General
Presidential Initiative enhances Mak Science and Tech Impact
Thanks to support from the Presidential Initiative for Science and Technology, Makerere University has since 2010/11 undertaken several innovative projects under; the College of Engineering, Design Art and Technology (CEDAT), the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources & Biosecurity (CoVAB).
The initiative supports the university’s main priorities in the area of research and innovation as defined in light of scientific challenges, and the role of the universities as change agents in economic development of the country. On 30th and 31st July 2014, hundreds flocked to Makerere University to witness and several advancements made by the Makerere University Staff and Students through Science and Technological Innovations
This was during the Presidential Initiative for Science and Technology Stakeholders’ Forum organized by Makerere University to engage Government, Development Partners, Science, and Technology regulatory bodies, Policymakers and Academicians to take part in stock of the progress thus far and discuss the way forward. At the Forum held on 30th July 2014 in the Makerere University Main Hall under the theme: “The Presidential Initiative at Makerere University, an engine for realizing Vision 2040 through research and innovation” participants took stock of the University’s contribution towards the attainment of the Uganda Vision 2040.
The Presidential Initiative on Science and Technology was purposefully started to enhance the development of science and research in the country, working through various bodies including the Uganda Industrial Research Institute (UIRI), the Uganda National Council of Science and Technology (UNCST) and other various research stations across the country. The Presidential Initiative has continued to benefit the university by contributing much to its core functions and supporting the two overriding principles of;
- A research-driven university where research and teaching and learning are mutually reinforcing; and
- Knowledge transfer partnership and networking where knowledge production and transfer is two way traffic between the university and the public and private sectors.
According to the Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu, Science and Technology has created a platform for the university to contribute to national development through knowledge generation, innovations and transfer.
“A number of successes have been realized in all projects under the initiative and students under the technology innovations have produced exciting prototypes with potential for rural community production transformation among other benefits,” said the Vice Chancellor.
Through his speech read by the Vice Chairperson-Makerere University Council, Hon. Irene Ovonji-Odida, the Chancellor, Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera congratulated Makerere University upon the continued contribution to the development of science and technology in the Uganda.
“The progress made in this great institution signals bright future prospects for national development. I encourage all young innovators to continue looking at all developments with an optimistic and broad view so as to benefit both national and international audiences,” Prof. Kagonyera advised.
In her speech read by the Commissioner for Higher Education Mrs. Elizabeth Gabona, the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Jessica Alupo acknowledged the impact of Makerere University’s innovations in transforming the lives of Ugandans.
“There has been a need to demonstrate the impact of science and technology on national development, and I am pleased that this has been highlighted by Makerere University. I hope that five years from now with continued support from the Presidential Initiative, there will be even more valuable research products to showcase as has been demonstrated at the exhibition. I thank Makerere University for putting these funds to proper use,” said Mrs. Gabona on behalf of the Minister.
While taking the participants through the evolution of science and technology at Makerere University, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration (DVCFA) Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, appreciated the financial support from the government through the initiative. He noted that prior to the Presidential Initiative Makerere University had engaged in several innovations but encountered a great challenge of inadequate funds, as required to transform these projects into market-ready products.
“I am happy to note that the Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development has directed a sum of UGX 25 Billion to be spread over a five year period for innovations, with UGX 5 Billion committed in every Financial Year Starting July 2010. Therefore we have been receiving this money every financial year,” said Prof. Nawangwe.
During his presentation on Boosting Technology, Education and Innovation, the Principal, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Dr. Henry Alinaitwe, said the College had so far produced eleven technical innovations including the rehabilitation and modernization of laboratories. These projects focus on the increasing relevance and practice experience of graduates; improving the University’s relationship with all sectors of industries as well as the private sector; development of online laboratories, and utilization of indigenous materials in the production of home-based products.
“The Presidential Initiative supports three components at this college namely; modernization of laboratory infrastructure, industrial training and innovative projects aimed at increasing and retaining a pool of highly trained professionals, and developing business incubation facilities to support commercialization of staff and students ideas,” said the Principal.
