General

CODESRIA HELP Call for Proposals for National Working Groups & Comparative Research Networks

Published

14 years ago

August 10, 2012

Mark Wamai

Within the framework of its mandate to build knowledge on Africa produced in the African continent or by the African scholars, the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA) invites
proposals from researchers based in African universities and research centres to constitute *National Working Groups (NWGs), and/ or Comparative Research Networks (CRNs)*, to undertake studies around its newly launched research programme on higher education leadership in Africa (HELP).

This call for proposals is intended for university based scholars and researchers from the six countries that are, for the time being, covered by the project. These are Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and South Africa.

The Higher Education Leadership Programme (HELP)
Globally, higher education has undergone profound changes over the last two decades. Traditional conceptions of the university have been challenged by the forces of globalization, the increased use of ICTs, and the
introduction and spread of the market logic into the higher education sector. Today, a variety of new types of higher education institutions exists. Student demographics, access and delivery modes have changed too.
In the midst of these changes traditional modes of higher education governance and leadership have come under close scrutiny. Central to this questioning especially with regard to higher education institutions in
Africa is not only how traditional governance structures (where they still exist), are responding to these changes, but also what kind of leadership and governance is needed to position the institutions to confront the
challenges and positively respond to the development challenges of their societies. Higher education leadership in the continent face continued pressures to innovate and adapt to the rapid changes affecting the sector, and those affecting the societies more generally.

With the advent of a global consensus on the importance of knowledge for development, African higher education is receiving much greater attention than before. The strategic importance of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the education systems has now been widely recognized and acknowledged. However, the leadership of universities in Africa is increasingly obliged to respond to or adapt to changes coming from Europe and the United States, such as those associated with the Bologna Process, and the introduction of the LMD (the French acronym for Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate degree programmes) in Francophone Africa, and the broad allay of forces in global higher education categorized as Internationalization

What are the implications of such changes for HE leadership and how have the adaptation processes contributed to the evolution of leadership roles in African universities? How can African HE leaders ensure that African HE continues to be informed by, and relevant to Africa’s realities and needs for democratic transformation and development, rather than being primarily driven by concerns that are far removed from those of the African continent and its peoples?

A key issue that this Programme will seek to address, therefore, is to better understand the various changes taking place with regard to the governance and leadership of higher education institutions in Africa, the
nature and forces at play in constituting leadership and governance organs in HEIs in Africa, the extent to which changes in governance and leadership of African HE have contributed or not to changing the general
perceptions of the mission and roles of HEIs, documenting of case studies of governance and leadership that have had a positive impact in repositioning the institutions to respond to their missions (weather such
leadership has emanated from the core institutional management team, faculty boards, etc., or student and staff Unions, or both). Furthermore, the Program seeks to encourage research that will focus on investigating
how changes in the higher education system and the perceptions of the mission and roles of HEIs are impacting on HE leadership, the types of adaptation that HE leadership has had to make to respond to the challenges associated with globalization and the spread of managerialism in the HE sector?

CODESRIA’s history is inextricably linked to the challenges which the African higher education system have faced at various stages of its development, and the changing contexts within which different generations
of African scholars have evolved and strived to function. The Programme therefore seeks to deepen scholarly understanding of the nature of, trends in and challenges associated with Higher Education Leadership and
university governance in Africa in the second decade of the 21st Century.

The universities form the core constituency of CODESRIA, and the main site of the bulk of CODESRIA’s research and research training activities. CODESRIA is also one of the few institutions that have been carrying out
social science research on HE in Africa. In the past ten years alone, CODESRIA has launched several national working groups (NWG), and comparative research networks (CRN), as well as a multinational working
group (MWG) on HE. In addition to the Journal of Higher Education in Africa, CODESRIA has published many books on HE and academic freedom. This Programme is therefore informed to a large extent by CODESRIA’s own experience working with the HEIs of Africa, and by the research it has already carried out on the dynamics and challenges facing the HE sector in Africa. These experience and materials have tended to identify governance and leadership as some of the most important issues for African HE in the 21st Century. So, this programme on HE leadership will bring the knowledge on HE and, more specifically, on HE governance and leadership to new and higher levels, both scientifically and from a policy perspective.

