General
New Makerere University Vice Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe Installed
The newly appointed Vice Chancellor Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe has been installed.
Prof. Nawangwe becomes the 11th Vice Chancellor of Makerere University since the University was established as an autonomous institution in 1970.
Nawangwe replaces Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu after expiry of his five year term of service from 1st September, 2012-31st August, 2017.
Makerere University Chancellor Prof. Ezra Suruma performed the Installation ceremony.
The Chairman University Council Eng. Dr. Wana Etyem presented tokens to the outgoing Vice Chancellor Prof. John-Ddumba-Ssentamu in recognition of his dedicated service to Makerere University and having risen through ranks to that important position.
The tokens included the Certificate of Service, University Memorable Art piece, and three plaques from the University Senate, MUASA and MASA staff associations.
H.E the President of the Republic of Uganda and Visitor to Makerere University Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni graced the occasion as Chief Guest. 
The Minister of Education, Sports, Science and Technology, Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni was represented by the State Minister in charge of Primary Education and Woman MP Wakiso district Hon. Rosemary Sseninde.
The colorful Installation Ceremony was held in Makerere University Main Hall on 14th September, 2017 and attended by high level dignitaries including representatives from government ministries and departments, Members of Parliament, the diplomatic Corps and Judges of the Judicature and religious leaders.
Also present were Chancellors and former Chancellors, Chairperson and members of the University Council, former Vice Chancellors, Vice Chancellors, Rectors and Principals of other universities and institutions.
The function was also attended by members of the University Senate, staff from Makerere University, distinguished visitors, the student’s guild and media.
In his speech, President Museveni congratulated the new Vice Chancellor upon his election and installation and saluted the outgoing Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu for the work well done during his five year term.
President Museveni observed that the University Main Hall with a sitting capacity of 500 people could no longer accommodate the numerous internal and external stakeholders invited to attend University functions. He pledged Government support to reconstruct a spacious Conference hall that matches the current trend and accommodate bigger numbers.
The President said Makerere and other universities must play their role by offering programs that offer knowledge and skills for job and wealth creation.
“In my opinion, Universities in Africa must be centres of three things; ideology, technology and intellectuality.
Education in Africa is not mere passing of knowledge, we are learning in order to catch up,” Museveni said.
The President told participants that Africa was the origin of all human beings, earliest civilization and modern religion but in the last 500 years, the continent has been marred by problems of slave trade, colonialism, neo-colonialism, marginalization, bad governance, disease and genocide among others.
“We can’t have educated people with no direction. We don’t want scholars who are not contributing to society wellbeing. Academic independence does not mean academic abstinence and not being part of the struggle to liberate people,” he said.
The Visitor commended the science based colleges for carrying out research, mentoring many people and generating innovations in very difficult conditions.
“Faculties of Sciences are already doing their part and I must congratulate them. Dr. Muranga, Kyamuhangire, Banadda, Togboa, Musasizi and others have patents on their nails that is why I was happy to bring the Presidential initiative for Science and Technology and I will bring more money to support research, patenting and to commercialize patents,” the Fountain of Honor pledged.
The President advised the new Vice chancellor to embark on the curriculum review especially in the social sciences and economics to ensure that graduates take courses that are market oriented for employability and job creation.
“The problem of Makerere University is these courses that are not market oriented. One of the biggest tasks is to reform these courses and concentrate on disciplines which have demand on the market.
Makerere must sit down and see how we can link up with the department of political science and economics and analyze where the country is heading with graduates who are spending time on streets looking for jobs,” President Museveni said.
He enumerated five sectors where jobs and wealth can be found including commercial agriculture, industry, service , ICT and public service.
Speaking on financing, President Museveni applauded the incoming Vice Chancellor’s strategy to use University land to construct facilities to generate income. He said government was now sending 150 billion shillings annually to Makerere University and will be supporting the University if it focuses on commercial reforms.
He also advised management to build facilities through partnerships and shares in addition to generating money from investments.
On the issue of land grabbing, the President said that the Ministry of Lands will cancel all titles built on University land so that those in the habit of grabbing public land lose.
Museveni also pledged to solve the issue of salaries once the University finalises with the issue of curriculum reforms. This, he said, will be handled by the Salary Review Commission in the Ministry of Public Service.
In a speech read by the State Minister for Primary Education Hon. Rosemary Sseninde, the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Hon. Janet Museveni described the installation ceremony as an important day in the history of Makerere University.
Mrs. Museveni commended Makerere University for making great strides in ensuring the maintenance of standards, quality and staying relevant in all aspects of University education, training and research.
“I personally believe that a tradition such as today’s installation ceremony creates a link between the past and present. It reminds us of what Makerere University was in the times past as well as where we are heading,” she said.
