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CARTA – Call for PhD Applications, 2016/2017

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Background

The Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA) is an initiative of nine African universities, four African research institutes, and select northern partners. CARTA offers an innovative model for doctoral training in sub-Saharan Africa to strengthen the capacity of participating institutions to conduct and lead internationally-competitive research.

The multi-disciplinary CARTA program is open to staff of participating institutions who are interested in conducting their PhD research on topics relevant to the broad fields of public and population health. We welcome applications from any discipline, such as public health, demography, anthropology, communication, and economics, among others, as long as the research question aims to contribute to public and population health issues in Africa.

Over the medium-term, CARTA aims to produce a critical mass of high-quality graduates trained to address the complex issues surrounding health and development in Africa, retain them in the region, and provide them with a vibrant intellectual environment, as well as viable and challenging research and growth opportunities. CARTA aims to achieve reforms in higher education by:

1. Assisting universities to develop enriching and vibrant academic and research environments; and

2. Supporting promising African scholars who teach at affiliated universities to obtain high-quality doctoral training in public and population health-related fields.

CARTA is currently offering a collaborative doctoral training program in public and population health. This program has been developed in response to the great challenges faced by Africa’s institutions of higher education in addressing the training and retention of the next generation of academics in the region. Women are particularly encouraged to apply.

Specifically, CARTA seeks to fund candidates who will be future leaders in their institutions; that is, young, capable, and committed individuals who, in time, will ensure that their universities will be the institutions of choice for future generations of academics and university administrators wishing to make a positive impact on public and population health in Africa.

Successful applicants will attend CARTA’s innovative series of Joint Advanced Seminars (JAS) for cohorts of doctoral students admitted and registered in the participating African universities.

Both the development and delivery of these courses are jointly-led by regional and international experts. The seminars consist of didactic sessions, discussions, demonstrations, and practice labs. These activities collectively serve to:

1. Expose students to key theories and concepts, seminal readings, and research methods of disciplines relevant to public and population health;

2. Train students in critical research skills; and

3. Build and maintain a network of researchers for scientific collaborations, professional support, and mutually beneficial exchange of scientific resources.

The advanced seminars are offered once annually for four years to each cohort and build skills and conceptual depth from year to year. Each JAS runs for 3 to 4 weeks. Specific topics covered in each JAS include the following:

  •  JAS-1 builds critical thinking, technical skills, and other core research competencies, and introduce students to the essential concepts and seminal articles of the disciplines brought together under CARTA
  •  JAS-2 focuses on data management and analysis. Fellows learn to use software packages for qualitative and quantitative data management and analyses. Practice sessions use real research data and current software packages for hands-on training
  • JAS-3 focuses on data presentation, the doctoral dissertation, and scientific writing and communication skills to facilitate results dissemination and policy engagement
  •  JAS-4 addresses professional development including skills necessary to manage and teach large class sizes, raise and manage research funds, grant writing and research management. JAS-4 is also designed to serve as an opportunity for senior fellows to practice mentoring of junior fellows through discussions and laboratory sessions, software training, and general information sharing.

During the 2016/2017 academic year, the CARTA program is planning to offer up to 25 PhD fellowships. The Fellowship, which is tenable at one of the participating African universities, includes the cost of fellows’ participation in the advanced seminars; a modest monthly stipend; small grants for research activities; a laptop loaded with relevant software; funds for travel to conferences, as well as costs for participating in joint program activities. The fellowship runs for a maximum of four years. Fellowships cover tuition fees, medical insurance, and other university fees in special circumstances only. Partner institutions have committed to continue paying Fellows’ salaries (or equivalent) and to modify workloads for the fellows to enable them to fully participate in CARTA organized activities pertaining to their PhD program and also to concentrate on their PhD studies. Fellows are encouraged to seek supplemental funding to cover additional costs of their doctoral program.

Participating African Universities

  • Makerere University, Uganda.
  • Moi University, Kenya.
  • Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria.
  • University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
  • University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
  • University of Malawi, Malawi.
  • University of Nairobi, Kenya.
  • University of Rwanda, Rwanda.
  • University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa.

Participating Research Institutes

  • African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Kenya.
  • Agincourt Health and Population Unit, South Africa.
  • Ifakara Health Institute (IHI), Tanzania
  • KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kenya.

