Connect with us

General

Prof. Nawangwe Leads Delegation to Zurich for 4th Mak-UZH Joint Symposium

Published

on

The Vice Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe was at University of Zurich, Switzerland to attend the Dialogue Days under the theme, Global Health Challenges: What Next? Held from 9th to 11th September 2019, the event was organised by the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Makerere University in collaboration with the University of Zurich (UZH) and the Careum Auditorium.
 
Dialogue Days is a two-day event (symposium) on Global Health sponsored by UZH, University Hospital Zurich, Researchers for Global Health, Makerere University and the Infectious Diseases Institute. The Dialogue days were interactive sessions and discussions with experts and emerging leaders on climate change, migration and infectious diseases. The focus of the dialogue was the interconnectedness of the global community, the challenges faced in different parts of the globe and what can be done to solve the future global health challenges. The event was open to the public and many scientists from Italy, other universities in Switzerland, Belgium, German and UK all joined the discussions.
 
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe makes closing remarks at the Dialogue Days Event
 
Prof. Nawangwe was accompanied by the Principal College of Health Sciences (CHS), Prof. Charles Ibingira and the Head of Dept of Biosecurity, Ecosystems and Veterinary Public Health Dr. Clovice Kankya, who also represented Prof. J.D. Kabasa – Principal College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB). He was also accompanied by the Dean School of Medicine – Prof. Moses Kamya, former Dean School of Medicine – Prof. Harriet Mayanja Kizza, Executive Director IDI – Dr. Andrew Kambugu, Director of the Human Rights and Peace Center (HURIPEC) – Dr. Zahara Nampewo and Ms. Martha Muwanguzi – Head International Office at Makerere University. Also in attendance were senior researchers, young scientists, laboratory technologists, Clinicians and PhD students, among others.
 
The joint scientific symposium is held every other year at UZH and Mak alternately. In 2008, Mak signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UZH to facilitate the forging of a mutually rewarding academic partnership. The MOU has fostered the establishment of multi-disciplinary partnerships across diverse fields including philosophy, social anthropology, ethics, health sciences, veterinary sciences and law.
 
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Branabas Nawangwe (Left) presents a plaque to the President of the University of Zurich, Prof. Michael Hengartner (Right)
 
One such partnership is the collaboration between the Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute of UZH and IDI. The partners exchanged visits including the co-hosting of scientific symposia in their respective institutions over the last ten years.
 
Presentations at the symposium were made on Communicable Diseases in Animals and Climate Change and the impact on our health. As the human population increases, the wrath has been meted on our environment, cutting down trees for firewood and charcoal as well as building houses.
 
This implies that wild animals which were living far away from us have now moved nearer to our homes and have infected our pets with diseases. Without proper vaccination, diseases are transmitted from pets to the humans. Not only to the humans but also to other domestic animals that we keep such as like pigs, goats and cows.
 
Dr. Clovice Kankya from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (standing right) contributes to the discussion during the Migration Boma
 
Migration is another important and key factor in spreading communicable diseases. From time immemorial, people have been on the move from their original places of abode to new places in search of jobs, and others as a result of wars, conflict and even epidemics in some instances. The migrants normally move with their animals such as goats, sheep and cows into new places.
 
Urbanisation has also contributed to the spread of Communicable diseases in big cities where many people are living in unhygienic conditions in slums. In such places, the HIV/AIDS prevalence is high, while cholera, bilharzias and other diseases are a common occurence. Neglected tropical diseases, rabies, scabies, Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), oncology, mental health, maternal and child health also pose a big challenge towards our health.
 
The easiest way to deal with some of the health challenges is through advocacy and thorough sensitization of the masses about the dangers of the diseases. The saying goes that “prevention is better than cure “. It was emphasized by the symposium that Leadership for global health has to be visionary and pragmatic, a voice for the voiceless and one that will look into the future of its citizens and plan for better health.
 
