On 5th July 2018, the Rector of University of Agder, Norway Prof. Frank Reichert visited Makerere University ahead of the 1st International Conference on Open, Distance and eLearning (DELC 2018 International conference). Accompanied by delegates from University of Agder, the Principal of College of Education and External Studies Prof. Fred Masagazi Masaazi and the Deputy Principal of College of Education and External Studies Dr. Paul Birevu Muyinda, Prof. Frank Reichert paid a courtesy call to the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.
DELC 2018 International Conference is one of the activities of Distance Education Leapfrogging Project (DELP). The Conference is organised by University of Agder, Norway and Makerere University College of Educational Studies. It will take place on 9th-10th July 2018 under a theme: “Emerging Open Distance and eLearning (ODeL) Technologies to promote inclusive, Quality and Equitable Education”.
During an interactive meeting with the Vice Chancellor, the Rector acknowledged Makerere University’s zeal to increase access to flexible quality education among communities in Uganda. He recognised the strong partnership between Makerere University and University of Agder that has enabled the two institutions to build capacity on Open Distance and eLearning and widen people’s knowledge on usage of ICT tools for learning purposes.
“I appreciate the efforts of Makerere University to accept the open education model and lifelong learning. This is the area where higher institutions of learning should heavily focus on, especially at this point when the education system is moving towards student centred pedagogies,” he said.
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe was happy to receive the delegates in his office. In a special way, he welcomed the Rector of University of Agder, Norway Prof. Frank Reichert, to Makerere University the Hub of research and innovations.
He highly commended the positive results of the Distance Education Leapfrogging project (DELP) saying that, the Project has enabled Makerere University to meet its educational goals and impact for change. “The reason why Makerere University is existing is the service it is rendering to the community. We teach, impact and change communities and ODeL as enabled us do so. Through Open Distance and eLearning, we have been able to reach out to a number of people.” he said.
Prof. Nawangwe thanked the Royal Kingdom of Norway for its continued support to Makerere University specifically in areas of education and skills development. In the same spirit, he appreciated Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD) through the Norwegian Programme for Capacity Development in Higher Education and Research for Development (NORHED) for strengthening education programmes in Norway and Uganda.
Prior to the DELC 2018 International Conference, the team from University of Agder and some members from the College of Education and External Studies under the Distance Education leapfrogging project (DELP) are expected to give a public lecture at Makerere University Lira Centre. According to the Project Coordinator who is also the Deputy Principal of College of Education and External Studies Dr. Paul Birevu Muyinda, this is the first Public lecture that will engage Makerere University with the community outside the University premises.
“We are distance education providers. Therefore our activities are supposed to be outside the walls of the institution. We connect and engage with people in their respective communities. That is why this public lecture will be organised at one of Makerere University Centres in Lira. ,” he said.
Makerere University and the University of Agder- Norway is implementing the Distance Education leapfrogging project (DELP). The Project is funded by NORAD through the Norwegian Programme for Capacity Development in Higher education and Research for Development (NORHED).
Initiated in 2013, DELP is a five years project aiming at increasing access to flexible quality education at Makerere University by increasing capacity to integrate ICTs into pedagogical processes through leapfrogging the current 1st generation distance education provision into 4th and 5th generation distance education provisions.
Some of the achievements under DELP so far include:
Development of the first ever online/blended learning undergraduate and master’s programmes, namely: the Bachelor of Youth Development Work (BYDW) and Masters in Instructional Design and Technology (MIDT) programmes respectively. All online materials for use in these programmes have been developed and ‘onlinised’.
DELP is supporting three (3) staff from the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning to pursue PhD studies at University of Agder and University of Nairobi DELP has supported several staff to present research papers at international conferences and publish in referred journals.
DELP has procured all the necessary ICTs needed in enabling production of and access to resources for online distance education. These include, among others: 2 servers, 98 desktop computers, 4 laptops, 4 LCD projectors, 2 iPads, 1 mobile phones, 7 Internet modems, 4 interactive smart boards, 2 video cameras, 1 document camera, 1 heavy duty multi-purpose printer, 2 video conferencing facilities, 2 scanners, 2 light duty printers, 2 heavy duty printers and bandwidth support for Lira.
The Project has seen the refurbishment of spaces for hosting modern ICTs for online distance education. Nsubuga block, the home of the newly formed Institute of Open, Distance and eLearning (formerly, Department of Open and Distance Learning) has been refurbished and the ICT laboratory therein expanded to host over 100 computers and their accessories.
The former AVU Viewing Room, Control Room and Studio have been revamped to host video conferencing facilities. Equipment for video conferencing.
