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Scientists to engage youth in community livelihood and health programs

Published

10 years ago

July 12, 2016

Some of the participants of 5th International Scientific Meeting held in the Makerere University Main Hall

To stimulate economic growth and development in African countries, participants at the 5^th International Scientific Meeting emphasized the need to actively engage the youth in designing and implementation of community livelihood and health programs.

“Youth comprise the highest population in most of the African countries. They are bright, energetic young leaders with a wide and open mind. This provides us with a golden opportunity and a need to harness their socio-economic potential, utilize their abilities in research and community development,” stressed the participants.

Convening in the Makerere University Main Hall, from 30^th June- 1^st July 2016, Scientists, Professors and Researchers from different parts of the world shared knowledge and ideas on how to reduce poverty, boost trade, enhance resilience of livelihoods, improve human livelihood, and ensure Africa’s health security.

Participants guided by the theme, Sparkling Innovations for Sustainable livelihoods and Health in Africa, showcased numerous research projects to demonstrate the impact of international and regional partnerships on Sustainable Livelihood and Health in Africa.

The 5^thInternational Scientific Meeting was organized by Makerere University College Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity under the sponsorship of Regional Universities Mediated Partnerships for Enhancing Livelihoods and Health in Africa (RUMPHELA). The conference was officially opened by the Makerere University Deputy Vice Chancellor in-charge of Academic Affairs, Associate Professor Ernest Okello Ogwang.

In a speech read by Associate Professor Okello Ogwang, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu said the is in line with the auspices of partners and the Government of Uganda.

“Through these partners, the College has conducted Short-term training in International Cultural Boma, International Summer Schools, International Scientific Meetings, workshops, in-training leadership and community service learning. Supported laboratories and to date, Government of Uganda has offered more support for the laboratories in Biosecurity and Zoonoses,” he said.

During the conference meeting, participants shared ideas on improving the animal sector with a particular consideration for animal health and safety, production and consumption of healthy and safe animal resource products, provision of healthy and safe grounds to people involved in animal production as well as tapping into the opportunities for job creation and employment.

To achieve this, participants commended the need to develop their scientific research and ideas in line with entrepreneurship and business development with an essential element of income generating skills and job creation. In addition, they encouraged fellow scientists to always provide factual data and information on the various research projects/programs in time to allow an effective and instrumental timeline for youth engagement.

Giving a key note address on improving livelihood, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Gender and Social Development, Mr. Puis Birigimana said that institutions should actively engage the youth when designing and implementing livelihood and community programs. Mr. Birigimana said the youth are more productive, business oriented with an influential effect on the African countries’ economic status.

“Youth constitute the highest population percentage in Uganda. Therefore leaving them behind creates a bigger gap between prosperity and stagnation. We need to make a fruitful engagement with them, especially in scientific programs. This is because youth are more productive, prefer agricultural activities and they are young, bright and energetic,” he said.

Citing the youth livelihood program designed and implemented by the Government of Uganda in order to reduce the high rate of unemployment and poverty among youth, Mr. Birigimana highlighted that the government’s strategy to actively engage the youth has yielded success in poverty alleviation in Uganda. He also mentioned that the project has witnessed more employment benefits, improved the incomes and instilled a saving culture among the youth.

“Always listen to the young people. Interact with them in a cool and humble way. I assure you it works very well. We used this strategy in the Youth Livelihood Program and we recorded success,” said the Permanent Secretary.

Highlighting the role of higher institutions of learning on human capital development, the Principal of Makerere University College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio security, Prof. John David Kabasa said that African countries should address human capacity in the current education system.

Besides designing youth centered livelihood programs, Prof. Kabasa said that the education system should provide the essential element of practical skills where a person is in position to work for oneself and change oneself to a transformative capital.

He reiterated the need to change the current education system of an African child urging that a single person should have several values and skills in addition to the general knowledge.

“Give the youth a livelihood not labor capacity because that was earlier given and no longer exists. As experts we need a paradigm shift. In this current generation, it does not matter how many resources you have. If you don’t know how to use the resources, they will never be enough,” he said.

Prof. Kabasa called for the vocationalization of the education system in Africa. According to him, the current education system has depended so much on infusing knowledge leaving humans with what he termed as malnourished human capacity.

