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Hon. Elioda Tumwesigye acknowledges the role of media in bridging the gap between scientists and communities

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The Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovations Hon. EliodaTumwesigye, has acknowledged the tremendous role played by media in bridging the communication gap that has long existed between researchers/ scientists and communities.

Speaking to journalists, communication specialists, scholars, and scientific researchers at Makerere University Annual Media Convention on 25th April 2019, the Minister said that through media and other communication channels, useful research findings and Scientific information has reached communities in a simple and understandable manner.

“The media is key to creating this link between science and society as science not communicated is science lost. Publishing findings in journals is good but the information therein never reaches the public. By reporting about scientific developments, the media contribute to public understanding of and engagement with science and technology,” he said.

The media is key to creating this link between science and society as science not communicated is science lost.

According to Hon. Tumwesigye, there is need to develop strong partnerships between scientists who generate the knowledge and the media who take it to society. Similarly, scientists also need to get out of their laboratories and communicate science and scientific information in a format easy for the public to understand if they are to remain relevant to society.

He commended social media as a handy tool through which information on scientific discoveries, innovations and other breakthroughs can be communicated. He also mentioned that through social media, scientific misconceptions have been corrected and consensus on controversial science subjects have been generated.

The Minister noted that currently, Science, Technology and Innovation and more specifically Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is a central driver of all aspects of human endeavor.  The World’s most revolutionary innovations are driven by ICTs which constitute the 3rd Industrial revolution and are at the Centre of the 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR).

“Recently, while launching the National Task Force for the 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR), H.E. President Yoweri Museveni stated that: “The primer of all social change in society is the advancement in science and technology but in order to use it well you must integrate it holistically. You should not just come in at the periphery and you think that you are going to benefit.”

The Minister was excited to learn that Makerere University had become the champion in pioneering Science Communication as part of journalism and media training. He was also grateful to know that the University had strategically recognized social media as an additional tool for advancing science communication and public engagement.

Some of the participants that attended the  Makerere University Annual Media Convention (AMC) 2019

The Makerere University Annual Media Convention (AMC) 2019 was organized by the Department of Journalism and Communication, College of Humanities and Social Sciences in partnership with SciDev. Net. The event brought together journalists and media practitioners, public communication experts, policy makers and government officials, academicians, civil society and development partners, as well as journalism students across the region to discuss and propose solutions on how to improve and advance journalism and communication with a critical focus on the role traditional and social media platforms play in disseminating scientific information in society. The event was organized under the theme: Communicating Science in the Social Media Age: Sharing Technical Information from Researchers to the Media”.

According to the Head, Department of Journalism and Communication Dr. William Teyebwa, the AMC 2019 provided a platform to the leading minds in the area of communication and journalism together with scientists and researchers to deeply analyze the concept Science communication, draw frameworks on the relationship between media and research and develop strategies on how journalists can work harmoniously with scientists to help communities.

“This year, we are paying much attention to how technical information from research institutions is reported to the general public, the challenges faced and how such information is discussed in society, in an attempt to improve science communication in Uganda,” said Dr. Tayebwa.

 The Head, Department of Journalism and Communication Dr. William Teyebwa addressing participants.

Representing the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Umar Kakumba, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs said the world is driven by science and technology. “The dichotomy of the world along two economic poles, of developed and developing is mostly linked to the level of science and technology sophistication. This implies that science and technology play pivotal roles in the developing nations,” he said.

He however noted that Universities within the African Continent are producing large volumes of scientific research that has failed to serve its intended purpose of improving productivity and contributing to development due ineffective dissemination procedures.

“It is therefore important that we focus on having scientific research well disseminated using various forms of communication. The media is one of the most effective avenues for disseminating information as well as popularizing and moderating debate on issues that directly or indirectly impact the wellbeing of humanity. In this era, social media is one of the fastest and most cost-effective modes of communication that we should explore in promoting scientific research,” he remarked.

