General
Makerere-Uppsala on Track for Institutional Collaboration
On 29th November 2013, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Professor John Ddumba-Ssentamu hosted a delegation from Uppsala University, Sweden led by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Eva Akesson. The two institutions held a dialogue aimed at expanding the existing collaboration to university-wide institutional model that will encompass the undergraduate, master, postgraduate and research programmes.
This dialogue started in December 2012 when the Vice Chancellor, Professor John Ddumba-Ssentamu led a delegation that visited Uppsala University. Thus the return visit from Uppsala University symbolised the readiness by both institutions to take this collaboration to a whole new strategic direction.
Professor Ddumba-Ssentamu, welcomed Professor Eva Akesson to Makerere University together with her delegation comprising Professor Stefan Swartling Peterson, Professor of Global Health (Below); Dr Peter Sundin-Analytical Chemist and Head of the International Science Program (Right); and Ulrica Ouline- Regional Manager Africa/Asia at the International Office.
He informed the guests that Makerere University was established in 1922 and has continued to grow with over 30,000 state and privately-sponsored students pursuing a wide range of disciplines at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The Vice Chancellor noted that the University boasts of a highly qualified and dedicated staff focused on the realization of the Makerere University vision-To be the leading institution for academic excellence and innovations in Africa. He applauded the researchers at Makerere University for keeping the Makerere banner up, and as such, Makerere University was ranked the fourth best university in Africa in the July 2013 webometric university ranking. He also saluted the Government and People of Sweden for supporting the Makerere University Research Agenda under the MAK-Sida Phase III Bilateral Research Grant (2010-2014).
Cognizant of the internationalization agenda stipulated in the Makerere University Strategic Plan, Professor John Ddumba-Ssentamu informed the meeting comprising Members of Makerere University Management, Principals, Deans and Heads of Administrative Units that he looked forward to a fruitful discussion aimed at cementing the already existing collaborations and staff exchange programmes in the various academic disciplines at both universities.
“I am glad that most of the academicians gathered here have partnered with Uppsala University on different programmes. We have learnt vital lessons to help us strengthen the institutionalized approach we would like to embrace. Today’s discussion will also bring on board other disciplines/fields in this University. We look forward to collaboration between Uppsala University and the College of Business and Management Sciences as well as the School of Law,” said Professor Ddumba-Ssentamu.
The Vice Chancellor Uppsala University, Professor Eva Akesson (Pictured Below Left showing off her gift from VC Prof. J. Ddumba-Ssentamu) said both universities shared a lot- the vision of 
being the best university and the value of academic excellence. Established in 1477, Uppsala University is the First University in Sweden. It is a comprehensive university, one of the top 100 in the world, has a student population of 40,000 and runs an international Science Programme with universities in the world.
“Uppsala and Makerere have a collaboration that goes way back in different disciplines. We can take another step to deepen our relationships. We do hope that today will formalize the steps for a more comprehensive collaboration between Makerere University and Uppsala University that will lead to signing a Memorandum of Understanding. If we ask for partnership with Uppsala University on the different programmes, we hope that Makerere University will partner with us,” she said.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor John Ddumba-Ssentamu then opened the floor for discussion:
Mr. Goddy Muhumuza, Senior Legal Officer: I was at Uppsala for a month’s training on property Rights. I loved the visit to your veterinary farm. It was a good experience at Uppsala.
Dr. John Mango, Deputy Principal, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) (Below Left): CoNAS has since the year 2000 been collaborating with Uppsala University in the areas of pesticides, bio-chemistry. This is outside the MAK-Sida collaboration. Our collaboration has yielded successes in the Department of Mathematics and the International Science Programme at Uppsala University.
Professor David Kabasa, Principal, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-Security (CoVAB) (Above Centre): This collaboration should focus on the transformation of society with a multi-disciplinary approach from universities, fields, community, public and private partners among others. Through this problem solving approach, we can work together to transform society in Uganda and the region.
Dr. Paul Muyinda Birevu, Head, Department of Open and Distance Learning, College of Education and External Studies (CEES) (Above Right) advocated for collaboration between both universities, as a means of strengthening the capacity on e-learning and pedagogy.
Dr. Vincent Ssembatya, Director, Quality Assurance (Left): The collaboration of the Directorate of Quality Assurance with Uppsala University has greatly informed curriculum development. We have received immense technical support from Dr. Asa Kettis, Chief Quality Promotion Officer, Quality and Evaluation Unit, Uppsala University
Ms Mary Tizikara, Director-Human Resources advised that in addition to training academic staff, the collaboration should also cater for other categories of staff. She emphasized the need for capacity building for professional courses, which greatly impact on service delivery.
