Humanities & Social Sciences
Of Oracy, Orature, Textology and Clapping Chairs
The organizers of the Public Dialogue on Literature had promised that the event would give a rare and valuable platform to two important, respected and celebrated East African scholars with long and glorious careers in the world of letters to share with the public. This message seems to have singularly struck home with the audience for by 2:00pm on Friday 4th April 2014; almost every seat in the Main Hall, Makerere University had already been taken up. And just like a seasoned stage-manager, the man tasked with keeping the audience guessing, Dr. Danson Kahyana kept engaging them, all the while checking to see that all was set for the day’s event until finally, in they walked; the larger than life figures whose literary reputation preceded their every step, led by the Principal College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Professor Edward Kirumira.
To the casual observer whose judgment is solely based appearance, they looked harmless, too normal, too humble and overly courteous as they made rounds shaking hands with as many old friends as they could reach. Could these surely be the men of whom all those moving tales and fables had been penned? Could these two gentlemen we were even a little hesitant to take up their places at the high table truly be the famous duo of Professor Arthur Gakwandi and Mwalimu Austin Bukenya?
All this doubt were instantly dispatched the moment Dr. Susan Kiguli, Head of the Literature Department, CHUSS took to the podium and began sharing some decadal anecdotes. Of a Scholar in the 1970s; Professor Ali Mazrui, whose presentations on political science would leave even the chairs in the Main Hall clapping; of two Professors – one a fire-spiting socialist by the name of Mahmood Mamdani and another a consuming capitalist by the name of Apolo Nsibambi who in the 1980s held the Makerere audiences at ransom with their debates; and of a Professor by the name of Okot p’Bitek who would awaken all sleeping interest by dancing atop tables and playing his nanga (harp). By this time, the audience that was literally eating out of her palm was further spellbound by her narrations on discovering the life form of these legends, on joining Makerere as an undergraduate student.
“Professor Wangusa, who quoted T.S. Eliot like he was his next of kin…Professor Rubadiri, who was under the impression that all 150 students attending his class were registered for it, only to discover at the time of coursework that 100 of those had come to hear him pour forth poetry…” said Dr. Kiguli, further captivating her audience. She paid tribute to the day’s speakers for “coming back home” and to the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) for sponsoring the day’s Public Dialogue.
Dr. Aaron Mushengyezi, the Dean, School of Languages, Literature and Communication, CHUSS then welcomed the academic twins; in reference to both of the Speakers who recently turned 70, to Makerere. He then paid personal tributes to Prof. Arthur Gakwandi who in 1992 signed his academic life certificate by endorsing his registration for a “forbidden” combination of subjects on the BA programme and to Mwalimu Austin Bukenya for the mentorship he accorded him during his early days as an academic staff. “The values that these two eminent Professors exhibited to me were their humility and simplicity [which values are unmistakable] even as you look at them today” he added.
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is the cradle of the Arts in Makerere University. As such, the Principal, Prof. Edward Kirumira could not hold back his pride as he warmly welcomed back his own. “We appreciate the time that our two Speakers are putting aside to come back and do what they are supposed to do; to mentor us and tell us that before we get to their age, we must continue to share our knowledge,” said Prof. Kirumira.
He encouraged the audience to borrow a leaf from the day’s Speakers by reflecting upon how they had used their respective lives and opportunities to make a lasting impression on society. Prof. Kirumira then challenged the staff to always ensure that they have mentored their younger colleagues to carry on with the great work when that time to retire finally comes knocking.
With the day’s formalities complete, it was now time for the Chairperson to take the Public Dialogue to the next level. This was the moment that the audience had eagerly anticipated all day and it was up to Prof. Abasi Kiyimba to deliver. His choice to initiate by first of all reminding everyone of the day’s topic: Literature and the Crisis in the Humanities was simple but artful. He then proceeded to impress it upon the audience that they each had a role to play beyond the day’s dialogue in as far as coming up with a solution to the crisis. Nevertheless as the Deputy Principal, CHUSS in an era where the voice of Humanities is being drowned out by the Sciences debate, he took this opportunity to make his case, “Occasions like these are our opportunity to demonstrate that we have ideas that can build this country,” and turning to the day’s Speakers, he dropped the gauntlet “speak about your vision of society and the role of literature.”
First up was Professor Arthur Gakwandi who spoke in a moderate but deliberate tone, true to his diplomatic background. After thanking the organizers for the great honour and opportunity to speak to the public, he quickly drew first blood with his statement, “The Humanities are not in a crisis.
