General
MAK and Tottori University to strengthen Collaboration: New areas in research and collaboration identified
In line with the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Makerere University (MAK) and Tottori University in 2012, both institutions are undertaking a series of activities aimed at increasing the number of staff and students involved in research and exchange programmes.
Makerere University, which has hosted officials and experts from Tottori University three (3) times, made a reciprocal visit to Tottori University from 29th October to 3rd November 2014, which culminated in the identification of potential areas for further cooperation as listed below:
- The Special program for foreign students in Arid Land Agricultural Sciences to be advertised early enough in November to allow students identify supervisors and submit application documents in time.
- Collaborative research in mushrooms.
- Possible areas of research on the effect of dust on livestock and insects found in arid land farming areas in East Africa; dust on human health; dust from smoke in factories/industries.
- Mechanical engineering students to do practical training/ internship at the Innovations Centre.
- Introduction of Japanese language studies.
During the visit, the Makerere University delegation comprising the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) Associate Professor Okello Ogwang, Professor Bernard Bashaasha-Principal College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) and Mrs. Martha Muwanguzi Ngobi-Head of International Office toured the teaching, learning and research facilities; appreciated the research capacity of Tottori University; and held several meetings and dialogues with the Management, staff and students on the prospects of strengthening the collaboration.
The President of Tottori University, Professor Ryota Teshima welcomed the Makerere University delegation to Tottori University, a medium sized university with 6,000 students specializing in Agriculture, Engineering, Medicine and Regional Sciences. Professor Teshima thanked Makerere University for hosting their first exchange students for one academic year and one graduate student currently. He noted that Tottori University was also hosting one graduate student from Makerere University in the Faculty of Agriculture which has helped to strengthen the relationship between the two universities and hoped to receive more students under the ABE Initiative. He was equally happy to have Dr. Kalemelawa, an alumnus of Makerere University and Tottori University as a member of staff at their University.
Professor Honna Toshimasa, Special advisor to the Tottori University President, Professor Yamamoto, Director of the Global Human Resource Development, Mr. Dagnew Aklog, in charge of exchange students, Professor Ando, Director for the Centre for International Studies and Mr. Takeda participated in the meeting focused on strengthening the relations between both universities.
Professor Teshima also appreciated the cordial relations between Makerere University and Tottori University and informed the Makerere University delegation that plans were under way for a special program of integrating Japanese students into the Ugandan system and culture for three weeks.
“Here, students would be engaged in community service in hospitals and schools as part of their internship programme. Japanese students need a lot of support and understanding when they go to developing countries as they always have difficulties communicating in English,” he said.
On return to Makerere University, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) will engage the relevant offices and organs regarding a proposal made during one of the meetings for Japanese students scheduled to study at Makerere University to come during the vacation in June, undertake the intensive language courses in English for three months before the academic year begins in August.
On behalf of Makerere University, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Associate Professor Okello Ogwang, who represented the Vice Chancellor, Professor John Ddumba-Ssentamu, emphasized the need for collaborations, student and staff exchange programmes in universities.
“A university worth its salt should look for collaborations all over the globe. The student and staff exchanges are healthy in a globalised world. It is a key component in the internationalization agenda of Makerere University as stipulated in the University’s Strategic Plan,” he said.
In the context of a globalised world, Tottori University receives international visitors who give summit lectures on global issues to students and staff to understand the world beyond their borders.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) Associate Professor Okello Ogwang gave a summit lecture on the Education Systems in Africa – A Case of Uganda to both undergraduate and graduate students in the major auditorium. In attendance was the President of Tottori University, Management and members of staff both academic and administrative. Professor Bashaasha made a presentation highlighting research and innovations in the MAK College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences as well as potential areas of collaboration. Mrs. Muwanguzi Ngobi also gave a lecture on international collaborations, outgoing and incoming international students, students’ matters concerning immigration details, applications, selection of courses and admission, welfare, safety, security and health matters.
At the end of summit lecture, the President of Tottori University, Professor Ryota Teshima presented a certificate to Makerere University in recognition of her contribution towards the internationalization of Tottori University. Makerere University’s Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Professor Okello Ogwang received the Certificate of Recognition on behalf of institution amidst applause from the congregation.
