Connect with us

General

Mak – Hunan Province, China to partner in research and academic development

Published

on

On 13th June 2019, a delegation from Hunan Provincial Department of Education, China met the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration (Makerere University) Prof William Bazeyo, Members of Management together with directors and staff from Makerere University Confucius Institute. Led by Mr. Jiang Changzhong, the Director General of Hunan Provincial Department of Education, the delegation consisted of Prof. Cheng Chenyang and Prof. Zhen Chijian, Vice Presidents of Central South University and Xiangtan University respectively.

Mr. Jiang Changzhong was also accompanied by Mr. Lui Jing-Director, Department of Human Resources, and Mr. Zhou Fangyou- Director, Office of International Exchange- Hunan Provincial Department of Education; Prof. Zou Wei- Deputy Dean, School of International Exchange, Prof. Lui Qin- School of Continuous Education, Mr. Chen Yang- Director, Department of Psychical education and Mr. Chen Xingua- Deputy Dean, School of Civil Engineering and Mechanics- Xiangtan University; and Mrs. Li Xinhua- Deputy Director, Office of International Cooperation and Exchange, Central South University.

 Mr. Jiang Changzhong  handing over a token of appreciation to Prof. William Bazeyo.

In an intensive meeting that was held in Makerere University Council Room, the team discussed the possible areas of collaboration that will culminate into signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Makerere University and Hunan Provincial Department of Education. Among the areas discussed included;

  • Support scientific research in areas of engineering, medicine, agriculture, and social sciences
  • Students and staff exchange
  • Construct a ten stored multi-facility building that will house the Makerere University Confucius Institute and a museum
  • Academic construction and communication
  • Available scholarships and fellowships
  • Academic opportunities at Chinese Universities.

The fruitful meeting also focused on strengthening ties between Makerere University and Xiangtan University as well as Makerere University and Central South University. In 2010, Makerere University entered into a long-term partnership with Xiangtan University under the framework of Chinese and African Universities 20+20 Cooperation Plan. The collaboration focused on training and teaching Chinese language and culture in Uganda. This partnership led to the birth of Makerere University Confucius Institute in 2014. In 2017, Makerere partnered with Central South University to enhance knowledge transfer in areas of engineering and medicine.

In the remarks he made on 13th June 2019, Prof. Bazeyo warmly welcomed Mr. Jiang Chanzhong, and other delegates to Makerere University. In a special way he welcomed Prof. Cheng Chenyang and Prof. Zhen Chijian, Vice Presidents of Central South University and Xiangtan University respectively and appreciated their tremendous support that has shaped the academic setting and research at the helm of Makerere University.

Some of the delegates during the meeting on 13th June 2019 in the Makerere University Council Room.

Prof. Bazeyo informed the visiting delegation that Makerere is a comprehensive University whose research output is highly ranked on the Africa continent. According to him, the institution is known for having the best tropical medicine school in the whole world where research on tropical medicine is done.

“Makerere University has for long engaged in activities that are geared towards finding solutions to African problems. The institution has engaged in developing human resource capacity that has strongly supported the economic and industrial sector of Uganda and Africa at large. Our students excel internationally and we probably have the largest number of collaborations in Africa,” he said.

He hailed the strengthened cooperation between China and Uganda in various sectors including education and business. “Uganda established diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China in 1962 and has since enjoyed excellent relations in bilateral trade, cultural exchange, technology and scientific transfers,” he stated.

Prof. Zhen Chijian, Vice President of  Xiangtan University.

In an overview about Makerere University, the Head, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Prof, Noble Banadda outlined the research trends at Makerere University   that have been geared towards solving African challenges.

The Director General, Hunan Provincial Department of Education Mr. Jiang Changzhong, thanked Prof. Bazeyo for the warm reception accorded to his delegation. He was happy to visit Makerere University; the oldest, biggest and most influential University in Uganda.

He appreciated the strong relationship China has with Uganda and Makerere University and hoped for an enhanced mutual understanding that will broaden their areas of collaboration.  

