General
President of Hargeisa University Visits Makerere University
On 15th March 2018, the President of Hargeisa University, Prof. Dr Muhamud Yousuf Muse and the Vice President for Academics and Research, Assoc. Prof. Sied Muhumed Jibril visited the Vice Chancellor and had bilateral talks.
Hargeisa University is found in Somaliland, a former British Colony which received its independence in 1991. Hargeisa University has ten colleges, two institutes and two centres which are focused on teaching, research and community outreach. Prof Jibril, explained to the Vice Chancellor that quite often, people in Africa do not distinguish between Somalia and Somaliland. Somaliland is a peaceful democratic country with its own governance structure, own currency, and has had five peaceful Presidential elections since 1991.
The State President is the Supreme Head of the University and therefore the university has support from the government. Somalia was an Italian colony while Somaliland was under the British Protectorate. Somalia is not yet peaceful and not about to be because the kind of conflict resolution and model they are applying is imported from elsewhere and does not meet the needs of its country while Somaliland developed its own local model in one of their centres and this has helped to bring peace and democracy in their nation.
Hargeisa University has a student population of 7,500 students and has collaborations with many international universities and organizations such as University of Oslo, Harvard University, Kings College London, Turkish Universities, MEKELLE University in Ethiopia where they do joint programmes. Prof Jibril informed the Vice Chancellor that there were opportunities of collaborating in research with Hargeisa University. Recently, Oil was discovered In Somaliland and that would be a ripe area for a strong collaboration. The College of Health Sciences has already had students from Hargeisa University at postgraduate level and were among the best performers in the College.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe welcomed the visitors and was delighted that they found it worthwhile to come and collaborate with the University. Makerere University is a comprehensive university with ten colleges trying to become a research-led university by reducing on undergraduate programmes and increasing graduate programmes and emphasizing research. Makerere University being the largest and oldest university has an obligation of assisting her neighbours as we value collaborations with other universities and would be willing to work with Hargeisa University. He informed them that the College of Veterinary, Animal Resources and Biosecurity was already working with the Sheik Veterinary Institute by offering certificate and diploma programmes in veterinary fields and later absorbing the students for degree programmes.
A Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation was signed between The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University and the President of Hargeisa University and was witnessed by the Acting Director Legal Affairs, Mr Goddy Muhumuza, the International Relations Officer, Ms Martha Muwanguzi, and staff from the Public Relations Office and the Vice President for Academics and Research at Hargeisa University, Prof Jibril Muhamud.
At the College of Health Sciences, the visitors were welcomed by the Acting Principal and Dean, School of Public Health, Prof Rhoda Wanyeze, Dr Lukanga from Pathology representing Dean School of Biomedical Sciences and Dr Namatovu who represented the Dean School of Medicine. Hargeisa University had students in this College who performed very well. So far, eight students have done graduate programme and another was about to complete her studies.
Hargeisa University is a member of the Arab Universities Association and many Medical Associations and done a lot publishing international journals mostly in the medical fields. Hargeisa runs a joint masters programme with Turkish university in Family Medicine. Unfortunately, Somaliland with a population 3.5 million people has only 2 Gynaecologists and 2 obstetricians which clearly indicates the urgency in collaborating with Makerere University in capacity building through training their personnel to work in health facilities. Makerere University has the resources while Somaliland has the platform. The Country is under reconstruction and a helping hand from an African brother was very much needed. The ground for collaboration was quite rich for tapping into.
The following were suggested areas for collaboration
1. Development of joint masters programmes and Somali students get training
2. Joint Consultancies
3. Development of research programme models can be borrowed
4. Exchange of academic staff (sending staff to Somaliland and vice versa)
5. Student internships where 4th Year undergraduate students doing electives can be sent to Somaliland for some months and they earn credits to their programmes
6. Opportunities for training such as pathologists, gynaecologists, obstetricians in the region, etc
7. Distance Learning programmes to support training
Particular areas such as Tropical Medicine, Masters of Public Health Nutrition, e-modulation where students are organized and taught online instead of moving to Somaliland. Developing tailor-made programmes at Somaliland where Makerere staff go and teach specialized courses in the mornings and give service to the community in the afternoons.
It was agreed that the Call for Applications of Postgraduate Programmes for academic year 2018/2019 be sent to the Vice President Prof Jibril to enable to the Somali students apply.
