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CEES to Champion Quality Education amidst COVID-19 disruptions

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Makerere University is taking the lead to ensure that quality education remains a priority as the country grapples with the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Makerere University through the College of Education and External Studies took keen interest in the topical debate that education will never be or mean the same after the Covid-19 pandemic that disrupted the education system with schools closed to safeguard the lives of learners and teachers.

Dr. Mathias Mulumba, Dean of the School of Education, CEES addresses the media.
Dr. Mathias Mulumba, Dean of the School of Education, CEES addresses the media.

“No one knows how many of the estimated 500,617 teachers in both government and private schools will return to class and in what form,” Dr. Mathias Mulumba, the Dean, School of Education said, during the press briefing.

In Uganda, the school system was disrupted for close to two years and different actors have expressed the need for the country to rise to the COVID-19 challenges and continue to provide quality education.

To address this critical issue, CEES and the Ministry of Education and Sports have organized the National Stakeholders’ symposium on Covid-19 and Education to analyze and discuss key issues and innovations that can keep the quality of education afloat during and after the pandemic.

Dr. Mathias Mulumba (R) and Dr. Charles Kyasanku National Coordinator Working Groups (L) confer during the press conference.
Dr. Mathias Mulumba (R) and Dr. Charles Kyasanku National Coordinator Working Groups (L) confer during the press conference.

The National Stakeholders’ Symposium slated for 24thto 26th November 2021 at the Imperial Royale Hotel, Kampala will provide a platform to stakeholders and actors to dialogue and provide solutions under the theme, “Getting back a right to quality education during and after the Covid-19 pandemic.” The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni will grace the National Stakeholders’ Symposium.

Addressing journalists during a press conference held on Friday 12th November 2021 at Makerere University, Dr. Mathias Mulumba, Dean of the School of Education highlighted that the key stakeholders to participate in this discussion include school administrators at all levels, private and public players, agencies and the academia. The symposium will also involve other partners namely The World Bank, USAID, UNICEF, and Raising Voices among others.

Dr. Mulumba expressed concern that some of the challenges that the learners were exposed to were more likely to result in loss of interest in learning. He pointed out teenage pregnancies, domestic violence and the uncertainty of what classes the learners would join when schools re-open.

Mr. Timothy Ssejoba represented the Ministry of Education and Sports at the Press Conference.
Mr. Timothy Ssejoba represented the Ministry of Education and Sports at the Press Conference.

Similarly, teachers as he further explained have adopted to businesses outside the profession for survival which may cause some to drop out of their professional practice.

On behalf of the Ministry of Education and Sports, Mr. Timothy Ssejoba-Principal Education Officer in charge of University Education pointed out that the National Stakeholders’ Symposium will lead to the formulation of the National Participatory Consolidated Plan of Action on Covid-19 and Education.

Mr. Ssejoba also underscored the policy direction that requires all teachers to attain a degree in education over the next 10 years. “This is aimed at professionalizing the education sector. We would like the teachers to upgrade, acquire more skills and knowledge and also to be in tandem with the trends in the education sector.”

Dr. John Ssentongo-Head of Science, Technical and Vocational Education, CEES addresses the media.
Dr. John Ssentongo-Head of Science, Technical and Vocational Education, CEES addresses the media.

Also present at the press conference were Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke Head Department of Humanities and Language Education, Dr. Rebecca Nambi Member of Staff Department of Humanities and Language Education, Dr. John Sentongo-Head of Science, Technical and Vocational Education, Dr. Charles Kyasanku National Coordinator Working Groups and Ms. Ritah Namisango Principal PRO Makerere University.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

Education

Love Binti: 240 Graduate with Certificates and Diplomas

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Ms. Elle Yang, Dr. Harriet Nabushawo and Dr. Jimmy Tibs Tumwesigye join some of the graduating candidates to cut cake. 240 students graduated with certificates and diplomas from the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) under the Love Binti Program, which offers training in fashion design and hairdressing, 13th December 2024, Impis Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Over 240 students graduated with certificates and diplomas from the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) under the Love Binti Program, which offers training in fashion design and hairdressing.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony on December 13, 2024, Mr. Joseph Watuleke, the program coordinator at Makerere University, noted that while the program has provided free training for seven years, this year’s graduates were required to co-fund 50% of their tuition to ensure sustainability. Due to rising demand, the college introduced diploma-level training and plans to expand into other vocational courses.

Dr. Harriet Nabushawo, Ms. Elle Yang, Dr. Jimmy Tibs Tumwesigye and Mr. Joseph Watuleke pose with graduating candidates. 240 students graduated with certificates and diplomas from the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) under the Love Binti Program, which offers training in fashion design and hairdressing, 13th December 2024, Impis Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Preparing Job Creators, Not Job Seekers

As the global focus shifts from creating job seekers to fostering job creators, graduates from the Love Binti Program expressed interest in pursuing higher education to enhance their qualifications. They called for universities to prioritize vocational courses at the degree level, citing the growing youth unemployment crisis.

