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EALA General Purpose Committee Commends Mak ACEII Projects

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The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe has today September 8, 2021 hosted members of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) on a fact finding mission about the two World Bank-funded African Centers of Excellence hosted by Makerere University. The EALA General Purpose Committee, led by Hon. Dennis Namara, was interested in understanding what the research centers do, their achievements thus far and the opportunities therein.

The legislators commended the two centres, Makerere University Regional Center for Crop Improvement (MaRCCI) and the African Centre of Excellence for Material Science and Nano Technology (MAPRONANO) for the enormous research, innovation and contribution to food production and development of the country.

The Vice Chancellor welcomed the delegation and shared with them a brief about Makerere University, the research undertaken, the facilities available such as the Main Library, Sports facilities, and the Research Facilities such as Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK), Buyana Stock Farm as well as the laboratories in the different colleges.

The center leaders Prof. John Baptist Kirabira (MAPRONANO) and Prof. Richard Edema (MaRCCI) also shared with the legislators what their respective centers do and the achievements over the last 4 years of the project. The delegates praised Makerere for the crop improvement saying that the improved seeds (cow peas and sorghum) need to be shared with the entire region so that all countries benefit.

They called for commercialization and patenting of products such as the diesel engine that was made by researchers under MAPRONANO in collaboration with KEVOTON Motions Engineering Limited. They also commended the research and innovations in the area of COVID-19 such as the antimicrobial mask, research in a COVID-19 vaccine, classical mechanics treatment for HIV, solar powered sanitization booths and making of batteries among others.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, appealed to the East African legislators to increase funding to graduate research in universities as a means of contributing to growth in human resource as well as innovations.

The legislators proposed harmonization of the higher education system to ease teaching and learning. It was pointed out that because of the lack of harmonization, students are unable to transfer credits from one university to another in case they have to move from one country to another.

The Members of Parliament were amazed by the amount of research undertaken at the two Centres of Excellence and proposed the creation of a platform that promotes sharing of knowledge by the different universities in the region. 

The legislators emphasized the need to skill the youth so that they create jobs after graduation. The Vice Chancellor in his response assured the Members of Parliament that Makerere had embraced skilling through incubation centres at different colleges and inclusion of sociology as a course unit with the aim of graduating students who are able to create jobs.

Hon. Sergon Jematia Flowrence from Kenya called on the Makerere University Regional Center for Crop Improvement (MaRCCI) to work with other crop science agencies and universities in the region to ensure the farming communities access these seeds. She called for creation of a seed bank in each of the East African countries to ensure preservation of the improved crops and eradication of hunger in the region.

Hon. Odongo George Stephen from Uganda called for a change in the mindset, saying we need collaborations rather than working in silos. “Instead of collaborating with one another, we are looking at hiding our innovations, which leaves us disadvantaged,” he said. 

On harmonization of tuition fees, Prof. Nawangwe informed the delegates that Makerere was the first university to harmonize fees and charge East African students the same as nationals.

Citing the example of the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF), the Vice Chancellor called on the legislators to encourage their respective governments to fund research. He thanked the Government of Uganda for its continued role in supporting research. He informed the delegation that the Government allocates Shs30 billion shillings to Mak-RIF annually, which has led to a significant increase in innovations.

Hon. Kim Gai Ruot Duop from South Sudan challenged the university to pay particular interest to matters relating to water resources in East Africa, saying this is a matter that may cause us problems if not well managed. The Vice Chancellor in response emphasized that water is a priority in the great lakes region and the university’s Centre for Climate Change Research and Innovations (MUCCRI) is engaged in research, training, informing policy and conducting outreach activities in line with climate change.

The EALA delegates were accompanied by the Executive Secretary of the Inter-University Council of East Africa (IUCEA), Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbora, who said there is need for a policy to help break barriers in the accreditation of institutions of learning.

In his closing remarks, the head of delegation, Hon. Namara emphasized that the EALA would recommend the harmonization of the education system at institutions of higher learning to ease teaching and learning.

Following the engagement with the Vice Chancellor, the EALA Legislators visited the MAPRONANO facility at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) for a guided tour of the Materials Lab and CNC Lab. The Legislators also had an opportunity to see and ask questions about the state of the art Vapour Pressure (VP) Sigma 300 High resolution Scanning Electron Microscope for nanomaterial’s characterization, acquired by MAPRONANO with funding from the Government of Uganda in July 2021.

