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 Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe on 20th April 2026 inaugurated the Second Makerere University Health User Committee (Mak-HUC). The Committee was established by the Vice Chancellor in 2022 as part of his strategic mandate to strengthen and oversee the University Hospital services delivery.
Chaired by Dr. Allen Kabagenyi from the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Mak-HUC has as its members; Prof. Josaphat K. Byamugisha-Director Makerere University Health Services (MakHS) and Dr. Daniel Ronald Ruhweza-Department of Law and Jurisprudence, School of Law.
Other members include; Dr. Arthur Kwizera-Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, College of Health Sciences (CHS) and Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA) Representative, Dr. Lillian Tukahirwa-Makerere University Administrative Staff Association (MASA) Representative, Mr. Godfrey Othieno- National Union of Educational Institutions (NUEI) Representative, and as Secretariat, Ms. Kevin M. Nabiryo-Directorate of Human Resources.
The 2nd Mak-HUC has been appointed for a period of four years effective 1st January 2026 with a mandate to: Guide, monitor and oversee delivery of health services by MakHS; Represent the interests and concerns of staff and students that use MakHS; Advise on alignment with sustainable health financing and insurance models; Strengthen systems for fraud prevention, digital transformation and access to specialized treatment, among other responsibilities.
The 1st Mak-HUC was chaired by Dr. Allen Kabagenyi and had as members; Prof. Josaphat Byamugisha, Dr. Fred Mayambala, Dr. Zahara Nampewo, Mr. Othieno Godfrey, Mr. Apunyo Paul Okiria and Ms. Ikiriza Racheal. Milestones during the first era included; Outpatient Department visits growth from 4,802 (2022) to 7,388 (Nov 2025) for staff and 14,641 (2022) to 19,069 (Nov 2025) for students.
Others milestones included; Commissioning of a fully equipped Operating Theatre, Establishment of a modern Imaging Hub, Development of a fully functional Audiology Unit, Expansion of the Temporal Bone Laboratory, Launch of the Olink Proteomics Platform and Enhancement of the Dental Unit with 32 dental chairs and experienced personnel.
Related article: https://news.mak.ac.ug/2025/12/three-years-of-impact-makerere-university-health-user-committee-presents-status-report/
By Gerald Ochwo
On Monday, 20th April 2026, the Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and his Senior Management Team (SMT) convened to witness the official handover of office within the Senate Division. The ceremony, attended by representatives from the Directorate of Internal Audit, marked an important moment of transition and continuity in the University’s academic administration. The outgoing Deputy Academic Registrar in charge of the Senate Division, Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi, formally handed over office to Ms. Gladys Khamili, who assumes the role in an acting capacity.
In his remarks, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi underscored the significance of the transition, situating it within a broader institutional context. He observed that the Department of the Academic Registrar has, over the years, experienced a steady wave of retirements, particularly among senior staff. He noted that this trend is expected to continue, with a considerable number of experienced personnel due to retire within the next two years.
While acknowledging the institutional gaps created by these departures, he reassured staff that the University is actively addressing the situation to ensure the continued efficiency of the Department.
“You will agree with me that the Department has, over the years, witnessed the retirement of many senior colleagues. Their departure leaves behind a significant institutional gap. However, the University is fully aware and will address it through targeted recruitment,” he stated.
In her detailed handover report, which she delivered verbatim, Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi reflected on her tenure with gratitude and a deep sense of fulfillment. She paid tribute to the Vice-Chancellor, in his capacity as Chairperson of the University Senate, for his steadfast guidance and support throughout her service. She also expressed sincere appreciation to the Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, for his pragmatic and results-oriented leadership.
“I remain deeply grateful for the support from the Vice-Chancellor and all members of Senate for the trust they accorded me. I equally thank the Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza, for his results-oriented approach to administration. His support enabled us to achieve remarkable progress under the DARP (Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes) Project, including the successful digitalization of Senate minutes, some dating as far back as the 1990s, which are now easily retrievable,” she noted.
Her remarks painted a picture of dedication, progress, and institutional strengthening, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to benefit the University.
In her acceptance remarks, Ms. Gladys Khamili expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Academic Registrar for the confidence placed in her. She acknowledged the weight of responsibility that comes with the role and pledged her commitment to upholding the standards and gains established by her predecessor.
She paid glowing tribute to Mrs. Mushengyezi’s exceptional service, noting that her impact within the Senate Division is both profound and enduring.
“I am truly honored by the trust bestowed upon me. I am committed to building on the strong foundation laid by Mrs. Mushengyezi, whose remarkable contribution and dedication will continue to inspire us all,” she said.
The ceremony not only marked the end of a distinguished era in the Department of the Academic Registrar, but also the beginning of a new phase, underscored by continuity, renewal, and a shared commitment to excellence in academic administration at Makerere University.
Gerald Ochwo is the Liaison and Communication Officer, Office of the Academic Registrar
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