Makerere University has expanded her collaboration with the Nottingham Trent University (NTU), United Kingdom, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions on Friday, 4th May 2018. Prior to the signing of the MoU, NTU had previously collaborated with the School of Public Health (MakSPH), College of Health Sciences (CHS) for close to 10 years, on the basis of renewable 3 year agreements.
“Our collaboration with NTU started under the leadership of Prof. William Bazeyo and Dr. David Musoke has been the lead between the School and NTU. As MakSPH, we are excited that this collaboration is now expanding to the rest of the University” remarked Assoc. Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, Dean MakSPH who succeeded Prof. Bazeyo.
“MakSPH is already benefitting from her collaboration with NTU through a 6million Euros project conducting research on cardiovascular disease prevention” continued Assoc. Prof. Wanyenze before adding, “NTU has already expressed interest in expanding collaboration to the disciplines of Law as well as Gender Studies and in this regard, the Dean, Assoc. Prof. Sarah Ssali visited NTU on 3rd May 2018.”
In his remarks, Prof. William Bazeyo the former Dean, MakSPH and current Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) thanked NTU for the support extended to the School in general and Dr. David Musoke in particular. “This collaboration started with only GBP5,000 and since then, we have been looking at expanding it. Thanks to this collaboration, David is one of the best young scientists at MakSPH and we equally thank him for working hard to drive this expansion forward. Having the NTU Pro-Vice Chancellor join us here today to sign this MoU is a great achievement.”
Prof. Cillian Ryan is a wearer of many hats at NTU. He is not only the Pro-Vice Chancellor International (head of NTU’s International activity) but also the Head of the College of Business, Law, and Social Sciences. He is additionally in charge of Sport at NTU and offers strategic advice on its provision.
“We are extremely privileged to be here today, as Makerere University has been one of our most outstanding partnerships. To date we have trained or are training 5 Masters students and 1PhD student” remarked the Pro-Vice Chancellor.
He was happy to note that Makerere, just like NTU, recognises the importance of working for the wellbeing of community. He added that NTU conducts a lot of research on challenges common to societies both in Europe and Africa such as wastewater management, food safety and protection and how to break free and be successfully rehabilitated from addictions to alcohol, drugs and gambling.
“As a result of our extensive research, three years ago (in 2015), we earned the Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education, which is the highest national honour given to universities in the UK” remarked Prof. Ryan. He further shared that NTU has made several strides in medical patenting and has recently produced an entire artificial human body that can be used, instead of cadavers, for teaching medical students.
“Research foundations are really important when coming up with memoranda of understanding and we would therefore want to identify more areas of research partnership with Makerere University” concluded Prof. Ryan.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe warmly welcomed Prof. Ryan and his two colleagues; Mr. Stephen Williams, Director NTU Global and Ms. Teresa Dymond, Regional Partnership Coordinator-EAAA NTU to Makerere University. “Thank you for honouring us by wearing the Mak necktie.”
Prof. Nawangwe also paid tribute to NTU and the MakSPH leadership for the close to 10 years of fruitful collaboration. “The School of Public Health is our flagship in research and we thank them for forging this fruitful partnership with NTU. I also thank them for not being selfish but identifying other disciplines through which this collaboration can be broadened” he added.
The Vice Chancellor emphasized that Makerere University is always on the lookout for partnerships and expressed happiness at signing an MoU where activities were already being undertaken “This is a remarkable exception” he noted.
“We have grown in research and are currently ranked among the best in Africa, thanks to funding from our partners, NTU being among them. Our focus is to become truly research-led and be counted among the top research institutions in the world” added Prof. Nawangwe.
Prof. Nawangwe further shared that Makerere is a world-renowned leader in HIV/AIDS research and is also home to a fully fledged Infectious Diseases Institute, with preparations underway to establish a Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) centre as well. “We have also contributed a lot to ensuring food security in the Nation and our Refugee Law Project under the School of Law as well as other centres have played vital roles in research on peace and conflict resolution” he added.
The Vice Chancellor once again thanked Dr. David Musoke for being a good Ambassador of Makerere to NTU and expressed the University Management’s commitment to ensuring that the new collaboration is further strengthened. He thereafter handed over Mak souvenirs to the visiting NTU delegation. In reciprocity, Prof. Ryan handed over a framed lace made by English designer Sarah Burton, who also designed the Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding dress. Nottingham has a rich history of lace-making and was once the lace making capital of the world.
