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AET2011 Conference Papers

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The Second International Conference on Advances in Engineering and Technology (AET2011, 31st Jan – 2nd Feb 2011) was a follow up on the 1st International Conference on Advances in Engineering and Technology that was held in 2006.

The conference provided a forum for scientists, researchers, professionals and industry leaders from all over the world and the African region in particular, to exchange ideas on current scientific advances in engineering and technology.

Below are some of the papers that were presented;

Abaho et al, Climate change and its Impacts on River Flows and Recharge in the Sezibwa Catchment, Uganda: pdf, ps

Argen et al, Cost and Time Overrun in Construction Projects in a Multicultural Setting: pdf, ps

Akinlabi et al, Effect of Travel speed on Joint properties of Dissimilar Metal Friction Stir Welds: pdf, ps

Alinaitwe, Contractors’ Perspective on Critical Factors for Successful Implementation of Private Public Partnerships in Construction Projects in Uganda: pdf, ps

Anyala et al, Assessment of the Impact of Climate Change on Road Maintenance: pdf, ps

Anyiko et al, Investigation of the Suitability of Recycled Carpet Fibre as a Soil Reinforcement Material: pdf, ps

Apolot et al, An Investigation into the Causes of Delay and Cost Overrun in Uganda’s Public Sector Construction Projects: pdf, ps

Aulin et al, Issues Confronting Women Participation in the Construction Industry: pdf, ps

Auziane et al, Design of Weather Station and Measurement Equipment for Assessment of Buildings Energy Use in Mozambique: pdf, ps

Baloi, Feasibility Analysis of Timber Houses in Mozambique: pdf, ps

Chipofoya et al, Evaluation of Wastewater Treatment Technologies at Blantyre WWTW, Malawi, in the Context of the ED-WAVE Tool: pdf, ps

Chipofoya et al, Evaluation of case-based design principles and the decision tree selection process in the design of Soche wastewater treatment plant, Blantyre, Malawi: pdf, ps

Dawoud et al, Security in Embedded Systems: Design Challenges: pdf, ps

Dawoud et al, A Proposed Public Key Management Scheme for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks: pdf, ps

Dawoud et al, A New Threshold Multisignature Scheme for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks: pdf, ps

Dawoud et al, Trust Establishment in Ad Hoc Networks by Certificate Distribution and Postponed Verification: pdf, ps

Ecuru et al, Integrating Science, Technology and Innovation in National Development Planning Process: the Case of Uganda: pdf, ps

Ikponmwosa et al, Strength Characteristics of Concrete Beams with Cement Partially Replaced by Uncalcined Soldier-Ant Mound Clay: pdf, ps

Irumba et al, Modeling the Dynamics of Housing and Population Growth in Kampala City: pdf, ps

Kakitahi et al, Towards development of a whole life costing based model for evaluation of building designs: pdf, ps

Kalanzi et al, Evaluation of Waste Minimization Alternatives for the Galvanizing Production Process: A case study of Uganda Baati Ltd.: pdf ,

Kanai et al, Adaptive PID Dc Motor Speed Controller With Parameters Optimized with Hybrid Optimization Strategy: pdf, ps

Kariko-Buhwezi et al, Challenges to the Sustainability of Small Scale Biogass Technologies in Uganda: pdf, ps

Kasembe et al, Irreversibilities in High Temperature Biomass Gasification: pdf, ps

Katende et al, A Study into the Factors Hindering Development of the Construction Industry in Uganda: pdf, ps

Kayaga et al, Using Economic Instruments for Water Resources Management in the City of the Future: Case Studies from Spain and Uganda: pdf, ps

Kayondo et al, Algorithmic Incorporation of Geographical Information Technologies in Road Infrastructure Maintenance in Uganda: pdf, ps

Kirabira et al, Beneficiation and Evaluation of Mutaka kaolin: pdf, ps

Kizza et al, Estimating Areal Rainfall over the Lake Victoria and its Basin using Ground-based and Satellite Data: pdf, ps

