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MARCCI Procures Equipment Worth One Billion

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Makerere University’s World Bank funded Regional Centre for Crop Improvement (MaRCCI) on Friday June 29th 2018 procured the recent first class agricultural equipment to help students in the tilling of land for crop improvement.

The equipment procured at a cost of about sh1b was received by the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe at the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute (MUARIK) Kabanyolo.

Prof. Nawangwe while receiving the equipment stressed the need for the institute to embrace commercial production of crops which can help in the feeding of the University students, staff and other members of the general public.

He challenged the Agricultural College (CAES) to utilize the equipment to till the large chunk of land at Kabanyolo such that they can transit into commercial production.
Dr. Richard Edema  talk to Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre), Principal Prof. Bernard Bashaasha(Left)  and other staff at the entrance of the newly constructed Biotechnology Laboratory funded under HEST -project
“This can help us to utilize the proceeds not only to sustain our staffs but even to sustain the equipment such that agricultural expansion at the university can be enhanced, “he said.

Prof. Nawangwe also challenged the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES) to take advantage of the partnerships the University has with Israel to have large plantations not only at Kabanyolo but also other places to grow crops such as Ovacado which has proved to have a huge market on the international scene.

He said the University has instituted a committee to begin investigations and recovery of all the land that belonged to the university.

He said the University is working with local governments to ensure that all the land that belongs to Makerere is free from encroachment so that the university can invest on it.

Prof. Nawangwe also applauded the college towards the equipment saying MaRCCI being a regional project, the first class equipment will enhance agricultural development in the entire region.

“I am impressed with what I have seen at our institute and I am sure that since they are the latest equipment they will greatly improve agricultural studies at the university and agriculture as a whole.

Dr. Richard Edema, the Director of the Regional Centre explained that the equipment worth sh1b include a tractor, a plough, a hauler, a planter ,an automatic fertilizer and insect side application machine and will greatly make mechanization and planting easier for the students.

“With this first class equipment, we shall help students open a lot of experimental land for cowpea, sorghum among other crops", he said.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Makerere University won a $6 million USD World Bank Grant for the establishment of the Regional Centre of Excellence in Crop Improvement within the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES).

The Centre according to Dr. Edema is an expansion of current activities of the university Regional Graduate Programs in Plant Breeding with the main objective of strengthening the PhD program in Plant Breeding in Biotechnology, the MSc in Plant Breeding and Seed Systems, applied research in various crops, and outreach activities to improve Ugandan agriculture through enhancing the skills of public and private personnel supporting crop breeding and production activities.

He said the grant provides for additional scientific and support staff and enhancement of facilities and equipment with the goal of modernizing and expanding the teaching, research, and service activities of MaRCCI in a sustainable manner.

He re-echoed that the Institute used to do a lot of small level field trials but with the equipment a lot more acreage of land will be tilled to enhance field trials.

“There are some nice varieties that we want to expand the trials and we hope this will help us a lot to increase the acreage on top of producing good varieties which can be distributed to farmer’s multiplication.

He observed that sorghum and cowpeas are crops grown on low level for food, but they want to upgrade them to become raw materials for industries through increasing their yields to enhance industrial sustainability.
Vice Chancellor Prof Nawangwe (centre) touring improved sorghum garden at Kabanyolo farm
“We are trying to increase the yields of these two crops such that they can liberate the country in terms of industrial raw materials to help farmers increase their income at the same time fight against food insecurity", he said.

The Principal of CAES Prof Bernard Bashaasha said the Institute has been having a problem of farm power equipment but with the new equipment, more land will be opened and be utilized beyond students.

He said the College is planning to involve everybody to promote the growing of avocados for commercial production.

He said the MaRCCI means a lot to the College and the entire university. MaRCCI is helping the College to achieve the objectives of training, research and outreach.

“It is enabling us to train for the region and for Africa as reflected in the number of international students who are part of the project equivalent to 40 students", he said.

Towards research, Prof. Bashaasha stressed that the project is building the research value chain because it has produce state-of-the-art lab equipment to train both Uganda’s scientists and those in the region to breed new seeds developing them and trial testing them in the field and with farmers.

He said MaRCCI has done a lot on outreach where some students are carrying out farm trials where as some farmers come to the College for training on top of capacity building of the staff.

He said the Institute has about 600hectates of land at Kabanyolo which has not been maximally utilised. The Institutehas one tractor which has been overused and always breaking down.

“What we need now are the brand new long life tractors which we can use beyond students and staff experiments to open up more land for commercial production", he said.

Dr. Dramadri Isaac Ojega, a crop breeder in cow pea said the project is helping him to improve cow pea for diseases, pests, drought and high yield.