‘’If we teach and lead today as we taught yesterday, we rob our children of tomorrow. There is therefore a need for higher institutions to change the ways of learning in order to deliver knowledge passed on following systematic manner. They need a different thinking package of competences in order to enhance livelihoods,” Prof. Kabasa explained.

The Dean, School of Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory Sciences at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Associate Professor Frank Mwiine recommended the need for Uganda to host several conferences similar to the 5^thInternational Scientific Meeting to provide solutions to emerging societal challenges.

“As you may be aware, Uganda is facing many challenges like any other country in the world. We, scientists should commit ourselves to transforming our societies in order to have a better and meaningful life,” he advised.

Associate Professor Mwiine thanked the organizing committee for ensuring that the 5^th International Scientific Conference was a success. The conference meeting climaxed with a certificate awarding ceremony.

This year’s meeting started with a summer course for international students and collaborators from 6^th -9^th June 2016 to expose participants to one health concepts, food production, biosecurity, hygiene/ safety and public health. This was followed by community outreach activities for two weeks in the Districts of Kampala, Tororo, Mbale, Bukedea, Soroti, Kaberamaido, kibale, Kasese and Kiruhura. Participants were also able to share their field experience in the two days (28^thand 29^th June 2016) international cultural Boma.

Since its inauguration in 2011, the International Scientific Meeting has enabled the College Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-security record more achievements including the transformation of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine to an industrial value chain geared College.

Article by: Mak- Public Relations Office

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Makerere University and World Bank Sign Partnership to Strengthen Environmental and Social Sustainability Capacity

Published

2 days ago

March 6, 2026

Caroline Kainomugisha

A group photo of representatives from various partners at the MOU signing. Signing MoU with International Development Association (IDA), World Bank Group, establishing a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening environmental and social sustainability systems in Uganda and the wider East African region, 5th March 2026, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

On 5^th March 2026, Makerere University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Development Association (IDA), the financing arm of the World Bank Group, establishing a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening environmental and social sustainability systems in Uganda and the wider East African region.

The collaboration brings together Makerere University through the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) and the World Bank to jointly advance training, research, and policy advisory in environmental and social sustainability.

The three-year agreement provides a framework for cooperation focused on building national capacity to manage environmental and social risks associated with large-scale development investments.

Advancing Sustainable Development through Knowledge Partnerships

The partnership will be anchored in the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre (ESSC) at Makerere University, a national hub established to promote applied research, policy engagement, and professional training in environmental and social governance.

Through the Centre, the two institutions will collaborate to strengthen Uganda’s ability to plan and implement development projects in ways that safeguard communities and the environment.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Ms. Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala, the World Bank Country Manager emphasised that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening systems that support sustainable growth.

Ms. Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala giving her remarks during the MOU signing. Signing MoU with International Development Association (IDA), World Bank Group, establishing a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening environmental and social sustainability systems in Uganda and the wider East African region, 5th March 2026, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Ms. Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala giving her remarks during the MOU signing.***

“This partnership with Makerere University is an important step in strengthening Uganda’s systems for environmental and social sustainability. By working through the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre, we aim to build the capacity of professionals across government, the private sector, and development institutions to better manage environmental and social risks and deliver investments that promote sustainable growth while protecting people and the environment.” Ms. Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala, World Bank Country Manager, Uganda, noted.

The partnership will support training, research, and policy advisory activities through the ESSC, helping Uganda pursue a development trajectory that promotes economic growth while protecting people and the environment.

Building National Capacity for Environmental and Social Risk Management

Uganda’s development agenda under the Fourth National Development Plan prioritises large-scale investments in infrastructure, agro-industrialisation, energy, and science and technology. However, such investments require strong environmental and social risk management systems to ensure sustainable outcomes.

The new partnership, therefore, focuses on building a skilled workforce capable of applying international best practices in environmental and social governance.

Under the MoU, Makerere University will design and deliver demand-driven short-course training programs targeting public sector officials, development practitioners, financial institutions, civil society organisations, and private sector actors implementing major projects.

Seven certificate-level short courses have already been developed and approved across multiple colleges at the University. These courses cover areas such as environmental and social risk management, climate risk assessment, construction health and safety, and integrating environmental and social considerations into investment cycles.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Ms. Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala after signing the MOU. Signing MoU with International Development Association (IDA), World Bank Group, establishing a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening environmental and social sustainability systems in Uganda and the wider East African region, 5th March 2026, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Ms. Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala after signing the MOU.***

“Makerere Universityis proud to partner with the World Bank in strengthening Uganda’s capacity to manage environmental and social risks in development investments. Through the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre, we have already developed and approved seven certificate-level short courses across multiple colleges, designed to equip professionals in government, the private sector, and development institutions with practical skills to plan and implement sustainable projects. This collaboration reflects Makerere’s commitment to providing knowledge-driven solutions that support Uganda’s development while safeguarding communities and the environment.” Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe noted.

