Connect with us

General

MakSPH-CDC Mark 12years of Mentoring Public Health Leaders

Published

on

The School of Public Health (MakSPH), College of Health Sciences, Makerere University together with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) under the MakSPH-CDC fellowship program organized the Fellowship@12 and grand dissemination workshop to celebrate 12 years of great service to the nation in the area of capacity building for health leadership and management in Uganda.

The workshop held on 17th December 2014 at Silver Springs Hotel, Kampala was also aimed at disseminating the findings of 13 fellows from the 2013/14 intake.
According to the acting Dean, School of Public Health (MakSPH), Prof. Christopher Garimoi Orach, the MakSPH-CDC fellowship program as the oldest and largest capacity building program at the school, has yielded tremendous results in terms of the number of individuals trained and their impact on the Ugandan health sector.

“Individuals who have gone through this program have been able to acquire leadership and management skills in various areas of public health. This has not only credited Makerere University as a training institution but also added value more value to the health and education sectors in Uganda,” he said.

Supported and funded by the US Government, the MakSPH-CDC Fellowship program was initiated in 2002 to develop health leadership and management capacity in Uganda. The program of offers various training sessions including the long and medium term fellowships, short courses and technical placements which all avail students with management and leadership skills in the public health sector.

At the function 13 fellow graduates shared experience, skills and knowledge they attained in social marketing, behavioral change communication, advocacy, monitoring and evaluation programs and communication strategy in public health, for the two years they have been under training. The MakSPH-CDC Fellowship program presented three awards to i) the Most Outstanding Fellow 2013-14, Ms. Joan Kabayambi-attached to the Center for Health, Human Rights & Development (CEHURD), ii) the Best Academic Mentor, Dr. Frank Kaharuza and iii) the Best Host Institution, Jinja District. The 13 graduating fellows of the year 2013-14 were also awarded certificates in recognition of their respective achievements.

In his speech the Makerere University Chancellor Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera, acknowledged the tremendous support from US Government to this program, “I would like to thank the US Government, which has generously supported the Makerere University School of Public Health-CDC fellowship program, for the last 12 years.”

“Through this support we have not only trained over 300 young fellows who have made a great contribution to health sector in the country but also led to the re-establishment and expansion of the field training,” the Prof. Kagonyera added

The US Ambassador to Uganda His Excellency Scott DeLisi, congratulated the fellowship partner members for the visible and wonderful achievements accomplished during the program. The Ambassador therefore urged the fellows to utilize the skills they attained during the training to develop the community.

“Despite your personal successes, however, the challenge of developing Uganda’s human capital more broadly is daunting and will require your committed and focused leadership to make a difference in the years ahead,” the Ambassador said.

Ambassador DeLisi outlined population growth, education and delivery of health services as important variables affecting human capital development in Uganda. He noted that an additional 200million dollars would be needed to fund the Government’s 90-90-90 HIV goal urged Ugandans to think of creative ways to fund this ambitious target. The Government of Uganda’s 90-90-90 goal envisages that by the year 2020, 90% of all people living with HIV will know their status; 90% of all people diagnosed cases will receive sustained antiretroviral therapy; and 90% of all people receiving antiretroviral therapy will have viral suppression.

In his remarks, the Associate Director for Communications at CDC Uganda and Acting Country Director, Mr. Erik Friedley applauded Makerere University School of Public Health for the doubled efforts in controlling health threats from infectious diseases in the country and the world at large.

“What you have done in shaping the country’s education and health future is typically important, besides the many challenges. You have indeed made new strides in the development of your community,” he said.

Honourable Victoria Sekitoleko is a former Minister of Agriculture in the Ugandan Government and former representative for the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in China, Mongolia, and South Korea. In her motivational talk to the audience; Seizing Opportunities and Living a Life that matters, she shared that the only way to deal with one’s challenges is to turn them into opportunities. She encouraged the day’s graduates to take advantage of their training as leaders to fight against the inferiority complex which limit individuals from attaining their goals.

