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CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR THE STUDY OF THE U.S. INSTITUTES FOR SCHOLARS

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15 years ago

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The Public Affairs Section is soliciting candidate nominations/applications for six competitive Summer 2012 Study of the U.S. Institutes for university faculty and other related scholars. In-country deadline for nominations and applications is November 30, 2011. Nominees and interested applicants should email their curriculum vitae to : Dorothy Ngalombi, Cultural Affairs Specialist, U.S. Mission Uganda; email: NgalombiDN@state.gov by the deadline. Please share widely with your colleagues.

1) INSTITUTE DESCRIPTION: Study of the United States Institutes for Scholars are intensive post-graduate level academic programs with integrated study tours whose purpose is to provide foreign university faculty and other scholars the opportunity to deepen their understanding of U.S. society, culture, and institutions. The ultimate goal is to strengthen curricula and to improve the quality of teaching about the United States in academic institutions abroad.

The institutes will take place at various colleges and universities throughout the United States over the course of six weeks beginning in June 2012. Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the website to obtain general information about the Institutes. The website address is:
http://exchanges.state.gov/academicexchanges/scholars.html.

A. The Institute on American Politics and Political Thought will provide a multinational group of 18 foreign university faculty with a deeper understanding of U.S. political institutions and major currents in American
political thought. The institute will offer an overview of political thought during the founding period (constitutional foundations), and the development and current functioning of the American presidency, Congress, and the federal judiciary. The examination of political institutions will include the electoral system, political parties and interest groups, the civil service system, media and think tanks, and the welfare/regulatory state. The institute will address modern political and cultural issues in the United States (including but not limited to civil rights, women's rights, immigration, etc.) and the significance of public discourse in the formulation of public policy.

B. The Institute on Contemporary American Literature will provide a multinational group of up to 18 foreign university faculty and scholars with a deeper understanding of U.S. society and culture, past and present,
through an examination of contemporary American literature. Its purpose is twofold: to explore contemporary American writers and writing in a variety of genres; and to suggest how the themes explored in those works reflect larger currents within contemporary American society and culture. The program will explore the diversity of the American literary landscape, examining how major contemporary writers, schools and movements reflect the traditions of the American literary canon. At the same time, the program will expose participants to writers who represent a departure from that tradition, and who are establishing new directions for American literature.

C. The Institute on Journalism and Media will provide a multinational group of 18 journalism faculty and other related specialists with a deeper understanding of the role of journalism and the media in U.S. society. It
will examine major topics in journalism, including the concept of a free press, First Amendment rights, and the media's relationship to the public interest. The legal and ethical questions inherent in journalistic endeavors will be incorporated into every aspect of the institute. The institute will cover strategies for teaching students of journalism the basics of the tradecraft: researching, reporting, writing, and editing. The program will also highlight technology's impact on journalism, addressing the influence of the internet, the globalization of the news media, the growth of satellite television and radio networks, and other advances in media that are transforming the profession.

D. The Institute on Religious Pluralism in the United States will provide a multinational group of up to 18 foreign university faculty and practitioners with a deeper understanding of U.S. society and culture, past and present, through an examination of religious pluralism in the United States and its intersection with American democracy. Employing a multi-disciplinary approach and drawing on fields such as history, political science,
sociology, anthropology, law and others, the program will explore both the historical and contemporary relationship between church and state in the United States. Participants will examine the following aspects of
religious pluralism in the United States: the ways in which religious thought and practice have influenced, and been influenced by, the development of American-style democracy; the intersections of religion and politics in the United States in such areas as elections, public policy, and foreign policy; and the sociology and demography of religion in the United States today, including a survey of the diversity of contemporary religious beliefs and its impact on American politics.

E. The Institute on U.S. Culture and Society will provide a multinational group of 18 experienced and highly-motivated foreign university faculty and other specialists with a deeper understanding of U.S. society, culture,
values, and institutions. The Institute will examine the ethnic, racial, economic, political, and religious contexts in which various cultures have manifested themselves in U.S. society, and the ways in which these cultures have influenced both social movements and historical epochs throughout U.S. history. The program will draw from a diverse disciplinary base, and will itself provide a model of how a foreign university might approach the study of U.S. culture and society.

