Introduction 

Makerere University, through the Departments of Animal and Range Sciences and Extension and Innovation Studies (CAES), in collaboration with the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO), specifically the Mbarara Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MbaZARDI) and Mukono Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MuZARDI), Bukalasa Agricultural College, Ghent University, KU Leuven, and HOGENT, has secured VLIR-UOS TEAM 2026 funding for the project “Agroforestry-dairy integration for sustainable agri-food systems in peri-urban and rural Uganda.” 

The project aims to strengthen the Ugandan–Flemish partnership in validating and promoting agroforestry-based feeding strategies for crossbred dairy systems in peri-urban Kampala (zero-grazing) and the Southwestern cattle corridor (paddock systems). To support this work, applications are invited from eligible Makerere University and NARO staff for two PhD positions. 

PhD Position 1: Physiological validation of tree-based, nutrient-specific feeding strategies in crossbred or exotic dairy systems 

Research focus: This PhD will evaluate the physiological and production responses of crossbred/exotic dairy cows to tree-based, nutrient-specific feeding strategies under peri-urban zero-grazing systems around Kampala and paddock systems in the Southwestern cattle corridor. 

Building on previous studies that identified nutrient deficiencies and promising tree-based feed resources, the research will assess the effectiveness of locally formulated supplements in improving the productivity of early-lactating crossbred dairy cows across contrasting production systems and seasons. Blood profiling and production monitoring will be integrated to evaluate animal responses. The PhD will be jointly supervised by Makerere University, NARO and Ghent University. 

PhD position 2: Socio-economic feasibility and adoption of agroforestry-based dairy feeding strategies 

Research focus: This PhD will investigate the socio-economic feasibility and adoption of agroforestry-based feeding strategies in mixed crop–livestock systems. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study will combine household surveys, stakeholder interviews and gender-segregated focus group discussions to evaluate the adoption of fodder and multipurpose trees. 

The research will compare existing tree use with new planting options, assess economic viability, labour requirements, land constraints, gender roles, market access and knowledge systems, and identify factors influencing adoption under contrasting dairy production systems. Comparisons between peri-urban Kampala and the Southwestern cattle corridor will provide evidence on scalability and inform policy and extension strategies. 

Scholarship and conditions 

Successful applicants will receive a sandwich PhD scholarship under the VLIR-UOS TEAM 2026 programme only for the period in Belgium. 

Key terms 

1. Duration: Between 48 and 58 months, with research conducted in Uganda and Belgium. Candidates will spend up to 22 months (4 visits spread over 5 years). 
2. Funding: During research stays in Belgium, candidates will receive a living stipend and support for four international return flights. While in Uganda, candidates are expected to remain employed by Makerere University or NARO, where the salary is guaranteed for the whole duration of the PhD. 
3. Research support: The project will cover approved research costs in Uganda, including fieldwork and essential research materials. 
4. Degree award: KULeuven will confer the PhD degree. Candidates will be jointly supervised by Ugandan and Belgian partners and must satisfy the admission and graduation requirements of KULeuven. 

Application procedure for both vacancies

Interested applicants should submit one merged PDF document containing: 

1. A cover letter (maximum two pages) indicating the PhD position applied for (Dairy Nutrition or Agroforestry) and summarising the applicant’s motivation and suitability. 
2. A 3-5-page concept note relevant to the selected PhD topic. 
3. Scientific curriculum vitae, including a brief description of the applicant’s contribution to multi-authored papers (where applicable). 
4. Names and contact details of two academic referees. 

Separate PDF documents: 

• Certified academic transcripts and degree certificates (BSc and MSc). The transcripts should list all courses taken and the grades obtained, together with an explanation of the grading system. Where available, the student’s ranking within the cohort should also be included. 
• A copy of the Master’s thesis. 
• Copies of publications (where applicable). 
• Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. 

Submission: Applications must be submitted by Friday 14^th August 2026 at 5:00pm, through e-mail to Dr. Pius Lutakome and Mrs Sylvia Decocker. Contact details:  

1. Dr. Pius Lutakome 
   Project Contact Person, Makerere University 
   pius.lutakome@mak.ac.ug/plutakome@gmail.com      
2. Mrs. Sylvia Decocker Administrative Contact Person, Ghent University Sylvia.Decocker@UGent.be

Administrative Contact Person, Ghent University 

Sylvia.Decocker@UGent.be 

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. 

Selection process and timeline 

The project evaluation committee will evaluate applications and shortlist candidates. 

Shortlisted candidates will be informed on 1^st September 2026. 

Shortlisted candidates are expected to: 

• Be available to complete an online assessment between 1^st and 7^th September 2026. 
• Be available for an online interview on 14^th September 2026. The exact interview time will be communicated in the invitation sent on 1^st September 2026. 