Amb. Eunice Kigenyi, Deputy Permanent Representative of Uganda to the UN and Other International Organisations, Geneva, makes her speech
 
Participants were hosted to a dinner at the University cafeteria UniTurm which was attended by H.E. Christopher Onyanga Aparr, Uganda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and Other International Organisations, Geneva. In his speech, H.E welcomed the visitors from Uganda led by the Vice Chancellor and appreciated the hospitality by University of Zurich. He hailed the leadership of the two institutions for keeping the platform alive for the last ten years.
 
“Uganda and Switzerland enjoy cordial bilateral relations. The two respective governments have set in motion the requisite foundation upon which both parties can build on. It goes without saying that people to people relations are at the core of any country’s relations and I hence congratulate you for this great initiative.
 
It is worth noting that the Government of Uganda under its Vision 2040, being implemented through the five-year phased development plans, has earmarked Science, Technology. Engineering and Innovation (STEI) as one of the key sectors of the economy where it has and will continue to employ and support policies aimed at its leapfrogging, as we work towards transforming the Ugandan society from a peasant to a modern and prosperous country within 30 years including changing from a predominantly low income to a competitive upper to middle income country” remarked H.E. Onyanga Aparr.
 
Amb. Eunice Kigenyi (Right) shakes hands with the Dean of Medicine, UZH, Prof. Rainer Weber (Left) after her speech
 
The question of who is responsible for global health, kept recurring. Is it the developed world acting against the developing worlds through manufacturing expensive drugs for various illnesses in order to continue offering markets for their pharmaceutical companies? Do we have to train more people to handle the health challenges? Is it a political issue and some countries are out to make money and therefore not concerned about the health of others? Is it a leadership of our countries that is responsible?
 
Professor Christoph Lubbert, a senior researcher from Leipzig University Hospital, Germany said that global health challenges are due to multi-drug resistance in the treatment of illnesses. In many countries such as Uganda, people suffer from more than one disease. Treatment is given for the different illnesses and medication is taken at the same time. Many medicines taken together have an impact and form resistance in the body. There is constant use of antibiotics for treatment but at times, patients mistake the prescribed doses and the sickness does not go away. Doctors are forced to change the drugs of one illness which combine with drugs of another sickness which also form resistance in the body.
 
Dr. Christine Sekaggya-Wiltshire (Standing Left)’s PhD thesis work received international acclaim, with a 2018 New York Times piece and the Stephen Lawn TB/HIV Research Leadership Award.UZH granted her PhD the status of Anerkennung
 
Dr. Christine Sekaggya-Wiltshire elaborated on drug resistance in TB patients. She studied her PhD at Makerere University and was also recognized by the UZH and given the joint (Mak-UZH) supervision arrangements for the degree. She said that, drug resistance was a result of several factors namely; poor adherence to medical prescriptions, late presentation whereby patients report to health facilities late when then sickness is advanced, drug interactions (many drugs at the same time) leading to resistance; some patients are too weak to tolerate drugs taken for a long period of time such as anti-TB drugs. There was a general feeling that drug concentrations manufactured for developing countries are low compared to those manufactured for developed countries. The drugs do not completely cure but provide relief to patients.
 
The Migration ‘Boma’ (fireside chat) was opened by Prof. Marina Carobbio, President of the Swiss National Council and moderated by Mr. Rudolf Kung, a renowned BBC journalist. It had four panelists discussing migration of humans and animals and its effects on health. Dr. Zahara Nampewo, Director of the Human Rights and Peace Centre (HURIPEC), School of Law discussed migration at the intracontinental level between countries starting in Africa mostly due to armed conflict.
 
Dr. Zahara Nampewo, Director of the Human Rights and Peace Centre (HURIPEC), School of Law (Standing Left), contributes to the discussion during the Migration Boma
 
Uganda is a hosting around one million refugees from South Sudan, DR Congo, Burundi, Somalia, Rwanda, Eritrea, Sudan and Ethiopia. The Government of Uganda’s open door policy is a disadvantage to the local population whose land is freely given out to the refugees without compensation. The health care facilities in the refugee camps are far better than what the locals have for their communities. This creates tension and conflicts between the local communities and the refugees. Refugees normally move with their animals which bring diseases to animals in the host communities. Since migration is not about to end, it will remain a future global health challenge.
 
