symposium aimed at discussing issues around ethnic music and the preservation of that important aspect of our culture. The symposium concluded on the 25th November 2009 with the handover of ethnic music from Uganda collected in the 1940s and 50s collected by Professor Waschmann and which had since then been kept in Britain.

15th – 18th November 2009: International Conference on Family Planning Research and Best Practices

The School of Public Health in collaboration with the Bill and Melinda Gates and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health organized and hosted the International Conference on Family Planning Research and Best Practices from the 15th to 18th November 2009. The objective of the conference was to enable scientific and programmatic exchange and sharing of available findings and identification of knowledge gaps regarding family planning. Over 800 international, regional and local participants attended the workshop at the Speke Resort Munyonyo.

13th November 2009: International Students' Cultural Day.

The University Management together with the international students studying at Makerere University organised the first ever international students’ cultural day to showcase their culture, identity and countries. The event was held under the theme “Appreciating our culture in harmony.” The international students presented cultural exhibits; folk songs; tongue twisters; cultural dances; drama and plays; fashion shows and cultural dishes/delicacies.

13th – 18th November 2009: Statistics week and Africa Statistics Day Celebrations

The Institute of Statistics and Applied Economics together with the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) celebrated the statistics week. This week was marked by painting of the Makerere Police Post on Friday 13th Nov; A Student-organized statistics symposium, which started with a March 2010 around the University on 16th Nov and a public lecture that was delivered by Prof. J.P.M. Ntozi on the 18th of Nov at the St. Francis Conference Hall.

9th – 13th November 2009: Makerere-Sida Bilateral Research Program Annual Review meeting

Makerere-Sida Bilateral Research Program Annual Review Meeting was held at Makerere University. All Program and Sub-program Coordinators, researchers, past and current students supported under this program were scheduled to attend the plenary meeting.

8th – 13th November 2009: The 13th East, Central and Southern African Regional Meeting and International Scientific Conference

The 13th East, Central and Southern African Regional Meeting and International Scientific Conference organised by the Uganda Veterinary Association, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Makerere University and the Commonwealth Veterinary Association was held from 8th to 13th November 2009 2009 under the theme “Convergence Of Veterinary Science, Public Health And Trade For Sustainable Livelihoods In Sub-Saharan Africa”.

5th – 6th November 2009: School of Graduate Studies Annual Research and Innovations Dissemination Conference

The School of Graduate Studies (SGS) also organized and hosted the Annual Research and Innovations Dissemination Conference from the 5th to 6th November 2009 at Hotel Africana. The purpose of the Conference was to open an opportunity for individual researchers, units and research projects at the University to disseminate their research findings and share knowledge and experiences in research.
It was also an opportunity for our researchers and academics to interface with members of the public and private sector who could have an interest in our research projects for possible business solutions or investment opportunities.

 

Denis Wamala

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Mastercard Foundation Scholars Empower Schools in Mukono and Kyegwegwa Districts

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Mr. John Osuna, the Transition Lead, together with some of the Scholars, handing over the learning materials to the Chairperson of Parents' Association at Little Angels Primary School. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.

By Scholars Program Communication Team

On Saturday, November 16, 2024, Little Angels Junior School, Mawotto Village, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District celebrated an inspiring, joy-filled event. These two schools were selected to receive the generosity of Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service.

At St. Charles Rwahunga Nursery and Primary School, the Scholars donated various products, including Learning Materials, Geometry sets, Sanitary towels for the girls, sportswear for the boys’ football team, and other goodies.

The Community Nursery and Primary School serves 412 pupils with severe challenges due to inadequate infrastructure. The buildings are dilapidated, there is a shortage of desks, and the classrooms are small and overcrowded. These issues need to be addressed to ensure a better student learning environment.

Mr. Alex Mugisha,the Headteacher, extreme left, pupils and staff of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary school very excited after receiving learning materials donated by Scholars of Mastercard Foundation. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
Mr. Alex Mugisha,the Headteacher, extreme left, pupils and staff of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary school very excited after receiving learning materials donated by Scholars of Mastercard Foundation.

Mr. Alex Mugisha, the Headteacher of the School, expressed gratitude to the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation for the kind gesture they extended to his school.

