Connect with us

General

Uganda and Sweden sign five-year USD 32million research collaboration agreement

Published

on

It was a historic moment as the invited guests, Vice Chancellors of public Universities in Uganda, researchers and the media witnessed the signing of the General Agreement between Sweden and the Government of Uganda on research collaboration; the Specific Agreement on Research Collaboration between Sweden and Makerere University; and an agreement on Swedish University Coordination between Sida and Uppsala University/International Science Programme.

The 32 million USD five year (2015-2020) agreement signed on Tuesday 3rd November 2015 will significantly contribute to the transformation of Uganda through supporting the higher education sector, multi-disciplinary research, training of 337 academic staff and institutional development.Vice Chancellor Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Prof. Celestino Obua (L) and Assoc. Prof. Neema Abooki from the College of Education and External Studies, Makerere University.

Addressing the congregation, H.E Urban Andersson, the Swedish Ambassador to Uganda who signed on behalf of the Swedish Government said: “This day will mark the beginning of a new five year period, bringing our cooperation into year 2020. The new agreement included five Ugandan Universities namely Makerere, Busitema, Kyambogo, Gulu and Mbarara as well as Eleven Swedish universities.”

The following Vice Chancellors witnessed the colourful signing ceremony: Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu-Makerere University; Prof. Celestino Obua-Mbarara University of Science and Technology; Prof. Katunguka Rwakishaya- Kyambogo University; Prof. J.H. Nyeko Pen-Mogi-Gulu University and Dr. Kucel, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) – Busitema University.

“The work of researchers gathered here today, with their Swedish counterparts, shall advance and transform Uganda and Sweden in terms of Science and innovation,” said the Ambassador.

Taking stock of the important research results from the 15 year (2000-2015) research implementation period, H.E Andersson pointed out some of the milestones, which included: a method to detect multi-drug resistant tuberculosis, control of African swine fever, transforming organic waste to energy, road safety control, cervical cancer management, and significant strides in malaria vaccine research.

The Ambassador explained that the 2015-2020 implementation phase comprises teams of Ugandan and Swedish researchers who jointly worked on proposals, which after a competitive selection process culminated into 17 multi-disciplinary projects.Prof. Eli Katunguuka- Rwakishaya, Vice Chancellor Kyambogo University talks to Assoc. Prof. David Owiny, the Deputy Director (Training) Directorate of Research and Graduate Training, Makerere University. Dr. Susanne Spets, Counsellor  Head of Development Cooperation at the Swedish Embassy is seen in the background

“What we see is a rich and promising portfolio which will necessarily open new frontiers, ignite debate, and increase knowledge. Researchers will dwell into subjects such as governance, social protection, climate change, infectious diseases, food security, communication technology, gender, religion and ethics,” he remarked.
At the signing ceremony, His Excellency also emphasized the importance of research, capacity building and institutional support.

“We all agree that a society that does not produce its own intellectuals cannot be independent. But to have a critical mass of intellectuals is not enough. Researchers need an environment in which to operate. Labs and libraries need to be equipped, time for research and outlets for dissemination are key for long-term sustainable research achievements. This is the reason why Swedish research funding has the component of institutional support, which is organically linked to support for graduate training,” he said.

Hon. Matia Kasaija, Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development who signed on behalf of the Government of Uganda commended the Swedish Government for supporting higher education in Uganda, health, water and sanitation, ICT and gender mainstreaming. Hon. Kasaija reiterated the contribution of research, science and technology to the transformation of the economy.

“Without research, innovation and technology, you have no Country/University to talk about. It is through support and investment in research, ICT, information, training of academicians that the Ugandan economy will continue to grow. I therefore thank the Swedish Government for supporting initiatives that will bring about the required transformation,” said the Hon. Minister.Professor Buyinza Mukadasi Director, Research and Graduate Training, Makerere University and Prof. Leif Abrahamsson from Uppsala University, Sweden.
Toasting to the years ahead, the congregation reflected on the 2015-2020 multi-disciplinary approach to research focused on the realization of the following specific objectives:

  • Improving the institutional and research infrastructure to support a robust environment for research and innovations at Makerere University by 2020,
  • Strengthening local PhD training in public universities in Uganda,
  • Increasing the generation and dissemination of knowledge and research outputs,
  • Increasing capacity for knowledge translation and innovations,
  • Increasing partnerships and regional synergies for knowledge generation and sharing,
  • Improving the coordination and management of research and knowledge uptake,
  • Increasing cooperation with partner public universities.