Mr. David Kahundha-Muhwezi, the University Secretary was optimistic that through this collaboration, both institutions will learn from each other and benchmark good governance practices in higher education.
Dr. Hisali Eria, Ag. Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) (Pictured Right): Reiterated the Vice Chancellor’s earlier call that in the new phase of collaboration should also include business, economics and management academic fields.
Professor Bernard Bashaaha, Principal, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) (Pictured Left): Appreciating the fact that Uppsala has a passion for physical sciences, he sought further information on the Uppsala’s partnership with the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU).
In her response, Prof. Akesson noted that the two institutions have a longstanding close-knit working relationship and would look forward to incorporating agricultural sciences in the upcoming collaboration with Makerere.
Professor Celestino Obua: Deputy Principal, College of Health Sciences (CHS) (Pictured Right): In September 2013, I led a delegation from Makerere University to Uppsala on a staff and student exchange programme. Every year, we have two students and two staff members respectively . It has been a very rich experience. The students are incorporated into the programme, they are graded and marks are fed into the students’ performance. We have thus observed the need for multidisciplinarity research in universities to solve the problems that affect humanity as well as development. I belive this visit will further cement the existing collaboration between both instititions.
Dr. Damalie Naggita-Musoke, Dean, School of Law (Pictured Above Left): We need a strong collaboration with Uppsala. I would like to know how the School of Law through her outreach programmes in the Human Rights and Peace Centre (HURIPEC) can further champion human rights, democratization and property rights.
In her response, the Vice Chancellor, Uppsala University said: We have a Department of Peace and Conflict Research at Uppsala University and we shall explore this potential.
The two Vice Chancellors then exchanged Souvenirs as a token of rekindling the collaboration spirit.
Story by: Ritah Namisango, Public Relations Office
Photos by: Makerere Public Relations Office
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General
From Campus to Career: Makerere Advancement Office, 91st Guild and the DFCU Foundation Equip Students with Financial and Employability Skills
On 4th December, 2025, over 200 final-year students gathered at the School of Pharmacy Auditorium for the highly engaging Career & Financial Literacy Symposium, hosted by the 91st Students’ Guild, in partnership with the Makerere Advancement Office and the DFCU Foundation.
The symposium centred on student advancement through strategic partnership, convening students, administrators and development partners for a practical conversation on career readiness, financial literacy, employability, and personal development.
Advancement Through Partnerships
Speaking on behalf of the Makerere Advancement Office, Mr Awel Uwihanganye, Chief Advancement Officer, underscored the importance of partnerships such as the one with DFCU Foundation. He highlighted their importance in equipping students with marketplace skills and opportunities vital for individual growth after University.
He reflected on the university journey as a formative period for ideas, innovation, and lifelong relationships, noting that:
“University is where impressions are made, and future networks are born. The friendships, character, and collaborations you develop here become foundations for careers, enterprises and leadership later in life.”
Mr. Uwihanganye encouraged students to embrace entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation, arguing that the emerging workforce is driven by technology, multi-tasking ability and idea generation rather than traditional single-path employment. He challenged students to build businesses, use digital platforms productively, and regard employment as only one income stream, not the only one.
The Student Perspective — Discipline, Skills and Trust
Speaking on student growth and personal development, Dr. Rodney Rugyema, Deputy Dean of Students, highlighted the realities facing new graduates, especially those entering the job market for the first time. With humour and honesty, he urged students to approach growth intentionally and responsibly.
He called for delayed gratification, financial discipline and long-term decision-making, reminding students that wealth is built, not wished for. He emphasised the importance of skills beyond academic papers, stating that students must be equipped to create value, adapt, learn continuously, and gain competence relevant to modern work demands.
Dr. Rugyema underscored that trust, integrity and reliability remain the most non-negotiable pillars of professional advancement.
“Let people trust you enough to lend you an opportunity. Be a person who delivers. Your reputation is currency; it travels to rooms you are not in.” He noted
Financial Literacy for the Next Generation
The keynote training session was delivered by Mr. Simon Omara, Business Advisor representing the DFCU Foundation, who walked students through a highly practical presentation on financial planning, savings culture, credit management, record-keeping, career positioning and entrepreneurship.