“Wherever you are, whichever way life treats you, insist on being leaders. I have been seeing all your articles in the newspapers so please do not stop writing. Family is very important so those of you intending to get into academic writing or research should learn how to optimally balance your time,” Hon. Sekitoleko advised.

The 13 Mak-SPH fellows for 2013-14 and their respective host institutions were; Daniel Mwanja-Mumpe-National Tuberculosis & Leprosy Program; Francis Lwanga-The AIDS Support Organisation; Joan Kabayambi-Center for Health, Human Rights & Development; Michael Kasusse-Central Public Health Laboratories; Sharon Nakanwagi-Reach Out Mbuya; Sharon Ahumuza-AIDS Information Center; Elizabeth Asiimwe-Jinja District; Vincent Kiberu-Ministry of Health Resource Centre; David Roger Walugembe-Knowledge Translation Network, MakSPH; Michael Owor-Baylor Uganda; Anne Nabukenya-Mildmay Uganda; Stephen Alege-Uganda Health Marketing Group; and Rosette Mugumya-Ministry of Health STD/AIDS Control Programme.

Article by Nabatte Prossy, Intern-Public Relations Office

Proscovia Nabatte

Continue Reading

General

Vice Chancellor Updates Media on Medical Drones, Road Safety Research & Various Issues

Published

on

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (Centre) with Dr. Andrew Kambugu (Left) and Dr. Fredrick Oporia (Right) at the Press Briefing on 29th May 2025. Press Conference featuring Infectious Diseases Institute—the IDI Medical Drone Programme and Kampala Status Summary 2023 on Road Safety Risk Factors, conducted under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety. This collaborative effort between the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and our Trauma, Injury, and Disability Unit (TRIAD) Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH), Senior Common Room, Main Builing, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi on Thursday 29th May, 2025 held a press conference to update members of the Media on the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) Medical Drone Programme, and the Kampala Status Summary 2023 on Road Safety Risk Factors, conducted under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety, a collaborative effort between the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and the Trauma, Injury, and Disability (TRIAD) Unit at Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH). Also presented were updates on; Digital Certification of Academic Transcripts, Digital Supervision of Graduate Students, Inclusive e-Learning and Smart Classrooms, and Launch of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Laboratory at the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS).

The event held in the Senior Common Room, Main Building, was on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe presided over by the Acting (Ag.) DVC AA and substantive Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. Presentations were made by Executive Director of the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Dr. Andrew Kambugu and Head of the Trauma, Injuries, and Disability (TRIAD) Unit, Dr. Fredrick Oporia. Dr. Jimmy Osuret and Dr. Esther Bayiga from TRIAD supplemented Dr. Oporia’s presentation. In attendance were; the Director for ICT Support (DICTS)-Mr. Samuel Mugabi, Deputy Chief – Public Relations-Ms. Betty Kyakuwa, Deputy Chief Security Officer-Mr. Musa Mulindwa and other university officials.

The proceedings of the Press Conference follow below;

Vice Chancellors’ Press Statement

Good morning colleagues, members of the press,

It is my pleasure to welcome you to this important media briefing, where we share compelling findings from two groundbreaking studies that reflect Makerere University‘s ongoing commitment to impactful research, innovation, and community transformation.

The first is a pioneering initiative led by the Infectious Diseases Institute—the IDI Medical Drone Programme. This project explores the use of drone technology to deliver lifesaving HIV medications and test samples to hard-to-reach populations, particularly in Kalangala District and the West Nile region. The study demonstrates how drones can overcome logistical barriers, reduce costs, and enhance access to critical healthcare in some of Uganda’s most underserved communities.

The second study is the Kampala Status Summary 2023 on Road Safety Risk Factors, conducted under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety. This collaborative effort between the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and our Trauma, Injury, and Disability Unit here at Makerere University presents over two years of data on vehicle speed and helmet use in Kampala. It provides vital insights into the human behaviours and systemic gaps contributing to road traffic injuries and fatalities—particularly among vulnerable road users. The study also offers evidence-based recommendations for enforcement, planning, and public health messaging aimed at making Kampala’s roads safer for all.