The successful candidates are expected to: 

• Commence the PhD on 6^th November 2026. 
• Undertake their first research visit to the Belgian host university in February 2027. 

Kampala, Uganda East Africa.

Makerere University has officially launched its Strategic Plan 2025-2030, reaffirming its commitment to advancing research, innovation, academic excellence and human capital development in support of Uganda’s national transformation agenda.

The Strategic Plan, unveiled by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, provides a road map for strengthening the University’s contribution to Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy through research, innovation, entrepreneurship and the production of highly skilled graduates.

The launch, held at the University’s Main Hall, brought together government officials, members of the University Council, management, development partners, staff and students to witness what leaders described as the beginning of Makerere University’s next phase of institutional transformation.

Positioning Makerere for National Transformation.

Delivering his remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe said the Strategic Plan reflects Makerere University’s ambition to become an even stronger research led institution that responds directly to Uganda’s development priorities.

He noted that the University intends to restore student enrollment to pre COVID levels while significantly increasing postgraduate training to produce more researchers, innovators and professionals capable of addressing national challenges.

Prof. Nawangwe also highlighted the University’s growing research portfolio, commending researchers and research centers that continue to attract substantial international funding.

“when you combine the grants won by all our researchers through competitive international funding, the total exceeds US$200 million,” He said.

The Vice Chancellor also pointed to the need to strengthen the University’s academic workforce, noting that although progress has been made, more investment is required to fill approved academic positions, particularly at professor and associate professor levels.

Strategic Plan Sets Ambitious Institutional Targets.

Chairperson of the University Council, Dr. Lorna Magara, described the Strategic Plan as more than an institutional document, calling it “a public covenant with the people of Uganda.”

She said the Plan outlines measurable commitments that will guide the University’s performance over the next five years, including expanding postgraduate enrolment, increasing STEM participation, improving doctoral completion rates and strengthening research productivity.

“Ambition is precisely what this moment demands. A strategic plan is not measured by the elegance of its language, but by the lives it transforms,” she said.

Dr. Magara emphasized that every investment in Makerere University should translate into tangible benefits for society through research, innovation, leadership and skilled graduates.

She also called for reforms to Uganda’s Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act to strengthen university governance and create an enabling environment for innovation and knowledge production.

Government Reaffirms Support.

Launching the Strategic Plan, Hon. Henry Musasizi commended Makerere University for aligning its institutional priorities with Uganda’s Vision 2040, the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) and the country’s Tenfold Growth Strategy.

He observed that universities remain central actors in national development because they produce the knowledge, innovation and skilled workforce required to transform Uganda’s economy.

“Universities are central actors in national transformation. they are engines of knowledge creation, innovation and human capital development,” he said.

The Minister emphasized government’s commitment to supporting research, innovation and stronger collaboration between universities and industry to ensure that knowledge generated within higher education institutions contributes directly to economic growth.

Universities Critical to Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy.

Presenting the national development perspective, Samuel Kasule, Senior Planner at the National Planning Authority, explained that the Strategic Plan aligns closely with the Uganda’s long term development framework.

He noted that achieving the country’s ambitious economic growth targets will depend heavily on universities producing competent graduates, expanding research and strengthening innovation ecosystems that support priority sectors including agriculture, tourism, ICT, minerals, manufacturing, and oil and gas.

Kasule further underscored the importance of competency based education and post graduate training in building the human capital required for sustainable national development.

A Shared Vision for the Future.

Throughout the launch, speakers emphasized that Makerere University’s future lies in becoming an increasingly research intensive, innovation driven institution that responds to national and global development challenges.

The Strategic Plan 2025-2030 outlines priorities that include strengthening research excellence, promoting innovation and commercialization, expanding digital transformation, enhancing partnerships with industry, and producing graduates equipped to drive socioeconomic transformation.

Its launch marks a renewed commitment by Makerere University to remain at the forefront of knowledge generation and to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s long term development aspirations.

Introduction

As you may recall, we recently launched the second half of our 10-year Strategic Plan. This Plan prioritises academic excellence, research and innovation, infrastructure development, human resource strengthening, and societal transformation to position Makerere as a leading driver of Uganda’s and Africa’s development.

As our updates today will demonstrate, Makerere University is steadily progressing towards implementing our Strategic Plan 2025–2030.

1. Makerere promotes and hires 153 lecturers

People remain at the heart of our Strategic Plan, as beneficiaries but also as key implementers, who are largely the staff. The University continues to make significant strides in building a robust and motivated workforce through strategic recruitment, appointments, and promotions.

