Connect with us

General

Funding Calls, Conference and Scholarship Opportunities 2012

Published

on

Grants Writing and Management Training Workshop
The Association of Research Administrators in Africa (ARAA) will hold its 3rd Annual Meeting and Training Workshop in Grants Writing and Management from February 3rd ­ 4th, 2012 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The Workshop is hosted by Muhimbili University of Health & Allied Sciences and will take place at Kunduchi Beach Hotel.

Grants Writing and Management Training Workshop
The Association of Research Administrators in Africa (ARAA) will hold its 3rd Annual Meeting and Training Workshop in Grants Writing and Management from February 3rd ­ 4th, 2012 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The Workshop is hosted by Muhimbili University of Health & Allied Sciences and will take place at Kunduchi Beach Hotel.

ARAA is also proud to announce a Pre-Workshop Training in Human Subjects Protections (HSP) to be conducted by Senior Investigators from US Partner Institutions at the same venue a day before the ARAA Training Workshop (Thursday 1st, January, 2012). Certificates in HSP will be awarded at the end of this 1 Day Training Workshop.

  • Registration for the ARAA Workshop can be done at http://araafrica.org/registration/
  • Registration for the Human Subjects Protections (HSP) Workshop can confirm their participation with dathuman@muhas.ac.tz, dbukini@yahoo.com, or mmandabanda@yahoo.com

Registration costs per each Workshop day for each participant is $40. This will cover conference materials, Lunch break and day time tea breaks.

For further details, contact

Senior Research Administrator
Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences,
P.O.Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Tel. +255 22 2152489 (office)
+255 787 670349 (mobile)

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Funding for Uganda

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Provision of Comprehensive HIV/AIDS Care, Treatment and Prevention Services in indigenous Health facilities in the Republic of Uganda under the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) Grant
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=136573

Fogarty HIV Research Training Program for Low- and Middle-Income Country Institutions (D43)

The purpose of this FOA is to encourage applications for research training programs to strengthen the HIV research capacity at low- and middle-income country (LMIC) institutions. Each application should propose a training program that will build or strengthen research capacity in an applicant-defined HIV-related scientific topic at an identified LMIC institution.

http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAR-12-068.html
<http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAR-12-068.html >

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Funding

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Operations Research (Implementation Science) for Strengthening Program Implementation through the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) Grant
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=136553

Limited Competition: Planning Grant for Fogarty HIV Research Training Program for Low- and Middle-Income Country Institutions (D71) John E. Fogarty International Center

The purpose of this FOA is to encourage institutions in low-and middle-income countries (LMIC) to submit an application for a planning grant under the Fogarty HIV Research Training Program. This program supports
research training that will strengthen the HIV research capacity of institutions in low-and middle-income countries (LMIC).

The applicant institution must have a strong and high quality HIV research program in the scientific topic proposed under this FOA and must have the requisite faculty and facilities on site to conduct the future research training program.

http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAR-12-070.html

The Medical Education Partnership Initiative Linked Awards (MEPI) (R25)

This NIH Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA), supported by funds from the participating NIH Institutes and Centers (ICs), invites applications from foreign Institutions in Sub-Saharan African countries who are a part of the Medical Education Partnership Initiative Network of institutions to develop research capacity and research education opportunities in priority health areas related to and/or beyond HIV/AIDS. These opportunities are intended to strengthen medical education systems in the countries in which they exist,
and build clinical and research capacity in priority health areas related to and/or beyond HIV/AIDS.

http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-TW-11-004.html

Training Programs for Critical HIV Research Infrastructure for Low- and Middle-Income Country Institutions (G11)

The overall goal of the Fogarty HIV Research Training Program is to strengthen the human capacity to contribute to the ability of institutions in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) to conduct HIV-related research on the evolving HIV-related epidemics in their country and to compete independently for research funding. Training is expected to strengthen the HIV research capacity of the specified LMIC institution.

http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAR-12-069.html

Global Research Initiative Program for New Foreign Investigators (GRIP)