The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu who signed the Specific Research Agreement said that the 2015-2020 phase would include 17 teams/projects comprising researchers and scholars from both Uganda and Sweden, whose work will be based on mutual understanding of their shared vision of strengthening research and training as central forces towards socio-economic development.

“In this new phase, we will work with the public universities in Uganda and several Swedish institutions towards building a body of experts that will contextualize problems and create knowledge to suit our different contexts. In total, 125 PhDs, 147 Masters’ students and 65 post-doctoral fellows will be supported,” he said.
In a very special way, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University applauded Ambassador Andersson and the team at the Swedish Embassy namely, Dr. Katri Pohjolainen Yap and Dr. Susanne Spets, and Professor Buyinza Mukadasi, the Director of Research and Graduate-Makerere University/Coordinator of the Mak-Sida Bilateral programme for their dedication during the two years of preparations that climaxed with the 2015-2020 research collaboration agreement.Members of Management from the different institutions and the Swedish Embassy pose for a photo with Minister Hon. Matia Kasaija.

Professor Ddumba-Ssentamu thanked the Government and People of Sweden for supporting research at Makerere University during the last 15 years (2000-2015).
“During the 15-year period, we have successfully trained 210 PhDs, 95 Masters Graduates and 20 post-doctoral fellows. The Swedish Government has supported learning and research at Makerere University to a tune of US$73million, which comprises a great proportion of research funding at the University. Sida support has played a fundamental role in strengthening our capacity to deliver our core functions-teaching and learning, research and innovations, partnerships and networking,” he said.
Prof. Leif Abrahamsson who signed on behalf of the Swedish Universities urged partners to ensure smooth communication in the research collaboration and coordination.

Story by:   Ritah Namisango, Mak Public Relations Office

Related Stories

 

 

Elias Tuhereze

Continue Reading

Education

Makerere University signs Memorandum of Understanding with International Rescue Committee to Advance Research, Innovation and Partnerships

Published

on

Prof. Anthony Mugagga (Left), Principal of MakCEES exchanging the MoU with Mr. Elijah Okuyo, Country Director, IRC

Makerere University has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Rescue Committee to formalize undertakings in research, innovation & partnerships.

Signed in September 2025 by the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the Country Director, International Rescue Committee,  Mr. Elijah Okeyo, the MoU provides a framework to implement research intensive programmes, promote innovative teaching and learning, internationalization, and contribute to societal transformation.

According to Mr. Okeyo, the MoU re-affirms Makerere University as the academic partner of the International Rescue Committee (IRC). “This MoU formalizes IRC’s working relationship with Makerere University. This framework empowers both institutions to tap into opportunities together. We believe in equal partnership. Makerere University commits to being our partner in research to contribute to evidence based humanitarian undertakings,” he said.

Under this collaboration, Makerere University and IRC will work on developing child-centered learning resources, innovative curricula, and policy-relevant research to enhance the quality of education in crisis-affected regions.

At Makerere University, the MoU brings on board, the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Research Centre.

To concretize the MoU, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga convened a partnership meeting on Friday 12th September 2025  involving a delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Dr. David Kabugo, the Deputy Director of Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER),  and Ms. Ritah Namisango, the Principal Communication Officer.

Mak CEES and IRC partnership meeting in progress

The delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) consisted of the following: Mr. Elijah Okeyo-Country Director, Mr. Vincent Wanyama-Senior Program Development and Quality Coordinator,  Mr. Richard Omasete-Policy and Advocacy PlayMatters, and Ms. Janet Nambuya-Grants and Partnerships Coordinator.

The MoU focuses on the following areas of interest: Early Childhood Development, joint research and capacity building in education, the plight of refugees and the host communities, humanitarian aid, as well as, evidence based research to inform the education policy.

In line with its mandate, IRC brings onboard, its unmatched expertise in helping children in crisis-affected areas. The MoU therefore positions both institutions to undertake a leading role in the protection of children and families through evidence based research, access to education, and humanitarian undertakings.

Dr. Kabugo, the Deputy Director MITER, noted that the MoU opens new opportunities for joint efforts in research, training, and policy. He said: “We are committed to co-designing practitioner research, engaging in professional development, and generating evidence to guide the education policy in Uganda and beyond.” Dr. Kabugo explained that this partnership builds on years of cooperation between CEES and IRC, especially in child-centered methods such as play-based learning.

Prof. Mugagga described the MOU as a practical framework that connects Makerere University’s research with IRC’s field experiences. He stated that the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) conducts programmes focused on the future of the young people through training and empowering students/teachers. He articulated that the College significantly impacts on the education sector through delivery of quality academic programmes and research under the School of Education, School of  Distance and Lifelong Learning, and the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development.