With more than 10,000 graduates annually and less than 35% securing employment within the first year, Mr. Omara challenged students to practice financial and career ownership early. His presentation explored:
Key Competencies Students Must Build
- Financial management with a focus on budgeting, saving, and investing early
- Career readiness, CV development, interview skills, and personal branding
- Entrepreneurship and income diversification
- Record keeping and credit management
- Professional conduct and workplace preparation
He reminded students that the future belongs to those who are financially literate, skilled, trusted and entrepreneurial. Through relatable examples and actionable frameworks such as the 70–20–10 rule, the 7-second CV scan, and the 90-day post-graduation growth plan, Mr. Omara equipped participants with practical knowledge they could act upon immediately.
Why This Symposium Matters
This event stands as a testament to the power of partnership-driven student advancement, a core mandate of the Makerere Advancement Office. By convening industry partners like DFCU Foundation, the University continues to ensure that students graduate not only with knowledge, but with tools and readiness for opportunity.
The symposium strengthened linkages between academia and the labour market, expanded students’ perspective on financial independence, and emphasised the value of entrepreneurship, networks and character in shaping future leadership
The Makerere Advancement Office remains committed to facilitating opportunities that empower students to thrive beyond the gates of the University, through partnerships, mentorship, capacity-building, and exposure to real-world skillsets.
“ A degree alone is no longer enough. With partnership, preparation and purpose, our students can build futures anchored in knowledge, opportunity and resilience.” Mr Awel Uwihanganye noted during his remarks.
Caroline Kainomugisha is the Communications Officer, Makerere Advancement Office
Makerere University on 3rd December, 2025 hosted the Tumusiime Mutebile Annual Lecture, a tradition established to honour the life and legacy of the late Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile, an outstanding alumnus and former Governor of the Bank of Uganda who passed away in 2022. The lecture not only reflects on his remarkable contribution to Uganda’s economic leadership, but also highlights how innovation, resilience, and intergenerational vision can shape Africa’s future.
This year’s edition was anchored on three key pillars—intergenerational leadership, economic resilience, and the power of innovation—themes that defined Prof. Mutebile’s career and continue to influence national development. Through this annual series, the University upholds his memory while also celebrating other African leaders whose work has left a lasting mark on the continent, using their legacies to inspire thoughtful dialogue, policy reflection, and the next generation of transformative thinkers.
Celebrating an Enduring Legacy
In her remarks, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sarah Ssali, reflected on Prof. Mutebile’s lifelong commitment to excellence, integrity, and the transformative power of education. She highlighted his journey from a student leader at Makerere to one of the country’s most influential economic thinkers, noting how his leadership in monetary policy, fiscal reform, and economic stabilization reshaped Uganda’s economic trajectory.
Prof. Ssali emphasized that this public lecture series not only honours Mutebile’s legacy but also bridges academia and practice—challenging students, scholars, and national leaders to pursue knowledge that serves the public good. She expressed gratitude to the Bank of Uganda under Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego, dfcu Bank, the GRO Foundation, the Mutebile family, and the Advancement Office for their continued support in sustaining a platform that nurtures economic thought leadership and inspires future generations.
Rt. Hon. Emeritus Amama Mbabazi, a lifelong friend and contemporary of the late Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile, delivered a deeply personal reflection during the lecture. He recalled their shared beginnings as young student leaders at Makerere, their early political activism, and the historical moments that shaped both their lives and the nation. Speaking as both confidant and colleague, he emphasized Mutebile’s disciplined approach to economic policy, his unwavering belief in strong, accountable institutions, and his commitment to evidence-based, long-term decision making. Mbabazi outlined three pillars of Mutebile’s legacy—policy integrity, institutional strength, and leadership that prepares the next generation—values he affirmed are central to the work of the Tumusiime Foundation, which he now chairs.
He underscored the critical role of the private sector in Africa’s transformation, stressing the need for productivity-driven economies, skilled young people, and policy ecosystems that encourage innovation. He further called for intergenerational leadership that deliberately transfers knowledge, builds enduring institutions, and creates real opportunities for young Africans to lead. In closing, he urged academia, policymakers, and industry to work in partnership, noting that Africa’s progress depends on disciplined leadership, investment in human capital, and a shared commitment to building a future stronger than the present.
Fiscal Policies that have stood the test of time
The Governor of the Bank of Uganda, Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego, honored the late Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile with a heartfelt tribute, praising him as “a great tree whose roots ran deep beneath the soil of this nation, nourishing all who followed.” He noted that Uganda continues to benefit from the “shade” of the policies Mutebile planted during his 21-year tenure—policies that stabilized the economy, strengthened institutions, and protected the financial system through multiple crises. He highlighted Mutebile’s role in restoring price stability through cash budgeting, bringing inflation down from triple digits to single digits, guiding the country through the 2008 global financial crisis with disciplined monetary policy, and maintaining public trust during the 2011 inflation spike through clear and transparent communication.
