General

Scholarly Book launched to immortalize Prof. James Patrick Manyenye Ntozi

Published

8 years ago

March 28, 2017

Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda (centre) officially launching the book, on his right is Prof. James Patrick Manyenye Ntozi and left is Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu

Scholars from the field of Demography and Population Studies have written a scholarly tribute to Prof. James Patrick Manyenye Ntozi; celebrating his 45 years of dedicated and distinguished service in the field of demography at Makerere University, Uganda, Africa and beyond.

The book titled: Demography of Uganda and Selected African Countries: Towards more Sustainable Development Pathways was officially launched by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda Rt. Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda at a high profile ceremony that was organized by Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) and the Centre for Population and Applied Statistics (CPAS).

Edited by Prof. John Oucho, Dr. Gideon Rutaremwa and Prof. Jockey Baker Nyakaana, the book will immortalize Professor Ntozi’s work and inspire other demographers and their colleagues elsewhere to undertake a similar exercise for their deserving mentors. “We hope readers will find this book a fitting accolade to a man who dedicated his life to scholarship in demography and through which his students and compatriots alike have laid strong foundation for immortalizing the scholar.”

Speaking to the congregation in the Makerere University Main Hall on 23rd March 2017, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda commended Prof. James Manyenye Ntozi for being a strong fighter with a dedicated spirit in liberating his country from poverty. According to Rt. Hon. Rugunda, Prof. Manyenye Ntozi is a unique and outstanding personality whose works have shaped the field of demography in Makerere University, the nation and indeed the continent. L-R: Tourism Minister Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu, Lt.Gen Ivan Koreta and former EA Legislator Hon Yona Kanyomozi old boys of Prof. James Ntozi share a light moment.

“I congratulate you on this great achievement. I would like to say that your distinguished contribution to the scholarly world and your excellence in the field of Demography and Population Studies has inspired many people around the globe. I am happy to say that you will always be remembered as a famous person that has taught, mentored and nurtured many people on this continent,” the Prime Minister said.

The Prime Minister appreciated Makerere University’s efforts to recognize distinguished academicians and called upon other institutions to emulate Makerere University so that academicians receive the recognition they deserve. He shared concern on the policy of retiring professors, and advised Makerere University Management to engage the concerned Ministries so that the University continues to benefit from the treasure within professors perpetually.

Speaking about the book, the Prime Minister said, “This book is very relevant and specifically talks about the needs of our country Uganda. I therefore thank the authors who contributed articles to this book. I also thank the editors for the wonderful job well done.”

Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu acknowledged Prof. Manyenye Ntozi’s efforts in promoting Makerere University locally and globally through his tremendous achievements in Demography and Population Studies. According to Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu, Prof. Manyenye Ntozi has diligently served Makerere University in various capacities.

“Prof. Manyenye Ntozi has served as a Lecturer, Head of Department, Dean, Member of Senate and Ambassador of the University to the outside world. His unique skills and knowledge in the field of demography, acquired over a period of more than four decades of scholarly work, have been utilized in the world over. This is evidenced by his various appointments to Boards of organizations and parastatals, as well as international engagements as Visiting Scholar and Researcher,” he said.

Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu congratulated Prof. Manyenye Ntozi upon being recognized through a scholarly tribute that presents him as a brilliant academician with remarkable scholarly services in the field of Population studies. Some of Prof. Ntozi's Children and relatives (Second row) in attendance.

“There is truly no greater achievement for an academician than to be recognized by not only your peers but your students as well. Congratulations! The book has been put together by Prof. Ntozi’s compatriots and students across the African continent. It is, therefore, a product of highly organized collaborative effort, achieved with professional support of the Fountain Publishers,” said the Vice Chancellor.

In his keynote address titled Old is Gold; Harnessing Academicians in old Age, John Oucho a Professor of Demography and Geography at the University of Nairobi said that there is a need to respect and fully utilize knowledge and advice of old people. Defining the two terms, Prof. Oucho stated that Old is that experience a person has gained over the years and gold is one of the expensive metals in the metal industry.

