The Department of Mathematics at Makerere University recently hosted a three-day workshop aimed at enhancing the contribution of mathematics to sustainable development, with a particular focus on strengthening academia-industry collaboration and advancing regional integration.

Held at the Senate Building, the workshop brought together academics, researchers, and industry practitioners from Uganda and across the East African region to discuss how mathematics can be more effectively applied to address pressing societal challenges.

The workshop formed part of the activities of the Africa-Europe Cluster of Research Excellence in Mathematics (CoRE-MATH) initiative, implemented in collaboration with the NORHED II project, Mathematics for Sustainable Development (Math4SDG). The programme seeks to establish sustainable structures and platforms for Academia-Industry-Society collaboration in applications-oriented mathematics and data science through Mathematics in Industry Contact Workshops (MICW) and Mathematics in Industry Study Groups (MISG).

Addressing the Academia–Industry Gap

Despite significant growth in mathematical research across East Africa in recent years, its impact on industry and broader societal development remains limited. This gap is largely driven by weak knowledge transfer mechanisms and a lack of structured collaboration between academia and industry.

The workshop was designed as a “contact forum” to foster direct engagement between researchers and industry representatives, with the aim of identifying practical challenges that can be addressed through mathematical modelling, data science, and computational techniques.

 Specific Objectives

1. Foster academia-industry collaboration
2. Promote applied and industrial mathematics in society
3. Support research and innovation
4. Strengthen regional and interdisciplinary networks

Coordination and Leadership

The CoRE-MATH (Africa–Europe Cluster of Research Excellence in Mathematics) is co-led by Prof. John Mango Magero (Makerere University) and Prof. Bengt Ove Turesson (International Science Programme / Uppsala University, Sweden). They Coordinate the cluster’s activities across African and European partner universities.

The workshop was coordinated by Prof. John Mango Magero and Dr. Alex Behakanira, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Mathematics and member of the academic network contributing to capacity building and collaborative research activities in the CoRE-MATH initiative.

Expert Insights on the Role of Mathematics in Real-World Challenges

A key highlight of the workshop was a series of technical presentations demonstrating the wide-ranging relevance of mathematical sciences in addressing real-world challenges across health, urban development, energy, finance, agriculture, and environmental systems. The presentations reinforced the workshop’s overarching goal of strengthening academia-industry collaboration through applied research and innovation.

European technical expert, Prof. Matti Heilio, set the tone with a keynote address on the global evolution of industrial mathematics. He outlined how structured partnerships between universities and industry have historically driven innovation and economic transformation in advanced economies, and emphasized the importance of building similar ecosystems to support Uganda’s research and innovation agenda.

In her presentation, Dr. Rebecca Nsubuga, Visiting Professor at Hasselt University, Belgium, shared insights on the growing role of mathematical methods in medical research and clinical decision-making. Similarly, Dr. Irumba Richard, former Director of Physical Planning at Kampala Capital City Authority, demonstrated how mathematical modelling can inform sustainable urban planning in rapidly growing cities such as Kampala. His presentation highlighted the importance of data-driven planning tools in managing urban expansion and infrastructure pressures.

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Focusing on aquaculture, Dr. Kubiriza Kawooya Godfrey, Head of the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences at Makerere University explained how investment and production decisions are fundamentally grounded in mathematical reasoning. He emphasized the need for robust modelling of biological and economic variables to enhance productivity, efficiency, and decision-making in the sector.

Dr. Dennis Ndanguza from the University of Rwanda presented mathematical models supporting the extraction of methane from Lake Kivu, illustrating how applied mathematics can contribute to sustainable energy development and improved resource management.

From the financial sector, Mr. Grace Semakula of Stanbic Bank Group highlighted the growing importance of mathematical sciences in enhancing financial decision-making, risk assessment, and long-term investment planning. From the healthcare sector, Dr. Iddi Ndyabawe presented on retinopathy of prematurity in Uganda, showing how quantitative approaches can improve early diagnosis, guide clinical interventions, and ultimately enhance treatment outcomes for vulnerable neonatal populations.

Towards Sustainable Collaboration

The workshop concluded with a shared commitment to sustained engagement between universities and industry, aimed at ensuring that mathematical research contributes more directly to economic development and societal needs.

Participants recommended the establishment of structured follow-up activities, including future Mathematics in Industry Study Groups, where selected industrial challenges will be further explored through joint academic–industry research teams.

About the CoRE-MATH Initiative

The CoRE-MATH (Cluster of Research Excellence in Mathematics) Initiative is an Africa-Europe collaborative research programme established in 2024 under the partnership of the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) and The Guild of European Research-Intensive Universities.

The initiative seeks to strengthen mathematics research, postgraduate education, and academic collaboration between African and European universities. Its core objectives include building research capacity in African institutions, enhancing the quality and volume of joint mathematical research, supporting doctoral training, and promoting the participation of women in mathematics. It also aims to apply mathematical knowledge to address social, economic, and developmental challenges across Africa.