He thanked the Department of Journalism and Communication for the well thought-out theme, and called upon institutions of higher learning to pave way for the improvement of science communication and consequently contribute to scientific and technological advancement on the African Continent.

Dr. Umar Kakumba, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs making remarks.

He appreciated the media for the support they have accorded Makerere University over the years. Dr. Kakumba said the media has been very instrumental in promoting Makerere University’s activities and this has greatly contributed to the visibility of University at the national and international levels.

He commended the Government of Uganda for supporting and promoting scientific research. “I thank the President for his support through the Presidential Initiative on Science and Technology that has resulted into a number of innovations that are transforming our country. I wish to let you know that the Government of Uganda in the next financial year (2018/2019), has committed UGX30 billion for research at Makerere University. With this money, Makerere University will continue to advance its research agenda as it contributes to transformation of lives.”

Addressing participants at the closing ceremony, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. William Bazeyo described Science and Journalism as two important disciplines that make a lot of sense. “You cannot be a successful researcher if you cannot get someone to interpret your work and give it to community. Journalists have helped the people we serve to understand what we think. You are the only link between government, policy makers, and community,” he said.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor Finance and Administration, Prof. William Bazeyo (L) hands over the Tebere-Mudin Award to the overall best Journalism student 2017/2018, Ms Lyn Tukei (2nd R) at the 2019 Annual Media Convention held in the Main Hall, Makerere University on 25th April 2019. Right is the General Manager Editorial, Nation Media Group Uganda, Mr. Daniel Kalinaki. Left is Dr William Tayebwa, Head Department of Journalism and Communication.

The day’s theme was expounded by two keynote addresses from Prof. Emmanuel S. Dandaura- the Executive Director, Institute of Strategic and Development Communication, Nasarawa State University in Keffi Nigeria and Dr. Abraham KipropMulwo, Senior Lecturer, Department of Communication Studies at Moi University, Kenya.

Dr. Abraham KipropMulwo explained that the impact of scientific work is dependent on how effectively it is communicated. In his presentation titled, “Status and Future of Science Communication -Global and Regional Perspective”, Dr. KipropMulwo noted that public engagement with science depends on how the scientists and the public cooperate and allow people from the diverse background and varying scientific knowledge to voice their opinions in regard to scientific conversations.  

“Much of Scientific research is funded through private and public resources, with the expectation that scientific work will contribute to resolving societal challenges. It is therefore important that the outcome of scientific research is effectively communicated,” he said.

The Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Elioda Tumwesigye (C) and the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Dr. Umar Kakumba joined by members of staff from the Department of Journalism and Communication and other communication specialists at the 2019 Annual Media Convention held on 25th April, 2019 in the Main Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda

Quoting Prof. Lewenstein, Dr. KipropMulwo said communicating science requires scientists to close the gap separating knowledge and belief in interacting with the public. He also mentioned that with the emergency of new media technologies, Data Centres and Research Digital Libraries (RDLs) are emerging as the pillars that support contemporary scientific communication.

“There are technologies and administrative personnel that help researchers to store, discover and share both data and publications. Furthermore, modern technological inventions such as telescopes, satellites and sensor networks help sci-tests to generate large amounts of data,” he stated.

He also noted that social media is rapidly transforming ways in which science is communicated. Previously, communicating science was a challenge to both the scientists and Science communicators. Science communication, when executed, was one way. With the inherently interactive nature of social media, communication has been made a two-way engagement process whereby scientists can receive criticism and questions from users of social media.

Dr. KipropMulwo however noted that in spite the emerging issues in development, the mainstream media and journalists in particular, remain underutilized as means of bridging the communication gap between scientists and societies within which they operate.