“We are currently having cowpea varieties and we are evaluating a collection of cow pea line both locally in Uganda and also from the international collaborators in the University of California. The best line in the field that will be evaluated for three years will be recommended to farmers", he said.
One of the newly built Laboratory with funding from African Development Bank
He said that the cowpea being a legume has a low production of less than 200,000 tones per a year which is quite very low.

“In most of the Northern, North East and some parts of Karamoja which are prone to drought and flooding, they really need this crop because it survives very well in such areas", he remarked.

 

Elias Tuhereze

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Master’s Scholarship Opportunities: Call For Applications – Faculty Initiated Ideas

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A hands-on session in the Biomedical Engineering Unit Lab. College of Health Sciences (CHS), New Mulago Complex, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Biomedical Engineering Unit, Department of Physiology at Makerere University College of Health Sciences (MakCHS), Uganda in conjunction with Case Western Reserve University, USA received a grant from the U.S. NIH – Fogarty International Center to train Ugandans in Biomedical Engineering (BME). This program’s main aim is to build capacity for medical technology innovation and develop human capacity interested in research in Biomedical Engineering.

As such, this program is currently soliciting for applications from suitably qualified Ugandans for Scholarships that will lead to the award of Engineering or closely related degree. MSc students from these programs at Makerere University are highly encouraged to apply: Technology Innovation and Industrial Development from College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Computer Science (CoCIS) and Immunology and Clinical Microbiology, Masters of Health informatics, Master of Bioinformatics (CHS) but also open to closely related degrees. Funding for tuition, stipend and research costs will be available for a maximum of one academic year (Masters of Science).

A modest monthly stipend and reasonable research funds will be provided. Students are required to pick up to 2 topics those in the table (see downloads) indicating good reasons for the choice. The candidates should strictly limit their application to these preselected projects.

Selection Criteria:

  1. Minimum qualifications: Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in an in Engineering or Health-related field from a recognized university
  2. Projects only limited to the preselected ones- the candidate will then develop a MSc concept/proposal based on these
  3. Technology focus of biomaterials and drug delivery, point-of-care diagnostics, biomedical imaging, and data analytics and artificial intelligence.
  4. Evidence of good performance in year one of MSc program is a requirement
  5. Applicants should be ready and willing to undergo oral interviews

Submit only the following documents as a single PDF file to sightproject2022@gmail.com and indicate in the subject “Scholarship MSc Application 2025”.

  • Certified copies of relevant academic documents
  • Two reference letters
  • Statement of motivation (not more than 500 words)
  • A brief CV of not more than four (4) pages.

Application Deadline: 30th May, 2025
Interview date: 6th June, 2025
Notification date: 13th June, 2025

For clarifications contact: Ms. Basemera Joanittah Tel: 0701925906/0774572385 Email: birungijoanah@gmail.com

Mak Editor

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Uphold Makerere and Mastercard Foundation values during this Holiday

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Prof. Justine Namaalwa addresses Scholars during the family day event on 19th May 2025. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Program Director for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, Prof Justine Namaalwa, has urged Scholars to uphold Makerere and Mastercard Foundation values during the holiday period.

Speaking at the family day event held on Monday, May 19, 2025 at the Rugby grounds at Makerere University, Prof Namaalwa emphasized the importance of integrity, responsibility and community engagement, encouraging Scholars to be ambassadors of positive change even while away from campus.

“As you return to your homes and countries, I encourage you to volunteer your time and data to support prospective applicants for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, as the application process is online. You will feel fulfilled when someone you supported earns the scholarship. Do not ask for a single coin just offer your help and proudly uphold the Makerere flag.” Prof. Namaalwa, noted.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa enjoys a fun moment with teams that took part in the sack race. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa enjoys a fun moment with teams that took part in the sack race.

In her speech, Prof. Namaalwa also challenged Scholars to lead, serve, and uplift their communities, emphasizing the need to make transformational leadership a lived reality. She called upon Scholars to engage in community-based learning activities during the holiday period, initiatives that align with their academic programs or personal passions as a way of applying their knowledge and values in meaningful, practical ways.

“When you go back for the holidays, identify a problem in your community that relates to your degree program. It could be an issue like poor sanitation or low immunization rates among children under five. Document the problem and think critically about possible solutions bearing in mind that the issue you choose should inspire an academic research project, an entrepreneurial initiative, or a social venture idea.” Prof.Justine Namaalwa said.

 Themed  ‘Building and Strengthening Our Bonds’ the Family Day event brought together over 100 Scholars, mentors, and members of the Program Implementation Team of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University. The day was marked by interactive games, storytelling, and meaningful engagement, all aimed at fostering connection, collaboration, and a strong sense of community within the Program.

Participants engage in aerobics. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants engage in aerobics.