“I am deeply grateful, along with the students and staff, for the generosity of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars. These materials will significantly enhance the learning environment for our pupils,” remarked Mr. Mugisha.

Mr. Nelson Ddumba, the Scholars Council Representative, encouraged the young learners at the event not to lose hope. He emphasized that regardless of their starting point, they can improve their circumstances by staying in school.

Mr. Ddumba Nelson, the Scholars' Council representative, speaking to the Pupils of St. Charles Rwahunga Primamary School. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
Mr. Ddumba Nelson, the Scholars’ Council representative, speaking to the Pupils of St. Charles Rwahunga Primamary School.

“Listen, my fellow students: do not give up. The only path to transforming your circumstances is through a steadfast commitment to your education and remaining in school. I have been in your shoes, but I pushed through and succeeded thanks to my mother’s unwavering support. Today, I proudly attend Makerere University, one of the leading institutions in Uganda. Embrace the challenge ahead and make your education your top priority!” Mr. Ddumba declared.

At Little Angels Junior School, pupils were excited to receive educational materials, reusable sanitary towels, mathematical sets, dictionaries, and textbooks for nursery to primary seven students.

Ms. Sarah Nturo, the headteacher, commended the Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University for the kind gesture.

Pupils of Little Angels express their excitement during a group photo with the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
Pupils of Little Angels express their excitement during a group photo with the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation.

She said the books will help the school improve its reading culture and performance.

“We are grateful to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University; we believe these books will significantly contribute to improving our pupils’ performance,” Ms. Nturo said.

Nturo also pointed out that they have challenges with the facilities and water as a school.

“Ever since we started this School, the education has improved because, in the past, parents could not allow their children to come here; instead, they would send them to the lake for fishing. But now, the children come only because they do not have somewhere to sit. We have few desks,” Nturo said.

A cross-section of Mastercard Foundation Scholars pose in a photograph with pupils of Little Angels Junior School. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
A cross-section of Mastercard Foundation Scholars pose in a photograph with pupils of Little Angels Junior School.

During the visit, the pupils mesmerised the scholars with rare dance moves. The excitement did not leave the Programme Implementation team and teachers in their seats, making it a fun-filled event. The audience was left yearning for more.

Addressing the school, Mr. John Osuna, the Transition Lead at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, urged the pupils to use their school time to prepare for a bright future.

“Do not mind where you are coming from. We all started like this. Education is an equalizer. Now that you have an opportunity to study, focus on making the best out of it. Be disciplined pupils and listen to your teachers. The sky will be the limit,” Mr Osuna said.

A cross-section of schoolgirls of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary School pose in a photo with sanitary towels donated by Scholars of Mastercard Foundation. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
A cross-section of schoolgirls of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary School pose in a photo with sanitary towels donated by Scholars of Mastercard Foundation.

During the event, Francis Kabuye Kaggwa, the Chairperson of the Parents Teacher Association (PTA) leadership, said that ever since the school started over 10 years back, they have never received guests who bring them gifts like how the Mastercard Foundation Scholars did.

“I think you have seen how excited the children were. We are all happy this has never happened to our school. Who are we to receive these gifts? We have challenges, but with friends like God on our side, we shall conquer,” Mr. Kabuye noted.

The boys' football team of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary School pose in a photo after receiving the sports wear donated by the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
The boys’ football team of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary School pose in a photo after receiving the sports wear donated by the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation.

The Scholars’ Day of Community Service is an annual event where Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University engage in community service as a way of giving back. This initiative aims to empower vulnerable individuals in the community and contribute positively to society.

Mak Editor

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Prof. Nawangwe calls for Increased Government Sponsorship for Students with Disabilities

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe addressing the gathering during the International Day for Persons With Disabilities commemoration. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Mak Communication Team

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, while speaking at the inaugural commemoration of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities at Makerere University has appealed to the Government to increase the number of students with disabilities on government sponsorship.

The event held on Wednesday, 13th November 2024 was organised by the Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students’ Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities and held in the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium.

Part of the audience, listening attentively during the event. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Part of the audience, listening attentively during the event.

