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H.E. Elin Østebø Johansen Applauds Longstanding Mak-UiB Collaboration
The Ambassador of Norway to Uganda H.E. Elin Østebø Johansen has highlighted the need to increase support towards development of the African Education System. This was at the 30years celebrations of the Makerere University (Mak)-University of Bergen (UiB) Collaboration that were held on 7th November 2019 at the CTF 2 Auditorium, Makerere University.
In 1988 Makerere University entered into a partnership with the University of Bergen to enhance academic activities through joint research, teaching, staff and students exchange programs, knowledge and information sharing. Over the years, the collaboration has successfully registered tremendous achievements in capacity building, knowledge and information generation and technological developments.
Speaking at the colorful event, the Ambassador said that supporting the education systems is an investment in economic and social development among countries. “In his Address to Parliament on 26 April last year, the then Norwegian Minister of Development, Nikoli Astrup, said, ‘Education is the foundation for all other development. It is the key to finding employment and to being able to lead an independent life with different options and opportunities.’”
She urged academic institutions to align their objectives and academic curriculum to the UN Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education. H.E Elin Østebø Johansen highlighted the tremendous support the Norwegian government is extending to the Government of Uganda to improve higher learning and promote vocation and technical skills training.
“In addition to basic education, we fully recognize the importance of higher education. Well trained citizens are needed in all areas of the economy in order for Uganda to develop and prosper. The Ugandan labor market needs to sustain industrial development, high quality tourism and a self-sustained and diversified agricultural sector,” she said.
The Ambassador acknowledged the long-standing and successful collaboration between Makerere University and the University of Bergen. The nature and structure of the collaboration has over the years evolved from one-way scholarship programme to extensive partnership projects under the Norwegian Programme for Capacity Development in Higher Education and Research for Development (NORHED) with multiple partners. She noted that the relationships developed through these collaborations have often continued long after the projects have ended, which is an indication of strong ties, friendships and commitment by all parties.
“The Makerere-University of Bergen 30years celebration is proof of successful partnership and academic collaboration between Norway and Uganda. I am confident that this great partnership between Makerere University and the University of Bergen will continue for another 30 years, to the benefit of the young generations both in Uganda and Norway,” she concluded.
The Pro-Rector University of Bergen, Prof. Margareth Hagen described the Mak-Bergen 30year collaboration as a historic relationship of intensive research and scientific competence. “Throughout our history, the University of Bergen has always sought to collaborate with and befriend universities that are defined by their quality work and research. And, the collaboration between University of Bergen and Makerere University is an example of this,” she said.
According to Prof. Hagen, Universities are institutions that not only keep historical records of societal development but also enable citizens to develop tools that address the great challenges of the time. Through creative and free thinking the institutions have engaged in research and innovate solutions for a better future.
She mentioned that Makerere University and University of Bergen are both pillars of peace and stability in their respective societies. She attributed this to their ability to plan, strategize and think in the long term.
“We influence and learn from each other and that has indeed meant a lot for the many students who travel between our countries for their studies. Today we celebrate the benefits of the long-lasting partnerships, dialogue and open minded research, developed over the many years,” she stated.
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe in his remarks on the occasion recognized the late Prof. Endre Lillethun and his team who started the journey of the Makerere– University of Bergen Collaboration in the 1988.
He extended sincere appreciation to the Royal Norwegian Government for the support rendered to capacity building at Makerere University under the Norwegian Programme for Development, Research and Education (NUFU) phases I, II and III between 1991 and 2011. Prof. Nawangwe also acknowledged the ongoing support to collaborative efforts under the Norwegian Programme for Capacity Development in Higher Education and Research for Development (NORHED).
“As a result of the Norwegian Government support, hundreds of students and staff have received funding towards their education development. For example, data shared from our Norwegian brothers and sisters shows that the University of Bergen alone has trained over 300 Masters and 150 PhDs for Uganda. This is by no means a small achievement,” said the Vice Chancellor.
“Similarly, under NORHED (2013 – 2020) Makerere University is involved in 11 projects with partner institutions in the North and South. These are in the thematic areas of; Pediatric Health, Anthropology, Aquatic and Environmental Health, Water Management, Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation and Weather Information Management. Other areas include; Health Informatics, Distance Education and Lifelong Learning, Interdisciplinary MPhil and PhD Studies among others,” added Prof Nawangwe.
The Vice Chancellor thanked the Organising Committee led by Prof. J.Y.T Mugisha for organising a successful ceremony to mark 30 years of Mak-UiB collaboration.