“With ears in the audience peaking higher and increased activity as sitting positions were readjusted, Prof. Gakwandi went on to defend his stance by noting that crises speak of danger that comes with an element of surprise leaving the parties only a short time to decide on a course of action. He further noted that since the present state of affairs has been with us for well over a decade, the crisis attribute was therefore unjustifiable. He further backed this up with the existence of books on the subject like Crisis in the Humanities by J.H. Plumb first published in 1964, almost 50 years ago.
“Humanities are not in a crisis, they are facing challenges. They have faced challenges before and they should stand up and look forward with confidence because the contribution to society that they make is likely to remain important,” emphasized Prof. Gakwandi. He then went on to quote his late Professor of Literature, David Cook’s inaugural public lecture in the Main Hall in 1971
“An advanced study of Literature equips a student to think widely, deeply and flexibly on all human affairs and means of expression and is therefore an appropriate intellectual basis for professional men and women in many fields of public service”
Reflecting on the works of Matthew Arnold a British poet and cultural critic, Prof. Gakwandi noted that Literature had a role to play as a vital ingredient in society “Literature embodies values, interprets experience and makes the mind more imaginative, and therefore is valuable not only for those who study it but also for those who read it for pleasure… even if you are a scientist, you can share something from literature by reading and it will save you from some more vulgar forms of entertainment,” he counseled.
A fresh retiree from Makerere University, Prof. Gakwandi appreciated the important foundation that his background in Literature training laid for his 15 years of Diplomatic service. He also noted that he had seen many of his former students taken on roles of responsibility in many other fields such as politics and the media, especially as Chief Editors, “many of these people have risen to the top thus vindicating their Education in Literature at Makerere,” he substantiated.
As he concluded his submission, Prof. Gakwandi however warned that the Teachers of Literature ought to adapt their styles to the changing times and circumstances in our society, “I am especially thinking about the influence of bad journalism, facebook, twitter and social media on the way we speak and write.” Prof. Gakwandi also warned on the tendency of compartmentalizing the various disciplines in the Arts to the exclusion of others, “We need to see more interdisciplinarity because whether you study History or Political Science or Literature, you are studying the same society from different perspectives,” further adding that “I think we ought to borrow a little more from each other, teachers of language should use literary text to teach language and Lecturers in Literature should pay more attention to Language Communication skills and courses should be offered across the boundaries of these disciplines and that is when we shall move forward in promoting the values of the Humanities,” said Prof. Gakwandi in ending.
Next up was Mwalimu Austin Bukenya, a leading authority on Oracy and African Orature who straight away paid tribute to his training at the University of Dar-es-salaam by addressing the gathering in Kiswahili. He then commended the audience for “voting with their feet for Literature” by turning up in overwhelming numbers. Mwalimu Bukenya proposed that the Public Dialogue be dedicated to a literary colleague Prof. Christopher Lukorito Wanjala who was celebrating his 70th birthday on that day. He further emphasized that although the Public Dialogue had been organized as a way of bidding the Professors farewell, he preferred that the Swahili ni kwaheri ya kuonana (until the next time) reference be used instead of the academic parlance reference of valedictory lectures.
In a bid put an end to the “backward and primitive way of referring to Literature as quoting Shakespeare to one another”, Professor Bukenya or Mwalimu is he’s fondly known in the literary circles put forth four definitions of Literature as: i) a form of artistic communication using language as its medium, the artistic bit fusing observation, imagination and precise distinctive expression – literature is iconic, it calls attention to itself; ii) texts – anything that is written – literate e.g. Mathematical literature. There also exist oral/orate/unwritten texts that come from oracy (the skill of the spoken word) and orature (the creativity of the spoken word); iii) in broader modern literature – anything that signifies e.g. the clothes one wears and their implication hence
Mwalimu however sought to clearly point out that by the Humanities being in a crisis; they are in a state of concern, “That crisis is a false positing of Arts versus Sciences. That has created a state of crisis. Can we really say it is either Arts or Sciences?” pondered Prof. Bukenya. He further noted that the policy makers have over the years been gradually diminishing almost to negligible levels the sponsorship of students in the arts, “It is not only the funding that is going down but also the public pronouncements on the same,” Prof. Bukenya further added terms like appropriate dressing and iv) concerned with the studying of all texts in their signifying modes which pertains to textology (using texts as communicating systems to uncover and describe grammar) and one of Mwalimu’s coining of the day testectics (the mechanics of the word/text)
He noted that this has driven the teachers of the Arts so hard against the wall that even the mode of teaching has changed. “People seem to be so thoroughly concerned with just learning things and writing exams that our effectiveness has become questionable, especially in the areas of language and literature,” lamented Mwalimu. He noted that this teaching has led to students being exam-oriented which leads to conclusions like our graduates are unemployable.
