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Mak Releases Another New Soybean Variety Maksoy 6N

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A new soybean variety Maksoy 6N has been released to the public.

  • The new variety is resistant to soybean rust disease, harsh conditions, lodging and pod shuttering.
  • It is also high yielding, early maturing with high protein and oil content of 41% and 20 % respectively.
  • This variety matures in less than 120 days and produces over 20 tons per hectare.
  • The new variety was released by the National Variety Release Committee at the Department of Crop protection at Namalere under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) on Friday 24th November 2017.
  • It is the sixth soybean variety released by Makerere University’s Department of Agricultural Production since 2004.

The National Variety Release Committee chaired by Dr. Joseph Kikafunda was satisfied by the data presented by Prof. Phinehas Tukamuhabwa –Makerere’s Plant breeder and the brain behind the breeding and development of the new soybean variety.

Maksoy 6N is a cross between Nam 2 and GC 00138-29. Nam 2 was developed and released in Uganda (1992) while GC 00138-29 is a rust resistant parental line from AVRDC, Taiwan.

Presenting his application to the Variety Release Committee Prof. Tukamuhabwa said the breeding process started in 2012 with making selections.

“Today I am very pleased to inform you that we have gone through the process that has enabled us release another soybean variety for Uganda which has been named Maksoy 6N for Makerere University and for Uganda at large.

This is very important because in our breeding system, we have to keep developing new varieties because the varieties we have, keep on getting pests and diseases which make them susceptible. So today, we have successfully defended and released a new variety that is highly resistant to soybean rust which is the major disease of soybean in Uganda and the world at large.” The professor explained.

The crosses that were developed into this new variety according to the professor were developed into populations, later selected and  tested in over eight locations in the different districts of Uganda where soybean is highly grown.

He said  in all the trials, it turned out that this variety is outstanding compared the varieties present,  the reason  the committee was convinced  and was able to release this new variety.

The Professor’s claims were validated by the officials from MAAIF represented by Mr. Siraje Nyende who said the assessment done re-affirmed the Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability of the new variety recommending it for the release.

“When we make crosses and develop population, we test them because we are not breeding for people at Makerere University or around Kabanyolo but we are doing it for the whole country and world. So we test these new varieties that we develop in several locations.

Most of these are in Northern Uganda where soybean is widely grown and this is especially in Ngetta, West Nile and Eastern Uganda in Jinja, Iki-Iki in Budaka district, in Hoima and Kasese. However in the regions where soybean is grown on large scale, we also choose specific farmers where we have tested on farmers’ fields so that farmers are capable of telling us that they like them” He added.

Prof. Tukamuhabwa explained that the protein in the in the Soybean is without cholesterol and is an opportunity to some sections of the population which does not take meat because all the amino acids necessary for the body are available.

“Of course it does not mean eating soybean alone but eating food blended with soybean. And you know it is meat grown from the soil. Any Ugandan can grow this soybean and what they need is knowledge how to process it”. Prof. Tukamuhabwa noted.

This soybean according to Prof. Tukamuhabwa is also good because it is high yielding and it has high oil and protein content which are very useful for factories to process soybean oil and soybean meal used in the livestock industry.

“It is also good news to see that at Makerere University we don’t only stop at teaching plant breeding but also develop new varieties that can be used by farmers who are the end users and also factories that process soybean into products.

The variety is able to withstand harsh conditions and is resistant to podshuttering. The genes contained in this variety are very important ergonomically and it is on this basis that they are being released,” Tukamuhabwa explained.

The Assistant plant breeder Mr. Tonny Obua said the seed companies are interested in oil and protein content because that is what gives them more income.

“The lowest  they should receive is 36% protein  then oil 18% minimum and we feel more confident  this variety”.

Mr. Obua added that the university has been producing adequate foundation seed ranging between 25-30 tons per season culminating to  over 50 tons annually.

“we are already  increasing  bulk seed for this new variety. Our last release in 2013 was Maksoy 3N and 4N and no seed company  in Uganda  has said they lack foundation seed”, Obua said.