In the College of Veterinary, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, the visitors were received by the Deputy Principal, Prof Majalija and the meeting was attended by Dr Edward Wampande, Prof Ejobi, Dr Ahmed Sengooba, Dr Frank Mwine, the International Relations Officer, Ms Martha Muwanguzi and the Personal Secretary to the Principal, Ms Lillian Tukahirwa.
The President Dr Muhumud Yousuf Mose gave a brief history of Somaliland and that of Hargeisa University and informed the meeting that Hargeisa University had collaborations with several international universities, international donors and the World Medical Association. For quite a long time, Hargeisa University was collaborating with Western universities but realized it was not proper to depend on them so much but emphasize working together with their African brothers. Somaliland having the largest livestock population and being the largest livestock exporting country on the African continent, Hargeisa University had special interest in the College of Veterinary Medicine. Following areas were suggested; collaboration in joint research programmes, developing joint masters programmes, exchange of students and staff, developing joint consultancies for the Ministry of Livestock in Somaliliand.
COVAB has Centres for wildlife, for Bio security, Animal Clinics and for partnerships and has supported capacity building for Sheikh Veterinary Institute in Somaliland, development of Umtala Veterinary School in Kigali, Bunda Veterinary School in Malawi and have trained professionals who work across sectors. Dr Frank Mwine said, each one of us are the engines for development in our various disciplines and so we need to be proactive to engage in politics so that we can bring changes and development to our nations. We cannot do away with the external donors completely since they are the ones who have resources which train our staff. Specific areas ought to be identified for this collaboration.
It was suggested that Hargeisa can start off by sending two or three students to Makerere for masters programmes. They can also send students for the CARTA training. Makerere University can partner with Hargeisa and joint write a proposal for training in trypanosomiasis in cattle and in humans as well as tuberculosis in humans and they get funding for this.
The Veterinary System is very key in the Somaliland ecosystem and establishing a communication platform between the Veterinary and Agricultural College in Somaliland was quite crucial. In addition, establishing a collaboration with the College of Health Sciences was also important. Hargeisa University was also advised to apply and join the ‘One Health” Network for Africa for managing animal health and population.
In the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, the visitors were welcomed by the Deputy Principal, Assoc. Prof Goretti Nanabaoga and the meeting was attended by the College Registrar, Mr Edward Obura. The Deputy Principal said they were interested in widening the network with those who share same concerns with their College. Makerere University does a lot of collaborative research and suggested that cross boarder research would be an ideal area that can be explored and we attach students from both countries be attached to this research. Writing joint proposals for funding was another area also identified.
Written by Martha Muwanguzi- Makerere University International Relations Office
General
Makerere Launches Strategic Plan 2025-2030 to Drive Research, Innovation and National Development.
Kampala, Uganda East Africa.
Makerere University has officially launched its Strategic Plan 2025-2030, reaffirming its commitment to advancing research, innovation, academic excellence and human capital development in support of Uganda’s national transformation agenda.
The Strategic Plan, unveiled by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, provides a road map for strengthening the University’s contribution to Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy through research, innovation, entrepreneurship and the production of highly skilled graduates.
The launch, held at the University’s Main Hall, brought together government officials, members of the University Council, management, development partners, staff and students to witness what leaders described as the beginning of Makerere University’s next phase of institutional transformation.
Positioning Makerere for National Transformation.
Delivering his remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe said the Strategic Plan reflects Makerere University’s ambition to become an even stronger research led institution that responds directly to Uganda’s development priorities.
He noted that the University intends to restore student enrollment to pre COVID levels while significantly increasing postgraduate training to produce more researchers, innovators and professionals capable of addressing national challenges.
Prof. Nawangwe also highlighted the University’s growing research portfolio, commending researchers and research centers that continue to attract substantial international funding.
“when you combine the grants won by all our researchers through competitive international funding, the total exceeds US$200 million,” He said.
The Vice Chancellor also pointed to the need to strengthen the University’s academic workforce, noting that although progress has been made, more investment is required to fill approved academic positions, particularly at professor and associate professor levels.
Strategic Plan Sets Ambitious Institutional Targets.