“The major challenge is science communication through mainstream media lacks a clear understanding of the science of science communication. It is relatively easy for scientists to communicate to their colleagues since they are aware of the information they need. The problem is when scientific information needs to be communicated to ordinary citizens. Scientists lack clear understanding of what the public wants and how to make complex scientific information simple. Moreover, the communication is mediated by journalists who still have their own interests on what to communicate,” said Dr. KipropMulwo.

In his keynote address on the “Nexus between Science, Media and Communication for Development”, Prof. Emmanuel S. Dandaura called upon media practitioners to put science into use by helping the public understand research results and make informed choices and decisions.

Prof. Emmanuel S. Dandaura giving a keynote address on the “Nexus between Science, Media and Communication for Development”.

“Communication is what makes development happen, if people are not properly informed about scientific innovations and research, the findings will have little or no impact on society,” said Prof. Dandaura.

He noted that most of the Science Communication activities in Africa are driven by foreign based public relations firms.  Prof. Dandaura also revealed to participants that most of the African Tertiary Institutions run omnibus journalism or mass communication programmes that hardly prepare the would be science journalists.  He therefore made recommendations among which included;
•    Regular trainings of media professionals, educators, scientists, on different aspects of sciences communication
•    Integrate science communication into the undergraduates and post graduate curriculum
•    Create opportunities for scientists and journalists to interact
•    Understand the African agenda on science communication
•    Advance science communication as a discipline within communication
•    Encourage policy engaged research in the institution of higher learning
•    Leverage on the new media technologies

3.	The Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Elioda Tumwesigye over certificates to some of the students. left, is DR. Charles WendoLwanga, the Director of Script Project, ScieDev.Net..

The two keynote addresses were further enriched by two panel discussions and an interactive session. The sessions were chaired by Mr. Adolf Mbaine, DR. Charles WendoLwanga, Dr. Ivan Lukanda, Mrs Marjorie Nyitegeka, and Mr. John Baptist Imokola.

Panelists included;
•    Ms. Barbara Zawedde, National Agricultural Research Organization
•    Prof. Goretti Nasanga, Department of Journalism and Communication, Makerere University
•    Dr. Samuel G. Oketch, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Bio-security, Makerere University
•    Ms. GlorriaSebikari, Petroleum Authority of Uganda
•    Mr. Hillary Bainemigisha, Columnist, New Vision
•    Mr. Gerald Tenywa, Senior Reporter, New Vision
•    Mr. Daniel Kalinaki, Convergence Editor, Monitor Publications
•    Ms. Esther Nakazzi, Science and Technology Journalist

Among the day’s proceedings was the awarding of certificates to over 30 students of Journalism and Communication who successfully completed a one-year online short course in Science Communication. The certificates were handed over to the students by the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovations Hon. EliodaTumwesigye together with DR. Charles WendoLwanga, the Director of Script Project, ScieDev.Net.

At the same function, Daily Monitor awarded Ms. Lyn Tukei with the Tebere-Mudin Award for the overall best performing student of Journalism and Communication. Ms Lyn Tukei graduated in January 2019 with CGPA of 4.29.  

The Deputy Vice Chancellor Finance and Administration, Prof. William Bazeyo (L) hands over the Cranimer Mugerwa Award to the best Photo Journalism student 2017/2018, Ms Betty Musasizi (represented by sister 2nd R) at the 2019 Annual Media Convention held in the Main Hall, Makerere University on 25th April 2019. Second right is the Head of Marketing and Communication, Vision Group, Ms. Dorothy Muttu. Left is Dr William Tayebwa, Head Department of Journalism and Communication.

Ms. Betty Musasizi won the CranimerMugerwa Award for the best performing student in photojournalism. The award is sponsored by New Vision in honour of their treasured fallen photojournalist Cranimer Mugerwa.  

The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. William Bazeyo pledged to support the best Journalism and Communication student with a token of UGX 2milion starting next academic year 2019/2020.

