General
Mak revitalizes its press house: Launches website and three scholarly books
On 30th May 2019, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe launched the Makerere University Press website (https://press.mak.ac.ug), an online space for the institution’s scholars and academicians to publish and market their work.
The launch of the Makerere University Press website was a signature effort for the University to revitalize its legendary Makerere University Press. Established in 1940s, the Makerere University Press focuses on publishing transformative and innovative teaching, learning, research and service resources responsive to dynamic national and global needs.
The objectives of the Makerere University Press are to:
- Publish scholarly monographs, academic texts, reference works, research reports and scholarly journals.
- Encourage members of staff and students of the University to publish worthy academic works in books and journal articles of international standard.
- Encourage writers from other institutions of higher learning in Uganda to write and publish.
- Obtain copyrights from authors and publishers to reproduce essential reading materials.
- Publish textbooks for primary, secondary and tertiary institutions.
- Exploit the potential in the publishing market, which is currently underutilized, and so generate income for the University.
According to the Managing Editor, Makerere University Press Dr. Samuel Siminyu, the Mak Press is currently under the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT). The publishing house serves as a link between the public yearning for knowledge and the creators, refiners and distributors of the knowledge.
“The records we have indicate that the Makerere University Press as an idea was born in the 1940s when Uganda was still a British colony. As far back, Makerere University was already a hub of intellectual activities in the region, and the British academics and colonial administrators working here at that time mooted the idea of establishing a University Press at Makerere University as a channel for capturing and sharing these ideas. The idea seems to have fruited in the 1960s but it was short-lived. Only two publications from that period persisted in our records,” he said.
It is therefore clear from the existing records that Makerere University Press has had a history of starts and halts that stretch back to the late 1960s. About Sixty four (64) publications carry the Makerere University Press imprint. Fifteen others were either co-published with or through other Publishing houses. Makerere University has also produced numerous Open Distance Learning materials under various units of the University. Records also indicate that currently, Makerere University hosts 22 peer-reviewed journals.
At the same function, the Vice Chancellor launched three (3) maiden publications, namely:
- Contemporary African Philosophers: A Critical Appraisal by Dr. Wilfred Lajul
- The Power of Identity: Imbalu Initiation Ritual Among the Bamasaaba of Uganda by Prof. J.P. Wotsuna Khamalwa
- Modernization of Luganda Terminology in the Field of Linguistics by Dr. Saudah Namyalo
Addressing the audience on Thursday, 30th May 2019 at the Senate Conference Hall, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe applauded the Makerere University Press Editorial Board and Secretariat, the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training for ensuring that the Makerere University Press regains its grounds to serve the University community.
In the same spirit, he appreciated authors: Dr. Saudah Namyalo, Prof. J.P. Wotsuna Khamalwa and Dr. Wilfred Lajul for the commendable scholarly materials rich in African history, cultural and language.
“Today, we celebrate a milestone; the life of Makerere University Press and the individual lives of the authors and the books we are launching. With these publications, we register our presence as an outlet for African scholarly voices. Instead of reaching out through channels that are not our own, we can now reach out to one another and the rest of the world using our own voice and through our own channel,” remarked the Vice Chancellor.
“Let me thank Dr. Lajul for adding our voice to the debate on what constitutes African philosophy; Prof Wotsuna Khamalwa for exposing what imbalu means to the Bamasaaba and their self-identity; and Dr. Namyalo for guiding us on how to grow our local languages by adding new words and representing modern concepts scientifically. The journey has been long and eventful. We have grown to know each other better and to appreciate our humanity – strengths and weaknesses notwithstanding,” he added.
Prof. Nawangwe called upon staff and students to embrace the Makerere University Press and put it to good use. He thanked the Government of Uganda for investing tremendously in Makerere University to undertake research and publish knowledge-generating materials.
The Director of Research and Graduate Training, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi said that Makerere University has for long experienced a deep information-publication gap due to lack of a publication channel of its own.
“Our staff and students have generated data that is useful to society. However, without publishing channels, this data has not been useful. I believe that the University Press will be an easier and friendly channel to our members, not forgetting the quality of the content. Through the Makerere University Press, staff and students will be able to publish materials swiftly and cheaply,” he stated.
Makerere University Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) who is also the Chairperson of Makerere University Press Editorial Board, Dr. Umar Kakumba, thanked Makerere University Management for allocating funds to the Makerere University Press in the financial year 2018/2019. He also recognized the support from Carnegie Foundation of New York that financed the initial revitalization activities during the reign of Prof. Eli Katunguka and Dr. George Nasinyama at the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training.
“We thank those who have helped us along the way: typists and typesetters; reviewers and editors, accountants and book-keepers; colleagues within and without Makerere, the old and new Makerere University Press Editorial Board Members; friends in the publishing fraternity and many others,” he said
In a key note address on Raising African Voices in Scholarly Publishing: Challenges and Opportunities (the Implications of a University Press in Scholarship-Book), Prof. John Opuda-Asibo urged Makerere University to reflect on its efforts, mission and vision while operationalizing the Makerere University Press.
“We should remind ourselves that the University Press is not a profit oriented venture. The press is basically for knowledge publication and marketing academics ideas. It is not profitable but provides service and visibility. In addition, we should avoid copy and paste. Plagiarism has affected the trend of writing and publication in the scholarly world,” he emphasized.
According to Prof. Opuda-Asibo, to have an active and valued Makerere University Press, staff and students should observe the following while publishing:
- A Statutory Instrument outlining legal status, operations (management, ethical issues, place and positions of authors, timeframes) and Intellectual Property issues in place for smooth functioning of the university press.
- A good published book should have: an overview, background information, rational and justification including the scope of the works, investigative questions and answers, procedures and measurement of events, both basic and analytical description and interpretation.
- The Author must bear in mind the reader’s expectation as you write. The content must be well written in terms of expressions, time frame and quality of the language. What question does the publication answer? Does the title relate to the subject matter? Is there a useful conclusion appropriate to the context and relevance?
- The reader must look for the reputation of the author, significance of the document, and other people’s reviewed works and knowledge gaps in problems so far solved or unsolved.
- The reader should be given an opportunity to develop his or her own view as a user or an author of similar works.
Prof. Opuda-Asibo’s keynote address was further enriched by a panel discussion led by Prof. Edward Wamala and Dr. William Tayeebwa. The two panelists provided an insight into the current models of publishing and freedom of speech and expression in Uganda respectively.
Article by Mak Public Relations Office
Education
Makerere University signs Memorandum of Understanding with International Rescue Committee to Advance Research, Innovation and Partnerships
Makerere University has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Rescue Committee to formalize undertakings in research, innovation & partnerships.
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.
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.”
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.
General
Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University encouraged to participate in philanthropy work
By Carol Kasujja Adii and Bernard Buteera
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.
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.
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.
“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.
“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.
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.
“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.
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.
Carol Kasujja and Bernard Buteera form the communications team for the Scholars Programme at Makerere University.
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