General
Makerere shines at National recognitions
On the 9th October as Uganda turned 51, the Head of State President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni recognized outstanding individuals for their dedicated service to the country over the years. Amongst the many people who received gold medals in recognition, were Makerere University members of Staff and alumni, recognized for their service at different levels. One of them was Prof. Livingstone Luboobi, the former Vice Chancellor of Makerere University.
In an interview with the Public Relations Office, Prof. Luboobi had this to say, “I am happy that my country has recognized my service. I thank the Almighty God for having enabled me to carry out this service.” He however emphasized that he owed this recognition to many people and mentors in this University who made him what he is today.
“The late Prof. Ssenteza Kajubi was my first mentor when I was appointed Head of Department. He supported me to write projects for this University,” Prof. Luboobi reminisced. “Prof. Lutalo Bbosa who was the Dean Faculty of Science and later a Deputy Vice Chancellor also involved me in many things including training me to be a Chair of Committees,” he added. Through this mentorship, Prof. Luboobi learnt not to take rushed decisions because their effects and cost can be hard to reverse.
This experience was of great help later when he became the first elected Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, a position he held for five years. “I am satisfied. I have no complaints in this world. God has been so good to me. He has enabled me to do what I can and I have produced positive results especially in the academia,” he shared. “I have actually reproduced myself because some of my former students have risen to the rank of Professor,” he emphasized with a smile on his face.
Prof. Luboobi also had words of counsel for the entire University Community, “Each one of us in whatever position has a role to play in building for the future of this university. Please do not think you are always the best and that you direct in the best possible way,” advised Prof. Luboobi. He advised staff to do their part and allow others to do theirs; further adding that It is such a consolidated position that takes the University forward. Being one of great humility and courteousness Prof. Luboobi further shared, “There is a tendency to say ‘I am the best. I cannot be questioned.’ I do not buy into that. Even if one is a Vice Chancellor, he/she may not be as experienced as other Professors in other fields. The top-down approach is not good. I advocate for the horizontal approach because it builds a team,” he counseled. He further outlined that this approach should apply at all levels of this University, as this is the way strong institutions are built and sustained.
In relation to the awards, Prof. Luboobi proposed that some of his predecessors ought to be recognized for the good job they did. “One of them is Prof. Ssebuwufu who made a tremendous contribution too. I implore the organizers to look into this too. Secondly, if you are not known, you may not be recognized. The organizers should do good research so that people who have contributed tremendously are recognized even if they are not so known, for example the category of former Academic Registrars and many others,” he asserted.
Other former and current Chancellors/Vice Chancellors of Makerere University recognized include The Chancellor Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera, Former Vice Chancellors Prof. Joseph S.Lutwama (RIP) and Prof. William Ssenteza Kajubi (RIP), as well as Prof. Venansius Baryamureeba, the former Acting Vice Chancellor.
In the category of Academicians, Mrs. Christine Kiganda, the former Vice Chairperson of the Makerere University Council, Prof. Mahmood Mamdani, Director, Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR) and Prof. Samwiri Karugire (RIP) were also recognised.
Dr. Gilbert Gumoshabe, a member of Staff in the School of Languages, Literature and Communication, CHUSS, was recognized in the category of Local Uganda language dictionary writers/publishers. He spoke to the Public Relations Office. “I feel good that I have been recognized at the national level when I am still alive. It is a testimony that my contribution has made an impact to society. It gives me encouragement to work harder and make more contribution not only in academia but also to the general public.
In the category of Social Service, Prof. Moses Musaazi, famous for inventing the MakaPads was recognized as an innovator. (visit http://cedat.mak.ac.ug/research/maka-pads.html to read more about the pads). Dr. Alex Coutinho, Executive Director of the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) was also recognized as an Educationist.
Some of the other alumni/former members of Staff of Makerere University recognized include Prof. Livingstone Walusimbi, Prof. Paul Mugambi, Prof. Lutalo Bbosa, Prof. Badru Kateregga, Dr. Manuel Muranga and Ms. Alice Muhoozi among others.
Congratulations!
Article by Marion Alina, Public Relations Office
Education
Makerere University signs Memorandum of Understanding with International Rescue Committee to Advance Research, Innovation and Partnerships
Makerere University has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Rescue Committee to formalize undertakings in research, innovation & partnerships.