Mr. Jiang Changzhong, in a synopsis on the education status in Hunan Province said that Hunan is a big province featured with developed economy, technology, education, culture, openness and tourism. The area is taking advantage of the opportunities brought by the developments in belt and road initiatives to build a strong education system in the country. Currently Hunan is implementing the strategy of innovation and openness to become more comprehensive.

Some of the members of Makerere University Management, Directors and Staff of Makerere University Confucius Institute during the meeting.

Oriented by the strategy of innovation and openness, Mr. Jiang Changzhong also mentioned that Hunan Province highly values international communication and cooperation in the field of education. According to him, Schools in Hunan have established stable connection with 300 education institutions from 50 countries.

“We have hired 1500 foreign experts and teachers, built 1 China foreign cooperative institute, created 48 China foreign cooperative programmes and 14 Confucius institutes, constructed 6 Confucius class rooms and sent more than a thousand volunteers to teach Chinese language,” he mentioned.

“In recent years, education in Hunan province is more internationalized. The cooperation in education field between Hunan and Uganda has reached a very constructive level. Except the fruitful cooperation between Xiangtan University and Makerere University, Hunan international, business vocational college has signed cooperation agreements with Uganda side covering students and teachers’ exchanges and human resource training,’’ he added.

Prof. Cheng Chenyang,  Vice President of Central South University.

The Vice President of Xiangtan University Prof. Zhen Chijian, applauded Makerere University for hosting and building a strong foundation for Makerere University Confucius Institute. “Makerere University Confucius Institute was selected one of the best among others in the world. Currently the institute has 6000 students across all the programmes offered,” he said.

Impressed by the historical achievements of Makerere University, the Vice President of Central South University Prof. Cheng Chenyang, said that the institution is ready to strengthen ties with Makerere University in areas of medicine and engineering.

Article by: Nabatte Proscovia- Mak Public Relations Office

Proscovia Nabatte

Continue Reading

General

First Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Sarah Ssali courtesy visit to MakPress

Published

on

Prof. Sarah Ssali and Dr. William Tayeebwa together with staff show off some of MakPress' publications during the visit on 21st October 2025. First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

As part of her efforts to familiarize herself with the offices under her docket, the newly appointed First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, has embarked on a series of visits to different units that report to her office. One of these is the Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, on a courtesy call. She was received by the Managing Editor for MakPress, Dr. William Tayeebwa, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Journalism and Communication at the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Previously, MakPress operated jointly with the Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) and the Directorate of Research, Innovations and Partnerships (DRIP) before becoming a standalone entity. Accompanying Prof. Ssali on this visit were Prof. Julius Kikooma, the Director of DGT, and Mr. Mathias Ssemanda, the Acting Manager of the International Relations Office.

Prof. Sarah Ssali (2nd Right) flanked by Left-Right: Mr. Matthias Ssemanda, Prof. Julius Kikooma, Dr. William Tayeebwa and Ms. Eunice Rukundo signs the MakPress Visitors' Book. First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali (2nd Right) flanked by Left-Right: Mr. Matthias Ssemanda, Prof. Julius Kikooma, Dr. William Tayeebwa and Ms. Eunice Rukundo signs the MakPress Visitors’ Book.

During her visit to MakPress, Prof. Sarah Ssali commended the Unit for its progress and partnerships while emphasizing the need to strengthen collaboration with key institutions such as the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC), the Ministry of Education and Sports, and other universities. She encouraged the Press to explore practical working models, including leveraging external expertise and streamlining its printing processes to enhance efficiency. Prof. Ssali also highlighted the importance of safeguarding intellectual property, ensuring fair contractual terms with partners, and maintaining transparency in publishing agreements. She advised that Makerere University Press should position itself strategically by producing high-quality academic materials that serve both national and international audiences. Additionally, she urged the team to adopt a more consistent publication schedule—launching books quarterly or biannually—and to organize events where authors can engage directly with readers, scholars, and policymakers. Prof. Ssali reaffirmed the administration’s support toward building a stronger, more vibrant university press that effectively contributes to research dissemination, academic dialogue, and national development.