“Our strongest synergy is education and early child-focused care,” Prof. Mugagga emphasized. He revealed that the collaboration presents CEES with a strong and reliable partner (IRC), which stands for protection and the well-being of children and families. “Through this MoU, both CEES and IRC, will significantly contribute to improving education for children, families, and communities impacted by conflict and crisis.”

Prof. Mugagga commended IRC for the earlier support and expertise extended to the College in the development of the early childhood centre, and working together to provide valuable input during the Ministry of Education and Sports’ consultative process that led to the Early Childhood development policy.

Reflecting on the increasing number of refugees enrolling for studies at Makerere University, Prof. Mugagga  said: “ IRC has come at the right time. The College will tap into the IRC expertise to teach our staff and learners components in refugee education. They will equip our students and teachers with knowledge and skills in refugee education. Some of our students will cooperate with IRC to undertake research in refugee settlement and host communities.”

[L-R] Dr. David Kabugo, Deputy Director (MITER), Mr. Vincent Wanyama (IRC), Prof. Anthony Mugagga (Principal, MakCEES), Mr. Elijah Okeyo( Country Director-IRC), Ms. Janet Nambuya (IRC), Mr. Richard Omasette (IRC) and Ms. Ritah Namisango, PCO (MakCEES)

Prof. Mugagga implored both MITER and IRC to undertake research and develop modules on refugee education, parenting, re-tooling street children, integration of a health component into the curriculum, and management of truamatised students/learners who come from areas affected by war, conflict and crisis.

On the issue of play materials, Prof. Mugagga stressed that already made play materials derial creativing. “Both CEES and IRC should work towards a context that empowers children and learners to ignite their creative potential by developing home-made play materials,” he submitted.

About IRC

Stating a brief profile history about IRC, Mr. Okeyo explained that IRC is a global non-profit organisation that provides humanitarian aid and assistance to people affected by conflict and disaster. IRC has been active in Uganda since 1998, originally assisting displaced populations in Northern Uganda and later expanding its efforts to refugee settlements and urban areas.. Currently, IRC operates more than 35 health facilities in refugee settlements and runs a variety of programs in health, education, protection, and economic recovery. IRC also undertakes projects focusing on early childhood development, prevention of gender-based violence, and protection of refugees and families.

Ritah Namisango
Ritah Namisango

Continue Reading

General

Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University encouraged to participate in philanthropy work

Published

on

Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala addressing the gathering on behalf of DVC F&A, Prof. Ireeta. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Carol Kasujja Adii and Bernard Buteera

Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University have been encouraged to embrace the spirit of philanthropy as a vital foundation for fostering stronger and more resilient communities. This inspiring call to action took place during the 2025 Community Open Day at the Freedom Square on Saturday, September 6, 2025, where hundreds of Mastercard Scholars, Scholar-alumni, and partners of the Scholars Program gathered to initiate a fundraising drive for the signature Annual Scholars Day of Service.

The Annual Scholars Day of Service stands as a hallmark event through which the Scholars give back to the community in impactful and sustainable ways. During a keynote address titled “How Philanthropy Shapes Resilient Communities,” Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration, emphasised that while local philanthropy is not a new concept in Uganda, a more intentional mobilisation of this giving back power is necessary to address broader social challenges.

“Communities that mobilise their own resources—financial, human, and material—are empowered to take ownership of their development. Ownership naturally leads to sustainability, ensuring that solutions emerge from local knowledge, context, and values rather than being imposed from the outside. This approach is essential for effectively tackling our social challenges,” Prof. Ireeta stated.

A cross-section of scholar-alumni, listening attentively during the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A cross-section of scholar-alumni, listening attentively during the event.

In his remarks delivered by Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Ireeta highlighted the importance of nurturing the inherent power of local giving. He urged the celebration of current local philanthropic efforts, which can be initiated at the individual, religious, and community levels.

“To foster a culture of giving, we need to create platforms that promote structured, transparent, and impactful contributions,” he argued. “It’s crucial to strengthen our generosity, particularly among the youth, and cultivate a society where giving is valued as a core aspect of leadership and citizenship.”

Prof. Ireeta further noted, “The future of our Communities’ strength lies not in distant promises but in our own hands and collective actions. By fostering local philanthropy, we can build a society that is not only fairer but also more resilient and united.

Mr. John Osuna, speaking on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, at the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. John Osuna, speaking on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, at the event.