She said Government recognizes University education as an important cornerstone in the achievement of Vision 2020 and have a responsibility to produce relevant human resources that will drive the country towards a knowledge based economy.
The Minister said she was cognizant of the challenges facing Makerere University including inadequate funding, inadequate and poor infrastructure, inadequate quality control and assurance structures among others.
The Minister reported that government had already instituted a committee headed by the Ministry of Public Service to harmonize salaries in all public Universities.
“The pledge by H.E the President to enhance salaries for staff in public universities still stands and is being done in a phased manner.
Government is committed to this course and will continue implementing the President’s pledge until it is fulfilled,” she promised.
The Hon. Minister expressed happiness that the University Management and the student leadership had come to a mutual agreement regarding many strikes arising from the university fees policy. She appealed to the students ‘community to learn to constructively engage in dialogue to resolve burning issues.
“As Government we are waiting for the Visitation Committee report which will guide us on addressing the issue of the unit cost”.
Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni appreciated the role played by Makerere University in areas of research and training saying government would like to enhance the role played by universities in implementation of government programmes in driving the country to vision 2020.
The Minister also expressed happiness that the new leadership of Makerere was planning to attract partners that can develop the University land around Kampala and other parts of the country as a means of increasing revenue for the university.
She however warned that it had come to her attention that some individuals have tried to grab some pieces of Makerere University land.
“This is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. I appeal to the University to use Justice Bamugereire’s Land Inquiry Commission to expose these individuals and if you need help please do not hesitate to let me know,” The First Lady stated.
Mrs. Museveni commended the University for acquiring two centralized teaching facilities from the government secured loan from the World Bank worth 29 million USD adding that that the ministry was committed to working with University Management led by Prof. Nawangwe to make a better work place for staff and students.
She welcomed and appreciated all partnerships that Makerere University has initiated with international institutions already impacting on Uganda positively. She pointed out the Israel Agro-studies program which she said Government was optimistic that it will improve the agricultural sector.
To the outgoing Vice Chancellor-Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu, the Honourable Minister wished him success in his future endeavors and continued contribution to the country as Professor of Economics.
To the new Vice Chancellor, Mrs. Janet Museveni was optimistic that with his experience as leader and manager at various levels, Prof. Nawangwe will take the University to another level.
The Chancellor Makerere University Prof. Ezra Suruma welcomed all to the installation ceremony and specifically the President for sparing time from his tight schedule to attend.
Prof. Suruma also thanked the Outgoing Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu upon his successful completion of his term of office and for the achievements recorded in the past five years.
“I congratulate him for his commitment to Makerere University, for staying on and eventually rising to head this prestigious institution. Thank you Professor for your endurance and persistence in this tough position as Chief Administrator Makerere University,” The Chancellor said.
Prof. Suruma welcomed Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe upon his appointment and installation as Vice Chancellor.
“ As we have all heard, Prof. Nawangwe is a man of vast knowledge, experience and wisdom. He has distinguished himself in teaching, in college leadership and in administration. He has competed and won a free and fair race to become the Chief Executive Officer of this great institution,” The Professor noted.
As Chancellor, Prof. Suruma advised Prof. Nawangwe to encourage both faculty and students to commit themselves more than ever before to intellectual and moral discipline.
“We must be committed to the pursuit of knowledge and discovery in a continuous changing and complex world. But we must be equally committed to use that knowledge morally and patriotically,” he said.
Prof. Suruma expressed hope that under the new leadership of Prof. Nawangwe, Makerere University will be renowned as bastion of moral conduct and academic integrity. He pledged to do everything possible to support the Nawangwe administration and promote the good name of Makerere University.
Prof. Suruma recognized the contribution made by Government of Uganda to Makerere University, the development partners, Members of University Management, Unit heads, the Senate, University Council, staff associations and the students’ leadership.
The Chairperson Makerere University Council Eng. Dr. Wana Etyem reported that Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu assumed office at a time when the University was not totally settled and there were many issues that required both immediate and long-term solutions.
He explained that while the many challenges Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu faced on assumption of office have not been fully addressed, a number of improvements have been recorded. Some of the improvements include, forging collaborations with many universities and development partners, creation of good rapport with Government, Construction of new facilities, facelift of the main gate, and establishment of the Makerere University Holdings Company and maintaining single digit position among African Universities.
“Today I pay tribute to Professor Ddumba-SSentamu for the service he has rendered to Makerere and the country in the last five years.
Council wishes to thank him for his cooperation even during the most trying times that we have lived through during his tenure,” Etyemu said.
Eng. Dr. Etyem also noted that Prof. Nawangwe was coming in at a time when Makerere is facing many internal and external challenges just as his predecessor faced.