The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites persons with disability who applied for admission to public universities under the disability entry scheme for 2026/2027 Academic Year to appear for medical/review exercise at Makerere University, Senate Building, Level Four Conference Hall.
NOTE: Only those who have the minimum entry requirements of at least two principal passes at A’ Level or its equivalent and at least five (5) passes at O’ Level or its equivalent will be interviewed.
Only candidates who sat ‘A’ level in 2025, 2024 and 2023 are eligible for admission.
THE EXERCISE WILL BE CONDUCTED ON 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st and 22nd May, 2026 respectively from 9.00 A.M – 1.00 P.M each day.
In this exclusive quick chat, we spoke to the 91st Guild President, Ssentamu Churchill James, a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Social Sciences. He shares insights into his leadership journey, key achievements, challenges, and his vision for the student community.
What inspired you to run for Guild President?
My background and personal leadership journey played a big role. Growing up, I saw my father and uncle actively involved in politics, which shaped my interest in leadership.
I also held leadership roles in high school—serving as Sports Minister at O-Level and later as Head Prefect at St. Juliana High School, Gayaza, during my A-Level. These experiences built my confidence and passion for representing others.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi with the H.E. Ssentamu, H.E. Kadondi, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli and family members of the Guild Leadership.
Seeing former Guild President Vincent Lubega Nsamba win also motivated me. We come from the same high school, and I succeeded him as Head Prefect. That gave me the belief that I, too, could lead at that level.
What was your vision when you assumed office, and how much of it did you achieve?
My vision was to amplify students’ voices and ensure their needs were prioritized. While it wasn’t easy due to bureaucracy, we made progress.
We improved students’ social welfare by engaging management, which led to greater flexibility in organizing events like the Bazaar and Freshers’ Ball. We also addressed the issue of missing marks. Previously, it could take semesters to resolve, but now, through the Office of the Academic Registrar, such issues can be handled much faster.
What is your biggest achievement?
One of the biggest milestones was allowing students to sit for examinations after paying at least 60% of tuition. This has reduced the number of students dropping out due to financial constraints.
Left to Right: MD and CEO NEC-Lt. Gen. James Mugira conducts a symbolic handover of keys to the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe as 91st Guild President-H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James, Principal CEES and Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Deputy University Secretary-Mr. Simon Kizito and Deputy Dean of Students-Dr. Rodney Rugyema witness on 25th July 2025.
We also saw the lifting of the ban on social events, which has gradually revived campus life. Additionally, leadership roles such as ministers and Guild Representative Councillors (GRCs) have become more functional, with clearer responsibilities and greater impact.
What key lessons have you learned?
One key lesson is the importance of daring to take action. Things may seem impossible, but once you step out and try, you realize they are achievable.
I also learned that leadership begins with influence. For example, when class representatives raised concerns about not being paid, I had to engage and influence them to understand the situation while working toward solutions.
Leadership also requires teamwork. You cannot lead alone—you need a support system. When you delegate, trust people and avoid micromanaging.
H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James and H.E. Kadondi Gracious welcome freshers in typical Makerere style.
Another lesson is the importance of effective communication with management. Building strong relationships increases your chances of influencing decisions.
On a personal level, I have learned discipline—keeping time, improving how I present myself, and becoming more mindful in how I engage with others.
What do you attribute your success to?
First and foremost, God, who gave me the wisdom and understanding to lead.
I also attribute it to the strong working relationships I built with University leadership, especially the Vice Chancellor and the Dean of Students. Without that collaboration, it would have been difficult to achieve much.
How did you balance academics and leadership?
It required intentional planning and prioritization. When meetings clashed with tests, I delegated to the Vice President or Prime Minister. This ensured continuity while giving them an opportunity to grow.
H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu alongside other Student Leaders hold the “Strides for Change” banner at Mary Stuart Hall. Courtesy Photo.
However, I made it a point to attend critical engagements, such as Council meetings, because I was entrusted with representing students’ voices. I was also selective about external engagements to remain focused on my academics.
What challenges did you encounter?
Managing high expectations from students was a major challenge. Even small delays could attract criticism. For example, when students’ upkeep delayed by a week, some assumed I was not advocating for them.
I learned to remain calm and not react emotionally, instead using feedback as motivation to improve.
