General
Committee on Gender Equity presents the report to Mak staff and students for validation
On 4th December 2018, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe constituted a five Member Select Committee on Gender Equity (SCGE) to review the Makerere University gender mainstreaming policies and practices together with their effectiveness across all units. Chaired by Dr. Rhoda Wanyenze, the Dean School of Public Health the Committee was also responsible for;
- Formulating a gender Equality standard/matrix with the implementation plan applicable across all units so as to actively encourage women’s full and equal participation in university life
- Hold consultative meetings with in the University for review on policy and practice;
- Provide feedback and recommendation to management on gender equity implications of suggested polies, plans and services;
- Formulate a draft policy document with strategic guidelines that will be recommended to Makerere University Council for approval.
Members of the Committee included; Associate Professor Consolata Kabonesa, Dr. Kizito Maria, Dr. Zahara Nampewo. Dr. Gilbert Gumoshabe, Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine and the Secretariat; Ms. Frances Nyachwo, Ms. Suzan Mbabazi, and Mr. Eric Tumwesigye.
On 18th May 2018, the Select Committee on Gender Equity presented its report to Administrative and Academic staff and students for validation. The report provided preliminary findings of the Committee on Gender Equity at Makerere University, cited the strengths and gaps in some of the policies that govern the institution and suggested recommendations.
In a presentation she made on the Review of Gender Equity and Participation of Women across various Levels in Makerere University, Professor Rhoda Wanyenze, said that although there is a fair female representation in the lower ranks of academic and non-teaching units, the representation of women at high levels is minimal. The report also indicates a meagre participation of women in the University activities across all units.
This was attributed to the various challenges that women face among which are societal, biological construction of gender, and attitude stood out.
“The biological roles such as motherhood has left women with no option. The society has built women and men differently. women are supposed to be simple, soft and submissive while men are supposed to be aggressive and radical. The society has built a man to rule and head hence dominating the leadership role. This has greatly impacted the leadership development of women in communities,” she said.
According to Professor Rhoda Wanyenze, there are critical competencies that the University Leadership should consider when employing and promoting all categories of its staff.
“Despite the many other traits such as the organization awareness, self-orientation, achievement orientation, trustworthiness, team work and collaboration, change catalyst, and crisis management among others that women exhibit, they are still, gaged on self-confidence, accurate self-assessment, emotional control and adaptability,” she said.
“We do not need any additional points for women but rather we have to redefine the criteria by broadening it to include the other competences because women are gifted people with critical leadership competences. When women are brought on board, they are not being helped, but it is the institution being helped the” she added.
Dr. Rhoda Wanyenze informed staff and students that the Makerere University Gender Equity Policy is fairly comprehensive but lacking in explicit targets and interventions to advance gender equity. The Policy has limited strategic information and tracking of progress.
“To narrow down the current existing Gender Equity gap, there is need for increasing the proportion of women at Makererere University from 29% to 40% over the next 10 years, especially in the Units with the worst ratios. The University should also consider increasing the representation of women at the highest academic ranks (Professor and Associate Professor) from 19% to 40%; in administrative positions; Principals and Deans, from 10% to at least 30% and apply the same percentage to the Top 3 positions in the University over the next 10 years, said Dr. Zahara Nampewo- Member of the Select Committee on Gender Equity.
In its recommendations, the Select Committee on Gender Equity proposed the review of the respective existing policies and adjustment of the systems/structures that support Gender Equity with in Makerere University.
The Committee suggested a thorough revision of the existing Makerere University Gender Equity Policy to include the targets and implementations arrangements.
According to the report, there is need to align the University policies such as the Human Resource Policy to reflect gender equity aspects.
The University should revise its advertisement package for jobs, courses and review the recruitment processes, and promotions.
Other recommendations included;
- Institute gender equitable staff development and mentorship across all Units including GMD
- Institute gender equitable performance incentives and recognition for all categories of staff
- Strengthen and fully document recruitment procedures for administrative positions to enhance objectivity, transparency and confidence among prospective candidates
- Include gender equity targets in key documents such as the University Strategic Plan for 2020-2030
- Strengthen M&E: Development/adaptation of a gender mainstreaming scorecard
- Track progress overall and across Units and periodically highlight progress in key University documents: annual report, mention at events etc.
- Track staff entry, retention and attrition by gender
- Develop and implement a gender focused research agenda
- Enhance funding of the GMD to directly manage allocated funds
- Include gender officer/s to coordinate gender mainstreaming activities across Units
- Strengthen Monitoring and Evaluation Development/adaptation of a gender mainstreaming scorecard
- Track progress overall and across Units and periodically highlight progress in key University documents: annual report, mention at events etc.
