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
Makerere University has been selected to host the Africa Office of the Alliance for African Partnership (AAP). The significant milestone that underscores Makerere’s role in fostering research, innovation, and global collaborations across the continent was announced at a meeting of the University’s Central Management with an AAP delegation on 23rd February 2026.
Makerere’s selection was based on the University’s robust commitment, alignment with the AAP’s Strategic Plan, and proven ability to manage consortium activities. The AAP, which was initiated by Michigan State University (MSU) in collaboration with Ten African Universities and agricultural policy research networks in 2016, targets critical challenges in education, youth empowerment, health and nutrition, agri-food systems, science and technology, water, energy, environment, and culture and society.
Addressing the delegation consisting of AAP Co-Directors from MSU, Dr. Jose Jackson-Malete and Dr. Amy Jamison, accompanied by newly-appointed Director of the AAP Africa Office, Dr. Racheal Ddungu Mugabi and Ms. Clare Cheromoi, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe who appreciated the choice of Makerere to host the Africa Office said:
“One of the greatest challenges facing African universities is PhD training, particularly supervisory capacity. Through partnerships such as the Alliance for African Partnership we can leverage international expertise to strengthen supervision—whether through training supervisors or through joint supervision arrangements.”
Prof. Nawangwe equally applauded joint initiatives such as the Grant Writing and Publication project, which gave rise to the establishment of a Writing Centre that he said can be used to build capacity in AAP member universities with Makerere as the hub. Officially launched on 21st March 2023, the project is living up to its expectation of becoming a springboard for strong postdoctoral collaborative research for both institutions and other US universities.
Dr. Titus Awokuse, Vice Provost and Dean for International Studies and Programs at Michigan State University (MSU) who attended virtually, reiterated that Makerere’s selection reflects its long-standing commitment to advancing African higher education, research excellence, and meaningful global collaboration.
Reflecting on the origins of the Alliance for African Partnerships (AAP), Dr. Awokuse explained that nearly a decade ago, MSU initiated a transformative conversation in Atlanta centered on the question: How should we partner differently? From this dialogue emerged AAP—an Africa-centered consortium that now brings together 12 institutions across Africa and the United States.
He emphasized that AAP is grounded in equity, mutual benefit, shared leadership, and deep respect for African priorities and expertise. Since its founding, MSU has served as convener and key supporter, working with member institutions to strengthen research collaboration, promote faculty and student engagement, and address shared development priorities.
Dr. Awokuse underscored that AAP’s success is the result of collective vision and commitment, not the efforts of a single institution. He paid tribute to Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources for hosting the Africa Office in its early years and acknowledged the foundational leadership of the inaugural Africa Office Director.
He described the launch of the Africa Office at Makerere University as a significant milestone that reinforces Africa-led leadership, strengthens regional collaboration, and enhances responsiveness to emerging opportunities. MSU, he affirmed, remains fully committed to AAP and to working closely with Makerere and all consortium partners to expand collaborative research, nurture the next generation of scholars, and advance Africa-led solutions to global challenges.
The newly-appointed AAP Africa Office Director, Dr. Racheal Ddungu Mugabi is a member of faculty in the Department of Development Studies, Institute of Gender and Development Studies. Her work on intersectional inequalities in Uganda and other Global South regions uniquely positions her to drive collaborative research and partnerships at the Africa Office.
Initially founded by ten African Universities and MSU, AAP now comprises eleven African members including; the African Network of Agricultural Policy Institutes (ANAPRI)-Zambia, Egerton University-Kenya, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR)-Malawi, Makerere University-Uganda, United States International University-Africa-Kenya, Universite Cheikh Anta Diop-Senegal, Universite Yambo Ouologuem de Bamako-Mali, University of Botswana-Botswana, University of Dar es Salaam-Tanzania, University of Nigeria, Nsukka-Nigeria, and the latest, University of Pretoria-South Africa.
These Universites collaborate under Focal Points to advance policy-relevant research and sustainable development. Makerere University’s Focal Point is Prof. Robert Wamala, Director of Research, Innovations and Partnerships (DRIP).
Addressing the University Management, Dr. Jackson-Malete outlined the African Futures Research Leadership Program, which nurtures early career scholars through mentorship and skill-building as one of AAP’s flagship programs. She noted that the Program that prioritizes female participants or men committed to promoting women in higher education has for the first time during its fifth cohort admitted the first male, Dr. Alfadaniels Mabingo from the Department of Performing Arts and Film, Makerere University.
The AAP Africa Office at Makerere will coordinate activities, boost research collaboration, mobilize resources, and enhance global engagements for socio-economic transformation. This aligns with Makerere‘s broader goals of leveraging international expertise to build resilient institutions.
View more photos from the event: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCLjoA
Students with disabilities at Makerere University have been requested to stop seeking for special attention and instead look for solutions and opportunities for personal growth.