In the last year, the Appointments Board collectively approved multiple appointments across academic leadership, fresh academic hires, and numerous administrative and support staff positions. These include several high-level academic leadership roles like Deans and Heads of Department, as well as fresh appointments.

We are dedicated to a merit-based recruitment process to fill critical gaps and to investing in both academic excellence and efficient service delivery. We congratulate all newly appointed and promoted staff and reaffirm our dedication to creating an enabling environment that attracts, develops, and retains top talent.

As expected of any such institution, the University deals with staffing challenges arising from
retirements, resignations, and other specialised needs. We have always managed these through targeted recruitment, contract appointments, post-retirement contracts for professors, and staff development programmes.

SUMMARY: JULY 2025 – to date

2. 2026/2027 Academic Year Calendar

We are pleased to announce that the University is fully prepared for the new 2026/2027 Academic Year, which will commence and progress as follows:

• Fresher’s Orientation Week: Saturday 1^st August to Friday 7^th August 2026.
• Semester One: Saturday 8^th August to Saturday 5^th December 2026.
• Semester One Examinations: Monday 16^th November to Saturday 5^th December 2026.
• Semester One Holiday Break: Saturday 5^th December 2026 to Friday 15^th January 2027.
• 77th Graduation Week: Monday 11^th to Friday 15^th January 2027.
• Semester Two: Saturday 16^th January to Saturday 15^th May 2027.

All newly admitted students (undergraduate and graduate) can now access their provisional admission letters via their individual application portals. We urge students to settle any outstanding payments promptly to ensure a smooth registration.

3. CCE (Complex) Hall Renovation

World-class infrastructure is a cornerstone of our Strategic Plan and hence remains a top priority for us. Last month, Makerere University handed over the CCE (Complex) Hall of Residence to the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) for comprehensive renovation and overhaul works at a cost of UGX 12 billion, fully funded by the Government of Uganda. This historic female hall, built in the 1950s, will undergo major structural improvements and a facelift. Works are expected to be completed within 12 months. This renovation will significantly improve living conditions for female students and further enhance the University’s residential infrastructure.

We are confident that NEC will deliver quality work that restores this important facility to modern standards for our students. This is the fourth major project undertaken by NEC at Makerere, following the renovations of the perimeter wall, Lumumba Hall, and Mary Stuart Hall.

4. Makerere to host the East African Universities Debate Championships

We are proud to announce that Makerere University will be hosting the East African Universities Debate Championships (EAUDC) 2026 from 26^th July to 1^st August 2026.
Hosting this flagship regional event reaffirms the University’s position as an intellectual powerhouse and leader in higher education in East Africa. It also enriches student life and nurtures leadership skills. The championships will bring together top debaters from universities across the region for high-level intellectual exchange, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and preparing the next generation of thought leaders and policymakers.

5. Research, Innovation and Societal Transformation – Makerere’s Leadership in the Ebola Response

One of the strongest expressions of our Strategic Plan is the University’s impactful engagement in solving real-world problems. Through the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Makerere has become Africa’s new nerve centre in the fight against the current Ebola outbreak. On June 26, 2026, we proudly hosted the launch of the Joint Continental Incident Management Support Team (IMST) — a partnership between Africa CDC and WHO Africa — at IDI’s McKinnell Knowledge Centre.

The launched command hub enables real-time, cross-border coordination of surveillance, logistics, and response efforts, as Dr. Andrew Kambugu, Executive Director of IDI, will explain. IDI’s contributions include laboratory strengthening, clinical support in treatment units, infection prevention, community engagement, and active research on diagnostics and therapeutics. This work not only addresses the immediate Ebola crisis but builds long-term health system resilience across the continent.

Makerere’s role in the fight against infectious diseases such as Ebola – from on-the-ground support in treatment units and community engagement to hosting this continental nerve centre – exemplifies how the University is leveraging its research strengths to address pressing global challenges while nurturing the next generation of leaders.

This is fully consistent with our commitment to advance research and innovation that drives societal transformation by, for example, translating academic expertise into tangible public health impact and long-term resilience across Africa.

Conclusion

These developments affirm Makerere University’s commitment to the Strategic Plan 2025–2030. We are building a stronger institution that delivers excellence in teaching and learning, cutting-edge research, modern infrastructure, and meaningful contributions to national and continental development. We thank the Government of Uganda, our development partners, staff, students, and the media for your unwavering support.

AS WE BUILD FOR THE FUTURE.

Press coverage

SoftPower News: Makerere Promotes and Hires 153 Lecturers

Kampala Media TV: Makerere University Strengthens Academic Excellence with Massive Staff Recruitment, Infrastructure Expansion Ahead of New Academic Year

New Vision: Makerere University Recruits 240 staff, promotes 81