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
By Moses Lutaaya
Makerere University has challenged newly admitted postgraduate diploma and master’s students to take ownership of their academic journey, produce knowledge that addresses Africa’s challenges and use their training to create opportunities for society.
The call was made on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, during the orientation of postgraduate diploma and master’s students held at the Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University. The orientation was conducted under the theme “Harnessing the Power of Graduate Training to Transform Africa’s Research Trajectory.”
Addressing the students, Prof. Sarah Ssali, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, said admission to postgraduate education marked an important transition from undergraduate study and should come with greater independence, critical thinking and responsibility.
“Postgraduate study is not just the accumulation of knowledge. You are now active researchers, critical thinkers and creators of your own knowledge,” Prof. Ssali said.
She said postgraduate training should enable students to deepen their expertise, strengthen their analytical abilities and develop solutions to real-world problems.
“Through your projects, dissertations, innovations and professional practice, you have the opportunity to contribute knowledge that can influence policies, improve services and transform lives. Your research matters, and your contribution matters,” she said.
Prof. Ssali urged students to see their studies beyond the pursuit of a degree, encouraging them to ask themselves why they had chosen postgraduate education and what contribution they intended to make to their communities and professions.
“See your coursework as an opportunity to develop knowledge and skills that will help you propose new solutions to real-world challenges,” she said.
She also encouraged students to embrace collaboration with communities and non-academic partners, saying many of them were already coming to the University with professional and community experiences that could enrich their research.
“Don’t think that your scholarship is only for those who look academic. Embrace community, embrace networks,” she said.
Prof. Ssali further cautioned the students against wasting time, noting that many postgraduate students have employment, family and other responsibilities alongside their studies.
“Make the most of your time and don’t waste it,” she said, urging students to use available study time productively even when there are changes in their lecture schedules.
She also emphasised the need for students to take responsibility for their progress instead of waiting for lecturers or supervisors to push them.
“Postgraduate education requires independence, independent inquiry, independent research, independent interrogation and also active participation,” Prof. Ssali said.
Prof. Julius Kikooma, Director of Graduate Training, told the students that their admission was a significant achievement given the large number of applicants seeking postgraduate opportunities at Makerere.
“We received over 12,000 applications to our postgraduate programmes, but we are only able to take just a small percentage of that. That means you are just the few people who are able to do this,” Prof. Kikooma said.
He urged the new students to appreciate the opportunity and understand that graduate education carries responsibilities beyond attending lectures and completing examinations.
According to Prof. Kikooma, Uganda and Africa require highly trained human capital capable of driving national and continental development priorities.
“The country needs more highly trained people if it is going to achieve its aspirations and priorities for national development,” he said.
He challenged the students to consider what Uganda and Africa would look like in the coming decades and to question whether the continent would continue relying on ideas, innovations and creations generated elsewhere.
“Will it still be a country that always depends on ideas, innovations and creations that come from outside?” he asked, before urging the students to become part of the generation that develops home-grown solutions.
Prof. Kikooma said much of what Uganda would need in the future would depend on what the country invests in today, particularly in human capital and research.
He also explained that the Directorate of Graduate Training works with colleges, schools, departments and central University units to strengthen the quality of graduate education.
“We want to make sure that what you are taking away from here is of a certain quality,” he said, adding that the University has established policies, standards and systems intended to create an environment in which postgraduate students can succeed.
However, Prof. Kikooma stressed that the University cannot take responsibility for the entire academic journey on behalf of students.
“We will not replace your programme. We will not replace your lecturers. We will not replace your supervisors. Each of those has a different role to play along your journey,” he said.
He encouraged students to be proactive by understanding their programmes, colleges and the various support services available to them.
“Successful graduates tend to be proactive rather than reactive. So don’t wait until you have a problem, then you start running from it,” Prof. Kikooma said.
He further urged the students to work within the stipulated programme period, noting that most master’s programmes take about two years while postgraduate diploma programmes generally take one year.
Prof. Robert Wamala, Director of Research, Innovations and Partnerships, urged the newly admitted students to use their graduate training to produce knowledge capable of addressing challenges facing their communities, Uganda and Africa.
He challenged them to move beyond consuming knowledge generated elsewhere and instead become producers of knowledge and solutions.
Prof. Wamala emphasised the importance of connecting research to society, innovation and professional practice, encouraging students to identify problems within their workplaces and communities that could become areas for meaningful research.
He said Africa needed researchers capable of generating evidence, innovations and practical solutions to support development rather than simply importing solutions from other parts of the world.
The Director encouraged the students to build collaborative networks during their studies and to regard the University as an ecosystem in which researchers, professionals, communities and other partners can work together.
Dr. Kizito Ongaya, Deputy University Librarian, introduced the students to Makerere’s extensive library and information resources, urging them to make the library a central part of their postgraduate studies.
He said the University Library operates a hybrid system combining physical collections with electronic resources.
“We have over 200,000 types of books in our library, with 45 e-journal databases,” Dr. Ongaya said.
He encouraged students to make use of the University’s electronic databases, noting that substantial resources are invested in providing access to scholarly journals.
“If you don’t use e-journals, you are unacceptable,” he told the students, emphasising that postgraduate research requires extensive engagement with scholarly literature.
Dr. Ongaya also highlighted the University’s archival collections, specialised libraries and information centres located across its colleges.
He said students would be guided on how to access both physical and electronic resources and encouraged them to explore specialised collections that could support their individual research areas.
Dr. Mike Barongo, Team Leader ICT, Department of the Academic Registrar, told the new students that Makerere had increasingly digitised its academic and administrative processes and urged them to complete their online registration as an immediate priority.