Strengthening Collaboration between Academia and Development Partners

As part of the agreement, the World Bank will support the development and delivery of the training programs, including conducting Training of Trainers (ToT) on the Bank’s Environment and Social Standards and international best practices.

The Bank will also leverage its convening power to encourage participation from development partners, government institutions, and project implementers, while supporting impact monitoring of trained professionals to document improvements in project performance and job creation.

The collaboration will further promote professional networking, policy dialogue, knowledge exchange, and the development of knowledge hubs containing environmental and social tools, databases, and resources for practitioners.

Positioning Makerere as a Regional Knowledge Hub

Through this partnership, Makerere University seeks to position the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre as a leading knowledge hub for environmental and social governance in Africa.

By combining academic expertise with the World Bank’s global experience in development financing and technical assistance, the initiative is expected to strengthen the institutional capacity required to deliver sustainable and climate-resilient investments in Uganda.

The partnership also aligns with the World Bank’s broader commitment to supporting Uganda’s development agenda and strengthening country systems for environmental and social sustainability.

Together, the two institutions aim to equip professionals across government, the private sector, and development organizations with the skills required to ensure that Uganda’s development pathway remains inclusive, responsible, and environmentally sustainable.

Caroline Kainomugisha is the Communications Officer, Advancement Office, Makerere University

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Makerere University Explores Expanded Partnership with Stanbic Bank to Advance Innovation and Investment

Published

2 days ago

March 6, 2026

Caroline Kainomugisha

A photo showing the meeting delegation from Stanbic Bank Uganda and Makerere University. Vice Chancellor, Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe courtesy visit to Stanbic Bank Uganda’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mumba Kalifungwa, 5th March 2026, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

On 5^th March 2025, the Vice Chancellor, Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, paid a courtesy visit to Stanbic Bank Uganda’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mumba Kalifungwa. The purpose of the visit was to explore areas for further collaboration with Stanbic Bank Uganda to strengthen innovation, entrepreneurship, and strategic investment.

The engagement reaffirmed the long-standing relationship between the two institutions and provided an opportunity to explore how academia and the financial sector can work together to unlock opportunities for students, staff, alumni, and the broader Ugandan community.

Discussions during the meeting focused on innovation and entrepreneurship support, student development programs, infrastructure partnerships, and investment opportunities linked to the University’s strategic development agenda.

Driving Innovation and Youth Entrepreneurship

During the engagement, the Vice Chancellor highlighted Makerere’s continued efforts to position itself as a research-led and innovation-driven university, emphasising the importance of partnerships with industry in translating academic research and ideas into practical solutions.

He underscored the need to empower young people with the skills and support required to create enterprises and generate employment opportunities, given Uganda’s fast-growing population, particularly the mushrooming young population. According to UBOS, by 2024, the young population was approximately 22.8 million persons out of a total population of 45.9 million people.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe giving his remark during the meeting. Vice Chancellor, Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe courtesy visit to Stanbic Bank Uganda’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mumba Kalifungwa, 5th March 2026, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe giving his remark during the meeting.***

“If we do not support young people to innovate and create enterprises, we risk facing serious economic and social challenges. The employment of the future will increasingly be created by young people themselves,” he noted.

Among the proposals discussed was the possibility of establishing a Stanbic-supported innovation competition, aimed at stimulating entrepreneurship and providing a platform for students and young innovators to transform ideas into viable businesses.

Such an initiative could build on existing innovation and incubation programs run at Makerere and Stanbic Bank while strengthening collaboration between academia and the private sector in supporting enterprise development.

Expanding Strategic Collaboration

Speaking during the meeting, Mr Mumba Kalifungwa, the Chief Executive Officer of Stanbic Bank Uganda reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Makerere University.

He noted that while the bank has long provided financial services to the university and its staff, there is a significant opportunity to deepen collaboration in areas that generate broader societal impact.