The celebrations were enriched by a keynote address on “The role of inter institutional partnerships in attaining education for all and National Development” delivered by Prof. Edward Kirumira. He currently serves as Director of the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS) and was the former Coordinator of the Mak-UiB programme at Makerere University.
Prof. Kirumira noted that the future of African Countries is heavily dependent on the future of African Universities. He further argued that the universities’ future is based on successful cooperation in the increasingly competitive global arena. He therefore mentioned that universities’ research should focus on training concerned scholars with a purpose to help community and not just advance themselves.
Discussing institutionary interdisciplinary and interdepartmental collaborations, Prof. Kirumira noted the need for universities to develop national curricula with long term goals. He also mentioned the need for universities to develop strong internal networks when he said, “universities need to be networked from within. Even when they seek regional and international networks, it is the internal cohesion that comes across. You must therefore bond internally for you to take the university to greater heights.”
Delivering her remarks, the Senior Advisor, Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD), Jeanette Da Silva congratulated Mak and UiB upon the momentous 30year collaboration, noting that Education including Higher Education is one of the NORAD’s funding priorities.
She also took the opportunity to announce that NORHED II will be launched in February 2020 as a framework to perpetuate North-South collaborations for more years to come. The Senior Advisor noted that funding is not only about capacity building but also capacity sharing and prayed that NORHED II will contribute to the formation of strong, mutually beneficial North-South relationships.
Other activities that preceded the celebrations included; a plenary session on the Role of the Youth in Achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: A Focus On SDG 4 “Ensure Inclusive and Equitable Quality Education and Promote Lifelong Learning Opportunities for All”. It was organized by the Uganda-Norway Alumni Network (UGNAN) in partnership with the Mak-UiB collaboration Office and Norway UiB alumni.
During the Plenary session, participants discussed the SDG4 status in Uganda and the actions put in place to achieve the goal by 2030. Participants reflected on how the SDGs are calling for the transformation of ideas and how the country’s education institutions need to be transformed in line with SDG 4 goal especially for the vulnerable groups such as girls and People With Disabilities (PWDs).
Article by Proscovia Nabatte, Mak Public Relations Office.
General
Makerere University Leaders Call for Excellence in Research and Supervision as Academic Staff and PhD Students Receive Certificates
By Moses Lutaaya
Kampala, 15 December 2025 — Makerere University on Monday held a reflective and inspiring Certificate Award Ceremony at the CTF 2 Auditorium , Yusuf Lule to award academic staff who completed the Graduate Supervision and Mentorship Course and PhD Students who successfully undertook the University’s compulsory cross-cutting doctoral courses. The event was presided over by the Deputy Vice Chancellor – Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali.
The ceremony honored the efforts and achievements of 58 academic staff members, 39 men and 19 women from various colleges including CEDAT, CAES, CEES, COVAB and COBAMS, who completed a rigorous three-week Graduate Supervision and Mentorship programme.
Additionally, PhD students were recognized for completing cross-cutting courses in Philosophy of Methods, Scholarly Writing and Communication, and Advanced Research Methods.
In her keynote remarks, Prof. Sarah Ssali, the Deputy Vice Chancellor–Academic Affairs, delivered a message of encouragement and renewed commitment to research excellence at Makerere University.
“It is both an honor and a privilege to be here today to celebrate a significant academic milestone, the completion of the PhD Cross-Cutting Courses by our students and the award of Supervision Certificates to our academic staff.”
“Your completion of this course is not just a personal achievement, but a critical contribution to strengthening the research and mentoring capacity of Makerere University.”
To the PhD students, Prof. Ssali offered warm congratulations and encouragement. “These courses have equipped you with essential tools to conduct high-quality, ethical research and to engage with complex academic questions. This achievement reflects your hard work, intellectual growth, and commitment to excellence.”
She reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment to research advancement. “As a University, we remain deeply committed to fostering a culture of research excellence. We will continue to invest in both our students and our staff, ensuring that we uphold the highest standards in research and academic supervision.”
The Director of Graduate Training, Prof. Julius Kikooma, challenged the PhD students to approach research with urgency, intentionality, and a clear sense of purpose.
“Completing the crosscutting courses in Philosophy of Methods, Advanced Research Methods, and Scholarly Writing and Communication has not been an easy task. However, the certificate alone is not the end goal. Don’t simply compile these certificates. Make them meaningful.”
