“The interdisciplinary PhD in Social Sciences taught at Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR) is an institutionalized programme of Makerere University approved by the University Senate and Council in 2011 and endorsed by the National Council for Higher Education in 2012,”  highlighted Mr. Bruce B. Kabaasa, the Chairperson of Makerere University Appointments Board.

During a special press conference focusing on interdisciplinary PhD in Social Studies held on Tuesday 26th July 2016, Mr. Kabaasa reiterated that the interdisciplinary PhD in Social Sciences offered at MISR is on course and conforming to the regulations governing PhD and research training at Makerere University.

The Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe stressed that Makerere University Management is committed to supporting the development of the interdisciplinary PhD in Social Studies.

“The University Management will continue to work with all stakeholders to support the PhD in Social Studies taught at MISR. It is one of the best social research programmes in Africa,” said Prof. Nawangwe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration).

Mr. Kabaasa informed the media that the Makerere University Appointments Board at a meeting held on Friday 22nd July 2016 finalised the discussion of the Report of the In-Depth investigation into the issues at Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR) carried out from 21st April to 25th May 2016. He pointed out that one of the terms of reference required the Committee to review the management of the PhD programme at MISR.

Guided by the recommendations contained in the Investigation Committee report, Mr. Kabaasa re-affirmed the commitment of Makerere University to strengthening the interdisciplinary PhD in Social Studies at MISR.

To strengthen the PhD Programme, the Makerere University Appointments Board and Makerere University Management agreed as follows:

• The MISR establishment structure will be reviewed to take into account the current mandate of MISR. The review will take into consideration among others, the creation of a post of Deputy Director to ease delegation, transfer of knowledge and management of transition.
• The University will explore alternative financing for the PhD programme in the event of decreased donor funding.
• MISR will continue to follow the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training guidelines in identifying Supervisors.
• The MPhil/PhD programme will be protected as a University programme which needs to be nurtured to maturity.
• All Research fellows at MISR will be required to participate in the PhD programme.

The following Members of the University Management attended the special press conference: Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe-Deputy Vice Chancellor Finance and Administration, Dr Henry Alinaitwe, Mr. Charles Barugahare-University Secretary, Mr. Augustine Tamale-University Bursar, Mrs Mary Tizikara-Director, Human Resources, Mr. Cyriaco Kabagambe-Dean of Students, Mr. Goddy Muhumuza, Acting Director Legal Affairs.

For more information on the interdisciplinary PhD in Social Studies, please log on to:
https://misr.mak.ac.ug/graduate-education

Written by:   Mak Public Relations Office