During a meeting held at the Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in Japan at Shibuya, H.E Betty Grace Akech Okullo who participated in earlier discussions to set up an Agro-Technology Park at Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute -Kabanyolo by scientists from Tottori University, informed the MAK delegation that she looked forward to more involvement in the processes aimed at strengthening ties between both institutions and Governments.
Reflecting on the six day visit, Mrs. Muwanguzi-Ngobi said that the Makerere University delegation toured facilities that will be very crucial in strengthening research and collaboration.
“Under the exchange programme, the facilities will be used by staff and students in both universities. We toured the Veterinary Medicine Centre, the Fungus/Mushroom Research Centre affiliated to the Faculty of Agriculture; the Arid Land Research Centre-a joint research facility of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology; and the Innovations Centre in Engineering Education affiliated to the Faculty of Engineering,” she remarked.
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Article by: Ritah Namisango, Public Relations Office
The Director of Makerere University Jinja Campus, Associate Professor Ronald Kakungulu-Mayambala, has urged students to familiarise themselves with the Safeguarding policy aimed at creating a safer and more inclusive learning environment.
Speaking during the safeguarding policy sensitization meeting held today Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at the Civil Service College, Jinja, Prof. Kakungulu-Mayambala, emphasized the importance of awareness and adherence to the policy, which seeks to protect students, staff, and other stakeholders from all forms of abuse, harassment, exploitation, and discrimination.
“As Management we want every student to enjoy their stay at the University without being tormented and that can only happen, if students know their rights by reading about different policies on our website. You are meant to be living in a safe environment. We do not want anybody’s dream to be shattered or somebody to drop out from University,” Prof. Kakungulu-Mayambala, said.
In his speech, Prof. Kakungulu-Mayambala, also called upon students who have complaints but do not know the reporting lines, to approach staff safeguarding champions to make sure that they live in a safe environment.
Addressing guests, Emmanuel Muchake, the Guild Administrator at Jinja Campus, pointed out that the launch of the safeguarding policy is timely because as a University, without creating a conducive environment for teaching and learning, they will not have students graduate.
On Friday, April 4,2025, the Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, officially launched the Safeguarding Policy and commended Makerere University for crafting a policy that lays out the University’s framework for embedding viable safeguarding measures into its ethos and all institutional activities and processes to: Identify, detect, and act swiftly on safeguarding risks.
The Safeguarding Policy was developed in response to the growing need for institutions of higher learning to implement proactive measures that address concerns related to student welfare, mental health, gender-based violence, and power imbalances in academic settings.
Some of potential safeguarding risks in Institutions of higher learning include emotional distress, Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (SEAH); material loss, financial exploitation, discrimination and neglect, unfair and illegitimate response to civic engagements, cyber security/threats, psychological and emotional harm, substance abuse and physical assault. Discrimination and neglect which are often high risks for students with disabilities and international students.
The safeguarding policy sensitization meeting in Jinja Campus brought together students and staff in a meaningful dialogue on safeguarding issues affecting learning.
The event was graced by Dr. Rodney Rugyema, from the Dean of Students Office, who emphasized the University’s commitment to the well-being of all its members. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of safeguarding policies in preventing abuse, harassment, exploitation, and other forms of misconduct within the Jinja Campus community.
“Safeguarding is not a one-time action, but a continuous culture of care and accountability. We all have a role to play in ensuring a safe and respectful space for learning and growth,” Dr Rugyema, said.
The sensitization session covered key topics including; recognizing signs of abuse, understanding reporting procedures on the MakSafeSpace and fostering mutual respect among peers.
Participants were encouraged to actively engage and reflect on their roles in upholding safety standards both on and off campus.
Students who attended the sensitization welcomed the initiative, with many expressing optimism that the policy would improve campus safety and encourage victims to come forward without fear of retaliation.
“We have seen issues go unreported in the past because students didn’t know where to turn. This policy provides clarity and assurance that the university is taking these matters seriously,” noted, a third-year student.
The University plans to conduct a series of sensitization workshops and distribute printed copies of the policy to ensure that every member of the campus community is well-informed. This initiative is part of Makerere University‘s broader strategy to reinforce its values of integrity, respect, and protection for all.
The Safeguarding Sensitization Meeting concluded with a collective pledge to uphold safety, dignity, and mutual respect within the University community.
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