Signed in September 2025 by the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the Country Director, International Rescue Committee, Mr. Elijah Okeyo, the MoU provides a framework to implement research intensive programmes, promote innovative teaching and learning, internationalization, and contribute to societal transformation.
According to Mr. Okeyo, the MoU re-affirms Makerere University as the academic partner of the International Rescue Committee (IRC). “This MoU formalizes IRC’s working relationship with Makerere University. This framework empowers both institutions to tap into opportunities together. We believe in equal partnership. Makerere University commits to being our partner in research to contribute to evidence based humanitarian undertakings,” he said.
Under this collaboration, Makerere University and IRC will work on developing child-centered learning resources, innovative curricula, and policy-relevant research to enhance the quality of education in crisis-affected regions.
At Makerere University, the MoU brings on board, the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Research Centre.
To concretize the MoU, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga convened a partnership meeting on Friday 12th September 2025 involving a delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Dr. David Kabugo, the Deputy Director of Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and Ms. Ritah Namisango, the Principal Communication Officer.
The delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) consisted of the following: Mr. Elijah Okeyo-Country Director, Mr. Vincent Wanyama-Senior Program Development and Quality Coordinator, Mr. Richard Omasete-Policy and Advocacy PlayMatters, and Ms. Janet Nambuya-Grants and Partnerships Coordinator.
The MoU focuses on the following areas of interest: Early Childhood Development, joint research and capacity building in education, the plight of refugees and the host communities, humanitarian aid, as well as, evidence based research to inform the education policy.
In line with its mandate, IRC brings onboard, its unmatched expertise in helping children in crisis-affected areas. The MoU therefore positions both institutions to undertake a leading role in the protection of children and families through evidence based research, access to education, and humanitarian undertakings.
Dr. Kabugo, the Deputy Director MITER, noted that the MoU opens new opportunities for joint efforts in research, training, and policy. He said: “We are committed to co-designing practitioner research, engaging in professional development, and generating evidence to guide the education policy in Uganda and beyond.” Dr. Kabugo explained that this partnership builds on years of cooperation between CEES and IRC, especially in child-centered methods such as play-based learning.
Prof. Mugagga described the MOU as a practical framework that connects Makerere University’s research with IRC’s field experiences. He stated that the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) conducts programmes focused on the future of the young people through training and empowering students/teachers. He articulated that the College significantly impacts on the education sector through delivery of quality academic programmes and research under the School of Education, School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, and the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development.
“Our strongest synergy is education and early child-focused care,” Prof. Mugagga emphasized. He revealed that the collaboration presents CEES with a strong and reliable partner (IRC), which stands for protection and the well-being of children and families. “Through this MoU, both CEES and IRC, will significantly contribute to improving education for children, families, and communities impacted by conflict and crisis.”
Prof. Mugagga commended IRC for the earlier support and expertise extended to the College in the development of the early childhood centre, and working together to provide valuable input during the Ministry of Education and Sports’ consultative process that led to the Early Childhood development policy.
Reflecting on the increasing number of refugees enrolling for studies at Makerere University, Prof. Mugagga said: “ IRC has come at the right time. The College will tap into the IRC expertise to teach our staff and learners components in refugee education. They will equip our students and teachers with knowledge and skills in refugee education. Some of our students will cooperate with IRC to undertake research in refugee settlement and host communities.”
Prof. Mugagga implored both MITER and IRC to undertake research and develop modules on refugee education, parenting, re-tooling street children, integration of a health component into the curriculum, and management of truamatised students/learners who come from areas affected by war, conflict and crisis.
On the issue of play materials, Prof. Mugagga stressed that already made play materials derial creativing. “Both CEES and IRC should work towards a context that empowers children and learners to ignite their creative potential by developing home-made play materials,” he submitted.
About IRC
Stating a brief profile history about IRC, Mr. Okeyo explained that IRC is a global non-profit organisation that provides humanitarian aid and assistance to people affected by conflict and disaster. IRC has been active in Uganda since 1998, originally assisting displaced populations in Northern Uganda and later expanding its efforts to refugee settlements and urban areas.. Currently, IRC operates more than 35 health facilities in refugee settlements and runs a variety of programs in health, education, protection, and economic recovery. IRC also undertakes projects focusing on early childhood development, prevention of gender-based violence, and protection of refugees and families.