Representing Dr. Josephine Ahikire, the Acting Principal of College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Dr. Julius Kikoma applauded the Department of Journalism for consistently organizing the Annual Media Convention for the last 20 years.  He thanked the 2019 conveners Mrs. Marjorie Nyitegeka and Dr. Ivan Lukanda for the wonderful and successful event.

Dr. Merit Kabugo who represented the Dean, School of Languages, Literature and Communication commended the leadership of Journalism and Communication on the tremendous developments.

“The Department has also been very instrumental in training many media specialists that we are proud of today. The good job you are doing should be maintained or even taken a notch higher,” he said.

Article by Nabatte Proscovia, Mak Public Relations Office.

 

 

Proscovia Nabatte

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NCBA Commits UGX 1.45 Billion to Makerere Marathon, Pledges Five-Year Support for Inclusive Education

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (C) flanked by Dr. Maggie Kigozi (R) and Mr. Mark Muyobo (L) on 9th July 2025 at Makerere University. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.

By Eve Nakyanzi and Atwenda Nancy

Makerere University has officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the platinum sponsor for the 2025 Makerere University Marathon (#MakRun2025), marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable student support. The partnership was formally announced during a colourful event held at the university, attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund, and NCBA Bank Uganda CEO, Mr. Mark Muyobo.

NCBA Bank Uganda’s UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship over the next five years is the largest corporate contribution to the Makerere Marathon to date. It underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting quality education, community development, and equity.  Mr. Muyobo said that, “We are driven by the desire to leave every community better than we found it”. He added that the goal is to empower disadvantaged students to live without limitations, describing this initiative as a bold stride toward establishing a world-class international marathon.

Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance.

“This is more than just a sponsorship, it is a strategic partnership built on shared values,” Dr. Kigozi remarked. “With this support, we are positioned to establish a fully equipped Disability Support Unit and a sustainable pool of funds to assist economically disadvantaged students.”

The marathon, slated under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future,” seeks to unify students, alumni, corporate entities, and professional athletes in pursuit of a common cause. At its core, the MakRun2025 promotes active lifestyles, social inclusion, and a sense of communal responsibility.

“It’s not just a race,” Prof. Nawangwe emphasized. “It is a movement to break barriers, change lives, and build a resilient, inclusive university.”

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe poses with the #MakRun2025 photo frame. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe poses with the #MakRun2025 photo frame.

The marathon’s broader impact includes fundraising for students living with disabilities and those facing financial hardship, contributing directly to the university’s Endowment Fund.

A major highlight of the event is the introduction of a full 42.2-kilometer marathon—bringing international standards to the annual run. Organizers have promised a professional, accredited experience with traffic-free routes and ample support for runners.

“This edition will elevate the MakRun into a world-class event,” said Mr. Muyobo. “We are proud to support Makerere University in realizing its dream of a globally recognized marathon that reflects Uganda’s commitment to education and inclusivity.”

Beyond the race itself, the event will feature a vibrant line-up of activities, including music, drama, and games for all age groups. It is designed to foster a festival-like atmosphere that welcomes every member of the community.

Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Officials pose with runners in the Freedom Square.

Organizers and university leaders have extended an open invitation to students, staff, alumni, corporate partners, and Kampala residents to participate, cheer, or donate to the cause.

“Every step taken is a step towards hope for a student,” Dr. Kigozi stated. “Together, we are building a Makerere that cares, includes, and uplifts.”

The partnership is expected to significantly enhance the university’s ability to support underprivileged students and improve campus infrastructure for students with disabilities. It also sets the tone for future collaborations that align with the values of compassion, excellence, and innovation. The fifth edition of the MakRun is scheduled to take place on August 17th, 2025.

The Writers are Interns in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University

Mak Editor

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Re-Advert for Applications for Diploma and Certificate Training

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The Government of Uganda and AFRISA in Collaboration with Makerere University invites
applicants for Diploma and Certificate programs tenable at the College of Veterinary Medicine,
Animal Resources and Bio-security (COVAB).