Prof. Bukenya stressed the need to continue prioritizing the Humanities as they are those activities and studies that are primarily concerned with human relationships. “What I propose is that we should have both Sciences and Humanities. This comes from a theory in Literature – to deconstruct which does not seek to destroy but instead break up and rearrange,” he elaborated, further adding that “We cannot afford to have a person today who is purely a Humanist without a Science competence or else we are developing an articulate caveman. Equally importantly, we cannot have a Scientist who is purely a whiz in chemical formulae without a human side otherwise he will be just a robot.”
He further reiterated the notion that Literature is the most humane of the humanities because it deals with human relationships and as such can used to best illustrate their importance. Mwalimu sought to give the audience a deeper appreciation of his field by speaking about Literature as phatic communion as is the reference in advanced literary theory. This communion he said goes beyond simply making a connection through speech but going further to establish and maintain a relationship. “When someone says how are you or wasuze otya, it is not because they want you to describe exactly what bed you slept in but they are establishing a relationship and trying to maintain that relationship,” elaborated Prof. Bukenya.
He then delved into other branches of Literature like para-literature pertaining to films and songs further noting that, “People cannot do without these, and you have to ask yourself why? This all points to the phatic communion that makes us empathise and symphatise with our fellow human beings,” he explained. As a demonstration of phatic communion, Mwalimu then recited his Swahili translation of The Lonely Soul a poem written by a West African poet. He then sought to further dispel the unjustified generalizations that people in the Humanities do not create jobs.
Treading ever so lightly, Mwalimu then gave the Faith Industry; the fastest growing industry in the country today as a valid example, “I cannot say everyday but we can be sure that every week a new Church is coming up in Uganda. You cannot say that Churches are not job creators. Wherever you have a Church, you have a Pastor, Assistant Pastor, Choir Members, Counsellors, Intercessors and so on… the question we then ask is if you deny a person who seeks to study Religious Study sponsorship, who is going to professionally run those Churches? How many have got trained scriptural scholars, theologians and so on? No wonder we keep saying if we have so many Churches, why then do we have so many thieves or so much corruption? Is it because the Churches are not run by professionally competent people? We could do the same in Music Dance and Drama, how many professionals do we have?” Mwalimu questioned as the audience struggled to contain themselves.
He also touched on the distorted expectation of the university, noting that “A University is supposed to educate people. It is not a technical school. This is the mistake we make when we swallow up our polytechnics and make them universities,” lamented Prof. Bukenya as the audience stomped their feet. “People who want to acquire technical skills should go to technical institutions not universities. The university is a training place for thinking people, creative people, and imaginative people and maybe we should think of restructuring our education system to make our first degree more generalized to create an educated person who can then go on to technical training. This is just what we are trying to do when we train Literature. We have various specific theories of Textology where we use the speech act theory which consists of Elocution – what we utter, Illocution – what we intend and Perlocution – what you achieve. The literature person is a trained individual who can perform many duties and the demand is there,” elucidated Prof. Bukenya.
He thanked the audience for their patience and was confident that this event was only just the beginning “I am sure that we are only initiating the dialogue and I hope that it will continue” he summed up.As he brought his presentation to a close Mwalimu cautioned the audience to guard against the sinister intentions of international sponsors who are urging Governments to train Scientists and forget the Arts, “Because they know they can create their hordes of scientists and recolonise us, what we call ukoloni mamboleo [neocolonialism] because those people that go [solely] into technical things will have the ‘technical know-who’ but lack the ‘technical know-why’ to ask provocative questions,” preached Mwalimu. “It is only the political scientist who is going to ask those questions and it is not in their interest to cater for our culture, for critical people who will ask questions and we’ll be a damned generations which cannot ask questions and we need to guard against that,” added Mwalimu.
The debate then shifted to the floor where members of the audience were given the chance to ask related questions that ranged from the inspiration behind some of the Speakers’ publications to why Literature was glaringly absent from the modern day homes in all its forms. In their responses the Speakers challenged the audience to derive their own meanings from the publications as is the true spirit of literature, “Trust the tale, not the artist and books don’t have meaning save for the meaning you derive out of them” were some of the words of wisdom dispensed by both Speakers. They also challenged the audience to reintroduce literature in all its forms back into their homes, “Wherever there is a bottle of beer, there should be a bookcase, and we should make books a part of our lives.”