He said students could access their provisional admission letters through the online application system and use the student number provided to activate their student portals.
“The student portal is very, very critical,” Dr. Barongo said.
He explained that students must enrol and register in order to access key University services, including institutional email and Wi-Fi.
“Once you enroll, you create an institutional email address. That institutional email address is the gateway for you to access so many things, like Wi-Fi,” he said.
Dr. Barongo also informed students that ICT support centres were available to assist those experiencing challenges with enrolment, registration or access to digital services.
He urged students to ensure they enrol and register every semester so that the University systems can accurately capture their academic and financial information.
Others senior members in attendance include the Deputy University Bursar Mr. George Mugabi Turyamureeba and Mr. Henry Nsubuga, the Manager Makerere University Counselling and Guidance Centre.
By Moses Lutaaya
Makerere University has challenged its newly admitted PhD students to go beyond pursuing academic qualifications and become independent scholars capable of generating knowledge, solving societal problems and contributing to Africa’s transformation.
The call was made by the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, during the orientation of the 2026/2027 PhD cohort at Makerere University’s Main Hall in the Main Building on 10th August 2026.
Prof. Ssali told the new scholars that a PhD marks a fundamental shift from previous levels of education, requiring students to take greater responsibility for their academic progress rather than depending entirely on lecturers and supervisors.
“You will have to push yourself and also push your supervisor to move with you,” Prof. Ssali said, urging the students to take ownership of their doctoral journey.
She acknowledged that many PhD students have to balance their studies with employment, family responsibilities and community leadership, making doctoral training demanding. However, she urged them to remain focused on completing their programmes within the prescribed three, four or five years.
Prof. Ssali said Makerere expects its doctoral training to produce scholars who can create knowledge, challenge existing ideas and develop solutions to societal problems.
She encouraged the students to embrace ambiguity and become comfortable questioning what they already know, noting that doctoral education requires scholars to identify important questions, investigate them and generate answers that advance knowledge.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor also urged the students to develop interdisciplinary collaborations and scholarly networks rather than confining their research to their individual disciplines.
She said the success of doctoral education should not be measured merely by the number of dissertations completed or papers published, but by the extent to which research contributes to society.
With Africa facing complex challenges, including climate change, disease, population growth and development pressures, Prof. Ssali said PhD scholars have a responsibility to generate evidence that can influence policy, strengthen institutions and advance innovation.
She challenged each scholar to continually ask what problem their research addresses, what solution it advances and whether that solution can create sustainable value.
The Director of Graduate Training, Prof. Julius Kikooma, said the new cohort was joining Makerere at a time when the University is implementing reforms aimed at strengthening graduate education and improving completion rates.
Prof. Kikooma revealed that Makerere received close to 12,000 applications across its master’s, postgraduate and PhD programmes but admitted about 6,000 students.
He said graduate education has been placed at the centre of the University’s efforts to strengthen research capacity and prepare scholars to contribute to knowledge production and innovation.
Under the reforms, PhD students will undertake compulsory cross-cutting courses designed to provide foundational knowledge and skills for doctoral research. They will also be required to undertake teaching in either their second or third year under the guidance of their supervisors.
In addition to completing their theses, students will be required to produce at least two publications before graduation, a requirement intended to prepare them to become the next generation of researchers, innovators, inventors and creators.
Makerere has also introduced a digital system to monitor the progress of every PhD student each semester. The system is intended to enable students, supervisors and university officials to identify challenges early and intervene in real time.
Prof. Kikooma urged the scholars to write regularly, think critically, maintain open and constructive relationships with their supervisors and protect their academic integrity and professional reputation.
He also encouraged them to build scholarly networks and remain resilient, noting that rejected papers, disappointing data and unexpected challenges are normal aspects of doctoral training.
The Director of Research, Innovations and Partnerships, Prof. Robert Wamala, challenged the scholars to ensure that the knowledge they produce is trustworthy, responsible and ethically sound.
Prof. Wamala emphasized the importance of respecting the dignity, rights, safety and autonomy of research participants, particularly where studies involve individuals, communities and personal information.
He highlighted informed consent, privacy, confidentiality, justice and accountability as critical principles of ethical research and urged students to maintain transparency throughout the research process, from developing research questions and collecting data to analyzing and reporting findings.
Prof. Wamala also cautioned the students on the responsible use of artificial intelligence in research.
He said although AI can assist researchers with activities such as language improvement, it does not remove the researcher’s responsibility for the final product.
Researchers, he said, must verify AI-generated information and remain accountable for inaccurate statements, misleading interpretations and incorrect references.
He further urged students involved in international and other research collaborations to establish clear agreements on roles, authorship, data ownership, access and intellectual property before commencing their research.
The Deputy University Librarian, Dr. Kizito Ongaya, meanwhile, urged the new scholars to make full use of Makerere’s library and information resources throughout their doctoral journey.
Dr. Ongaya said the University operates a hybrid library system combining physical and electronic resources, with more than 200,000 books, 45 e-journal databases and over 16,000 archival materials available to researchers.
He encouraged the students to participate in library training to learn how to access and effectively use electronic resources and to explore specialized libraries and information centers across the University’s colleges.
These include resources covering natural sciences, agriculture, veterinary medicine, health sciences, education and humanities, as well as museums, botanical gardens, specialized collections and other research facilities.
The newly admitted doctoral students were also addressed by Mr. Henry Nsubuga, the Manager Makerere University Counselling and Guidance Centre, Mr. George Mugabi Turyamureeba, the Deputy University Bursar and members of Makerere University Convocation.
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