Chairperson of the University Council, Dr. Lorna Magara, described the Strategic Plan as more than an institutional document, calling it “a public covenant with the people of Uganda.”
She said the Plan outlines measurable commitments that will guide the University’s performance over the next five years, including expanding postgraduate enrolment, increasing STEM participation, improving doctoral completion rates and strengthening research productivity.
“Ambition is precisely what this moment demands. A strategic plan is not measured by the elegance of its language, but by the lives it transforms,” she said.
Dr. Magara emphasized that every investment in Makerere University should translate into tangible benefits for society through research, innovation, leadership and skilled graduates.
She also called for reforms to Uganda’s Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act to strengthen university governance and create an enabling environment for innovation and knowledge production.
Government Reaffirms Support.
Launching the Strategic Plan, Hon. Henry Musasizi commended Makerere University for aligning its institutional priorities with Uganda’s Vision 2040, the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) and the country’s Tenfold Growth Strategy.
He observed that universities remain central actors in national development because they produce the knowledge, innovation and skilled workforce required to transform Uganda’s economy.
“Universities are central actors in national transformation. they are engines of knowledge creation, innovation and human capital development,” he said.
The Minister emphasized government’s commitment to supporting research, innovation and stronger collaboration between universities and industry to ensure that knowledge generated within higher education institutions contributes directly to economic growth.
Universities Critical to Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy.
Presenting the national development perspective, Samuel Kasule, Senior Planner at the National Planning Authority, explained that the Strategic Plan aligns closely with the Uganda’s long term development framework.
He noted that achieving the country’s ambitious economic growth targets will depend heavily on universities producing competent graduates, expanding research and strengthening innovation ecosystems that support priority sectors including agriculture, tourism, ICT, minerals, manufacturing, and oil and gas.
Kasule further underscored the importance of competency based education and post graduate training in building the human capital required for sustainable national development.
A Shared Vision for the Future.
Throughout the launch, speakers emphasized that Makerere University’s future lies in becoming an increasingly research intensive, innovation driven institution that responds to national and global development challenges.
The Strategic Plan 2025-2030 outlines priorities that include strengthening research excellence, promoting innovation and commercialization, expanding digital transformation, enhancing partnerships with industry, and producing graduates equipped to drive socioeconomic transformation.
Its launch marks a renewed commitment by Makerere University to remain at the forefront of knowledge generation and to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s long term development aspirations.
General
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General
Dr John Mary Kiberu Appointed Acting Head of Makerere University’s Department of Geology & Petroleum Studies
Dr John Mary Kiberu has been appointed Acting Head of the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies at Makerere University effective 1st July 2026.
Dr Kiberu takes over from Dr Arthur Batte who has led the Department since 1st April 2022.
Official Handover Ceremony
The official handover ceremony, held on 10th July 2026, was presided over by the Dean of the School of Physical Sciences, Prof. David Ssevviiri, who paid tribute to the outgoing Head for his exemplary leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of the Department. Prof. Ssevviiri acknowledged Dr Batte’s invaluable contribution, sacrifices, and efforts in guiding the Department and strengthening its academic and institutional mandate during his tenure. He welcomed the incoming Head and expressed confidence in his ability to provide strategic leadership and build on the foundation established, while advancing the Department’s vision and goals.
Dr Batte’s Achievements During His Tenure
In his handover report, Dr Batte reflected on the Department’s progress over the past four years, highlighting the achievements that strengthened academic programmes, research, industry collaboration, infrastructure, and administrative systems.
Among the key accomplishments was the acquisition of modern teaching and research equipment through strategic partnerships with leading industry stakeholders. SNF contributed state-of-the-art laboratory equipment designed to simulate surfactant production processes for Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR), significantly strengthening the Department’s capacity for hands-on training and applied research. TotalEnergies provided advanced computer workstations equipped with industry-standard geological and reservoir simulation software, enabling students and researchers to access cutting-edge tools for learning, innovation, and professional development. In addition, the Department expects to receive a well-control model from Zhongyuan Petroleum Exploration Bureau (ZPEB), which will further strengthen practical training in petroleum production processes.
