General
RUFORUM celebrates 10 years of Regional Agricultural Transformation
- Book on RUFORUM achievements for ten years launched
- Outstanding Research Scientists and Farmers get awards
- Proposal to operationalize Graduate Teaching Assistantship tabled
- Deans urged on Postgraduate completion rates
The 9th RUFORUM Annual General Meeting concluded in Kigali Rwanda with a call for the 32 partner universities to mutually support each others’ academic endeavors. The three day conference held from 19th to 21st September 2013 was officially opened by Rwanda’s Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Pierre Damien Habumuremyi at the Serena Hotel.
On arrival, the Prime Minister toured the exhibitions featuring RUFORUM partnering Universities and agricultural related organisations showcasing their latest technologies and innovations including CABI, the National University of Rwanda, Nairobi University of Kenya, Bunda College University of Malawi and University of Swaziland.
Makerere University Uganda exhibited various agro processed products from the Food Technology and Business Incubation Centre, as well as animal and crop technologies that stunned conference participants.
Makerere’s Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration Assoc. Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe represented the Vice Chancellor John Ddumba-Ssentamu at the conference. Prof. Bernard Bashaasha (Principal), Prof. Patrick Rubayihayo and Assoc. Prof. Patrick Okori represented the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES). Others were Dr. Jessica Nakavuma (Deputy Principal) and Dr. David Owiny (Dean School Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory Sciences) from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB)
Rt. Hon. Pierre Damien Habumuremyi then launched the RUFORUM book highlighting the network achievements over the past ten years of its existence titled, “ DIRTY HANDS, FINE MINDS: The Story of an Agricultural Research and Training Network in African Universities”, authored by Mary Anne Fitzgerald and Megan Lindow.
The book discusses RUFORUM programs drawn from solid international experiences which identify how universities are central to achieving successful agricultural transformation. The book shows how the RUFORUM member universities are building strong ties to business enterprises to provide role models, case studies and enhancing opportunities. The book also highlights collaborations among RUFORUM universities that have given students, staff and more importantly farmers access the knowledge and facilities within those universities.
Prime Minister, Pierre Damien Habumuremyi later handed over IMPRESSA awards to Africa’s top three research scientists whose work had a continental impact. The first prize winner was Prof. Richard Kiprombeyi from Moi University Kenya. The second prize went to Prof. Robert Okalebo from Eldoret University Kenya as a distinguished scientist in the area of Soil Management in Africa while Prof. Emmanuel Kaunda from Bunda College University of Malawi got the prize for developing the Fisheries and Aquaculture Centre that has benefitted many.
Two outstanding scientists in Agriculture in Rwanda were also awarded for improving peoples’ livelihoods. The trophies were handed over by Rwanda’s Minister of Education, Dr. Vincent Biruta. Dr. Bucyaca Charles, a lecturer in the Department of Agricultural Sciences was recognized for writing a paper on Soil Conservation Technology used by farmers such as cover terracing which has impacted on the farming communities in Rwanda. The other scientist was Dr. Kagaba Desire working with the Rwanda Agricultural Board. He was recognized for his work in Agricultural Watershed Management.
Five outstanding innovative farmers in Rwanda were also given trophies and awarded 5000 Rwanda Francs to improve their farming activities in recognition of their distinguished efforts and commitment to improve the agricultural sector. The trophies were handed over to Ms. Twimbazimana Consolae, Mr. Simeo Gyizimana and Mrs. Uwera Flora among others by RUFORUM Board chairman Prof. Levy Nyagura.
In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Pierre Damien Habumuremyi told participants that the mission and vision of RUFORUM was in line with that of the Government of Rwanda geared towards transforming the education system and improving people’s livelihoods, “ This meeting has given Rwanda a golden opportunity to celebrate achievements of RUFORUM for the past ten years and to witness the award ceremony to its outstanding farmers and Scientists”, he said.
The Prime Minister thanked RUFORUM for taking a bold step to reach out and promote a broad agenda of not the “Ivory Tower Syndrome” but working in a partnership model that has changed many lives. He appreciated RUFORUM for making a difference in graduate training saying, over 20 Rwandese students had benefited, trained and returned home. He added that to-date RUFORUM support to agricultural research had reached to a tune of 9million USD with support from donors.