The CEES Lira Center is being remodelled to house a modern computer laboratory (1), video conferencing facilities (1), resource centre (1), boardroom (1) lecture room (1) and offices for centre coordinator and ICT staff.
DELP is supporting short and medium term skills improvement training programmes. Staff have received training/continue to receive training in use of learning management system for teaching and learning, ODeL materials development, ODeL facilitation, using video conferencing in teaching and maintenance of video conferencing facilities.
The Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi on Thursday 29th May, 2025 held a press conference to update members of the Media on the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) Medical Drone Programme, and the Kampala Status Summary 2023 on Road Safety Risk Factors, conducted under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety, a collaborative effort between the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and the Trauma, Injury, and Disability (TRIAD) Unit at Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH). Also presented were updates on; Digital Certification of Academic Transcripts, Digital Supervision of Graduate Students, Inclusive e-Learning and Smart Classrooms, and Launch of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Laboratory at the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS).
The event held in the Senior Common Room, Main Building, was on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe presided over by the Acting (Ag.) DVC AA and substantive Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. Presentations were made by Executive Director of the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Dr. Andrew Kambugu and Head of the Trauma, Injuries, and Disability (TRIAD) Unit, Dr. Fredrick Oporia. Dr. Jimmy Osuret and Dr. Esther Bayiga from TRIAD supplemented Dr. Oporia’s presentation. In attendance were; the Director for ICT Support (DICTS)-Mr. Samuel Mugabi, Deputy Chief – Public Relations-Ms. Betty Kyakuwa, Deputy Chief Security Officer-Mr. Musa Mulindwa and other university officials.
The proceedings of the Press Conference follow below;
Vice Chancellors’ Press Statement
Good morning colleagues, members of the press,
It is my pleasure to welcome you to this important media briefing, where we share compelling findings from two groundbreaking studies that reflect Makerere University‘s ongoing commitment to impactful research, innovation, and community transformation.
The first is a pioneering initiative led by the Infectious Diseases Institute—the IDI Medical Drone Programme. This project explores the use of drone technology to deliver lifesaving HIV medications and test samples to hard-to-reach populations, particularly in Kalangala District and the West Nile region. The study demonstrates how drones can overcome logistical barriers, reduce costs, and enhance access to critical healthcare in some of Uganda’s most underserved communities.
The second study is the Kampala Status Summary 2023 on Road Safety Risk Factors, conducted under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety. This collaborative effort between the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and our Trauma, Injury, and Disability Unit here at Makerere University presents over two years of data on vehicle speed and helmet use in Kampala. It provides vital insights into the human behaviours and systemic gaps contributing to road traffic injuries and fatalities—particularly among vulnerable road users. The study also offers evidence-based recommendations for enforcement, planning, and public health messaging aimed at making Kampala’s roads safer for all.
We are proud to support this kind of research that not only advances knowledge but also drives tangible improvements in public health and safety.
Before I invite the researchers to present their findings, allow me to briefly highlight some transformative developments in the areas of academic registry and ICT advancement here at Makerere University:
Digital Certification of Academic Transcripts:
Alumni can now certify their transcripts digitally through the Makerere Academic Records System (Mak-ARS https://makars.mak.ac.ug/), eliminating the need for physical visits. This user-friendly platform allows access from anywhere in the world, supported by comprehensive video tutorials and public communications.
Digital Supervision of Graduate Students
We have introduced the Research Information Management System (Mak-RIMS), piloted at the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, to streamline the supervision of Master’s and PhD research. This initiative enhances accountability, timely feedback, and is now being rolled out university-wide to improve graduation rates.
Inclusive eLearning and Smart Classrooms
Through support from development partners and the Government of Uganda, we are establishing multimedia studios and smart classrooms across our colleges. These state-of-the-art facilities are designed to produce professional, accessible learning content, including tools tailored for students with visual and auditory disabilities. This aligns with our goal of equitable, globally competitive education.
Launch of the AI Laboratory at CoCIS:
The newly launched Artificial Intelligence Laboratory will spearhead the development of AI-enabled solutions tailored to Uganda’s socio-economic needs, including localized assistive eLearning tools and context-sensitive curriculum development.
These initiatives are part of our broader vision to transform Makerere University into a research-led, inclusive, and globally relevant institution.
The Senior Program Director, Higher Education and Research in Africa, International Program, Carnegie Corporation of New York, Prof. Omotade Akin Aina on 23rd May 2025 visited Makerere University during his short trip to Kampala. Prof. Aina was received on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe by Prof. Tony Oyana, Principal of the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS).
During his visit, Prof. Aina met with the Project Implementation Committee, representatives from the Consolidating Early Career Academics Programme (CECAP) phase I Fellowship Cohort, and current Fellows of phase II. The meeting discussed the progress of CECAP II, which focuses on fostering academic development and research among early-career academics.
