General
Former Malaysian Prime Minister tips Makerere on the Oil Blessing
“The growth in wealth has been quite fast, but we have also managed to wipe out poverty in Malaysia,” said His Excellency Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, former Prime Minister of Malaysia.
On Wednesday 30th October 2012, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, members of management, staff and student representatives assembled in the Main Building Council room to welcome and listen to the words of wisdom from the former Prime Minister of Malaysia, H.E Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad. The former Prime Minister is credited with providing the critical leadership that accelerated Malaysia’s transformation from a predominantly agrarian economy into an industrial powerhouse.
“Oil exploration is a venture that brings a lot of added advantage. Because our oil reserves were small, we decided that we must participate and learn every aspect of oil exploration and production. When we started, our oil price was only 20 dollars per barrel. But today, our oil price is 100 dollars per barrel,”said His Excellency Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad who served for 22 years as Prime Minister of Malaysia.
The former Prime Minister also stressed the need to focus on education and better infrastructure to spur the development of any country. “We believe in education. The Government of Malaysia commits 25% of the national budget on education. We need knowledge and people skills to develop the country. “I am happy that the desire to acquire knowledge is great among Malaysians,” he said.
Al-Haji Habib Kagimu, the Chairman of Habib Investments (Habib Oil) and also a Trustee of the Makerere University Private Sector Forum described H.E Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad as a transformational leader who stood up to challenge the World Bank model, and instead developed a model to transform a least developed country to one of the best success stories in the world.
At this historic visit to Makerere University, H.E. Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad accompanied by his wife, Mama Siti Hasmah, and Chancellor of Multi-Media University of Malaysia led a high powered business delegation from Malaysia’s energy, manufacturing, telecommunication and oil sectors.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor John Ddumba-Ssentamu welcomed the former Prime Minister and his delegation to Makerere University. He informed the distinguished guests that at the time of their visit, Makerere University was marking 90 years of existence, and has therefore significantly contributed to human resource development at the national and international levels. Professor Dddumba-Ssentamu thanked the Government of Uganda for supporting the promotion of science and technology in Makerere University. He informed the delegation that Makerere faces a number of challenges.
“Makerere University, however, faces a number of challenges such as inadequate funding and limited resources for research. I am quite positive that these challenges can be overcome especially when we partner with institutions in Malaysia. We are hopeful that the business community in Malaysia can collaborate with Makerere University to overcome some of these challenges,” remarked the Vice Chancellor.
Hon. Ephraim Kamuntu, Minister of Water and Environment and an alumnus of Makerere University noted that at the time of
His Excellency, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad expressed his joy at finally being able to personally visit Makerere University, having previously only read about the 90 year old institution. He was therefore happy to make his maiden trip and address the Management, academia and staff on Wednesday 31st October 2012. independence in 1962, Uganda was at the same level of development with Malaysia. Hon. Kamuntu said that as Uganda celebrates her golden jubilee of independence, the visit of to Uganda very important because Ugandans aspire to move from least developed to first world status. In the same spirit, Hon. Kamuntu also commended H.E Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad’s visit to Makerere University. “If any transformation is to happen in Uganda, it must be hatched at Makerere University. This is the cradle of the transformation of ideas,” he stressed.
His Excellency, further stressed the significance of his visit to Makerere University as testament of the Government and the people of Malaysia’s belief in education, and their focus on initiating partnerships between Uganda and Makerere University on one hand and the business community in Malaysia on the other.
He then embarked on sharing the success story that saw Malaysia grow into an industrial power base:
“The first objective was to create jobs for Malaysians. When people are jobless, they think about how unfortunate they are, and they become anti-government. In order to create jobs, the Government of Malaysia provided land for farming to the people who were unemployed,” he said.
In addition, the Government of Malaysia embarked on industrialization focusing on labour- intensive industries. The Government also provided subsidies to rice growing in order to reduce the cost of living.
“We need a strong government to develop the country. Stability contributes to development. Attending to the problem of unemployment in Malaysia is responsible for our stability,” he said.
The Government of Malaysia also invited foreign investors to set up industries which would provide jobs to Malaysians. We prioritized the issue of local content and the Malaysians were able to acquire the required skills and knowledge in different sectors.
He was proud to mention that today, Malaysians are not only investing in the country, but also outside the country.
“With our small oil reserves, we decided that we must participate and learn every aspect of oil exploration and production. With the knowledge and skills acquired, the Malaysians decided to take on the oil business. I am pleased to mention that Malaysian oil companies are conducting businesses in other countries.