Prof. Kikooma emphasized that the value of the courses lies in applying the knowledge gained. “These certificates give you the foundation knowledge. The question now is: Can we see the application of that knowledge in your different fields?”
He further urged doctoral students to begin producing serious academic work now, not at the end of their studies. “If you are becoming someone to be listened to, start now. It means the course is becoming useful. Write about issues that speak to societal challenges. Produce thinking pieces. Produce better outputs. “Look for low-lying fruits that can make your PhD journey more exciting and impactful.”
Prof. Kikooma also reminded students that while the PhD journey is shared by the academic community, its weight is uniquely felt by the candidates. “Your PhD journey is ours as a group. But you feel the heat. Speak to us so we understand your challenges. “You cannot be here for more than three years. Why are some of you still here? Is the journey heavy? How can we support you to complete it?” He asked.
He encouraged students to build thought leadership through the PhD Forum, adding that the forum is a strong voice for the students. A PhD is automatic leadership in the knowledge domain. Why doesn’t the PhD Forum come up with periodic writings that reflect what communities are experiencing? Start now so that by the time you finish the course, you hit the ground running.”
The Ag. Director of the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (CTLS), Dr. Dorothy Ssebowa Kyagaba, gave a message to the academic staff who completed the Graduate Supervision and Mentorship Course, speaking with admiration for their dedication and high level of engagement.
“I congratulate all the academic staff who have completed the three-week Graduate Supervision and Mentorship Course. Your commitment, hard work, and enthusiasm have been evident throughout the training.”
She described the course as a cornerstone of Makerere’s commitment to strengthening graduate supervision. “This course is a key component in Makerere University’s drive to strengthen the quality of graduate training, research supervision, innovation, and strategic partnerships.”
She highlighted the thematic richness of the training; covering Knowledge Production Perspectives, Supervisory styles, Supervisory meetings and conversation skills, Research Ethics, Intercultural supervision and diversity, Scholarly writing and feedback as well as Examination processes and Doctoral Viva. She expressed gratitude to the Directorate of Graduate Training led by Prof. Kikooma, and to Prof. Ssali for providing leadership that advances graduate training across Makerere University.
General
Makerere University Hosts EU Delegation to Review Institutional Engagement in EU Cooperation Programmes
Makerere University today hosted a delegation of members from the European Union (EU) for a high-level engagement aimed at reviewing the University’s involvement in EU cooperation programmes. The meeting focused on the linkages between the Erasmus+ Programme, Makerere University’s internationalization strategy, and the related institutional management and coordination structures.
The delegation was received by Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) Professor Sarah Ssali, provided an overview of how EU cooperation programmes are coordinated across different offices within the University. She highlighted Makerere’s integrated institutional approach to managing EU-funded initiatives, emphasizing collaboration among academic units, administrative offices, and support departments to ensure effective implementation and sustainability of projects.
Prof. Sylivia Antonia Nakimera Nanyonga-Tamusuza presented an overview of how grants are handled at Makerere University, with particular emphasis on the role of the Grants Management and Support (GAMSU) Office. She explained that the office provides end-to-end support for externally funded projects, including proposal development, grant negotiation, compliance, financial accountability, reporting, and capacity building for project teams. The GAMSU Office plays a critical role in ensuring transparency, efficiency, and compliance with donor requirements, including those of the European Union.
The University Secretary, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, addressed the meeting and outlined how the University’s resources are managed to support academic programmes and international cooperation initiatives. He further explained the role of the Office of the University Secretary in supporting students, including policy oversight, governance, student welfare, administrative coordination, and ensuring that institutional systems effectively support teaching, research, and international partnerships.
Ms. Betty Nabisubi from the International Relations Office (IRO) provided a comprehensive overview of how Erasmus+ programmes are coordinated within her office. She explained that the IRO supports Erasmus students and staff from the time they arrive at Makerere University until their departure. This includes orientation, immigration support, accommodation guidance, academic coordination, cultural integration, and continuous student support. She also highlighted additional services offered by the office, such as partnership development, mobility coordination, and facilitation of international collaborations.
Following the institutional presentations, project representatives were allocated 30 minutes for structured discussions with EU project contact persons. The session began with short presentations focusing on project results, impact, and sustainability, followed by an interactive discussion and question-and-answer session. The representatives presented their projects clearly and confidently, demonstrating strong outcomes and long-term impact aligned with both Makerere University and EU cooperation objectives.