Kombe et al, High Free Fatty Acid (FFA) Feedstock Pre-Treatment Method for Biodiesel Production: pdf, ps

Kudenyo, Rainfall Runoff Model for River Sosiani's Catchment: pdf, ps

Kwesiga, Contribution of Industrial Research in Transformation of Developing Countries: pdf, ps

Lubwama et al, Wear Mechanisms of Piston Seals in Reciprocating Hand Pumps for Rural Drinking Water Supply: pdf, ps

Lugano et al, Modellign the Influence of Moisture Content in High temperature Gasification (HTAG) of Biomass: pdf, ps

Lugano et al, Effects of Moisture Content in Biomass Gasification: pdf, ps

Mashingo et al, Characteristic Properties of Tanzanian Coal for High Temperature Gasification: pdf, ps

Mhilu et al, Thermal Degradation Characteristics of Blends of Tanzanian Bituminous Coal and Coffee Husks: pdf, ps

Misginna et al, Yield and Chemical Characteristics of Charcoal Produced by TLUDND Gasifier Cookstove Using Eucalyptus Wood as Feedstock: pdf, ps

Mkumbwa et al, A Cost Effective Solar PV Power Solution for Rural Household in Tanzania: The case of Kondoa District: pdf, ps

Mukasa et al, Role of Intangible Assets in the Adoption of Advanced Manufacturing Technologies (AMT’s) in Developing Countries: Case Study of Uganda: pdf, ps

Mukiibi, The Effect of Urbanisation on the Housing Conditions of the Urban Poor in Kampala, Uganda: pdf, ps

Mukiibi, An Evaluation of Factors that have Influenced Housing Policy Development in Uganda: pdf, ps

Mukwaya et al, Saturation Flow Rate for Through-Traffic at Signalized Junctions in Kampala: pdf, ps

Musaazi, From R&D to Entrepreneurship: pdf, ps

Musinguzi et al, Small-scale CHP for Rural Electrification in Uganda – The State-ofthe- art and Prospective Development: pdf, ps

Musinguzi, Application of Spatial Technologies and Field Techniques to Assess the Status of Wetlands in Lake Kyoga Basin in Uganda: pdf, ps

Musinguzi, A Tree Model for Diffusion of Spatial Data Infrastructures in Developing Countries: pdf, ps

Mutambi et al, Transferring Best Practices for Uganda Technological Innovation and Sustainable Growth: pdf, ps

Mutesi et al, Application of ICT in the Construction Industry in Kampala: pdf, ps

Mutesi et al, Analysis of Storage-Estimation Techniques for Optimal Rainwater Reservoir Sizing: pdf, ps

Mutikanga et al, Investigating thte Impact of Utility Sub-metering on Revenue Water: pdf, ps

Mutikanga et al, Decision Support Tool for Optimal Water Meter Replacement: pdf, ps

Muzenda et al, The Effect of Zinc Ion Concentration and pH on the Leaching Kinetics of Calcined Zinc Oxide Ore: pdf, ps

Muzenda et al, Phase Equilibrium of Volatile Organic Compounds in Silicon oil Using the UNIFAC Procedure: An Estimation: pdf, ps

Mwakali et al, Local Content in the Oil and Gas Industry: Implications for Uganda: pdf, ps

Mwebesa et al, Simulating Bearing Capacity Failure of Surface Loading on Sand Using COMSOL: pdf, ps

Mwesige et al, Estimating The Critical GAP and FOLLOW-UP Headway at Roundabouts in Uganda: pdf, ps

Mwesige et al, Identifying and Fixing High Traffic Crash Locations in the Road Network in Uganda: pdf, ps

Mwesige et al, Opportunities for Generating Electricity from Municipal Solid Waste: Case of Kampala City Council Landfill: pdf, ps