In his closing remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Dr. Ernest Okello Ogwang, himself an Associate Professor of Literature and accomplished publisher, profusely thanked the Day’s Speakers Prof. Bukenya, Prof. Gakwandi as well as the session Chairman Prof. Kiyimba for ably illustrating that literary culture has played and will continue to play a prominent role in shaping the East African region. He also thanked his three aforementioned mentors for the wonderful set of words of wisdom that were delivered in the true spirit of orature.
He however challenged the audience to ride on the spark that the dialogue had ignited, “There is some kind of crisis in the Humanities but it must not be defined for us by others. What is our role in this crisis? Can we reconfigure it for the good of the younger people?” the DVC-AA asked the audience, before summarily adding “I think so.”
In moving a vote of thanks to the day’s speakers and indeed to everyone present, Sr. Dr. Dominic Dipio, Associate Professor of Literature, CHUSS acknowledged the respective contributions to the success of the Literature Public Dialogue by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Dr. Ernest Okello Ogwang, the Principal CHUSS, Prof. Edward Kirumira, the Dean School of Languages Literature and Communication, Dr. Aaron Mushengyezi, the Head, Literature Department, Dr. Susan Kiguli as well as all members of the organizing committee. She further appreciated that the Humanities were steadily coming to the fore of the University leadership and hoped that this would help reinforce their importance to society. Sr. Dr. Dipio then commended the Speakers Prof. Arthur Gakwandi and Mwalimu Austin Bukenya for elaborately handling the day’s topic and continuing to keep the Literature torch aflame through their continued and mentorship and involvement in the literary circles.
Assoc. Prof. Okello Ogwang then took this opportunity to recognize other legendary names in the literary circles like Prof. Ruth Mukama and Prof. Theo Luzuka and acknowledge their respective contributions to mentoring writers in the Department of Literature, Makerere University and beyond.
Article and Pictures by Public Relations Office
Special thanks to @nyanaKakoma
Makerere University staff have been urged to embrace collaboration, accountability, and capacity building as key strategies for winning grants under the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (RIF). Speaking on the second day of the CHUSS CERTL International Conference at Fairway Hotel on 15th November 2024, Prof. Fred Masagazi-Masaazi, Chair of the Mak RIF Grants Management Committee, emphasized the need to eliminate the “Pekeyangu” culture—where researchers work individually—and instead foster teamwork and partnerships.
Prof. Masagazi encouraged staff to form inter-college and institutional research teams, as well as collaborate with national public and private organizations in crafting proposals. He underscored the value of drawing diverse expertise from different sectors to enhance competitiveness and innovation. “Working alone must stop. Let’s prioritize teamwork and include diverse expertise in grant writing,” he said, adding that partnerships with external stakeholders, including government institutions and private sector players, were critical to winning grants.
In his presentation titled Makerere Research and Innovation Fund: Opportunities and Challenges in the 21st Century, Prof. Masagazi highlighted the importance of timely accountability for disbursed funds. He warned that management would blacklist staff members who failed to provide proper accountability.
Addressing the performance of colleges in grant proposal submissions, Prof. Masagazi observed that humanities-based disciplines were underperforming compared to other colleges, such as the College of Health Sciences and Makerere University Business School. He called on the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) to actively participate in the ongoing sixth call for proposals, set to close in a few weeks, urging them to leverage their potential and submit competitive projects.
The RIF committee, he said, plans to provide special consideration for staff who have applied unsuccessfully for grants in the past, giving them an additional opportunity to benefit from funding.
Prof. Masagazi commended CHUSS for organizing forums to discuss research, teaching, and learning. He reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to supporting such initiatives, particularly those that promote impactful research and broaden collaborations with stakeholders from the Global North and South. He also encouraged staff to adopt a multidisciplinary approach to research and proposal development, stating that working with diverse stakeholders enhances the communication of research findings to broader audiences.
Reflecting on Makerere University’s seven-year journey in establishing RIF, Prof. Masagazi lauded the Ugandan government for its commitment to funding high-quality research aimed at transforming lives. RIF currently operates with a budget of UGX 30 billion, and Prof. Masagazi expressed hope that CHUSS could secure a significant portion of this funding for its projects.
He noted that some of the most impactful RIF-funded projects have emerged from CHUSS, including Prof. Dominic Dipio’s research on Uganda’s cultural heritage, which garnered significant global attention, and Dr. Esuruk Robert’s study on cross-border conflicts and peacebuilding in Uganda. Additionally, Prof. Edith Natukunda developed teaching resources that have transformed French language education in Ugandan schools, while other projects have advanced the digitalization of academic programs and supported commercialization of innovations.