Objectives
The objectives of the Higher Education Leadership Programme are:

1) to provide a rigorous historical and social science analysis on higher education leadership and higher education governance in Africa;
2) to examine the changes which are occurring , and challenges facing, HE governance and leadership in Africa in the 21st century;
3) to identify and analyse ways in which the leadership and governance of African universities are constituted and exercised and how leadership is trying to address global, regional and local challenges facing the HE
sector.
4) to elaborate models of university leadership that can ultimately serve as a basis for new policy on the governance of the rapidly expanding higher education sector.

Strategies
The High Education Leadership Programme aims to produce high quality knowledge on HE leadership through 1) comparative research experiences shared across countries, both at the institutional level and at the more
general system level; 2) research teams on HE that are similar to National Working Groups or Comparative Research Networks 3) research grants and fellowships on a competitive basis, 4) case studies; 5) publications of research findings.

Researchers who are interested are requested to send a research proposal (in form of National Working Groups-NWG or Comparative Research Networks-CRN) that highlight clearly the questions they want to address.

** **

NWG are set up to mobilise national-level research capacities and to channel these into autonomous organised reflections on research themes of their choice. They have been an important instrument for promoting research into and publications about different national-level experiences pertinent to the pre-occupations of African scholars active in the Social Sciences and Humanities. The size of an NWG will vary from country to country but on average, most of the groups sponsored by CODESRIA in the past have had between five and seven members. ****

** **

The primary purpose of CRNs is to encourage the development and
consolidation of a comparative analytic perspective in the work of African
social researchers. In so doing, it is hoped to establish a strong corpus
of comparative studies produced by African scholars that could help to
advance theoretical knowledge and discussion. ****

** **

For more information on NWG and CRN see www.codesria.org.

** **

Each proposal should include:-an introduction, a problem statement, a literature review, the objectives of the study, the research methodology, the expected results, the outline of the proposed budget and time frame
knowing that the total duration of the study is 18 months from the date of launch. Furthermore, the proposal should include information on the research team, including the coordinator(s) of the group, the bio data of
researchers, their institutional affiliations, and the curriculum vitae of the coordinator and members of the network.

A proposal should not exceed 12 pages (font Times New Roman, size 12, line spacing: single).

Authors of proposals are requested to pay close attention to the methodology they intend to apply and to demonstrate a good understanding of the leadership and governance challenges facing the HE sector in Africa.
For CRNs, a comparative approach involving scholars from at least two countries out of the six covered by the project (Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and South Africa) is highly encouraged. The teams are
requested to ensure that they are multidisciplinary in composition, sensitive to gender issues, and accommodative of younger scholars.

Each team will be entitled to organise three meetings/workshops during its lifespan, the first one is a methodological workshop; the second to evaluate the progress of the work, and the third to review draft research reports, and identify policy recommendations, and begin disseminating the results. For indicative purposes, the budget for each group will vary from USD 10,000 to USD 35,000, based on past grants that have been awarded by CODESRIA under similar programmes. Similarly, although no specific format is required for the presentation of the budget, authors are requested to note that resources will be allocated by the Council to cover the following costs:

i)     A methodological workshop for the members of the NWG/CRN;
ii)    A mid-term review workshop on the progress of the research;
iii)   The field work to be undertaken by the members of the network;
iv)   Books to be purchased for the research;
v)    The honorarium to be paid to the members of the research network for the work undertaken.
vi)   A final workshop

For this call for proposals, CODESRIA will be open to receive proposals up to 15th September 2012. Notification of the result of the selection committee will be done by 30th September 2012. Proposals (Electronic version) for the constitution of NWGs or CRNs should be sent to:

Higher Education Research Leadership Programme (HELP)
CODESRIA,
BP 3304, CP 18524
Dakar, Senegal.
Tel: +221-33 825 98 22/23
Fax:+221-33 824 12 89
E-mail: help@codesria.sn
Web Site: http://:www.codesria.org
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/CODESRIA/181817969495
Twitter: http://twitter.com/codesria

NB: In addition to the CVs of the team members required, the identification sheet (Please see Attachments Below) for the updated database of the Council should be filled and sent along with the proposal .The applicants should clearly indicate on the outer page of the proposal if they are submitting for NWG or CRN, with the
designated group or network coordinator(s) identified. Incomplete proposals and those sent outside the deadline will not be considered.