We are proud to support this kind of research that not only advances knowledge but also drives tangible improvements in public health and safety.

Before I invite the researchers to present their findings, allow me to briefly highlight some transformative developments in the areas of academic registry and ICT advancement here at Makerere University:

  1. Digital Certification of Academic Transcripts:
    • Alumni can now certify their transcripts digitally through the Makerere Academic Records System (Mak-ARS https://makars.mak.ac.ug/), eliminating the need for physical visits. This user-friendly platform allows access from anywhere in the world, supported by comprehensive video tutorials and public communications.
  2. Digital Supervision of Graduate Students
    • We have introduced the Research Information Management System (Mak-RIMS), piloted at the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, to streamline the supervision of Master’s and PhD research. This initiative enhances accountability, timely feedback, and is now being rolled out university-wide to improve graduation rates.
  3. Inclusive eLearning and Smart Classrooms
    • Through support from development partners and the Government of Uganda, we are establishing multimedia studios and smart classrooms across our colleges. These state-of-the-art facilities are designed to produce professional, accessible learning content, including tools tailored for students with visual and auditory disabilities. This aligns with our goal of equitable, globally competitive education.
  4. Launch of the AI Laboratory at CoCIS:
    • The newly launched Artificial Intelligence Laboratory will spearhead the development of AI-enabled solutions tailored to Uganda’s socio-economic needs, including localized assistive eLearning tools and context-sensitive curriculum development.

These initiatives are part of our broader vision to transform Makerere University into a research-led, inclusive, and globally relevant institution.

Detailed Presentations

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

Prof. Aina Visits Mak, Evaluates CECAP II Progress

Published

on

Prof. Omotade Akin Aina (Left) receives the Makerere Souvenir Book from Prof. Tonny Oyana as Prof. Julius Kikooma (2nd Right) and Mr. Charles Lwanga (Right) witness. Prof. Omotade Akin Aina-Carnegie Corporation of New York meeting to discuss progress of Consolidating Early Career Academics Programme (CECAP) phase II, which focuses on fostering academic development and research among early-career academics, 23rd May 2025, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Senior Program Director, Higher Education and Research in Africa, International Program, Carnegie Corporation of New York, Prof. Omotade Akin Aina on 23rd May 2025 visited Makerere University during his short trip to Kampala. Prof. Aina was received on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe by Prof. Tony Oyana, Principal of the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS).

During his visit, Prof. Aina met with the Project Implementation Committee, representatives from the Consolidating Early Career Academics Programme (CECAP) phase I Fellowship Cohort, and current Fellows of phase II. The meeting discussed the progress of CECAP II, which focuses on fostering academic development and research among early-career academics.

Left to Ritght: Dr. Jesca Nakavuma and Prof. Julius Kikooma alongside Prof. Omotade Akin Aina during the meeting. Prof. Omotade Akin Aina-Carnegie Corporation of New York meeting to discuss progress of Consolidating Early Career Academics Programme (CECAP) phase II, which focuses on fostering academic development and research among early-career academics, 23rd May 2025, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Left to Ritght: Dr. Jesca Nakavuma and Prof. Julius Kikooma alongside Prof. Omotade Akin Aina during the meeting.

CECAP II is being implemented by Makerere University in collaboration with four other Ugandan public universities, including; Busitema University, Gulu University, Kyambogo University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology. Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza, the Project Principal Investigator was represented at the meeting by the Director of Graduate Training, Prof. Julius Kikooma.

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

Directorate of Graduate Equips Schools and Colleges with Training in Philosophy of Methods

Published

on

By Moses Lutaaya

The Directorate of Graduate Training at Makerere University has equipped several Senior ranking lecturers with expert knowledge in a Training of Trainers’ workshop on “Philosophy of Methods”.

