General
Prof. Senteza Kajubi Lecture Re-awakens Debate on Quality Education
The Second Professor William Senteza Kajubi Memorial Lecture was yet another opportunity for the family, friends and educationists from all over Uganda and beyond to celebrate the life of this gallant alumnus and career teacher. Held in the Central Teaching Facility 2 (CTF 2) Auditorim, Makerere University on Thursday 14th November 2019, the Lecture was organised by the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) with support from friends and the family of the late Professor William Senteza Kajubi.
Delivering the keynote address on the theme, "Fostering the Quality of Education in Uganda" the Vice Chancellor, Uganda Christian University (UCU) Rev. Canon Dr. John Senyonyi expressed his joy at being chosen to deliver the Second Memorial Lecture in honour of a man he first met as an S.5 student at King’s College Budo in 1973.
“Prof. Senteza Kajubi later on become my Vice Chancellor at Makerere University, where I returned in 1978 to teach in the Department of Mathematics” he added.
Rev. Canon Senyonyi’s lecture was insightful and holistic as it tackled the subject of quality right from pre-primary level to higher tertiary education institutions. It regularly posed questions that provoked members of the audience to ponder, and was full of quotes from fellow educationists, philosophers and world leaders.
One of these was from the President John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address of 1961, “And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.”
His resounding call at the end of each discourse on a level of education was the need for Government to step in and regulate the seemingly ‘runaway’ establishment of institutions. In particular, he noted that “Government should take a keen interest in Pre-Primary education… setting up an independent institution to handle the regulation of Pre-Primary Education will ensure quality right from the start.”
Dr. Senyonyi explained that learners at this stage are very susceptible to bias and any bad experience that causes them to detest going to school could stay with them the rest of their academic life. This, he noted, is much harder to undo as the student advances, hence the need to ensure quality right from the foundational stages.
The discourse on Higher Tertiary Education is where the need for better quality came to roost. Here, Dr. Senyonyi started on a poignant note saying “Higher Education might not be for all and yet the development of our country cannot do without it…”
He discussed the mismatch between the increasing numbers of graduates who cannot find jobs and the job market that cannot absorb qualified ones owing to their lack of practical skills. The Keynote speaker in this case proposed the need to establish a network of incubation centres, where learners ought to spend considerable time honing their ability to translate the theory learnt in class into practical skills.
The presence of strong regulatory bodies in any industry is one of the guarantors of good quality outputs. Dr. Senyonyi in this case called for the need to strengthen the education regulatory bodies by funding them adequately. He noted that this would be the only way to ensure that these bodies are able to carry out their work autonomously and effectively, political interference notwithstanding.
Touching on the sensitive subject of moonlighting by lecturers, Dr. Senyonyi shared that “it is a reality today that universities are sharing full-time staff.” He attributed this to the lack of a critical mass of qualified lecturers and the absence of a proper tracking mechanism. The UCU Vice Chancellor therefore called for the need to establish a database of all academic staff by which they can be monitored and accredited.
The evolution of technology and its effect on teaching and learning was another subject that the keynote address tackled. “Higher Tertiary Education cannot ignore the need for E-learning, E-teaching, E-Libraries and other E-resources in the delivery of quality education” noted Dr. Senyonyi. He however, warned against “death of contact” as the negative consequence of e-learning. Personal contact between teachers and their students, he noted, is important in imparting other social skills useful in the job market.
Conducting prolific research without a clear strategy for dissemination is a drawback for many academic institutions and research agencies. In his now familiar style of posing questions, Dr. Senyonyi challenged his audience to reveal the conferences or other platforms through which Ugandan research institutes and bodies disseminate the findings of their work.
Funding for Higher Education Institutions is another topic whose discussion can rage on for days. Dr. Senyonyi who presides over a privately-funded institution challenged his hosts despite being a Government-funded institution, not to overly rely on this mode of funding. He instead recommended that Higher Education Institutions be supported by Government to build endowment funds, which can then be used to fund their operations.
The keynote lecture discussant Dr. David Onen, Senior Lecturer, CEES, was equally up to the task as he gave an emotional but rousing response to the keynote address. He thanked his college of recognizing Prof. William Senteza Kajubi, noting that his contribution to Uganda’s education sector cannot be ignored. The discussant therefore gave his response in the context of Prof. Senteza Kajubi’s exemplary life versus the current situation.
Dr. Onen cautioned the audience to think about the inequality that has cropped up in our schools in terms of different amounts of fees paid by schools in Kampala and those in the rural areas. He noted that this inevitably leads to a difference in the quality of education delivered in rural and urban settings, which wasn’t the case when Prof. Senteza Kajubi went to school.