Speaking on behalf of the technical team of the Kiira EV project, Prof. Sandy Stevens Tickodri Togboa, Principal Investigator–Centre for Research in Transportation Technologies (CRTT), shared that the Centre has a vision to take the Kiira EV project forward and establish the first original equipment manufacturing plant in Uganda and East Africa.
“Our ambitions are to commercialize the Kiira EV and as such we are concurrently working on developing the concept plan as well as a master plan of the facility where the car is going to be made. I am grateful to announce that through the Presidential Initiative, the Government has donated 100 acres of land located in the Jinja industrial and Business Park on which the Kiira Motors Cooperation complex shall be built,” said Prof. Tickodri Togboa.
The Food Technology and Business Incubation Centre (FTBIC) is the first University-based technology and business incubator in the East and Central Africa. In his presentation, Prof. William Kyamuhangire from the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering, College of Agricultural and Environmental Science (CAES), took note of the strides made by the incubator in transforming the lives of Student entrepreneurs.
“FTBIC offers services like processing infrastructure and space, research and product Development support, Technology transfer, Enterprise Development, Outreach and Skills Development. As a result 15 companies have been established and 20 brands registered with over 30 products on market,” Prof. Kyamuhangire said.
The transformation of a country from a peasantry to a middle-class economy may at times call for a radical shift in training. In this regard, the Principal, College of Veterinary Medicine Animal Research and Biosecurity (CoVAB) Prof. David Kabasa introduced the Skills, Production, Entrepreneurship Development leadership and Academic accreditation (SPEDA) model, through which individuals, groups, students, households or communities are enrolled, nurtured and moulded to fit productively into society.
Prof. Kabasa said, SPEDA is a specific university-mediated scheme developed in support of national efforts, which is driving community extension, mass skilling and mass creation of business, wealth and employment opportunities through summative learning, skilling and enterprising and technology exchange to appropriate prosperity for all.
“Therefore as a College we are implementing this model of higher education to promote skills for production, employment and development in the animal industry among post-secondary school leavers through academic–community–public–private partnerships, in order to translate science and education into livelihoods and inclusive economic growth,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the Private Sector, Prof. Maggie Kigozi, thanked Makerere University for all the wonderful research and innovations produced thus far. She however advised the university to aggressively promote these great innovations among the public and private sectors
“I would like to encourage Makerere University to try and market their products among her stakeholders, so that we come to know of their existence. So many things are produced here but we do not know about them! Please endeavour to provide more information and data about the products made,” she said.
The Forum ran alongside a two-day, (30th – 31st July 2014) exhibition at the Freedom Square. Students from three colleges; the College of Engineering, Design Art and Technology (CEDAT), the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), specifically the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) showcased various Science and Technological innovations. These included the Kiira EV car, solar pumps, aerial drones, a straw bale making machine, dairy products honey products, liquid detergents made from animal fats, maize mills, sickle cell testing equipment, malaria treatment kit, rain water harvesting technology, mobile antenatal care, electricity from biomass, Nevirapine medicine modification for prevention from mother to child transmission of HIV, among others.
Please see Downloads for detailed presentations
Article by Prossy Nabatte, Intern, Public Relations Office
General
Makerere University Convocation Graduation Luncheon Honors CEDAT Staff and Outstanding Students
Several staff members from the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) were recognized for their exceptional contributions in research and teaching during the Makerere University Convocation 75th graduation luncheon, held on Friday, January 17th, 2025. The event celebrated the achievements of top students, teachers, and researchers, with special awards presented to CEDAT staff for their outstanding performance and dedication.
Assoc. Prof. Dorothy Okello and Mr. Ayor Andrew Semakula received the Teacher of the Year Award, acknowledging their exemplary contributions to education and their significant impact on students. The recognition highlights the commitment and excellence of CEDAT staff in advancing the fields of engineering, design, art, and technology.