The initiative brings together leading universities from both continents. African partner institutions include Makerere University, the University of Nairobi, the University of Rwanda, the University of Dar es Salaam, Addis Ababa University, the University of Zambia, and Stellenbosch University. These institutions collaborate with European universities such as Uppsala University, the University of Amsterdam, and the University of Oslo.

Through joint research projects, academic exchanges, workshops, conferences, and collaborative PhD programmes, CoRE-MATH fosters knowledge sharing and strengthens international research networks. In Uganda, Makerere University plays a central role in advancing mathematical sciences and developing highly skilled researchers for the region.

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Pictorial of the workshop: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1if6y8bYPOt8vW6Tm6k50Wspg0XFibl02?usp=sharing

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Prof. Michael Owor has officially handed over the office of Dean, School of Physical Sciences to Prof. David Ssevviiri. Prof. Owor has served as Dean since 1^st February 2022. Following his appointment by the University Council, Prof. Ssevviiri will serve as Dean for the next four years, effective 6^th May 2026.

Handover Ceremony

Held on 28^th May 2026 in the office of the Dean, the handover ceremony was overseen by Makerere University Chief of Internal Audit, Mr. Patrick Akonyet. It was attended by the Deputy Principal of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Prof. Juma Kasozi; the Head of the Department of Chemistry, Dr Emmanuel Tebandeke; the representative of the Head of the Department of Physics, Dr. Nicholas Kwarikunda; the representative of the Head of the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, Dr Denis Mutebi; the College Human Resource Officer, Ms. Kevin Nabiryo Mikwano; and the College and School Registrars.

Remarks from the College leadership

On behalf of the College leadership, Prof. Juma Kasozi commended Prof. Owor for his dedicated service and leadership throughout his tenure and congratulated Prof. Ssevviiri upon his appointment, wishing him success in his new role.

Achievements and remarks by the outgoing Dean

During his tenure, Prof. Owor chaired the School Academic Board and several key committees, including the Establishment and Appointments Committee, the Examination Malpractices Committee, and the Irregularities and Appeals Committee. He also presided over MSc viva voce examinations and PhD public defenses. Under his leadership, he ensured the timely submission of results, eliminated academic backlogs, and strengthened the coordination of graduate examinations, while also supporting the development and review of academic programmes. He has also served as the Patron of the CoNAS Students’ Guild.

In his remarks, Prof. Owor expressed gratitude to the University Council and Management for the opportunity accorded to him to serve as Dean. He also thanked the College leadership and staff for their support and reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the University.

“I want to thank the University Management through the Chief Human Resource Officer for appointing me as dean, School of Physical Sciences for the last four years. I pledge my total support to the incoming Dean of the School. I also pledge to continue offering my services to the University through my mother Department, Geology and Petroleum Studies.”

Remarks from the Directorate of Human Resources

Representing the Directorate of Human Resources (DHR), Ms. Kevin Nabiryo Mikwano commended Prof. Owor for his leadership and contributions during his tenure.

“You have steered the school through curriculum reforms, staff development, student growth, and your commitment to both staff and students has not gone unnoticed. The foundation you have laid will continue to support the school’s progress. Thank you for your partnership with the Directorate of Human Resources in ensuring staff welfare, recruitment, and performance processes were handled with integrity and care.”

She also congratulated Prof. Ssevviiri on his appointment, expressing confidence in his leadership and vision. She reaffirmed the Directorate’s readiness to support him in team building, talent management, and fostering a positive working environment for academic, administrative, and support staff. She further encouraged staff to maintain strong collaboration with the incoming Dean, emphasizing: “The success of the school depends on how well we work together. At the DHR, our commitment is to ensure that policies, processes, and people management practices support the school’s academic mission. May this handover mark the beginning of another strong chapter for the School of Physical Sciences.”

Guidance on the officially recognized Government handover procedure

The Chief of Internal Audit, Mr. Patrick Akonyet, commended both the outgoing and incoming Deans and emphasized adherence to the Government of Uganda handover and taking of office procedures. He noted that strict compliance with established guidelines is essential for accountability, transparency, institutional continuity, and smooth transition of responsibilities.

Remarks by the incoming Dean

In his remarks, Prof. David Ssevviiri thanked Prof. Owor for his service and appreciated the University Management for his appointment. He emphasized the importance of the School of Physical Sciences in advancing science and innovation. “We have a responsibility of nurturing our students into innovative problem solvers. The future of Science depends on how well we prepare our students. Building on the successes of my predecessors, and working collaboratively through our Departments, we can further contribute to solving real world challenges.  

Profile of Prof. David Ssevviiri

Prof. David Ssevviiri is a Ugandan mathematician and academic leader serving as an Associate Professor of Mathematics at Makerere University, College of Natural Sciences. He is widely recognized for his work in pure mathematics, particularly in algebra, module theory, ring theory, algebraic geometry, and local cohomology.

