The facility is to host the First National Agricultural Library in the country
Mak to host the best Biotechnology, Animal, Soil and Crop science laboratories
Makerere University College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) has received the state-of-the-art Graduate Training and Research Laboratory facility from the contractor under the African Development Bank (AfDB)-HEST project. The single-storied facility estimated to have cost US$1.2million houses research laboratories, a library, offices, training rooms and other amenities.
The facility was received by the Principal CAES Prof. Bernard Bashaasha accompanied by the Ag. Director Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute (MUARIK) Dr. Alice Turinawe, Farm Manager, Mr. Chrysostom Tweyambe and other university staff on Monday, 11th February 2019.
The handover was attended by officials from Arch Designs Ltd. represented by Eng. Florence Lunyoro and Architect Dickson Wetala. The ceremony was also witnessed by officials from Excel Construction Company Ltd. including Mr. Mayale Musitafa (Electrician), Ms. Turyasingula Dorcas (Electrician) and Mr. Bayi David (Administrator).
Speaking on behalf of the Project Manager, Eng. Florence Lunyoro said they were handing over the initial facility that took roughly 12 months from start to completion. The site at MUARIK was handed over to Excel Construction Company Ltd on 10th August, 2017.
“It has four laboratories, three training rooms, offices and scenery facilities. The structure is designed such that you can have extensions done for future use. It has its own sewerage treatment plant and refuse collection from waste water,” Lunyoro explained.
Lunyoro hailed the funders and Makerere University for being supportive saying, the project has been a good one without challenges. She expressed willingness to work with the university on other projects.
“I hope you will enjoy the facility. As of now the contractor is going to clean up the facility. As per our contract and scope of works, everything is ready to be used by the university. It has only two pending components, furnishing for equipment and loose furniture to be taken care of by the university”. She added.
The Principal CAES Prof. Bernard Bashaasha appreciated the facility.
“The construction works were done to the standard required. We have inspected the labs, lecture rooms, the toilets and other facilities and they are up to standard. I think the contractor did a good job,” the Principal noted.
He appreciated that the furnishings had delayed but added that the college would provide temporary facilities so that graduate students start having classes in the structure.
“I promise to maintain it as much as possible. We have already hired a firm to ensure that the facility is not vandalized and we plan to procure cleaning services to guarantee that the facility is kept to the standard for staff and students”, Prof. Bashaasha pledged.
Bashaasha also appreciated the library space, which he said the college would furnish.
“We intend to make it the first National Agricultural Library in the country by seeking support from both NARO and Makerere University.”
The Principal also said the structure has good facilities to anchor the university’s research and outreach.
“We have Biotechnology, Animal science, Soil science and Crop science laboratories and once we get the lab equipment that we need to get them fully functional, they will be some of the best laboratories in the country. This will go a long way in strengthening our research capacity and capability to contribute to the national goals of Agriculture”, He added.
The Principal thanked the Government of Uganda and the Ministry of Education and Sports for financing the project. He also extended his appreciation to the Vice Chancellor and the entire Makerere University Management team of for the support, pledging to put the facility to good use.
About the AfDB-HEST project
Makerere University was among Uganda’s Public Universities and the biggest beneficiary of the African Development Bank (AfDB)-HEST 5 year (2013-2018) government-secured loan. US$29.2 million was allocated to Makerere University.
The project was approved in 2013 with the coordinating Unit in the Ministry of Education and Sports. The Ministry’s mode of operation was that there must be one contractor to handle all constructions in one institution.
Excel Construction Company Ltd. signed a contract on 16th December, 2015 to handle constructions at Makerere University effective 1st February, 2016. They had an 18-month contract to complete construction of all the structures in the university.
The contractor phased the construction for easier management of the resources and started the civil works with the Central Teaching Facilities 1 and 2 next at the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS0 and the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) respectively.
The other project component was the renovation of nine laboratories (one in each college) and equiping lecture rooms and laboratories with modern instruction facilities. Two CAES laboratories (Biotechnology and East lab) were renovated in the second phase (July-December, 2016).
The rehabilitation of the MUARIK Dairy Unit was fronted as a university project. The idea was that MUAIRIK Dairy Value Chain will generate money for the University and incubate students. The unit was handed over on 22nd April 2016. The rehabilitation works for the Milking parlour, and Feed mill commenced in May 2016 and the facilities were made available for full operation in December 2016.
And finally, the initial building at MUARIK comprising Graduate Training and Research Laboratories has been handed over to the university.
Report compiled by:
Jane Anyango
Principal Communication Officer, CAES
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.
Mak CEES and IRC partnership meeting in progress
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.”
[L-R] Dr. David Kabugo, Deputy Director (MITER), Mr. Vincent Wanyama (IRC), Prof. Anthony Mugagga (Principal, MakCEES), Mr. Elijah Okeyo( Country Director-IRC), Ms. Janet Nambuya (IRC), Mr. Richard Omasette (IRC) and Ms. Ritah Namisango, PCO (MakCEES)
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.
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.
A cross-section of scholar-alumni, listening attentively during the event.
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.
Mr. John Osuna, speaking on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, at the event.
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.
A cross-section of the alumni making their pledges towards the scholars give back project.
“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.
Ms. Agnes Katumba, the Director, Katumba Estates Ltd handing over part of her pledge towards the Scholars Giveback project.
“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.
The Representative from DFCU making the pledge to support Scholars Giveback project on behalf of the Bank.
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.
Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Scholar-alumna addressing fellow Scholars and alumni at the event.
“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.
Some of the Scholars praying for their raffle draw tickets to win.
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.
The winner of the grand draw walked away with a flat screen TV.
Carol Kasujja and Bernard Buteera form the communications team for the Scholars Programme at Makerere University.
Dear Students; Class of 2025/2026 I am very delighted to welcome you to Makerere University. You are joining a Premier University and I hope you all are excited to start your new academic journey. We would like to first congratulate all of you for successfully overcoming the many challenges you have all faced, from completing high school to choosing a university and a study program and the extensive delays in the admission process you experienced.
As you are about to begin one of the most exciting times in your life, you should acknowledge and appreciate your efforts and achievements so far. I am aware that as a fresher, you are filled with hope and ambition, and I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the road that has brought you here. I know that you have worked hard and overcome many obstacles to reach this point. So, take a moment to savor this achievement and be proud of yourselves.
Now, as you step into the next phase of your lives, I want to remind you that this is a time of growth and exploration. You will face new challenges, make new friends, and gain experiences that will shape you into the person you will become. This is the time to embrace new opportunities, learn from your mistakes, and never stop growing.
I also want to emphasise the importance of hard work, determination, and resilience. These are the qualities that will help you overcome any obstacle and succeed in your endeavors. Remember to keep your focus on your goals and work towards them with determination. I encourage you to approach your studies with a growth mindset. This means that you believe that your abilities can be developed through hard work and perseverance. Remember that failure is not the end, but rather an opportunity to learn and grow.
Professor Buyinza Mukadasi (PhD) Academic Registrar