“Universities are still producing job seekers, leaving many graduates unemployed due to a lack of practical skills,” said Mr. Moses Conrad Yesuanjagala, a fashion and design graduate. “If more students were enrolled in vocational training, they would be job-ready upon graduation.”

Some of the graduating candidates with their creations in the background. 240 students graduated with certificates and diplomas from the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) under the Love Binti Program, which offers training in fashion design and hairdressing, 13th December 2024, Impis Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The students made this plea during the Love Binti International graduation ceremony held at Makerere University’s Rugby Grounds, where 244 students were conferred ordinary and advanced certificates in fashion and design.

Transforming Dreams into Reality

Since its founding in 2018, Love Binti International has graduated 1,930 students in Uganda in hairdressing and fashion design. Mr. Yesuanjagala, 53, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, sharing how his lifelong dream of becoming a fashion designer came true through the program.

“I’m a father of grown children, but I still pursued this knowledge because the skills are practical and marketable,” he said, urging universities to embrace vocational skilling.

Some of the graduating candidates show off their creations. 240 students graduated with certificates and diplomas from the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) under the Love Binti Program, which offers training in fashion design and hairdressing, 13th December 2024, Impis Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Similarly, Ms. Sarah Apio, a fellow fashion and design graduate, called on her peers to pursue their passions fearlessly. “The world needs your unique perspective, talent, and passion. Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo and pursue your dreams,” she advised.

Institutional Support and Future Prospects

Dr. Jimmy Tibs Tumwesigye, representing the Department of Adult and Community Education at Makerere, emphasized the need for continuous skilling beyond formal education. He encouraged graduates to form groups and apply for government programs like the Parish Development Model and Emyooga for startup capital.

“Be our ambassadors and train at least five more people. That is how we build a skilled and self-reliant society,” he urged.

Left to Right: Ms. Elle Yang, Dr. Harriet Nabushawo, a graduating candidate and Dr. Jimmy Tibs Tumwesigye during the award ceremony. 240 students graduated with certificates and diplomas from the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) under the Love Binti Program, which offers training in fashion design and hairdressing, 13th December 2024, Impis Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Dr. Harriet Nabushawo, Dean of the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, served as the guest of honor. She encouraged graduates to remain proactive, collaborate, and seek out new knowledge and designs online.

On behalf of Makerere University, Dr. Nabushawo pledged continued support for the program, which has been hosted at the university for seven years.

Founder’s Vision and Sustainability Plans

Ms. Elle Yang, founder and executive director of Love Binti International, shared her vision of empowering African men and women through vocational training to combat unemployment. Initially offering fully sponsored programs, she introduced a co-funding model this year due to rising enrollment.

“Instead of giving you fish, I wanted to teach you how to catch it. These skills, if used well, can change your life,” she affirmed.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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Prof. Buyinza Launches Pedagogy and Professionalism Training for Academic Staff

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Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (Seated Third Left) with participants on 11th December 2024. Inaugural comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing the pedagogical and professional competencies of its academic staff, 11th-14th December 2024, Fairway Hotel, organized by the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), facilitated by the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (CTLS), College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

December 11, 2024

Makerere University has embarked on a comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing the pedagogical and professional competencies of its academic staff. The inaugural training, organized by the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), was officially launched by Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza at Fairway Hotel. The training is facilitated by a team from the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (CTLS) at the College of Education and External Studies (CEES).

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi makes his remarks. Inaugural comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing the pedagogical and professional competencies of its academic staff, 11th-14th December 2024, Fairway Hotel, organized by the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), facilitated by the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (CTLS), College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Buyinza emphasized the urgent need for retooling academic staff in light of emerging challenges such as artificial intelligence (AI) and evolving teaching technologies. “The digital era has reshaped how we teach and learn. We must equip our staff with the necessary pedagogical skills and ethical professionalism to remain at the forefront of higher education,” he said.

Left to Right: Dr. Dorothy Kyagaba Ssebowa, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga and Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. Inaugural comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing the pedagogical and professional competencies of its academic staff, 11th-14th December 2024, Fairway Hotel, organized by the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), facilitated by the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (CTLS), College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, one of the lead facilitators, highlighted that the training goes beyond teaching techniques, focusing on developing reflective and adaptive educators. “University teaching today demands more than subject expertise. It requires an intentional blend of pedagogical knowledge, ethical standards, and technological competence,” he remarked.

Participants follow proceedings during the workshop. Inaugural comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing the pedagogical and professional competencies of its academic staff, 11th-14th December 2024, Fairway Hotel, organized by the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), facilitated by the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (CTLS), College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The University Pedagogy and Professionalism Course was designed in response to gaps identified in higher education teaching. According to the course guidelines, many academic staff possess deep subject-matter expertise but lack structured training in pedagogy and andragogy, essential for effective knowledge transfer.