Northern Partners

  • Brown University, USA.
  • Canadian Coalition for Global Health Research (CCGHR), Canada.
  • Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), Switzerland.
  • Umeå University, Sweden.
  • University of Gothenburg, Sweden.
  • University of Warwick, UK.

Eligibility

  • A Masters degree in a relevant field.
  • Prior admission into a PhD program is not required for application but awards are contingent on such admission being obtained at one of the participating African universities.
  • Applicants for this program must be teaching or research staff at one of the participating African institutions and should be committed to contributing towards building capacity at their institutions.
  • Applicants’ PhD research proposal must be related to public and population health.
  • Fellowships are only open to people who have not yet registered for a PhD or are in the very early stages (first year) of the PhD program.
  • Applicants must commit to participation in all four annual residential Joint Advanced Seminars (JASes), and to engage in inter-seminar activities designed to keep fellows actively engaged and in continual communication with peers and mentors.
  • Male applicants must be under the age of 40 years and female applicants under the age 45 years.

Application Procedure

  1. Contact the CARTA focal person) at your institution to discuss your interest and obtain application materials. Application forms may also be downloaded from the CARTA website (www.cartafrica.org)
  2. Submit your application to the local CARTA committee in your institution (also email a copy of all application materials to (carta@aphrc.org ), which will conduct the initial screening process and submit successful applications to the CARTA secretariat. The deadline for submissions is May 15, 2016.
  3. If successful at the university selection level, the CARTA secretariat will inform and contact you to proceed to the next level
  4. Successful applicants at the university selection level will be expected to:
  5. ​ Complete an online-based pre-JAS, Part I tasks
  6. A competency course (June 5, 2016 – July 5, 2016)
  7. Send a full application to the CARTA secretariat. The deadline for submission of the full application is July 5, 2016.

5.​ Final fellowship decision, which is independent of the university application, will be communicated by CARTA secretariat by November 1, 2016

The Application Form can be accessed from the link below.

CARTA Focal Persons


1. Makerere University, Uganda

Prof. Anne Katahoire

Director, Child Health and Development Centre
Faculty of Medicine
Makerere University
P.O. Box 6717, Kampala, UGANDA
Tel: +256 414 541684/530325
Email: annekatahoire@yahoo.co.uk

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi Director, Directorate of Research and Graduate Training, Makerere University P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, UGANDA Tel: +256-414-530983 Cell: +256-774515366 Fax: +256-414-533809 Email: buyinza@rgt.mak.ac.ug; buyinza@forest.mak.ac.ug


2. Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria

Prof. Anthony Aluko Mabayoje

Department of Sociology & Anthropology Faculty of Social Sciences Obafemi Awolowo University, Osun State, Ile-Ife, NIGERIA Tel: +234 8 054 854 861 Email: niyialuko@oauife.edu.ng, maoaluko@yahoo.com   Prof. Peju Esimai College of Health Sciences Obafemi Awolowo University, Osun State, Ile-Ife, NIGERIA Tel: + 2348037211457 pejuesimayi@yahoo.com


3. Moi University, Kenya

Prof. Anne Nangulu Director, Quality Assurance Moi University P.O. Box 3900 30100 Eldoret, KENYA Tel: +254 53 43093 (office) Mobile: +254 733 870 502 Email: anangulu@yahoo.com; deanarts@mu.ac.ke

 


4. University of Ibadan, Nigeria

 

Prof. Akinyinka Omigbodun College of Medicine University of Ibadan, NIGERIA Tel: + 234 803 323 0457 Email: omigbodun@yahoo.com; omigbodun@gmail.com   Dr. Funke Fayehun Department of Sociology University of Ibadan, NIGERIA Tel: + 234 803 323 0457 Email: cl_funke@yahoo.com


5. University of Rwanda, Rwanda

Dr. Pierre Claver Rutayisire

College of Business and Economics University of Rwanda Huye-campus BP 117, Butare, RWANDA Tel: +250788864744 Email: p.c.rutayisire@ur.ac.rw ; rutayisirepc@gmail.com   Dr. Egide Ntangungira Kayonga College of Medicine and Health Sciences Po. Box: 3286 Kigali, RWANDA Email: entagungira@ur.ac.rw


6. University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Prof. Esther W. Dungumaro Director of International Relations University of Dar es Salaam P. O. Box 35091 Dar es Salaam, TANZANIA Tel: +255 757 753396 Email: edungumaro@udsm.ac.tz; dungumaro@gmail.com