Prof. Masagazi outlined several strategies for maximizing RIF’s impact, including mobilizing alternative funding sources from international donors and local partners. He revealed plans to create a dedicated funding slot for individuals who have applied unsuccessfully multiple times, ensuring greater inclusivity and opportunities for all researchers. However, he emphasized that maintaining high-quality proposals would remain a priority.
The professor called on CHUSS to leverage its expertise in areas such as tourism, culture, linguistics, and indigenous knowledge to influence national policy and contribute to socio-economic transformation. He encouraged research that integrates traditional knowledge with contemporary practices, fosters cultural development, and explores new frontiers in entertainment, sports, and linguistics.
Prof. Masagazi also addressed the transparency and effective proposal evaluation and consistencies in scoring by reviewers urging staff to strengthen their research capacity to meet competitive standards. He called on senior academics to mentor junior colleagues and include them in research teams, emphasizing the need to eliminate biases against humanities research and ensure equal opportunities across disciplines.
In closing, Prof. Masagazi reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to supporting research efforts across Makerere University. “Accountability, collaboration, and capacity building are crucial. Let us build strong research teams, submit timely proposals, and deliver transformative research for the benefit of Uganda and beyond,” he said.
The Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund, established in 2019, aims to produce high-quality research aligned with national development priorities. The sixth call for proposals remains open, presenting an opportunity for researchers to secure funding and contribute to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.
Humanities & Social Sciences
Council Chair Calls for Integration of CERTL Initiatives into University Processes
The Chairperson of Makerere University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, has called for the university-wide standardization of CERTL initiatives to strengthen its research-led transformation. Mrs. Magara made this call while presiding over the opening ceremony of the 2024 CHUSS Centre of Excellence in Research, Teaching, and Learning (CERTL) International Conference on November 14, 2024, at Fairway Hotel in Kampala.
The conference, under the theme, “Leveraging Centers of Excellence to enhance Makerere University‘s teaching, research, and learning landscape”, brought together academics, project leaders, keynote speakers, and panelists. Mrs. Magara acknowledged the crucial role of partners like the Mellon Foundation and Gerda Henkel Foundation in supporting the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) and advancing the university’s strategic objectives. The College received a $800,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation to support the establishment of CERTL, aiming to strengthen research, teaching, and learning in the Humanities and Humanistic Social Sciences at Makerere University.
Launched on September 16, 2020, CERTL has provided Makerere University faculty with opportunities to enhance their research, teaching, and learning practices. It has fostered renewal and pedagogical growth among senior faculty, created space for peer debates on academic practices, and supported curriculum design and pedagogical innovations within the college.
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Magara highlighted Makerere’s 2020-2030 Strategic Plan, emphasizing the transition from a teaching-focused to a research-led institution. She identified four key pillars: deepening research, building industry partnerships, fostering an innovative academic environment, and ensuring inclusive governance. She noted that CERTL’s contributions in research skills training, scholarly writing, and curriculum reorientation are setting a model that can be replicated across other colleges.
“CERTL’s mission to enhance research, teaching, and learning is perfectly aligned with Makerere University’s direction. Initiatives such as New Hires’ Workshops and the RATE (Reflect, Articulate, Translate, and Evaluate) framework are models that can enrich our academic practices university-wide,” Mrs. Magara said, encouraging the integration of CERTL’s frameworks across the institution.
Recognizing CERTL’s achievements, including over 40 publications and significant contributions to curriculum reforms, Mrs. Magara urged Makerere University’s leadership to expand CERTL’s mandate. “We look to CERTL as a catalyst to drive innovative approaches in teaching, research, and curriculum development, setting a foundation for a research-led institution,” she declared, officially opening the conference.
This international conference marks the conclusion of the CERTL project after four years of implementation at Makerere University. The project was conceived by the then Principal of CHUSS, Prof. Edward Kirumira, and suported by the then Dean, School of Languages, Literature and Communication and now, Vice Chancellor of Uganda Christian University, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi. The project has been led by the immediate former Principal of CHUSS, Prof. Josephine Ahikire, as Principal Investigator, with Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi and Dr. Levis Mugumya serving as Co-Principal Investigators and coordinators.
CHUSS Principal Assoc. Prof. Nkabala Highlights Pursuit of Excellence in Teaching and Research
CHUSS has been intensifying efforts to establish itself as a center of excellence in teaching, learning, and research through the CERTL project, according to CHUSS Principal, Associate Professor Helen Nabalirwa Nkabala.