F. The Institute on U.S. Foreign Policy will provide a multinational group of 18 foreign university faculty and scholars with a deeper understanding of how U.S. foreign policy is formulated and implemented. The Institute will focus on United States Foreign Policy making through an exploration of domestic politics and players with emphasis on how each entity shapes U.S. perspectives and action on international issues. The four-week academic residency program will be complemented by two weeks of study tours of diverse loci of foreign policy-making: including Chicago and Washington, DC. The Institute program will also include day trips to Orlando, Tampa, Tallahassee, and historic St. Augustine.

2) CANDIDATE DESCRIPTION AND QUALIFICATIONS:

A. Candidates should be mid-career, typically between the ages of 30-50, highly-motivated and experienced professionals generally from institutions of higher education or research focused organizations (non-profits, think tanks, etc.). While the educational level of participants will likely vary, most should have graduate degrees and have substantial knowledge of the thematic area of the institute.

B. The ideal candidate will also be an experienced professional with little or no prior experience in the United States, whose home institution is seeking to introduce aspects of U.S. studies into its curricula, to develop
new courses in the subject of the institute, to enhance and update existing courses on the United States, or to offer specialized seminars/workshops for professionals in U.S. studies areas related to the program theme. In this respect, while the nominee's scholarly and professional credentials are an important consideration, an equally important factor is how participation in the institute will enhance mutual understanding course offerings in U.S. studies at the nominee's home institution.

C. Candidates should be willing and able to fully take part in an intensive post-graduate level academic program and study tour.

3) Program Funding: The Department of State will cover all participant costs, including: program administration; travel and ground transportation in the United States; and book, cultural, housing, subsistence, mailing, and incidental allowances for selected participants.

Contact Details

Dorothy Ngalombi
Cultural Affairs Specialist
Public Affairs Section
U.S. Mission Uganda
Tel: 256-414-259791/5 ext. 6313; 256-414-306313

http://kampala.usembassy.gov/ <http://kampala.usembassy.gov/>
http://www.america.gov/ <http://www.america.gov/>

<http://www.facebook.com/pages/US-Mission-Uganda/121384077911109?v=app_49497
52878> <http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_mission_uganda>
<http://www.youtube.com/user/USMissionUganda>
<http://twitter.com/usmissionuganda> <http://kampala.usembassy.gov/>

The Public Affairs Section is soliciting candidate nominations/applications for six competitive Summer 2012 Study of the U.S. Institutes for university faculty and other related scholars. In-country deadline for nominations and applications is November 30, 2011. Nominees and interested applicants should email their curriculum vitae to : Dorothy Ngalombi, Cultural Affairs Specialist, U.S. Mission Uganda; email: NgalombiDN@state.gov by the deadline. Please share widely with your colleagues.

1) INSTITUTE DESCRIPTION: Study of the United States Institutes for Scholars are intensive post-graduate level academic programs with integrated study tours whose purpose is to provide foreign university faculty and other scholars the opportunity to deepen their understanding of U.S. society, culture, and institutions. The ultimate goal is to strengthen curricula and to improve the quality of teaching about the United States in academic institutions abroad.

The institutes will take place at various colleges and universities throughout the United States over the course of six weeks beginning in June 2012. Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the website to obtain general information about the Institutes. The website address is:
http://exchanges.state.gov/academicexchanges/scholars.html.

A. The Institute on American Politics and Political Thought will provide a multinational group of 18 foreign university faculty with a deeper understanding of U.S. political institutions and major currents in American
political thought. The institute will offer an overview of political thought during the founding period (constitutional foundations), and the development and current functioning of the American presidency, Congress, and the federal judiciary. The examination of political institutions will include the electoral system, political parties and interest groups, the civil service system, media and think tanks, and the welfare/regulatory state. The institute will address modern political and cultural issues in the United States (including but not limited to civil rights, women's rights, immigration, etc.) and the significance of public discourse in the formulation of public policy.

B. The Institute on Contemporary American Literature will provide a multinational group of up to 18 foreign university faculty and scholars with a deeper understanding of U.S. society and culture, past and present,
through an examination of contemporary American literature. Its purpose is twofold: to explore contemporary American writers and writing in a variety of genres; and to suggest how the themes explored in those works reflect larger currents within contemporary American society and culture. The program will explore the diversity of the American literary landscape, examining how major contemporary writers, schools and movements reflect the traditions of the American literary canon. At the same time, the program will expose participants to writers who represent a departure from that tradition, and who are establishing new directions for American literature.