![[L-R] Mama Siti Hasmah, H.E. Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad and Professor John Ddumba-Ssentamu in the Council Room, Main Building on 30th September 2012.](https://news.mak.ac.ug/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Makererere-Fmr-Malaysian-PM-HE-Tun-Dr-Mahathir-Mohamad-Visit-30thOct2012-Group.jpg)
The Government of Malaysia also focused on increasing wealth through prioritising the education sector and entered into partnership with the private sector to provide state-of-the art infrastructure. The Government owns a part of the privatized telecommunication companies, and a lot of infrastructure is privatized.
“Many people think that privatization is a capitalist evil, but we turned to privatization because nationalization had been repeatedly proven to be a socialist mistake. The big privatization project, however, is not for everybody-it must go to people who have the capacity and proven record of success,” states a powerful quote extracted from his Memoirs, page 500-504.
Concluding his message on economic development, wealth and oil exploration, His Excellency, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad informed the congregation in Council Room that everyone has a role to play in building the Uganda they would like to be associated with. He advised that the academia and every Ugandan should ask the question- What do we want to do for our country?
His Excellency then presented to a book titled “A DOCTOR IN THE HOUSE: The Memoirs of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad.” The book has 843 pages, and the preface states, “This is the story of Malaysia as I see it. This is also my story.” 
In the same book, from page 500-504, the former Prime Minister of Malaysia provides a working formula for nationalization and privatization highlighting where each model works best.
Also impressed by the Vehicle design Project –Kiira Electric Vehicle by the students from Makerere University‘s College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), His Excellency pledged to initiate strong linkages between the Makerere University students and their counterparts in Malaysia working on similar projects.
The former Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Professor Livingstone Luboobi and the Chairperson of Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA), Dr. Tanga Odoi , Principals and Deans were part of the congregation that listened to the message on development, wealth, oil exploration and a good will invitation for partnership with Malaysian institutions and business community.
In moving a vote of thanks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Professor Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza expressed Makerere‘s gratitude to H.E. Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad’s for presenting the institution with a golden opportunity link up with the Malaysian universities and business community.
Article by
Ritah Namisango
Senior Public Relations Officer.
By Monica Meeme, Cynthia Ayaa Komakec and Eric Tumwesigye
Makerere University, through its Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD), in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Embassy of Sweden, UNESCO O3 Plus have successfully trained 250 Student Peer Trainers (SPTs) to strengthen student-led efforts in promoting gender equality and the prevention of gender-based violence.
The three-day capacity-building workshop, held from 5th to 7th May 2026, brought together selected student leaders from across the University and formed part of Makerere University’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and gender responsive learning environment. The training equipped participants with practical knowledge and skills to serve as peer educators, advocates, mentors, and referral points for students requiring support on gender-related issues.
The workshop covered a wide range of thematic areas, including the Makerere University Gender Equality Policy, the Policy and Regulations Against Sexual Harassment (PRASH), international, regional and national legal frameworks on gender equality, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), leadership development, effective communication, and student-led advocacy and action planning.
Facilitators included Susan Mbabazi, Principal Gender Officer; Eric Tumwesigye, Principal Gender Officer; Carol Abilat Gender Officer; Cynthia Ayaa Komakec Gender Officer; Dr. Richard Mwesigwa of UNFPA; Dr. Lilian Tukahira Assistant Administrator; and Judith Kiconco, Gender Officer.
Day One: Building Foundations for Gender Equality and Inclusion
The opening day commenced with welcome and opening remarks delivered by Ms. Susan Mbabazi, Acting Chief Gender Mainstreaming Officer; Ms. Laura Criado Lafuente, Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA); and Dr. Rodney Rugyema, Office of the Dean of Students, who represented the Vice Chancellor.
Speaking on behalf of UNFPA, Ms. Laura Criado Lafuente described the training as more than a workshop, characterising it as a movement designed to empower students to influence attitudes, behaviours, and social norms within their communities. She encouraged participants to challenge harmful practices, support survivors of gender-based violence, and serve as catalysts for positive change both within and beyond the University.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Rodney Rugyema emphasised that Makerere University’s mandate extends beyond academic excellence to ensuring the safety, well-being, and holistic development of its students. He urged participants to avoid harmful relationships, prioritise personal safety, and actively contribute to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive campus environment.
Dr. Rugyema further described Student Peer Trainers as the “eyes and ears” of the University community, underscoring their vital role in raising awareness, identifying emerging challenges, and mobilising collective action to prevent and address gender-based violence.
The first day of the workshop also introduced participants to the principles of gender equality, gender mainstreaming, and the institutional frameworks that guide Makerere University’s efforts to promote inclusion, equity, and student welfare.
Ms. Susan Mbabazi provided a historical overview of the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate and highlighted the University’s sustained commitment to creating an equitable and supportive academic environment. She also guided participants through the key provisions of the Policy and Regulations Against Sexual Harassment (PRASH), emphasising the University’s zero-tolerance stance on sexual harassment and all forms of gender-based violence.