This proposes to conduct behavioral and social sciences research relevant to global health and is intended to promote productive development of foreign investigators from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAR-10-280.html

Award for Women¹s Creativity in Rural Life 2012

Nominations are open for the 2012 WWSF Women's World Summit Foundation Prize honoring women and women's groups around the world exhibiting exceptional creativity, courage and commitment for the improvement of the quality of life in rural communities. Nominees should be women and women¹s groups
currently active in rural life whose efforts have not yet been acknowledged by other awards.

http://www.woman.ch/index.php?page=nomination-guidelines&hl=en_US

Applications for the 2012 Land for Life Award

UNCCD (United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification) is currently inviting applications for 2012 Land for Life Award with the aim of rewarding and recognizing the leadership for sustainable land management

http://www.unccd.int/land4life/menu.php

The Shelters for All Competition

The Shelters for All Competition is organized for developing solutions to the urban housing crisis existing in the developing world. It seeks innovative designs for housing in poor and densely populated urban areas.

http://sheltersforall.org/faq.php

Dell Social Innovation Challenge Competition

Beginning January 3, 2012 Dell Corporation invites all undergrad or graduate students in any field of study, from any country, to enter the Social Innovation Challenge competition.

Purpose of the Challenge
The Dell Social Innovation Challenge identifies and supports promising young social innovators who dedicate themselves to solving the world¹s most pressing problems with their transformative ideas. We provide university students interested in social entrepreneurship with world-class teaching and training as well as with start-up capital and access to a network of mentors and advisors.

http://dellchallenge.org/

EDCTP Strategic Primer Grants

Strategic Primer grants provide funding for research groups in sub-Saharan Africa and Europe to conduct innovative, ambitious studies that will generate results to inform future clinical trials; sustain and strengthen
the capacity built up under EDCTP I; and increase networking of African and European Member States¹ research programmes.

http://www.edctp.org/Current-Call.410+M5a50c93a471.0.html

Applications invited from African Scholars for the Guest Researcher at Nordic Africa Institute

The Nordic Africa Institute is seeking applications for the Guest Researchers¹ Scholarship Program from scholars in Africa that are engaged in research on the African continent. Female researchers are especially
encouraged to apply

Eligibility
Nordic Institute¹s Guest Researchers¹ Scholarship Program targets scholars in Africa that are engaged in research on/about the African continent and with a proven track record of extensive post-graduate research experience. The institute encourages women to apply for these scholarships.

http://www.nai.uu.se/scholarships/african/

The FRIDA Young Feminist Fund call for applications open

The Young Feminist Fund mobilizes resources, funds and strengthens the participation and leadership of young feminist activists globally. The goal of The Young Feminist Fund (FRIDA) is to provide accessible, strategic and responsive funding for young feminist-led initiatives, and to strengthen the capacity of young feminist organizations to both leverage their own resources and increase their social change impact. FRIDA invites applications from groups led by young women and transgender youth under 30 years of age

http://youngfeministfund.org/2011/12/grants-programapply-for-a-grant/

Royal Society Pfizer Award

This call is for nominations for the Royal Society Pfizer Award, targeting young researchers based in Africa working in the life sciences. Last year, the 2011 Royal Society Pfizer Award was given to Dr Julie Makani for her outstanding research into using anaemia in sickle cell disease as a model for translating genetic research into health benefits. The call for nominations for the 2012 Royal Society Pfizer Award is now open.

For more information about the award and the nomination process please visit royalsociety.org/pfizer-award
<http://newsletters.royalsociety.org/c/13FrKKontqhsuOps5GJo4iLz>

The call for nominations will close on 6 February 2012.

WORKSHOPS, SCHOLARSHIPS AND FELLOWSHIPS

Abstracts and Scholarship Calls for the XIX International AIDS Conference

The AIDS 2012 will bring together leading scientists, public health experts, policy-makers and the HIV-affected community to translate recent momentous scientific advances into action that will address means to end the epidemic, within the current context of significant global economic challenges. The
Conference will take place in the United States.