This he enumerated include endemic causes of staff strikes that result to university closure, large student numbers putting pressure on space, crisis of confidence with staff and students involved in unethical behavior among others.
Eng. Etyem was hopeful that since the incoming Vice Chancellor Prof. Nawangwe had been in Makerere University since 1983 at various academic and administrative levels, he understood fairly well the challenges of the University.
“While the UOTIA Act as amended states that your responsibility as Vice Chancellor is responsible for academic, administrative and financial affairs of the university, it is incumbent upon you to unbundle your role so that you are not bogged down with mundane daily administrative issues.”
You must focus on key strategic issues that benefit Makerere University and the nation. You are the focal point for Makerere. You are the Chief Public Relations Officer. You are the ambassador Extra ordinary and Plenipotentiary for Makerere University.
We would like to see firm action on curbing malpractices in the academic arena that erode trust in Makerere’s degrees,” Etyem advised the new Vice Chancellor.
The Council Chair re-emphasized that as Chief Executive Officer, the new Vice Chancellor must lead by example, show a spirit of statesmanship and put behind petty differences, real or perceived.
To the staff, Etyem requested all to cooperate with the new Vice Chancellor. “The three staff associations have pending issues that are not resolved by the University and Government. I would like to use this occasion to appeal to members of MUASA, MASA and NUEI to allow the new Vice Chancellor find his bearing while dialogue continues.
“The students who are here to get knowledge will be looking to your fatherly stewardship of the University. Pay attention to their concerns quickly. You have your immediate subordinates to support you; use them,” Council Chair advised.
He appreciated the Chancellor and Government of Uganda for the support and guidance they continue to render in managing University affairs.
Outgoing Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba -Ssentamu was thankful to God for the provision of the necessary support systems that enabled him to succeed in all circumstances.
Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu said, it had been a great honor and privilege to have served Makerere University, first as a special Assistant in 1977 and rising through the ranks to the position of Professor of Economics and Chief Executive of the University as Vice Chancellor.
In his hand over report, Professor Ddumba-Ssentamu highlighted responsibilities of Vice Chancellor, issues in the Human Resource Directorate, Student numbers and affairs, Financial standing of the University; challenges facing the university, work in progress and pending activities and achievements during his term of office.
Among key milestone, Prof Ddumba highlighted included infrastructure development, salary enhancement, establishment of the Makerere Holdings Company and Endownment fund and staff development and training.
He reported that the number of staff trained at PhD level increased from 420-732 while a total of 67,256 students graduated in the same period.
He said the total number of PhD during this period was 316. Of these 71.5%were male and 28.5 % were female.
“I am happy to note, I am leaving at a time when Makerere University is ranked 4th on the African continent according to the latest edition of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings of universities in Africa 2017.
Consistently Makerere University has been among the top 10 universities in Africa. At this juncture, I would like to thank the entire academic staff and the top 10 recognized researchers in the region, Prof. Moses Kamya, Prof. Fred Wabwire, Dr. Sewankambo, Prof. Noble Banadda, Prof. Fred Wabwire Mangeni, Dr. James Tumwine, Prof. Phillipa Musoke, Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, Prof. Nazarius Tumwesigye Mbona and Prof. Peter Waiswa,” Prof. Ddumba acknowledged.
Despite the achievements Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu enumerated some of the pending activities and work in progress. These included drafting the 10 year University Strategic plan, review of the collegiate system, approval of School of Law to collegiate status and putting in place a staff medical insurance scheme.
Other pending tasks he said are, construction of the students center and perimeter wall, follow up on works under Phase II of the MoU and KCCA, launching the African Centres of Excellence, follow up the Presidential pledge for the conference Hall and perimeter wall, completion of the projects under the AfDB HEST Program and takeover of Makerere University Hospital by College of Health Sciences among others.
In the same report Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu tabled six recommendations to University Council and University Management for consideration.
They included the continuous review of academic programs, streamlining human resources directorate, increasing the budget for ICT Infrastructure and innovation and stronger monitoring and evaluation of university core function of teaching and learning, research and innovations as well as knowledge transfer partnerships and networking.
Other recommendations were strengthening the Department of Planning and Development and strengthening the international office.
He recognized and appreciated all university stake holders for the support received during his term including H.E the president, development partners, individual ministries and organs, office of the Vice Chancellor, the University Council and management, college principals, Senate, staff associations, Convocation, Uganda Police, Heads of missions, Makerere entire staff and students community .
“I am happy to pass on the mantle to Professor Barnabas Nawangwe who has been part of my management as Deputy Vice Chancellor Finance and Administration.
Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, you are aware of the challenges of this university and I have no doubt that you have the solutions. I call upon members of Makerere University to give you support for the good of our institution.![[L-R] The Chaplain St Augustine Chapel Rev. Fr. Josephat Ddungu (led the opening prayer), The Chaplain St Francis Chapel Rev Canon Amos Turyahabwe, Vice Chancellor Muni University Prof. Christine Dranzoa and Professor Mary Jossy Nakandha Okwakol](http://news2.mak.ac.ug/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/inlineImages_josephat-ddungu.jpg)
“Prof. Nawangwe, I wish you a very fruitful term of office as Vice Chancellor and may God continue to guide you in your service to Makerere University to its desired position- To be a leading institution for academic excellence and innovations in Africa,” Out going Vice Chancellor Prof. Ddumba-Ssenatmu said.
In his acceptance speech, the New Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe thanked God for his grace and benevolence in giving Ugandans a great country, a great university and for enabling him to witness his own dream of becoming Vice Chancellor of the great Makerere University.
He thanked H.E the President for gracing the occasion and all dignitaries, staff and students, former administrators and managers of Makerere University for their presence, contribution to Makerere University and for the trust placed in him by appointing him as Vice Chancellor.
Prof. Nawangwe noted that for the past two decades the university has experienced a number of challenges mostly due to inadequate funding adversely affecting staff welfare.
This he said include, several incidences of unrest,, loosing land to grabbers, dropping Non –Tax revenues, heavy debt burden and lack of an integrated information management system affecting university core functions.
Nawangwe however, recognized Government for the timely intervention in enhancing staff salaries giving much needed breathing space to the university.
He urged Government to take the pledge of enhancing the salary of a professor up to shs. 15million and taking over the entire wage bill to its conclusive end in the shortest time possible.
In his strategy Prof. Nawangwe said Makerere University must be repositioned decisively to contribute to Uganda’s development goals.
He said his management strategy was embedded in four strategic directions including: Rebranding and quality of service delivery, Academic reforms, Administrative and Financial Restructuring and Sustainability and, Institutional and Human Resource development.
Under rebranding, Nawangwe said all staff will re-train in customer care and put mechanisms that will improve all processes that enable students to have a holistic experience of university life.
“The intervention will include introduction of central examination marking to minimize delays in release of students’ results and also be able to issue testimonials and transcripts to students in timely manner, institute a monitoring and evaluation tool to track teaching and learning, strengthen committees that deal with sexual harassment,” He said.
Nawangwe said, efforts will be made to redevelop the sports facilities to positively impact on students minds rather than engaging in riots, by redeveloping the main sports ground into a multipurpose stadium.
Under Academic reforms, Prof. Nawangwe said, they will restructure all courses and programmes to make them more practical and relevant to the needs of society, operationalize e-learning and distance education and aggressively move towards increasing the proportion of graduate students.
“We will gradually manage undergraduate student numbers and aggressively increase the graduate student numbers to enhance research capacity and output leading to increased innovation.
We will engage Government with a view that Government re-instates sponsorship of graduate programs and operationalize the university press to enable researchers publish locally.
Additionally, we shall establish a technology transfer office to help commercialize the many innovations by students and staff,” he said.![[L-R] Vice Chancellor Busitema University - Professor Mary Jossy Nakandha Okwakol, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation and Sheema County North MP Hon. Dr. Elioda Tumwesigye, Vice-chancellor Mbarara University of Science and Technology- Prof. Celestino Obua, Gity Behravan- First Secretary Research Cooperation Swedish Embassy, Dr Ernest Okello Ogwang, First Deputy Vice Chancellor(Academic Affairs), Makerere University](http://news2.mak.ac.ug/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/inlineImages_vcs-minister.jpg)
Under Administrative and Financial Restructuring and Sustainability, Prof. Nawangwe said they will embark on an ambitious program to invest on the university prime land by putting up a teaching hospital, five star hotel, upper and middle income apartments and modern students hostels.
Other strategies included engaging the private sector with a plan to secure buy-in and investment in the projects and lobbying government to take over the entire wage bill.
In addition, Prof. Nawangwe said, they will establish research grants offices in all colleges, to increase research revenue, involve students in the management of some functions to reduce expenditure and streamline management at the center and colleges by making management more inclusive.
Under institutional and Human Resource Development, the new Vice Chancellor said they will continue with staff development plans using own resources and with support from development partners, continue lobbying government to fully implement the pledge to enhance salaries.
“We will operationalize the health insurance scheme effective 2018. We will establish housing support schemes in collaboration with other stakeholders and operationalize the management information system developed by the college of health sciences.
Prof. Nawangwe in his concluding remarks stated that Makerere is a great university by all standards and can and will become even greater and more relevant to the country.
