General
Centralised Teaching Facilities Transform Mak Skyline
Cognizant of the changing skyline of Makerere University, the Public Relations team interacted with the Planning and Development Department (PDD); the Unit coordinating the US$29.2million AfDB-HEST project, to get the latest details.
“The University Strategic Plan highlights the need to have in place centralised teaching facilities as a mechanism for management of large student numbers. It was against this background that the central facilities were prioritised in the AfDB-HEST support. Our aim is to ensure that students and staff across the University will benefit from central spaces,” said Dr. Florence Nakayiwa, Director-PDD, Makerere University.
Applauding AfDB for the grant that has enabled Makerere University to implement some of the strategies stipulated in the University Strategic Plan, Dr. Nakayiwa confirmed that the works that will significantly improve the university’s core functions are on schedule.
“We are on schedule to have the facilities commissioned in April 2017,” she said.
The Government through the African Development Bank secured a loan of US$100m to improve science and technology in Higher Education Institutions (AfDB-HEST programme). US$29.2m of this amount was allocated to Makerere University in respect of infrastructure rehabilitation, refurbishment of laboratories, merit based scholarships at PhD, Masters and Undergraduate level, and refresher courses for middle management staff.
Dr. Nakayiwa highlighted that the University Estates and Works Department has supervisory role over all civil works currently being undertaken.
Some of the facilities include:
Central Teaching Facility 1:
Central Facility 1 is the building next to the School of Social Sciences with construction works currently at roofing level. The facility is a four-storeyed building with; fully equipped lecture rooms, seminar/breakaway rooms, a lounge and a fully equipped e-learning laboratory.
Central Teaching Facility 2
Central teaching facility 2 occupies the plot next to the College of Business and Management Sciences-CoBAMs at the former UCB slab. This is a five-storeyed building that will house a state-of-the-art auditorium with a capacity of 1000 seats, flexible and dynamic lecture rooms for both medium and big classes, and seminar/breakaway rooms. The procurement process for equipment and furniture is in the final stages. 
KEY HIGHLIGHTS:
“All facilities designated as centralised will be available for access and utilisation by the staff and students in the respective disciplines,” emphasized Dr. Nakayiwa.
Other Central Facilities include,
a) The Diagnostic Laboratory hosted by the College of Natural Sciences-CoNAS. It is anticipated that all laboratory based units at the University will have access to this facility and its state-of-the-art equipment.
b) The Biotechnology Laboratory based at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences-CAES. Equipment worth US$1million will be installed in this facility.
c) The GIS Laboratory based at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology-CEDAT. Equipment is being procured to upgrade the existing laboratory to a higher level. All Staff and Students in this field will have access to the facility.
d) The Computer Laboratory based at the College of Computing and Information Sciences-CoCIS. 200 computers will be installed for use by the student community.
Other areas of focus supported by the AfDB-HEST:
1) Specialised laboratory rehabilitations. Existing Laboratories in the following colleges are being renovated and refurbished: Physiology Lab in the College of Health Sciences (CHS), Chemistry Laboratory based in the College of Natural Sciences-CoNAS, Science Labs in College of Education and External Sditues (CEES), Materials and Hydraulics Lab in the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology-CEDAT
2) For income generation and resource mobilisation, the University is setting up an incubation centre at the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute (MUARIK) targeting the Dairy Value Chain. Rehabilitation works for the Centre are in final stages, and resources for operationalisation have been received.
3) Scholarships– The support has enhanced staff development of 10 academic staff at the doctoral level (5Female, 5Male) and 12 Masters students in their final year of study for research (5Female, 7Male). Support will also be given to 31 bright but needy undergraduate students (8Female, 23Male). Additionally, middle level management staff have been nominated to participate in various short-term skills development courses.
4) The School of Open and Distance Learning is spearheading the E-Learning activities. A number of staff have been trained to develop e-content. A total of 40 business courses have been fully developed and they are online. The courses are now ready, awaiting their launch to the University community and stakeholders.
5) Bridging the Gap between the University and the Private Sector through Internships: This component is coordinated by Uganda Manufacturers Association. It is aimed at providing students with soft skills that can enable them transition into the work environment. In the first cohort, a total of 292 students from various Colleges in Makerere University were sent to UMA for placement. Of these, 164 (56 %) were placed in 83 companies and agencies in Uganda. 31 of these students were retained by the companies they were placed in. A total of 480 students were trained in the second cohort and forwarded to UMA for placement. 195 (42%) of these had been placed as of September 2016. Only final year students who have completed University education pending their graduation are eligible for this component.
6) Gender, HIV AIDS & Special Needs: A number of activities have been identified under this category. Gender issues will be implemented under Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Special needs under the Dean of Students, and HIV/Aids prevention under the University Health Services.
For any further inquiries and or comments, please contact Makerere University Planning and Development Department (PDD). Telephone: +256 414 542 470 / +256 414 532699, Email: pdd[at]pdd.mak.ac.ug
Source: Mak Planning and Development Department, Mak Public Relations Office
Education
Makerere University signs Memorandum of Understanding with International Rescue Committee to Advance Research, Innovation and Partnerships
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.
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.”
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.
General
Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University encouraged to participate in philanthropy work
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.
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.
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.
“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.
“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.
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.
“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.
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.
Carol Kasujja and Bernard Buteera form the communications team for the Scholars Programme at Makerere University.
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