Nalumansi et al, Determining Productivity of Masons for both Stretcher and Header Bonding on Building Sites: pdf, ps

Nawangwe, The Architectural Transformation of Makerere University Neighbourhoods during the Period 1990-2010: pdf, ps

Ngirane-Katashaya et al, An Innovative Intervention by a Multiplicity of Surface and Underground Interlinked Dams/Weirs, Sand Storages, and Sub-Geological Engineering to Solve Karamoja's Perennial Water Stress: pdf, ps

Nnaggenda et al, User Participation in the Eyes of an Architect and Gendered Spaces: pdf, ps

Nturanabo et al, Performance Appraisal of the Casamance Kiln as a Replacement to the Traditional Charcoal Kilns in Uganda: pdf, ps

Nyeko-Ogiramoi et al, Assessment of the impact of climate change on extreme precipitation and temperature events over the upper River Nile basin: pdf, ps

Ocen et al, An Analysis of the Competitiveness of Local Construction Contractors in Uganda: pdf, ps

Oke et al, Value Management in the Nigerian Construction Industry: Militating Factors and the Perceived Benefits: pdf, ps

Okello et al, Optimising Densification Condition of Coffee Husks Briquettes Using Response Surface Methodology: pdf, ps

Okidi et al, Gender Research as Knowledge Resource in Technology and Engineering: pdf, ps

Okidi, Hybrid E-Learning for Rural Secondary Schools in Uganda: Co-Evolution in Triple Helix Processes: pdf, ps

Okidi, Longitudinal Analysis of Performance of Ugandan Rural Advanced- Level Students in Physics Practicals: pdf, ps

Okodi et al, Approximate Large Deflection Analysis of Thin Rectangular Plates under Distributed Lateral Line Load: pdf, ps

Okodi et al, Exact Large Deflection Analysis of Thin Rectangular Plates under Distributed Lateral Line Load: pdf, ps

Okou et al, An Opportunity to Enhance Rural Electrification in sub-Saharan Africa through the Local Manufacture of Flywheel Energy Storage System: pdf, ps

Okullo et al, Transesterification Reaction Kinetics of Jatropha Oil for Biodiesel Production: pdf, ps

Omolo et al, Perspectives on City Planning of Post Independence Kampala: The Emergence of the Metropolitan Growth Model and the Hexagonal Cell: pdf, ps

Openy et al, Appropriate Technology for Sustainable Rainwater Harvesting Based on Optimal Rainfall Estimates: pdf, ps

Otim et al, The Causes and Impact of Uncompleted Buildings; Studies in Kampala City: pdf, ps

Otim et al, Cost Control Techniques Used On Building Construction Sites in Uganda: pdf, ps

Otim et al, Design of Biogas Plant for Rural Households in Uganda (Case Study: Apac District): pdf, ps

Rodrigues et al, Influence of Solar Shading on Indoor Climate of Buildings: pdf, ps

Rodrigues et al, Influence of Building Orientation on the Indoor Climate of Buildings: pdf, ps

Rwabuhungu, Specific Transverse Distribution of Nutrients and its Major Impact on the Sustainable Development of the Lake Kivu Methane Gas Exploitation: pdf, ps

Sebitosi et al, The Smart grid: adopting new concepts for infrastructure to power Africa’s emerging industrial revolution: pdf, ps

Semambya, Recycling of Burnt Clay Rubble as Structural Concrete: pdf, ps

Semuwemba et al, Determining the Reaeration Coefficient and Hydrodynamic Properties of Rivers Using Inert Gas Tracers: pdf, ps

Semwogerere et al, Analysis of Some Existing Erosion and Deposition Models: pdf, ps

Senfuka et al, Options for Improvement of the Ugandan Iron and Steel Industry: pdf, ps

Ssengendo et al, Geoid Determination In Uganda: Current Status: pdf, ps

Stack et al, Context-Sensitive Maintenance Management using Mobile Tools: pdf, ps