 

Dr. Lucy Namkinga Molecular Biology & Biotech Department University of Dar es Salaam P. O. Box 35091 Dar es Salaam, TANZANIA Email: odulajalucy@yahoo.com


7. University of Malawi, Malawi

Prof. Kamija Phiri College of Medicine University of Malawi Private Bag 360, Chichiri, Blantyre 3, MALAWI +265 999957048 Email: kamijaphiri@gmail.com   Prof. Adamson S. Muula Department of Community Health College of Medicine University of Malawi Private Bag 360,Blantyre 3, MALAWI Tel: +265 884 233 486 Email: amuula@medcol.mw


8.University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa

Dr. Jude Igumbor

Senior Lecturer, PhD program Wits School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg, SOUTH AFRICA Tel: +27 72 791 59 27 Email: Jude.Igumbor@wits.ac.za ; judeigumbor@yahoo.co.uk


9. University of Nairobi, Kenya

Prof. Kimani Murungaru

Director, Population Studies & Research Institute University of Nairobi P.O. Box 30197 Nairobi, KENYA Tel: +254 20 318262 Ext 28029 Email: murungaruk@uonbi.ac.ke

Dr. Dismas Ongore

Senior Lecturer University of Nairobi School of Public Health P.O. Box 30197 Nairobi, KENYA +254 020 2724639 Email: dongore@uonbi.ac.ke.   Research Organizations


Ifakara Health and Development Research Centre, Tanzania

Prof. Honorati Masanja Project Head Ifakara Health and Development Research Centre P.O. Box 53, Mlabani Passage, Ifakara, TANZANIA Tel: +255 232 625 164; +255 232 625 377 Mobile +255784605046 Email: hmasanja@ihi.or.tz   Dr. Rose Nathan Ifakara Health and Development Research Centre P.O. Box 53, Mlabani Passage, Ifakara, TANZANIA Email: rnathan@ihi.or.tz; rosenathan2001@yahoo.co.uk


African Population and Health Research Center, Kenya

Dr. Chimaraoke Izugbara Director, Research Capacity Strengthening Division African Population and Health Research Center P. O. Box 10787-00100, Nairobi, KENYA Tel: +254-20-2720400/1/2 Email: cizugbara@aphrc.org


Agincourt Health and Population Unit, South Africa

Prof. Kathleen Kahn Associate Professor Health and Population Division School of Public Health University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg, SOUTH AFRICA Tel: +27 11 717 2606 Email: Kathleen.Kahn@wits.ac.za

Elias Tuhereze

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NEC Hands Over Refurbished Mary Stuart Hall to Mak

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Left to Right: MD and CEO NEC-Lt. Gen. James Mugira conducts a symbolic handover of keys to the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe as 91st Guild President-H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James, Principal CEES and Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Deputy University Secretary-Mr. Simon Kizito and Deputy Dean of Students-Dr. Rodney Rugyema witness on 25th July 2025. The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) hands over fully refurbished Mary Stuart Hall. The renovation, which cost UGX 10.5 billion, began on 26th July 2024 and was completed exactly a year later, on 25th July 2025. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) has successfully delivered yet another milestone project to Makerere University with the handover of a fully refurbished Mary Stuart Hall. The renovation, which cost UGX 10.5 billion, began on 26th July 2024 and was completed exactly a year later, on 25th July 2025.

Mary Stuart Hall is one of three major projects entrusted to NEC by the university, the others being the renovation of Lumumba Hall and the construction of a perimeter wall. These developments follow a presidential directive to renovate all halls of residence at Makerere University, aimed at enhancing student welfare and improving living conditions on campus.

Some of the blocks of the renovated Mary Stuart Hall including the Tower (Box). The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) hands over fully refurbished Mary Stuart Hall. The renovation, which cost UGX 10.5 billion, began on 26th July 2024 and was completed exactly a year later, on 25th July 2025. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the blocks of the renovated Mary Stuart Hall including the Tower (Box).

Speaking at the event, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe commended NEC for their exceptional work. “I must thank NEC for the job well done,” he said, adding that “this facility looks better than some hotels.” He also expressed gratitude to the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Mama Janet Museveni, whom he credited as the driving force behind the renovations. He urged students and stakeholders to take care of the newly renovated facility: “Let us try to maintain the facility the way it has been handed over.” The Vice Chancellor emphasized that the purpose of these renovations is to foster an environment conducive for leadership development.

Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Principal of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), represented the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration). He commended the Vice Chancellor for fulfilling his campaign promise to transform university infrastructure and expressed appreciation to the Government for the financial support. “I can report from what I’ve seen, that there is value for money,” he stated. Prof. Muwagga further encouraged student leaders to promote responsible behaviour that protects and preserves university property for future generations.

Lt. Gen. James Mugira and H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James (Rear) inspect of one of the bathroom facilities. The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) hands over fully refurbished Mary Stuart Hall. The renovation, which cost UGX 10.5 billion, began on 26th July 2024 and was completed exactly a year later, on 25th July 2025. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Lt. Gen. James Mugira and H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James (Rear) inspect of one of the bathroom facilities.

Lieutenant General James Mugira, Managing Director of NEC, emphasized the significance of the project, describing the refurbished building as a symbol of “female empowerment and liberation.” He applauded the university leadership for their trust and confidence and reaffirmed NEC’s commitment to quality and timely project delivery. He highlighted the role of proper accommodation in fostering health, safety, academic performance, and social interaction among students. “A healthy mind, in a healthy body,” he said, adding that good housing promotes “safe and hygienic living and physical and mental health.” He also underscored the importance of regular maintenance to preserve the facility and avoid expensive renovations.

Mr. Simon Kizito, Deputy University Secretary equally extended appreciation to the President, the Ministry of Education and Sports, and the Directorate of Estates and Works for their role in the project’s success. He thanked the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development for ensuring that the necessary funds were released on times.

Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogere (White Hard Hat) leads the Vice Chancellor and other officials on a guided tour of the renovated Mary Stuart Hall. The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) hands over fully refurbished Mary Stuart Hall. The renovation, which cost UGX 10.5 billion, began on 26th July 2024 and was completed exactly a year later, on 25th July 2025. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogere (White Hard Hat) leads the Vice Chancellor and other officials on a guided tour of the renovated Mary Stuart Hall.

Representing the Dean of Students’ Office, Dr. Rodney Rugyema hailed the project as a significant milestone in enhancing student welfare. He revealed that Mary Stuart Hall will accommodate 521 students and includes facilities for persons with disabilities, such as lifts and ramps. He pledged to uphold the standards and purpose of the hall.

Guild President H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James expressed his gratitude to NEC and the university administration, particularly applauding the Vice Chancellor’s for his hands-on approach and consistent involvement in the university’s affairs.

The Hall Chairlady Ms. Anthea Ampaire described the reopening as a landmark moment, calling Mary Stuart Hall “a beacon of hope and a sanctuary for students.” She highlighted the importance of providing spaces that empower women and support their academic journeys.

Mary Stuart Hall Chairlady-Ms. Anthea Ampaire (Centre) is joined by officials to cut cake in commemoration of the official handover. The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) hands over fully refurbished Mary Stuart Hall. The renovation, which cost UGX 10.5 billion, began on 26th July 2024 and was completed exactly a year later, on 25th July 2025. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mary Stuart Hall Chairlady-Ms. Anthea Ampaire (Centre) is joined by officials to cut cake in commemoration of the official handover.

Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere, Head of the Department of Architecture at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) who led the Project Management Team, noted that the renovation was a collaborative effort involving both students and staff. He commended all involved for their dedication.

Following this successful handover, NEC is set to begin renovation works on the Centre for Continuing Education (CCE) Hall commonly referred to as Complex Hall, as it continues to implement the presidential directive to revamp student accommodation across public universities.

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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IDI Launches Africa’s Largest Campus-Based 384KWp Solar System

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An elevated shot of the IDI-McKinnell Knowledge Centre (Left) and the Department of Pharmacy Building (Right) with the array of solar panels. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe inaugurated the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) at Makerere University's ground-breaking 384kWp solar-powered electricity grid, Africa’s largest campus-based solar system, July 24, 2024, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) at Makerere University on July 24, 2024 launched a ground-breaking 384kWp solar-powered electricity grid, Africa’s largest campus-based solar system. Inaugurated by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the solar grid marks a significant milestone in strengthening sustainable research infrastructure and improving energy access in Uganda, especially in resource-limited settings.

The launch was not only a celebration of green energy but also of medical innovation, as it coincided with the unveiling of drones designed to deliver life-saving drugs to hard-to-reach areas such as Buvuma and Kalangala Islands. This dual initiative underscores IDI’s commitment to combining technological innovation with public health solutions that have tangible impact.

Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe inaugurated the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) at Makerere University's ground-breaking 384kWp solar-powered electricity grid, Africa’s largest campus-based solar system, July 24, 2024, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe cuts the tap to signal the launch of the facility.

In his remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe expressed deep pride in Makerere University’s academic excellence and innovation culture. “Today, I am very proud to be the Vice-Chancellor of Makerere. We continue to shine because of our centres of excellence, like IDI,” he said. He also emphasized the importance of continued investment in science and technology to combat epidemics, strengthen health systems, and bridge Africa’s persistent energy gap through sustainable options like solar power.

Prof. Samuel Abimerech Luboga, Chair of the Board of Directors at IDI, thanked the university leadership for their consistent support and lauded the solar project’s environmental and social impact. “This project, empowering our campus with renewable energy, demonstrates our commitment to the environmental, social and governance agenda,” he said. Prof. Luboga reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to ensuring that all IDI initiatives deliver real value to communities. “We pledge to continue this oversight and ensure that every investment from solar panels to data labs drives impact and accountability,” he emphasized. He called upon researchers, innovators, and the broader community to rally behind the shared vision of a healthier and more sustainable future.

Ms. Susan Lamunu Shereni, Head of Finance and Administration at IDI, presented an update on the Institute’s sustainability initiatives, revealing that IDI has already installed solar systems in 150 health facilities across Uganda. “Infectious Disease Institute was first founded to address the sustainability concern specifically goal number three of the Sustainable Development Goals which is good health and wellbeing, she said, “but in the process of doing that we’ve addressed other SDGs.” She noted that the solar system continues to generate power even on cloudy days and projects an annual savings of $85,000—enabling a full return on investment within five years. “We will also reduce carbon footpring by about 25,000 kg,” she added.

Left to Right: Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Edward Bbaale, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Prof. Sam Luboga and Dr. Andrew Kambugu chat during a tour of the facility. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe inaugurated the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) at Makerere University's ground-breaking 384kWp solar-powered electricity grid, Africa’s largest campus-based solar system, July 24, 2024, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Left to Right: Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Edward Bbaale, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Prof. Sam Luboga and Dr. Andrew Kambugu chat during a tour of the facility.

The solar project, valued at $380,000, represents a bold step toward achieving energy efficiency and reliability in the delivery of critical healthcare services.

In the same event, IDI also introduced its Medical Drones Project, launched through its Academy—a collaboration between Makerere University and the Ministry of Health established a decade ago. Mr. Patrick, the project coordinator, shared that the drone initiative is targeted at solving transportation challenges in underserved regions such as West Nile and Kalangala. “We have been delivering Antiretroviral drugs (ARV’s) to Kalangala for almost four years now,” he said. He reported impressive outcomes, including a 100% mutation treatment rate in the first 24 months and 95% viral suppression among recipients.

The inauguration was graced by key figures from Uganda’s academic and medical research community, including Dr. Robert Kalyesubula, Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of Physiology at Makerere University College of Health Sciences; Dr. Andrew Kambugu, the Sande-McKinnell Executive Director at IDI; and Prof. David Serwadda, Africa Centre of Excellence Global Council Chair and renowned Professor at the School of Public Health and author of the first-ever paper on HIV/AIDS in Uganda, and the IDI senior management team.

Together, these initiatives reaffirm IDI’s role as a continental leader in health innovation and sustainable development—combining science, energy, and equity in service delivery for the greater good.

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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MUTIC Board Inauguration Marks New Beginning for Innovative Minds

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The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) with the Chair-Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta (3rd Right) and MUTIC Advisory Board Members Left to Right: Mr. Japheth Kawanguzi, Ms. Rhinah Akankunda, Dr. Peter Kimbowa, Dr. David Gonahasa, and Dr. Ivan Engoru after the inauguration on 24th July 2025. Official inauguration of the Advisory Board of Makerere University Technology and Innovation Centre (MUTIC) by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe,24th July 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe on Thursday, July 24, 2025 officially presided over the inauguration of the Advisory Board of Makerere University Technology and Innovation Centre (MUTIC). The move aims to enhance, encourage and nurture innovation and research among the young people and the country at large in order to fight poverty and nurture job creators other than job seekers.