The EALA General Purposes Committee delegation comprised; Hon. Namara Dennis (Chairperson)–Uganda, Hon. Uwumukiza Francoise–Rwanda, Hon. Sergon Jematiah Flowrence–Kenya, Hon. Deng Nhial Gai–South Sudan, Hon. Ali Ibrahim Fatuma–Kenya, Hon. Rutazana Francine–Rwanda, Hon. Ahingejeje Alfred–Burundi, Hon. Dr. Abdullah Hasnuu Makame–Tanzania, Hon. Yahya Maryam Ussi–Tanzania, Hon. Odongo George Stephen–Uganda, Hon. Maasay Pamela Simon–Tanzania, Hon. Musamali Paul Mwasa–Uganda, Hon. Kim Gai Ruot Duop–South Sudan, Hon. Ayason Mukulia Kennedy–South Sudan, Hon. Muhirwa Jean-Marie–Burundi, Hon. Bahati Alex–Rwanda and Hon. Nsavyimana Sophie–Burundi.

Betty Kyakuwa is the Principal Communication Officer, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT)

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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Makerere Convocation to Host a CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit 2025

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Makerere University Convocation (MUC) CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit on Tuesday, 2nd September 2025, 8:00AM-12:00PM, Convocation Grounds. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Elvis Lubanga

Kampala, Uganda – Makerere University Convocation (MUC) is set to host the CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit on Tuesday, 2nd September 2025, bringing together a distinguished assembly of leaders and stakeholders.

The half-day summit will convene CEOs, investors, entrepreneurs, policymakers, researchers, innovators, and development partners to engage in meaningful dialogue, foster collaboration, and explore investment opportunities that can unlock the potential of Uganda’s next generation of talent. Running under the theme: “Exploring the Opportunities for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Value Creation for Accelerated Socio-Economic Integration and Development of Sub-Saharan Africa,” the event reflects Makerere University’s ambition to position itself as a hub of knowledge, innovation, and transformation.

The Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja will officiate as the Chief Guest, while Dr. Peter Kimbowa, CEO of the CEO Summit Uganda, will deliver the keynote address. Their participation underscores the importance of the summit in strengthening linkages between academia, industry, and government, and in advancing Uganda’s broader socio-economic transformation agenda.

Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, will welcome the invited participants and highlighted the university’s determination to work collaboratively with partners to shape impactful solutions for Uganda and the region.

“We want to work with you to see how, together, we can move our country and continent forward. I invited all of you CEOs to Makerere so that we can brainstorm on what we can do to transform our nation and Africa at large,” Prof. Nawangwe remarked.

According to Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto, Chief Convener of the summit and Vice Chairperson of the Makerere University Convocation, this will be the first event of its kind. She noted that the summit seeks to foster mentorship, internships, and employment linkages as a means of bridging the gap between industry and academia, while positioning Convocation as a driver of socio-economic transformation.

A key highlight of the summit will be the unveiling of the Makerere University Convocation’s Massive Transformation Purpose, a bold framework that converts five critical takeaways into independent working teams with clear Terms of Reference, objectives, data-driven activities, and measurable outcomes. The plan institutionalizes vision, distributes ownership, and ensures sustainability through quarterly reporting, evidence-based impact, and global benchmarking. The five teams—From Ivory Tower to Impact Tower, Diaspora Dividend vs. Brain Drain, Intergenerational Knowledge Bridges, AI & Future of Learning, and From Convocation to Covenant—are designed to commercialize research, harness diaspora capital, institutionalize mentorship, drive digital transformation, and sustain alumni–faculty–student engagement through a covenant model. Collectively, they transform Convocation from a ceremonial event into a movement of accountability, innovation, and sustainable socio-economic impact for Uganda and Africa.

The summit has already attracted wide endorsement from leading companies and agencies, demonstrating its timeliness and relevance.

Mr. Eugene Too, General Manager at Haco Industries, affirmed the company’s support, stating:

“Haco Industries endorses the Makerere University CEOs Forum. We believe the Summit’s objectives align with our broader goals of creating impact in education, supporting internships, job placement, and mentorship programs in Sub-Saharan Africa. We are proud to be associated with the Summit at Makerere University Convocation.”

Eng. Shaft Mukwaya, Secretary to the Equal Opportunities Commission of Uganda, commended the Convocation’s role in promoting inclusivity:

“Makerere University Convocation has proven to be a steadfast ally in achieving our mission of pursuing an inclusive society in which no one is left behind. We are honoured to be associated with this summit.”

Roofings Uganda has equally expressed strong endorsement, noting that the event aligns closely with their corporate vision:

“At Roofings, we are privileged to endorse the Makerere University Convocation CEOs/Investors’ Summit and call upon all invited guests to be part of this noble cause. Makerere University is a valued partner in nurturing talent and fostering innovation, which aligns closely with our vision of being an accelerator for a sustainable Africa. As sponsors, we are honoured to be associated with this summit that brings together leaders, investors, and visionaries to shape inclusive growth and development.”