Prof Beatrice Beck Schimmet, the Vice President of Medicine at the University of Zurich, Prof. Marina Carobbio, the President of thw Swiss National Council participated at the closing of the event. Both highlighetd the the importnace of discussing these complex topics so that, together we can confront them. The dialogue at the tea breaks, lunch and coffee breaks was the highlight of the event.
 
Participants had the opportunity to engage with collegues from different fields and expressed interest in working together in the future. It is evident that global health challenges call for global solutions and what unites us is greater than what separates us. Future global health challenges can only be propoerly addressed in an international framework, in which everyone; NGOs, politicians, scientists, pharmaceutical companies and scholars need to operate with a global vision and awareness.
 
Written by Martha Muwanguzi
International Office, Makerere University
 

Mark Wamai

Continue Reading

General

Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University encouraged to participate in philanthropy work

Published

on

Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala addressing the gathering on behalf of DVC F&A, Prof. Ireeta. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

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.

A cross-section of scholar-alumni, listening attentively during the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
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. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
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. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
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. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
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. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
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. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
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. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
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. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
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.

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

First-Year Student’s Joining Instructions 2025/26

Published

on

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

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

Transform Ivory Tower into Impact Tower – First-ever CEOs’ Summit

Published

on

Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga (4th Right), Hon. Balaam Barugahara (4th Left), Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Rear: 3rd Left), and Mr. George Turyamureeba (3rd Right) with Members of Management and stakeholders at the First Ever Alumni CEOs Summit on 2nd September 2025. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University, through the Makerere University Convocation (MUC), has hosted the first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit on Tuesday, 2nd September 2025. The historic event brought together alumni, Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), and stakeholders in a distinguished assembly aimed at re-imagining the university’s role in national and continental transformation.

The Convocation, which serves as a critical forum for foresight and life-transformational dialogue, unveiled five transformative points carefully crafted to transform Makerere from a symbolic “ivory tower” into an “impact tower” that influences the country and the world more than ever before.

Government Endorsement and Call to Action

The Chief Guest, Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, was represented at the event by the 3rd Deputy Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga. She conveyed warm greetings from H.E. the President of Uganda, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister.

She commended the Convocation for convening under the summit under a significant and timely theme: “Exploring the Opportunities for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Value Creation for Accelerated Socio-Economic Integration and Development of Sub-Saharan Africa.”

Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga.

She described the summit as not just a gathering but a journey and a call to action, urging academia, industry, and government to align efforts with Uganda’s and Africa’s transformation priorities.

Framing her remarks around the World Bank’s guiding principles—Trust, Humility, Inclusion, Collaboration, and Knowledge—she explained:

  • “Trust must be built between government, academia, and business… the gathering reflects the trust in CEOs and investors to walk this journey together.”
  • “Humility requires listening and learning, recognizing that no single institution has all the answers.”
  • “Inclusion reminds us that no youth, woman, or marginalized group should be left behind in transformation.”
  • “Collaboration is the currency of progress, necessary for solving complex challenges across sectors.”
  • “Knowledge remains our greatest asset, with Makerere University demonstrating its importance in moving from ivory towers to communities to transform lives.”
Current and Former Guild Leaders including Mr. Wilbrod Owor (CEO, Uganda Bankers Association) pose for a group photo with dignitaries. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Current and Former Guild Leaders including Mr. Wilbrod Owor (CEO, Uganda Bankers Association) pose for a group photo with dignitaries.