The day kicked off with a lively aerobics session, setting an energetic tone for the activities ahead. Scholars then participated in a variety of fun and engaging activities including sack races, running competitions, and puzzle challenges. These activities fostered teamwork and excitement, with several Scholars and their family groups walking away with gifts and tokens of appreciation for their participation and enthusiasm.

During the event, Dr. Rodney Rugyema, the Acting Dean of Students, commended the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University for its impactful role in uplifting young people. He highlighted the value of initiatives such as counselling, mentorship, and entrepreneurship support, noting that these programs are instrumental in shaping well-rounded, empowered future leaders.

Dr. Rugyema also took the opportunity to counsel Scholars on responsibility and focus, urging them to avoid engaging in sexual relationships before completing their studies.

Dr. Rodney Rugyema. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Rodney Rugyema.

“You left home to change home. Do not forget the goal. Be responsible. Avoid engaging in sexual activities that may lead to unintended responsibilities. During the holidays, learn a skill, be productive, or plant trees. Save the environment and be part of the change.”

In his remarks, Derrick Asiimwe, President of the Scholars Association at Makerere University, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Program Implementation Team for their unwavering support. He thanked them for grooming Scholars into leaders, offering comfort during challenging times, and treating them with the care and concern of a parent. His words reflected the deep sense of gratitude and belonging felt by Scholars within the Program.

Derrick Asiimwe. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Derrick Asiimwe.

 “It can’t go without mention that you have really loved and disciplined us. You are the true definition of Mathew 19:14 where Jesus said let the children come and not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to us,” Asiimwe, said. The vibrant day came to a close with members of the Shalom family emerging as overall winners, proudly walking away with the trophy a testament to their teamwork, spirit, and active participation throughout the event.

More highlights from the family day

Bottle filling was part of the fun and games. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Bottle filling was part of the fun and games.

Female participants engage in one of the challenges. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Female participants engage in one of the challenges.

Scholars running during the fun and games. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Scholars running during the fun and games.

Mr. John Osuna (Centre) presents a gift to a participant. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. John Osuna (Centre) presents a gift to a participant.

Scholars show off their certificates. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Scholars show off their certificates.

Carol Kasujja
Carol Kasujja Adii

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Directorate of Graduate Training Conducts a Training for Trainer of Trainees in Scholarly Writing & Communication Skills

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By Moses Lutaaya

The Directorate of Graduate Training has equipped scholarly and communication skills to lecturers on facilitating PhD programs in different schools and colleges.

This was during a training dubbed “Training of Trainers” organized by Directorate of Graduate Training with funding support from the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA). The workshop, conducted in the training lab in the Main University Library, was spearheaded by facilitators from the School of Languages, Literature and Communication, where the course is housed.

Officiating at the training, the Director of Graduate Training at Makerere University, Prof. Julius Kikooma highlighted that the training aimed at strengthening and enhancing the capacity of schools and colleges in handling PhD studies.

“We select a few lecturers, comprehensively train them and we usually have them cascade the knowledge to other lecturers in the different schools and colleges.” Prof. Kikooma said.

Prof. Kikooma said the University had streamlined admissions into the PhD by research program at Makerere University. Presently, there are now two intakes per academic year, highlighting an increase in the number of applicants and admissions.

“Because of the increased number of applicants and admissions, the central management has put great emphasis on improving the environment for teaching, learning, and research for graduate students generally.” He said.

Prof. Kikooma said that in a bid to achieve a better learning environment, the Directorate of Graduate Training had spearheaded efforts to strengthen the capacity of staff in various schools to handle the PhD training.

The schools whose staff participated in the ToT included, School of Public Health, the East African School for Higher Education Studies & Development, Makerere University Business School, East Africa School of Library & Information Sciences, the School of Agricultural Sciences and College of Computing and Information Sciences.

The training that was supported by CARTA, Prof. Kikooma said “CARTA generally mobilizes resources to support researchers, especially graduate students, including Thesis completion, capacity building of researchers as well as support on actual PhD research.”

He added, “Makerere University prides in collaborations with partners that have resource mobilization power that is bigger than that of universities, saying, these support capacity building and competitive grants for Mak. The partners include the Council for Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA) and CARNEGIE, based in New York.”

He however noted that the landscape for development partners continues to shift in terms of emphasis, this was not a sustainable way of supporting graduate training students and called for the need to work aggressively with government departments and agencies including the National Planning Authority to find more sustainable ways for addressing funding for graduate education in the country.

The trainers included Dr. Charles Kato – the Head of Department Biomedical Laboratory Technology and Molecular Biology- College of Veterinary Animal Resources and Biosecurity and Prof. Levis Mugumya, the Head of Department of Linguistics, English Language Studies and Communication Skills at School of Languages Literature & Communication.

Mak Editor

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