General
Mak Hosts Inter-University Dialogue on Sexual Harassment
The Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) in partnership with UN Women with financial support from Spotlight Initiative and the Government of Sweden organized a two-day exhibition and Inter-University Dialogue under the theme; Orange the World, Generation equality stands against rape. Stakeholders including; TASO, Mak Health Services, FIDA, among other Non-Government Organizations, that fight against Gender Based Violence (GBV) in Uganda took part in the event. The exhibition was held on 27th and 28th November 2019 as part of the annual 16 Days of Activism, where countries from all over the world come out to sensitize and increase awareness against GBV.
Panelists at the dialogue held on 28th November 2019 were Guild Presidents from six Universities. These included; H.E. Kateregga Julius of Makerere University, Ms. Ninsiima Hellen-Vice Guild President Kyambogo University, H.E. Mboga Patrick of Uganda Martyrs University Nkozi, H.E. Waywoma Moses of Ndejje University, H.E. Johnson Noowe of Gulu University and representative of the Guild President, Kampala International University Hon. Ayinamani Kizito
The Keynote Speaker Dr. Amon Ashaba Mwiine who is also a Lecturer at the School of Women and Gender Studies, Makerere University said that 75% of the women suffer beatings and other forms of domestic violence which are perceived as normal in society. This is in actual sense against human rights and the Speaker called upon men to have respect for every human being regardless of their gender.
He noted that cases of sexual harassment have been registered not only in educational intuitions but other places as well. The Keynote Speaker added that a few cases have been handled so far and called upon everyone to take a stand and put an end to sexual harassment by following the policies and other guidelines against the immoral act.
“Sexual harassment exists but the challenge is the victims fear to come out and report the perpetrator. This is one reason why sexual harassment is increasing but my advice to all the victims is this, come out, break the silence and have the criminal punished,” said Dr. Mwiine
He condemned the act of gender imbalance among institutions and other places of work and commended Makerere University for promoting Gender equality as shown by recruitment of staff and admission of students to the university. Dr. Mwinne also thanked GMD for the efforts put place to ensure that the immoral act of sexual harassment is pushed out of the University through programmes such as the 2 for 1 challenge, peer trainers, among others.
The Director, GMD, Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine shared that all the 6 universities present at the dialogue were invited as participants running the Safer University project, which is aimed at promoting gender equality in higher institutions of learning.
She revealed that this year’s theme: “Orange the world, generation equality stands against rape,” takes into account all rape cases regardless of gender, although women suffer more than men. However, she noted that all measures have been put in place to respond to rape and all other cases of sexual violence.
Dr. Mugisha Baine further shared that Makerere University has a newly revised policy on sexual harassment and advised all institutions of higher learning to put in place policies to end sexual harassment and have monitoring mechanisms to see that their policies are working.
The Senior Gender Officer GMD, Mr. Eric Tumwesigye advised students to respect and treat each other as human beings as one way to end violence. He explained that Gender Based Violence causes not only physical but also emotional harm and advised people to fight against it.
“Gender Based Violence is a very abstract form of violence for people that have not come close to it. Don’t wait for it to come, use experiences that have been shared to put an end to sexual harassment,” echoed Mr. Tumwesigye.
The Vice Guild President Kyambogo University, Ms. Ninsiima Hellen defined Gender Based Violence as an injustice in community which affects the victim’s physical and psychological wellbeing and advised men to put aside their ego and speak out when offended.
According to the Guild President Gulu University, H.E. Johnson Noowe, Gender Based Violence or sexual harassment stems from people of power to those they lead as it’s those with authority that mishandle the reported cases. He added that this demoralizes the victim and also promotes the immoral act as the offender goes unpunished.
Addressing the dialogue, the 85th Guild President H.E. Kateregga Julius, thanked GMD for the way they are handling sexual harassment cases and also for the revised policies against the immoral act. These actions, he shared, include suspending the reported offender in order to avoid interferences with the investigations.
He also expressed gratitude with the way gender equity is promoted at Makerere University especially in admission of students. H.E. Katerega further revealed that Students Guild Leaders were given an opportunity to participate in the Vice Chancellor’s roster for 100; another initiative to end sexual harassment in the University.
Giving advice on how to end sexual harassment, the Guild President Uganda Martyrs University Nkoozi H.E. Mboga Patrick, tipped fellow students to speak out whenever offended. He also cautioned the university stakeholders to implement whatever they propose and discuss.
The Guild Represntative Council (GRC) Ndejje University, said that Ndejje has joined hands with Reproductive Health Uganda to kick the vice out of the university.
Representing the Guild President Kampala International University, Hon. Ayinamani Kizito urged fellow students to report the case to the persons responsible and tasked the people in charge to take immediate action.
The panel was moderated by Ms. Prosscovia Nabatte from the Public Relations Office, Makerere University and Mr. Nicholas Kamwesigye, Head of Peer Trainers at Makerere University.
Article by Rachael Kanyi, Volunteer, 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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