Rt. Hon. Pierre Damien Habumuremyi said over the past ten years much had been achieved through RUFORUM network universities including the production of high performing graduates and research output that was responsive to national needs and development , “ RUFORUM goal is in line with the Vision of President Kagame in what concerns the development of agricultural sector in Rwanda and the transformation of Africa, elimination of hunger and poverty”, The Prime Minister reiterated.
He said Rwanda’s next focus was to increase productivity and agriculture value chain and attract the private sector to improve agriculture that require agricultural education and a critical mass to transform agriculture. He pledged his government commitment to support the network activities.
He added that Government of Rwanda would like to be actively involved in the network by linking Rwanda agricultural universities with private institutions, providing exposure to RUFORUM network facilities, accessing network centers of excellence, carrying out research and fighting pests and diseases among others.
The conference brought together, Permanent secretaries, Vice chancellors, Deans and Principals from the partnering universities, colleges and faculties. The committee of Deans and Principal’s held a Pre – Annual General Meeting and discussed various issues including the need to improve on the visibility and funding of the network activities, the relevance of the curriculum , graduate completion rates, governance issues, quality assurance and the proposed mobility program of Graduate Teaching Assistant ship(GTA) among other things.
The idea of Graduate Training Assistantship (GTA) was submitted by RUFORUM Secretariat where it was noted that about three quarters of the Vice chancellors of the partnering universities had signed a Memorandum of Understanding endorsing it as a good initiative.
Under this arrangement, the host university provides fellowships / student assistantship that will include waiver on tuition fees and all other related program fees. The hosting university also provides the staff member with research funds available at the university; have such students registered for a PhD or MSc and then fix the candidate on the timetable to teach at the host university as part of their contribution. The sending university on the other hand, will provide their staff or PhD student with return tickets and all related travel expenses including living out allowances during the mobility period.
The proposal was seen as a good initiative that will promote academic mobility among partnering universities as part of the effort to train a pool of PhD level academic staff that will also promote regional integration and cross fertilization of expertise with the region.
Addressing Principals and Deans, the Chairman RUFORUM Board Prof. Levy Nyagura who is also Vice Chancellor University of Zimbabwe described the Deans as champions of research and implored them to support the GTA initiative saying, it was an indirect way of financing Postgraduate studies and a strategy of dealing with limited financial resources to support graduates.
“Let us have a common vision as RUFORUM family regarding uplifting each other in terms of academics. The bottom line is to accept the idea. We have not come up with implementation modalities. Secretariat will engage with you deans and prepare a dozzier to that effect. The Deans should bring suggestions of what they think should be done to make the scheme effective and efficient for the future academics. “Prof. Levy Nyagura appealed to the Deans.
In the same forum, the Deans were also requested to ensure that Post graduate students complete their studies within the stipulated rules and regulations. This followed the Deans and Principals committee meeting which raised concerns over complaints that some students were taking too long to graduate.
The Board chairman asked Deans to consider themselves as responsible for creating a good academic environment for students to complete. “Deans should gauge the number of admissions vis-a-vis the number of supervisors and guide the system on what is possible regarding postgraduate admission and the existing capacity’, The Board Chairman advised.
The conference was also punctuated by presentations from other agricultural organizations including ASARECA, CTA and CARDESSA. All RUFORUM partnering universities received membership certificates.
RUFORUM is a consortium of 32 member universities in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa. The Principals and Deans responsible for agriculture in these universities are the main entry point of implementation and achievements of RUFORUM output and impacts in agricultural graduates, the university and sector at large in those countries.
Regular meetings of the Deans and Principals are a key channel for networking, sharing and lesson learning, collective discussion and agreements on regional initiatives that influence change for the better focus in the colleges, faculties and universities. END
Story by Jane Anyango & Agaba Issa Mugabo
The grounds of Makerere University came alive with energy and ambition as students, graduates, and industry leaders gathered for the 2026 Makerere Careers Fair, an engagement that continues to cement the University’s role as a bridge between academic training and the realities of the modern workplace.
Held in partnership with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) as part of the wider NSSF Career Expo, and the US-Mission Uganda, the three-day event created a vibrant space where conversations about careers moved beyond theory into lived, practical experience. The Yusuf Lule, Central Teaching Facility, Auditorium, the Freedom Square and exhibition spaces transformed into arenas of exchange, where students interacted directly with employers, asked difficult questions about their futures, and began to map out their professional journeys with greater clarity.