Full and partial scholarships available to people from resource-limited settings and communities, researchers, young people, community activists and civil society representatives

Registration for the XIX International AIDS Conference is now open. All registrations for AIDS 2012 must be submitted through the online registration form.

http://www.aids2012.org/Default.aspx?pageId=305

Denis Wamala

Continue Reading

Education

Makerere University signs Memorandum of Understanding with International Rescue Committee to Advance Research, Innovation and Partnerships

Published

on

Prof. Anthony Mugagga (Left), Principal of MakCEES exchanging the MoU with Mr. Elijah Okuyo, Country Director, IRC

Makerere University has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Rescue Committee to formalize undertakings in research, innovation & partnerships.

Signed in September 2025 by the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the Country Director, International Rescue Committee,  Mr. Elijah Okeyo, the MoU provides a framework to implement research intensive programmes, promote innovative teaching and learning, internationalization, and contribute to societal transformation.

According to Mr. Okeyo, the MoU re-affirms Makerere University as the academic partner of the International Rescue Committee (IRC). “This MoU formalizes IRC’s working relationship with Makerere University. This framework empowers both institutions to tap into opportunities together. We believe in equal partnership. Makerere University commits to being our partner in research to contribute to evidence based humanitarian undertakings,” he said.

Under this collaboration, Makerere University and IRC will work on developing child-centered learning resources, innovative curricula, and policy-relevant research to enhance the quality of education in crisis-affected regions.

At Makerere University, the MoU brings on board, the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Research Centre.

To concretize the MoU, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga convened a partnership meeting on Friday 12th September 2025  involving a delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Dr. David Kabugo, the Deputy Director of Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER),  and Ms. Ritah Namisango, the Principal Communication Officer.

Mak CEES and IRC partnership meeting in progress

The delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) consisted of the following: Mr. Elijah Okeyo-Country Director, Mr. Vincent Wanyama-Senior Program Development and Quality Coordinator,  Mr. Richard Omasete-Policy and Advocacy PlayMatters, and Ms. Janet Nambuya-Grants and Partnerships Coordinator.

The MoU focuses on the following areas of interest: Early Childhood Development, joint research and capacity building in education, the plight of refugees and the host communities, humanitarian aid, as well as, evidence based research to inform the education policy.

In line with its mandate, IRC brings onboard, its unmatched expertise in helping children in crisis-affected areas. The MoU therefore positions both institutions to undertake a leading role in the protection of children and families through evidence based research, access to education, and humanitarian undertakings.

Dr. Kabugo, the Deputy Director MITER, noted that the MoU opens new opportunities for joint efforts in research, training, and policy. He said: “We are committed to co-designing practitioner research, engaging in professional development, and generating evidence to guide the education policy in Uganda and beyond.” Dr. Kabugo explained that this partnership builds on years of cooperation between CEES and IRC, especially in child-centered methods such as play-based learning.

Prof. Mugagga described the MOU as a practical framework that connects Makerere University’s research with IRC’s field experiences. He stated that the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) conducts programmes focused on the future of the young people through training and empowering students/teachers. He articulated that the College significantly impacts on the education sector through delivery of quality academic programmes and research under the School of Education, School of  Distance and Lifelong Learning, and the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development.

“Our strongest synergy is education and early child-focused care,” Prof. Mugagga emphasized. He revealed that the collaboration presents CEES with a strong and reliable partner (IRC), which stands for protection and the well-being of children and families. “Through this MoU, both CEES and IRC, will significantly contribute to improving education for children, families, and communities impacted by conflict and crisis.”

Prof. Mugagga commended IRC for the earlier support and expertise extended to the College in the development of the early childhood centre, and working together to provide valuable input during the Ministry of Education and Sports’ consultative process that led to the Early Childhood development policy.

Reflecting on the increasing number of refugees enrolling for studies at Makerere University, Prof. Mugagga  said: “ IRC has come at the right time. The College will tap into the IRC expertise to teach our staff and learners components in refugee education. They will equip our students and teachers with knowledge and skills in refugee education. Some of our students will cooperate with IRC to undertake research in refugee settlement and host communities.”

