General
Mak-Sida Annual Review Meeting 2017 Kicks Off
The Makerere University-Sida (Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency) Annual Review Meeting (ARM) has today Monday 2nd October 2017 kicked off under the theme "Multidisciplinary Research for Social Transformation”. The colourful opening ceremony was presided over by the Ambassador of the Royal Swedish Embassy to Uganda H.E. Per Lindgärde. The Ambassador was accompanied by his First Secretary in charge of Research Cooperation, Dr. Gity Behravan. After a brief courtesy call on the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe in his office also attended by Director, Directorate of Research and Graduate Training, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, the officials then made their way to the Main Hall for the day’s proceedings.
Makerere University is implementing the US$32million Bilateral Research Cooperation agreement for a five-year period (2015-2020). The main objective of the research program is to strengthen the capacity of public universities to conduct and sustain high quality research that will contribute to the development needs of Uganda and beyond.
Welcoming guests to the ARM, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi shared that the event was organized to discuss and appraise research undertakings, share information and learn about developments in the fields of Research, Technology and Innovation achieved in collaboration with Kyambogo University, Busitema University, Gulu University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST).
“Your Excellency, I am proud to report our contribution to policy formulation at different levels including: The Energy Policy for Uganda; The policy on use of energy-saving bulbs; land amendment bill; various policies in health, such as policies on HIV/AIDS, malaria, TB treatment and control, National Gender Policy; policies on peace and conflict management and good governance and, National Compensation Policy for Avian Influenza. The Sida research programme has supported most of these initiatives” said Prof. Buyinza.
In his remarks, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe thanked the Royal Swedish Embassy in Uganda for honouring Makerere by choosing the institution to host the joint Review Meeting every year. “Over the past 16 years of collaboration, the Swedish government has invested to the tune of US$ 73 million into Uganda’s graduate training and scientific environments in the public universities; the main recipient being Makerere University. The Swedish support has played a fundamental role in strengthening our capacity to deliver our core functions.”
Prof. Nawangwe reassured Ambassador Lindgärde of Makerere’s commitment to consolidate the achievements of the previous phases while taking a multidisciplinary approach. “Your Excellency, I would like to assure you that Makerere University will optimally and appropriately utilise the allocated resources as well as ensure timely implementation of all activities.”
During the previous phases of the Makerere-Sida Bilateral Research Cooperation the University has successfully trained 210 PhDs, 95 Masters Graduates and 20 post-doctoral fellows. Under the current research collaboration 337 university staff from Makerere, Kyambogo, Busitema, Gulu and Mbarara University of Science and Technology have been recruited and will be trained in partnership with eleven Swedish institutions.
In his address, H.E. Per Lindgärde congratulated Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe upon his election as Vice Chancellor of Uganda’s oldest and largest research University. “I appreciate that you already are familiar with our bilateral research cooperation through your involvement with the program in various capacities from its very start in 2000. This is indeed an advantage and will be of great help for you in ensuring that the Makerere University will be able to provide innovative teaching, learning and research services that are needed for effective implementation of our cooperation. The Swedish Embassy is looking forward to working closely with you in this endeavor.”
The Ambassador admitted that although improving higher education was a complex challenge, the sector remains essential to Uganda’s development. He noted that it was time for the nation to reassess its policies and allocate the resources needed to make higher education the dynamic engine that can power Uganda’s economy for decades to come.
Dr. Gity Behravan in her remarks reiterated the Ambassadors for the need for Uganda to accord more priority to funding research. “The lesson learned here is that funding of universities cannot be a lesser priority for a nation. Further, funding cannot be left to international donors, it is not sustainable. The issue of funding universities is a matter of development of and for a country, and needs to be steered nationally.”
Addressing the partnering universities on research uptake, Dr. Behravan noted that it is important that research findings and innovations should reach beyond the university. She urged all researchers to not only inform existing policies but also aim at critically appraising them, so as to come up with policy alternatives based on the new knowledge arising out of their research.