Overall, the engagement was highly productive and fruitful, providing a valuable platform for knowledge sharing, reflection on best practices, and strengthening collaboration between Makerere University and the European Union. The discussions reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment to effective internationalization, accountable project management, and sustained partnerships under EU cooperation programmes.
General
From Knowledge to Impact: Empowering Youth Leaders and Young Women with Transformative Leadership Skills
By JNLC Team
On 4th December 2025, more than 70 participants gathered at Mountains of the Moon University (MMU) in Fort Portal for a three-day comprehensive leadership training targeting youth, young women, and local council leaders.
Organised by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the training aimed to strengthen practical leadership skills and nurture a new generation of community-centered, ethical, and solution-oriented leaders.
The first day introduced participants to foundational themes such as servant leadership, the meaning of power in leadership, self-leadership, emotional intelligence, mental well-being, and effective communication. Through these sessions, participants gained practical tools to engage and influence communities responsibly, mobilize resources, and contribute effectively to sustainable development.
Honouring Nyerere’s Legacy of Transformative Leadership
In her remarks, Dr. Nansozi K. Muwanga, Executive Director of JNLC, urged young leaders from higher education institutions across Uganda to embrace their central role in shaping the country’s future. She stressed that Uganda’s developmental trajectory—and that of the wider East African region—will be determined by empowered, ethical, and visionary youth.
Dr. Muwanga reminded participants that the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre draws inspiration from the leadership values of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, who championed youth as drivers of Africa’s development. Established in 2018 by H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni as a Presidential Initiative hosted by Makerere University and the Uganda Management Institute, JNLC continues this legacy by equipping young Africans with the intellectual, moral, and practical leadership skills required in a fast-changing world.
Expanding Impact Through the JNLC–UNDP Youth Leadership Programme
Dr. Muwanga highlighted that since 2021, the JNLC–UNDP Leadership Training Programme has empowered more than 700 youth leaders from Uganda and beyond. The programme cultivates a growing network of community-centered changemakers capable of influencing governance and driving sustainable development.
To address challenges faced by alumni—such as limited visibility, resource constraints, and weak mentorship—JNLC launched the Alumni Impact Activation Strategy. The initiative supports alumni-led projects aligned with UNDP’s G4D priorities through mentorship, empowerment, and visibility. This approach amplifies our investment in Uganda’s youth and ensures that leadership development translates into sustainable solutions in climate resilience, women’s economic empowerment, and digital innovation,” she noted.
Youth at the Heart of Africa’s Development
Reflecting on Africa’s demographic landscape, Dr. Muwanga noted that a youthful population presents both immense opportunity and profound responsibility. Realising this potential requires intentional nurturing of leaders who value justice, unity, ethical conduct, and collaborative governance.
“This is the aspiration that guides our work at JNLC,” she affirmed. “We aim to equip young people with the skills to think critically, lead responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s development and Africa’s broader ambitions.”
“You Are Today’s Leaders” — Message from Mountains of the Moon University
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Pius Coxwell Achanga, Mrs. Roselyne Ssali—the Dean of Students—affirmed the university’s strong commitment to cultivating ethical, capable, and community-oriented leaders.
She emphasized the value of inter-institutional collaboration, noting that leadership thrives on shared learning and collective growth. She encouraged participants to engage actively, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.
Addressing the youth directly, Mrs. Ssali underscored that leadership is not a distant possibility but a present responsibility.
“You are not here by mistake,” she said. “The saying that you are ‘tomorrow’s leaders’ does not apply. You are today’s leaders, and that is something we cannot take for granted.”
She commended the JNLC–UNDP collaboration for expanding leadership opportunities and equipping young people with practical, real-world skills.
Leadership, Intellect, Capacity, Health, and Safety — Insights from the RCC
Officially opening the training, Ms. Asuman Nasike, Resident City Commissioner of Fort Portal City, shared her inspiring journey from Youth Councillor to RCC. She encouraged participants to treat every leadership role as a “nursery bed” for growth and reminded them that leadership is driven by intellect and capacity—not age or physical size.
“In your roles as local, youth, and women leaders, remember that leadership is defined by capacity, not size. It is about the mind, not the stature. I may be small in size, yet I lead this city. Let my example prove to you that young people can lead and make a difference,” she said.
She highlighted essential leadership qualities: integrity to earn trust, effective communication through feedback, leading by example, decisiveness in difficult moments, and resilience in the face of setbacks. She also emphasized personal well-being, responsible health practices, and surrounding oneself with mentors and peers who inspire growth.