The Senior Career Award went toProf. Kirabira John Baptist, Prof. Olupot Wilberforce and Assoc. Prof. Michael Luswataall from the Mechanical Engineering Department.
Dr.VianeyYiga, Dr. SemiyagaSwaib, Mr. Manga Musa got the Mid-Career Award, while Ms. Namuju Dona Lillian, Ms. Wesonga Racheal and Ms. NamakulaHidaaya received the Early Career Award. At the same event, thirty of the best performing students were also recognized.
The Makerere University Convocation 75th graduation luncheon celebrated outstanding achievements, with a strong emphasis on recognizing excellence through awards. Colonel Edith Nakalema, Senior Presidential Advisor and Head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, delivered a keynote address focused on integrity and creativity for graduates.Col. Nakalema stressed the need for graduates to uphold high moral standards and professionalism, urging them to focus on creativity and integrity, especially in the age of AI, to achieve true success.
The event, themed “Celebrating Excellence and Creating Path to Success,” honored the top performers from each college. Col. Nakalema congratulated the graduates and highlighted the importance of making positive contributions to society. Other speakers, including Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, and Hon. Godfrey Baluku Kabyanga, Minister of State for ICT and National Guidance, emphasized the role of universities in socio-economic transformation and the importance of research.
Written by Harriet Musinguzi, Principle Communication Officer, College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology
By the Program Communication Team
On Friday, January 17, 2025, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars celebrated a significant milestone as they graduated from Makerere University. The day was filled with enthusiasm and pride as 36 dedicated students completed their Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program journey. This achievement reflects their hard work and commitment and paves the way for new opportunities in their future endeavours.
At the event, Mr. Adrian Bukenya, the Country Director of Mastercard Foundation Uganda and the chief guest, encouraged the new graduates to create jobs for their peers rather than solely seeking employment for themselves.
“As fresh graduates, your first step shouldn’t be simply searching for jobs. Instead, focus on creating job opportunities for your peers. The university degree you have earned puts you in a unique position. The knowledge and skills you’ve gained and the experiences and connections you have made empower you to thrive in this country,” Mr. Bukenya remarked.
Mr. Bukenya further expressed his gratitude to Makerere University‘s leadership and acknowledged the profound relationship the University shares with the Foundation. He emphasized that the partnership with Makerere University was essential to the Foundation.
“The Mastercard Foundation values its partnership with Makerere University, as the university continues to produce exceptional talent essential for Uganda’s development. The country would struggle to achieve its national aspirations without this contribution,” noted Mr. Bukenya.
Mr. Bukenya emphasized the core mission of the Mastercard Foundation, which is to alleviate poverty in areas where it is most prevalent and to enhance access to education. He pointed out that the Scholars Program is a fundamental component of this initiative. He noted that earning a degree is a valuable tool and a testament to an individual’s ability to learn, perform tasks, and achieve results within structured and organized frameworks.
He further stressed the Foundation’s commitment to empowering young people to lead and transform Africa.
“The Mastercard Foundation has made a strategic commitment to focus uniquely on Africa, home to the world’s youngest population. Through its ‘Young Africa Works’ strategy, the Foundation supports entrepreneurship and enterprise development among young people, empowering them to shape the future of their communities and the continent.” emphasized Mr. Bukenya.
Speaking on behalf of the University Management, Professor Buyinza Mukadasi, the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic Affairs and Chairperson of the Steering Committee for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, congratulated the program for achieving an impressive 94% graduation completion rate.
“The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University has graduated 964 scholars—78% female and 22% male—representing 94% of the 1,032 recruits from Phase One. We expect to achieve 100% graduation for all Phase One scholars at the 76th Graduation Ceremony next year.” Prof. Buyinza remarked.
Prof. Buyinza expressed gratitude to the Mastercard Foundation for its ongoing support of the university, which has significantly added value, particularly in educating young people from vulnerable communities.