“Professor Senteza Kajubi loved teaching, he loved his colleagues and his students unlike today’s teachers who are no longer dedicated” said Dr. Onen as he addressed another topic, before adding “Most teachers in Uganda today are angry people; they come to class annoyed and leave even more annoyed.”
The discussant also shared that whereas Prof. Kajubi did not attain a PhD, his writings and manuscripts portray him as a man of quality and a distinguished scholar. He added that as an Educational Administrator, Prof. Senteza Kajubi was a jolly man who knew how to cooperate with colleagues.
Dr. Onen however decried what he termed as ‘today’s generation’s loss of the sense of what true quality is’, instead settling for anything goes. “Quality education must focus on truth” he appealed. “However, people only say what they want people to hear and as a result, truth is a causality among us for several reasons” added Dr. Onen almost sorrowfully.
The discussant concluded his response by noting that none of the recommendations made by Dr. Senyonyi in his keynote address, unfortunately, were new to the audience. He nevertheless noted that we, as a country, need to do a better job of implementing the wonderful recommendations of various committees.
Responding to the day’s presentations, the Principal CEES, Prof. Fred Masagazi Masaazi reassured the audience that the content from Dr. Senyonyi’s keynote address and Dr. Onen’s response would be published so as to reach a wider audience. He added that the findings from the keynote address and recommendations from the day’s proceedings would be shared with stakeholders in the Ministry of Education and Sports.
Delivering his remarks at the lecture, the Acting Vice Chancellor and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Dr. Umar Kakumba, quoting a poem paying tribute to Professor William Senteza Kajubi following his demise, noted that “he was a candle that lit other candles”. He therefore thanked CEES, friends and Prof. Senteza Kajubi’s family for ensuring that his legacy still lives on today through events such as the Memorial lecture.
Dr. Kakumba shared that Makerere University has made great strides in training quality human resource for Uganda and the region as was shown by the diversity of alumni; some well over 60 years of age, who graced the Memorial Lecture. “Our very own Chairperson of Council is an alumna of the School of Education” he added, followed by thunderous applause and cheers from the audience.
The Acting Vice Chancellor nevertheless challenged CEES to organize more debates discussing the quality of education and topics of similar importance, especially as Makerere University prepares to celebrate 100 years of existence in 2022.
The Chief Guest at the Memorial Lecture and Chairperson of Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara in her address to the gathering thanked the University Management and CEES for organizing the Memorial Lecture and encouraged them to continue providing many similar forums where in-depth discussions that are of generational impact on society can be shared.
“I am honoured to be at this very distinguished session and discussion celebrating the life of Professor William Senteza Kajubi who was a door opener; he opened doors of opportunity for many” she said.
Mrs. Magara added that quality education is a multi-dimensional aspect that goes beyond the transference of information from teacher to student to the impartation of life. She therefore decried the current trend that celebrates the academic prowess of a few prolific candidates and not quality education.
“It saddens my heart when for weeks after the release of PLE results by UNEB, our newspapers are awash with candidates who have got 4 aggregates… what we applaud becomes the standard… can we kindly move away from the 4 aggregates to what the value of quality education is?” pondered Mrs. Magara.
The Chairperson of Council concluded her remarks by urging all teachers to ensure that they go beyond simply communicating knowledge to being the true embodiment of quality in whatever they do and the character they portray to their students.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr. Wasswa Kajubi could not help but express his gratitude to Makerere University, CEES, friends and sponsors for the spirit and effort that goes into organizing the Professor William Senteza Kajubi Memorial Lecture. Wasswa is a son, and one half of the three sets of twins that Professor William Senteza Kajubi and his wife Princess Elsie Nabaloga had, a feat that none of the offspring are yet to replicate. He nevertheless sent the audience into rapturous laughter when he added, “however, there is still hope and in the spirit of the Gayaza High School motto, we shall NEVER GIVE UP.”
Mr. Kajubi also thanked several distinguished personalities as well as all members of the audience for sparing time off their busy schedules to attend the Memorial Lecture. He concluded by thanking CEES for hosting and maintaining the bust erected in honour of Professor William Senteza Kajubi at the School of Education.
Please see Downloads for the Keynote address and Response
Article by Public Relations Office
Related article
Mak Immortalises Prof. William Senteza Kajubi
General
Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence Launches Training on Economic and Stakeholder Analysis
The Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence, housed at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University, has commenced its advanced capacity-building training on Economic and Stakeholder Analysis. This two-week program has attracted economists from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) across Uganda, emphasizing the importance of integrated investment appraisal in public sector decision-making.