C. The Institute on Journalism and Media will provide a multinational group of 18 journalism faculty and other related specialists with a deeper understanding of the role of journalism and the media in U.S. society. It
will examine major topics in journalism, including the concept of a free press, First Amendment rights, and the media's relationship to the public interest. The legal and ethical questions inherent in journalistic endeavors will be incorporated into every aspect of the institute. The institute will cover strategies for teaching students of journalism the basics of the tradecraft: researching, reporting, writing, and editing. The program will also highlight technology's impact on journalism, addressing the influence of the internet, the globalization of the news media, the growth of satellite television and radio networks, and other advances in media that are transforming the profession.

D. The Institute on Religious Pluralism in the United States will provide a multinational group of up to 18 foreign university faculty and practitioners with a deeper understanding of U.S. society and culture, past and present, through an examination of religious pluralism in the United States and its intersection with American democracy. Employing a multi-disciplinary approach and drawing on fields such as history, political science,
sociology, anthropology, law and others, the program will explore both the historical and contemporary relationship between church and state in the United States. Participants will examine the following aspects of
religious pluralism in the United States: the ways in which religious thought and practice have influenced, and been influenced by, the development of American-style democracy; the intersections of religion and politics in the United States in such areas as elections, public policy, and foreign policy; and the sociology and demography of religion in the United States today, including a survey of the diversity of contemporary religious beliefs and its impact on American politics.

E. The Institute on U.S. Culture and Society will provide a multinational group of 18 experienced and highly-motivated foreign university faculty and other specialists with a deeper understanding of U.S. society, culture,
values, and institutions. The Institute will examine the ethnic, racial, economic, political, and religious contexts in which various cultures have manifested themselves in U.S. society, and the ways in which these cultures have influenced both social movements and historical epochs throughout U.S. history. The program will draw from a diverse disciplinary base, and will itself provide a model of how a foreign university might approach the study of U.S. culture and society.

F. The Institute on U.S. Foreign Policy will provide a multinational group of 18 foreign university faculty and scholars with a deeper understanding of how U.S. foreign policy is formulated and implemented. The Institute will focus on United States Foreign Policy making through an exploration of domestic politics and players with emphasis on how each entity shapes U.S. perspectives and action on international issues. The four-week academic residency program will be complemented by two weeks of study tours of diverse loci of foreign policy-making: including Chicago and Washington, DC. The Institute program will also include day trips to Orlando, Tampa, Tallahassee, and historic St. Augustine.

2) CANDIDATE DESCRIPTION AND QUALIFICATIONS:

A. Candidates should be mid-career, typically between the ages of 30-50, highly-motivated and experienced professionals generally from institutions of higher education or research focused organizations (non-profits, think tanks, etc.). While the educational level of participants will likely vary, most should have graduate degrees and have substantial knowledge of the thematic area of the institute.

B. The ideal candidate will also be an experienced professional with little or no prior experience in the United States, whose home institution is seeking to introduce aspects of U.S. studies into its curricula, to develop
new courses in the subject of the institute, to enhance and update existing courses on the United States, or to offer specialized seminars/workshops for professionals in U.S. studies areas related to the program theme. In this respect, while the nominee's scholarly and professional credentials are an important consideration, an equally important factor is how participation in the institute will enhance mutual understanding course offerings in U.S. studies at the nominee's home institution.

C. Candidates should be willing and able to fully take part in an intensive post-graduate level academic program and study tour.

3) Program Funding: The Department of State will cover all participant costs, including: program administration; travel and ground transportation in the United States; and book, cultural, housing, subsistence, mailing, and incidental allowances for selected participants.

Contact Details

Dorothy Ngalombi
Cultural Affairs Specialist
Public Affairs Section
U.S. Mission Uganda
Tel: 256-414-259791/5 ext. 6313; 256-414-306313

http://kampala.usembassy.gov/ <http://kampala.usembassy.gov/>
http://www.america.gov/ <http://www.america.gov/>

<http://www.facebook.com/pages/US-Mission-Uganda/121384077911109?v=app_49497
52878> <http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_mission_uganda>
<http://www.youtube.com/user/USMissionUganda>
<http://twitter.com/usmissionuganda> <http://kampala.usembassy.gov/>

Denis Wamala

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Stakeholders of Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University Convene to Review Progress and Strengthen Collaboration

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1 day ago

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July 10, 2026

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Mr. Aggrey Kibenge, Prof. Sarah Ssali, Ms. Maria Mugerwa, pose in a photo with the Program Directors of the Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere. Makerere University convened the 2nd Partnership Development Breakfast for Mastercard Foundation-supported initiatives, 9th July 2026, Mestil Hotel Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.