[L-R] Dr. David Kabugo, Deputy Director (MITER), Mr. Vincent Wanyama (IRC), Prof. Anthony Mugagga (Principal, MakCEES), Mr. Elijah Okeyo( Country Director-IRC), Ms. Janet Nambuya (IRC), Mr. Richard Omasette (IRC) and Ms. Ritah Namisango, PCO (MakCEES)

Prof. Mugagga implored both MITER and IRC to undertake research and develop modules on refugee education, parenting, re-tooling street children, integration of a health component into the curriculum, and management of truamatised students/learners who come from areas affected by war, conflict and crisis.

On the issue of play materials, Prof. Mugagga stressed that already made play materials derial creativing. “Both CEES and IRC should work towards a context that empowers children and learners to ignite their creative potential by developing home-made play materials,” he submitted.

About IRC

Stating a brief profile history about IRC, Mr. Okeyo explained that IRC is a global non-profit organisation that provides humanitarian aid and assistance to people affected by conflict and disaster. IRC has been active in Uganda since 1998, originally assisting displaced populations in Northern Uganda and later expanding its efforts to refugee settlements and urban areas.. Currently, IRC operates more than 35 health facilities in refugee settlements and runs a variety of programs in health, education, protection, and economic recovery. IRC also undertakes projects focusing on early childhood development, prevention of gender-based violence, and protection of refugees and families.

Ritah Namisango
Ritah Namisango

Continue Reading

General

Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University encouraged to participate in philanthropy work

Published

on

Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala addressing the gathering on behalf of DVC F&A, Prof. Ireeta. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Carol Kasujja Adii and Bernard Buteera

Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University have been encouraged to embrace the spirit of philanthropy as a vital foundation for fostering stronger and more resilient communities. This inspiring call to action took place during the 2025 Community Open Day at the Freedom Square on Saturday, September 6, 2025, where hundreds of Mastercard Scholars, Scholar-alumni, and partners of the Scholars Program gathered to initiate a fundraising drive for the signature Annual Scholars Day of Service.

The Annual Scholars Day of Service stands as a hallmark event through which the Scholars give back to the community in impactful and sustainable ways. During a keynote address titled “How Philanthropy Shapes Resilient Communities,” Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration, emphasised that while local philanthropy is not a new concept in Uganda, a more intentional mobilisation of this giving back power is necessary to address broader social challenges.

“Communities that mobilise their own resources—financial, human, and material—are empowered to take ownership of their development. Ownership naturally leads to sustainability, ensuring that solutions emerge from local knowledge, context, and values rather than being imposed from the outside. This approach is essential for effectively tackling our social challenges,” Prof. Ireeta stated.

A cross-section of scholar-alumni, listening attentively during the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A cross-section of scholar-alumni, listening attentively during the event.

In his remarks delivered by Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Ireeta highlighted the importance of nurturing the inherent power of local giving. He urged the celebration of current local philanthropic efforts, which can be initiated at the individual, religious, and community levels.

“To foster a culture of giving, we need to create platforms that promote structured, transparent, and impactful contributions,” he argued. “It’s crucial to strengthen our generosity, particularly among the youth, and cultivate a society where giving is valued as a core aspect of leadership and citizenship.”

Prof. Ireeta further noted, “The future of our Communities’ strength lies not in distant promises but in our own hands and collective actions. By fostering local philanthropy, we can build a society that is not only fairer but also more resilient and united.

Mr. John Osuna, speaking on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, at the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. John Osuna, speaking on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, at the event.

In his welcoming remarks, Mr. John Osuna, Transition Lead for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, who spoke on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, expressed gratitude to the Scholars for their collaborative efforts in turning the idea of giving back into reality.

“Let us embody humility, kindness, and compassion through actionable philanthropy. By doing so, we can create lasting impacts, enhancing our reputation as a community that genuinely cares,” Mr. Osuna stated.

The Community Open Day was organised under the inspiring theme: “Nurturing Philanthropy for Resilient Communities,” paving the way for future initiatives that strengthen community bonds through collective generosity.