The details are in the following document:

The deadline for receiving applications will be 25th August, 2025.

Elias Tuhereze

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Mak Marathon Unveils NCBA as Platinum Sponsor

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Left to Right: NCBA Bank CEO-Mr. Mark Muyobo, MakEF Board Chairperson-Dr. Maggie Kigozi and the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hold the dummy cheque unveiling the UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship for the Makerere Marathon for the next five years. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.

Makerere University has today Wednesday, 9th June 2025 officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon. Formerly known as a fun run, the initiative was rebranded on 27th March 2025 during the launch of its Fifth Edition. This year’s event, #MakRun2025, is slated for 17th August 2025 under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future”.

MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi.

Addressing the Media at a press conference this afternoon, the MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi remarked, “We are deeply honoured and excited to unveil NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of #MakRun2025, with a landmark commitment of UGX 1.45 billion over the next five years.”

Dr. Maggie Kigozi shows her support for #MakRun2025. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Dr. Maggie Kigozi shows her support for #MakRun2025.

Dr. Kigozi further described the unveiling as “a strategic partnership built on shared values and a common vision for inclusive education and sustainable impact,” adding that it would “fast-track the establishment of a fully equipped Disability Support Unit for students living with disabilities, and to build a sustainable pool of funds to support Economically Disadvantaged Students.”

Appreciating the generous sponsorship, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe acknowledged that NCBA Bank had not only made history as the biggest corporate sponsor of #MakRun to date but also aligned with Makerere’s vision to improve the quality of student life. “This is a powerful gesture of trust in our mission and a demonstration of deep corporate citizenship”, he added.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe makes his remarks. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe makes his remarks.

Prof. Nawangwe further thanked NCBA for recognizing that an investment in Makerere University is an indirect investment in the future of Uganda. “The Makerere Marathon is not just a race. It is a movement to establish a fully-fledged Disability Support Unit for students living with various forms of disabilities, and to build a sustainable fund for Economically Disadvantaged Students.”

The Vice Chancellor therefore rallied staff, students, alumni, partners and friends of Makerere to match NCBA’s generous support with vigour and commitment, so as to make #MakRun2025 the most impactful edition since its founding.

Mr. Mark Muyobo makes his remarks at the press conference. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Mr. Mark Muyobo makes his remarks at the press conference.

The Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mark Muyobo thanked Makerere University for giving NCBA Bank Uganda the opportunity to play its part in “shaping Uganda’s future one student, one community, one strength at a time,” adding that #MakRun is a symbol of hope for students living with disabilities as it speaks to Makerere’s core values of inclusion, equity, and excellence.

On a rhythmical note, Mr. Muyobo remarked that the #MakRun2025 theme is “not just about finishing lines, it is about opening doors; giving opportunities to those who are disabled. It is about promoting active lifestyle.”

Runners get flagged off for an evening run after the unveiling ceremony. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Runners get flagged off for an evening run after the unveiling ceremony.

#MakRun2025 will for the first time feature a full 42.2km marathon race with international accreditation and professional timing along a dedicated traffic-free route.

“These are not just upgrades, these are bold steps towards building a world-class international marathon right here in Kampala. We are proud to be the wings at your back as you take this leap because when Makerere University, the beacon of higher learning in Uganda grows stronger, the ripple effects are felt across the region and across the continent” Mr. Muyobo affirmed.

Mr. Mark Muyobo (L) and Dr. Maggie Kigozi (R) pose with the signed MoU. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Mr. Mark Muyobo (L) and Dr. Maggie Kigozi (R) pose with the signed MoU.

To officially seal the deal, a Memorandum of Understanding was officially signed between Makerere University and NCBA Bank Uganda, and thereafter, a dummy cheque of UGX 1.45 billion was presented to Dr. Maggie Kigozi as the Vice Chancellor, Members of Management and NCBA staff witnessed.

Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance.

Mark Wamai

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