General
Mak Signs Collaboration Agreement with Guangdong University of Foreign Studies
Makerere University on Thursday, 17th May 2018 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Guangdong University of Foreign Studies (GDUFS) to promote cultural, educational exchange, collaboration and technical interchange between the two Universities. The MoU was signed on behalf of Mak by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and on GDUFS’ behalf by the President, Prof. Sui Guangjun. GDUFS is a public university and the only higher education institution in the Peoples Republic of China providing all-English programs in International Business, Chinese Business Culture and an all-English MBA program.
Speaking on behalf of the University Council, the Chairperson Eng. Dr. Charles Wana-Etyem who on 23rd April 2018, accompanied by the Chairperson Appointments Board Mr. Bruce Kabaasa visited GDUFS welcomed Prof. Sui as well as the Dongsong Energy Group CEO, Ms. Chen Wei and their respective delegations to Makerere University.
“Guangdong University of Foreign Studies has already made provisions for some of the things we are trying to start in Makerere University. While visiting Guangdong, we stayed at a hostel built by the University under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and managed by the private sector,” remarked the Chairperson.
“Universities are incubation centres for knowledge. When you devote all your energies to foreign studies, you can be sure that the foreign policy of the Peoples Republic of China is underpinned by staff doing academic work at the Guangdong University of Foreign Studies,” continued Eng. Dr. Wana-Etyem in address to Prof. Sui.
The Chairperson further remarked that the presence of all-English programs at GDUFS indicates that there will be no barrier for Mak staff and students who will take part in exchange activities under the MoU. Additionally, he appreciated the role played by the Dongsong Energy Group in fostering collaboration between Mak and GDUFS.
“I hope that soon after signing this MoU with Guangdong, we shall expedite the process of renewing the MoU between Makerere and Dongsong Energy Group, so that our students can undertake their internship at your factory and when the fertiliser production commences, more students will be at the forefront of training our farmers on how to use them. I once again thank the President and CEO for coming to Makerere University. You have my assurance that the University Council will support activities under this MoU one hundred percent,” concluded the Chairperson.
In his remarks, the Acting Commissioner for Higher Education, Mr. Mukwatampola Muzamir who represented the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, on behalf of the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) thanked the Chinese Government for the continued support to the Government of Uganda, especially the education sector.
“The Ministry of Education and Sports has enjoyed a lot of support in the form of scholarships to Ugandan students every year, for which we are grateful. I therefore thank you for accepting to partner with Makerere University in an MoU that will facilitate staff and student exchanges and further strengthen collaboration between the Peoples Republic of China and Uganda,” remarked Mr. Mukwatampola.
Mr. Mukwatampola thanked the Mak and GDUFS leadership for their hard work that culminated into the MoU signing and hoped that the parties would each fulfill their respective obligations under the agreement. He reassured the audience of the Government’s support and prayed that only the most deserving staff and students would benefit from the opportunities presented by the MoU.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe thanked Prof. Sui Guangjun, Ms. Chen Wei and their respective delegations for visiting Makerere University to personally take part in and witness the MoU signing.
“We are delighted to have these high powered delegations from Guangdong University of Foreign Studies and the Dongsong Energy Group as well as our own Chairperson of Council, Chairperson of Appointments Board, representative of the State Minister of Higher Education join the University Management to witness the signing of this MoU,” said the Vice Chancellor.
Prof. Nawangwe shared that Makerere University seeks to internationalise more intensely and the MoU signing ceremony with GDUFS presented the perfect opportunity to enhance this aspiration. He thanked the Dongsong Energy Group CEO Ms. Chen Wei for the role played in initiating the contact with Chinese universities four years ago and equally expressed Mak’s readiness to sign an MoU with her company.
“I thank you for hosting the Chairperson Council and his delegation during his recent visit to Guangdong and I know that this agreement we are signing today will pave the way for expanding collaborations between our two institutions even further,” said Prof. Nawangwe to Prof. Sui.
In his acceptance speech, Prof. Sui Guangjun thanked the Vice Chancellor and University leadership for the warm welcome, noting that it made him feel right at home. He shared that his University is located in Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong; one of China’s most advanced and developed provinces, and home to a thirty thousand-strong African Diaspora population.
“Similar to Makerere University, internationalisation is a major objective and we have collaborations with 355 universities in the world. Twenty five percent of our students have the opportunity to go abroad during their study and we offer double degrees in collaboration with our partners,” remarked Prof. Sui.
Prof. Sui who was fresh from attending the 2018 Joint Conference of Confucius Institutes in Africa held in Mozambique on 14th May shared that an extra 1,000 scholarships had been announced for African students, which pointed to the progress of friendship between China and Africa.