“We sincerely thank the Mastercard Foundation for partnering with Makerere University to educate and empower the next generation of leaders and change-makers. The statistics regarding the number of young people supported and the impact that the program’s alumni have made in society are a testament to the energy and potential of young individuals when provided with the right education, guidance, and support.” Prof. Buyinza pointed out.
Program Director Prof. Justine Namaalwa emphasized her team’s commitment to ensuring the successful operation of the Scholars Program at Makerere University for years to come.
“Makerere University and the nation greatly appreciate the Mastercard Foundation for its generosity and foresight, which continue to transform human capital in Africa. There is no doubt that your vision for Africa is being realized. We are committed to this mission, even as we enter phase two of the program,” noted Prof. Namaalwa.
Prof. Namaalwa expressed gratitude to the University Management, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Nawangwe, for their support and commitment to the Scholars Program. She pointed out that the strong backing from the university management has enabled the Program to meet its goals and succeed at the University.
“I sincerely thank the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, and the entire University Management and the governing structures of the Program for their effective leadership, which continues to yield positive results from our strong partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.” Prof. Namaalwa pointed out.
Prof. Namaalwa equally appreciated the graduates for helping achieve the Mastercard Foundation’s goals, which aims to educate and empower the next generation of African leaders. She noted that Makerere University has begun implementing the second phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which will span the next ten years. In this phase, the Mastercard Foundation has committed to providing scholarships to 1,000 academically talented youth facing economic hardships, enabling them to access quality education at Makerere University.
She asserted that the Mastercard Foundation prioritizes three key transition pathways: formal employment, entrepreneurship, and further education. She urged the graduates to remain active on all the program’s social media platforms, especially the Alumni WhatsApp platform, as it will be a vital channel for sharing ongoing opportunities from the Mastercard Foundation and other partners.
Ms Aida Aol, the mother of graduate Mr Okello Godfrey, expressed gratitude on behalf of parents and guardians. She thanked the Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University for providing her son and other vulnerable young people with the opportunity to study at one of the best universities in Uganda. Ms. Aol highlighted that she had lost hope for her son’s university education due to financial constraints.
“I cannot thank Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University enough for providing our children with the opportunity to attend one of the best universities in the country. Many of us parents could not afford to send our children here because we did not have the resources to pay for their education,” Ms. Aol remarked.
Ms. Aol stated that she lost her husband when her son was only four years old, and she had since committed herself to ensuring he completed both elementary and high school. However, she reached a critical point where she could no longer afford to support his university education.
Graduates speak out
Awien Rose Madot, a Journalism and Communication graduate, expressed her gratitude to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for transforming her life. The program enabled her to achieve her academic goals and instilled in her a strong sense of responsibility to use her degree to create positive change in the world.
“Accessing higher education can often feel like a distant dream for refugees like me. However, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has served as a powerful beacon of hope. It clearly demonstrates that education is a vital tool for empowerment and transformation, even in the face of adversity. The Program has provided us with financial resources, as well as invaluable mentorship, guidance, and a strong support network for all the scholars involved,” said Madot.
Dr. Raphael Kasuku, a dental surgery graduate, pledged to continue the spirit of giving back to his community by offering dental services. He urged his fellow graduates to utilize the knowledge and skills they acquired through their education to uplift their communities.
“To my fellow graduates, this moment marks not just the end of a chapter but the beginning of an exciting new journey. The world ahead is vast and brimming with opportunities that we are ready to seize. It won’t always be easy, but we must remember that the resilience, determination, and passion that brought us here will continue to propel us forward as we strive to serve our communities.” Dr. Kasuku remarked.
The colourful event was a vibrant gathering held in the gardens of the University Guest House, bringing together a diverse community of program stakeholders. Attendees included members of the University management and the Steering and Selection Committees. Mentors of the Scholars Program, parents and guardians, and alumni also contributed to the inspiring atmosphere. Additionally, representatives from the Mastercard Foundation and program partners joined the celebration, along with numerous well-wishers who continue to support the Program’s mission.
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