The training was officially opened today by Dr. Hennery Sebukeera, representing the Permanent Secretary/Secretary to the Treasury (PSST) of the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development (MoFPED). In his remarks, Dr. Sebukeera acknowledged the collaborative efforts between MoFPED, Makerere University, and Cambridge Resources International (CRI), highlighting the program’s significance in equipping participants with expertise in evaluating the economic impacts of public projects. “This is a life changing opportunity for all of you attending this training,” Dr. Sebukeera, the Technical Adviser Budget, said.
A Platform for Excellence
Prof. Edward Bbaale, Director of the PIM Centre of Excellence and Principal of CoBAMS, expressed his gratitude to MoFPED for its financial support, which has been instrumental in sustaining the Centre’s initiatives. He also commended the participants’ resilience and commitment, as many are returning for their second phase of training following the completion of financial and risk analysis modules earlier this year.
“This advanced course blends theoretical frameworks with practical applications, enabling participants to appraise projects in critical sectors like roads, energy, water, and electricity from the perspective of the government budget and the economy,” said Prof. Bbaale.
A Collaborative Effort
The program features a robust partnership with Cambridge Resources International and Queen’s University in Canada, whose faculty members have played a pivotal role in shaping Uganda’s public investment landscape. CRI’s Executive Director, Dr. Mikhail, will personally facilitate sessions on microeconomics, economic opportunity costs, and stakeholder analysis, ensuring participants gain hands-on experience through lab sessions and case studies.
Makerere University’s Vice Chancellor and faculty were also lauded for their unwavering support in ensuring the Centre’s success, which extends beyond training to research and advisory roles for the government. The Centre recently revised the Development Committee guidelines for MoFPED and assessed project performance under Uganda’s National Development Plans.
Empowering Future Experts
Participants will receive a prestigious tripartite certificate from Makerere University, MoFPED, and Queen’s University upon completion. Prof. Bbaale urged the participants to embrace their role as ambassadors of Integrated Investment Appraisal, applying their skills to improve resource allocation and fiscal responsibility in their respective MDAs.
With a mission to enhance public investment management practices, the Centre continues to build a legacy of excellence, contributing significantly to Uganda’s socio-economic development.
By Scholars Program Communication Team
On Saturday, November 16, 2024, Little Angels Junior School, Mawotto Village, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District celebrated an inspiring, joy-filled event. These two schools were selected to receive the generosity of Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service.
At St. Charles Rwahunga Nursery and Primary School, the Scholars donated various products, including Learning Materials, Geometry sets, Sanitary towels for the girls, sportswear for the boys’ football team, and other goodies.
The Community Nursery and Primary School serves 412 pupils with severe challenges due to inadequate infrastructure. The buildings are dilapidated, there is a shortage of desks, and the classrooms are small and overcrowded. These issues need to be addressed to ensure a better student learning environment.
Mr. Alex Mugisha, the Headteacher of the School, expressed gratitude to the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation for the kind gesture they extended to his school.
“I am deeply grateful, along with the students and staff, for the generosity of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars. These materials will significantly enhance the learning environment for our pupils,” remarked Mr. Mugisha.
Mr. Nelson Ddumba, the Scholars Council Representative, encouraged the young learners at the event not to lose hope. He emphasized that regardless of their starting point, they can improve their circumstances by staying in school.
“Listen, my fellow students: do not give up. The only path to transforming your circumstances is through a steadfast commitment to your education and remaining in school. I have been in your shoes, but I pushed through and succeeded thanks to my mother’s unwavering support. Today, I proudly attend Makerere University, one of the leading institutions in Uganda. Embrace the challenge ahead and make your education your top priority!” Mr. Ddumba declared.
At Little Angels Junior School, pupils were excited to receive educational materials, reusable sanitary towels, mathematical sets, dictionaries, and textbooks for nursery to primary seven students.
Ms. Sarah Nturo, the headteacher, commended the Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University for the kind gesture.
She said the books will help the school improve its reading culture and performance.
“We are grateful to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University; we believe these books will significantly contribute to improving our pupils’ performance,” Ms. Nturo said.
Nturo also pointed out that they have challenges with the facilities and water as a school.
“Ever since we started this School, the education has improved because, in the past, parents could not allow their children to come here; instead, they would send them to the lake for fishing. But now, the children come only because they do not have somewhere to sit. We have few desks,” Nturo said.
During the visit, the pupils mesmerised the scholars with rare dance moves. The excitement did not leave the Programme Implementation team and teachers in their seats, making it a fun-filled event. The audience was left yearning for more.