- Track staff entry, retention and attrition by gender
- Develop and implement a gender focused research agenda
- Operationalize the GMD staff structure in order to
- Recruit additional Gender Officers to coordinate gender mainstreaming activities across all University Units
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, revealed the University’s move to improve the working environment for its female staff. Prof. Nawangwe also said that Makerere University is encouraging women to engage in science based (STEM) disciplines, a space that has for long been dominated by men at Makerere University.
“We are attracting female staff and students to science based disciplines (STEM). we are sensitizing female students on the benefits and importance of pursuing science based subjects. In the same spirit we are supporting our female staff who are teaching and carrying out research in sciences. Makerere University is recognizing the tremendous role of women in this world. We have nurtured some of the prominent and renowned ladies across all sectors of development,” he remarked.
He commended the great work done by the Committee and appreciated the support from the University Management to ensure that the job is thoroughly done.
The Director of Gender Mainstreaming Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine thanked Management, staff, students and other stakeholders for supporting the Committee to ensure that it finalizes its work on time. She acknowledged the tremendous role of respondents during the review process. “I appreciate your cooperation and the information you provided that made our work easier,” she said.
The Select Committee on Gender Equity (SCGE) will submit its final Report to the University Management 30th April, 2019, revise the Makerere University Gender Equality Policy on 30th June, 2019 finalize the implementation matrix/plan on July 31st, 2019.
Article by Nabatte Proscovia and Gender Mainstreaming Directorate
General
Makerere University commemorates 13 transformative years of partnership with Mastercard Foundation
On Friday, 27th February 2026, Makerere University proudly celebrated 13 years of a significant partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, a prestigious independent organisation headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Since its inception in 2013 with the launch of the Scholars Program-currently headed by Prof. Justine Namaalwa, this collaboration has grown significantly, expanding to include two additional initiatives: The E-learning Initiative-headed by Prof. Paul Muyinda Birevu and the Africa Climate Collaborative-headed by Prof. Gorretie Nabanoga. This long-term partnership underscores the shared commitment to fostering education, innovation, and sustainability in Uganda and across Africa.
The colourful event coincided with the 76th Graduation Ceremony, during which Makerere University honoured Ms. Reeta Roy, the Founding President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation, with an honorary Doctor of Laws.
In her commencement speech, Ms. Roy thanked Makerere University for considering a partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and for conferring upon her a prestigious honorary award.
“Mastercard Foundation is honoured to collaborate with this esteemed university, and I appreciate the recognition through this award. I am excited to be associated with Makerere University and look forward to actively embodying its values. Joining the broader community of alumni from this distinguished institution is a privilege, and I am eager to contribute to its legacy,” stated Ms. Roy.
During the reception in honour of Ms. Roy, the Chairperson of Makerere University Council, Dr. Lorna Magara, acknowledged the invaluable support from the Mastercard Foundation. She emphasised the profound impact of the Foundation’s various initiatives, particularly the scholarships for disadvantaged youth, which enable them to access higher education and opportunities that might have otherwise been beyond their reach.
“On behalf of the Makerere University Council and the broader University community, I extend our sincere gratitude to Mastercard Foundation for its commitment to collaborating with Makerere University in various endeavours, especially for providing scholarships to our underprivileged young people who would never have stepped inside a lecture room at the University.” Dr. Magara stated.
Dr. Magara, in a special way, thanked Ms. Roy for her transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to supporting young people in Africa, citing her efforts to ensure young people get their voices heard.
“As a university, our business is with young people. We are therefore committed to providing the environment and education that deliver meaningful pathways. We will provide an environment that ensures young people have a voice and agency to create meaningful change in society.” Dr. Magara pledged.
Dr. Magara further congratulated Ms. Roy on her honorary Doctor of Laws from Makerere University, noting that it is the university’s highest honour for individuals who have excelled in their careers.
“On behalf of the Makerere University community, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations on your honorary Doctor of Laws. This esteemed recognition represents the highest honour our institution can bestow on individuals who have demonstrated exceptional achievement and excellence across various facets of their career.” Dr. Magara remarked.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and the Coordinator for all Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University, expressed her appreciation for the thirteen-year collaboration between Makerere University and the Mastercard Foundation. She highlighted that the partnership had yielded significant, impactful results.
“In 2013, Makerere University partnered with the Mastercard Foundation to educate the next generation of transformative African leaders who can positively impact their lives, their communities, and the economies of Africa. The partnership has had a significant impact. I thank the University Management and the Foundation team for this visionary collaboration,” remarked Prof. Namaalwa.
Prof. Namaalwa articulated that the partnership with the Mastercard Foundation is primarily focused on empowering young people as agents of change for transformational leadership in Africa. She presented compelling statistics demonstrating the positive impact of the scholars’ program, highlighting the success of individuals who have completed their education and their subsequent professional experiences after university graduation.