In his remarks at the opening of a 3-day training workshop at Level4 Conference Hall – Senate Building, the Director of Graduate Training Prof. Julius Kikooma said, “The teaching of Philosophy of Methods gives all participants the fundamentals to extend knowledge to other learners, hence its importance in upholding the Makerere University values.”

Kikooma urged and challenged the participants to also attend and actively participate in the follow up of learners’ training of students, stating that the PhD students need support as the directorate continues to coordinate the curriculum of PhD by-research that was approved by the senate recently.

“To holistically implement the senate approved PhD curriculum, we are coordinating capacity building trainings of all stake holders in a structured approach with the different units of the University. Many more trainings including Training of Trainers in advanced research methods course are on the way.”

He further urged the participants to be intentional in their teaching profession and in whatever they were doing, adding “Apart from focusing on practices as teachers and researchers, we can engage in wider philosophical debates in our research areas so that we are relevant in the society and in the empowerment of PhD research students.”

 The participants for the Philosophy of Methods training were from College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Education and External Studies, Makerere University Business School among others.

During the same training, Dr. Dickson Kanakulya stressed the need to train senior lecturers in the Philosophy of Methods, saying, “The biggest connection is that societal problems require concrete research to find solutions. Our challenge in Africa is that we employ a short barrow approach to find solutions to problems. This cannot work. We need consistent researchers to solve problems. Lasting solutions to societal issues can only be got through training such as Philosophy of Methods, where researchers come up with new models for societal solutions.”

Prof. Julius Kikooma pose for a photo with participants and facilitators.

Dr. Kanakulya said that Makerere University remains the biggest research University in Africa and philosophy of Methods helps to come up with good research tools that produce good research outputs. “Research has shown that the higher the number of PhD researchers in any given country, the higher the levels of development of that country e.g. the USA, China etc., adding that research is not limited to only medicinal or agricultural related issues.”

He said philosophy of methods, encourages philosophical creativity in research, “It is meant to bring out philosophical generation of concepts, theories and ideas. It is meant to encourage students to question the existing philosophical assumptions and status quo in a given field of knowledge such that new philosophical concepts are created.”

 For successful rollout of government programs like the National Development Plan 4, Dr. Kanakulya said that Philosophy of Methods training needs to be integrated into such systems. “Philosophy of Methods focuses on ethical thinking aspects. For example, for a better rollout of the Parish Development Model, we need implementers to be ethical.” He added.

 Prof. Sulait Tumwiine, the associate Dean of Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research at MUBS said, “This is a discussion where new ideas are shared to guide and gauge applicability in the current knowledge diversity coupled with lots of technological development including Artificial Intelligence and Chat GPT.”

He added, “As professors of Universities, we need to understand how we leverage on what comes up so that it does not take our space, but also appreciate how we can support growth of knowledge. The Philosophy of Methods training is the answer.”

 Dr. Jim Spire Ssentongo highlighted that Philosophy uses more of the critical mind than Science. He added that philosophy is more of speculation of the mind.

“Sustainability of philosophy Education encourages us to continue training. Philosophy being the oldest discipline retained special status in the academia as a pinnacle of pursuit of knowledge. All disciplines have major elements of philosophy citing examples in the philosophy of Mathematics and Physics.

Dr. Spire added, “If you do not understand philosophy, you cannot deeply investigate anything because philosophy is the reality of understanding everything. Philosophy is the basis of understanding what knowledge is and how it is arrived at.”

Also participating in the workshop was Prof. Joseph Ntaayi from MUBS, in his remarks he said PhD students need the philosophy of methods training to understand how to best to create knowledge. He added that ontological and epistemological questions that lead to good research design methods can only be answered by this training.

Dr. Robert Kakuru, a Lecturer in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences said that the Philosophy of Methods training is needed by every graduate student as well as supervisors to critically determine the choice of methods to use in academic research. For example, “If one wants to use a questionnaire as an interview approach, one should understand, why that approach and yet without this training, the why cannot be answered.” He added.

The Philosophy of Methods training was organized by Directorate of Graduate Training with funding support from the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA).

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

Trending