She then unveiled a “massive transformation purpose”, commissioning five working teams led by CEOs and investors. The teams, nominated lead persons, and their respective objectives included:

  1. From Ivory Tower to Impact Tower – Dr. Patricia Ojangole (UDB) with Patrick Ayota (NSSF), translating research into market-ready innovations.
  2. Diaspora Dividend vs Brain Drain – Jennifer Bamuturaki (Uganda Airlines) with Michael Mugabi (Housing Finance Bank), harnessing diaspora capital, skills, and mentorship.
  3. Intergenerational Knowledge Bridges – Fabian Kasi (Centenary Bank) with Ajay Kumar (Quality Chemicals), institutionalizing mentorship and reverse mentorship.
  4. Climate and Infrastructure Leadership – Proscovia Nabbanja (UNOC) with Silver Mugisha (NWSC), anchoring research in energy security, green transition, and infrastructure.
  5. Pan-African Digital and AI Advantage – Sylvia Mulinge (MTN Uganda) with Mumba Kalifungwa (Stanbic Bank), positioning Makerere as Africa’s digital and AI hub.

She pledged full government support, noting that the teams would convene in the Office of the President. “This summit is not ceremonial but a covenant,” she stressed.

The Minister’s Reflection

Hon. Balaam Barugahara, State Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development in charge of Children and Youth Affairs, emphasized that the summit was not a party but a process of transformation.

Hon. Balaam Barugahara gestures. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Hon. Balaam Barugahara gestures.

Drawing from personal experience, he recalled joining Makerere in 2000 and completing his degree in seven years due to balancing work, hustling for fees, and studying. He praised the university’s role in shaping his success and highlighted recent developments such as the renovation of Mary Stuart Hall and revamping the Main and Western gates, as milestones that have enhanced Makerere’s image. He equally applauded the curbing of staff and student unrest.

He noted that the summit aimed to facilitate networking, mentorship, career opportunities, and university development, signalling collective commitment to Uganda’s transformation.

Council’s Vision: A Legacy Re-imagined

Representing Makerere University Council Chairperson Ms. Lorna Magara, Prof. Sarah Ssali described the summit as a “historic alumni CEO investor round table” and a reaffirmation of Makerere’s role in Africa’s development. She described the university as a “cradle of leadership, innovation and resilience”, noting that the gathering’s objectives included fostering partnerships, showcasing research, launching a fundraising drive, and strengthening alumni engagement. Prof. Ssali emphasized that alumni relations must go beyond occasional financial contributions during events, to continuous communication and genuine relationships. “This summit marks the start of a journey, not just an isolated event,” she reechoed.

Prof. Sarah Ssali. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali.

Vice Chancellor on Unlocking Makerere’s Potential

Reflecting on the theme of his bid for the Office of Vice Chancellor, “Unlocking the Potential of Makerere University,” Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe noted that while many only celebrate the absence of strikes, behind the calmness is a vibrant transformation.

He highlighted Makerere’s alumni strength, with over 20,000 CEOs globally, and underscored their contributions to Uganda’s economy, governance, health, sports, and research. “What would Uganda do without Makerere?” he pondered. Prof. Nawangwe quickly added that the moment was ripe for Makerere to collaborate more with diaspora alumni so as to tap into fast-evolving niches such as blockchain.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

Convocation’s Strategic Role

MUC Chairperson CPA George Mugabi Turyamureeba outlined the Convocation’s mission to support the university’s growth and well-being. He highlighted innovations such as the Convocation House, the annual luncheon for first-class graduates and their parents, mentorship programs, and the MUC SACCO as initiatives that his team had established and promoted during the term so far. The Chairperson nevertheless urged the CEOs present to enable the Convocation have greater impact collaborating on existing as well as envisaged projects such as the Convocation Innovation Centre.

CPA George Turyamureeba. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
CPA George Turyamureeba.

Adding her voice, Vice Chairperson Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto urged participants—described as “movers and shakers” of Uganda’s economy—to ensure that their decisions today would be celebrated by future generations.

CPA George Turyamureeba (Right) and Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto (2nd Right) and members of the Convocation Team. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
CPA George Turyamureeba (Right) and Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto (2nd Right) and members of the Convocation Team.

Keynote Address: The Journey’s Just Began

In his keynote, Dr. Peter Kimbowa, Founder and Board Chair of the CEO Summit and Makerere alumnus, congratulated his alma mater on the initiative and reaffirmed the Convocation’s strategic role.

