General
Mak holds Validation Meeting to enrich the Proposed Strategic Planning Framework
On 13th June 2018, a number of internal stakeholders comprising the Vice Chancellor and his Management Team, College Principals, representatives of academic and administrative units convened in the Senate Building Conference Hall to validate the proposed Makerere University Strategic Planning Framework that will inform the Makerere University Strategic Plan for the next ten years (2019/20-2029/30).
The Strategic Planning Framework focused on positioning Makerere University as the Regional Knowledge Hub will be used as a reference in the formulation of colleges /unit strategic plans that will inform the ten years Makerere University Strategic plan (2019/20-2029/30).
During the Validation Meeting, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe expressed commitment to the process of turning Makerere University into a research led University when he said, “We have the potential to be the research led University in Africa. Makerere University’s legacy in research and publications is known worldwide. We have made research in various critical areas and our research has made a strong impact to the community. I believe we have the potential for the new shift and we are shifting for better.”
The Chairperson of the Strategic Plan Drafting Committee, Dr. Isaac Okullo, who is also the Deputy Principal, College of Health Sciences noted that for each thematic area, a range of measures of success have been specified. These will provide the benchmark to assess baseline and progress of implementation over the plan period.
“The implementation of the ten year Strategic Plan will be phased into three year operational plans and annual work plans which will be assessed for realisation of the set targets. The annual work plan/ activities will guide the budgeting against which university performance will be assessed,” he stated.
He urged Colleges and Units to embark on the process of drafting the Colleges/Units Strategic Plans to enable the Strategic Plan Drafting Committee finalise its work on time. “We request that you identify a Planning Chairperson and constitute a Planning Committee of not less than five members to drive the planning process,” he said.
According to the Chairperson of the Strategic Planning Committee who is also the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration Prof. William Bazeyo, the new Strategic Plan is expected to align the University goals with the Sustainable Development Goals; the Agenda 2063 by the African Union; and the institution of National Development Plan II and Vision 2040.
“At its meeting on 29th November 2017, Makerere University Council identified inhibiting factors that need to be addressed as the university moves into the next planning cycle. The University Council also stressed the need to evaluate the placement of Makerere University in the national Development Agenda,” he said.
In February 2018, Makerere University embarked on the process that will culminate in the formulation of the next ten year Strategic Plan (2020/21-2029/30). The formulation of the new Mak Strategic Plan (2020/21-2029/30) will take a year-long participatory approach incorporating views of different stakeholders including staff, alumni, students, professional bodies, civil society, as well as the private and public sectors. The current 10 year Mak Strategic Plan is expected to come to an end in 2019.
The development of the Strategic Framework marks the beginning of the new direction of Makerere University Spanning over the next decade. It is envisaged, and as underlined by the Strategic Planning Retreat held in February 2018 at Entebbe, that the new strategic plan 2020/21-229/30 will address three key investment areas namely the institution, the human capital and the development impact. These will fit with in the structure of the core and support functions of the university.
The Strategic Planning Framework outlines the identity, vision, mission and core functions of Makerere University, puts forward the key procedures and parameters that will guide the Colleges/Units in the formulation of their plans and articulates the key performance indicators in terms of measures of success and benchmarking international and regional institutions in the plan formulation process.
While the outgoing strategic plan was more focused on processes, it is proposed that the new plan should target quality outputs and outcomes. As such the basis of the strategic plan is:
- Anchoring the University as a research led institution that contributes to the development of the national intellectual outputs and resources but also meets the requisite criteria of a regional hub;
- A reviewed research agenda that provides opportunities for exploitation of the talent among students and staff to engage with relevant stakeholders (industry, communities, private and public entities) as part of their research interests, with a focus on impacting and identifying future research requirements;
- Enhanced engagement with industry and business, and other end-users of research and promote knowledge transfer and commercialisation nationally, regionally and internationally;
- Increased value and volume of innovations spawned from university research and other functions;
- A problem/community-based learning approach that prepares a versatile, professionally grounded; ethical leader and change agent who is committed to lifelong learning;
- An equitable, inclusive and gender mainstreamed system in both academic and support function areas;
- A human resource system that will engender an engaged, motivated and highly productive workforce, Institutional Consolidation including transformation from the current partially implemented Collegiate system from a highly centralised to a largely decentralised Financial Management and less bureaucratic administrative system well entrenched in actual operational needs of the colleges; and
- A robust M&E system that will promote institutional learning and improvement in the service provision and outputs of the university.