Dr. William Tayeebwa (R) autographs a copy of the Centennial Publication "Makerere's Century of Service to East Africa and Beyond" for Prof. Sarah Ssali (Right). First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. William Tayeebwa (R) autographs a copy of the Centennial Publication “Makerere’s Century of Service to East Africa and Beyond” for Prof. Sarah Ssali (Right).

During the courtesy visit, Dr. William Tayeebwa highlighted the milestones and ongoing projects at the Press. He spoke about the growing partnerships with institutions such as the University of Chicago Press, the University of California Press, and the African Books Collective, which have enhanced both local and international visibility of Makerere’s publications. “Why make a university press when you have Makerere University Press”, Dr. Tayeebwa said urging public universities to utilize MakPress. Dr. Tayeebwa also shared that the Press has republished several titles, launched new book projects, and developed a digital platform that enables readers to access and purchase books online. However, he pointed out a number of challenges affecting the Press’s operations, including inadequate funding, limited printing capacity at the university printery, and delays that often affect the timely release of publications. He further noted the difficulty of accessing generated funds due to bureaucratic procedures, space and infrastructure limitations, and the continued confusion between the roles of the Press and the printery. Despite these challenges, Dr. Tayeebwa reaffirmed the commitment of his team to strengthen Makerere University Press as a central pillar in advancing research dissemination and academic publishing.

Dr. William Tayeebwa (3rd R) gestures during MakPress Staff interaction with the DVCAA. First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. William Tayeebwa (3rd R) gestures during MakPress Staff interaction with the DVCAA.

Eve Nakyanzi

Continue Reading

General

MURBS celebrates growth in FY2024/25 performance

Published

on

Left to Right: Prof. Sarah Ssali, Mrs. Lorna Magara, Dr. Michael Kizito and Mr. Mark Lotukei at the presentation of MURBS FY2024/2025 performance on 21st October 2025. Makerere University Retirement Benefit Scheme (MURBS) presents performance of Financial Year 2024/2025 to the sponsor, the University Council and other stakeholders, 21st October 2025, Telepresence Centre, Senate building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University Retirement Benefit Scheme (MURBS) has presented its performance of Financial Year 2024/2025 to the sponsor, the University Council and other stakeholders on 21st of October in the Telepresence Centre, Senate building. MURBS which is a Mandatory Employer-Based Scheme was established by Makerere University under an irrevocable trust effective 1st April 2009 to provide retirement benefits to employees of Makerere University.

Council applauds MURBS Performance

In her remarks at the presentation, the Chairperson of the University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, commended the Scheme’s steady progress and reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to safeguarding staff welfare. She noted that MURBS has grown into a trusted, transparent, and professionally managed scheme that continues to strengthen confidence among staff. Mrs. Magara praised the Board of Trustees for their prudent management and governance, describing their work as not merely financial stewardship but the protection of the hopes and futures of Makerere families. She urged continued focus on member education, digital service delivery, and sustainable fund growth, emphasizing that the ultimate goal is to build a lasting legacy of trust and financial wellbeing for all university employees.

Mrs. Lorna Magara. Makerere University Retirement Benefit Scheme (MURBS) presents performance of Financial Year 2024/2025 to the sponsor, the University Council and other stakeholders, 21st October 2025, Telepresence Centre, Senate building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Lorna Magara.

MURBS demonstrates liquidity and resilience amid a volatile economy

Representing the Vice Chancellor, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, commended the Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) for its continued growth, accountability, and prudent management. She applauded the Scheme’s record fund value of UGX 475 billion and its unqualified audit opinion from KPMG, describing these milestones as clear evidence of transparency and sound governance. Prof. Ssali reaffirmed Makerere University’s full commitment as the Scheme’s sponsor, noting the progress made in clearing historical arrears and supporting MURBS operations. She praised the Board’s disciplined investment strategy—particularly its diversification into unit trusts and near-cash assets—which has enhanced liquidity and resilience amid a volatile economy. Highlighting MURBS as a model of good governance and accountability, Prof. Ssali emphasized that a reliable retirement scheme not only secures staff futures but also strengthens motivation, productivity, and institutional excellence.