“Guangdong University of Foreign Studies is home to the only Research Institute in African Studies in Southern China. This is therefore the perfect opportunity to look forward to collaborations between our two universities and our Dean of the Institute for International Education, Mr. Liang Xuehong is here to promote student exchange,” remarked Prof. Sui.
In her remarks, Ms. Chen Wei thanked the Vice Chancellor and Chairperson Council for the warm welcome upon her first visit to Uganda. She expressed happiness at facilitating collaborations between the two institutions, noting that the Government of Uganda and delegation led by Eng. Dr. Wana-Etyem and Mr. Bruce Kabaasa had put in a lot of effort to make the MoU signing come to fruition. Ms. Wei acknowledged that her company would be a beneficiary of the MoU. “We can recruit some of the graduates trained as a result of this partnership,” she added.
The MoU signing ceremony was also witnessed by University Secretary-Mr. Charles Barugahare, Academic Registrar-Mr. Alfred Namoah Masikye, Director Human Resources-Mr. Andrew Abunyang, Director Internal Audit-Mr. Walter Yorac Nono, Director Legal Affairs-Mr. Henry Mwebe, Director Research and Graduate Training-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Acting Director Gender Mainstreaming-Dr. Euzobia Baine Mugisha, Deputy University Secretary-Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences- Prof. Edward k. Kirumira, Deputy Principal, College of Natural Sciences-Prof. Fredrick Muyodi, Dean School of Women and Gender Studies-Dr. Sarah Ssali, PA to the Vice Chancellor-Mr. Gordon Murangira, Senior Public Relations Officer-Ms. Ritah Namisango as well as members of staff of Makerere University and GDUFS.
Article by Public Relations Office
Makerere University has reaffirmed its commitment to preventing sexual harassment and gender-based violence (GBV) by strengthening the capacity of members of the Vice Chancellor’s Roster of 100, a pool of trained staff that supports the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) in investigating sexual harassment cases across the University.
The one-day training, held on 30th June 2026, brought together members of the roster to deepen their understanding of sexual harassment prevention and response, strengthen investigative skills, and share practical experiences from previous investigations. The programme also sought to reinforce implementation of Makerere University‘s Policy and Regulations against Sexual Harassment (PRASH) while drawing lessons from institutions with extensive experience in handling gender-based violence.
Opening the training, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, urged members of staff to shift their focus from responding to incidents to preventing them altogether.
“Prevention is far better than waiting for cases to happen and then beginning investigations. Our focus should be on creating an environment where incidents of sexual harassment do not occur in the first place,” he said.
Prof. Alinaitwe observed that as educators and members of staff, university employees are expected to serve as role models both within the institution and in the wider community. He noted that the University’s safeguarding, gender and sexual harassment policies were developed to ensure that every member of the University community studies and works in a safe environment.
He explained that sexual harassment extends beyond physical acts and may be verbal, non-verbal or electronic, including inappropriate messages, photographs, videos and social media communication. He encouraged timely reporting of incidents and emphasized that all complaints should be handled professionally, fairly and confidentially.
“Become champions of prevention within your departments and units. Let us guide our students, colleagues and all those who interact with the University. Our responsibility does not end within the University gates. The values we promote here should also shape our conduct in our homes, workplaces and communities,” he urged.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor reminded participants that every incident of sexual harassment undermines trust and damages the University’s reputation.
“One case of sexual harassment is already one case too many. Every incident affects individuals, damages trust, and undermines our institution. We must therefore do everything possible to prevent such behaviour,” he emphasized.
Earlier, the Chief of the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Dr. Euzobia Baine, welcomed participants and stressed that the University’s priority is to prevent sexual harassment before it occurs.
“The most important message today is prevention and response—and I want to emphasize prevention, prevention, prevention. We should not wait for incidents to occur before we act,” she said.
Dr. Baine noted that while the University continues to strengthen its response mechanisms, members of the roster must possess the knowledge and skills to respond appropriately whenever cases arise.
“We want our students to have a positive experience throughout their time at the University, and we also want all members of staff to work in a safe and respectful environment,” she added.
Presenting the objectives of the Vice Chancellor’s Roster of 100, Dr. Lillian Tukahiirwa from the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate explained that the training was intended to create a common understanding of sexual harassment prevention and response, enable members to reflect on their roles, learn from previous investigation committees, strengthen implementation of PRASH, and benchmark with institutions such as the Uganda Police Force and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Participants also received presentations on understanding gender-based violence, the legal and policy framework governing investigations, and practical approaches to handling complaints.