At the heart of this year’s engagement on day one, 11th March, 2026, was a theme that resonated deeply with a generation stepping into uncertainty: “Man or Machine: Exploring AI’s Impact on Careers.” Across panel discussions and keynote sessions, speakers challenged students to confront the realities of a rapidly shifting job market. The message was consistent: technology is not simply displacing jobs; it is reshaping them, demanding a workforce that is adaptable, digitally fluent, and grounded in distinctly human skills such as creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence.
Day Two, 12th March, 2026, led by the United States Mission to Uganda, shifted the focus to global opportunities, equipping students with practical guidance on U.S. university applications, scholarships, and visa processes, as well as fully funded fellowships they can apply for. Through direct engagement with credible experts, students gained clarity on navigating international academic pathways and positioning themselves competitively beyond national borders, expanding the Careers Fair’s scope from local employability to global mobility.
The final day, 13th March 2026, under the theme “Connecting potential to purpose: Partnerships for sustainable impact,” brought together Makerere University and key partners, including Stanbic Bank, Absa Bank Uganda, TotalEnergies Uganda, the Uganda Police, Pslams Food Industries, among others, to emphasise collaboration as the cornerstone of career readiness. The conversations underscored a shared commitment to aligning education with industry needs, demonstrating that sustainable career pathways are built through strong partnerships that connect talent to opportunity in a rapidly evolving world.
What stood out most was not just the content of these conversations, but the way students engaged with them. There was a palpable sense of curiosity and urgency, as young people sought to understand where they fit in a future increasingly defined by automation and innovation. For many, the Careers Fair became more than an event; it was a bridge to internship and graduate trainee opportunities, and to careers whose balls were set rolling. It was a moment of reckoning and possibility.
This transformation was made possible through a strong network of partners whose presence underscored the importance of collaboration in shaping career pathways. NSSF Uganda anchored the engagement with insights into financial planning and long-term security, reframing how young professionals think about work beyond immediate income. Stanbic Bank Uganda brought industry perspective, offering students a clearer understanding of the competencies required to thrive in the financial sector. The United States Mission to Uganda contributed to broadening horizons through knowledge exchange and exposure to global opportunities, while TotalEnergies Uganda highlighted the evolving energy sector landscape and the role of innovation in driving sustainability, among other players.
Together, these partners did more than exhibit; they participated in shaping a narrative about the future of work that is inclusive, dynamic, and grounded in real-world demands.
For Makerere University, the Careers Fair represents more than an annual engagement; it is a reflection of its enduring commitment to preparing students for life beyond the lecture room. By convening diverse actors from academia, industry, and development spaces, the University continues to position itself as a national hub for talent development and thought leadership. It is within these spaces that education becomes truly transformative, where knowledge meets opportunity, and where ambition is matched with access.
Advancing Partnerships for Sustainable Impact
The Careers Fair also speaks directly to Makerere University’s Advancement agenda, which is increasingly focused on building purposeful, long-term partnerships that extend the University’s impact beyond its campus.
Through such engagements, Makerere is intentionally cultivating relationships that create shared value. The presence of industry leaders and development partners is not incidental; it is part of a deliberate strategy to align academic training with market realities while opening up pathways for mentorship, internships, and employment. These collaborations are gradually shaping an ecosystem in which students are not only educated but also actively supported in their transition into the workforce.
What emerges is a model of engagement that moves beyond transactional interactions to something far more meaningful. Partners are not just sponsors or participants; they are co-creators in preparing the next generation of professionals. In turn, Makerere strengthens its position as a trusted partner, one capable of convening, connecting, and contributing to national and global development priorities.
As conversations from the Careers Fair continue to echo across campus, one thing remains clear: the future of work will belong to those prepared to evolve with it. Makerere University, through platforms such as this, is ensuring that its students are not merely observers of change but active participants in shaping it.
Caroline Kainomugisha is the Communications Officer, Advancement Office, Makerere University.
General
Makerere University and Tumusiime Mutebile Foundation Sign MOU to Advance Centre of Excellence for Private Sector Development
Makerere University and the Tumusiime Mutebile Foundation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance the Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile Centre of Excellence for Private Sector Development, marking a significant step toward strengthening collaboration between academia, policy actors, and the private sector.
The agreement formalises a strategic partnership aimed at promoting research, policy dialogue, entrepreneurship development, innovation, and knowledge exchange to support Uganda’s economic transformation and the growth of its private sector.