He added that Busoga and South Western Hills of Mbale  that used not to grow soybean were now engaged in soybean growing.

Soybean – a “Miracle crop”.

Soybean has been defined as a “Miracle crop” of many uses by American Soybean Association.

Others call it the golden crop – the gold that develop from the soil and the crop of the future.

Soybean produces more usable protein per hectare than any other crop and costs less in relative terms.

In Uganda soybean is used as human food, cooking oil, livestock feed and income earner. It also improves soil properties.

According to the American Soybean Association, whole soybean has 22 products; soybean oil has 53 products while soybean meat or flour has 48 products. The products are used as human food, for technical, industrial and animal feeds.

“If Ugandans or policy makers knew, they would adopt soybean as a crop to get us from real poverty.  Because from these soybean, you can get soy milk, soy yoghurt and ice cream and that already tells you that this is really an extra ordinary crop.

After we have extracted oil we also get the most priced cake among all protein cakes in the crops processed all over the world. This is an internationally traded commodity you can never have”, Prof.  Tukamuhabwa said.

Tukamuhabwa noted that here in Uganda soybean production can contribute to food security and industry growth.

“When you grow soybean and blend it with maize you will develop the animal industry, and by so doing you also have food, the animals are well-fed then you improve food security. So the sure way is to develop the soybean sub sector and you blend it with other crops”. He said

He observed that Brazil and Argentina’s economies are dependent on soybean because they have purposely selected soybean to advance their economies. He added that soybean has properties that can develop any economy even better than coffee.

“In Uganda soybean grows very well so it is up to our choice and you will not get another crop that can outcompete soybean in the type of products that you can get.

It is a crop with self sustaining properties because it will improve soils, improve agribusiness, increase food security at house level and improve all factories that have mushroomed.

When factories come up people get work and there is total benefit by everybody when you invest in soybean”. Prof. Tukamuhabwa stated.

He challenged citizens to reflect on how they choose commodities to invest in saying, there is enough evidence that those who have invested in soybean, its incomparable.

“So it is up to our people and our countries to make choice but soybean is a crop for the future that we must invest in. It is a challenge to us as a country”. The Makerere Don advised.

Report compiled by:
Jane Anyango
Communication Officer, CAES

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Mark Wamai

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Mastercard Foundation Scholars Empower Schools in Mukono and Kyegwegwa Districts

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Mr. John Osuna, the Transition Lead, together with some of the Scholars, handing over the learning materials to the Chairperson of Parents' Association at Little Angels Primary School. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.

By Scholars Program Communication Team

On Saturday, November 16, 2024, Little Angels Junior School, Mawotto Village, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District celebrated an inspiring, joy-filled event. These two schools were selected to receive the generosity of Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service.

At St. Charles Rwahunga Nursery and Primary School, the Scholars donated various products, including Learning Materials, Geometry sets, Sanitary towels for the girls, sportswear for the boys’ football team, and other goodies.

The Community Nursery and Primary School serves 412 pupils with severe challenges due to inadequate infrastructure. The buildings are dilapidated, there is a shortage of desks, and the classrooms are small and overcrowded. These issues need to be addressed to ensure a better student learning environment.

Mr. Alex Mugisha,the Headteacher, extreme left, pupils and staff of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary school very excited after receiving learning materials donated by Scholars of Mastercard Foundation. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
Mr. Alex Mugisha,the Headteacher, extreme left, pupils and staff of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary school very excited after receiving learning materials donated by Scholars of Mastercard Foundation.

Mr. Alex Mugisha, the Headteacher of the School, expressed gratitude to the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation for the kind gesture they extended to his school.

“I am deeply grateful, along with the students and staff, for the generosity of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars. These materials will significantly enhance the learning environment for our pupils,” remarked Mr. Mugisha.

Mr. Nelson Ddumba, the Scholars Council Representative, encouraged the young learners at the event not to lose hope. He emphasized that regardless of their starting point, they can improve their circumstances by staying in school.