The Director of Planning and Development Department Dr. Florence Nakayiwa said that new Strategic Plan envisions an efficient and effective university that is highly reputable with a recognised brand. It also looks at an engaged, motivated and highly productive workforce.
“The Strategic Plan also foresees a Makerere University graduate that is versatile, professionally grounded, has ethical values and committed to lifelong learning. It also positions the graduate as a leader and change agent, who has had a positive experience at Makerere University,” she said.
According to Dr. Nakayiwa, teaching and learning is the main mechanism through which the University contributes to the National Human capital Development needs. The University offers an array of disciplines ranging from humanities, performing and liberal arts to areas of science Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM). She noted that since the Makerere University Graduates at Bachelors, Masters, and PhD level should be distinct and equipped with requisite skills, the new plan will be geared towards creating the appropriate environment and support to the students to meet their academic and professional aspirations.
“The implication will be the institution of a robust, relevant and competence based 21st Century curriculum coupled with career guidance, counselling and mentorship. It will be a blended learning, integrated with field work and community services. Continuous dialogues and engagement with the students will define the teaching and learning interface at all times,” she explained.
“The curriculum will be a learner centred; promote participation, experimentation and collaborative learning. A problem/community-bases learning approach that prepares the learners to take on societal challenges will be adopted. The role of the academic staff is envisaged to change from lecturing to designing of learning experiences and environments in which students learn and work together with the lecturer thus becoming more of a coach. This will promote the critical intellectual dispositions and build capacity for independent thinking and analysis of unchartered and complex issues,” she added.
In a presentation, Mrs Patience Mushengyezi a Member of the Strategic Plan Drafting Committee said that the research agenda over the next 10 years period shall be determined by taking into account the research leadership role of Makerere University in undertaking both basic and applied research. The research thrust will be built on the established Centres of Excellence such as the African Centres of Excellence, the East African Centre of Renewable Energy Efficiency and the Waste Management Centre of Excellence.
“It is envisaged that the University will shift from exclusively focusing on creating an enabling environment to a position of defining, creating, nurturing and investing in the building blocks for a research university in Uganda. There will be a distinct shift to increased graduate enrolment and knowledge production. There will be efforts to engage government to fund graduate programmes through the loan scheme and other direct funding mechanisms,” she stated.
On Knowledge transfer partnership, Mrs Mushengyezi said that the new strategic plan will focus on generating knowledge and capacity through incubation centres, technology parks, intellectual Property and commercialisation of ideas.
- Discussing the Institution, Dr. Justine Namaalwa also a member of the Strategic Plan Drafting Committee said that the new strategic plan is ready to;
- Develop efficient, effective and highly reputable institutions recognised as a good brand
- Develop a culture that will engender an engaged, motivated and highly productive workforce
- Improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the Library Services
- Leverage the ICT as a platform for academic excellence and innovations at Makerere University
- Reposition the gender Mainstreaming program to excel in providing an equitable and gender responsive organisational environment
- Generate maximum benefit from university land holdings and existing infrastructure facilities
- Develop a devolved efficient financial management system
- Widen the university financial resource base
- Leverage resources and experience from the international experience of staff and students in teaching, learning, and research and service provision.
Article by: Mak Public Relations Office
Education
Makerere University signs Memorandum of Understanding with International Rescue Committee to Advance Research, Innovation and Partnerships
Makerere University has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Rescue Committee to formalize undertakings in research, innovation & partnerships.
Signed in September 2025 by the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the Country Director, International Rescue Committee, Mr. Elijah Okeyo, the MoU provides a framework to implement research intensive programmes, promote innovative teaching and learning, internationalization, and contribute to societal transformation.
