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Scientists to engage youth in community livelihood and health programs

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To stimulate economic growth and development in African countries, participants at the 5th 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 30th June- 1st 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 5th International 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 5thInternational 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 5th 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 6th -9th 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 (28th and 29th 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

 

 

 

 

Proscovia Nabatte

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Press Statement: Clarification on Issues Raised During the Ongoing Conversations on the X Platform

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Front View of the reconstructed Main Building, Makerere University. Date Taken 8th November 2024. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Thursday, 06 February 2025

Makerere University Management has been keenly following the concerns raised on the X platform. As a public institution, we value constructive criticism and feedback as these present an opportunity to clarify issues and, in the process, enhance service delivery. However, the University Management has noticed several instances of disinformation and outright blackmail towards various University officers and would like to offer the following clarifications:

  1. Allegations of Solicitation of a Bribe by a Member of the University Council

The University Management received an audio recording in which a staff member is allegedly heard soliciting a bribe from colleagues to assist them in accessing higher positions during the recently concluded salary harmonization process. While the staff member in question is an elected representative of the support staff to the governing University Council, he is neither a member of the Appointments Board nor wields influence on its decisions.

Given the severity of the alleged offence and the position of the staff member, the University initiated immediate investigations and interdicted the staff member on Thursday 30th January 2025 to facilitate the investigation process. The staff member will be given an opportunity to present his case through a fair hearing before the Appointments Board.

  1. Appointment of Substantive Deputy Vice Chancellors

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Finance and Administration (DVC F&A) position became vacant after a legal challenge overturned the initial appointment and halted subsequent searches. After the appellant withdrew the cases, the University Council initiated a new search through the Senate. However, a contestant later petitioned, citing non-compliance with guidelines. The University Council referred the matter back to the Senate, which reviewed it on 12th December 2024. The revised report will be considered at the University Council meeting on 11th February 2025.

  1. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVC AA)

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVC AA) position became vacant on 30th November 2023 upon the end of the incumbent’s tenure. While the University Council was conducting an appraisal for possible reappointment, the DVC AA was appointed in an acting capacity. However, before the process concluded, a member of staff challenged the appraisal in court, making the matter sub judice. Consequently, the University Council deferred further consideration until the court resolves the case.

  1. Promotion Requirements for Associate Professors and Professors.

Academic staff promotions at Makerere University follow the Human Resources Manual (HRM), last amended in 2022. Policy changes are initiated by the Senate and take effect upon Council approval. Promotions are based on the criteria in place at the time, as recorded by the Senate and Council. All Associate Professors and Professors undergo rigorous assessment, including mandatory internal and external vetting by internationally recognized subject experts.

  1. Retirement of Associate Professors and Professors Post-60 Years

Makerere University mandates retirement at 60 in accordance with Ugandan law. To retain highly skilled talent, the University Council introduced a post-retirement contract policy under the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA). The Appointments Board grants or renews these contracts based on outstanding performance in teaching, research, grants, and mentorship, subject to available vacancies and wage funds. Before approval, the University Management assesses the impact on staff promotions, ensuring no disadvantage to qualifying staff within a particular Department.

  1. Membership and Leadership of the University Council and its Committees

The University Council membership is constituted in accordance with Section 38(1) of the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA), which outlines the criteria for appointing representatives from various constituencies, including the Government, staff, students, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), persons with disabilities, and Council appointees.

The constituents are responsible for managing the selection process for their respective representatives. University Council members serve four-year terms, which can be renewed by the respective constituents in accordance with Section 38(3) of the UOTIA. It is important to note that no Council member, current or former, has ever served beyond the period specified by law.

The University Council elects its Chairperson and Vice Chairperson in accordance with Section 39 of the UOTIA. Additionally, the Council establishes the Appointments Board and all its Committees in compliance with Section 43 of the UOTIA and Section 38 of the Council Charter.