She further urged the research communities in the partnering universities to establish synergies with other Sida-funded programs especially as the final phase of the Makerere-Sida Bilateral Research program approaches its end. She commended the Department of Mathematics for already embracing this strategy and going ahead to develop a regional PhD curriculum in Mathematics, which has already been approved by the National Council for Higher Education.
As part of this year’s ARM, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences will showcase research under the Social Sciences and Gender Research Day, moderated by: Dr. Andrew Ellias State and Dr. Consolata Kabonesa. The rest of the ARM shall be conducted in the form of meetings at the various colleges.
Article by Public Relations Office
Makerere University has officially welcomed the 2026/2027 cohort of freshers, urging them to pursue academic excellence, uphold integrity, embrace diversity and make the most of the opportunities available throughout their university journey.
The opening of Orientation Week, held at the Freedom Square on Monday, 3rd August 2026, brought together University leaders, staff and thousands of newly admitted students. Throughout the event, speakers emphasized academic discipline, personal responsibility, leadership, student welfare and the values that have defined Makerere University for over a century.
Academic Registrar Welcomes Freshers
Delivering his remarks, the Academic Registrar, Prof. Mukadasi Muyinza, congratulated the freshers upon their admission and welcomed them into Makerere University’s long standing tradition of scholarship, research and innovation.
He reminded the students that joining Makerere University marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives; one in which they would take full responsibility for shaping their future.
“Your arrival at Makerere marks a new chapter in your own life. This chapter is different because now you have the opportunity to determine the direction of your own story.”
Prof. Muyinza encouraged students to actively participate in academic activities, complete assignments on time and uphold integrity throughout their studies.
He cautioned against examination malpractice, forgery and other forms of academic misconduct, emphasizing that such offences could lead to dismissal from the University.
The Academic Registrar also stressed the importance of completing registration within the prescribed period, reminding students that admission remains provisional until registration requirements have been fulfilled.
“Technically, you are not yet students until you register.”
He further guided students on programme changes, registration procedures, and tuition payment requirements and urged them to carefully read the University’s Joining Instructions.
Beyond academics, Prof. Muyinza advised students to exercise financial discipline, avoid online scams and make responsible personal decisions while adjusting to university life.
Dean of Students Highlights Student Welfare
The Dean of Students, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, briefed freshers on accommodation, health services, and feeding, spiritual welfare and leadership opportunities available at the University.
She advised students seeking off campus accommodation to choose only accredited private hostels approved by the University.
“Please make sure you choose a hostel that is safe, comfortable and closer to campus.”
Dr. Kabumbuli also encouraged students to open medical files at the University Hospital instead of self-medicating whenever they fall ill.
“Don’t ignore illness. Don’t self-prescribe. Go for proper medical attention through the University Hospital.”
She urged students to participate in spiritual fellowship through the University’s places of worship and to embrace leadership opportunities available at class, hall and college levels.
Welcoming international students, Dr. Kabumbuli noted that Makerere University has admitted more than 800 international students from 55 countries across five continents, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to providing an inclusive learning environment.
Former Guild President Shares His Makerere Journey
Hon. Lawrence Ariong Dangote, inspired the freshers through his personal story, recalling how he joined Makerere University in 2019 as a young student from Arua “with an empty pocket and a bag full of dreams.”
He described Makerere as “the hill of endless possibilities” and challenged students to maximize every opportunity available during their university life.
“The answer to whether you reach the top of the hill lies in what you do between now and the day you graduate.”
Drawing lessons from his own experience, Dangote cautioned students against peer pressure, financial recklessness and online investment scams, encouraging them to choose friends wisely and remain focused on their academic goals.
“Hard work beats talent if talent does not learn to work hard.”
Academic Registrar Clarifies Registration Process
Returning to the podium, Prof. Muyinza clarified registration procedures, programme change guidelines and admission requirements.
He reminded students that failure to register within the stipulated period would result in forfeiture of admission.
“Registration is the most important step that will determine whether you become a university student or not.”
He also advised students seeking programme changes to ensure they meet the required cut-off points and available vacancies before submitting applications.
Prof. Sarah Ssali Calls for Excellence and Integrity
Closing the orientation, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, who represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, officially welcomed the freshers to Makerere University.