Strengthening Industry Partnerships
The Department also expanded its engagement with industry by formalizing partnerships with TotalEnergies, COSL, DISKOS, and the Uganda Chamber of Energy and Minerals. These collaborations have created valuable opportunities for student internships, collaborative research, curriculum enhancement, and equipment support. Negotiations are ongoing to conclude Memoranda of Understanding with ZPEB, Dietsmann, and the Bio-Ecosystems Conservation and Development Agency, partnerships expected to further strengthen the Department’s teaching and research agenda.
Curriculum Modernization and Administrative Improvements
A major milestone during Dr Batte’s tenure was securing a USD 200,000 grant to review and modernize the Department’s undergraduate and postgraduate geology curricula. The ongoing project aims to align academic programmes with emerging technologies, industry needs, and international best practices.
On the administrative front, Dr Batte reported significant improvements in governance and academic management. The Department successfully maintained up-to-date records of meetings with no backlog of unapproved minutes, ensured the timely submission of students’ examination results, and cleared pending postgraduate proposal presentations, enabling graduate students to progress without unnecessary delays.
Dr Batte’s Message to the Incoming Head
During the handover ceremony, Dr. Batte congratulated Dr. Kiberu on his appointment and wished him success in his new role. He expressed confidence that the Department was well positioned for continued growth, with strong institutional systems, strategic partnerships, and a dedicated team ready to support the new leadership. “I am confident that under your leadership, the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies will continue to excel and make significant contributions to Makerere University and the broader scientific community.”
He appreciated the University and College leadership, members of staff, students, and all stakeholders for the support, cooperation, and commitment they extended to him throughout his tenure as Head of Department. Dr. Batte acknowledged that the achievements realized during his leadership were a collective effort, made possible through the dedication of staff, the guidance of university leadership, and the continued collaboration of industry and institutional partners.
Dr Kiberu’s Vision for the Department
In his remarks, Dr Kiberu expressed gratitude to the University Management, the CoNAS leadership, and the School of Physical Sciences for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the department.
“It is a great honour and privilege to serve as Head of the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies. Leadership in academia is not simply about administration; it is about stewardship. It is about nurturing people, advancing knowledge, safeguarding institutional values, and creating opportunities that will benefit generations of students, researchers, and society. I pledge to serve with integrity and humility, and to lead with commitment to the continued growth and success of our Department.”
Dr Kiberu paid tribute to his predecessor for his dedicated service and acknowledged the strong foundation laid during the past four years.
“Every leader inherits both achievements and challenges,” Dr Kiberu noted. “I look forward to building upon that foundation while embracing new opportunities for growth.”
He outlined a vision centred on strengthening academic programmes, advancing research and innovation, expanding partnerships with industry and international institutions, improving the student experience, embracing digital transformation, and promoting transparency, accountability, teamwork, and collegiality.
He observed that geoscience is evolving rapidly, driven by the global energy transition, the growing demand for critical minerals, climate resilience, artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and advanced geophysical technologies.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that our teaching, research, and innovation remain relevant to national priorities while meeting international standards,” he said.
Dr Kiberu pledged to provide consultative, transparent, and inclusive leadership, emphasizing that the Department’s continued success would depend on collective effort.
“I pledge to lead through consultation, fairness, integrity, openness, and service,” he said. “Together, we can build an even stronger Department that attracts talented students, outstanding researchers, meaningful partnerships, and international recognition.”
Brief about Dr John Mary Kiberu
Dr. John Mary Kiberu is a distinguished geophysicist, petroleum geoscientist, and academic leader with over two decades of experience in teaching, research, mentorship, and institutional development at Makerere University. He holds a PhD (Dr. rer. nat.) in Geophysics from the Technical University of Berlin, Germany, an MSc in Geophysics from the University of Twente, Netherlands, and a BSc in Geology and Chemistry from Makerere University. He has served in the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies in various capacities, contributing significantly to the advancement of geoscience education, research, curriculum development, and international collaborations.
His expertise spans applied geophysics, petroleum geoscience, seismic interpretation, reservoir characterization, hydrogeophysics, and tectonic studies. Dr. Kiberu has led and participated in several nationally and internationally funded research and capacity-building initiatives, strengthening geoscience training and research at Makerere University and beyond. Through his extensive supervision of postgraduate research, publication record, and engagement with global academic partners, he has played a key role in advancing petroleum geoscience and earth science research in Uganda. His appointment to lead the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies reflects his longstanding commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and the continued growth of the department.
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