Mr.Eric Tumwesigye facilitated a session on foundational gender concepts, enabling participants to deepen their understanding of gender dynamics, stereotypes, power relations, and the importance of promoting equality and inclusivity within university spaces.
A key highlight of the day was a presentation by Ms. Carol Abilat on the Makerere University Gender Equality Policy. She emphasised that gender equality is fundamentally rooted in fairness, dignity, and equal opportunity for all members of the University community, including marginalised groups and persons with disabilities.
Ms. Abilat further explained that the policy aligns with national development priorities and international commitments, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 on Gender Equality. Participants were introduced to critical concepts such as consent, sexual harassment, discrimination, gender blindness, and inclusive approaches to teaching, learning, leadership, and institutional management.
Day Two: Understanding Legal Frameworks and Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights
The second day focused on strengthening participants’ understanding of legal and policy frameworks that promote gender equality and protect individuals from discrimination, sexual harassment, and gender-based violence.
Facilitating the session on international, regional, and national legal frameworks, Cynthia Ayaa Komakec provided participants with a comprehensive overview of key human rights instruments and gender equality commitments.
At the international level, participants examined frameworks such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), and the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. Discussions highlighted how these instruments have shaped global efforts to eliminate discrimination and advance the rights and empowerment of women and girls.
The regional discussion focused on the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Protocol to the African Charter on the Rights of Women in Africa (Maputo Protocol), which provide important protections and promote women’s participation in social, economic, and political development across the continent.
The session also examined Uganda’s national legal and policy framework, including the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda (1995), the Uganda Gender Policy, and relevant provisions of the Penal Code Act.
A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the implementation gap that often exists between legal protections and actual practice. Participants explored the importance of accountability, institutional commitment, awareness creation, and community engagement in translating legal frameworks into meaningful outcomes.
The day also featured a session on Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) facilitated by Dr. Richard Mwesigwa from UNFPA.
Dr. Mwesigwa introduced participants to UNFPA’s mandate and mission before guiding them through key concepts relating to sexual health, reproductive health, rights, and access to services. The session addressed the importance of informed decision-making, consent, healthy relationships, prevention of gender-based violence, and available support mechanisms for students experiencing harassment or abuse.
Participants were also equipped with practical guidance on how Student Peer Trainers can provide information, make referrals, and support fellow students in accessing appropriate services and assistance.
Throughout the day, facilitators emphasised the need to position students as active change agents capable of promoting positive behavioural change within colleges, halls of residence, and wider communities.
Day Three: Partnerships, Leadership and Action Planning
The final day focused on strengthening peer leadership skills and equipping participants with practical tools for developing and implementing student-led initiatives.
Representatives from development partners reaffirmed the importance of youth leadership and collaborative action in addressing gender inequalities and preventing gender-based violence.
Addressing participants, Jessica Pellrud from the Embassy of Sweden emphasised that gender equality remains a critical pillar of sustainable development. She encouraged students to become long-term advocates for social transformation by challenging harmful norms, supporting survivors, and promoting inclusive participation among both women and men.
Eric Tumwesigye reflected on the growth of the Student Peer Trainers programme noting that the initiative has expanded from training 50 students annually to 250 peer educators. The expansion is intended to strengthen outreach and increase access to peer support services across the University.
He encouraged participants to integrate gender awareness into broader discussions on mental health, academic achievement, healthy relationships, and responsible digital engagement.
Facilitating the action-planning session, Dr. Lilian Tukahirwa guided participants through the process of designing practical and achievable interventions for their respective colleges. She emphasised the importance of creativity, flexibility, teamwork, and collaboration with academic staff and College leadership to ensure sustainable impact.
The workshop concluded with participants developing action plans aimed at promoting gender equality, preventing sexual harassment, and strengthening awareness and support mechanisms within their academic units.
Renewed Commitment to Student-Led Change
In his closing remarks, Eric Tumwesigye commended participants for their commitment, discipline, and active engagement throughout the three-day training programme. He also acknowledged the valuable contributions of facilitators and development partners, including UNFPA, and the Embassy of Sweden.
He announced that participants would undertake online evaluations and receive support in developing concept papers for college-based initiatives designed to promote gender equality and prevent sexual harassment.
Tumwesigye emphasised that while institutional support remains critical, the long-term success of the programme depends on sustained student leadership, ownership, and commitment.
The workshop concluded with a renewed pledge from the newly trained Student Peer Trainers to champion gender equality, support vulnerable students, and contribute to building a safer, more inclusive, and gender-responsive Makerere University community.
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