He said in order to achieve that, staff must uphold professional integrity while students must exercise maximum discipline.
“Uganda has made enormous sacrifices and invested in us, we must give back to our dear motherland in double measure.
I wish to make this solemn promise; That I will endeavor to execute the authority entrusted to me with maximum transparency and absolute humility, in order to provide much needed leadership to my large team of more than 5000 employees, so that TOGETHER, we can lift Makerere to the epitome of academic excellence and make Uganda proud, God being my guide,” he pledged.
The Chairperson Vice Chancellor Search Committee Hon. Irene Ovonji-Odida on behalf of the committee reiterated pleasure in witnessing the successful conclusion of the Vice Chancellor Search process that kicked off in March 2017.
I am deeply appreciative of the commitment, integrity and professionalism of the 2017 Search Committee comprising Mr. Bruce Balaba Kabaasa, Dr. Betty Ezati, Dr. Frank Mwine and Prof. Joseph Y T Mugisha.
In execution of this task, we always maintained that the search committee was designed to be fair, transparent and competitive in order to produce the best possible outcome.
We understood the significance of the role of the Vice Chancellor as CEO of the University as a leader, strategic thinker, team builder and champion, who puts the entire university community at the centre of Makerere but also connects it to the wider community beyond,” Ovonji said.
Hon Ovonji -Odida reported that when the Search Committee Report was presented to the University Senate on 28th June, 2017, the report was endorsed in its entirety and the three candidates recommended in their order of performance.
“Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Edward Kirumira and Prof. Venansius Baryamureeba were forwarded to the University Council. When Council voted, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe again emerged the best.
We heartily congratulate you Barnabas and look forward to collaborating, supporting and holding you to account in your five year tenure as Vice Chancellor Makerere University.
It is my hope that you will use your power wisely to build, to nurture, to grow Makerere and its role in shaping the education sector and beyond that, its footprint in public policy and build a Uganda that is inclusive, and that respects excellence, intellectual rigour, merit, diversity, social justice and honest,” The Chair Search Committee advised.
Hon. Irene Ovonji-Odida also congratulated the outgoing Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba SSentamu, an alumnus of Makerere University who rose through the ranks up to the level of professor, on completing his tenure successfully.
The University Secretary Mr. Charles Barugahare thanked the Search Committee members for the commitment and dedication in searching for a suitable Vice Chancellor.
Barugahare appreciated the University Council, Senate and Chancellor for handling the phases up to the appointment of Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.
As Chairperson Organising Committee, Barugahare thanked the University Council for entrusting the committee with the responsibility of organizing the installation ceremony.
In a special way, the University Secretary thanked the President for honoring the university invitation and all invited guests for attending.
“Your Excellency, allow me congratulate Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe for the appointment and to wish him a successful five year term. I have the great honor to appreciate the outgoing Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu for great five year service and to wish him the best in his future endeavors,” he said.
Article by: Ms Jane Anyango, Communication Officer and Ms Ritah Namisango, SPRO
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General
Meet Sedrick Nuwagaba, a Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni Contributing to Uganda’s Oil & Gas Industry
Sedrick Nuwagaba, a 35-year-old petroleum engineer, is actively contributing his expertise to the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, which regulates the oil and gas sector. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production from Makerere University in 2021, an opportunity he accessed through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Sedrick’s educational qualifications and professional responsibilities exemplify his commitment to advancing Uganda’s oil and gas sector.
Who is Sedrick Nuwagaba?
Sedrick was born on February 1, 1990, in Kashari, located within the Mbarara district of Western Uganda. He spent his early childhood in a large family, where he faced many challenges that shaped his resilient character. By the age of 14, Sedrick had become the primary breadwinner for his immediate family, comprising his mother and two sisters. His unwavering commitment to their well-being remains evident to this day.
To support his family during these formative years, Sedrick took on a variety of jobs in his community. These early experiences cultivated in him resilience and tenacity, qualities that have significantly contributed to his success as a petroleum engineer.
Following these family challenges, Sedrick and his immediate family relocated from Kashari to a new area in what is now Lyantonde district, where they continue to reside. His journey not only reflects personal growth but also underscores a steadfast commitment to uplifting those around him.
Early Education
The implementation of Universal Primary Education (UPE) in Uganda in 1997 was a pivotal development for Sedrick, facilitating his enrollment at St. Martin Lyantonde Primary School at the age of seven, which was conveniently located near his residence. Sedrick expresses deep appreciation for this initiative, commenting, “Without UPE, I might not have had the opportunity to pursue my education. It truly opened the door for me to attend school and engage in learning.” Despite confronting considerable challenges, including a lack of necessities such as food, Sedrick distinguished himself academically. He achieved top candidate status among UPE schools in his district, earning an impressive seven aggregates in the Primary Leaving Examinations—a remarkable accomplishment given the adversities he faced.