By Damali Mukhaye

On 9th July 2026, the Mastercard Foundation-supported initiatives at Makerere University convened the 2nd Partnership Development Breakfast meeting at Mestil hotel in Kampala, to review progress, share experiences, and explore opportunities to strengthen collaboration and advance education, research, innovation, and youth empowerment.

The partnership development meeting brought together Makerere University leadership, government officials, Mastercard Foundation representatives, development partners, private sector actors, and other key stakeholders to reflect on ongoing interventions and identify areas for deeper collaboration.

The engagement highlighted the progress and impact of key Mastercard Foundation initiatives at Makerere University, including the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme, the Africa Climate Collaborative (ACC), and the e-learning initiative, which are promoting increased access to education, research development, climate resilience, skills enhancement, and preparing young people for future opportunities.

Delivering the opening remarks, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Makerere University, Prof. Sarah Ssali, stated that stakeholder engagement was vital in building stronger links between the University, students, academic staff, employers, and other parties involved in shaping graduates’ futures.

Prof. Sarah Ssali, addressing the Stakeholders. Makerere University convened the 2nd Partnership Development Breakfast for Mastercard Foundation-supported initiatives, 9th July 2026, Mestil Hotel Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali, addressing the Stakeholders.

“You have been chosen for a purpose because it was not just about engaging with the students and stakeholders, but also with those involved in developing knowledge products and those who train and mentor our students,” Prof. Ssali said.

She emphasised the significance of partnerships in widening access to higher education, especially for students from marginalised backgrounds, highlighting that through scholarship programmes and inclusive education initiatives, Makerere University continues to attract and support talented students who might otherwise face obstacles to university access.

Prof. Ssali acknowledged the contribution of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program alongside other university initiatives, including the Africa Climate Collaborative, fee waiver schemes, and Council scholarships, which offer opportunities for students—especially those from vulnerable communities and talented female learners.

“Your investment in these young people is not charity, but a shared national development priority,” she said.

She explained that Makerere University’s partnership with the Mastercard Foundation aligns with the University’s strategic aim to enhance human capital development, research, and innovation in support of national development priorities under Uganda Vision 2040 and the Fourth National Development Plan.

Mr. Aggrey Kibenge, Prof. Sarah Ssali and other offcials pose in a group photo with other stakeholders. Makerere University convened the 2nd Partnership Development Breakfast for Mastercard Foundation-supported initiatives, 9th July 2026, Mestil Hotel Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Aggrey Kibenge, Prof. Sarah Ssali and other offcials pose in a group photo with other stakeholders.

Prof. Ssali noted that the University has, over the years, transformed into a research-focused institution, with partnerships enabling it to address critical societal challenges.

She urged stakeholders to continue supporting young people through mentorship and guidance as they prepare for employment and entrepreneurship.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Mr Aggrey David Kibenge, praised the collaboration between Makerere University, the Mastercard Foundation, and other stakeholders, emphasising that teamwork is vital in tackling Uganda’s youth unemployment problem.

He observed that Uganda’s youthful population presents both an opportunity and a responsibility, with more than 70 per cent of the population under 30 years.

Mr Kibenge said the government alone cannot address youth unemployment and welcomed partnerships that support young people with relevant skills, employment pathways, and opportunities for entrepreneurship.

Mr. Aggrey Kibenge, addressing the Stakeholders. Makerere University convened the 2nd Partnership Development Breakfast for Mastercard Foundation-supported initiatives, 9th July 2026, Mestil Hotel Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Aggrey Kibenge, addressing the Stakeholders.

He highlighted government interventions, including the National Apprenticeship and Graduate Volunteer Programme Management Information System (NAGVPMIS), which links graduates with potential employers via a digital platform.

The platform enables young people to upload their qualifications and skills, while employers can find suitable candidates based on available opportunities.

“By digitising the matching and recruitment process, we are making the system more transparent, efficient, and merit-based,” Kibenge said.

The Permanent Secretary also emphasised the need for education institutions, employers, and the government to work together to address the skills gap affecting many graduates entering the labour market.

Some of the Stakeholders following the proceedings during the event. Makerere University convened the 2nd Partnership Development Breakfast for Mastercard Foundation-supported initiatives, 9th July 2026, Mestil Hotel Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the Stakeholders following the proceedings during the event.