The MoU, which will run for an initial five-year term, brings together Makerere University’s academic and research expertise with the Tumusiime Mutebile Foundation’s commitment to advancing the legacy of the late Governor Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile, one of Uganda’s most influential economic reformers and a proud alumnus of the University.
Advancing a Shared Vision for Private Sector Development
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi, SC, Chairman of the Tumusiime Mutebile Foundation, described the occasion as an important milestone that establishes a purposeful partnership between two institutions committed to knowledge, national development, and the advancement of Uganda’s private sector.
“This is an important occasion because it formalises a partnership between two institutions with a shared commitment to knowledge, to national development, and to the advancement of Uganda’s private sector,” he noted.
Rt. Hon. Mbabazi emphasised that Uganda’s future prosperity will depend on the strength and competitiveness of its private sector and the country’s ability to nurture innovation, entrepreneurship, and sound policy.
According to him, the Centre will provide a practical platform through which research can inform policy, young people can be trained and inspired, partnerships can be built, and innovation can be supported to help enterprise flourish.
“These are not separate concerns,” he said. “They are all part of the same national task: building an economy that creates jobs, expands opportunity, and improves the lives of our people.”
Makerere’s Role in Hosting the Centre
Makerere University will host the Centre of Excellence and support its work through its research capacity, innovation ecosystem, and network of scholars and experts. The University leadership noted that the partnership aligns closely with Makerere’s mission as one of Africa’s leading research universities and its commitment to knowledge-driven development.
In her remarks, Prof. Sarah Ssali noted, “Makerere University is fully committed to hosting, resourcing, and championing the Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile Centre of Excellence, and we look forward to working closely with the Foundation to attract additional partnerships that will strengthen its impact.”
The collaboration will bring together academic excellence and practical engagement with the private sector, positioning the Centre as a national resource for policy research, entrepreneurship development, and dialogue on economic transformation.
She also reaffirmed Makerere’s commitment to working closely with the Tumusiime Mutebile Foundation to attract additional partnerships and funding to strengthen the Centre and expand its impact.
Honouring the Legacy of Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile
Beyond its institutional significance, the establishment of the Centre represents a tribute to the enduring legacy of Governor Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile, who served for many years as Governor of the Bank of Uganda and played a central role in shaping Uganda’s economic policy and institutional development.
Governor Mutebile was widely recognised for his intellectual rigour, commitment to sound economic policy, and dedication to building strong institutions that could support sustainable growth and stability.
Through the Centre of Excellence bearing his name, Makerere University and the Tumusiime Mutebile Foundation seek not only to commemorate his contributions but also to continue advancing the values he championed, including policy discipline, intellectual seriousness, and a commitment to national development.
As Rt. Hon. Mbabazi noted that legacy should be understood not merely as remembrance but as meaningful work that benefits future generations. “It is about creating a platform through which research can inform policy, through which young people can be trained and inspired, and through which innovation can be supported,” he said.
A Platform for Ideas, Innovation, and National Development
The Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile Centre of Excellence for Private Sector Development is expected to serve as a hub for research, capacity building, entrepreneurship support, and policy engagement aimed at strengthening Uganda’s private sector and expanding economic opportunity.
By bringing together academia, policymakers, business leaders, and innovators, the Centre will help foster practical solutions to the challenges facing enterprise development while nurturing the next generation of Ugandan entrepreneurs and economic leaders.
Through this partnership, Makerere University and the Tumusiime Mutebile Foundation have taken an important step toward ensuring that Governor Mutebile’s legacy continues to inspire ideas, institutions, and opportunities that contribute to Uganda’s long-term prosperity.
Caroline Kainomugisha is the Communications Officer, Advancement Office, Makerere University.
General
Career Expo 2026 Concludes as Students Gain Industry Insights, Career Guidance, and Networking Opportunities
The Makerere University Careers Expo 2026 has successfully concluded, offering a wealth of opportunities to students from diverse academic backgrounds. Held from March 11–13, 2026, the three-day event climaxed under the theme “Connecting Potential to Purpose: Partnerships for Sustainable Impact.” It provided a dynamic platform for career guidance, job opportunities, entrepreneurship training, networking, innovation, and insights into evolving workplace dynamics.
Associate Professor Anthony Gidudu, Chairperson of the Organizing Committee, expressed gratitude to sponsors and participants for their support.