General

Graduation marks the next phase of accountability, graduates told

Published

22 hours ago

February 25, 2026

Carol Kasujja Adii

Left to Right: Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe,Prof. Nicholas Ozor, Rt. Hon. Daniel Kidega, Dr. Lorna Magara, Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, Ms. Anthea Ampaire and Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga in the academic procession. 76th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CAES, CoCIS, CEES and School of Law. Commencement Speaker-Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya. 24th February 202, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

“A degree is not a finish line. Graduation is not the end of learning, It is the beginning of accountability,” Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network Nairobi, Kenya (ATPS), said.

Delivering a keynote address under the theme ‘Knowledge with purpose’, during Makerere University’s 76^th graduation ceremony on Tuesday 24^th February, Prof Ozor, challenged graduates to see their degrees not as status symbols, but as instruments of responsibility.

In his speech, he painted a candid picture of the world the graduates are stepping into, one marked by climate change, technological disruption, inequality, food insecurity and the rapid spread of misinformation. Yet rather than framing these challenges as obstacles, he described them as opportunities for purposeful leadership.

“Into this world, you step, armed with knowledge, credentials, and potential. Your degrees do not make you better than others. They make you responsible for others,” Prof Ozor, said.

Addressing graduands from College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES)
College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), College of Education and External Studies (CEES) and School of Law (SoL), Prof. Ozor tailored his message to each field of study.

To graduates of the School of Law, he described the legal profession as a moral calling, urging them to use the law to protect the vulnerable and uphold justice with courage.

“Uganda, Africa, and the world do not need lawyers who only know how to argue. They need lawyers who know why they argue. Use the law to protect the weak, not intimidate them. Use your knowledge to defend justice, not delay it. Let integrity define your reputation not merely your résumé,” Prof Ozor, said.

For graduands who might feel that shortcuts will be tempting and silence will feel safer than truth, Prof. Ozor reminded them that justice does not need clever people, but courageous ones.

To the College of Education and External Studies, he underscored the transformative power of teachers, reminding them that classrooms shape nations long before policies do.

“Every nation rises and falls on the quality of its teachers. Never underestimate the power of a classroom. Teach not only for examinations, but for understanding. Teach not only content, but character. Teach learners how to think not what to think. Education is quiet work but its impact echoes across generations,” Prof Ozor, noted.

He called upon graduands from the College of Computing and Information Sciences, to use technology to solve African problems, not merely to imitate foreign solutions.

“Technology is powerful, but it is not neutral. Every line of code carries values. Every system you design affects real lives. Build for inclusion. Build for accessibility. Build for truth. Do not let innovation outrun ethics. The future will not belong to those who know the most technology, but to those who use it wisely,” He noted.

During the ceremony, Prof Ozor announced that the African Technology Policy Studies Network is offering PhD scholarships and postdoctoral fellowships in Artificial Intelligence, inviting deeper collaboration with Makerere.

For graduates of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, he highlighted their critical role at the intersection of sustainability and survival, calling on them to blend indigenous knowledge with scientific innovation to secure Africa’s food systems and protect its ecosystems.

In closing, he reminded graduands that their integrity will open doors their degrees cannot, their humility will teach them lessons success never will, and their resilience will matter more than their grades.

Five principles to be remembered:

Embrace lifelong learning. The world changes too fast for static knowledge.
Choose purpose over comfort. Impact matters more than income.
Build character before career. Skills get you hired; character sustains you.
Serve something larger than yourself. Give back to your communities and your country.
Believe in Africa, and act. Do not wait for solutions from elsewhere. Be the solution.

General

Over 9,200 to graduate at Makerere University’s 76th Graduation

Published

1 day ago

February 24, 2026

Carol Kasujja Adii

The Chief Guest-Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu who represented the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports followed by Mace Bearer-Ms. Anthea Ampaire and the Chancellor-Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga makes her way into the Freedom Square. 76th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CAES, CoCIS, CEES and School of Law. Commencement Speaker-Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya. 24th February 202, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Pomp and colour defined the opening day of the Makerere University’s 76^th Graduation Ceremony as thousands gathered to celebrate academic excellence and new beginnings.

The historic ceremony has brought together scholars, families, friends and industry partners in a vibrant celebration of achievement and possibility. Throughout the four-day event, the University will confer degrees and award diplomas to 9,295 graduands in recognition of their dedication and hard work.

