General
Lifelong Learning in Universities: Re-thinking inclusive and equitable quality education
The Deputy Vice Chancellor-Academic Affairs of Makerere University, Dr. Ernest Okello-Ogwang has urged PhD Graduates to disseminate research findings to decision makers, communities, media and the wider public.
“Through research we have been able to discover solutions to community problems. We need to disseminate these findings so that they can benefit society,” emphasized the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs in a speech read by Professor Bernard Bashaasha-Principal of College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
Addressing the congregation comprising invited guests, staff, alumni, students and the media during Dr. Peace Buhwamatsiko Tumuheki’s PhD research dissemination seminar on ‘Life-long learning in practice: Understanding and enabling meaningful participation of non-traditional students in University, the Deputy Vice Chancellor-Academic Affairs commended the Presenter of the day (Friday 26th May 2017)- Dr. Tumuheki for undertaking research on lifelong learning; carrying out research aimed at improving the education system in Uganda; and creating a new generation of pure knowledge when higher education has been transformed from the monopoly of the elite to the right of the masses.
“You have distinguished yourself as a champion in lifelong learning when you pointed out a topic of great importance in the future of the nation. Life-long learning in practice is a vital topic to this country and yet so little is known about it. Our institutions and nation at large are eager to listen to the latest findings. We should be and we are hungry for knowledge,” he vehemently said.
The Chair of the Session, Dr. Ronald Bisaso from the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) underscored the importance of sharing knowledge and research findings for the betterment of society. Dr. Bisaso welcomed Dr. Peace B. Tumuheki who holds a PhD in Lifelong Learning from the University of Groningen, a Master of Arts degree in Development Studies from the Institute of Social Studies in Hague, Netherlands and a Bachelor of Arts with Education degree from Makerere University to make a presentation.
Dr. Tumuheki informed the audience that the main argument of her study is that opening/increasing access alone is not good enough an effort in achieving inclusive and equitable quality education for all. Rather, it is important that in this day and age when higher education has been transformed from the monopoly of the elite to the right of the masses, higher education institutions such as universities must rethink both the way they serve the changed/diverse student populations and their position and purpose in development, as well as in relation to other forms of education.
She highlighted that since the liberalisation of higher education in Uganda in the early 1990s, a lot of changes have taken place in the organisation and provision of university education. The changes are not only seen in the diversification of providers and programmes of study but also in the nature of the students’ body for example in numbers, composition and needs of students.
Dr. Tumuheki’s research findings dwelled on understanding the experiences and participation needs of Non-Traditional Students and to contribute towards enabling their meaningful participation in university education. It was focused on the participation question and needs of students who, prior to liberalization of education, had been excluded (diploma holders) and underrepresented (mature age) in University education.
“For Non-Traditional Students to experience meaningful participation in university education, Universities must take into consideration the changing needs of their students’ population. Universities have to recognize and appreciate the fact that when they opened their doors to 'a new public' like their student populations, they acquired a new identity,” Dr. Tumuheki said.
Speaking on status of the higher education system in Uganda, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Gulu University Prof. George Openjuru, called for the restructuring and development of university policies to benefit all categories of students. According to Prof. Openjuru, the higher education system in Uganda is becoming more diversified hence a need to reform its structure.
He appreciated the work of Dr. Peace Tumuheki that is addressing the challenges that have for a number of years affected the education system of Uganda. Prof. Openjuru believes that understanding and enabling meaningful participation of non-traditional students in higher institutions would help in bridging the knowledge-distance learning gap.
Reiterating the importance of the research, Dr. Tumuheki’s 1st Supervisor on the PhD Programme, Prof. Jacques Zeelen from the University of Groningen, Netherlands said that the research addressed the major challenges facing the education system in Uganda.
“When we look at globalization today, there is acceleration of technology and digital development and we need to work towards transformation to a sustainable society. There are more demands that we should be equipped with skills to use the latest technologies, many of which are outside the education training. Uganda’s education is a preparatory and keeps learners in schools, and then sets them out to the labour market for the rest of their lives.” Prof. Zeelen said.
The Deputy Principal-College of Education and External Studies (CEES) Dr. Anthony Mugagga Muwagga, said that the higher education system needs to be redefined to suit the basic requirements of the economy and to produce graduates who are employable.
“Having centered on lifelong learning, there are so many other issues to be addressed. We need to expand the horizon for our PhD students. Higher education is a complex system and there is need to redefine the role of Universities in education.” Dr. Mugagga Muwagga mentioned.
Contributing to the discussion, Dr. Alex Okot from the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning mentioned that the current education system in Uganda only prepares learners for passing exams, which may leave them with no practical skills. He added that the products of our education need to be equipped with marketable skills to become employable. He appealed to higher institutions of learning to review policies to improve the life of non-traditional students.