Mr. Mumba Kalifungwa addressing the meeting. Vice Chancellor, Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe courtesy visit to Stanbic Bank Uganda’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mumba Kalifungwa, 5th March 2026, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Mr. Mumba Kalifungwa addressing the meeting.***

“As an institution, we are interested in partnerships that go beyond financial services to create meaningful impact in society through the Stanbic Bank positive impact agenda. Education is one of the most important sectors through which we can drive that impact,” he noted.

The CEO also highlighted Stanbic Bank’s National Schools Championship program, which promotes innovation among secondary school students across Uganda, noting that a similar approach could potentially inspire initiatives at the university level.

Exploring Investment and Infrastructure Opportunities

The meeting also explored opportunities for collaboration in investment and commercialisation initiatives linked to university infrastructure and land assets.

University representatives shared insights into ongoing efforts to explore public–private partnership (PPP) models for strategic investments aimed at improving infrastructure and unlocking value from underutilised university assets.

Potential development opportunities discussed include projects related to hospitality facilities, commercial spaces, and other revenue-generating infrastructure within and around the university. Such initiatives could provide sustainable revenue streams for the university while creating opportunities for private sector participation in campus development.

Supporting Students, Staff, and Alumni

Additional discussions focused on expanding programs that benefit the wider Makerere community. These include financial literacy initiatives for students, expanded internship and graduate training opportunities, and collaborative programs to support student entrepreneurship and enterprise development.

The meeting also explored opportunities for collaboration in alumni engagement, leveraging Makerere’s extensive global alumni network to strengthen partnerships between the university and industry.

Programs aimed at improving financial preparedness and retirement planning for staff were also discussed, alongside potential housing and asset financing solutions tailored to the needs of university employees.

From the Left: Mr Awel Uwihanganye, Ms Hawa Kajumba and Ms Caroline Kainomugisha. Vice Chancellor, Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe courtesy visit to Stanbic Bank Uganda’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mumba Kalifungwa, 5th March 2026, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***From the Left: Mr Awel Uwihanganye, Ms Hawa Kajumba and Ms Caroline Kainomugisha.***

“Through this partnership, we are exploring opportunities that support the entire Makerere community, from financial literacy and entrepreneurship programs for students to internship pathways, alumni engagement, and financial preparedness initiatives for staff. These efforts will be anchored within the renewed collaboration framework between Makerere University and Stanbic Bank Uganda,” said Mr Awel Uwihanganye, Chief Advancement Officer.

The Chief Advancement Officer further noted that these initiatives are expected to be anchored within a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Makerere University and Stanbic Bank.

A Shared Vision for Impact

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe gifting, Mr. Mumba Kalifungwa the University Centennial Coffee table booklet. Vice Chancellor, Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe courtesy visit to Stanbic Bank Uganda’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mumba Kalifungwa, 5th March 2026, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe gifting, Mr. Mumba Kalifungwa the University Centennial Coffee table booklet.***

Both institutions expressed optimism about the potential of the partnership to contribute to national development by supporting innovation, enterprise creation, and the development of future leaders.

As Makerere University continues to strengthen its role as a leading research and innovation institution in Africa, partnerships with forward-looking institutions such as Stanbic Bank Uganda remain critical in advancing the university’s mission of generating knowledge, nurturing talent, and driving solutions that address national and global challenges.

Caroline Kainomugisha is the Communications Officer, Advancement Office, Makerere University

General

Extension of Application Deadline for Diploma/Degree Holders 2026/2027

Published

3 days ago

March 5, 2026

Mak Editor

A mid-morning shot of the Senate Building as seen from the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility. Date taken: 18th May 2023. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Academic Registrar, Makerere University informs all intending applicants for Private and Government Sponsorship for the 2026/2027 Academic Year that the deadline has been extended from 27^th February, 2026 to Friday 13^th March, 2026.

Applicants who have already applied need not apply.

For any additional information, refer to Announcements and requirements for Diploma/Degree holders Entry Scheme for Undergraduate programmes for 2026/2027 Academic Year, click the links below.

Privately Sponsored: https://news.mak.ac.ug/2026/03/advert-admissions-for-diploma-degree-holders-under-private-sponsorship-2026-27/

Government Sponsored: https://news.mak.ac.ug/2026/03/call-for-applications-diploma-holders-under-government-sponsorship-2026-2027/

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

Makerere-AR-Extension_Diploma_Degree-Holder-Applications-2026-2027 Download