In his welcoming remarks, Mr. John Osuna, Transition Lead for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, who spoke on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, expressed gratitude to the Scholars for their collaborative efforts in turning the idea of giving back into reality.

“Let us embody humility, kindness, and compassion through actionable philanthropy. By doing so, we can create lasting impacts, enhancing our reputation as a community that genuinely cares,” Mr. Osuna stated.

The Community Open Day was organised under the inspiring theme: “Nurturing Philanthropy for Resilient Communities,” paving the way for future initiatives that strengthen community bonds through collective generosity.

A cross-section of the alumni making their pledges towards the scholars give back project. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A cross-section of the alumni making their pledges towards the scholars give back project.

“We believe that through nurturing philanthropy for resilient communities, our communities shall be able to organise themselves to build resilience beyond what we shall give back,” Mr. Osuna explained.

The vibrant event saw Scholars and Scholar-alumni actively participating by bringing items for auction and buying tickets for the raffle draw as a means of mobilising resources for the construction of a ventilated pit latrine, renovation of two classroom blocks and providing tanks for harvesting clean water for Bwera Primary School in Kabale District.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Agnes Katumba, the Director of Katumba Estates, one of the long-standing partners of the Scholars Program at Makerere University, tasked the Scholars to embrace the heart of giving back without expecting something in return.

Ms. Agnes Katumba, the Director, Katumba Estates Ltd handing over part of her pledge towards the Scholars Giveback project. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Agnes Katumba, the Director, Katumba Estates Ltd handing over part of her pledge towards the Scholars Giveback project.

“I thank the Mastercard Foundation; they not only provide scholarships but also give back to the community. I have been able to grow because of them. For scholars, you do not have to wait to be wealthy to give back; every coin counts,” Mrs. Katumba said.

Katumba Estates Ltd contributed three million shillings to the Scholars Give Back project. Another long-standing partner, DFCU Bank, pledged over sh10 million towards the Scholars’ building project.

The Representative from DFCU making the pledge to support Scholars Giveback project on behalf of the Bank. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Representative from DFCU making the pledge to support Scholars Giveback project on behalf of the Bank.

In her presentation, Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar-alumna, urged current Scholars to contribute to their communities in various ways, including mentorship and guiding young people.

Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Scholar-alumna addressing fellow Scholars and alumni at the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Scholar-alumna addressing fellow Scholars and alumni at the event.

“We are all here because someone chose to give. During my first year at Makerere, I contributed to some young man’s school fees back home in my community. The young man is now in his second year at Makerere. You don’t have to be wealthy to make an impact; be intentional in your giving, and you will witness the difference it makes. There is no greater fulfilment than helping someone in need,” Akwara stated.

Some of the Scholars praying for their raffle draw tickets to win. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the Scholars praying for their raffle draw tickets to win.

The event was punctuated with a number of activities that ranged from auctioning items, raffle draws, exhibitions, quizzes and a lot of games and fun.

The winner of the grand draw walked away with a flat screen TV. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The winner of the grand draw walked away with a flat screen TV.

Carol Kasujja and Bernard Buteera form the communications team for the Scholars Programme at Makerere University.

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

First-Year Student’s Joining Instructions 2025/26

Published

on

Dear Students; Class of 2025/2026
I am very delighted to welcome you to Makerere University. You are joining a Premier University and I hope you all are excited to start your new academic journey. We would like to first congratulate all of you for successfully overcoming the many challenges you have all faced, from completing high school to choosing a university and a study program and the extensive delays in the admission process you experienced.

As you are about to begin one of the most exciting times in your life, you should acknowledge and appreciate your efforts and achievements so far. I am aware that as a fresher, you are filled with hope and ambition, and I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the road that has brought you here. I know that you have worked hard and overcome many obstacles
to reach this point. So, take a moment to savor this achievement and be proud of yourselves.

Now, as you step into the next phase of your lives, I want to remind you that this is a time of growth and exploration. You will face new challenges, make new friends, and gain experiences that will shape you into the person you will become. This is the time to embrace new opportunities, learn from your mistakes, and never stop growing.

I also want to emphasise the importance of hard work, determination, and resilience. These are the qualities that will help you overcome any obstacle and succeed in your endeavors. Remember to keep your focus on your goals and work towards them with determination.
I encourage you to approach your studies with a growth mindset. This means that you believe that your abilities can be developed through hard work and perseverance. Remember that failure is not the end, but rather an opportunity to learn and grow.

Professor Buyinza Mukadasi (PhD)
Academic Registrar

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

Trending