Prof. Sarah Ssali. Makerere University Retirement Benefit Scheme (MURBS) presents performance of Financial Year 2024/2025 to the sponsor, the University Council and other stakeholders, 21st October 2025, Telepresence Centre, Senate building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali.

Embrace digital transformation – URBRA urges

From Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority (URBRA), the Manager Market Conduct, Mr. Mark Lotukei commended MURBS for its continued commitment to compliance, member education, and sectoral excellence. He highlighted that the Authority has been focusing its trainings on strengthening trustees’ capacity, with recent sessions covering strategic tax planning to help schemes minimize liabilities and safeguard members’ funds. Mr. Lotukei further announced upcoming trainings on benefits administration, stakeholder roles, and the contribution of pension funds to infrastructure and economic development. Emphasizing the evolving nature of the pension landscape, he urged trustees to embrace digital transformation, improve communication with members, and promote sustainable and innovative investment strategies. He concluded by reaffirming URBRA’s commitment to supporting MURBS and other schemes, assuring stakeholders of the Authority’s openness to continued collaboration and guidance.

Mr. Mark Lotukei. Makerere University Retirement Benefit Scheme (MURBS) presents performance of Financial Year 2024/2025 to the sponsor, the University Council and other stakeholders, 21st October 2025, Telepresence Centre, Senate building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Mark Lotukei.

Fund Value Hits Record UGX 475 billion

In his presentation on the performance, the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Michael Kizito, highlighted the Scheme’s continued growth, prudent financial management, and commitment to transparency. He reported that MURBS’ total assets had risen to UGX 475 billion, up from UGX 409 billion the previous year, reflecting strong investment performance and effective governance. Dr. Kizito commended the University management for timely remittances and reaffirmed the Board’s focus on sound risk management, diversification, and member satisfaction. He acknowledged the dedication of the trustees, staff, and service providers, noting that their collective effort has positioned MURBS for sustainable success. Looking ahead, he emphasized the Scheme’s intention to strengthen alternative investments and optimize operations to deliver even greater value to members and stakeholders.

Dr. Michael Kizito. Makerere University Retirement Benefit Scheme (MURBS) presents performance of Financial Year 2024/2025 to the sponsor, the University Council and other stakeholders, 21st October 2025, Telepresence Centre, Senate building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Michael Kizito.

The presentation of the performance of the scheme is one of the activities leading to the Annual General Meeting and it is done to management and the Sponsor of MURBS. The presentation, which attracted several key stakeholders including members of the University Council and representatives from Stanbic Bank and Old Mutual, concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session moderated by Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi. The session provided an opportunity for participants to seek clarity on the Scheme’s performance, governance practices, and investment strategies, fostering transparency and open dialogue between the MURBS leadership and its partners. MURBS is licensed by the Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority (License No. RBS.0005).

Eve Nakyanzi

Continue Reading

General

Mak Management Decries Student Violence at Mitchell Hall

Published

on

An older photo of the Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda as seen from across the Freedom Square. Date taken: 22nd October 2012.

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

All Students,

Makerere University

Dear All,

RE:  VIOLENCE IN MITCHELL HALL OF RESIDENCE

This is to address recent incidents of student violence targeting individuals at Mitchell Hall of residence. Fortunately, the police intervened and prevented harm.

Violence of any kind is unacceptable and has no place at Makerere University. Every member of the University Community deserves to live without fear of violence or harassment.

The University has launched an investigation into the matter and once concluded, strict disciplinary action will be taken against those found responsible in accordance with University Rules & Regulations.

I urge all students to: 

  • Refrain from violence and harassment
  • Report incidences of violence to University Management

As we Build for the Future

Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli

DEAN OF STUDENTS

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

Trending