Speaking at the conference, Prof. Nkabala commended the CERTL team’s dedication to creating a rich academic environment that prioritizes mentoring early-career researchers, accessibility for students with disabilities, and a collaborative approach to research. “We are not only here to conduct research but to make a significant impact on teaching and learning. We aim to lead Makerere into becoming a strong teaching and learning institution,” she said, emphasizing that CHUSS is “moving in the direction of excellence” by building on the strong foundation laid by previous faculty members.
Prof. Nkabala expressed her gratitude to the college’s leadership, particularly recognizing Professor Josephine Ahikire, the Principal Investigator of the CERTL project, which has been instrumental in advancing teaching strategies and research since 2020. “CERTL has allowed us to look at research from a new perspective and address the unique needs of students with disabilities,” she remarked, reflecting on the project’s role in promoting inclusivity and high standards in education.
She also acknowledged the contributions of key CHUSS faculty, including Dr. Levis Mugumya, Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi, and Dr. Pamela Khanakwa, in strengthening the college’s research efforts. “The dedication of our staff, including our registrars and administrative team, has been indispensable,” she added.
Looking ahead, Prof. Nkabala advocated for enhancing CHUSS’s interdisciplinary contributions across Makerere University, particularly through Communication Skills courses, which play a crucial role in academic writing and teaching methodologies. She hinted at a potential restructuring to further strengthen the English language and literature programs, emphasizing their critical role in achieving the college’s academic goals.
In her conclusion, Prof. Nkabala expressed her hope for continued collaboration with Makerere’s leadership in advancing the college’s academic mission, stating, “With the support of university leadership, we can firmly establish CHUSS as a model of excellence.”
“CERTL isn’t just a physical center; it’s a guiding vision across various colleges- PI Prof. Josephine Ahikire
The Principal Investigator of the CERTL project, Professor Josephine Ahikire, underscored the importance of the humanities in today’s academic landscape. In her address,, Prof. Ahikire highlighted the challenges humanities disciplines face, particularly in the wake of declining funding and the rise of digital learning technologies.
“Our goal from the beginning was to strengthen the humanities and address the impact of neoliberal reforms, rising enrollment, and budget cuts,” Prof. Ahikire explained. “We’re now at a point where we need to reinvent how we teach and inspire students, especially with the advent of artificial intelligence, to promote genuine learning rather than mere rote usage of digital tools.”
Acknowledging the CERTL project’s achievements, Prof. Ahikire stressed that the program remains focused on evolving beyond a single project into a sustained vision for the humanities at Makerere. “CERTL isn’t just a physical center; it’s a guiding vision that has extended its reach across various colleges at the university,” she said, applauding the project’s impact on new faculty training across departments.
Prof. Ahikire expressed confidence in the leadership of CHUSS Principal, Associate Professor Helen Nabalirwa Nkabala, and pledged to support her in advancing the college’s mission of academic excellence. “CHUSS is deeply committed to a research-led approach, and the work being done is truly impressive,” she assured attendees.
Prof. Ahikire concluded by emphasizing the college’s dedication to fostering a robust future for the humanities at Makerere University: “We continue to seek excellence as we build for the future, confident in the importance of the humanities to the intellectual core of our university.”
Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi Outlines CERTL Project Successes and Ambitious Goals for Humanities at Makerere Conference
Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi, Co-Principal Investigator of Makerere University’s Centre of Excellence in Research, Teaching, and Learning (CERTL), outlined the project’s significant achievements and ambitious goals. He acknowledged the crucial support from key figures such as the former and current CHUSS Principals, Professors Helen Nkabala and Josephine Ahikire, and Deputy Prof. Eric Awich, as well as Professor Edward Kirumira, whose efforts secured funding from the Mellon Foundation. Dr. Nabutanyi also paid tribute to Dr. Elias State and Professor Aaron Mushengyezi for their role in fostering international partnerships.
According to Dr. Nabutanyi, CERTL has made notable strides in advancing research, teaching, and learning in the humanities. Though the target of 36 annual workshops wasn’t fully achieved, a significant number of workshops were successfully held, focusing on scientific writing, academic presentation skills, and scholarly publication. These workshops have contributed to strengthening academic rigor among graduate students and faculty.
One of CERTL’s key contributions, as highlighted by Dr. Nabutanyi, is its scholarly writing and publication initiatives. The project sponsored retreats focused on publication writing, leading to the development of several research articles and two curated special issues. These efforts have helped bring Global South perspectives to academic publishing, with journals like Mawazo and the Journal of Languages, Literature, and Communication offering critical platforms for these voices.
Another major achievement, Dr. Nabutanyi noted, is the development of a scholarly book, which consolidates insights from CERTL’s workshops and research initiatives. The book, which is nearing completion, will serve as an essential resource for teaching, research, and academic management in the Global South. Dr. Nabutanyi hinted at an upcoming formal launch event for the book.
