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Mak-MKU Expand Joint Collaboration to Institutional Level

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Makerere University and Mount Kenya University (MKU) on Monday, 14th January 2019 officially expanded their collaboration to institutional level following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Signed on behalf of Mak by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and on behalf of MKU by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Stanley Waudo, the MoU is a follow-up of an earlier one signed on 19th September 2017 between the two institutions’ Colleges of Health Sciences. Mak’s College of Education and External Studies (CEES) has also been collaborating with MKU’s School of Education since 2017.

 

Welcoming the delegation to Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe commended MKU and colleagues in Makerere for all the progress made since the initial agreement was signed at college level.

“Collaboration is the way to go. We should emulate Universities in the US and Europe which are reaping a lot from grants through joint applications. I therefore encourage all colleagues engaged in partnerships with Mount Kenya University to jointly apply for grants. This way, we shall be able to attract bigger funding for our research activities” remarked Prof. Nawangwe.

Accompanied by his Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic and Research Affairs, Dr. Bibianne Waiganjo and Director of Quality Assurance, Linkages and Partnerships, Prof. Mwangi Peter Wanderi, Prof. Waudo further emphasised the need for both institutions to focus on graduate students if they are to improve their research output.

“As Professors, we are training these students to take over from us. We should teach them how to write research grants” said Prof. Waudo in reference to his own training at Iowa State University where he earned his Masters and PhD in plant pathology. “At Masters level, first year students are paired with colleagues in second year for mentorship and review of theses so that professors receive a refined document. The is the same case at PhD level” he added.

The Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (R) hands over a souvenir Mak Mug to MKU's Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic and Research Affairs, Dr. Bibianne Waiganjo (L) during the MoU signing

Contributing to the day’s discussion, the Acting Director, Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD), Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine reiterated Makerere’s regional leadership in institutionalising gender in University functions. In 2001, the Gender Mainstreaming Programme was initiated under the Department of the Academic Registrar and has in the last ten years transitioned from the Gender Mainstreaming Division to the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate.

“It is good to learn that Mount Kenya University has adopted a Gender policy. However, from our experience, you need to develop and implementation framework in order to effectively implement the policy” advised Dr. Mugisha.
 
In his remarks, the Director, Directorate Research and Graduate Training (DRGT), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi shared with the visiting delegation Makerere’s current drive to be a research-intensive university.

“The Directorate of Research and Graduate Training coordinates the institution research efforts at college and project levels. We are reaping big from international collaborations with each of the ten colleges and Principal Investigators (PIs) attracting research grants for the various projects” remarked Prof. Buyinza.

He further shared the University’s drive to improve graduate training as a way of boosting research output. “Our biggest pillar in research is graduate students. We are implementing the Doctoral Committee system to improve our throughput and hold annual Doctoral Conventions for accountability and to share progress on various research findings.”

The Principal, College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Prof. Fred Masagazi Masaazi was all praises for the Mak-MKU collaboration which has played witness to joint supervision of education students on school practice by staff from both institutions.

The Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (R) hands over a souvenir Mak Necktie to MKU's Director of Quality Assurance, Linkages and Partnerships, Prof. Mwangi Peter Wanderi (L) during the MoU signing

“At the end of the visits, we generate reports which have been very good in informing us on the way forward. We are now jointly developing multidisciplinary research projects” added the Principal.

The College of Health Sciences (CHS) has since signing the MoU in September 2017 made several strides in joint research projects. The Principal CHS, Prof. Charles Ibingira shared that the two institutions were utilising the US$100,000 joint research grant forge South-South research partnerships.

“We have a model where applicants from the two institutions must pair up in order to apply for grants and Prof. Harriet Mayanja-Kizza is in charge of this. So far, we have over five teams working together that have already embarked on research. We shall soon produce joint publications” remarked Prof. Ibingira.

“Collaboration is a great endeavour that all contemporary universities should look forward to” remarked the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Dr. Umar Kakumba as he gave the concluding remarks.

Makerere has invested heavily in staff development and I can assure you that collaboration with this University in terms of staff exchange cannot lack in any discipline. We have approximately 800 staff with PhDs in various disciplines” said Dr. Kakumba.

He however pointed out that whereas staff exchange was thriving, student exchange was still lacking and needed to be promoted. “Our proximity to each other will grant new learning experiences to our students and give them good exposure to our different learning environments” added the DVCAA.

Earlier, Prof. Mwangi had made a presentation on MKU during which he shared his institution’s intention to benchmark Mak’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-security (CoVAB). He also highlighted cost-cutting measures undertaken by MKU and CEES that involved teams meeting at the border town of Busia for one week in order to undertake joint activities, instead of travelling all the way to either institution’s campuses.

