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NORAD and MAK to prioritise synergies in research and higher education

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Assoc Prof. Fred Masagazi Masaazi, Principal College of Education and External Studies(Ag. DVCFA), Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu and Chairperson of NIDIC, Prof. Oryem OrigaAt the climax of the first Annual Planning meeting, the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD) and Makerere University (MAK) agreed to focus on building synergies in research, curriculum development, gender and ICT ahead of the second year of implementation of the nine (9) research projects.

The Annual Planning Meeting, which started on Monday 3rd November 2014 focused on reviewing the implementation of projects at Makerere University under the Capacity Building in Higher Education and Research for Development (NORHED) programme as well as providing an opportunity to focus on the second year of implementation. The meeting ended on Friday 7th November 2014.

Makerere University is the lead partner managing nine (9) research projects under the NORHED programme worth NOK 150million, approximately USD 26million  (including NORAD’s Master programme for Energy and Petroleum).

Reflecting on the five-day Annual Planning Meeting, the NORHED Programme Coordinator at Makerere University, Dr. Elizabeth Bwanga applauded the Norwegian Government for supporting research and higher education; commended the NORAD team for their involvement and guidance; and also appreciated the Principal Investigators and research teams for their active participation and selfless service.

The overjoyed Bwanga then invited the NORAD team to share an overview of their assessment of the ongoing NORHED programme at Makerere University.
On behalf of NORAD, Edle Hamre, Head of Section for Research, Innovation and Higher Education highlighted that most of projects were successfully implementing the respective research activities/programmes, and as such, were progressing as per NORAD expectations.Second Right, Ms Edle Hamre, Head of Section for Research, Innovation and Higher Education

Hamre thanked the Makerere University Management, Principal Investigators and the NORHED Institutional Development and Implementation Committee (NIDIC) for building capacity in South Sudan through their collaboration with the University of Juba.

“There is insecurity in South Sudan. You are facing challenges, but we are glad that you have come up with mechanisms to continue with the collaboration. We are also hopeful that the country will stabilize,” she said.

During the assessment, the NORAD team was equally impressed by the Makerere University financial reporting system, the user-friendly financial manual and also recommended the adoption of financial tracking system used in the management of Swedish International Development Cooperation (Sida) research projects at Makerere University

With regard to the fulfillment of the gender component in the implementation of the NORHED programme, the NORAD team noted that although Makerere University was facing gender- related challenges in the implementation of some capacity building programmes such as attracting women applicants, they strongly believe that Makerere University through the School of Women and Gender Studies is positioned to contribute to gender capacity building in the various research projects and Africa at large.
The NORAD team also supported the strategic direction focused on building synergies in research, curriculum development, gender and ICT during the second year of implementation of the NORHED Programme.

The Vice Chancellor, Professor John Ddumba-Ssentamu reiterated Makerere University’s commitment to the successful implementation of the NORHED research projects.
“We fully support the idea of strengthening synergies and proper utilization of resources. The NORHED Institutional Development and Implementation Committee (NIDIC) will prioritise the ideas and valuable advice provided in the Assessment Report,” said Professor Ddumba-Ssentamu.

CProf Edward Kirumira (L) and Dr Paul Muyinda (R).ommenting on the task ahead, the Chairperson of NIDIC, Professor Oryem Origa assured the Makerere University Management and NORAD team that they would continue to uphold the spirit of togetherness in the implementation of NORHED programme.

“We have different expertise. We will work with the Principal Investigators and research teams to pool resources to build the capacity of research in Africa and centres of excellence in different fields.”

In the same spirit, one of the Principal Investigators, Dr. Paul Muyinda, from MAK College of Education and External Studies (CEES) expressed readiness to share expertise on e-learning with Principal Investigators and research teams under the NORHED programme.