Speaking on the legal framework, the University’s Director of Legal Affairs, Ms. Sumaiyah Nanyondo Sebuta, reminded members of the roster that investigating sexual harassment cases requires professionalism, impartiality and strict confidentiality.
“Every complaint deserves to be handled carefully because the consequences affect both the alleged victim and the alleged perpetrator,” she said.
She explained that committee members are guided by international conventions, Uganda’s Constitution, national legislation and Makerere University‘s own policies, all of which seek to protect human dignity, eliminate discrimination and ensure fair treatment during investigations.
Ms. Sumaiyah further emphasized that investigators must avoid conflicts of interest, base their decisions solely on evidence, and protect the identities of complainants, respondents and witnesses throughout the investigation process.
The training also featured presentations by Principal Gender Officer Eric Tumwesigye on understanding gender-based violence and by Senior Superintendent of Police Carolyne Kushemererwa of the Uganda Police Force, who shared lessons from investigating sexual harassment and gender-based violence cases. Participants explored reporting mechanisms, survivor-centred approaches, confidentiality, accountability and strategies for preventing sexual harassment within institutions.
The Vice Chancellor’s Roster of 100 forms a critical component of Makerere University‘s institutional response to sexual harassment. By equipping members with investigative skills, knowledge of legal and policy frameworks, and practical experience, the University continues to strengthen its commitment to fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for students, staff and the wider university community.
By Monica Meeme, Cynthia Ayaa Komakec and Eric Tumwesigye
Makerere University, through its Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD), in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Embassy of Sweden, UNESCO O3 Plus have successfully trained 250 Student Peer Trainers (SPTs) to strengthen student-led efforts in promoting gender equality and the prevention of gender-based violence.
The three-day capacity-building workshop, held from 5th to 7th May 2026, brought together selected student leaders from across the University and formed part of Makerere University’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and gender responsive learning environment. The training equipped participants with practical knowledge and skills to serve as peer educators, advocates, mentors, and referral points for students requiring support on gender-related issues.
The workshop covered a wide range of thematic areas, including the Makerere University Gender Equality Policy, the Policy and Regulations Against Sexual Harassment (PRASH), international, regional and national legal frameworks on gender equality, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), leadership development, effective communication, and student-led advocacy and action planning.
Facilitators included Susan Mbabazi, Principal Gender Officer; Eric Tumwesigye, Principal Gender Officer; Carol Abilat Gender Officer; Cynthia Ayaa Komakec Gender Officer; Dr. Richard Mwesigwa of UNFPA; Dr. Lilian Tukahira Assistant Administrator; and Judith Kiconco, Gender Officer.
Day One: Building Foundations for Gender Equality and Inclusion
The opening day commenced with welcome and opening remarks delivered by Ms. Susan Mbabazi, Acting Chief Gender Mainstreaming Officer; Ms. Laura Criado Lafuente, Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA); and Dr. Rodney Rugyema, Office of the Dean of Students, who represented the Vice Chancellor.
Speaking on behalf of UNFPA, Ms. Laura Criado Lafuente described the training as more than a workshop, characterising it as a movement designed to empower students to influence attitudes, behaviours, and social norms within their communities. She encouraged participants to challenge harmful practices, support survivors of gender-based violence, and serve as catalysts for positive change both within and beyond the University.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Rodney Rugyema emphasised that Makerere University’s mandate extends beyond academic excellence to ensuring the safety, well-being, and holistic development of its students. He urged participants to avoid harmful relationships, prioritise personal safety, and actively contribute to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive campus environment.
Dr. Rugyema further described Student Peer Trainers as the “eyes and ears” of the University community, underscoring their vital role in raising awareness, identifying emerging challenges, and mobilising collective action to prevent and address gender-based violence.
The first day of the workshop also introduced participants to the principles of gender equality, gender mainstreaming, and the institutional frameworks that guide Makerere University’s efforts to promote inclusion, equity, and student welfare.
Ms. Susan Mbabazi provided a historical overview of the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate and highlighted the University’s sustained commitment to creating an equitable and supportive academic environment. She also guided participants through the key provisions of the Policy and Regulations Against Sexual Harassment (PRASH), emphasising the University’s zero-tolerance stance on sexual harassment and all forms of gender-based violence.
Mr.Eric Tumwesigye facilitated a session on foundational gender concepts, enabling participants to deepen their understanding of gender dynamics, stereotypes, power relations, and the importance of promoting equality and inclusivity within university spaces.
A key highlight of the day was a presentation by Ms. Carol Abilat on the Makerere University Gender Equality Policy. She emphasised that gender equality is fundamentally rooted in fairness, dignity, and equal opportunity for all members of the University community, including marginalised groups and persons with disabilities.