The two parties thereafter signed the MoU and exchanged institutional souvenir items. The MKU will during their visit to Makerere University tour the Main Library, visit the CHS Campus in Mulago and attend the 69th Graduation Ceremony.

Article by Public Relations Office

 

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Strengthening Partnerships: Makerere University Welcomes Delegation from Western University, Ontario, Canada

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The Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) and UWO President-Dr. Alan Shepard (3rd Left) show off the signed MoU as Left to Right: UWO's Dr. Opiyo Oloya and Dr. Lily Cho as well as University Secretary-Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, UWO's Dr. John Yoo and Head of Advancement-Mr. Awel Uwihanganye witness on 21st March 2024. Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Carol Kainomugisha

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the University Management, welcomed a delegation from Western University, Ontario, Canada (UWO), marking an important milestone in the strengthening of international partnerships and collaborations. The week-long visit, characterized by insightful discussions and exchanges with various colleges, departments and units of the University, highlighted various areas of mutual interest and potential collaboration between the two esteemed institutions.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (2nd Right) and Dr. Alan Shepard (2nd Left) sign the MoU as Mr. Yusuf Kiranda (Left) and Dr. Lily Cho (Right) witness. 21st March 2023, Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (2nd Right) and Dr. Alan Shepard (2nd Left) sign the MoU as Mr. Yusuf Kiranda (Left) and Dr. Lily Cho (Right) witness.

The delegation was led by President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Alan Shepard and accompanied by Vice-Provost and Associate Vice-President, Dr. Lily Cho, the Associate Vice-President, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, Dr. Opiyo Oloya and the Dean, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Dr. John Yoo.

The visit culminated with the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which will most certainly strengthen the already existing relationship between Makerere University and Western University.

The meeting between Makerere University and Western University commenced with the University Management which discussed collaborative opportunities, particularly in engineering, design, and technology, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Mr. Opio Oloya addressed issues of Inclusivity and diversity in academia, focusing on integrating indigenous knowledge, combating global anti-blackness, and promoting social integration within university communities.

Members of the University Management and the delegation from Western University, Ontario, Canada pose for a group photo at the Makerere@100 Monument. 18th March 2024, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Members of the University Management and the delegation from Western University, Ontario, Canada pose for a group photo at the Makerere@100 Monument.

Makerere‘s academic excellence and capacity-building initiatives were showcased, with plans to expand graduate training opportunities and enhance capacity through student and faculty exchanges.

 The meeting concluded with a shared vision for future collaborations, including research projects, academic programs, and student exchanges, reaffirming the commitment to fostering excellence and addressing global challenges through collaborative efforts.

Fostering Global Academic Partnerships: Western University meets Makerere University Colleges and Units.

In a meeting at the School of Law, led by the Principal, Associate Prof. Ronald Naluwairo, the delegation held lengthy deliberations to explore avenues for academic collaboration, embodying the power of international partnerships in academia.

Central to the dialogue was Western University’s interest in global engagement, particularly in internationalization, aligning with Makerere‘s ethos of interdisciplinary collaboration. The meeting highlighted joint research opportunities, staff, and student mobility programs, showcasing a commitment to academic excellence and the potential for cross-cultural learning and growth.

The Principal-Associate Prof. Ronald Naluwairo (5th Left), Deputy Principal-Dr. Zahara Nampewo (3rd Left), Principal CHUSS-Associate Prof. Josephine Ahikire (3rd Right), Head PAF-Dr. Benon Kigozi with other officials and the UWO delegation at the School of Law. 19th March 2024, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Principal-Associate Prof. Ronald Naluwairo (5th Left), Deputy Principal-Dr. Zahara Nampewo (3rd Left), Principal CHUSS-Associate Prof. Josephine Ahikire (3rd Right), Head PAF-Dr. Benon Kigozi (Right) with other officials and the UWO delegation at the School of Law.

During the meeting between the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) and Western University, the Executive Director Dr. Andrew Kambugu outlined IDI’s evolution from an academic venture to a multifaceted institution driving service delivery, research, and capacity building in Africa.

Highlighting existing partnerships, particularly in data management with the Faculty of Medicine at Western University, President Alan Shepard underscored the tangible outcomes of cross-border collaboration, with data-driven research initiatives making significant contributions to healthcare and public health interventions. Future collaboration prospects, including exchange programs, joint initiatives, and equipment donations, emphasized a shared commitment to innovative approaches and collaborative problem-solving to address pressing challenges in Africa.

Dr. Andrew Kambugu (4th Left) with other officials and the UWO Delegation during their visit to IDI. 19th March 2024, Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Andrew Kambugu (4th Left) with other officials and the UWO Delegation during their visit to IDI.