“This partnership focuses on young people, aiming to create positive change in their lives. To date, the Scholars Program has graduated 974 alumni, with 48% securing formal employment, 18% starting their own businesses, 8% participating in internships, and 5% pursuing further education. Overall, 72% of Scholar alumni are actively engaged in employment or entrepreneurship,” Prof. Namaalwa stated.
The colourful event showcased a dynamic array of activities that highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit of Scholars and alumni from the Mastercard Foundation at Makerere University. Attendees enjoyed a mini-exhibition featuring innovative products from these ventures.
A video documentary illustrated the positive impact of the three Mastercard Foundation initiatives. The event also featured inspiring poetry recitations by Scholars and a lively atmosphere of music and dance, creating an engaging and memorable experience for all participants.
The high-level event was attended by senior University officials, led by the Chairperson of Council, Dr. Lorna Magara; the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe; the Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, Deputy, and the Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Finance and Administration Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta. Mr Yusuf Kiranda, the University Secretary; and Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, the Academic Registrar, Chancellor Emeritus-Prof. Ezra Suruma, former Chairperson of the Steering Committee of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program-Prof. Umar Kakumba, and the Deputy Executive Secretary, RUFORUM, and former Program Coordinator of the Scholars Program at Makerere University-Dr. Florence Nakayiwa, among many other officials graced the function.
The event was also graced by a high-level delegation from the Mastercard Foundation, led by Ms. Reeta Roy, the Founding President of the Foundation, and included the Mastercard Foundation Teams from the Country offices in Kigali, Nairobi, and Kampala; the Program partners; the Mentors, Scholars and alumni; as well as the Program staff of the three Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University.
At the end of the event, Makerere University honoured Ms. Reeta Roy with University memorabilia, including a pencil-drawn portrait, a pencil-drawn photo of the Ivory Tower, and other Ugandan crafts. Ms. Roy cut a graduation cake together with the 10 graduates of the 76th graduation ceremony from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Bernard Buteera is the Principal Public Relations Officer for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
The Board Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF), Dr. Margaret Blick Kigozi, has urged graduands in Health and Life Sciences to uphold professional ethics and serve humanity with diligence and compassion.
Her appeal came during the passing out of graduates from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-Security (CoVAB), the College of Health Sciences (CHS) and the School of Public Health (SPH) on Day Two of the 76th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University.
“Class of 2026, you are now part of the Makerere legacy. Wherever you go clinics, laboratories, farms, boardrooms, or classrooms, you carry this institution with you. Serve your patients with skill and compassion. Care for animals and communities responsibly. Question boldly and keep learning,” Dr Kigozi, said.
Delivering the commencement address, Dr. Kigozi lauded the graduates for their dedication to careers that directly impact lives and communities. She encouraged them to use their knowledge generously and exercise their power gently.
“Your education has trained you to ask better questions. Your humanity must guide the answers. Never forget that behind every chart, every case, every animal, every experiment, there is life. And life deserves care, patience, and dignity. Give every person you come in contact with care, patience and dignity,” Dr Kigozi, noted.
As the graduates embark on their professional journeys, Dr. Kigozi emphasized the importance of cultivating basic business acumen and financial literacy to ensure sustainability in their work.
“You do not need to become accountants but you must be able to read the essentials: understand simple financial statements, budgets and key metrics so you can judge whether a clinic, lab, or program is sustainable. You are encouraged to start your business. There are numerous investment opportunities in your areas of training. You can provide services to our people and create jobs,” Dr Kigozi, said.
She shared candidly how, when she first stepped into leadership, she realised she did not understand balance sheets or budgets well enough. So, she returned to Makerere for short courses to strengthen herself.
“A well-run Hospital, clinic or lab delivers better outcomes, attracts staff, and secures funding. Business savvy is not only about profit, it’s about sustainability and the freedom to serve ethically and effectively. Carry clinical skill with business sense so your work endures and grows,” Dr. Kigozi, noted.
Quoting renowned writer and producer Shonda Rhimes, creator of Grey’s Anatomy, who once reflected that succeeding in one area of life can sometimes mean falling short in another, Dr. Kigozi encouraged women graduates to intentionally balance professional ambition with family responsibilities.
“When one area thrives, another is often under strain. When Navio was graduating from school I had to manage the Presidential Investor Round Table on the same day as Executive Director Uganda Investment Authority. I chose my job and delegated his siblings to attend Navios graduation. I learnt from this. I choose family always after that thing you achieve once and keep forever,” Dr Kigozi, said.
In his speech, the Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor, informed the congregation that Makerere’s ranking on all university ranking platforms has remained stable, placing Makerere among the top 10 African universities and within the top 4.5% globally.
“In the Times Higher Education global ranking, Makerere University made a formidable jump from the 1200-1500 bracket to the 800-1000 bracket. This was no mean achievement and I congratulate all members of the Makerere Community on this stellar performance,” Prof Nawangwe, said.
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