Beginning her remarks, Prof. Ssali asked students admitted to the Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences to identify themselves before revealing that she too had studied the same programme.
Using her own experience, she reminded students that every academic programme offered by the University is valuable.
“Every course matters. Whatever you have been given, do it as if your life depends on it.”
She congratulated the incoming students, she describing their admission as the beginning of a transformative journey that would prepare them to become responsible citizens and future leaders.
“Your achievement reflects your hard work, determination and potential, and we are delighted that you have chosen Makerere University as the next step in your academic journey.”
Prof. Ssali reminded students that every academic programme matters and encouraged them to pursue excellence regardless of the course they had been admitted to.
“Whatever you have been given, do it as if your life depends on it.”
She reassured students that Makerere remains committed to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment through academic staff, the Dean of Students’ Office, counselling services, student leaders and other support units.
She particularly encouraged students facing personal or academic challenges to seek help whenever necessary.
Prof. Ssali reaffirmed the University’s zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment and exploitation.
“Do not suffer silently. Raise your voice. We have zero tolerance for sexual harassment and exploitation of students.”
Encouraging students to engage beyond the classroom, she urged them to participate in research, innovation, sports, leadership, community engagement and international programmes that complement academic learning.
She also called upon students to reject examination malpractice, plagiarism, violence, substance abuse and all forms of misconduct that undermine the University’s values.
“University education is not only about earning a degree; it is about developing the knowledge, character, values and competences required to make a meaningful contribution to society.”
As she concluded, Prof. Ssali challenged the freshers to think about the legacy they wished to leave behind at Makerere University.
“Pursue a life of excellence. Take ownership of your learning, build strong networks and make the most of every opportunity the University offers.”
The 2026/2027 Orientation Week continues with college based sessions that will introduce freshers to academic programmes, registration processes, student support services and university life before the commencement of the new academic year.
By Moses Lutaaya
The Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) at Makerere University has set an ambitious course for the next five years after a three-day strategic planning retreat held at Royal Suites Hotel, Bugolobi, from July 29–31, 2026. The retreat brought together staff, officials from the Directorate of Planning and invited facilitators to review the Directorate’s performance, identify challenges and opportunities, and develop a strategic plan that aligns with Makerere University‘s vision of becoming a research-led institution.
Opening the retreat, the Director of the Directorate of Graduate Training, Prof. Julius Kikooma, reminded staff that the Directorate occupies a central position in the implementation of Makerere University‘s Strategic Plan and must therefore position itself to deliver measurable results.
Prof. Kikooma said one of the University’s key strategic priorities is to increase graduate student enrolment and improve graduate completion rates, making the Directorate’s work more critical than ever before.
He explained that under the University’s Strategic Plan, graduate education is expected to grow significantly over the next five years, with graduate students projected to constitute about 40 per cent of the University’s total enrolment by 2030.
“It is not enough to simply increase admissions,” Prof. Kikooma said. “Our responsibility is to ensure that the students we admit are supported to complete their programmes on time. Graduate completion rates are now one of the University’s strategic priorities.”
He noted that while graduate enrolment is expected to increase substantially, completion rates must also improve if the University is to achieve its research-led aspirations.
The Director emphasized that the Directorate must move beyond reporting admission figures and instead closely monitor student progression from admission through graduation using the Research Information Management System (RIMS). He said the system would enable the University to track every graduate student throughout their academic journey and generate reliable data for planning and decision-making.
Prof. Kikooma challenged staff to embrace the system fully, warning that inaccurate or outdated information compromises the University’s reporting to management and Council.
“We must ensure that the information we present is clean, accurate and reflects active graduate students. RIMS is no longer optional; it is central to how we monitor graduate training and account for our performance.”
He revealed that academic staff supervising graduate students would increasingly be required to demonstrate active use of RIMS before receiving administrative clearance, a move intended to improve accountability and strengthen graduate student tracking.
The Director also highlighted operational challenges facing the Directorate, particularly during peak admission periods when staff experience overwhelming workloads.
He encouraged staff to embrace teamwork and support one another beyond their designated responsibilities whenever the Directorate faces periods of high demand.