Celebrating Collaboration: Farewell Luncheon Honoring Western University Delegation

A farewell luncheon, hosted by Mrs. Lorna Magara, the Chairperson, Makerere University Council, marked the poignant conclusion of the exchange visit with Western University, Ontario, Canada, celebrating the enduring spirit of collaboration and friendship between the two institutions.

Mrs. Lorna Magara (Left) shakes hands with Dr. Opiyo Oloya as Dr. Alan Shepard (Rear Right) and other officials interact. 21st March 2024, Golden Tulip Hotel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Lorna Magara (Left) shakes hands with Dr. Opiyo Oloya as Dr. Alan Shepard (Rear Right) and other officials interact.

 As farewells were exchanged, participants left with cherished memories and a renewed commitment to nurturing the partnership for future endeavors, underscoring the power of collaboration to transcend boundaries and create opportunities for growth and learning.

As Western University and Makerere University look ahead, the memories of the week-long strategic visit will serve as a beacon of inspiration, guiding their continued efforts to collaborate, learn, and grow together.

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CTCA Request For Expression of Interest: Finance and Accounts Assistant

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CTCA is seeking the services of a Finance and Accounts Assistant whose overall responsibility will be to provide finance and administrative support to ensure efficient operation of the office. Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA), School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Institution: Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA)
Project Title: Enhance Tobacco Control Institutional Capacity in Africa
Expression of Interest Number: CTCA/EOI/G339/2024

1. Introduction:

The Centre has received funding from the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) for the
2024-2026) to implement a project on institutional development. The project investments are
geared towards sustaining human resource capacity and knowledge generation to reduce use of all forms of tobacco products in Africa.

Specifically, the project aims to:

  1. Enhance training opportunities for African governments and relevant actors in tobacco
    control in the continent.
  2. Increase access to knowledge for guiding tobacco use prevention and control in Africa.
  3. Reinforce the institutional development of CTCA for an optimal performance of its
    functions and processes.

Therefore, CTCA is seeking the services of a Finance and Accounts Assistant whose overall responsibility will be to provide finance and administrative support to ensure efficient operation of the office. The Assistant will support management and other employees on a variety of tasks related to administration, finance, procurement, and communication.

2. Scope of Work

The specific duties include:

  1. Providing support to the accounting and procurement functions through preparing journals and loading payments for review by the budget and finance officer for authorization
  2. Maintain supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt of supplies.
  3. Administer and manage logistics and contracts for services with service providers such as travel agents, hotels, translations and interpretation agencies, office supplies
  4. Maintaining a clean electronic and manual filing system.
  5. Handling communications – Receiving, storing, retrieving, dispatching, organizing documents and other correspondence of the Centre.
  6. Provide secretarial services to CTCA technical meetings.
  7. Assist in the preparation of regularly scheduled reports.
  8. Assist in logistics preparations for meetings, workshops, and missions.
  9. Oversee and supervise the work of junior staff.
  10. Maintain up-to-date employee records.
  11. Any other duties as may be assigned.

See Downloads for detailed advert.

Application deadline: Not later than 17:00 hours on 8th April, 2024.

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CTCA Request For Expression of Interest: Communications Expert

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CTCA is seeking the services of a communications expert to to raise the visbility of the Centre and the knowledge translation of the programmatic outputs. Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA), School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Institution: Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA)
Project Title: Enhance Tobacco Control Institutional Capacity in Africa
Expression of Interest Number: CTCA/EOI/G339/2024

1. Introduction:

The Centre has received funding from the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) for the
2024-2026) to implement a project on institutional development. The project investments are
geared towards sustaining human resource capacity and knowledge generation to reduce use of all forms of tobacco products in Africa.

Specifically, the project aims to:

  1. Enhance training opportunities for African governments and relevant actors in tobacco
    control in the continent.
  2. Increase access to knowledge for guiding tobacco use prevention and control in Africa.
  3. Reinforce the institutional development of CTCA for an optimal performance of its
    functions and processes.

Therefore, CTCA is seeking the services of a communications expert to to raise the visibility of
the Centre and the knowledge translation of the programmatic outputs. The expert will be
engaged on a retainer basis.

2. Scope of Work

The objective of the assignment is to disseminate CTCA work, institutional branding, maintain
the website alive and drum the second Africa conference on tobacco control and development.

  1. Coordinate and oversee the development of the Alternative Livelihoods documentary in Zambia and its dissemination
  2. Develop communication/branding materials such as brochures, banners, policy briefs, newsletter articles, press releases etc
  3. Review and provide updates for the CTCA website
  4. Update CTCA online platforms (twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn) on a regular basis through regular monitoring, positing and content development
  5. Provide technical support to ensure that the second Africa Conference on Tobacco Control and Development is organized and help successfully

See Downloads for detailed advert

Application deadline: Not later than 17:00 hours on 8th April, 2024.

View on CTCA

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