Swart, Modeling a Single-sideband Transmitter in SIMETRIX for Instructional Purposes: pdf, ps

Tayebwa et al, Structural Consideration in Design of Reinforced Concrete Slabs with Openings: pdf, ps

Tickodri-Togboa, On the Contribution of Victoria Nile River Discharge to the Hydrological Performance of East Africa's Lake Victoria: pdf, ps

Tumwesigye, Urban flood modeling: beyond the preserve of developed countries: pdf, ps

Tumwesigye-omwe, A Study of the Use of Ground Investigation Reports during Foundation Design in Kampala: pdf, ps

Twite et al, Assessment of Natural Adhesives in Banana Leaf Composite Materials for Architectural Applications: pdf, ps

Uwase et al, Interactive Tools for Learning Sensor Network Basics: pdf, ps

Vestbro, Impacts of Urbanisation in Low-Income Countries: pdf, ps

Viljoen et al, Energy Management of a Solar/Hydrogen Driven Power Plant: pdf, ps

Wamuziri, Innovative Models for Procurement of Major Infrastructure Projects in Development: pdf, ps

Zziwa et al, Strength Characterisation of Timbers for Building Construction in Uganda: pdf, ps

 

Denis Wamala

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Mak and University of the West of England Sign MoU to Advance Research, Innovation and Skills Development

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (3rd R) and Ms. Jo Midgley (3rd L) shake hands after signing the MoU as H.E. Nimisha Madhvani (2nd L), H.E. Miriam Otengo (L), Prof. Helen Nambalariwa Nkabala (R) and Mr. Emmanuel Kitamirike (2nd R) witness on 17th October 2025. Makerere University and the University of the West of England (UWE) sign MoU aimed at strengthening collaboration in research, innovation, and enterprise development, 17th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University and the University of the West of England (UWE) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening collaboration in research, innovation, and enterprise development. The signing ceremony took place on Friday, 17th October 2025, in the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom, Main Administration Building, Makerere University.

The partnership will focus on joint research initiatives in climate science, early childhood development and elderly care, wildlife ecology and conservation management, technology, and sustainable agriculture.

The Uganda High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, H.E. Nimisha Madhvani, who witnessed the signing, congratulated both institutions and reaffirmed the Government of Uganda’s commitment to strengthening international collaborations that enhance education, innovation, and investment.

“We are not only promoting education, but also tourism, business, and investment. This partnership is a great bridge between Uganda and the United Kingdom,” said H.E. Madhvani. “With the full support of His Excellency the President and the First Lady, we look forward to building on this momentum to establish impactful initiatives, including a proposed teaching hospital.”

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (R) and Ms. Jo Midgley (L) display the signed MoU. Makerere University and the University of the West of England (UWE) sign MoU aimed at strengthening collaboration in research, innovation, and enterprise development, 17th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (R) and Ms. Jo Midgley (L) display the signed MoU.

Speaking during the event, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to producing graduates who are not only employable but also capable of creating jobs and transforming their communities.

“Our goal is to train students who go out to create their own jobs and employ others who have not had the opportunity to attend university,” said Prof. Nawangwe. “We are working seriously on issues of food security, health, and conflict management — particularly in the Great Lakes region, which has one of the highest numbers of conflicts per capita. Through research and collaboration, we aim to address these challenges while ensuring Africa is not left behind in the digital economy.”

Prof. Nawangwe also highlighted Makerere’s initiatives in the digital and peace sectors, including the work of the Rotary Peace Center, which plays a vital role in promoting peace across the world by equipping fellows with academic training, practice, and global networking opportunities through a year-long, blended-learning professional certificate program.

Representing the University of the West of England, the Vice Chancellor Ms. Jo Midgley commended Makerere University for its strong research focus and expressed enthusiasm for the partnership.