He noted that stronger partnerships with initiatives such as those supported by the Mastercard Foundation will help young people acquire skills that respond to changing labour market needs.

He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to collaborating with the Mastercard Foundation and other partners to create more opportunities for young people to access dignified work.

Mastercard Foundation Highlights Young Africa Works Progress

Representing the Mastercard Foundation, Ms Maria Mugerwa, the Finance Lead at the Foundation, provided an update on the Young Africa Works Strategy, which seeks to enable 30 million young people, 70 per cent of them women, across Africa to access dignified and fulfilling work by 2030.

She explained that, in Uganda, the strategy aims to reach 4.3 million young people aged 18 to 35 through initiatives centred on entrepreneurship, enterprise development, education, and skills enhancement.

The strategy supports key areas, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), agriculture, the digital economy, creative industries, and inclusive opportunities for young people.

Ms. Maria Mugerwa, the representative of the Mastercard Foundation addressing the Stakeholders. Makerere University convened the 2nd Partnership Development Breakfast for Mastercard Foundation-supported initiatives, 9th July 2026, Mestil Hotel Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Maria Mugerwa, the representative of the Mastercard Foundation addressing the Stakeholders.

Ms. Mugerwa noted that the Foundation’s approach is built on partnerships that bring together universities, government, private-sector actors, and communities to create pathways for young people to transition from education to employment.

“Closing this gap will require stronger collaboration among all stakeholders, including linking universities and graduates to opportunities created under the Young Africa Works Strategy.” She said.

She emphasised that ongoing collaboration will be essential in widening access to employment opportunities, finance, markets, and entrepreneurship support for young people.

Highlights of Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University continues to transform the lives of academically talented but economically constrained young Africans by expanding access to quality university education and nurturing the next generation of transformative leaders.

In a presentation by Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director, the initiative was emphasised as a comprehensive support model that extends beyond scholarships to offer academic assistance, leadership growth, psychosocial well-being, community involvement, and pathways to dignified employment, entrepreneurship, and further education.

Prof. Namaalwa, sharing highlights about the Scholars Program with the Stakeholders. Makerere University convened the 2nd Partnership Development Breakfast for Mastercard Foundation-supported initiatives, 9th July 2026, Mestil Hotel Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Namaalwa, sharing highlights about the Scholars Program with the Stakeholders.

The Program has supported 971 Scholars and alumni, with many transitioning into formal employment, entrepreneurship, and advanced studies.

Guided by the values of listening, humility, kindness and respect, co-creation, and impact, the program promotes inclusion, belonging, and agency among young people.

Africa Climate Collaborative at Makerere University

The Program Director of the Africa Climate Collaborative, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, said that the programme, which kicked off in 2025, is a transformative eight-year university-wide initiative designed to empower young people and strengthen Africa’s capacity to develop inclusive, equitable, and innovative responses to climate change.

Implemented in collaboration with global and regional partners, including the University of Cambridge, the University of Cape Town, the University of Ghana, and the Association of African Universities, the Collaborative focuses on four interconnected pillars: workforce development, entrepreneurship, research and innovation, and networks, policy, and learning.

Prof. Nabanoga sharing highlights about ACC with the Stakeholders. Makerere University convened the 2nd Partnership Development Breakfast for Mastercard Foundation-supported initiatives, 9th July 2026, Mestil Hotel Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nabanoga sharing highlights about ACC with the Stakeholders.

Through its workforce development pillar, ACC will expand access to quality education by providing comprehensive scholarships to 250 Master’s students and 40 PhD students, while strengthening research capacity through academic mentorship and support.

The entrepreneurship pillar will equip 500 youth not in education, employment, or training with green entrepreneurship skills, provide incubation support, and promote youth-led green innovations.

The Collaborative will also establish a Climate Resilience Support Centre to drive interdisciplinary research and innovation while fostering partnerships, policy dialogues, and knowledge exchange to support climate-resilient communities.

e-Learning Initiative Phase II

In a presentation by Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, Director of the Institute of Open, Distance and eLearning (IODeL) at Makerere University, the progress and future direction of the Mastercard Foundation e-Learning Initiative Phase II were highlighted.

Building on the successful completion of Phase I in December 2024, Makerere University secured participation in the second phase, which aims to accelerate digital transformation and strengthen inclusive, learner-centred, and scalable e-learning systems across the institution.

