General
Chancellor Calls for Appreciation of Global Interconnectedness at 4th Kampala Geopolitics Launch
The Chancellor, Prof. Ezra Suruma while delivering his remarks at the opening ceremony of the Fourth Edition of the Kampala Geopolitics Conference has called for reflection on how COVID-19 demonstrated our interconnectedness as a human race, hence the need to work more closely together. The ceremony held in the Central Teaching Facility 2 (CTF 2) Auditorium on 10th November 2021 marked the beginning of the three-day conference on the theme; Crisis and Opportunity: Mapping the Geopolitical Importance of Africa.
“I am delighted to note that we indeed have people from many continents and as I was reflecting on this topic, it became clearer to me that indeed we live in one world. We may have lines drawn on the map and say this is Uganda, this is DRC and this is Egypt but these are lines on paper. In reality, we live in one global world” remarked Prof. Suruma.
He observed that the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the globe and the struggle to combat it through vaccination had led to a rise in vaccine nationalism. Prof. Suruma was therefore happy to learn that this topic would be discussed in depth at the conference.
The Chancellor further said that Uganda, given its location as a landlocked nation and the political developments in surrounding countries has a keen interest in geopolitics.
“Our hosting of large numbers of refugees, for example, is clear evidence of this fact. Geopolitics therefore is not a matter of indifference for Uganda. As seen historically and in contemporary history, Uganda has a great deal to ponder” said Prof. Suruma.
He thanked the partners Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, the French Embassy in Uganda, French Institute for International and Strategic Affairs, UN Women Uganda and Alliance Française for their commitment to ensuring that this important conference is held annually.
“And thank you especially for choosing Makerere University. We appreciate this vote of confidence at this time that Makerere is celebrating 100 years of service to Uganda and to the world. This year-long celebration through a series of events will be an occasion to reflect on our achievements, our successes and our failures in the past century. It will also an opportunity to lay strategies for the future” shared the Chancellor.
In his address, the Ambasssador of France to Uganda, H.E. Jules-Armand Aniambossou noted that as Makerere University commemorates 100 years of existence, the topic on Re-imagining Higher Education for the Post-COVID-19 Era would be of special interest to the institution and conference.
“This specific panel will open up an opportunity to re-imagine the future of Education for Africa in the context of the global family especially through the lens of digitalisation” added the Ambassador.
H.E. Aniambossou reminded the audience that one of the main ideas behind the Kampala Geopolitics Conference was to promote freedom of speech. “And I believe that as every challenge brings an opportunity, this year’s hybrid edition will enable us to give the chance to more people to enjoy this freedom of speech by interacting both physically and virtually with our guest panelists.”
The opening ceremony was also addressed by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Country Representative, Ms. Anna Reismann who noted that a university does not exist in a vacuum but is embedded into society and has impact on its development, just as society has an impact on the institution’s life.
“Therefore, also my congratulations on successful 100 years of navigating Makerere University through different political challenges, social developments and surely, some administrative constraints. Looking into the future of the university, one is certain the challenges might change but they will also always remain” said Ms. Reismann.
Turning to the Conference theme, she noted that the crises caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the opportunities that are arising from it have placed Africa as an important region on the global map. She added that Africa is an important player in the peace and security dialogue, as an investment destination and trading partner, as a contender in addressing global challenges as well as an arena where different powers compete for influence.
Still on the topic of influence, Ms. Sylvie Matelly, Deputy Director of the French Institute for International and Strategic Affairs (IRIS) who addressed the conference virtually admitted that it was a source of great pride for her institution, that their annual conference on contemporary international relations held in Nantes, France had birthed the idea of an annual Kampala Geopolitics Conference.
“Moreover, people used to think that because of the complexity of such topics the debate is just a private one but we are privileged that this is a public one and that is exactly why the Geopolitics of Kampala is a success year after year and I hope it will continue for a long time” remarked Ms. Matelly.
“After a very difficult period, we are pleased that we can again hold this event in person at Makerere University as we approach the 100 year celebration of the University as well as the 30th year since the foundation of Makerere University School of Women and Gender Studies” said Ms. Adekemi Ndieli, Deputy Country Representative UN Women, Uganda as she commenced her remarks.
Quoting the former US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, Ms. Ndieli said “The world is wasting a precious resource as the dramatic underrepresentation of women which results in exclusion of talents and skills in the economy.”
She therefore said that the Kampala Geopolitics Conference is an important opportunity for UN Women to elevate women’s voices and hear their input and solutions across a broad range of topics. The topics range from climate action to feminist movements building to transitional justice and to engagement in outer space. The elevation, she noted, should be viewed in the light that gender equality is not only a pressing moral or social imperative but is a critical economic challenge.
“Ladies and gentlemen, we are living in unprecedented times as we all know and the COVID-19 pandemic has presented us one of the greatest challenges of our generation. Beyond the virus itself the response to COVID-19 has exposed deep inequalities in our societies and in global partnerships across the world” she added.
Ms. Ndieli continued to say that whereas COVID-19 had had disproportionate and devastating effects on social and economic life, these effects were more pronounced among the most vulnerable and as such, had tested the ability of states to come together to address the global challenges. “However, it has also presented us with unprecedented opportunities to build back better.”
The opening ceremony was followed by a panel discussion on Re-imagining Higher Education for the Post-COVID-19 Era, where the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe was joined by Ms. Sylvie Matelly, Mr. Benjamin Rukwengye, Founder and CEO – Boundless Minds Uganda and Moderator Mr. James Kassaga , ED and Co-Founder – Teach for Uganda.
The Vice Chancellor shared that through partnerships with international collaborators, Makerere University had built a formidable force of academics that do research in all areas, and in the case of COVID-19, were very much aware of issues to do with online education.
“Online education is the future, even without the pandemic” said Prof. Nawangwe. “If Uganda’s population doubles, with the infrastructure we have now, we cannot take in all those children who will be seeking higher education” he added.
Prof. Nawangwe said the university had taken advantage of the resources it had to train all staff in online education as well as alternative methods of education. This, he said, had ensured that Makerere had not suffered as much as the rest of the Ugandan education sector during COVID-19.
“We as the leading university have got the responsibility and obligation to support the other universities and other institutions to come out of this. And we are currently working with organizations around the world to train our colleagues at other universities on online education” said Prof. Nawangwe.
This panel was followed by another on Vaccine Nationalism and Diplomacy in the Times of the Pandemic, moderated by Dr. Milton Mutto, a Global Health Research Scientist. Panelists included Ms. Anne Senequier (IRIS), Dr. Alfred Driwale (MoH), Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, Dean, Makerere University School of Public Health, Dr. Olaf Wientzek (KAS Geneva) and Mr. Andrew Bakainanga (WHO).
Prof. Wanyenze in her submission had noted that the struggle of who wins the vaccine war had given rise to a vaccine infodemic characterized by misinformation about the efficacy of some vaccines, resulting in their rejection by some sections of the public.
Touching on vaccine equity, she noted that up to 90% of the world vaccine market is controlled by a few companies, resulting in scarcity of vaccines such as the Covid-19 one, even for nations that had the money to purchase them.
“We talked about test kits for COVID-19. At the beginning you could hardly get them and buy them even when you had the money on the table. It was just the same dynamics as what you see for the COVID-19 vaccines. The same is true for the new COVID-19 drugs” she shared.
The Fourth Edition of the Kampala Geopolitics Conference that runs until Friday 12th November 2021 has adopted the format of Twitter Spaces at 12:30 PM on Day 1 and Day 2 as well as at 7:00 PM on all three days.
Join the Conversation using the #KampalaGeopolitics hashtag.
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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