The newly-appointed Advisory Board members of MUTIC are; Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta the Chairperson of the Board representing Makerere University Council, Dr. Cathy IIikor Mbidde, Ag. Manager, MUTIC and Board Secretary, Dr. Dorothy K. Okello-Dean School of Engineering, representing Science-based colleges, Dr. Ivan Engoru from the School of Law representing Humanities-based colleges, Ms. Rhinah Akankunda-91st Guild Minister for Information, Research and Computer Technology representing the Students Guild, Dr. David Gonahasa representing the Ministry for Science, Technology and Innovation, Mr. Japheth Kawanguzi-Team Leader at the Innovation Village representing the Private Sector, and Dr. Peter Kimbowa-Board Member Private Sector Foundation of Uganda (PSFU). Each expressed their appreciation for having been given the opportunity to carry the responsibility and play a role in achieving the University’s goals.

The inauguration event was preceded by a tour of the Makerere University Innovation Pod (Mak UniPod) that highlighted the innovations such as; the new Malaria treatment (Maisha Syrup), new soybean varieties, an Intern Database Management application that tracks internship at the Mak UniPod, a long-range e-bike by Redvers limited, an off-grid irrigation water pump by Matia Ategeka, among other innovations. The board members also toured Mak UniPod’s photo, video and audio studios as well as the Makerere AI and Data Science Research Lab.

Official inauguration of the Advisory Board of Makerere University Technology and Innovation Centre (MUTIC) by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe,24th July 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe presides over the inauguration event.

Speaking at the inauguration of the MUTIC Advisory Board, the Vice Chancellor, Prof Barnabas Nawangwe highlighted the marginalization of Africa and the need for the continent to rise again, despite political and other hurdles. “Africa is gradually awakening”, he said.

 He also discussed Africa’s low involvement in global research, contributing only 3% to the world’s knowledge despite people’s arguments that Africa is the wealthiest continent.

 The Vice Chancellor further emphasized the need for Africa to increase its research and educational investment to improve its development. “Nobody is going to industrialize Africa except its young people through those innovations, through beginning small and big enterprises”. Said Prof. Nawangwe.

In addition to winning research grants and establishing centres of excellence, the Vice Chancellor emphasized the need to invest in the innovation hubs at the University as a way of encouraging the young minds to be innovators. “We have been establishing centers for research and emphasizing the need for products, not just coming up with research for the sake but moving this to commercial products”, he stated.

“We have made progress in Makerere’s strategy to be a more research intensive and become a research-led University”, said Prof. Nawangwe. He acknowledged the innovative work that is going on in the University’s innovative hubs such as the Food and Technology and Business Incubation Centre at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Mak UnIPod and the Makerere AI and Data Science Research Lab at the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS).

Officials that took part in the inauguration with MUTIC Advisory Board Members in the Vice Chancellor's Office. Official inauguration of the Advisory Board of Makerere University Technology and Innovation Centre (MUTIC) by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe,24th July 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Officials that took part in the inauguration with MUTIC Advisory Board Members in the Vice Chancellor’s Office.

However, Prof. Nawangwe regretted that some members of society still demoralize and discourage the innovations of the young people instead of encouraging them to continue being big thinkers and innovators. He attributed this behavior as a mindset problem among the population which he said that if this continued, the nation will never develop. To this, he said that they are going to introduce a mindset course in the University aimed at nurturing innovative and creative minds.

He also explained the role of universities in producing business managers and administrators, as entrepreneurs need to work through Universities in order to access better resources and support. Prof. Nawangwe noted the importance of government funding for innovation, which has steadily increased at Makerere University and the need for Universities to take ownership of these initiatives.  He equally appreciated UNDP Uganda for their support towards establishing the Mak UniPod.

The chairperson of the Advisory Board for MUTIC, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta expressed his appreciation to the University Council and Management for entrusting him with such big responsibility of carrying forward the center to reach greater heights in achieving their goals.

He explained that MUTIC has come at a defining moment in the University’s journey where the demand for research-informed solutions, innovation and meaningful engagement with society has never been greater.

“This center has been designed not just to inspire ideas but to engineer solutions. It will be an engine of innovation, where curiosity is natured, partnerships are cultivated and discoveries are transformed into impact”, said Prof. Ireeta.

He further said, “Through MUTIC, Makerere University will not only respond to societal needs, we will anticipate them. We will shape the future, not merely react to it”.    

Nancy Atwenda

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