Prof. Muyinda sharing highlights about the E-learing Initiative. Makerere University convened the 2nd Partnership Development Breakfast for Mastercard Foundation-supported initiatives, 9th July 2026, Mestil Hotel Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Muyinda sharing highlights about the E-learing Initiative.

The initiative seeks to enhance access to quality digital education by developing 10 fully online academic programmes and 10 micro-credentials by 2030. It will also establish integrated digital learner support services, strengthen digital infrastructure, and promote digitally empowered leadership and governance within the University.

A key component of the initiative is building institutional capacity in learning design and technology.

Since January 2026, 35 Makerere University staff members have been undertaking graduate-level training at Arizona State University, with 13 pursuing Master’s programmes and 22 enrolled for graduate certificates in Learning Design and Technology.

Through strategic partnerships and innovation, the initiative will position Makerere University as a leader in digital education, expand opportunities for inclusive learning, and strengthen resilience in higher education.

The second stakeholder engagement session concluded with several stakeholders, including DFCU Bank, the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), and Finn Church Aid, among others, committing to building stronger pathways that will enable students and graduates to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s social and economic transformation.

Damali Mukhaye is the Communication, Public Relations, and Branding Officer for Africa Climate Collaborative at Makerere University.

Mak Editor

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Benchmarking Best Practices In Quality Assurance: Official Visit To The University Of Cape Town

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2 days ago

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July 10, 2026

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Left to Right: Mr. Bataamye Herbert-College Registrar, Dr. Irene Rebecca Namatende, Denise-UCT, Assoc. Prof. Annet Kutesa-Dentistry and Dr. Kalidi Rajab-Pharmacy. Makerere University College of Health Sciences (CHS) Quality Assurance, Gender Mainstreaming and ICT Committee benchmarking visit to the University of Cape Town (UCT), South Africa from 19th to 26th April, 2026.

By Dr. Irene Rebecca Namatende

1.0 BACKGROUND 

A team of four members of staff from the College of Health Sciences (CHS), Makerere University undertook an official benchmarking visit to the University of Cape Town (UCT) from 19th to 26th April, 2026. The four are members of the Quality Assurance, Gender Mainstreaming and ICT Committee-CHS. The delegation comprised two academic and two administrative staff led by the Dean, School of Dentistry, Prof. Annet Kutesa. Other members included;

  1. Dr. Irene Rebecca Namatende – Quality Assurance Officer-CHS
  2. Dr. Kalidi Rajab – Lecturer in the Department of Pharmacy
  3. Mr. Bataamye Herbert – CHS Registrar.

The primary purpose of the visit was to benchmark Quality Assurance (QA) systems in teaching, learning, and governance; strengthen institutional collaboration; and explore opportunities for academic exchange and joint initiatives between Makerere University and the University of Cape Town.

Right to Left: Dr. Kalidi Rajabu, Deputy Dean UCT, Assoc. Prof. Annet Kutesa, Denise-UCT, Mr. Bataamye Herbert and Dr. Irene Rebecca Namatende. Makerere University College of Health Sciences (CHS) Quality Assurance, Gender Mainstreaming and ICT Committee benchmarking visit to the University of Cape Town (UCT), South Africa from 19th to 26th April, 2026.
Right to Left: Dr. Kalidi Rajabu, Deputy Dean UCT, Assoc. Prof. Annet Kutesa, Denise-UCT, Mr. Bataamye Herbert and Dr. Irene Rebecca Namatende.

1.1    Purpose of the Visit to UCT was

  1. To gain an understanding of institutional QA frameworks at UCT across teaching, research and governance, and identify adaptable best practices for Makerere University.
  2. To explore effective strategies used by UCT to design, monitor, and continuously improve academic programmes, ensuring relevance, consistency, and excellence.
  3. To learn from UCT’s experiences and approaches to national and international accreditation processes, including preparation, documentation, and stakeholder engagement.
  4. To examine mechanisms for fostering staff engagement, ownership, and accountability in QA and continuous improvement processes.

2.0 Key Areas Covered During the Visit

2.1 Quality Assurance Systems

The visit explored the institutional quality assurance framework at the University of Cape Town, focusing on its structured approach to academic quality management. Emphasis was placed on clearly defined QA units, robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and the integration of quality assurance processes into routine academic delivery and programme oversight. Discussions also highlighted systematic approaches to curriculum design and periodic review, ensuring alignment with accreditation standards and evolving educational needs.