Another challenge was handling sensitive cases, such as advocating for students who had been suspended. Even when I did not agree with their actions, it was my duty to seek fair consideration on their behalf.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Mr. Ian King and H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James (Standing before Banners) are joined by officials in a group photo in the Daycare Centre, located on the Ground Floor of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) on 7th August 2025.
Was there a difficult decision you had to make?
Yes. Just a month into office, I made the decision to relieve a minister of their duties because they did not align with the cabinet’s vision and values. Leadership requires making tough decisions to maintain unity and integrity.
Is there anything you would have done differently?
I feel I could have engaged more with the administration. At times, I was occupied with activities outside the University, which limited my interaction with management. With more engagement, I believe I could have achieved even more.
What will you miss most?
I will not necessarily miss the office itself. Leadership is about service, and it is now time for others to take on that responsibility as I move on to the next chapter of my life.
H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu enjoys a light moment with officials as he endorses the dummy of the policy.
How would you like to be remembered?
As a selfless leader who went the extra mile to serve others and always put students’ interests first—even when it required personal sacrifice.
For instance, during the Freshers’ Ball, we wanted to host a musician whose fee was UGX 4 million, yet we only had UGX 2 million. I personally covered the balance to make it happen for the students.
At Makerere University, the future didn’t feel distant, it felt urgent, alive, and within reach.
For three days in March, the university’s grounds transformed into a vibrant meeting point of ambition and opportunity as students, graduates, and industry leaders converged for the 2026 Careers Fair. Lecture halls spilled into exhibition spaces, conversations replaced uncertainty, and for many students, career dreams began to take clearer shape.
A Question That Defined the Moment: Man or Machine?
The opening day set the tone with a bold theme;“Machine vs. Man”, placing artificial intelligence at the center of career conversations. Students listened, questioned, and reflected as leaders challenged them not to fear technology, but to harness it.
The message was clear: the future belongs to those who can adapt.
Chief Guest-Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero (5th L) with Prof. Moses Musinguzi (3rd L), Chair Organising Committee-Prof. Anthony Gidudu and other Speakers on Day 1 of the Makerere Careers Fair.
Speakers emphasized that while AI is reshaping industries, it is also creating new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation. For many students in attendance, this was more than a discussion—it was a wake-up call to rethink their place in a rapidly evolving world.
Beyond Jobs: Unlocking Global Opportunities
If Day One provoked thought, Day Two opened doors.
The focus shifted to scholarships, fellowships, and international study opportunities, expanding students’ horizons beyond the immediate job market. Conversations moved from “What job can I get?” to “What possibilities exist for me globally?”
Mr. James Katumba (R) contributes to the panel discussion.
Students explored pathways into prestigious programmes, exchange opportunities, and further study options, discovering that their ambitions could stretch far beyond borders.
Where Potential Meets Purpose
By the final day, the Careers Fair had evolved into something deeper—a platform for connection.
Under the theme “Connecting Potential to Purpose,” industry leaders, employers, and development partners engaged directly with students, emphasizing collaboration as the key to career success.
Across Freedom Square and exhibition booths, students asked tough questions, shared ideas, and made meaningful connections. Employers, in turn, offered insights into the skills that matter most in today’s workplace—adaptability, creativity, and critical thinking.
Gorretti Byomire contributes to the panel discussion.
More than 50 organizations participated, turning the fair into a living ecosystem of mentorship, networking, and opportunity.
Stories That Defined the Experience
But beyond the panels and presentations, it was the human moments that stood out.
There was the student who, after a conversation with a recruiter, discovered a career path they had never considered. The group of finalists who used simple tools like mobile phones to create powerful messages about safety and inclusion, reminding everyone that innovation often begins with what is available.
And there were countless quiet exchanges, handshakes, questions, shared laughter—that carried the weight of possibility.
Students attending the career fair on day three at the Freedom Square.
A Bridge to the Future
What emerged from the three-day experience was not just a successful event, but a powerful reminder of the university’s role as a bridge, linking academic training to real-world demands.
The Careers Fair reaffirmed Makerere’s commitment to preparing students not just for employment, but for meaningful participation in shaping the future. It brought into focus a simple but profound truth: careers are not built in isolation—they are nurtured through connections, curiosity, and courage.
For many students who walked through the fair, the journey ahead no longer felt uncertain. It felt possible.