“Like Makerere, we are a comprehensive university. We want this partnership to go beyond conversations and translate into action,” she said. “Our areas of strength include sustainability, climate change, future technology, health, and community placemaking. We believe this collaboration offers a unique opportunity to co-create programmes that prepare students for the evolving global workforce.”

Officials from Makerere and UWE pose for a group photo at the Main Building Entrance after the MoU signing. Makerere University and the University of the West of England (UWE) sign MoU aimed at strengthening collaboration in research, innovation, and enterprise development, 17th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Officials from Makerere and UWE pose for a group photo at the Main Building Entrance after the MoU signing.

She further emphasized the need for universities to work closely with industry partners to co-design programs that meet current skill demands while promoting innovation and enterprise among students.

The Deputy High Commissioner, Ambassador Miriam Otengo, commended Makerere for its leadership in higher education and shared ongoing efforts to mobilize the Makerere alumni in the United Kingdom. She also revealed plans to host a Makerere Alumni Symposium in London, aimed at showcasing the University’s excellence and strengthening ties with its diaspora community.

Also in attendance was Mr. Hefin Rees KC, Chairman of Spotlight on Africa, a UK-based charitable organization, who expressed interest in partnering with Makerere University to establish a teaching hospital in Mbale focused on women and children’s health. He praised Makerere for producing world-class professionals and reaffirmed his organization’s commitment to supporting health-related initiatives.

In his closing remarks, Prof. Nawangwe thanked the High Commission for facilitating the partnership and welcomed the opportunity to discuss the proposed teaching hospital, describing it as “a timely and vital project for Uganda’s health sector.”

“This collaboration represents a new chapter for Makerere University and the University of the West of England. Together, we will advance research, promote innovation, and equip our students to respond to global challenges,” he said. The ceremony concluded with the formal signing of the MoU, marking the beginning of a long-term partnership built on shared values of excellence, innovation, and community impact.

Eve Nakyanzi

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Makerere is No.1 in the Region – THE University Rankings

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Prof. Sarah Ssali (3rd Left) with Left to Right: Mr. Matthias Ssemanda, Dr. Cyprian Misinde, Prof. Julius Kikooma, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, and Prof. Robert Wamala during the press briefing held on 16th October 2025. Vice Chancellor's Boardroom, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Acting (Ag.) Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sarah Ssali on Thursday 16th October, 2025 held a press conference to update members of the Media on the 2026 World University Rankings by Times Higher Education (THE).

The event held in the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom, Main Building, was attended by the Director Graduate Training-Prof. Julius Kikooma, Director Quality Assurance-Dr. Cyprian Misinde, Dean of Students-Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, Director Research, Innovations, and Partnerships-Prof. Robert Wamala, Deputy Chief – Public Relations-Ms. Eunice Rukundo, Ag. Manager International Relations-Mr. Matthias Ssemanda, and staff from the Offices of the Vice and Deputy Vice Chancellors.

The proceedings of the Press Conference follow below;

Vice Chancellor’s Press Statement

UNIVERSITY RANKINGS: MAKERERE STILL NUMBER ONE IN THE REGION

It gives me great pleasure to share with our stakeholders and the general public that Makerere University has been ranked Number 1. in the East African region, in the Times Higher Education rankings released this month of October 2025.

In its 2026 World University Rankings, Times Higher Education (THE) places Makerere University in top position in East Africa, and in the 801-1000 band globally. The ranking considers five performance indicators, namely: Teaching; Research environment; Research quality; International Outlook; and Industry. Makerere’s overall score was 37.2, significantly outperforming peer institutions in the Region that average scores of 18.8.

In particular, Makerere University continues to thrive in Research Quality where we scored 54.2% but even better in International Outlook where we scored highest with 69.7%. See Table 1 for details. On the continent, Makerere University ranked 8th in the 2024 Sub-Saharan African University Rankings.

We would like to reassure all stakeholders and well-wishers that Makerere University continues to hold steadfast as the regional leader in higher education. Our commitment to deliver excellence in our teaching, research, and socioeconomic impact has not wavered.