  1. Recent Policy Reforms at the University

The University Council has implemented key reforms to enhance service delivery and staff accountability. These include a biometric staff attendance system and the digitalization of student services such as application, admission, registration, fee payment, exam records, and graduation. These measures have improved lecture attendance, expedited transcript issuance, and strengthened student support. University Management and the Appointments Board actively monitor staff performance to reward outstanding performance and ensure compliance.

  1. Disciplinary Processes and Actions Involving Some Staff Members

Makerere University enforces disciplinary policies in line with the Human Resources Manual, Public Service Standing Orders, and Ugandan law. Staff who violate these policies face sanctions such as warnings, suspensions, interdictions, and investigations, all conducted with due process before an Appointments Board hearing. Recently, two senior staff members—one a Council member and the other a School Dean were interdicted over allegations of corruption and non-performance. Their interdiction ensures independent investigations without undue influence.

  1. State of the University Infrastructure

With substantial support from the Government, Makerere University has made significant strides in enhancing its critical infrastructure for teaching, research, and student residences/welfare, alongside initiating new infrastructure projects.

Following the phased approach to renovate student halls of residence, the University Management is pleased to report that the renovation of Lumumba Hall was completed in 2024, while that of Mary Stuart Hall is ongoing. On completion of the renovation of Mary Stuart Hall, the Contractors will proceed to Complex Hall.

The University has constructed two (2) new buildings for the School of Law and School of Dentistry. The Main Building was reconstructed and commissioned by His Excellency the President on 2nd October 2024.

In addition, two (2) structures are currently under construction namely the School of Public Health and the vertical extension of the School of Women and Gender Studies. In addition to Government support, we continue to receive support from our partners for infrastructure enhancement.

We Build for the Future

Mak Editor

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Prof. Nawangwe urges young people to take up leadership in innovation for the transformation of Africa

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Participants at the Scholars Council meeting pose for a group photo with Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) in the Freedom Square. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By the Program Communication Team

On Sunday, February 2, 2025, Makerere University hosted the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation.

During the event, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe urged young people to prepare for leadership roles in innovation, especially starting with their communities, if they wish to see the positive transformation they desire in Africa.

 â€śI urge you to connect and network with your peers and discuss how you can form inter-university teams to innovate solutions that will address the development challenges in our communities for the transformation of the African continent.” Prof. Nawangwe remarked.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor, addressing the young people at the event. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor, addressing the young people at the event.

Prof. Nawangwe applauded the Mastercard Foundation for its partnership with Makerere University and Uganda in general, which has uplifting effects on many young people.

“Makerere University and Uganda have made remarkable strides in providing Higher Education to Young People, thanks to the generous support of the Mastercard Foundation, which has contributed significantly to educating the next generation of African leaders. Through valuable initiatives and partnerships, such as the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Makerere University is poised to continue educating young individuals who will significantly impact Uganda’s and Africa’s economic growth.” Prof. Nawangwe noted.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nawangwe, further urged young people to seize the opportunities the Mastercard Foundation and other like-minded development partners presented to improve their lives and communities.

Prof. Nawangwe, flanked by Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, and officials from Mastercard Foundation listening attentively to presentations by young people. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe, flanked by Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, and officials from Mastercard Foundation listening attentively to presentations by young people.

“The Mastercard Foundation has given you the platform and opportunity to be leaders and beacons of change. Embrace this responsibility with courage. Let the core values of the Scholars Program—humility, listening, kindness and respect, co-creation, and impact—guide your actions,” Prof. Nawangwe emphasized.

While speaking at the same event, the Program Director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, enumerated high-level achievements the Program had accomplished for the last decade at Makerere University. She pointed out that in terms of scholarship enrolment, the Program had recruited 1,032 Scholars, of which 76% were Females, 7% were Internationals, 4% were Refugees, and about 1% were Youth with Disabilities.

Prof. Namaalwa further pointed out other post-graduation achievements, including a 94% completion rate of the total number of Scholars enrolled in the Scholars Program. She pointed out that between 2018 and 2025, the Program had graduated 964 Scholars, of which 37% were employed, mainly in the private sector.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director, addressing the audience. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director, addressing the audience.