With its broad stakeholder support, clear strategic framework, and focus on outcomes, the Makerere University Convocation’s CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit is positioned as a landmark event. It will provide a unique platform for academia, industry, and government to converge in pursuit of sustainable growth, innovation, and socio-economic development, not only for Uganda but for the entire Sub-Saharan African region.

Mak Editor

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Change of Course/Programme for Undergraduate Admissions 2025/2026

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The Office of the Academic Registrar, Makerere University has released lists for the recommended for change of course/ programme for Degree/Diploma Scheme and Direct entry for Private/Government sponsored students for the Academic Year 2025/2026.

The lists released can be accessed by following the respective links below:

Elias Tuhereze

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Makerere Signs Open MoU with London School of Economics and Political Science

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Seated Left to Right: Dr. Richard Newfarmer, Dr. Jonathan Leape, Dr. Sarah Sewanyana, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu and Prof. James Wokadala with other officials (Standing) after the MoU signing on 27th August 2025. Makerere University, through the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) and the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC), has signed an open Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), 27th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University, through the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) and the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC), has signed an open Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). This MoU is one of several initiatives aimed at strengthening the university’s global collaborations and research partnerships.

In his remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe highlighted Makerere’s recent centenary celebrations as a testament to its long and influential history in Africa. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to serious, research-driven collaboration, noting Makerere’s aspiration to become a leading student-centered research university that develops solutions to regional challenges.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe makes his remarks ahead of the MoU signing. Makerere University, through the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) and the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC), has signed an open Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), 27th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe makes his remarks ahead of the MoU signing.

Prof. Nawangwe emphasized that Makerere’s research addresses critical issues such as widespread poverty, high youth unemployment, the devastating effects of climate change on agriculture, rapid population growth, and political interference in production. These challenges, he explained, call for climate-resilient agriculture, stronger health systems to address emerging diseases, and more inclusive governance. He further observed that Africa’s ambitious goal of producing one million PhDs in the next decade remains constrained by inadequate supervision capacity across the continent, stressing that collaborations like this MoU are key to bridging that gap.

EPRC Executive Director, Dr. Sarah Sewanyana, described the signing as particularly significant for EPRC and its Board of Directors as they embark on a new five-year strategic plan (2025/26–2029/30). She explained that the plan strongly emphasizes strategic collaborations, with this partnership serving as a prime example of leveraging collective strengths to deepen impact. She underscored EPRC’s role in advancing evidence-based policymaking for national development, aligning with Uganda’s National Development Plan IV.

The partners show off the signed MoU. Makerere University, through the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) and the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC), has signed an open Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), 27th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The partners show off the signed MoU.

Prof. James Wokadala, Acting Principal of CoBAMS, emphasized that the collaboration seeks to preserve and expand vital human knowledge while strengthening partnerships between academic institutions and global research networks. He noted that these networks are instrumental in advising legal and policy professionals, as well as aligning research agendas with both national and corporate priorities. He expressed pride in the extensive efforts of the School of Economics that have expanded these activities in recent years. He pointed to significant accomplishments that have been achieved in collaboration with IGC, including hosting a 2025 high-level international conference on mobile money payment systems, which positioned Makerere University as a thought leader on critical African economic issues. He also celebrated the successful bid by the School of Economics to host the ‘Africa Meeting of the Econometric Society’ in 2027, further demonstrating its contribution to impactful scholarship and policy influence.

The Acting Principal further emphasized that the new partnership with LSE will build on these achievements, offering immense benefits such as expanding capacity-building opportunities for faculty and students, especially in research and Public Infrastructure Management (PIM). The collaboration will also provide platforms for knowledge dissemination and policy dialogue, while addressing pressing socio-economic and health challenges. Ultimately, he said, formalisation of the partnership amplifies CoBAMS’ commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and innovation.

Speaking on behalf of LSE’s International Growth Centre (IGC), Executive Director Dr. Jonathan Leape expressed delight at formalizing the long-standing collaboration with Makerere and EPRC. He highlighted current joint projects, including research on the impact of the 2020 gender-based vaccine program on women’s skills and learning, studies on reforms in STEM education, and investigations into barriers limiting business growth for entrepreneurs. He stressed that the core mission is to bring researchers and policymakers together to address pressing policy challenges with robust, reliable evidence and innovative solutions.

Prof. Nawangwe presents a souvenir Mak Necktie to Dr. Jonathan Leape. Makerere University, through the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) and the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC), has signed an open Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), 27th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe presents a souvenir Mak Necktie to Dr. Jonathan Leape.

The event, held on 27th August 2025, was attended by several dignitaries including Dr. Richard Newfarmer, Country Director for Uganda and Rwanda (IGC); Dr. Nhial Kuch, Senior Country Economist (IGC); and Mary Teddy Nakyejwe, IGC Programme Officer. Also present were the Director of Research, Dr. Ibrahim Kasirye and other members of EPRC leadership.

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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