WE BUILD FOR THE FUTURE.

Thank you.

Fact Sheet

UNIVERSITY RANKINGS

Table 1: East African Universities – 2025 Ranking Comparison

RankNameOverall Teaching Research Env. Research Quality Industry Int. Outlook
801–1000Makerere University35.5–38.921.526.654.232.869.7
1501+Kenyatta University10.3–27.214.39.134.217.454.6
1501+Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences10.3–27.221.614.930.327.554.6
1501+University of Dar es Salaam10.3–27.214.511.126.521.947.2
1501+University of Nairobi10.3–27.215.916.139.722.549.4
1501+University of Rwanda10.3–27.214.114.925.621.157.5

Figure 1: Makerere University Performance over ten (10) years
Figure 1: Makerere University Performance over ten (10) years

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ZAMREN Board Visits Mak, Discusses AI

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Prof. Sarah Ssali and Prof. Mundia Muya (C) with Members of Management, the ZAMREN delegation and other officials after the courtesy call on 14th October 2025. Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN) Board led by the Chairperson, Prof. Mundia Muya courtesy call on the Vice Chancellor, 14th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Board of the Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN) led by the Chairperson, Prof. Mundia Muya on 14th October 2025 paid a courtesy call on the Vice Chancellor, Makerere University. The Board which is on a two-day exposure visit to the Research and Education Network of Uganda (RENU) was received by the Acting (Ag.) Vice Chancellor and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Prof. Sarah Ssali in the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom.

The Chairperson was accompanied by Mr. Ronald Hatoongo and Mr. Stein Mkandawire, the Board Secretary and CEO of ZAMREN respectively, as well as RENU’s CEO-Mr. Nicholas Mbonimpa and RENUMESH Technologies CEO-Mr. Brian Masiga. In attendance were Mr. Samuel Mugabi-Director DICTS, Prof. Robert Wamala-Director Research, Innovations and Partnerships (DRIP), and Prof. Tonny Oyana-Principal College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS).

Also present were; Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda-Director Institute of Open, Distance and eLearning (IODeL), Dr. Godfrey Mayende-Deputy Director IODeL, Dr. Michael Walimbwa- College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Dr. Cathy Mbidde- Ag. Manager. Makerere University Innovation Pod, Ms. Eunice Rukundo-Deputy Chief-Public Relations and staff from the Office of the Vice Chancellor.

In her welcome remarks, Prof. Ssali thanked the ZAMREN Board for including the courtesy call on their Kampala itinerary and extended warm greetings from the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. She noted that Makerere as a founding member of RENU has enjoyed a mutually beneficial collaboration, that has benefited both staff and students in the form of supporting growing connectivity needs, as well as training, mentorship, and development of technical skills for both continuing students and graduates.

Prof. Sarah Ssali (R) presents an assortment of Mak Souvenirs to Prof. Mundia Muya (L). Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN) Board led by the Chairperson, Prof. Mundia Muya courtesy call on the Vice Chancellor, 14th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali (R) presents an assortment of Mak Souvenirs to Prof. Mundia Muya (L).

Turning to the gist of the courtesy call, the Acting Vice Chancellor noted that the Makerere University through the Centre for Artificial Intelligence (MAK-AI) seeks to harness the transformative power of AI to address society’s most pressing challenges. “Projects undertaken by our Centre tackle real-world challenges in health, agriculture, languages, and beyond.”

Prof. Ssali nevertheless underscored the importance of upholding ethics in all AI undertakings “Mindful of global trends elsewhere, the work of the Makerere AI Centre is guided by the principles of Responsible AI, ensuring that systems are transparent, accountable, fair, and designed to benefit society.”

She therefore called upon the delegation to thoughtfully engage with the ideas presented during their visit with the aim of collectively exploring both institution can better equip staff and students to meaningfully make the most of this fast-evolving trend.