According to Mr. Okeyo, the MoU re-affirms Makerere University as the academic partner of the International Rescue Committee (IRC). “This MoU formalizes IRC’s working relationship with Makerere University. This framework empowers both institutions to tap into opportunities together. We believe in equal partnership. Makerere University commits to being our partner in research to contribute to evidence based humanitarian undertakings,” he said.
Under this collaboration, Makerere University and IRC will work on developing child-centered learning resources, innovative curricula, and policy-relevant research to enhance the quality of education in crisis-affected regions.
At Makerere University, the MoU brings on board, the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Research Centre.
To concretize the MoU, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga convened a partnership meeting on Friday 12th September 2025 involving a delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Dr. David Kabugo, the Deputy Director of Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and Ms. Ritah Namisango, the Principal Communication Officer.
The delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) consisted of the following: Mr. Elijah Okeyo-Country Director, Mr. Vincent Wanyama-Senior Program Development and Quality Coordinator, Mr. Richard Omasete-Policy and Advocacy PlayMatters, and Ms. Janet Nambuya-Grants and Partnerships Coordinator.
The MoU focuses on the following areas of interest: Early Childhood Development, joint research and capacity building in education, the plight of refugees and the host communities, humanitarian aid, as well as, evidence based research to inform the education policy.
In line with its mandate, IRC brings onboard, its unmatched expertise in helping children in crisis-affected areas. The MoU therefore positions both institutions to undertake a leading role in the protection of children and families through evidence based research, access to education, and humanitarian undertakings.
Dr. Kabugo, the Deputy Director MITER, noted that the MoU opens new opportunities for joint efforts in research, training, and policy. He said: “We are committed to co-designing practitioner research, engaging in professional development, and generating evidence to guide the education policy in Uganda and beyond.” Dr. Kabugo explained that this partnership builds on years of cooperation between CEES and IRC, especially in child-centered methods such as play-based learning.
Prof. Mugagga described the MOU as a practical framework that connects Makerere University’s research with IRC’s field experiences. He stated that the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) conducts programmes focused on the future of the young people through training and empowering students/teachers. He articulated that the College significantly impacts on the education sector through delivery of quality academic programmes and research under the School of Education, School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, and the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development.
“Our strongest synergy is education and early child-focused care,” Prof. Mugagga emphasized. He revealed that the collaboration presents CEES with a strong and reliable partner (IRC), which stands for protection and the well-being of children and families. “Through this MoU, both CEES and IRC, will significantly contribute to improving education for children, families, and communities impacted by conflict and crisis.”
Prof. Mugagga commended IRC for the earlier support and expertise extended to the College in the development of the early childhood centre, and working together to provide valuable input during the Ministry of Education and Sports’ consultative process that led to the Early Childhood development policy.
Reflecting on the increasing number of refugees enrolling for studies at Makerere University, Prof. Mugagga said: “ IRC has come at the right time. The College will tap into the IRC expertise to teach our staff and learners components in refugee education. They will equip our students and teachers with knowledge and skills in refugee education. Some of our students will cooperate with IRC to undertake research in refugee settlement and host communities.”
Prof. Mugagga implored both MITER and IRC to undertake research and develop modules on refugee education, parenting, re-tooling street children, integration of a health component into the curriculum, and management of truamatised students/learners who come from areas affected by war, conflict and crisis.
On the issue of play materials, Prof. Mugagga stressed that already made play materials derial creativing. “Both CEES and IRC should work towards a context that empowers children and learners to ignite their creative potential by developing home-made play materials,” he submitted.
About IRC
Stating a brief profile history about IRC, Mr. Okeyo explained that IRC is a global non-profit organisation that provides humanitarian aid and assistance to people affected by conflict and disaster. IRC has been active in Uganda since 1998, originally assisting displaced populations in Northern Uganda and later expanding its efforts to refugee settlements and urban areas.. Currently, IRC operates more than 35 health facilities in refugee settlements and runs a variety of programs in health, education, protection, and economic recovery. IRC also undertakes projects focusing on early childhood development, prevention of gender-based violence, and protection of refugees and families.