Pursuing Secondary Education
Sedrick faced significant challenges after earning 7 points in the Primary Leaving Examinations, as he was unable to secure a bursary. At that time, alternative arrangements for Universal Secondary Education were limited, which made it difficult for him to continue his education. However, demonstrating remarkable resilience, Sedrick sought work at 14 to fund his secondary education. Through his determination and resourcefulness, he enrolled at Victoria Western College, a small private school in his area, where he attended for three years, reaching Form 3.
Although financial barriers hindered his progress to Form 4, Sedrick’s journey shows his dedication to education and his ability to overcome adversity. Fortunately, his elder half-brother, a businessman in the neighbouring town of Mbarara, reached out and helped him enrol in Form 4 at Kashari Secondary School in Mbarara in 2007.
Embarking on a Journey to Iraq in Search of Opportunity
In 2008, facing difficulties in pursuing his education, Sedrick made the brave decision to take up a security job during the conflict in Iraq between 2003 and 2011. At that time, many young Ugandans were recruited to provide buffer security support to the U.S. military in Iraq. During his time in Iraq, Sedrick not only earned a stable income to support his family but also cared for his mother and funded his two sisters’ education, ultimately improving their lives. Unfortunately, his contract ended in 2010, and he had to return to Uganda to write the next chapter of his life.
Joining the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University
Upon returning to Uganda after his experience in the Iraq War, Sedrick recognised that education was the key to transforming his life. With a determined mindset, he committed himself to his studies, understanding the long-lasting impact they could have on his future. Thanks to his perseverance and the relationships he had built, Sedrick obtained a bursary from a religious organisation, enabling him to resume his high school education six years after his last time in school.
In 2015, he completed his high school education at Namirembe Hillside, where he studied Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry. With 15 points in his final exams, he was admitted to the Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production program, supported by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
“Participating in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University significantly changed my life. For the first time, I was free from the constant worries about necessities like food and shelter. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provided me with a supportive environment that allowed me to focus on my education and personal growth,” Sedrick shared.
Life After Makerere University
In 2020, after graduating, Sedrick had the opportunity to intern at the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) in the Reservoir Engineering section. During his internship, he demonstrated exceptional dedication and expertise in the oil and gas sector. His performance led to his promotion to a Graduate Trainee, which provided him with valuable experiential learning and expanded his exposure within the industry. This experience ultimately paved the way for his recruitment as a Petroleum Engineer at the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, where he now contributes to the regulation of petroleum exploration activities in the country.
Impact on the Community
Upon graduating from university, Sedrick took a proactive approach that set him apart from his peers. He launched Kleanerman, a social venture project designed to have a positive impact on his community. This initiative provides valuable short-term, on-demand domestic services—such as home cleaning, laundry, and babysitting—catering to the needs of busy city residents. Through Kleanerman, Sedrick has successfully created employment opportunities for several young men and women in his community of Kanyanya, fostering both economic growth and personal development.
Due to his own challenges during his educational journey, he has developed a deep commitment to helping other young people facing difficulties with school expenses. To date, he has successfully supported seven young individuals in his Lyantonde community, guiding them from primary through secondary education. His long-term goal is to establish a charitable organisation dedicated to providing young people facing barriers to education with the resources they need to access quality education.
Looking into the Future
Sedrick is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in Uganda’s oil and gas sector. He, along with his colleagues, is focused on ensuring that Uganda achieves its inaugural oil production by 2026.
“Each day, our collective efforts are directed toward successfully introducing Uganda’s first oil into the market by the end of 2026, and expanding the country’s petroleum resource base by discovering more oil reserves,” Sedrick states with evident pride. He is also committed to advancing his career in the oil and gas industry. From his earnings, he has enrolled for a Master’s degree in Petroleum Geosciences at Makerere University to deepen his skills and expertise in the sector.
Message to his fellow young people
Sedrick urges the current Mastercard Foundation Scholars enrolled in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, as well as those at other universities, to make the most of the support provided by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. He emphasises the importance of engaging in capacity-building sessions, skill development programs, mentorship opportunities, and psychosocial support. Sedrick asserts that this comprehensive support framework has been instrumental in transforming his life and shaping who he is today.
He references a quotation that has become a guiding principle in his life: “Until death, all defeat is psychological.” Through this quotation, he seeks to inspire his peers to persevere, emphasising the notion that individuals can always recover and succeed despite the myriad challenges they may encounter in their initial endeavours.