The team at the UCT Faculty of Health Sciences. Makerere University College of Health Sciences (CHS) Quality Assurance, Gender Mainstreaming and ICT Committee benchmarking visit to the University of Cape Town (UCT), South Africa from 19th to 26th April, 2026.
The team at the UCT Faculty of Health Sciences.

We found that QA frameworks at UCT cut across teaching, research and governance. Here below are some of the key findings;

  • All programmes must be approved by the Council of Higher Education, Quality Regulation Framework.
  • All programmes must be accessible to the Council of Higher Education (CHE).
  • The Academic Programmes at UCT are reviewed after every 5 years.
  • Every programme goes through detailed evaluation before approval.
  • Support Staff are also interviewed before appointment into university service.
  • Each programme must be accounted for by UCT to the Councils
  • Comprehensive information for each programme is required by the Councils before approval is given.
  • It is important to have integrity of qualifications and qualification of programmes.
  • After O. Level the students sit for a National Benchmark Test.

2.2 Governance and Leadership

The visit provided insights into transparent and participatory governance structures that support effective decision-making. There is a strong emphasis on staff engagement, accountability, and leadership at different institutional levels. A culture of continuous improvement is embedded within governance systems, supported by regular review and feedback mechanisms.

2.3 Teaching and Learning

The discussions further highlighted the institution’s diverse student assessment methods and structured feedback systems, alongside the effective integration of digital technologies to enhance teaching, learning, and student engagement.

Here below are the key outcomes;

  • Every Course unit exam should be moderated by an External Moderator.
  • The external moderator is appointed at the beginning of the year.
  • The external moderator makes recommendations.
  • These recommendations are in form of policies.
  • Ensure overall examination preparedness for all students
  • The template for external moderation is revised regularly.
  • The moderators also assess if, the exams are fair or not.

Conclusion:

The team in one of the Computer Labs at UCT. Makerere University College of Health Sciences (CHS) Quality Assurance, Gender Mainstreaming and ICT Committee benchmarking visit to the University of Cape Town (UCT), South Africa from 19th to 26th April, 2026.
The team in one of the Computer Labs at UCT.

Key Takeaways

  • The promotion ladder at UCT is more on the Competences, individual contributions on supervision, publications, community service and experience.
  • QA is embedded in every unit and department.

We thank the Principal, College of Health Sciences and CMT for the support that facilitated this benchmarking visit.

Mak Editor

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Re-Advertisement for Positions of Principal and Deputy Principal at Makerere University

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2 days ago

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July 10, 2026

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Front View of the reconstructed Main Building, Makerere University. Date Taken 8th November 2024. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University, Uganda’s premier institution of higher learning and one of Africa’s leading research universities, invites applications from suitably qualified and distinguished individuals for the positions of Principal and Deputy Principal in the Colleges listed below. The University seeks visionary leaders with demonstrated academic excellence, strategic leadership, and a commitment to institutional transformation. This advertisement is for the positions of:

  1. Principal and Deputy Principal, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES)
  2. Principal and Deputy Principal, College of Education and External Studies (CEES)
  3. Principal and Deputy Principal, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS)
  4. Principal and Deputy Principal, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB)
  5. Principal, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS)
  6. Deputy Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS).

Mode of application

Interested individuals for the positions of Principal and Deputy Principal should submit the following documents sealed in an envelope addressed to the University Secretary;

  1. A signed letter of application;
  2. Certified copies of academic certificates and transcripts;
  3. The curriculum vitae of the candidate;
  4. Three (3) letters of recommendation;
  5. Copies of the required minimum number of publications;
  6. Copies of letters of appointment to leadership positions at the level of Head of Department and/or its equivalent or higher in a recognised institution comparable to that of Makerere University;
  7. A copy of the applicant’s national ID or passport; and
  8. A copy of the last letter of clearance from the Inspectorate of Government or other equivalent national body.

The deadline for applications is 17th July 2026 at 5:00 p.m. East African Time.

Applications should be hand-delivered to:

The University Secretary
Makerere University
Main Administration Building,
Level 2, University Secretary’s Office

Or submitted via email at search.principal@mak.ac.ug

Makerere is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from suitably qualified individuals regardless of gender, disability, or other legally protected status. The University is committed to promoting diversity, inclusion and excellence in all its activities.

THOSE WHO HAD APPLIED EARLIER NEED NOT RE-APPLY

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