Prof. Namaalwa revealed that beyond the Scholars Program, the Mastercard Foundation had put other initiatives supporting the university in numerous ways. She pointed out other initiatives such as the e-learning initiative, a COVID-19 Response measure to ensure continuity of Teaching and Learning at Makerere University and the Climate Resilience and Sustainability Collaborative: Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Ghana, the University of Cape Town, and the University of Cambridge, is implementing a new initiative that addresses one of the world’s most significant challenges in recent times—climate change.

Prof. Namaalwa revealed that the Research Collaborative would provide opportunities for MSc and PhD scholarships to African students and encourage young people to enrol as graduate students starting in the academic year 2025/2026.

The event was punctuated with fireside chats, during which young people had an opportunity to discuss a number of topical issues related to entrepreneurship and Transformative leadership. Thereafter, the visiting students were taken on a guided tour around Makerere University.

Mr. Enoch Muwanguzi one of the young entrepreneurs exhibiting a shoe brush he had made during a fire-side chat. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Enoch Muwanguzi one of the young entrepreneurs exhibiting a shoe brush he had made during a fire-side chat.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council comprises student leaders from partner Universities. Each Partner University has one Council Representative.  They represent the needs of Scholars and work with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program teams at each institution, the Mastercard Foundation, and Alumni.

Mak Editor

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CAES, CHS & CoVAB Receive Buses to Enhance Fieldwork, Outreaches

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Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, The three buses parked in the Freedom Square against the backdrop of the Main Building on 3rd February 2025. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

On Monday 3rd February 2025, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe handed over three (3) university buses to the respective leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB).

The new buses mark a significant improvement in mobility and learning for Makerere University students and staff, furthering the institution’s commitment to practical education and community service.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe speaks to the Media at the handover. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe speaks to the Media at the handover.

Speaking at the handover ceremony held at the University’s Freedom Square, Prof. Nawangwe highlighted the significance of the new buses in enhancing teaching and learning. “These buses will play a crucial role in improving students’ practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach,” he said.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) hands over the keys to CoVAB Principal-Prof. Frank N. Mwiine (Left) as Dr. Claire Mugasa (Right) witnesses. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) hands over the keys to CoVAB Principal-Prof. Frank N. Mwiine (Left) as Dr. Claire Mugasa (Right) witnesses.

Prof. Nawangwe expressed gratitude to the Parliament and the Government of Uganda for providing the resources for the new buses, emphasizing their importance in replacing the old fleet, which frequently breaks down. The new 2023 model buses, with a 67-seater capacity, were secured at a cost of UGX 626million each and are expected to save the university significant maintenance costs and improve the learning experience for students.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (3rd L) with the CAES Team from Left to Right: Prof. Donald Kugonza, Principal-Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, Dep. Principal-Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Dr. Revocatus Twinomuhangi, Dr. Lawrence Orikiriza, Ms. Suzan Kyamulabi and Dr. Mildred Ochwo-Ssemakula. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (3rd L) with the CAES Team from Left to Right: Prof. Donald Kugonza, Principal-Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, Dep. Principal-Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Dr. Revocatus Twinomuhangi, Dr. Lawrence Orikiriza, Ms. Suzan Kyamulabi and Dr. Mildred Ochwo-Ssemakula.

Principals from the respective colleges expressed their appreciation for the new buses. Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, Principal of CoVAB, emphasized the importance of the buses for practical training at locations such as Lake Mburo National Park. Associate Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, Principal of CAES, and Associate Prof. Bruce Kirenga, Principal of CHS, highlighted the buses’ role in facilitating community engagement and outreach.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) hands over the keys to CHS Principal-Prof. Bruce Kirenga (Left). Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) hands over the keys to CHS Principal-Prof. Bruce Kirenga (Left).

He explained that the decision to purchase Isuzu buses instead of those manufactured by Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) a Makerere University partner, was based on prior engagement with the former, as well as the need to utilize the allocated funds promptly within the Financial Year, which couldn’t be accomplished at KMC due to their high demand.

Harriet Musinguzi

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