A cross-section of the alumni making their pledges towards the scholars give back project. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A cross-section of the alumni making their pledges towards the scholars give back project.

“We believe that through nurturing philanthropy for resilient communities, our communities shall be able to organise themselves to build resilience beyond what we shall give back,” Mr. Osuna explained.

The vibrant event saw Scholars and Scholar-alumni actively participating by bringing items for auction and buying tickets for the raffle draw as a means of mobilising resources for the construction of a ventilated pit latrine, renovation of two classroom blocks and providing tanks for harvesting clean water for Bwera Primary School in Kabale District.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Agnes Katumba, the Director of Katumba Estates, one of the long-standing partners of the Scholars Program at Makerere University, tasked the Scholars to embrace the heart of giving back without expecting something in return.

Ms. Agnes Katumba, the Director, Katumba Estates Ltd handing over part of her pledge towards the Scholars Giveback project. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Agnes Katumba, the Director, Katumba Estates Ltd handing over part of her pledge towards the Scholars Giveback project.

“I thank the Mastercard Foundation; they not only provide scholarships but also give back to the community. I have been able to grow because of them. For scholars, you do not have to wait to be wealthy to give back; every coin counts,” Mrs. Katumba said.

Katumba Estates Ltd contributed three million shillings to the Scholars Give Back project. Another long-standing partner, DFCU Bank, pledged over sh10 million towards the Scholars’ building project.

The Representative from DFCU making the pledge to support Scholars Giveback project on behalf of the Bank. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Representative from DFCU making the pledge to support Scholars Giveback project on behalf of the Bank.

In her presentation, Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar-alumna, urged current Scholars to contribute to their communities in various ways, including mentorship and guiding young people.

Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Scholar-alumna addressing fellow Scholars and alumni at the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Scholar-alumna addressing fellow Scholars and alumni at the event.

“We are all here because someone chose to give. During my first year at Makerere, I contributed to some young man’s school fees back home in my community. The young man is now in his second year at Makerere. You don’t have to be wealthy to make an impact; be intentional in your giving, and you will witness the difference it makes. There is no greater fulfilment than helping someone in need,” Akwara stated.

Some of the Scholars praying for their raffle draw tickets to win. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the Scholars praying for their raffle draw tickets to win.

The event was punctuated with a number of activities that ranged from auctioning items, raffle draws, exhibitions, quizzes and a lot of games and fun.

The winner of the grand draw walked away with a flat screen TV. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The winner of the grand draw walked away with a flat screen TV.

Carol Kasujja and Bernard Buteera form the communications team for the Scholars Programme at Makerere University.

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

First-Year Student’s Joining Instructions 2025/26

Published

on

Dear Students; Class of 2025/2026
I am very delighted to welcome you to Makerere University. You are joining a Premier University and I hope you all are excited to start your new academic journey. We would like to first congratulate all of you for successfully overcoming the many challenges you have all faced, from completing high school to choosing a university and a study program and the extensive delays in the admission process you experienced.

As you are about to begin one of the most exciting times in your life, you should acknowledge and appreciate your efforts and achievements so far. I am aware that as a fresher, you are filled with hope and ambition, and I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the road that has brought you here. I know that you have worked hard and overcome many obstacles
to reach this point. So, take a moment to savor this achievement and be proud of yourselves.

Now, as you step into the next phase of your lives, I want to remind you that this is a time of growth and exploration. You will face new challenges, make new friends, and gain experiences that will shape you into the person you will become. This is the time to embrace new opportunities, learn from your mistakes, and never stop growing.

I also want to emphasise the importance of hard work, determination, and resilience. These are the qualities that will help you overcome any obstacle and succeed in your endeavors. Remember to keep your focus on your goals and work towards them with determination.
I encourage you to approach your studies with a growth mindset. This means that you believe that your abilities can be developed through hard work and perseverance. Remember that failure is not the end, but rather an opportunity to learn and grow.

Professor Buyinza Mukadasi (PhD)
Academic Registrar

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

Trending