“When it’s admissions peak, the pressure belongs to all of us. Even those whose primary roles are elsewhere should step in because we are one Directorate,” he said.
Prof. Kikooma further stressed the importance of proper planning, timely resource mobilization and continuous staff development, noting that changing technologies and administrative systems require continuous learning and capacity building.
“The way we succeeded yesterday cannot guarantee our success tomorrow. We must continue building our skills because the demands of graduate administration keep changing,” he observed.
As the retreat progressed, participants held intensive discussions on institutional priorities, performance targets, work planning, policy implementation and strategies for improving service delivery across the Directorate.
Delivering his closing remarks, Prof. Kikooma expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the retreat, saying the Directorate had successfully reflected on the key issues that will shape its future.
“I’m happy that we have reached this moment. We had a very tight programme, but I believe we have touched on everything we intended to discuss. Some of the messages have encouraged us, while others have provided practical and technical guidance on improving the way we work,” he said.
He urged staff to return to their offices and translate the lessons from the retreat into practical improvements in service delivery.
Prof. Kikooma thanked the organizing committee for ensuring the retreat became a reality despite earlier uncertainties and acknowledged the contribution of the facilitators, especially colleagues from the Directorate of Planning.
He particularly commended Dr. Christine Amito for her commitment and technical guidance in developing the Directorate’s strategic plan, describing her as instrumental in ensuring that the Directorate’s priorities remain aligned with the University’s overall strategic direction.
He also recognized the contributions of newly assigned planning staff whose early involvement had already strengthened the Directorate’s planning processes.
The Director applauded the graduate interns attached to the Directorate for the valuable support they provided during their placement.
“The work you have done has been real work that would ordinarily have been done by employed staff. Beyond your academic training, I hope you have also learnt the soft skills that are essential in every workplace,” he said.
Prof. Kikooma disclosed that the retreat marked only the beginning of the Directorate’s strategic planning process, noting that the resolutions would be compiled into a comprehensive report for discussion by the Directorate’s management before implementation.
He assured staff that recommendations requiring higher-level consideration would be forwarded to the relevant University authorities.
“The University is banking very much on what we do in graduate training to achieve its vision of becoming a research-led university. Admissions, graduate student tracking, policy development and graduate completion are all at the heart of that agenda.”
The Director also announced that the Directorate would institutionalize a culture of recognizing staff members for their dedicated service.
He observed that employees spend most of their lives in the workplace and therefore deserve appreciation from the institutions they serve.
“As a Directorate, we want everyone who has worked with us to know that they remain part of the DGT family. We are a winning team, but a winning team must also be a happy team.”
One of the emotional moments of the retreat came when the Directorate honoured its former Head of Registry, Ms. Prossy Nakayiki, with a special gift in recognition of her outstanding service and contribution to graduate training.
Receiving the award, Ms. Nakayiki thanked the Directorate for remembering her, saying the recognition affirmed that dedication and integrity are eventually rewarded.
“I take it at heart that when you do well, you are appreciated,” she said.
She recounted her professional journey from joining the then Directorate of Research and Graduate Studies as an admissions officer, rising through the ranks to head the Directorate’s Registry before her appointment as Deputy Academic Registrar in charge of Examinations, Transcripts and Graduation.
Ms. Nakayiki encouraged staff to remain committed to excellent customer care, urging them to treat every student with empathy and professionalism.
“When serving a student, think of that student as your own child. Even when you cannot provide an immediate answer, communicate honestly and assure them when you will be able to help. Our work is about service.”
She attributed the Directorate’s earlier achievements to teamwork, clearly defined responsibilities and effective communication among staff.
She advised employees to understand their roles, support one another and resolve workplace misunderstandings through open communication rather than conflict.
“Our supervisors can only succeed if we, the foot soldiers, perform our responsibilities well. Let us continue working together for the good of the Directorate and for the success of every graduate student who walks through our doors.”
The retreat ended with renewed commitment from staff to implement the Directorate’s five-year strategic plan and strengthen graduate training as a key pillar in advancing Makerere University‘s research excellence agenda.
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