The day’s theme was: “Empowering Inclusion: Breaking Barriers, Unlocking Potential”

“Students with disabilities should be the first to be admitted on Government sponsorship because there are not so many,” Prof. Nawangwe said.

Hon. Hellen Asamo, signing a commitment card to continue supporting inclusivity at Makerere University and the country as a whole. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Hon. Hellen Asamo, signing a commitment card to continue supporting inclusivity at Makerere University and the country as a whole.

 Prof. Nawangwe called upon the government to devise a scheme and policy for integrating students with disabilities into the working environment after graduation.

Prof. Nawangwe noted that the University has established a Disability Support Centre, a one-stop facility to ensure equal access to education and life, promote inclusivity, and support students and staff with disabilities.

Prof. Nawangwe handing over a gift to the Chief Guest, Hon Asamo. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe handing over a gift to the Chief Guest, Hon Asamo.

“Over the years, Makerere University has branded itself as a place that actively and loudly promotes increased awareness about the rights and needs of students and staff with disabilities.” Prof. Nawangwe remarked.

While addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest, Hon. Hellen Grace Asamo, the State minister for Disability Affairs, called upon Persons with Disabilities to always believe in themselves and be able to break the barriers of the inferiority complex.

One of the students with disability receiving an award for being supportive to other students with disabilities. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
One of the students with disability receiving an award for being supportive to other students with disabilities.

“You have to show people that you have the potential, and when people get to know your potential, they will begin to include and engage you. But if you do not have your potential, nobody will include you. They will think you are just someone who is just there seated and begging,” Hon. Asamo noted.

In her welcome remarks, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students at Makerere University, said that the University is making a deliberate effort to pay particular attention to the decisive implementation of inclusive Policies and Practices.

Dr. Kabumbuli, receiving the award on behalf of the VC, as recognition for the efforts the university was making towards inclusivity. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Kabumbuli, receiving the award on behalf of the VC, as recognition for the efforts the university was making towards inclusivity.

“This is where we want all people to thrive and grow. Therefore, we are proud to accept and celebrate our differences and uniqueness. We welcome you here to build a culture of active support for each other and to declare that by championing a conducive environment for students and staff with disability, we are part of the change-makers of today,” Dr Kabumbuli said.

Dr. Kabumbuli also highlighted several policies the University has implemented, such as the Policy for Persons with Disabilities and safeguarding, Accommodation policy, University rules and regulations, the Human resource manual, and the student guild constitution that provides inclusive participation in student leadership and admission policies.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program receiving the award on behalf of the Team. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program receiving the award on behalf of the Team.

“These policies protect and enhance the rights of both staff and students with disabilities. For example, we have a student guild minister for persons with disabilities to ensure their voices are heard,” Dr. Kabumbuli noted.

Makerere has directed attention to ensuring accessible and comfortable accommodations for students with Disabilities by having designated accessible hostels and rooms. The University provides salaries, lodging, and meals for helpers who assist students with disabilities. A concentrated effort is also being made to build ramps, elevators, and accessible pathways to facilitate navigation for students and staff.

A panel of experts discussing the issues affecting PWDs and how to mitigate them. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A panel of experts discussing the issues affecting PWDs and how to mitigate them.

According to Dr Kabumbuli, the University has embraced a drive to facilitate students’ access to assistive devices, including wheelchairs, white canes, brailling machines, hearing aids, etc.

“As part of our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, the University has designated a specialized space within the library, equipped with assistive technologies and resources, specifically for students with disabilities to ensure equal access to knowledge and academic success for all. We have also put in place special arrangements, such as extra time during examinations to enable access to education,” Dr Kabumbuli said.

Hon. Minister representing students with disabilities on the students' guild addressing the audience. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Hon. Minister representing students with disabilities on the students’ guild addressing the audience.

Dr. Kabumbuli acknowledged the support from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, the Ministry of Gender, and the School of Law, which are committed to championing diversity, inclusion, and equity for People with Disabilities.

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated annually on December 3rd to raise awareness and support for people with disabilities worldwide.

The Commemorative card that was signed by guest as commitment to supporting inclusivity at Makerere University. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Commemorative card that was signed by guest as commitment to supporting inclusivity at Makerere University.

