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Mak RIF Holds Stakeholders Workshop with Private Sector & Development Partners
The Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (RIF) on Friday 31st January 2020 held the second consultative workshop for representatives from Private Sector Institutions, Non-Governmental Organisations and Development Partners aimed at understanding priority research and innovation needs in the different sectors so as to develop a robust research agenda. Participating agencies were grouped according to sectors such as; Agriculture, Business Development Support, Culture, Conservation, Finance, Health, Gender, ICT, Manufacturing, SMEs, Social Welfare, Trade and Transport.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-DVCAA, Dr. Umar Kakumba thanked participating agencies for supporting Makerere University to continue providing innovative teaching and learning, research and services responsive to national and global needs.
“Makerere University is proud of its longstanding history of leveraging and nurturing national and international collaborations and partnerships. It is such initiatives which have kept our University blossoming in research, teaching and community service. I hope that we can coin additional collaborations and partnerships by the end of our engagement today” remarked the DVCAA.
Dr. Kakumba shared that Makerere University’s Research agenda aims to; provide a robust supportive environment for a research-driven university, increase capacity for knowledge transformation and innovation as well as strengthen research and innovation management and coordination.
“Our agenda also aims to mainstream gender in all research and innovation activities, mobilise more funds for research, promote commercialization of innovations, exploit intellectual property and enhance networks with teaching, research and cultural institutions” added the DVCAA.
He therefore urged participants to work closely with the University in its quest to strengthen Uganda’s research capacity and output by generously contributing to the discussion in the stakeholders’ workshop.
The Chairperson RIF Grants Management Committee (GMC), Prof. William Bazeyo in his remarks noted that workshop was Makerere’s first engagement with the private sector to develop a research agenda. “We are transitioning Makerere into a research-led University in as far as both the Humanities and Sciences are concerned, which will result into increased research output.”
He noted that although 71% of research continues to be funded by donors, the UGX 30billion intervention by the Government of Uganda through RIF is a gesture that has been greatly welcomed by the Makerere University community. He shared the University’s keenness to also mobilise resources to fund research from the private sector.
“The grants under RIF are awarded to projects that impact communities and national development priorities. We would therefore like you our stakeholders to provide additional input into what we should research about so that together, we can develop a comprehensive research agenda” added Prof. Bazeyo.
The Chairperson GMC also underlined the University’s intention to produce data-driven innovations and increase dissemination of research by working together with the private sector and other actors.
The feedback received from parallel group discussions will be used by the GMC to define priority research and innovation areas for the different sectors. Participants in the Health sector in particular outlined; the need for innovative ICT systems that reduce patient waiting times, study opportunities for demographic dividends and ways to increase data exchange among health sector players as some of the research priorities.
Article by Public Relations Office
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NCBA Commits UGX 1.45 Billion to Makerere Marathon, Pledges Five-Year Support for Inclusive Education
By Eve Nakyanzi and Atwenda Nancy
Makerere University has officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the platinum sponsor for the 2025 Makerere University Marathon (#MakRun2025), marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable student support. The partnership was formally announced during a colourful event held at the university, attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund, and NCBA Bank Uganda CEO, Mr. Mark Muyobo.
NCBA Bank Uganda’s UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship over the next five years is the largest corporate contribution to the Makerere Marathon to date. It underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting quality education, community development, and equity. Mr. Muyobo said that, “We are driven by the desire to leave every community better than we found it”. He added that the goal is to empower disadvantaged students to live without limitations, describing this initiative as a bold stride toward establishing a world-class international marathon.
“This is more than just a sponsorship, it is a strategic partnership built on shared values,” Dr. Kigozi remarked. “With this support, we are positioned to establish a fully equipped Disability Support Unit and a sustainable pool of funds to assist economically disadvantaged students.”
The marathon, slated under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future,” seeks to unify students, alumni, corporate entities, and professional athletes in pursuit of a common cause. At its core, the MakRun2025 promotes active lifestyles, social inclusion, and a sense of communal responsibility.
“It’s not just a race,” Prof. Nawangwe emphasized. “It is a movement to break barriers, change lives, and build a resilient, inclusive university.”
The marathon’s broader impact includes fundraising for students living with disabilities and those facing financial hardship, contributing directly to the university’s Endowment Fund.
A major highlight of the event is the introduction of a full 42.2-kilometer marathon—bringing international standards to the annual run. Organizers have promised a professional, accredited experience with traffic-free routes and ample support for runners.
“This edition will elevate the MakRun into a world-class event,” said Mr. Muyobo. “We are proud to support Makerere University in realizing its dream of a globally recognized marathon that reflects Uganda’s commitment to education and inclusivity.”
Beyond the race itself, the event will feature a vibrant line-up of activities, including music, drama, and games for all age groups. It is designed to foster a festival-like atmosphere that welcomes every member of the community.
Organizers and university leaders have extended an open invitation to students, staff, alumni, corporate partners, and Kampala residents to participate, cheer, or donate to the cause.
“Every step taken is a step towards hope for a student,” Dr. Kigozi stated. “Together, we are building a Makerere that cares, includes, and uplifts.”
The partnership is expected to significantly enhance the university’s ability to support underprivileged students and improve campus infrastructure for students with disabilities. It also sets the tone for future collaborations that align with the values of compassion, excellence, and innovation. The fifth edition of the MakRun is scheduled to take place on August 17th, 2025.
The Writers are Interns in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University
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