Mr. Ddumba Nelson, the Scholars' Council representative, speaking to the Pupils of St. Charles Rwahunga Primamary School. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
Mr. Ddumba Nelson, the Scholars’ Council representative, speaking to the Pupils of St. Charles Rwahunga Primamary School.

“Listen, my fellow students: do not give up. The only path to transforming your circumstances is through a steadfast commitment to your education and remaining in school. I have been in your shoes, but I pushed through and succeeded thanks to my mother’s unwavering support. Today, I proudly attend Makerere University, one of the leading institutions in Uganda. Embrace the challenge ahead and make your education your top priority!” Mr. Ddumba declared.

At Little Angels Junior School, pupils were excited to receive educational materials, reusable sanitary towels, mathematical sets, dictionaries, and textbooks for nursery to primary seven students.

Ms. Sarah Nturo, the headteacher, commended the Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University for the kind gesture.

Pupils of Little Angels express their excitement during a group photo with the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
Pupils of Little Angels express their excitement during a group photo with the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation.

She said the books will help the school improve its reading culture and performance.

“We are grateful to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University; we believe these books will significantly contribute to improving our pupils’ performance,” Ms. Nturo said.

Nturo also pointed out that they have challenges with the facilities and water as a school.

“Ever since we started this School, the education has improved because, in the past, parents could not allow their children to come here; instead, they would send them to the lake for fishing. But now, the children come only because they do not have somewhere to sit. We have few desks,” Nturo said.

A cross-section of Mastercard Foundation Scholars pose in a photograph with pupils of Little Angels Junior School. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
A cross-section of Mastercard Foundation Scholars pose in a photograph with pupils of Little Angels Junior School.

During the visit, the pupils mesmerised the scholars with rare dance moves. The excitement did not leave the Programme Implementation team and teachers in their seats, making it a fun-filled event. The audience was left yearning for more.

Addressing the school, Mr. John Osuna, the Transition Lead at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, urged the pupils to use their school time to prepare for a bright future.

“Do not mind where you are coming from. We all started like this. Education is an equalizer. Now that you have an opportunity to study, focus on making the best out of it. Be disciplined pupils and listen to your teachers. The sky will be the limit,” Mr Osuna said.

A cross-section of schoolgirls of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary School pose in a photo with sanitary towels donated by Scholars of Mastercard Foundation. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
A cross-section of schoolgirls of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary School pose in a photo with sanitary towels donated by Scholars of Mastercard Foundation.

During the event, Francis Kabuye Kaggwa, the Chairperson of the Parents Teacher Association (PTA) leadership, said that ever since the school started over 10 years back, they have never received guests who bring them gifts like how the Mastercard Foundation Scholars did.

“I think you have seen how excited the children were. We are all happy this has never happened to our school. Who are we to receive these gifts? We have challenges, but with friends like God on our side, we shall conquer,” Mr. Kabuye noted.

The boys' football team of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary School pose in a photo after receiving the sports wear donated by the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
The boys’ football team of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary School pose in a photo after receiving the sports wear donated by the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation.

The Scholars’ Day of Community Service is an annual event where Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University engage in community service as a way of giving back. This initiative aims to empower vulnerable individuals in the community and contribute positively to society.

Mak Editor

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Prof. Nawangwe calls for Increased Government Sponsorship for Students with Disabilities

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe addressing the gathering during the International Day for Persons With Disabilities commemoration. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Mak Communication Team

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, while speaking at the inaugural commemoration of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities at Makerere University has appealed to the Government to increase the number of students with disabilities on government sponsorship.

The event held on Wednesday, 13th November 2024 was organised by the Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students’ Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities and held in the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium.

Part of the audience, listening attentively during the event. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Part of the audience, listening attentively during the event.

The day’s theme was: “Empowering Inclusion: Breaking Barriers, Unlocking Potential”

“Students with disabilities should be the first to be admitted on Government sponsorship because there are not so many,” Prof. Nawangwe said.

Hon. Hellen Asamo, signing a commitment card to continue supporting inclusivity at Makerere University and the country as a whole. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Hon. Hellen Asamo, signing a commitment card to continue supporting inclusivity at Makerere University and the country as a whole.