He emphasized that the Round Table Summit should not be seen as a one-time event but as an ongoing journey, echoing American Football Player Jalen Hurts’ mantra: “There’s no arrival. Only the journey.” Dr. Kimbowa defined the Convocation as a community of leaders, alumni, and faculty united by heritage and vision. He described it as a bridge connecting:

  • The past to the future,
  • Business and industry to academia, and
  • Learning to market needs.
Dr. Peter Kimbowa. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Peter Kimbowa.

He stressed that the Convocation’s ultimate goal was to transform Makerere into a self-sustaining engine of innovation, opportunity, and national transformation. Drawing on corporate insights, he challenged participants to always ask “what is the next opportunity?” and warned against complacency. He unpacked the massive transformation purpose structured around five working teams which MUC has developed, whereby corporate chief executives from Uganda are called upon to lead collaboration with the university. He highlighted the importance of mobilizing talent to connect with successful Ugandan alumni, underscoring the need for local CEOs to harness talent in the diaspora. He emphasized deliberate action, mobilization of global alumni talent, and collaboration between CEOs and the university to sustain transformation

Members of Management from Left to Right: Mr. Paul Agaba-Procurement and Disposal Unit, Mr. Simon Kizito-Deputy University Secretary, Prof. Robert Wamala-Director Research Innovations and Partnerships, and Prof. Ruth Nalumaga-University Librarian. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Members of Management from Left to Right: Mr. Paul Agaba-Procurement and Disposal Unit, Mr. Simon Kizito-Deputy University Secretary, Prof. Robert Wamala-Director Research Innovations and Partnerships, and Prof. Ruth Nalumaga-University Librarian.

Panel Discussions and Triple Helix Framework

The day’s panel discussion featured Mr. Samuel Mwogeza (Executive Director, Stanbic Bank), Mr. Peter Sibukule (Headmaster, Busoga College Mwiri), Mr. Clovice Bright Irumba (Petroleum Authority of Uganda), and Ms. Grace Cherotich.

Mr. Mwogeza stressed the need to commercialize university prototypes and ideas. He explained that banks like Stanbic use their networks to strengthen innovators’ business cases, preparing them for market entry. Mr. Sibukule on the other hand called for transformation of mindsets right from secondary school level so that students are well primed to communicate, collaborate, uphold integrity and good work attitudes over qualifications in the marketplace. Mr. Irumba highlighted efforts by the PAU to create more opportunities for Ugandan entities to get involved in the oil and gas sector thanks to gaps highlighted by a study undertaken by the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC). Ms. Cherotich on the other hand invited CEOs to take interest in research outputs of the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) and reassured the audience of the Convocation’s readiness to provide a trusted platform for engagement with industry.

Panelists from Left to Right: Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto, Mr. Samuel Mwogeza, Mr. Peter Sibukule and Mr. Clovice Bright Irumba with Moderator-Dr. William Tayeebwa. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Panelists from Left to Right: Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto, Mr. Samuel Mwogeza, Mr. Peter Sibukule and Mr. Clovice Bright Irumba with Moderator-Dr. William Tayeebwa.

Contributing to the day’s discussion, Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo, Executive Director of the Uganda Vice Chancellors’ Forum (UVF), reminded the audience of the “Triple Helix” model and it’s underlying policy frameworks that in the recent past guided collaboration between universities, government, and the private sector. He observed Uganda’s lack of a robust framework, and called for policies that tie tax incentives to university support by corporations and other business entities.

Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo.

Proceedings

The inaugural edition of the summit was moderated by Dr. Tayeebwa William from the Department of Journalism and Communication who doubles as Managing Editor Makerere University Press and Dr. Viola Karungi from the Department of Performing Arts and Film (PAF).

Dr. Viola Karungi (Left) and Dr. William Tayeebwa (Right). Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Viola Karungi (Left) and Dr. William Tayeebwa (Right).

The PAF team took charge of the leading the anthems and day’s entertainment, which included a poetic presentation of the Makerere University Anthem.

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

Continue Reading

Trending