Words of Gratitude
“The impact of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program on my life is profound and transformative. I am sincerely grateful to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University and to the Mastercard Foundation as a whole. It is my hope and prayer that the Foundation continues to make a positive difference in the lives of numerous young individuals, particularly within the African continent.” Sedrick emphasises.
His supervisor speaks out
Sedrick’s immediate supervisor, Mr Derrick Katusiime, the Senior Petroleum Engineer in the Directorate of Exploration at the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, was full of praise for him both at work and outside.
“Sedrick is very sociable and gets along well with everyone here at work, and his technical skills in just two years are impressive,” Mr. Katusiime pointed out.
Mr Katusiime further revealed that Sedrick champions values of integrity, active listening, and being an excellent team player. He goes the extra mile to complete tasks, takes on multiple responsibilities, and demonstrates humility and eagerness to learn.
Bernard Buteera is the Principal Communications Officer, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
A few weeks shy of celebrating a decade of advancing lung health for all through research, training and patient care, the Makerere University Lung Institute (MLI) on 4th November 2025 unveiled a landmark expansion project, set to provide world-class care and contribute to global lung health research. The proposed six-level facility will house the Centre for Advanced Pulmonary and Intensive Care (CAPIC), Centre for Clinical Investigation (CCI), and Centre for Capacity Enhancement (CCE). Upon completion these units will deliver advanced respiratory care, cutting-edge research, and specialist training for pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and respiratory scientists. MLI’s year-long celebrations of a decade of existence will culminate in a grand event to be held on 27th and 28th November 2025.
Officials laud MLI Milestones
Addressing officials at the site handover ceremony who included the Executive Director, Mulago National Referral Hospital (MNRH)-Dr. Rosemary Byanyima, Chairperson MLI Board of Directors-Prof. Charles Ibingira, Founder and Director MLI-Prof. Bruce Kirenga among others, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe commended MLI on milestones such as treating 20,000 patients to-date. “Thank you Prof. Kirenga for having the vision to start and grow the Lung Institute, and to hear that you have already raised some of the funds to commence this phase of the project is commendable,” Prof. Nawangwe lauded.
The MLI Expansion Project (MEP) is valued at UGX 66.84Bn (US$18.06M) comprising of construction of a 5,139sqm building valued at US14.04 M, specialist training valued at US$ 1.43M, and equipment valued at US$2.59M. It will be located on Mulago Hill on land allocated by the MNRH Board of Directors, a gesture the Vice Chancellor sincerely appreciated the Executive Director Dr. Byanyima for.
“Thank you for offering this land Dr. Byanyima. Makerere University and Mulago National Referral Hospital as top institutions our country must work together because if Makerere succeeds at conducting research, the hospital benefits” added Prof. Nawangwe.
MLI’s Role in Advancing Lung Health
Dr. Byanyima in her remarks acknowledged that it was during the CoVID-19 pandemic that the importance of lung health and the role played by MLI was brought to the fore. “But I’m glad that (pandemic) made the Lung Institute grow stronger and on the Hill (Mulago) when we have a unit growing stronger, we have an obligation to support it, not that we abdicate our responsibilities, but we know that it is shared responsibility.”
She therefore thanked Prof. Kirenga for his foresightedness in always thinking of projects that benefit the public. “Mulago Hill does not expand; there are many needs and as MNRH we are looking for land elsewhere. So for the Lung Institute to have been given an opportunity to get a few square metres is because you showed justified cause,” complimented Dr. Byanyima.
The Chairperson MLI Board acknowledged that the Lung Institute has not only received support from MNRH but from its mother Ministry of Health, and other Government entities such as the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, which is supporting MLI’s Clinical Trials Centre and the current expansion project. Prof. Ibigira equally thanked the University for the good policies that facilitate the creation and growth of centres of excellence.
“As the board, we pledge to ensure that this expansion project is executed with excellence, transparency and timeliness, and look forward to a facility that will stand as a beacon of hope in innovation and global excellence in lung health” remarked Prof. Ibingira.
In his remarks, Prof. Bruce Kirenga noted that it is critical that centres of excellence such as MLI are located around MNRH so as to synergize general and specialized healthcare services offered to the public. He therefore thanked Dr. Byanyima and the MNRH Board for not only allocating land for MLI’s expansion but also the two buildings within the Hospital complex that have boosted Institute operations since its founding in 2015.
“These two buildings house the Clinical Trials Ward and the Vaccine House, which is the biggest cold room for vaccines in the country apart from National Medical Stores. This has enhanced our capability in research, storage of vaccines, and most importantly, we can also store a large amount of investigational vaccines, and right now we are being profiled as a centre for stockpiling investigational vaccines on the continent” Prof. Kirenga elaborated, before adding “and we have the largest specialist clinic in the region for treating people with complex lung diseases.”