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The 3rd Fundis and Technicians sensitization event and exhibition held successfully

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The 3rd annual Fundis and Technicians sensitization event and exhibition by manufacturers of building materials organized by the Department Architecture and Physical Planning at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Makerere University came to a close with a call for increased partnerships between training institutions and the community.

The event that attracted 200 participants including masons, fundis, painters, builders, metal and electrical fabricators ran from Thursday 24th to Friday 25th October 2024 at CEDAT. It was supported by several stakeholders and was characterized by training sessions and an exhibition of building materials by different companies that make cement, paint, water tanks tiles and many more.

Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Makerere University.

Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe at the opening of the training. In his remarks, he extended appreciation to the technicians for accepting to take part in the training which he said was key in ensuring that they gain from continuous learning. Prof. Alinaitwe observed that although some of them did not get through formal training, it was important that they took part in such training programs to keep abreast of the developments in the construction industry where they undertake the bulk of the work as masons, technicians, plumbers, and metal fabricators.

‘Keep improving, we need to up our game in terms of quality’, he said while making reference to the need for quality output.  He cautioned them on issues of cost and cheating of their clients by making realistic costs.  ‘We need to cost the work well taking into account the materials, the labor, the equipment used, and the overheads’.  The other area that needed to be taken care of by the technicians included time management, which reflects on attitudes towards work, team work.   While addressing the gathering in his capacity as Chairman of the Engineers Registration Board, Prof. Alinaitwe said the upcoming engineering Registration Bill, if approved, has a provision for the registration of all artisans and hence the need to have the minimum requirements for the stakeholders to be registered. He also stressed the need to bring on board as more women as possible.  ‘We want to see more women, who can do some aspects in construction better than men like painting.

Prof. Moses Musinguzi, the Principal of the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, Makerere University.

Prof. Moses Musinguzi, the Principal of the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology while welcoming the trainees to the college said the training is a good initiative that will help address challenge of skill and work match.  He encouraged the trainees to do smart work, and take due consideration of ethics and customer care. He encouraged the department to extend the training opportunity to other units of the college and the university and also make it more formal, as part and parcel of the training program of the college in liaison with bodies like UBTEB.

Assoc. Prof. Kizito Maria Kasule, the Deputy Principal CEDAT while appreciating the initiative of the department said countries like Germany have apprenticeship training that help the training of students to gain skills equivalent to those acquired while in formal institutions of learning.  He said the academia in Uganda is increasingly recognizing the importance of the informal sector in the growth of the country. ‘We need to learn from you. Almost 90% of the people in the construction industry have been informally trained’. He said by learning from each other, the two sectors jointly make a contribution towards the development of the country.

Dr. Amin Tamale Kiggundu, the head of the Department of Architecture and Physical Planning said the initiative, a community outreach program of the college started three years ago in the year 2022 with 60 Fundis and masons, in 2023, the number was increased to 120 Fundis and the current 2024, was 200 Fundis of various categories, including painters, builders, metal fabricators, plumbers and electrical fabricators. He said this community outreach program aims at sharing the accumulated scientific knowledge in building, design and construction technologies at CEDAT, sharing the expertise, knowledge and experiences with communities in greater Kampala and hence bridging the existing knowledge and skills gap between the training institutions and the communities.

Dr. Amin Tamale Kiggundu, the head of the Department of Architecture and Physical Planning, Makerere University

The 21st century is characterized by collaboration, partnerships, and establishment of knowledge economies.  He said based on the trainings held so far, it is clear that partnerships between the training institutions and the communities were possible especially the Fundis who are closer to the communities. ‘We also want to learn from the Fundi’s experiences, how they are able to connect to the communities in some cases better than those who have gone through the training institutions’, he said. He further noted that the majority of fundis are young people that need to be supported with skills and other ways of nurturing them. The dream of the department, he said is to introduce an open door policy that allows fundis and other university students to come to learn.  

Several organizations supported the event and participated in the exhibition and they included Habitat for Humanity, Uganda, Green Building Council Uganda, The National Building Board, Uganda Clays Limited, Centenary Bank, Steel and Tube Industries Ltd, Simba Cement, Plascon, Goodwill, Cresttanks among others.

Alex Isemaghendera

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