Addressing the school, Mr. John Osuna, the Transition Lead at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, urged the pupils to use their school time to prepare for a bright future.
“Do not mind where you are coming from. We all started like this. Education is an equalizer. Now that you have an opportunity to study, focus on making the best out of it. Be disciplined pupils and listen to your teachers. The sky will be the limit,” Mr Osuna said.
During the event, Francis Kabuye Kaggwa, the Chairperson of the Parents Teacher Association (PTA) leadership, said that ever since the school started over 10 years back, they have never received guests who bring them gifts like how the Mastercard Foundation Scholars did.
“I think you have seen how excited the children were. We are all happy this has never happened to our school. Who are we to receive these gifts? We have challenges, but with friends like God on our side, we shall conquer,” Mr. Kabuye noted.
The Scholars’ Day of Community Service is an annual event where Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University engage in community service as a way of giving back. This initiative aims to empower vulnerable individuals in the community and contribute positively to society.
By Mak Communication Team
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, while speaking at the inaugural commemoration of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities at Makerere University has appealed to the Government to increase the number of students with disabilities on government sponsorship.
The event held on Wednesday, 13th November 2024 was organised by the Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students’ Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities and held in the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium.
The day’s theme was: “Empowering Inclusion: Breaking Barriers, Unlocking Potential”
“Students with disabilities should be the first to be admitted on Government sponsorship because there are not so many,” Prof. Nawangwe said.
Prof. Nawangwe called upon the government to devise a scheme and policy for integrating students with disabilities into the working environment after graduation.
Prof. Nawangwe noted that the University has established a Disability Support Centre, a one-stop facility to ensure equal access to education and life, promote inclusivity, and support students and staff with disabilities.
“Over the years, Makerere University has branded itself as a place that actively and loudly promotes increased awareness about the rights and needs of students and staff with disabilities.” Prof. Nawangwe remarked.
While addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest, Hon. Hellen Grace Asamo, the State minister for Disability Affairs, called upon Persons with Disabilities to always believe in themselves and be able to break the barriers of the inferiority complex.
“You have to show people that you have the potential, and when people get to know your potential, they will begin to include and engage you. But if you do not have your potential, nobody will include you. They will think you are just someone who is just there seated and begging,” Hon. Asamo noted.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students at Makerere University, said that the University is making a deliberate effort to pay particular attention to the decisive implementation of inclusive Policies and Practices.
“This is where we want all people to thrive and grow. Therefore, we are proud to accept and celebrate our differences and uniqueness. We welcome you here to build a culture of active support for each other and to declare that by championing a conducive environment for students and staff with disability, we are part of the change-makers of today,” Dr Kabumbuli said.
Dr. Kabumbuli also highlighted several policies the University has implemented, such as the Policy for Persons with Disabilities and safeguarding, Accommodation policy, University rules and regulations, the Human resource manual, and the student guild constitution that provides inclusive participation in student leadership and admission policies.
“These policies protect and enhance the rights of both staff and students with disabilities. For example, we have a student guild minister for persons with disabilities to ensure their voices are heard,” Dr. Kabumbuli noted.
Makerere has directed attention to ensuring accessible and comfortable accommodations for students with Disabilities by having designated accessible hostels and rooms. The University provides salaries, lodging, and meals for helpers who assist students with disabilities. A concentrated effort is also being made to build ramps, elevators, and accessible pathways to facilitate navigation for students and staff.
According to Dr Kabumbuli, the University has embraced a drive to facilitate students’ access to assistive devices, including wheelchairs, white canes, brailling machines, hearing aids, etc.
“As part of our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, the University has designated a specialized space within the library, equipped with assistive technologies and resources, specifically for students with disabilities to ensure equal access to knowledge and academic success for all. We have also put in place special arrangements, such as extra time during examinations to enable access to education,” Dr Kabumbuli said.
Dr. Kabumbuli acknowledged the support from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, the Ministry of Gender, and the School of Law, which are committed to championing diversity, inclusion, and equity for People with Disabilities.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated annually on December 3rd to raise awareness and support for people with disabilities worldwide.
-
General2 weeks agoMastercard Foundation Scholars Empower Schools in Mukono and Kyegwegwa Districts
-
Veterinary & Biosecurity1 week agoMak Field Day Training on livestock feed Climate-Smart Innovations conducted in Buwama
-
General5 days agoPublic Investment Management Centre of Excellence Launches Training on Economic and Stakeholder Analysis
-
Business & Management2 weeks agoPublic Investment Management Centre Concludes 4th Cohort Training on Financial Implications Guidelines