Responding to issues pertaining to the ongoing holistic review of academic programmes at Makerere University, Professor Edward K. Kirumira said the exercise was aimed at producing high quality and relevant graduates, but the Principal Investigators and NIDIC would work with the University Management to avoid delays in the implementation of the academic programmes under NORHED.

On concluding the first Annual Planning Meeting, Dr. Muyinda looked forward to a spectacular second Annual Planning Meeting.  “From the briefing we have heard that most of the projects are moving on systematically. As I said, the first year of implementation has been a learning process. We have a reporting mechanism in place. The next Annual Planning Meeting will be richer.”Ms Asabaawebwa Jeska in the Library space made for People with disabilities.

In memory of Makerere University, Silje S. Vevatne from NORAD took numerous photographs of strategic points/sites at this great institution.  The photo session ended with a brief tour of the New Library Building Extension where Vevatne was impressed to meet Ms Asabaawebwa Jeska, a student with disabilities accessing library services in the space specifically made for People with disabilities.

The Makerere University Librarian, Professor Maria Musoke then led Vevatne to the Research Commons for Graduate Students on Level 4 of the New Library Building Extension.  Professor Musoke informed Vevatne that the glamorous research commons were partitioned and furnished with support from the Government and people of Norway. Full of smiles, Vevatne took a photo of the research commons, shared her business card and informed Professor Musoke that she would keep in touch.

Article by: Ritah Namisango, Public Relations Office
Photos by:  Joseph Buwule, Landmark Media Consultancy

Elias Tuhereze

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Notice: Makerere Disability Scheme 2025/26 Medical Review Exercise

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Person with special needs at the 73rd Graduation Ceremony

The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites persons with disability who applied for admission to public universities under the Disability Scheme for 2025/2026 academic year to appear for medical/review exercise at Makerere University, Senate Building, Level Two (2) in the Telepresence Centre.

Note: Only those who have the minimum entry requirements of at least two principal passes at A’ Level and at least five (5) Passes at O’ Level or the equivalent will be interviewed.

Only candidates candidates who sat A’ Level in 2024, 2023 and 2022 are eligible for admission.

The exercise will be conducted on 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th and 30th May, 2025 respectively from 9.00 a.m – 1.00 p.m. each day.

Important:

a)If you fail to appear on any of the given days above, there will be no other chance for you.

b) Applicants who are beneficiaries of other Government Scholarships are not eligible for admission through the Disability Scheme.

Mak Editor

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Mak Inducts Newly Appointed Staff

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Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda and Mr. Amon Muteganda pose for a group photo with new staff during the induction ceremony on 15th May 2025. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year. Held in the Senate Conference Hall, day one of the induction was presided over by the Acting (Ag.) Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-DVCAA, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, who represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

Warmly welcoming the new staff, Prof. Buyinza congratulated the ladies and gentlemen upon choosing Makerere University as the workplace for embarking on their next phase of professional growth, self-discovery, and personal development.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi addresses new staff during the induction. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi addresses new staff during the induction.

“You are joining a century-old institution with a distinguished history and a deeply rooted culture of academic excellence” Prof. Buyinza remarked. “For over 100 years, Makerere has nurtured the intellectual talents of young people and contributed meaningfully to the development of society across the globe,” he added.

The Ag. DVCAA nevertheless tipped that although the onboarding process might overwhelm staff with a lot of information, it is all meant to enable them better understand their roles, the benefits due them, and the unique opportunities that come with working in a world-class institution. Prof. Buyinza therefore encouraged new staff to contribute to the attainment of Makerere’s Mission, connect with the vibrant community they are now part of, enjoy the beautiful greenery the campus affords, and take advantage of professional development as well as well-being promoting programmes.

“At Makerere University, the well-being, safety, and professional growth of our staff are priorities. We are committed to walking this journey with you, and to building an institution that is not only a place of work but a place of inspiration and belonging” Prof. Buyinza reassured.

Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni (2nd Right) responds to a question as Left to Right: Mr. Amon Muteganda, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Mr. Emmanuel Kitamirike listen. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni (2nd Right) responds to a question as Left to Right: Mr. Amon Muteganda, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Mr. Emmanuel Kitamirike listen.

In his welcome remarks, the Chief Human Resources Officer, Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni congratulated the new staff upon successfully completing the rigorous process the resulted into their respective appointments. He equally thanked the Vice Chancellor for endorsing the induction ceremony with not only budgetary support but also his representation.

Reiterating the need to appreciate the culture, politics and dynamics of the institution that they are now part of, Mr. Mujuni tasked new staff to take time and appreciate the University Vision, Mission and Objectives, and ensure that they adhere to them. He equally urged new staff to read and understand the various university policies and where in doubt, consult the relevant offices.

Ultimately, he urged staff in the fulfilment of their duties and responsibilities not to disregard their individual goals. “You have aspirations that you must achieve as an individual and I encourage you not to neglect them.”

Mr. Amon Muteganda congratulated the new staff upon their respective appointments. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Amon Muteganda congratulated the new staff upon their respective appointments.

The University Council as the supreme governing body of the university is also the policy making body, whose Appointments Board oversees the appointment, promotion, removal from service, and discipline of all university staff and officers. The representative of Staff with Disabilities on University Council, Mr. Amon Muteganda Kabahima who chaired the session on University Governance equally congratulated new staff.

“You underwent a tough process full of various competitive stages and we are sure that we have the right people for the various jobs” he commended.

Addressing aspects of University Governance and the key Offices, the University Secretary and Secretary to Council, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda guided that the policies and regulations that govern the institution are broad, numerous, and as such cannot adequately be covered over the two-day induction. He nevertheless encouraged staff to visit the University Policies website and appraise themselves with the details, not only for avoidance of breaching them but also building a culture voluntary compliance.

Mr. Yusuf Kiranda made a presentation on University Governance and Key Offices. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Yusuf Kiranda made a presentation on University Governance and Key Offices.

Mr. Kiranda equally encouraged staff not to ascribe importance and respect to colleagues based on rank and titles but seek to esteem each and every member of staff as an important and vital contributor to the fulfilment of the University’s Vision and Mission.

“We are all equally important in this university; the person whose services the university does not require, it does not hire. As long as you are here, you are required” he explained.

The University Secretary equally called upon staff to familiarize themselves with the law that establishes and governs public universities; the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA). In his presentation, he singled out section twenty-four (24) that outlines the objectives of a public university in Uganda, as well as sections 30 to 32 that prescribe various offices’ responsibilities.

Mr. Kiranda equally encouraged staff to read the Human Resources Manual, Policy and Regulations against Sexual Harassment (PRASH), the Safeguarding Policy, among others. He concluded by reiterating the need for staff to read and appreciate the policies that directly address their welfare and steer clear of negative narratives and discourse, particularly those that seek to weaponize discourse. Other topics to be covered during the two-day induction include; the University Strategic Plan, Financing, Research-led Agenda, Institutional Communication and Public Relations and the Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS). Topics to be covered on day two include; Legal Instruments, The Collegiate System, Human Resources Management and Functions, as well as Policies on Gender Equality and Sexual Harassment. Others include; Academic Issues, Quality Assurance, Procurement, Audit, and Library Resources.

Mark Wamai

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Pre-entry Exam Results for Bachelor of Laws 2025/2026

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The office of the Academic Registrar has released the results for Bachelor of Laws Pre-Entry Examination 2025/2026 held on Saturday 12th April, 2025.

Candidates who scored 50% and above passed the examination and have been recommended to the Admissions Committee for consideration. However, the candidates who passed have to submit an application where Bachelor of Laws is among the programme choices in the application system here: https://apply.mak.ac.ug.

Those who are not satisfied with their results may appeal within two weeks from the date of the release of results.

The list includes the different categories of applicants namely: A-level, Diploma Holders, Degree Holders and Mature-Age:

Mak Editor

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