Among the graduates, 213 will receive Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, 2,503 will graduate with Master’s degrees, and 6,343 will earn Bachelor’s degrees. In addition, 206 students will graduate with postgraduate diplomas, while 30 will be awarded undergraduate diplomas.

Of the total number of graduands, 4,262 are female and 5,033 are male. According to Vice Chancellor, this marks the first time in 15 years that male graduands have outnumbered their female counterparts.

The best overall graduand in the Sciences, Esther Ziribaggwa, graduated on the opening day with the Bachelor of Agricultural and Rural Innovation and an impressive Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.77.

Best Overall Student in the Sciences-Esther Ziribaggwa accompanied by her parents and the Chairperson Convocation-Mr. George Turyamureeba receives a cheque from the Chancellor. 76th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CAES, CoCIS, CEES and School of Law. Commencement Speaker-Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya. 24th February 202, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Best Overall Student in the Sciences-Esther Ziribaggwa accompanied by her parents and the Chairperson Convocation-Mr. George Turyamureeba receives a cheque from the Chancellor.***

The ceremony marks a proud moment for Makerere University as it continues to nurture top-tier professionals across diverse fields.

While presiding over the graduation, the State Minister for Primary Education, Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, on behalf of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, pointed out that Makerere University is a model institution, where leaders are nurtured, scholars are sharpened, and where dreams have been given direction.

In her address, Hon. Museveni, highlighted Government’s deliberate investment in research, innovation, and infrastructure to strengthen higher education in Uganda.

“The establishment of the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (RIF), supports high-impact research and innovation that directly contributes to national priorities and development. Through this initiative, thousands of researchers and innovators have pursued practical, scalable solutions that are transforming communities and key sectors across Uganda,” Mrs Museveni, said.

The Minister also noted that Parliament’s approved a USD 162 million concessional loan to upgrade science, technology, and innovation infrastructure at Makerere University. The funding will facilitate the construction of modern laboratories, smart classrooms, and state-of-the-art facilities for Engineering and Health Sciences, investments expected to position the University firmly within the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

“Government has embarked on the construction of a National Stadium at Makerere University and other institutions of higher learning across the country. This will promote physical education, strengthen talent identification, and boost investment in the sports sector,”

Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu. 76th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CAES, CoCIS, CEES and School of Law. Commencement Speaker-Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya. 24th February 202, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu.***

Turning to the graduands, the Minister encouraged them to see themselves not merely as job seekers, but as job creators and solution-makers.

Uganda and Africa need innovators who will modernize agriculture; engineers who will build quality infrastructure; healthcare professionals who will strengthen health systems; and educators who will inspire the next generation,” the Honourable Minister said.

She reminded graduates that they are entering a rapidly changing world shaped by Artificial Intelligence, climate change, and shifting global markets. To thrive, she advised them to remain adaptable, creative, and committed to lifelong learning.

She also encouraged graduates interested in entrepreneurship to tap into the Government’s Parish Development Model, which provides community-based financing and production support.

Quoting Proverbs 3:5–6, the Minister urged the graduates to trust in God as they embark on their next chapter.

She extended special appreciation to the Mastercard Foundation for its 13-year partnership with Makerere University in expanding access to education and empowering young people in Uganda and beyond.

In his speech, the Chancellor of Makerere University, Dr Crispus Kiyonga, urged graduands to harness research, innovation and technology to drive Uganda’s transformation.

Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga (Right) congratulates PhD Graduate-Dr. Patrick Emmanuel Muinda (Left). 76th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CAES, CoCIS, CEES and School of Law. Commencement Speaker-Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya. 24th February 202, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga (Right) congratulates PhD Graduate-Dr. Patrick Emmanuel Muinda (Left).***

“This is a milestone in your lives. You have invested time, discipline and hard work to attain these qualifications. It is important that you derive value from this achievement, not only for yourselves, but for your families and for society.” Dr Kiyonga, said.

Dr. Kiyonga expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for its continued financial support to the University, particularly the funding allocated under MakRIF, which he described as critical in strengthening the institution’s research capacity.

“Research plays a very vital role in the development of any community. Makerere as the oldest University in the country is doing a significant amount of research, However, more work is required to mobilize additional resources to further strengthen research at the University.” Dr Kiyonga, noted.

Acknowledging the challenges of a competitive job market, Dr. Kiyonga encouraged graduates to think beyond traditional employment pathways.