 Prof. Nawangwe called upon the government to devise a scheme and policy for integrating students with disabilities into the working environment after graduation.

Prof. Nawangwe noted that the University has established a Disability Support Centre, a one-stop facility to ensure equal access to education and life, promote inclusivity, and support students and staff with disabilities.

Prof. Nawangwe handing over a gift to the Chief Guest, Hon Asamo. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe handing over a gift to the Chief Guest, Hon Asamo.

“Over the years, Makerere University has branded itself as a place that actively and loudly promotes increased awareness about the rights and needs of students and staff with disabilities.” Prof. Nawangwe remarked.

While addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest, Hon. Hellen Grace Asamo, the State minister for Disability Affairs, called upon Persons with Disabilities to always believe in themselves and be able to break the barriers of the inferiority complex.

One of the students with disability receiving an award for being supportive to other students with disabilities. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
One of the students with disability receiving an award for being supportive to other students with disabilities.

“You have to show people that you have the potential, and when people get to know your potential, they will begin to include and engage you. But if you do not have your potential, nobody will include you. They will think you are just someone who is just there seated and begging,” Hon. Asamo noted.

In her welcome remarks, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students at Makerere University, said that the University is making a deliberate effort to pay particular attention to the decisive implementation of inclusive Policies and Practices.

Dr. Kabumbuli, receiving the award on behalf of the VC, as recognition for the efforts the university was making towards inclusivity. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Kabumbuli, receiving the award on behalf of the VC, as recognition for the efforts the university was making towards inclusivity.

“This is where we want all people to thrive and grow. Therefore, we are proud to accept and celebrate our differences and uniqueness. We welcome you here to build a culture of active support for each other and to declare that by championing a conducive environment for students and staff with disability, we are part of the change-makers of today,” Dr Kabumbuli said.

Dr. Kabumbuli also highlighted several policies the University has implemented, such as the Policy for Persons with Disabilities and safeguarding, Accommodation policy, University rules and regulations, the Human resource manual, and the student guild constitution that provides inclusive participation in student leadership and admission policies.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program receiving the award on behalf of the Team. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program receiving the award on behalf of the Team.

“These policies protect and enhance the rights of both staff and students with disabilities. For example, we have a student guild minister for persons with disabilities to ensure their voices are heard,” Dr. Kabumbuli noted.

Makerere has directed attention to ensuring accessible and comfortable accommodations for students with Disabilities by having designated accessible hostels and rooms. The University provides salaries, lodging, and meals for helpers who assist students with disabilities. A concentrated effort is also being made to build ramps, elevators, and accessible pathways to facilitate navigation for students and staff.

A panel of experts discussing the issues affecting PWDs and how to mitigate them. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A panel of experts discussing the issues affecting PWDs and how to mitigate them.

According to Dr Kabumbuli, the University has embraced a drive to facilitate students’ access to assistive devices, including wheelchairs, white canes, brailling machines, hearing aids, etc.

“As part of our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, the University has designated a specialized space within the library, equipped with assistive technologies and resources, specifically for students with disabilities to ensure equal access to knowledge and academic success for all. We have also put in place special arrangements, such as extra time during examinations to enable access to education,” Dr Kabumbuli said.

Hon. Minister representing students with disabilities on the students' guild addressing the audience. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Hon. Minister representing students with disabilities on the students’ guild addressing the audience.

Dr. Kabumbuli acknowledged the support from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, the Ministry of Gender, and the School of Law, which are committed to championing diversity, inclusion, and equity for People with Disabilities.

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated annually on December 3rd to raise awareness and support for people with disabilities worldwide.

The Commemorative card that was signed by guest as commitment to supporting inclusivity at Makerere University. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Commemorative card that was signed by guest as commitment to supporting inclusivity at Makerere University.

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The 3rd Fundis and Technicians sensitization event and exhibition held successfully

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The 3rd annual Fundis and Technicians sensitization event and exhibition by manufacturers of building materials organized by the Department Architecture and Physical Planning at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Makerere University came to a close with a call for increased partnerships between training institutions and the community.