Ms. Abilat further explained that the policy aligns with national development priorities and international commitments, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 on Gender Equality. Participants were introduced to critical concepts such as consent, sexual harassment, discrimination, gender blindness, and inclusive approaches to teaching, learning, leadership, and institutional management.
Day Two: Understanding Legal Frameworks and Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights
The second day focused on strengthening participants’ understanding of legal and policy frameworks that promote gender equality and protect individuals from discrimination, sexual harassment, and gender-based violence.
Facilitating the session on international, regional, and national legal frameworks, Cynthia Ayaa Komakec provided participants with a comprehensive overview of key human rights instruments and gender equality commitments.
At the international level, participants examined frameworks such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), and the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. Discussions highlighted how these instruments have shaped global efforts to eliminate discrimination and advance the rights and empowerment of women and girls.
The regional discussion focused on the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Protocol to the African Charter on the Rights of Women in Africa (Maputo Protocol), which provide important protections and promote women’s participation in social, economic, and political development across the continent.
The session also examined Uganda’s national legal and policy framework, including the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda (1995), the Uganda Gender Policy, and relevant provisions of the Penal Code Act.
A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the implementation gap that often exists between legal protections and actual practice. Participants explored the importance of accountability, institutional commitment, awareness creation, and community engagement in translating legal frameworks into meaningful outcomes.
The day also featured a session on Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) facilitated by Dr. Richard Mwesigwa from UNFPA.
Dr. Mwesigwa introduced participants to UNFPA’s mandate and mission before guiding them through key concepts relating to sexual health, reproductive health, rights, and access to services. The session addressed the importance of informed decision-making, consent, healthy relationships, prevention of gender-based violence, and available support mechanisms for students experiencing harassment or abuse.
Participants were also equipped with practical guidance on how Student Peer Trainers can provide information, make referrals, and support fellow students in accessing appropriate services and assistance.
Throughout the day, facilitators emphasised the need to position students as active change agents capable of promoting positive behavioural change within colleges, halls of residence, and wider communities.
Day Three: Partnerships, Leadership and Action Planning
The final day focused on strengthening peer leadership skills and equipping participants with practical tools for developing and implementing student-led initiatives.
Representatives from development partners reaffirmed the importance of youth leadership and collaborative action in addressing gender inequalities and preventing gender-based violence.
Addressing participants, Jessica Pellrud from the Embassy of Sweden emphasised that gender equality remains a critical pillar of sustainable development. She encouraged students to become long-term advocates for social transformation by challenging harmful norms, supporting survivors, and promoting inclusive participation among both women and men.
Eric Tumwesigye reflected on the growth of the Student Peer Trainers programme noting that the initiative has expanded from training 50 students annually to 250 peer educators. The expansion is intended to strengthen outreach and increase access to peer support services across the University.
He encouraged participants to integrate gender awareness into broader discussions on mental health, academic achievement, healthy relationships, and responsible digital engagement.
Facilitating the action-planning session, Dr. Lilian Tukahirwa guided participants through the process of designing practical and achievable interventions for their respective colleges. She emphasised the importance of creativity, flexibility, teamwork, and collaboration with academic staff and College leadership to ensure sustainable impact.
The workshop concluded with participants developing action plans aimed at promoting gender equality, preventing sexual harassment, and strengthening awareness and support mechanisms within their academic units.
Renewed Commitment to Student-Led Change
In his closing remarks, Eric Tumwesigye commended participants for their commitment, discipline, and active engagement throughout the three-day training programme. He also acknowledged the valuable contributions of facilitators and development partners, including UNFPA, and the Embassy of Sweden.
He announced that participants would undertake online evaluations and receive support in developing concept papers for college-based initiatives designed to promote gender equality and prevent sexual harassment.
Tumwesigye emphasised that while institutional support remains critical, the long-term success of the programme depends on sustained student leadership, ownership, and commitment.
The workshop concluded with a renewed pledge from the newly trained Student Peer Trainers to champion gender equality, support vulnerable students, and contribute to building a safer, more inclusive, and gender-responsive Makerere University community.
-
General6 days agoUndergraduate Admission Lists 2026/2027
-
General2 weeks agoMakerere Hands Over CCE Hall to NEC for Renovation
-
Natural Sciences1 week agoMakerere University to Revamp Geology Curricula to Bridge Critical Skills Gap in Uganda’s Mineral Sector
-
Business & Management2 weeks agoMakerere Graduates Sixth Cohort of IGE Fellows to Drive CSA
-
General1 week agoPress Statement: Makerere University Launches Ambitious Strategic Plan 2026–2030