Through Mellon Foundation funding, CERTL has provided research grants to Makerere faculty members across various academic fields. These grants have supported research on topics ranging from literature and disability studies to identity and pedagogy. Prominent contributors, as mentioned by Dr. Nabutanyi, include Dr. Peace Musimenta, Dr. Danson Kahyana, Dr. Sarah Nakijoba, Dr. Isaac Tibasiima Dr. Caesar , Dr. John Barugahare, Dr. James Wasike and others. These funded projects will enrich the academic discourse and contribute to future CERTL publications and curriculum innovations.
Dr. Nabutanyi also emphasized CERTL’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in academia. He pointed to ongoing research by Dr. James Wasike on disability in education, which has identified barriers faced by students with disabilities. Despite progress in enrolling students with disabilities, challenges remain, particularly in adapting teaching models to cater to diverse needs. CERTL, he noted, is committed to integrating findings from this research into future academic offerings.
Proposed Initiatives
Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi, proposed several key initiatives aimed at furthering the impact of the project on humanities research and teaching. He emphasized the importance of creating tailored pedagogical modules to accommodate students with disabilities. Dr. Nabutanyi highlighted Dr. Wasike’s research on disability as a cornerstone in shaping these modules, which would be designed to meet the diverse learning needs of students and foster a more inclusive academic environment at Makerere.
Dr. Nabutanyi also identified the need for comprehensive orientation workshops for newly hired faculty at Makerere, something previous workshops had indicated as beneficial. He proposed regular training sessions for new staff, as well as ongoing workshops for current faculty to engage with the latest teaching innovations, including the integration of artificial intelligence. These initiatives, he noted, would help align faculty members with best practices and address pedagogical challenges at the university, ensuring a cohesive and forward-thinking approach to teaching.
In addition to faculty development, Dr. Nabutanyi suggested the establishment of a “Best Teacher Award” to recognize and celebrate excellence in teaching. Drawing inspiration from similar programs at other institutions, he proposed this initiative be presented to Makerere’s Quality Assurance and Academic Registrar’s offices. The award would not only honor exceptional faculty members but also serve as an incentive for continued innovation in teaching and dedication to student success.
Dr. Nabutanyi further emphasized the importance of sustaining the academic community that CERTL has cultivated, which includes early-career and senior scholars committed to research and teaching excellence. He proposed incorporating periodic writing workshops and scholarly retreats into Makerere’s academic calendar to ensure that the momentum generated by CERTL’s initiatives continues to thrive. These activities would provide continued support for faculty development and scholarly collaboration.
In closing, Dr. Nabutanyi expressed his gratitude to the administrative team whose dedication has been instrumental in CERTL’s accomplishments. He acknowledged their hard work, which has enabled the smooth execution of workshops, conferences, and other activities. Dr. Nabutanyi concluded by reflecting on the transformative power of targeted funding and community building in the humanities, expressing optimism that the progress made through Mellon Foundation funding would inspire sustained engagement with the humanities at Makerere. He is confident that these proposed initiatives, including the creation of inclusivity modules, faculty orientations, and continued scholarly publications, will further solidify CERTL’s impact in the region.
Humanities & Social Sciences
CHUSS Retreat Concludes: VC Urges Staff to Embrace Policy Vision and Collaborative Solutions
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) at Makerere University concluded its two day retreat with a strong call from Vice Chancellor for staff to engage deeply with university policies and collaborate across departments to address institutional challenges.
While representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ireeta Tumps who is also the Principal College of Natural Sciences emphasized the importance of aligning with the university’s vision to become a research-led institution.
“These gatherings are vital for us to make progress toward our vision for the next hundred years of Makerere,” said Prof. Ireeta. “Engagement and consultation among staff, management, and directors help us understand and implement policies that benefit the university at large.”
Prof. Ireeta highlighted the significance of understanding the “spirit behind policies,” urging staff at all levels to work together rather than in isolated silos. He noted that ongoing dialogue between staff and policymakers strengthens Makerere’s policy frameworks and fosters an environment of responsive and thoughtful decision-making.
The retreat covered essential training on Quality Assurance, financial policies, and research standards, along with discussions on staff etiquette and client service. Prof. Ireeta praised these sessions for giving participants a deeper understanding of expectations and opportunities to refine university practices. “This is a learning process for both staff and management,” he added. “We are committed to making sure this learning never stops as we advance toward our research-led vision.”