Participants follow proceedings during the workshop. Inaugural comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing the pedagogical and professional competencies of its academic staff, 11th-14th December 2024, Fairway Hotel, organized by the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), facilitated by the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (CTLS), College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Participants will engage in an intensive curriculum covering themes such as educational theory, professional ethics, teaching models, assessment strategies, and the integration of emerging technologies. The course, guided by the National Council for Higher Education’s strategic plan, aims to foster continuous professional development among university educators.

Participants follow proceedings during the workshop. Inaugural comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing the pedagogical and professional competencies of its academic staff, 11th-14th December 2024, Fairway Hotel, organized by the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), facilitated by the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (CTLS), College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Prof. Buyinza concluded by reiterating Makerere University’s commitment to nurturing competent and ethically grounded educators. “This initiative reflects our dedication to academic excellence and our role in shaping the future of higher education in Uganda and beyond.”

The training is expected to run in phases, ensuring that all academic staff receive the essential skills needed to enhance the university’s teaching and learning environment.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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U.S Ambassador William Popp calls on universities to build active citizens

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The U.S Ambassador to Uganda William W. Popp, has called on institutions of higher learning to groom and shape active citizens. The ambassador was delivering a keynote address at the Annual Prof. William Senteza Kajubi Fulbright Memorial Lecture, held on Thursday October 3, 2024 at Makerere University’s Yusuf Lule Auditorium.

“Higher education is not just about earning degrees; it is about cultivating the skills and values that create active, engaged citizens who can contribute to a better world,” H.E. William W. Popp said.

Chairperson Mak Council Mrs. Lorna Magara(2nd L), Amb. William Popp, Ms Amy Petersen, and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe after a short meeting.

Ambassador Popp emphasized the crucial role universities play in nurturing responsible citizens. By fostering debate, advocacy and governance participation, universities equip students with the tools needed for leadership in their communities and beyond. “Universities are essential for promoting civic participation, critical thinking, and informed citizenship—key components of a healthy democracy. A vibrant democracy relies on citizens who can engage constructively and peacefully with each other and their leaders,” he explained.

Ambassador William W. Popp(2nd L),Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe,, Amy Petersen walk to the venue for the Public Lecture after a courtesy call on Vice Chancellor.

He elaborated on how universities contribute to civic education by offering courses in disciplines like political science, history, and sociology. These programs inform students about democratic systems, civil rights, and global issues, while also providing platforms for interaction with current and former political leaders, he said.

Mr. Wasswa Kajubi (flanked by family members) speaking on behalf of the family of Senteza Kajubi.

Ambassador Popp highlighted the importance of fostering critical thinking and debate. “By engaging in discussions around complex issues, students learn to form informed opinions and engage in responsible democratic discourse.” He noted that universities empower individuals through education, internships, and student councils, laying the groundwork for active and informed citizenship. “History shows that universities are incubators of social movements, where students challenge the status quo and advocate for policies that benefit society.”

Panel discussants

Dr. Pamela Tibihikirra-Kalyegira, Director of the Law Development Centre, reinforced these points by outlining three core roles of universities: teaching, applied research, and community engagement. “We must reflect on how well we are fulfilling these responsibilities,” she urged, encouraging students to adopt a lifelong learning mindset and recognize that no one can know everything.

Panel Discussants, Dr. Pamela Tibihikirra(2nd L) Dr. Ruth Biyinzika(2nd R) and Guild President Vincent Nsamba(Extreme Right).

Dr. Ruth Biyinzika, Coordinator of the GROW Project at the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), shared insights on various opportunities available to students that can help them navigate their career paths. She also called on parents to actively engage in shaping their children’s educational journeys before they transition to higher education institutions.

Amb. Wasswa Birigwa, a politician and businessman contribute to the discussion.

In honoring the legacy of Prof. Senteza Kajubi, Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe praised him as one of Uganda’s most influential educationists. A two-time Vice Chancellor and the first Fulbright from Uganda, Prof. Kajubi opened doors for many African students to benefit from the Fulbright scholarship. Prof. Nawangwe recalled his personal friendship with Kajubi, highlighting the wisdom he gained from him.

During Uganda’s struggle with the HIV/AIDS epidemic, Prof. Kajubi played a pivotal role in establishing a partnership between Makerere University and Case Western Reserve University in the U.S., which helped train staff to manage the crisis. “The first COVID-19 testing kits we received at Mulago Hospital were donated by Case Western Reserve University—400,000 free kits,” noted Prof. Nawangwe, emphasizing the enduring impact of Prof. Kajubi’s contributions to Makerere University and Uganda.

Ambassador Popp in a group photo with Senteza Kajubi Family, Mak Management and panelists.

Through these discussions, the lecture underscored the vital role of higher education in not only developing individual capabilities but also fostering a more engaged and informed citizenry, ultimately contributing to a stronger democracy.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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