General
Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University encouraged to participate in philanthropy work
By Carol Kasujja Adii and Bernard Buteera
Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University have been encouraged to embrace the spirit of philanthropy as a vital foundation for fostering stronger and more resilient communities. This inspiring call to action took place during the 2025 Community Open Day at the Freedom Square on Saturday, September 6, 2025, where hundreds of Mastercard Scholars, Scholar-alumni, and partners of the Scholars Program gathered to initiate a fundraising drive for the signature Annual Scholars Day of Service.
The Annual Scholars Day of Service stands as a hallmark event through which the Scholars give back to the community in impactful and sustainable ways. During a keynote address titled “How Philanthropy Shapes Resilient Communities,” Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration, emphasised that while local philanthropy is not a new concept in Uganda, a more intentional mobilisation of this giving back power is necessary to address broader social challenges.
“Communities that mobilise their own resources—financial, human, and material—are empowered to take ownership of their development. Ownership naturally leads to sustainability, ensuring that solutions emerge from local knowledge, context, and values rather than being imposed from the outside. This approach is essential for effectively tackling our social challenges,” Prof. Ireeta stated.
In his remarks delivered by Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Ireeta highlighted the importance of nurturing the inherent power of local giving. He urged the celebration of current local philanthropic efforts, which can be initiated at the individual, religious, and community levels.
“To foster a culture of giving, we need to create platforms that promote structured, transparent, and impactful contributions,” he argued. “It’s crucial to strengthen our generosity, particularly among the youth, and cultivate a society where giving is valued as a core aspect of leadership and citizenship.”
Prof. Ireeta further noted, “The future of our Communities’ strength lies not in distant promises but in our own hands and collective actions. By fostering local philanthropy, we can build a society that is not only fairer but also more resilient and united.
In his welcoming remarks, Mr. John Osuna, Transition Lead for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, who spoke on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, expressed gratitude to the Scholars for their collaborative efforts in turning the idea of giving back into reality.
“Let us embody humility, kindness, and compassion through actionable philanthropy. By doing so, we can create lasting impacts, enhancing our reputation as a community that genuinely cares,” Mr. Osuna stated.
The Community Open Day was organised under the inspiring theme: “Nurturing Philanthropy for Resilient Communities,” paving the way for future initiatives that strengthen community bonds through collective generosity.
“We believe that through nurturing philanthropy for resilient communities, our communities shall be able to organise themselves to build resilience beyond what we shall give back,” Mr. Osuna explained.
The vibrant event saw Scholars and Scholar-alumni actively participating by bringing items for auction and buying tickets for the raffle draw as a means of mobilising resources for the construction of a ventilated pit latrine, renovation of two classroom blocks and providing tanks for harvesting clean water for Bwera Primary School in Kabale District.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Agnes Katumba, the Director of Katumba Estates, one of the long-standing partners of the Scholars Program at Makerere University, tasked the Scholars to embrace the heart of giving back without expecting something in return.
“I thank the Mastercard Foundation; they not only provide scholarships but also give back to the community. I have been able to grow because of them. For scholars, you do not have to wait to be wealthy to give back; every coin counts,” Mrs. Katumba said.
Katumba Estates Ltd contributed three million shillings to the Scholars Give Back project. Another long-standing partner, DFCU Bank, pledged over sh10 million towards the Scholars’ building project.
In her presentation, Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar-alumna, urged current Scholars to contribute to their communities in various ways, including mentorship and guiding young people.
“We are all here because someone chose to give. During my first year at Makerere, I contributed to some young man’s school fees back home in my community. The young man is now in his second year at Makerere. You don’t have to be wealthy to make an impact; be intentional in your giving, and you will witness the difference it makes. There is no greater fulfilment than helping someone in need,” Akwara stated.
The event was punctuated with a number of activities that ranged from auctioning items, raffle draws, exhibitions, quizzes and a lot of games and fun.
Carol Kasujja and Bernard Buteera form the communications team for the Scholars Programme at Makerere University.
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