As Makerere seeks to enhance its graduate programs, Prof. Ireeta stressed the need to leverage the college’s human resources and to create an enabling environment that encourages research and efficiency. He commended CHUSS Principal Assoc. Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala for her proactive leadership, citing her recent initiatives to set a research agenda, engage students, and involve support staff in university planning.
“I want to thank the principal for prioritizing these issues and for demonstrating the leadership we believe in at Makerere,” said Prof. Ireeta “Humanities are at the heart of the University, and this retreat shows our commitment to their enduring value.”
In closing, Prof. Ireeta urged staff to continue working on key areas such as work ethics, time management, and interpersonal skills, which he identified as vital for institutional success. He expressed hope that these engagements will pave the way for a sustainable future for CHUSS and Makerere University as a whole.
Retreat Sets Strategic Way Forward to Improve Academic and Operational Efficiency at Makerere University
In an effort to streamline operations and boost academic outcomes, leaders and staff at Makerere University‘s College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) concluded their recent retreat with key proposals aimed at addressing logistical, staffing, and technological challenges.
On November 1–2, 2024, CHUSS held a staff retreat at Nican Resort to foster dialogue on policies and work environments impacting staff well-being and daily functions.
The retreat featured presentations on e-timetabling and the biometric system by the Directorate of ICT Support (DICTS), discussions on higher degrees, examinations, and internship processes, as well as sessions on quality assurance and academic policy implementation by the Quality Assurance Directorate. The Directorate of Human Resources addressed human resource policies, while sessions on audit, accountability, and office etiquette aimed to enhance workplace standards.
In addition to formal discussions, team-building activities such as games and health walks were organized, creating an engaging atmosphere for staff collaboration and morale-boosting.
One major proposal was to designate a dedicated timetabling officer to prevent the scheduling conflicts that have previously disrupted classes and operations. “Someone must be responsible for this task, so we don’t repeat the scheduling chaos we’ve experienced this semester,” emphasized a participant, underscoring the need for defined roles in critical functions.
A team from the School of Psychology was assigned to investigate and provide solutions to university policies and address concerns over staff morale, in collaboration with the Grants Administration and Support Unit (GAMSU) and the Makerere Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF) Secretariat.
The retreat also prioritized enhancing recruitment and retention strategies for high-performing Makerere graduates. Leaders noted the irony of producing top students who, in turn, struggle to find positions within the institution. “It’s essential to implement policies that retain our top talent within Makerere, ensuring the continued quality of our programs,” said one official.
Operational efficiency improvements through e-system integration and training were also emphasized. Academic staff reported that while e-systems offer notable benefits, implementation issues and usability gaps hinder productivity. The proposal includes targeted training sessions and establishing a feedback loop for users to report and resolve system issues.
To address staffing gaps, participants suggested restoring recruitment at the teaching assistant level and allocating budgetary support for retirees mid-semester, ensuring academic continuity.
The retreat highlighted the need to empower and support custodial staff, particularly in providing security during evening classes, which often run until 10 p.m. Proposals included a review of housing allocation policies to prioritize residence for custodians and security officers, enhancing their ability to maintain campus security.
Additionally, broader adoption of ICT solutions was encouraged, including the expansion of the Academic Management Information System (ACMIS) for lecturers to record results directly, boosting accountability and efficiency. Biometric systems, widely discussed, are also expected to improve attendance and monitoring for non-faculty staff.
To better support students with disabilities, the retreat emphasized the need for a structural and academic strategy, such as hiring sign interpreters and establishing institutional mechanisms to address their needs. Academic staff require training to effectively work with a diverse student population, ensuring inclusivity.
Finally, participants called for a mindset shift within public service and policy-making bodies regarding the unique needs of academic institutions. There is a need to advocate for policies that recognize Makerere’s role as a premier research university rather than merely a ranking-driven institution. This approach includes consultations with international universities on best practices in retaining top academic talent without strictly adhering to rigid promotion requirements.
These proposals signify a commitment to operational and academic excellence at Makerere, focused on strategic improvements, supportive systems, and an inclusive environment for both staff and students.
-
Business & Management1 week agoCoBAMS Hosts Workshop to Review Parish Development Model
-
General1 week agoProf. Nawangwe calls for Increased Government Sponsorship for Students with Disabilities
-
Business & Management1 week agoStudy Explores PPPs for Sustainable Development in Uganda’s Tourism and Health Sectors
-
General3 days agoMastercard Foundation Scholars Empower Schools in Mukono and Kyegwegwa Districts
-
Business & Management1 week agoPassing the Torch: Dr. Wokadala Hands Over Deanship to Dr. Banga