The event that attracted 200 participants including masons, fundis, painters, builders, metal and electrical fabricators ran from Thursday 24th to Friday 25th October 2024 at CEDAT. It was supported by several stakeholders and was characterized by training sessions and an exhibition of building materials by different companies that make cement, paint, water tanks tiles and many more.

Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Makerere University.

Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe at the opening of the training. In his remarks, he extended appreciation to the technicians for accepting to take part in the training which he said was key in ensuring that they gain from continuous learning. Prof. Alinaitwe observed that although some of them did not get through formal training, it was important that they took part in such training programs to keep abreast of the developments in the construction industry where they undertake the bulk of the work as masons, technicians, plumbers, and metal fabricators.

‘Keep improving, we need to up our game in terms of quality’, he said while making reference to the need for quality output.  He cautioned them on issues of cost and cheating of their clients by making realistic costs.  ‘We need to cost the work well taking into account the materials, the labor, the equipment used, and the overheads’.  The other area that needed to be taken care of by the technicians included time management, which reflects on attitudes towards work, team work.   While addressing the gathering in his capacity as Chairman of the Engineers Registration Board, Prof. Alinaitwe said the upcoming engineering Registration Bill, if approved, has a provision for the registration of all artisans and hence the need to have the minimum requirements for the stakeholders to be registered. He also stressed the need to bring on board as more women as possible.  ‘We want to see more women, who can do some aspects in construction better than men like painting.

Prof. Moses Musinguzi, the Principal of the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, Makerere University.

Prof. Moses Musinguzi, the Principal of the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology while welcoming the trainees to the college said the training is a good initiative that will help address challenge of skill and work match.  He encouraged the trainees to do smart work, and take due consideration of ethics and customer care. He encouraged the department to extend the training opportunity to other units of the college and the university and also make it more formal, as part and parcel of the training program of the college in liaison with bodies like UBTEB.

Assoc. Prof. Kizito Maria Kasule, the Deputy Principal CEDAT while appreciating the initiative of the department said countries like Germany have apprenticeship training that help the training of students to gain skills equivalent to those acquired while in formal institutions of learning.  He said the academia in Uganda is increasingly recognizing the importance of the informal sector in the growth of the country. ‘We need to learn from you. Almost 90% of the people in the construction industry have been informally trained’. He said by learning from each other, the two sectors jointly make a contribution towards the development of the country.

Dr. Amin Tamale Kiggundu, the head of the Department of Architecture and Physical Planning said the initiative, a community outreach program of the college started three years ago in the year 2022 with 60 Fundis and masons, in 2023, the number was increased to 120 Fundis and the current 2024, was 200 Fundis of various categories, including painters, builders, metal fabricators, plumbers and electrical fabricators. He said this community outreach program aims at sharing the accumulated scientific knowledge in building, design and construction technologies at CEDAT, sharing the expertise, knowledge and experiences with communities in greater Kampala and hence bridging the existing knowledge and skills gap between the training institutions and the communities.

Dr. Amin Tamale Kiggundu, the head of the Department of Architecture and Physical Planning, Makerere University

The 21st century is characterized by collaboration, partnerships, and establishment of knowledge economies.  He said based on the trainings held so far, it is clear that partnerships between the training institutions and the communities were possible especially the Fundis who are closer to the communities. ‘We also want to learn from the Fundi’s experiences, how they are able to connect to the communities in some cases better than those who have gone through the training institutions’, he said. He further noted that the majority of fundis are young people that need to be supported with skills and other ways of nurturing them. The dream of the department, he said is to introduce an open door policy that allows fundis and other university students to come to learn.  

Several organizations supported the event and participated in the exhibition and they included Habitat for Humanity, Uganda, Green Building Council Uganda, The National Building Board, Uganda Clays Limited, Centenary Bank, Steel and Tube Industries Ltd, Simba Cement, Plascon, Goodwill, Cresttanks among others.

Alex Isemaghendera

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