General
Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University encouraged to participate in philanthropy work
By Carol Kasujja Adii and Bernard Buteera
Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University have been encouraged to embrace the spirit of philanthropy as a vital foundation for fostering stronger and more resilient communities. This inspiring call to action took place during the 2025 Community Open Day at the Freedom Square on Saturday, September 6, 2025, where hundreds of Mastercard Scholars, Scholar-alumni, and partners of the Scholars Program gathered to initiate a fundraising drive for the signature Annual Scholars Day of Service.
The Annual Scholars Day of Service stands as a hallmark event through which the Scholars give back to the community in impactful and sustainable ways. During a keynote address titled “How Philanthropy Shapes Resilient Communities,” Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration, emphasised that while local philanthropy is not a new concept in Uganda, a more intentional mobilisation of this giving back power is necessary to address broader social challenges.
“Communities that mobilise their own resources—financial, human, and material—are empowered to take ownership of their development. Ownership naturally leads to sustainability, ensuring that solutions emerge from local knowledge, context, and values rather than being imposed from the outside. This approach is essential for effectively tackling our social challenges,” Prof. Ireeta stated.
In his remarks delivered by Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Ireeta highlighted the importance of nurturing the inherent power of local giving. He urged the celebration of current local philanthropic efforts, which can be initiated at the individual, religious, and community levels.
“To foster a culture of giving, we need to create platforms that promote structured, transparent, and impactful contributions,” he argued. “It’s crucial to strengthen our generosity, particularly among the youth, and cultivate a society where giving is valued as a core aspect of leadership and citizenship.”
Prof. Ireeta further noted, “The future of our Communities’ strength lies not in distant promises but in our own hands and collective actions. By fostering local philanthropy, we can build a society that is not only fairer but also more resilient and united.
In his welcoming remarks, Mr. John Osuna, Transition Lead for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, who spoke on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, expressed gratitude to the Scholars for their collaborative efforts in turning the idea of giving back into reality.
“Let us embody humility, kindness, and compassion through actionable philanthropy. By doing so, we can create lasting impacts, enhancing our reputation as a community that genuinely cares,” Mr. Osuna stated.
The Community Open Day was organised under the inspiring theme: “Nurturing Philanthropy for Resilient Communities,” paving the way for future initiatives that strengthen community bonds through collective generosity.
“We believe that through nurturing philanthropy for resilient communities, our communities shall be able to organise themselves to build resilience beyond what we shall give back,” Mr. Osuna explained.
The vibrant event saw Scholars and Scholar-alumni actively participating by bringing items for auction and buying tickets for the raffle draw as a means of mobilising resources for the construction of a ventilated pit latrine, renovation of two classroom blocks and providing tanks for harvesting clean water for Bwera Primary School in Kabale District.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Agnes Katumba, the Director of Katumba Estates, one of the long-standing partners of the Scholars Program at Makerere University, tasked the Scholars to embrace the heart of giving back without expecting something in return.
“I thank the Mastercard Foundation; they not only provide scholarships but also give back to the community. I have been able to grow because of them. For scholars, you do not have to wait to be wealthy to give back; every coin counts,” Mrs. Katumba said.
Katumba Estates Ltd contributed three million shillings to the Scholars Give Back project. Another long-standing partner, DFCU Bank, pledged over sh10 million towards the Scholars’ building project.
In her presentation, Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar-alumna, urged current Scholars to contribute to their communities in various ways, including mentorship and guiding young people.
“We are all here because someone chose to give. During my first year at Makerere, I contributed to some young man’s school fees back home in my community. The young man is now in his second year at Makerere. You don’t have to be wealthy to make an impact; be intentional in your giving, and you will witness the difference it makes. There is no greater fulfilment than helping someone in need,” Akwara stated.
The event was punctuated with a number of activities that ranged from auctioning items, raffle draws, exhibitions, quizzes and a lot of games and fun.
Carol Kasujja and Bernard Buteera form the communications team for the Scholars Programme at Makerere University.
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