Dr. Atingi-Ego also credited him for steering Uganda safely through the COVID-19 pandemic by introducing liquidity support for banks, credit relief for borrowers, and targeted foreign exchange interventions. Reflecting on Mutebile’s long-term impact, the Governor remarked, “These are the ideas he planted—he never lived to enjoy the shade of the tree, but today, the country rests under it.” He further celebrated Mutebile’s commitment to innovation, citing the 2016 amendments to the Financial Institutions Act that unlocked agency banking, bancassurance, and Islamic banking—reforms that today anchor Uganda’s impressive financial inclusion gains.
Intergenerational Leadership blends agility and emotional intelligence
Eng. Dr. F. F. Tusubira delivered a compelling and deeply reflective keynote, grounding the theme “Intergenerational Leadership, Economic Resilience and the Power of Innovation” in both history and lived institutional experience. He expressed serious concern that although Africa is the world’s youngest continent—with over 65% of its population below 35—its systems continue to sideline young people from leadership and national decision-making, even as they are repeatedly called “leaders of tomorrow.” He argued that this generational exclusion is not merely unfair but dangerous, warning that nations cannot secure economic resilience while locking out the very demographic best equipped to navigate a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world.
Drawing on African proverbs, global case studies, and personal anecdotes from Makerere and national institutions, he demonstrated how younger generations bring idealism, agility, innovation, and risk-taking—qualities essential for competitiveness—while older generations contribute emotional intelligence, institutional memory and a heightened sense of danger. He emphasized that progress requires blending these strengths through deliberate structures: fair representation of youth in boards and executive spaces, shared decision-making, reverse mentorship, and an institutional culture that values every generational perspective.
Dr. Tusubira also highlighted the urgent need for education reform, criticizing the continent’s entrenched “learning to pass exams” culture and calling for systems that cultivate creativity, problem-solving, and technical capability. He cautioned that without investing in human capital, digital literacy, and inclusive innovation ecosystems, Africa risks losing the very foundation of future competitiveness. His message was clear and powerful: intergenerational leadership is not optional—it is a survival strategy for institutions, businesses, and nations, especially in an era where, as he quoted, “it is not the strongest who survive, but those most responsive to change.”
The lecture was further enriched by an engaging panel discussion, which was moderated by Prof. Edward Bbaale, the Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences. He opened the discussion by deliberately centering today’s students and emerging leaders, framing the session as an intellectual reflection on the life, values and legacy of the late Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile. He positioned the lecture’s theme — Shaping Africa’s Future: Intergenerational Leadership, Economic Resilience and the Power of Innovation — as urgent and practical, and introduced a cross-disciplinary panel whose expertise mirrors that urgency: Eng. Dr. F. F. Tusubira, Mr. Charles Mudiwa the Managing Director Dfcu Bank, and Prof. Faisal Buyinza the Ag. Dean, School of Economics.
Prof. Bbaale’s moderation enabled panelists to offer guidance on structural and cultural barriers to youth inclusion, the role of institutions in building resilience, and how academia, industry and policy can work together to turn innovation into jobs and scalable solutions — all the while reserving time for direct audience engagement and practical policy takeaways. Collectively, the panelists urged dismantling age-biased barriers and credential rigidities, creating new entry points and “tables” for youth leadership, scaling finance and training for startups and agribusiness, reforming pedagogy to prioritise skills and creativity, and deepening public-private-academic partnerships so innovation becomes inclusive growth rather than isolated experimentation.
The Family’s heartfelt appreciation
Mrs. Betty Tumusiime-Mutebile delivered heartfelt closing remarks, offering gratitude on behalf of the family and the Tumusiime-Mutebile Foundation. Speaking with deep emotion, she reflected on the late Professor’s character—his honesty, humility, hard work, and unwavering commitment to service above self. She thanked Makerere University, the Bank of Uganda, the Foundation’s leadership, and the many friends and colleagues who have continued to uphold his legacy, noting that although nearly four years have passed since his departure, his memory remains vivid and powerful for the family.
She recalled his devotion to both his public duty and his home, sharing personal stories of his leadership within the family and his steadfast faith that shaped their daily lives. Mrs. Tumusiime-Mutebile also highlighted the Foundation’s ongoing work in youth skilling, ethical governance, and private-sector development—initiatives rooted in his own vision. She concluded by inviting continued partnership to sustain the legacy he built, and led the gathering in singing his favourite chorus, a tender tribute to a man whose influence, she said, endures through the lives he touched.
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