This was during a mental wellness, inclusion and safeguarding session organized by the Dean of Students office and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
Addressing students on mental health and disability inclusion, Mr. Marvin Ggaliwango, a lecturer at the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), noted that if the students stop complaining, they will become empowered to take charge of their own development, build resilience and engage confidently in both academic and social environments.
“Turn your lived experiences into tools for innovation. Stop complaining and start creating solutions for yourselves. You are the one living this life, and that gives you the authority to be an expert. When you develop a solution, it doesn’t just benefit you, it helps others too, by removing barriers,” Mr. Marvin Ggaliwango, said.
He encouraged students to see themselves not as victims of circumstance, but as active participants and co-creators of the inclusive environment they wish to experience.
“Learn how to communicate effectively and humbly. If you have a problem, express yourself clearly. Do not isolate yourself or feel resentful. You are not defined by disability, you may face disadvantages, but you still have ability,” he encouraged.
Throughout the session, students listened attentively as he emphasized the importance of self-awareness and personal responsibility, urging them to understand their strengths, acknowledge their limitations and take deliberate steps toward personal growth while contributing positively to the University community.
“We must enhance and ensure that our mental health is number one. Always choose yourself first. Choose what makes you happy and protect your peace. If you are at peace with yourself, your academics will improve. There is a strong link between mental wellness and academic success,” Mr. Ggaliwango, noted.
In his speech, Mr. Musa Mwambu, the Disability Inclusion Advisor at Light for the World Uganda, called upon the students with disabilities to enhance and ensure that their mental health is prioritized.
“As students living with disabilities, sometimes you over expect, because you have a disability you should be given, listened to and when people do not listen to you, you attribute it to your disability, get it from me, even those without disabilities are not listened too. Things are not happening to you because of your disability it is because of the world we live in. Everything that happens to you can happen to others,” Mr Mwambu, noted.
“Have fun with your life. Make yourself happy and be smart. Present yourself in public confidently wherever you go. The way you carry yourself can improve your mental health and how others perceive you,” Mr. Mwambu said.
He reminded the students that gaining admission to Makerere is itself a milestone.
“There are many people without disabilities who have never stepped at Makerere University. Find something that empowers you and hold on to it. You may have a physical impairment, but if you are brilliant in class, you can lead discussions and inspire others,” he added.
During the session, Dr. Rodney Rugyema, the Acting Principal Warden, welcomed the students back from the long holiday. He assured them that the University is committed to their safety and well-being while on campus.
Dr. Rugyema emphasized that the University has systems in place to protect students, both physically and psychologically and encouraged them to report any concerns promptly.
“When you are at the University, you are not on your own, we are always here for you. For us to engage you on mental wellness and inclusion, we want you to be in the right state of mind, whole and complete,” Dr Rugyema, said.
He added: “We are here to empower you and we are calling upon you not be a risk for yourself and always be able to detect risks that are likely to affect your mental health and works towards avoiding them and reporting them to ensure that the University manages them before they escalate into real harm whose impact is more serious than you can think,”
During the session, Ms. Diane Nabikolo Osiru highlighted the University’s broader commitment to safeguarding.
Safeguarding at Makerere University refers to measures put in place to promote safety and wellness of all students, staffs and other stakeholders.
“At Makerere University, safety is not a luxury for few. but it is a right for every student. As the semesters begins, we are urging you to learn how to identify signs of harm or abuses and report them to the appropriate safeguarding contact points,” Ms Nabikolo, said.
For support in case of any harm or abuse, International and Refugee Students, can access support through the Advancement and International Office, while Students with Disabilities, can utilize the Disability Support Center. Those with personal and emotional challenges, can visit the Counselling and Guidance Centre.
In his speech, Dr Joab Agaba, a Lecturer in the College of Computing and Information Sciences, guided students how to report risks and incidences to the MakSafeSpace, the e-reporting platform complimenting the other University traditional reporting channels.
Mr. Henry Nsubuga, the Manager of the Counselling and Guidance Center, shared practical strategies for coping with stress effectively including time management, setting realistic goals, seeking support from peers or counsellors.
Students speak out
Shanitah Nahamya, 2nd year student of the Bachelor of Adult and Community Education
“I have learned how to respectfully and appropriately engage with students with disabilities. In the past, I often felt pity when I encountered them, but now I understand that what they need is not pity, it is respect, support, and equal opportunity.”
Guo Dorothy Geri, 1st year student of the Bachelor of Commerce
“I have learnt how to use inclusive language. Before offering help to a student with a disability, I will first ask them, because not all the time do they need our help. You might think someone wants to be helped to cross the road, yet they are waiting for someone.”
Valentines Doris Aduka, 1st Year student of the Bachelor of Biomedical Science
“I have been calling students with disabilities special names, thinking it was kind. But I have learned that they do not want to be treated differently or labeled in a special way. What they value most is being treated like everyone else, with respect, dignity, and fairness.”
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