He holds a Bachelor of Science with Education in Mathematics and Chemistry from Makerere University, as well as a Master of Science in Mathematics from the same institution. He also obtained an additional MSc and a PhD in Mathematics from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (now Nelson Mandela University), South Africa. His doctoral research, A Contribution to the Theory of Prime Modules, focused on advanced module theory and algebra.

Prof. Ssevviiri joined Makerere University in 2011 as an Assistant Lecturer and rose to the rank of Associate Professor in 2022. He previously served as Head of the Department of Mathematics from 2015 to 2020, where he contributed to strengthening teaching, research collaboration, and postgraduate training.

His research interests include primeness and nilpotency in ring and module theory, torsion theory, radical theory, homological algebra, and the interaction between algebra and algebraic geometry. He has authored and co-authored several peer-reviewed publications in international journals, contributing significantly to advancements in abstract algebra.

Beyond teaching and research, he has contributed to mathematics development in East Africa through student supervision, external examining, and coordination of regional academic programs. He has also participated in initiatives aimed at promoting mathematics education and encouraging young people to pursue careers in science and technology.

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Pictorial of the ceremony: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1pmWX5H46UHbFkTT-I4OIJwFbXIwuO6e1?usp=sharing

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It is my distinct pleasure to present the 2025 Annual Report of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) at Makerere University. This report reflects a year defined by steady growth, strategic consolidation, and outstanding achievements across our core mandates of teaching and learning, research and innovation, and strategic engagement and partnerships.

Throughout 2025, the College reaffirmed its position as a leading centre of scientific inquiry and training. Our vibrant academic community, comprising the School of Physical Sciences and the School of Biosciences, with eight specialised departments and 153 dedicated members of staff, continued to demonstrate resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Through high-quality, competitive grant proposals and multidisciplinary collaboration, our faculty secured research funding that supports transformative initiatives tackling critical national, regional, and global challenges. During the 2024/2025 academic year, the College enrolled 1,195 students at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. We proudly celebrated the graduation of 14 PhD, 36 MSc, and 260 BSc students, including 10 First Class degrees. We commend Mr. Mubiru Enock Joel, who emerged as the best-performing science student with a CGPA of 4.91 in the Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Physics programme. The successful defense of 13 doctoral theses during the year further underscores the strength of our postgraduate training and research environment. The introduction of the Terminal Seminar for final-year students and our continued career guidance outreach to secondary schools demonstrate our commitment to holistic student development and informed career pathways. Research excellence remains a cornerstone of our identity. Our staff received prestigious recognitions for outstanding contributions in research and teaching during the 75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University. These accolades reflect the culture of scholarship and mentorship that defines CoNAS.

The year was marked by impactful research and innovation initiatives. We made history with the identification of 42 Important Plant Areas in Uganda, aligning national conservation efforts with global biodiversity strategies. Our researchers documented 174 medicinal plant species in Eastern Uganda, highlighting urgent conservation needs. Innovative solutions such as converting household organic waste into clean energy and bio-fertiliser exemplify our commitment to sustainable development. The launch of the NutriFishPlus Project, supported by international partners, is strengthening fish processing technologies and empowering women and youth in fishing communities. Similarly, the EU-funded INNOECOFOOD Project and the TRUEFISH regional workshop have advanced sustainable aquaculture, food security, and biosecurity in East Africa. Our climate and environmental research portfolio continued to expand through projects such as ECCoFE, fostering international collaboration and strengthening capacity in freshwater ecosystem research. In public health, the MicroNUT-IPHL initiative is integrating micronutrient testing into Uganda’s laboratory surveillance systems, enhancing evidence-based nutrition policy and practice. These initiatives reflect our deep engagement with societal needs and our responsiveness to emerging global challenges.

Innovation and student engagement were prominently showcased during the 2025 National Science Week Exhibition, where our students presented practical, market-oriented solutions ranging from biofuels and biosensors to health innovations. Such platforms nurture entrepreneurial thinking and translate scientific knowledge into tangible societal impact.

Our faculty also attained significant international recognition. Appointments to global scientific bodies, editorial boards, and international research collaborations affirm the growing visibility and influence of CoNAS scholars on the global stage.

In addition to academic and research achievements, the College, with support from the Estates and Works Department of the University, invested in improving CoNAS ANNUAL REPORT 2025 5 infrastructure across departments to enhance the teaching and research environment.

The College community also actively participated in initiatives promoting health, inclusion, and unity, including the MakRun.

As we reflect on the milestones of 2025, we are mindful of the challenges that accompany growth including resource constraints, evolving technological demands, and the need for sustained infrastructure development. Yet, with the continued support of the University leadership, our partners, staff, students, and alumni, we remain confident in our collective capacity to advance scientific excellence and contribute meaningfully to national and global development.

I extend my sincere appreciation to all members of the College, our collaborators, and stakeholders whose dedication and partnership made these achievements possible. Together, we will continue to strengthen the College of Natural Sciences as a hub of innovation, discovery, and transformative impact.

Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta
Principal, CoNAS

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