“The structure of our education system is discriminative. We have to restructure our policy to be able to sustain our needs. We need to change our postulates about the non-traditional students and we can achieve a millennium development goal. Lifelong learning is not about education institutions, but learning,” Dr. Okot mentioned.
Prior to undertaking her PhD study, she had accumulated 13 years of work experience in the students’ Registry at Makerere University. Since 2005 she served for six years as Faculty Registrar at the School of Computing and Informatics Technology-Makerere University and then for two years as College Registrar at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology-Makerere University. She also taught part-time on the Bachelor of Development Studies programme in the Faculty of Arts. It is from the amalgamation of these experiences that she derived the interest to research into the lifelong learning opportunities of non-traditional students participating in university education.
Story by: Charles Iga, Volunteer,MAK Public Relations Office
The Director of Makerere University Jinja Campus, Associate Professor Ronald Kakungulu-Mayambala, has urged students to familiarise themselves with the Safeguarding policy aimed at creating a safer and more inclusive learning environment.
Speaking during the safeguarding policy sensitization meeting held today Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at the Civil Service College, Jinja, Prof. Kakungulu-Mayambala, emphasized the importance of awareness and adherence to the policy, which seeks to protect students, staff, and other stakeholders from all forms of abuse, harassment, exploitation, and discrimination.
“As Management we want every student to enjoy their stay at the University without being tormented and that can only happen, if students know their rights by reading about different policies on our website. You are meant to be living in a safe environment. We do not want anybody’s dream to be shattered or somebody to drop out from University,” Prof. Kakungulu-Mayambala, said.
In his speech, Prof. Kakungulu-Mayambala, also called upon students who have complaints but do not know the reporting lines, to approach staff safeguarding champions to make sure that they live in a safe environment.
Addressing guests, Emmanuel Muchake, the Guild Administrator at Jinja Campus, pointed out that the launch of the safeguarding policy is timely because as a University, without creating a conducive environment for teaching and learning, they will not have students graduate.
On Friday, April 4,2025, the Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, officially launched the Safeguarding Policy and commended Makerere University for crafting a policy that lays out the University’s framework for embedding viable safeguarding measures into its ethos and all institutional activities and processes to: Identify, detect, and act swiftly on safeguarding risks.
The Safeguarding Policy was developed in response to the growing need for institutions of higher learning to implement proactive measures that address concerns related to student welfare, mental health, gender-based violence, and power imbalances in academic settings.
Some of potential safeguarding risks in Institutions of higher learning include emotional distress, Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (SEAH); material loss, financial exploitation, discrimination and neglect, unfair and illegitimate response to civic engagements, cyber security/threats, psychological and emotional harm, substance abuse and physical assault. Discrimination and neglect which are often high risks for students with disabilities and international students.
The safeguarding policy sensitization meeting in Jinja Campus brought together students and staff in a meaningful dialogue on safeguarding issues affecting learning.
The event was graced by Dr. Rodney Rugyema, from the Dean of Students Office, who emphasized the University’s commitment to the well-being of all its members. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of safeguarding policies in preventing abuse, harassment, exploitation, and other forms of misconduct within the Jinja Campus community.
“Safeguarding is not a one-time action, but a continuous culture of care and accountability. We all have a role to play in ensuring a safe and respectful space for learning and growth,” Dr Rugyema, said.
The sensitization session covered key topics including; recognizing signs of abuse, understanding reporting procedures on the MakSafeSpace and fostering mutual respect among peers.
Participants were encouraged to actively engage and reflect on their roles in upholding safety standards both on and off campus.
Students who attended the sensitization welcomed the initiative, with many expressing optimism that the policy would improve campus safety and encourage victims to come forward without fear of retaliation.
“We have seen issues go unreported in the past because students didn’t know where to turn. This policy provides clarity and assurance that the university is taking these matters seriously,” noted, a third-year student.
The University plans to conduct a series of sensitization workshops and distribute printed copies of the policy to ensure that every member of the campus community is well-informed. This initiative is part of Makerere University‘s broader strategy to reinforce its values of integrity, respect, and protection for all.
The Safeguarding Sensitization Meeting concluded with a collective pledge to uphold safety, dignity, and mutual respect within the University community.
The President of the Republic of Uganda and Visitor of Makerere University, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on 8th April 2025 officially flagged off the Research and Innovations Week 2025 and lauded researchers on progress made in utilizing funds to inform national development.
“The more a society is able to tame and harness nature; natural laws, and use them for improving their life, the more developed that society is, so I am very glad that you seem to be getting the message now,” President Museveni commended.