Scope of works
According to Eng. Ezra Sekadde, Head of the Project Management Team, the construction phase of the MEP has been divided into three stages; 1a to renovate an existing onsite structure for MLI operations, 1b to construct the six-level facility, and 2 to complete internal and external finishes as well as concrete paving and access road works.
Construction will be undertaken by CK Associates within a period of seven months. The Fundraising Committee for the MEP will be chaired by Prof. Tonny Oyana, the Principal, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS).
Under the theme, “Leveraging AI for Sustainable Transformation: Leading in Uganda’s Transformation in the Age of Disruptive AI,” the 16th Annual CEO Forum 2025 brought together government leaders, captains of industry, academia, and development partners to discuss how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can drive Uganda’s transformation agenda.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Mr Yusuf Kiranda, University Secretary at Makerere University, reaffirmed the University’s pivotal role as a hub for AI research, innovation, and training anchored in strong partnerships across government, academia, and industry.
“Makerere University is responsible for research, innovation and training to ensure transferable knowledge that can be utilised by both the private and public sector,” Mr. Kiranda noted.
He emphasised that Uganda’s sustainable AI transformation will depend on effective policy, governance, and collaboration across sectors.
According to Mr. Kiranda, three key issues must be addressed for AI to realise its potential:
- Balancing control and facilitation: Policymakers must not only regulate AI but also actively enable its use to drive innovation and competitiveness.
- Sovereignty of AI: Uganda must safeguard its data and resources, especially in sectors like agriculture, where external mapping of local assets threatens national control and export competitiveness.
- Regional harmonisation: To ensure fair competition, AI policies must be aligned across East Africa so Ugandan, Kenyan, and Tanzanian businesses operate under a level playing field.
“In the utilisation of AI, if a policy is making Uganda less competitive, we must revise it now to allow private sector players to thrive in this disruptive age,” he added.
Mr. Kiranda further reiterated Makerere’s commitment to producing quality, AI-ready graduates and enhancing teaching and learning methods to integrate technology. He also acknowledged the Government’s continued investment in research at Makerere, which has seen a growing number of researchers focus on AI and technological innovations.
“I can attest to Makerere’s existing partnerships with government entities and development partners. These collaborations are making the market ready to deliver solutions through effective academia–industry partnerships,” he said.
Building Africa’s Digital Destiny
The forum opened with a powerful keynote from Dr. Robin Kibuka, Board Director at the CEO Summit Uganda, who spoke on “Building Africa’s Digital Destiny: Kampala Rising, Africa Inventing.”
Dr. Kibuka urged Africans to take ownership of their digital future, stressing that the continent must define how AI transforms its societies.
“Artificial Intelligence can empower Africa or divide it. The choice is ours,” he said.
He highlighted success stories from across Africa, including AI-powered drones delivering medical supplies and smart credit systems supporting small businesses — proof that the continent is already innovating its own digital solutions.
Leveraging AI for Sustainable Transformation
In her keynote address on “Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Transformation,” Dr. Preeti Aghalayam, Director of the Indian Institute of Technology Madras – Zanzibar Campus, described AI as “the defining disruptor of the 21st century.”
She emphasised that both Africa and India share a unique opportunity to collaborate in education, innovation, and human capital development to shape a more inclusive digital future.
“Artificial Intelligence must help us do better and be better,” she said, highlighting the need for responsible innovation that uplifts communities and promotes sustainability.
Digital Transformation in the Health Sector
Mr. Rashid Khalani, Chief Executive Officer of Aga Khan University Hospital, Uganda, presented on “Digital Transformation in the Health Sector,” sharing practical examples of how AI is redefining healthcare delivery.
From AI-powered radiology that detects anomalies faster, to predictive models for early sepsis detection and digital tools supporting mental health care, Mr. Khalani demonstrated how AI is improving patient outcomes and empowering medical professionals.
“AI is not replacing people. It is empowering them to deliver better care, faster,” he emphasised.
He noted that partnerships between hospitals, universities, and technology institutions are crucial in developing localised AI solutions that respond to real health needs.
Makerere at the Heart of Uganda’s AI Transformation
The discussions throughout the 16th Annual CEO Forum 2025 reaffirmed the critical importance of collaboration among academia, industry, and government in shaping Uganda’s AI-driven future.
Makerere University continues to play a leading role in this space, providing the research, innovation, and talent that power the country’s transition into a digital economy.
Through strategic partnerships, forward-looking policy engagement, and continuous innovation in research and training, Makerere stands at the forefront of preparing Uganda and the region for a smart, inclusive, and sustainable future powered by AI.
Caroline Kainomugisha is the Communications Officer, Advancement Office, Makerere University.
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