On behalf of the Board, Prof. Muya who is substantively the Vice Chancellor of the University of Zambia thanked Prof. Ssali and Members of Management present for according his delegation a warm reception to Makerere University, “one of Africa’s most distinguished centres of higher learning.

Makerere University is not only a symbol of academic excellence but also a beacon of leadership in higher education on the African continent”, remarked Prof. Muya.

The Chairperson equally expressed the delegation’s keenness to understand how AI is being adopted, and how the academia is embracing the technology as an enabler of teaching and research. “At ZAMREN, we view digital transformation and AI integration as critical enablers of academic excellence, efficiency, and competitiveness across higher education institutions,” he remarked, adding that “We therefore look to Makerere University’s experience to draw practical lessons that can inform and inspire our efforts back home.”

Prof. Mundia Muya headed the ZAMREN delegation. Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN) Board led by the Chairperson, Prof. Mundia Muya courtesy call on the Vice Chancellor, 14th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Mundia Muya headed the ZAMREN delegation.

Turning to the lessons from Makerere in line with digital transformation and ICT, the Director DICTS shared that owing to the partnership with RENU, internet bandwidth, a vital enabler of AI transformation currently stands at 5 Gbps of monthly consumption, with plans to scale-up to 8 Gbps. He added that RENU has also facilitated Makerere’s access to Open Libraries, and Eduroam – a secure, encrypted Wi-Fi network across to staff and students freely access the internet across partner institutions in Uganda using their University emails.

Furthermore on the enablers of AI integration, Mr. Mugabi noted that in line with digitalization of institutional business process, the University Council took a bold step to develop all information systems in-house, a move that has reduced costs spent on offshore solutions, and hemorrhage of skills. He pointed to the introduction of open source solutions, and AI policy and global collaborations with corporations such as Google as additional enablers.

Addressing AI readiness, Prof. Tonny Oyana pointed out the need for the University of Zambia to start early, citing Makerere efforts which began as far back as 2007, when Dr. John Quinn joined the institution after his PhD. He added that Dr. Quinn together with other former staff from Makerere formed Sunbird AI, a thriving initiative creating practical systems for the benefit of community.

Prof. Oyana also pointed to AI initiatives that have attracted up to USD 5million from Google Awards, staff with specialized skills in the creation and development of sensor technologies, top notch students that win continental and global awards from companies such as Huawei, and active engagements with partners to produce solutions to enhance diagnosis of malaria, tuberculosis and cancer as some of areas that demonstrate Makerere’s AI readiness.

The meeting in session. Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN) Board led by the Chairperson, Prof. Mundia Muya courtesy call on the Vice Chancellor, 14th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The meeting in session.

Addressing academic and research innovation, Prof. Robert Wamala pointed out that Makerere, in recognition that the institution cannot achieve its vision alone is intentional about seeking and nurturing mutually beneficial partnerships. Furthermore, he shared that Vice Chancellor’s Annual Research Excellence Awards reward and recognize the efforts of staff who have excelled in publication, teaching and winning grants.

The Director DRIP equally underscored the need for dissemination of research produced by staff and students, pointing out the annual research and innovation week as a flagship event for not only showcasing research but also forging meaningful partnerships with stakeholders. In line with technology transfer, Prof. Wamala said that the University through the Intellectual Property Management Office ensures that innovations developed by staff and students packaged for adoption by other individuals or organisations.

Addressing the use of technologies in academic work, Prof. Birevu noted that IODeL conducts capacity building in instructional design, online facilitation, use of AI in teaching and digital assessments. “We have also advised the University on ODeL and Distance Education strategies, for instance, we have developed a ten-year masterplan for distance education with support from the Korean Government to outline how Makerere University is going to integrate distance education within its offering” he added.

At the close of the deliberations the ZAMREN expressed sincere appreciation to the Ag. Vice Chancellor and Members of Management for the free sharing that pointed out a number of priorities.

Mark Wamai

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