Left to Ritght: Dr. Jesca Nakavuma and Prof. Julius Kikooma alongside Prof. Omotade Akin Aina during the meeting.
CECAP II is being implemented by Makerere University in collaboration with four other Ugandan public universities, including; Busitema University, Gulu University, Kyambogo University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology. Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza, the Project Principal Investigator was represented at the meeting by the Director of Graduate Training, Prof. Julius Kikooma.
The Directorate of Graduate Training at Makerere University has equipped several Senior ranking lecturers with expert knowledge in a Training of Trainers’ workshop on “Philosophy of Methods”.
In his remarks at the opening of a 3-day training workshop at Level4 Conference Hall – Senate Building, the Director of Graduate Training Prof. Julius Kikooma said, “The teaching of Philosophy of Methods gives all participants the fundamentals to extend knowledge to other learners, hence its importance in upholding the Makerere University values.”
Kikooma urged and challenged the participants to also attend and actively participate in the follow up of learners’ training of students, stating that the PhD students need support as the directorate continues to coordinate the curriculum of PhD by-research that was approved by the senate recently.
“To holistically implement the senate approved PhD curriculum, we are coordinating capacity building trainings of all stake holders in a structured approach with the different units of the University. Many more trainings including Training of Trainers in advanced research methods course are on the way.”
He further urged the participants to be intentional in their teaching profession and in whatever they were doing, adding “Apart from focusing on practices as teachers and researchers, we can engage in wider philosophical debates in our research areas so that we are relevant in the society and in the empowerment of PhD research students.”
The participants for the Philosophy of Methods training were from College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Education and External Studies, Makerere University Business School among others.
During the same training, Dr. Dickson Kanakulya stressed the need to train senior lecturers in the Philosophy of Methods, saying, “The biggest connection is that societal problems require concrete research to find solutions. Our challenge in Africa is that we employ a short barrow approach to find solutions to problems. This cannot work. We need consistent researchers to solve problems. Lasting solutions to societal issues can only be got through training such as Philosophy of Methods, where researchers come up with new models for societal solutions.”
Prof. Julius Kikooma pose for a photo with participants and facilitators.
Dr. Kanakulya said that Makerere University remains the biggest research University in Africa and philosophy of Methods helps to come up with good research tools that produce good research outputs. “Research has shown that the higher the number of PhD researchers in any given country, the higher the levels of development of that country e.g. the USA, China etc., adding that research is not limited to only medicinal or agricultural related issues.”
He said philosophy of methods, encourages philosophical creativity in research, “It is meant to bring out philosophical generation of concepts, theories and ideas. It is meant to encourage students to question the existing philosophical assumptions and status quo in a given field of knowledge such that new philosophical concepts are created.”
For successful rollout of government programs like the National Development Plan 4, Dr. Kanakulya said that Philosophy of Methods training needs to be integrated into such systems. “Philosophy of Methods focuses on ethical thinking aspects. For example, for a better rollout of the Parish Development Model, we need implementers to be ethical.” He added.
Prof. Sulait Tumwiine, the associate Dean of Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research at MUBS said, “This is a discussion where new ideas are shared to guide and gauge applicability in the current knowledge diversity coupled with lots of technological development including Artificial Intelligence and Chat GPT.”
He added, “As professors of Universities, we need to understand how we leverage on what comes up so that it does not take our space, but also appreciate how we can support growth of knowledge. The Philosophy of Methods training is the answer.”
Dr. Jim Spire Ssentongo highlighted that Philosophy uses more of the critical mind than Science. He added that philosophy is more of speculation of the mind.
“Sustainability of philosophy Education encourages us to continue training. Philosophy being the oldest discipline retained special status in the academia as a pinnacle of pursuit of knowledge. All disciplines have major elements of philosophy citing examples in the philosophy of Mathematics and Physics.
Dr. Spire added, “If you do not understand philosophy, you cannot deeply investigate anything because philosophy is the reality of understanding everything. Philosophy is the basis of understanding what knowledge is and how it is arrived at.”
Also participating in the workshop was Prof. Joseph Ntaayi from MUBS, in his remarks he said PhD students need the philosophy of methods training to understand how to best to create knowledge. He added that ontological and epistemological questions that lead to good research design methods can only be answered by this training.
Dr. Robert Kakuru, a Lecturer in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences said that the Philosophy of Methods training is needed by every graduate student as well as supervisors to critically determine the choice of methods to use in academic research. For example, “If one wants to use a questionnaire as an interview approach, one should understand, why that approach and yet without this training, the why cannot be answered.” He added.