Learning from Nyerere’s Leadership Ideals
Drawing from the life and leadership of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, Mr. Ivan Ssegawa Sebastian, former EAC Youth Ambassador to Uganda, outlined enduring values that shaped Nyerere’s leadership: human dignity, collective responsibility, unity and cultural identity, and service above self.
These ideals, he noted, remain essential foundations for ethical and people-centered leadership today.
Principles of Servant Leadership
Leadership trainer and clinical psychologist Mr. Ronald Ssaazi guided participants through the principles of servant leadership, drawing insights from leaders like Nyerere, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr., and Gamal Abdel Nasser.
He emphasized that leadership begins with self-leadership—self-reflection, self-regulation, and deliberate goal-setting. Quoting John Maxwell’s famous line, “Leadership is influence—nothing more, nothing less,” he reminded participants that they must influence themselves before they can influence others. “You cannot claim to be a leader if no one wants to follow you. Leadership begins when you influence people through your direction, ideas, and example—and that influence must start with self-leadership,” he stressed.
Mr. Ssaazi highlighted that servant leadership is rooted in service—lifting others, meeting them where they are, and helping them grow. He underscored the importance of character, emotional intelligence, meaningful relationships, and consistent action.
He also shared the “Three R’s” framework—Requirements, Returns, and Rewards—encouraging participants to focus on high-impact actions and remain motivated as they pursue purposeful leadership.
Emotional Intelligence & Mental Wellness for Effective Leadership
Dr. Gardner Herbert Rwakiseta, Programme Coordinator at JNLC, underscored that effective leadership is impossible without mental and emotional balance. He explained that clarity, creativity, and inner peace form the foundation of impactful leadership.
Using a powerful analogy, he noted:
“A smartphone may look perfect on the outside, but without a functioning battery, it cannot operate.” He likened mental health to a leader’s battery—indispensable to performance. Dr. Gardner explained that mental wellness is more than the absence of illness; it determines how leaders think, relate, and make decisions. He outlined common mental health challenges and their symptoms and provided practical tools for maintaining emotional balance, including exercise, sleep hygiene, healthy relationships, journaling, and setting digital boundaries.
On digital discipline he advised:
“The small screens were not designed to control you. Manage distractions by limiting unnecessary notifications and practicing intentional use of technology.”
The Power of Effective Communication
Mr. Henry Kasacca, Director of Dialogue and Democracy, emphasized that communication is at the heart of leadership. His session equipped participants with public-speaking skills, active listening, strategies for giving and receiving feedback, and tips for crafting impactful elevator pitches.
He reminded participants that public speaking is not merely addressing a crowd—it is connecting with people, informing them, and motivating them to act. “Preparation, positive non-verbal communication, and confidence are key. Knowing your audience, understanding the purpose of your speech, and structuring your message ensure that it resonates,” he explained.
He noted that leaders often have only a minute to capture attention, stressing the importance of clarity, relatability, and confidence. He also emphasized constructive feedback as an essential tool for growth.
The Meaning of Power in Leadership
Mr. David Nyaribi, Leadership and Governance Specialist at ActionAid International, emphasized that leadership is not defined by position but by the ability to influence, mobilize, and transform communities.
He distinguished authority from power, noting that while authority is granted, power—knowledge, confidence, action—is accessible to everyone.
He outlined four essential types of power:
- Power Over – traditional authority
- Power To – capacity to act and implement
- Power Within – inner confidence and resilience
- Power With – collective strength through collaboration
Mr. Nyaribi urged participants to use power responsibly and be mindful of who they grant influence over them. He also explained the different spaces, levels, and sources of power, from households to global diplomacy, and highlighted the difference between mobilizing (short-term energy) and organizing (long-term structure). “Mobilizing gets people to the table; organizing makes the table productive,” he noted.
Youth Voices: Picking Up the Droplets of Leadership
Bringing a youth perspective, Mr. Ivan Hurira, Speaker of the Regional Youth Parliament, shared the story of a brave hummingbird dropping water on a burning forest, insisting, “I am doing the little I can.” He likened this to the role of young Ugandans—small but consistent actions can spark meaningful change.
“When the forest of Uganda is burning, we, the young people, can do the little we can,” he said.
He encouraged participants to treat the knowledge and skills gained during the training as droplets of leadership—resources they should carry back to their communities to contribute to transformation.
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