“Thank you, Makerere University, for entrusting me with this immense responsibility,” he said, acknowledging the collective effort behind the event’s success.
He encouraged students to fully utilize the opportunities presented at the expo. “Make the most of it,” he urged.
The expo attracted prominent partners, including the Parliament of Uganda and the Uganda Police Force, who offered valuable career insights and opportunities. Gidudu also welcomed Professor Buyinza Mukadasi, the Academic Registrar of Makerere University, recognizing his pivotal role in shaping students’ academic journeys.
On behalf of the University, Professor Buyinza Mukadasi emphasized the significance of the Career Expo 2026.
“This event gives us a chance to support our students in transitioning from the academic world to the world of work,” he noted.
He commended the theme for underscoring the importance of aligning students’ abilities with purpose and societal contribution. Prof. Mukadasi also expressed appreciation to key partners, including the MasterCard Foundation, NSSF, and the Parliament of Uganda, as well as collaborators such as the Makerere University Advancement Office, Stanbic Bank, Old Mutual, DFCU Bank, Uganda Baati, and ABSA.
Reflecting on the role of technology, he noted that artificial intelligence enhances efficiency but does not replace human potential. He urged students to embrace lifelong learning, referencing the well-known assertion that “the illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.”
In his keynote address, Paul Rumanda Rugambwa, Head of Human Resources at the Infectious Diseases Institute, emphasized the importance of aligning potential with purpose.
“Potential is what you have, while purpose is what the world expects from you tomorrow,” he said.
Rugambwa encouraged students to develop transferable skills, seek mentorship, and uphold integrity. He highlighted agility and digital literacy as essential competencies in today’s job market.
“It doesn’t matter what course you are pursuing, you must be digitally literate,” he emphasized.
He also urged students to view their peers as future collaborators, drawing inspiration from global success stories built on partnerships.
The closing session featured a panel discussion with representatives from various organizations who deliberated on key issues across multiple sectors.
Israel Arinaitwe, Head of Personal Banking at Stanbic Bank Uganda, highlighted the bank’s commitment to supporting youth entrepreneurship through targeted initiatives. He noted the availability of internship opportunities, skills training, and the Stanbic Business Incubator, which equips young people with practical business skills. He encouraged students to build financial discipline and relationships early.
On inclusion, Gorretti Byomire, Director of the Disability Research and Learning Centre at Makerere University Business School, emphasized the need for inclusive employment practices for persons with disabilities. She called for stronger commitments from both government and the private sector, including the adoption of employment quotas and incentives. She also underscored the importance of building confidence and resilience among persons with disabilities.
Addressing technology adoption, Fred Percy Kisa, Senior Manager Transformation at NSSF Uganda, urged students to embrace artificial intelligence as a complementary tool.
“It is not machine versus human; it is human plus machine versus human,” he noted, encouraging a focus on critical thinking and problem-solving.
He highlighted the growing global AI economy and called on Africa to strengthen its contribution to research and innovation.
On employment dynamics, Evelyn Kisakye, Placement Officer at the Federation of Uganda Employers, emphasized the importance of flexibility and adaptability in today’s job market. She highlighted initiatives such as the Work Readiness Project, which connects graduates to opportunities in sectors like agriculture and tourism while equipping them with essential soft skills.
Commissioner of Police Anatoli Muleterwa, Head of Community Policing Department, outlined career opportunities within the Uganda Police Force. He noted that the institution accommodates a wide range of professional qualifications and highlighted four entry pathways, from constable to officer level. He encouraged students to prepare for and consider careers in national service.
The Career Expo 2026 concluded with a strong call to action, urging students to harness their potential, embrace innovation, and pursue purpose-driven careers. Participants, predominantly students, left with renewed clarity and direction, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to make meaningful contributions to Uganda’s development.
-
General2 weeks agoCall for Applications: Diploma Holders under Government Sponsorship 2026/2027
-
General2 weeks agoAdvert: Admissions for Diploma/Degree Holders under Private Sponsorship 2026/27
-
General2 weeks agoExtension of Application Deadline for Diploma/Degree Holders 2026/2027
-
General2 weeks agoMakerere University and World Bank Sign Partnership to Strengthen Environmental and Social Sustainability Capacity
-
Health6 days ago82% Stressed: Uncovering the Hidden Mental Health Burden Among Kampala’s Taxi Drivers