Professor Oucho said that the experience that old people like Prof. Ntozi have, is as expensive as gold because they have taken many years to learn the lessons of life as well as accumulating a wealth of experience. “Therefore don't disrespect or neglect them because they are old but do take care of them as precious gold,” he said.

Citing a verse from the book of Exodus, Prof. Oucho encouraged the young generation to respect and show love to the old people since they are a source of knowledge and inspiration to them. “Exodus 20:12 says; “Honor your father, your mother that your days may be prolonged in the land which the LORD your God gives you”. We academicians we are like fathers of our students. Therefore you should respect us through giving us time, listening to us, being polite to us and asking for our advice. We must strive to have a society for all ages including the old and retirees. Discriminating against old academicians is like discriminating your own parents,” he said. Mr. Ben Paul Mungyereza (Second Left) Executive Director, Uganda Bureau of Statistics presenting the plaque to Prof. Ntozi for his meritorious work

In the spirit of harnessing academicians in old age, Prof. Oucho appealed to Makerere University to appoint Prof. James Patrick Manyenye Ntozi-Professor Emeritus.
James Patrick Manyenye Ntozi is a Professor of Population Studies at Makerere University. He is a Medical Demographer and Statistician by training whose distinguished experience is well observed in conducting evaluation, needs assessment and baseline studies at international and national levels. His most recent monitoring and evaluation work included evaluating the PEPFAR project in Nigeria for the USA National Academy of Sciences and Congress (2005 – 2007).

Introducing him, as a great scholar, the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu said Prof. Ntozi’s legacy will live on through his works, scholarship and mentorship. He described Ntozi as a faithful and lovable person, very consistent and focused.

“I have known Ntozi since 1960, he is a dedicated fighter. He is a father who has managed to devote considerable amount of time to bring up his children. Ntozi is an excellent husband to Aidah Ntozi,” he passionately said.

The book titled, Demography of Uganda and Selected African Countries: Towards more Sustainable Development Pathways is a climax of an idea by Prof. Ntozi’s peers and students who thought of writing a paper to recognize their lecturer. When the staff in the Department of Population Studies committed themselves to writing a book, the idea of writing a journal article metamorphosed into a book that would forever immortalize Prof. Manyenye Ntozi.

According to Dr. Abel Nzabona, one of Prof. Ntozi’s students and writer of the book, Prof. Ntozi is Uganda’s most illustrious population demographer. He will always be remembered for establishing the Department of Population Studies at Makerere University; attracting funding to support national and international programmes in the field of population studies and demography; and his track record in scholarship, mentorship and career guidance. He applauded Prof. Ntozi for over 75 papers published in peer reviewed journals.

Highlighting the book writing process, Dr. Nzabona said 15 writers and 4 editors from countries namely Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, Nigeria, France and organizations including, Uganda National Bureau of Standards provided tremendous contributions to the book. He paid special tribute to all authors of the 16 Chapters who produced the material that builds the book. One of the Editors, Dr. Gideon Rutaremwa shared with the audience a brief on the book composition and contents.

It was a nostalgic moment when Prof. Ntozi clad in his academic regalia shared special moments regarding his student life at Makerere University.

“I joined Makerere University in June 1968 as an undergraduate student pursuing Bachelor of Science (Economics and Statistics)-Institute of Statistics and Applied Economics and I completed in March 1971. I registered for my Masters in the same Institute in September 1971 and completed in July 1973. I completed a PhD in Medical Demography in 1977. Because of the political turbulence during the Idi Amin Regime, I stayed in the University of Nairobi for two years. I returned to Makerere University in 1979, and since then, I have remained here despite many temptations in form of greener pastures at regional and international levels. I made a decision to stay at Makerere University to serve my alma mater and my country-Uganda. I did not abandon Makerere University.”

Prof. Ntozi also applauded Prof. Livingstone S. Luboobi, former Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, who was part of the audience for choosing to stay at Makerere University.
During his stay at Makerere University, Prof. Ntozi significantly contributed to the evolution of demography and population studies including mobilization of resources from bodies such as Rockefeller Foundation, World Bank, IDRC and National Population Council among others.

Prof. Ntozi expressed gratitude to his students and the authors for recognizing his contribution to the academia while he is still alive. He thanked the contributors for the scholarly tribute that will forever preserve his legendary work as Uganda’s most illustrious medical Geographer.

“I take this opportunity to appreciate all these efforts. In a special way, I thank Associate Professor Gideon Rutaremwa for spearheading efforts to publish this book. I also thank Prof. John Oucho, from the University of Nairobi for successfully accomplishing the task of Chief Editor of the publication and my wonderful students; I am more delighted to know that my students whom I trained and taught have vividly participated in putting together this piece of scholarly work,” he said.

Prof. Ntozi commended Dr. Fredrick Tumwine, Dr. Abel Nzabona and Mr. John Mushomi for working tirelessly to produce a piece of work that their teacher can proudly identify with. He thanked the College of Business and Management Sciences under the leadership of Dr. Eria Hisali for providing all the support required by the Centre for Population and Applied Statistics (CPAS) to publish the book. [L-R ]Dr. Eria Hisali,Prof. John Oucho and Mrs. Agnes Ssekiboobo

He equally acknowledged the efforts of the Centre for Population and Applied Statistics (CPAS) under the able leadership of Mrs. Ssekiboobo Agnes for successfully hosting this publication process of the book. He also thanked Makerere University and the Government of Uganda for providing an environment that is conducive for scholars to freely write and publish their work.

According to Prof. Ntozi, his recognition will set the precedent at Makerere that more scholars/academicians ought to be recognized for the precious time devoted to the University. He was happy for his tremendous contribution and achievements in the university when he said, “I am happy that I have diligently served Makerere University with passion. I am sure that I will fulfill my decision to stay in my Alma Mater and my country Uganda as long as my life is not in immediate danger,” said James Ntozi.

Prof. James Patrick Manyenye Ntozi received a plaque from Uganda Bureau of Statistics presented by the Executive Director, Mr. Ben Paul Mungyereza in recognition of Prof. Ntozi's outstanding work at Makerere University and invaluable support to Uganda Bureau of Statistics. The plaque was presented to him by the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda. Some of the guests and other university senior staff after seeing off the Prime Minister Rt Hon Rugunda

Dr. Fredrick Ruguma Tumwine who was supervised by Prof. Ntozi both at Masters’ and PhD, praised Prof. Ntozi for changing him from a physical into a human geographer. Representing students taught by the Professor, the overjoyed Tumwine said that Prof. Ntozi will never fade from the minds of his students, owing to the unique and fatherly character he always exuded. “He has always been good at time management and perfect in the way he articulates points. He is a superb supervisor,” he said.

Giving a vote of thanks, the Dean-School of Statistics and Planning, Dr. Robert Wamala thanked the Government, Makerere University, the family of Prof. Ntozi, authors and students for their contribution towards the process of honouring Prof. Ntozi. Dr. Robert Wamala, the Dean-School of Statistics and Planning

The students from the Department of Performing Arts and Film together with the Head of Department Dr. Sylvia Antonia Nannyonga-Tamusuza treated guests to energetic performances including special presentations depicting the academic journey of Professor James Patrick Manyenye Ntozi.

Article by Mak Public Relations Office

General

NEC Hands Over Refurbished Mary Stuart Hall to Mak

Published

20 hours ago

July 25, 2025

Eve Nakyanzi

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 26^th July 2024 and was completed exactly a year later, on 25^th 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.

General

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

Published

22 hours ago

July 25, 2025

Eve Nakyanzi

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.

General

MUTIC Board Inauguration Marks New Beginning for Innovative Minds

Published

1 day ago

July 25, 2025

Nancy Atwenda

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-91^st 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”.