Citing innovations such as Freza, a nanotechnology-based preservation solution used for either shelf life extension of fruits and vegetables or accelerating ripening, President Museveni observed that such practices exist traditionally and called upon scientists to rise above the inferiority complex that seeks to neglect indigenous science knowledge. He noted, to the joy of the audience, that the annual allocation to the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) was subject to future increment.
“This money we are sending, the 30 billion is endozo/jaribu; you taste and if you like, I will give you more” remarked the President to instantaneous applause from the audience. He nevertheless cautioned researchers in their pursuit of coming up with innovations that make economic sense not to ignore what would be considered taboo according to indigenous knowledge. The President was referring to the proposed use of animal protein to enrich cattle fodder.
The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni in her speech read by the State Minister for Primary Education, Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu commended Makerere University’s upon utilizing Mak-RIF funding to dynamically respond to both national and global needs.
“Today, we gather to celebrate the tangible outcomes of these investments, pioneering innovations, technological advancements, and actionable policy recommendations that continue to propel Uganda forward,” remarked the First Lady.
Hon. Janet Museveni nevertheless called for the strengthening of collaborations between academia, Government, industry and civil society in order to maximize the impact of Mak-RIF research outputs. “This exhibition serves as a platform for these crucial interactions, where research meets policy, academia meets industry, and ideas transform into market-ready solutions.”
Referring to Mak-RIF’s 65 projects identified for commercialization and 79 projects producing actionable policy recommendations as, “proof that we are making strides in the right direction”, the First Lady urged the private sector to take keen interest in the innovations and support their adoption for economic transformation.
The Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation Information, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero described universities as invaluable in the journey to synthesize science in six milestones. These she broke down as; 1) generating knowledge through research, 2) developing technologies, 3) converting technologies into usable products, 4) manufacturing products at industrial scale, 5) building viable businesses and brands that can be sold globally, and 6) ensuring that brands touch the economy through profitability, as well as creating distribution channels, related businesses, and science that is environmentally friendly.
Citing the example of Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC), Hon. Dr. Musenero observed that many products that had their humble beginnings at Makerere University have now reached the market. “Not only have we produced buses, but we have also designed prototypes of SUVs; the common vehicles that we use in Government. Your Excellency, we are asking that Government policy is revised so that we give priority to domestically developed products” she appealed.
Describing the exhibition as the apex of the fulfillment of point number five of the National Resistance Movement’s original ten-point programme, which called for the creation of an integrated and self-sustaining national economy, the Chancellor Dr. Crispus Kiyonga thanked President Museveni for the funding extended to Mak-RIF.
“This exhibition is laying out very relevant innovations and discoveries by our own people; the children of Uganda, taught by Uganda, who are also assisting create other innovators and researchers. That really gets us to the point of being truly self-sustaining as a country” remarked the Chancellor.
“Therefore Mr. President as we approach the next anniversary of Heroes’ Day in June this year,” Dr. Kiyonga continued, “we can reassert that the blood of our Ugandan Heroes was not shed in vain” he concluded.
The Chairperson of Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara in her remarks described the occasion as “not merely a ceremonial event, but a celebration of the transformative role of research and innovation in advancing Uganda’s development agenda.
“Today, we showcase the fruits of years of dedication and ingenuity. The exhibitions you will encounter today are not just academic endeavours – they underscore Makerere University’s enduring role as a centre of excellence, a hub for innovation, and a key partner in national development,” observed Mrs. Magara.
Acknowledging Government’s support to research and innovations, the Chairperson of Council reiterated Makerere University’s commitment to further strengthening the partnership with Government and to pursuing new frontiers of collaboration with industry. “Your Excellency, we extend our deepest appreciation. The establishment of the RIF is a testament to your unwavering commitment to nurturing Uganda’s academic and innovation ecosystem.”
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe acknowledged that Makerere has been spurred on to pursue impactful research thanks to the President’s positive criticism whenever he addresses the staff. “The level of research that you have seen is world-class.”
Prof. Nawangwe reported that over 1,300 awards had been made by Mak-RIF since inception. Additionally, by the end of the Financial Year, 2023/24, a cumulative total of 666 (approximately 50%) projects had completed implementation of their activities and closed out.
The Vice Chancellor took the opportunity to thank UNDP for supporting the establishment of the Makerere University Pod (Mak UniPod). “The University Pod is where researchers are trained to on how to incubate their ideas and turn them into businesses so that they can go out there and create jobs for our youth,” he added.
Prof. Nawangwe concluded by thanking the Government for the funding, the University Council for guiding Management, and the line Ministry for releasing the funds. He equally congratulated the researchers on the enormous work done and urged them to do even more.
A total of 91 exhibitors are showcasing their projects at the Research and Innovations Week 2025.
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