“It is true that the job market may not absorb all of you immediately. But the knowledge you have acquired is empowering. You can create work for yourselves, individually or in teams.” Dr Kiyonga, said.

He advised the graduands to embrace discipline, integrity and adaptability in the workplace, and to take advantage of technology and digital platforms to innovate and respond to societal challenges.

“Every development challenge presents an opportunity. Believe that you can apply your knowledge to create solutions with impact.” He said.

Addressing the congregation, the Vice Chancellor, Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, congratulated the graduands, particularly staff and societal leaders on their respective achievements.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. 76th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CAES, CoCIS, CEES and School of Law. Commencement Speaker-Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya. 24th February 202, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.***

“I congratulate all our graduands upon reaching this milestone. In a special way I congratulate the members of staff, Ministers, and Members of Parliament that are graduating today as well as children and spouses of members of staff,” Prof Nawangwe, said.

In his speech, Prof Nawangwe, recognized outstanding PhD students, particularly members of staff. who completed their PhDs in record time without even taking leave from their duties.

He called upon graduates not to despise humble beginnings but rather reflect on the immense opportunities around them and rise to the occasion as entrepreneurs.

“You are all graduating with disciplines that are needed by society. We have equipped you with the knowledge and skills that will make you employable or create your own businesses and employ others. Do not despair if you cannot find employment. Instead, reflect on the immense opportunities around you and rise to the occasion as an entrepreneur,” Prof Nawangwe, said.

Prof Nawangwe called upon the graduands of PhDs to use their degrees to transform the African continent.

“As you leave the gates of Makerere I urge you to put to good use the knowledge you have received from one of the best universities in the World to improve yourselves, your families, your communities, your Country and humanity. Let people see you and know that you are a Makerere alumnus because of the way you carry yourself in society with dignity and integrity. Put your trust in God and honour your parents and opportunities will be opened for you,” Prof Nawangwe, said.

Delivering a key note address, Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network Nairobi, Kenya ((ATPS). Reminded the graduates that a degree is not a finish line but the beginning of accountability. “The world is a complex, fast changing and deeply unequal. Degrees make you responsible for others not better than them,” Prof Ozor, said.

General

76th Graduation Highlights

Published

2 days ago

February 24, 2026

Mak Editor

Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu and Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga share a light moment. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The 76^th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University will be held from Tuesday 24^th to Friday 27^th February, 2026. A total of 213 PhDs (87 female, 126 male), 2,503 Masters (1,087 female, 1,416 male), 206 Postgraduate Diplomas (80 female, 126 male), 6,343 Undergraduate Degrees (2,999 female, 3,344 male), and 30 Undergraduate Diplomas (9 female, 21 male) will be graduating from all the Colleges.

Ms. Sarah Aloyo and Ms. Nakato Dorothy both students of the Bachelor of Procurement and Supply Chain Management emerged as the best in the Humanities and Best Overall students with a CGPA of 4.93. Mr. Ssewalu Abdul, a Bachelor of Leisure and Hospitality Management student emerged second best in the Humanities with a CGPA 4.90. Ms. Esther Ziribaggwa emerged as the best student in the Sciences with a CGPA of 4.77 in the Bachelor of Agricultural and Rural Innovation, while Mr. Simon Mungudit emerged second best in the Sciences with a CGPA of 4.76 in the Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production.

Commencement Speakers

Day 1 – Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya
Day 2 – Prof. Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson Makerere University Endowment Fund Board
Day 3 – Dr. Patricia Adongo Ojangole, Managing Director, Uganda Development Bank Limited
Day 4 – Ms. Reeta Roy, Former President & Chief Executive Officer, Mastercard Foundation

The 76^th Graduation Ceremony will be held at the Freedom Square following the schedule below:

Tuesday, 24^th February, 2026
College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES)
College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS)
College of Education and External Studies (CEES)
School of Law (SoL)

Livestream Link for Day 1: https://youtube.com/live/wVGPA0FJ9pU

Wednesday, 25^th February, 2026
College of Health Sciences (CHS)
College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS)
College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-security (CoVAB)
School of Public Health (SPH)

Thursday, 26^th February, 2026
Makerere University Business School (MUBS)
College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS)

Friday, 27^th February, 2026
College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT)
College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS)
Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS)
Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR)