The Principal Investigator, Dr Perpetra Akite presents an overview of their research project during the launch on 18th November 2021, NaLIRRI, Nakyesasa, Wakiso District.
The products from stingless bees may be little but are so valuable. Stingless bees have many benefits to various sectors of the economy, more especially the Health and Agricultural sectors. The project titled – “Exploring Forage Resources for Stingless Bees in Uganda: The Case of Meliponula bocandei”seeks to preserve them and to maximize their benefits to the economy.
The Commissioner Entomology at the MAAIF, Mr. Lawrence Tusimomuhangi addressing participants.
Launch of the project
Researchers from the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University on 18th November 2021 launched a project to explore forage resources for Stingless bees in Uganda, with special focus on the Meliponula bocandei species. The launch held at the National Livestock Resources Research Institute (NaLIRRI) in Nakyesasa, Wakiso District was presided over by the Commissioner, Entomology at the Ministry of Agricultural, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), Mr Lawrence Tusimomuhangi. It was grace by among others, the current Head, Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, Dr. Eric Sande, and former heads, Prof. William Banage, Prof. Gilbert Isabirye Basuta and Prof. Anne Mary Akol.
Objectives of the project
Supported by the Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF), the project seeks to profile forage resources for Meliponula bocandei in the Western highlands and Lake Victoria Crescent AEZs of Uganda. It also aims to characterize pollen in honey of Meliponula bocandei collected from the Western highlands and Lake Victoria Crescent AEZs of Uganda. Under the project, the researchers plan to develop a Meliponula bocandei beekeeping calendar for Uganda. Once developed, the beekeeping calendar will guide farmers on the approximate date and duration of the blossoming periods of the important honey and pollen plants in their area, and the kind of flowers available for the bees in the course of the year.
Participants at the Meliponary at NaLIRRI.
The study follows two previous research projects that sought to domesticate stingless bees in Uganda and to explore the nutritional and medicinal values of their products.
According to the research team, stingless bees present enormous benefits to the Health and Agricultural Sectors. Their products have high nutritional and medicinal values. The pollination services associated with the stingless beekeeping industry can boost crop production especially in the urban settings. The stingless beekeeping industry also has great potential to generate employment. However, the continued destruction of the environment through deforestation and soil pollution presents a major challenge to the survival of the bees since they feed on restricted plant species. It is on this basis that the researchers have set out to study and preserve forage resources for stingless bees.
One of the stingless beehives at the Meliponary at NaLIRRI.
Expected outcomes
Presenting an outline of their study, the Principal Investigator, Dr Perpetra Akite said the project will largely contribute to the development of the stingless beekeeping industry in Uganda. “The project will impact positively at several frontiers, especially on the role played by stingless bees in crop pollination for food security. Scientists and other key actors will benefit from the knowledge generated from this action research on the identification of forage for stingless bees in Africa, and the economy will largely improve due to increased participation in stingless bee enterprises,” she noted. Other expected outcomes include; a baseline information and platform for developing stingless bee forage in Uganda, a stingless beekeeping calendar to promote meliponiculture and improvement in livelihoods.
Government expectations
Addressing participants, the Commissioner, Entomology at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Mr. Lawrence Tusimomuhangi applauded the researchers for the initiative. “The Government is deeply interested in insect related interventions. However, many questions in the area of entomology remain unanswered. There is need for substantive research into productive insects and Makerere should lead on this.We need to invent technologies for continuous production of insects like grasshoppers that have high commercial benefits. The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries is relying on Makerere and other research institutions to guide on the development of appropriate technologies for insect management interventions, and the promotion of agro industrialization in line with the National Development Plan III,” he explained. NDP III seeks to promote sustainable industrialization for inclusive growth, employment and wealth creation.
The researchers together with former and current members of staff pose for a photo with the Commissioner Entomology, Mr Lawrence Tusimomuhangi at the Meliponary at NaLIRRI.
Proposals by participants
During the engagements, participants observed that there was need to study the behaviour of stingless bees at different locations (adaption to the environment) and variations in seasons before designing the beekeeping calendar. They also noted that it is important to collect data during both the dry and wet seasons for better results. Additionally, participants called for studies on the toxicological effects of agrochemicals on stingless bees.
In his remarks, the Head, Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences at Makerere University, Dr Eric Sande commended the research team for writing a successful project. He appreciated the Government of Uganda for the enormous support towards research activities at Makerere. “Exploring Forage Resources for Stingless Bees in Uganda: A Case of Meliponula bocandei” is one of over 700 projects that have so far been supported by the Government of Uganda through Mak-RIF.
The Head, Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences at Makerere University, Dr. Eric Sande (3rd L) and the PI Dr. Perpetra Akite (2nd L) with former Heads, Prof. William Banage (3rd R), Prof. Gilbert Isabirye Basuta (2nd L) and Prof. Anne Mary Akol (L) at the project launch.
Additionally, Dr Sande acknowledged the presence of the former heads at the event and their continued support towards the development of the Department.
About NaLIRRI
Briefing participants on the NaLIRRI, the representative of the Director, Dr Patrice Kasangaki appreciated the long standing collaboration between the Institute and Makerere University Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences. The Department has collaborated with the NaLIRRI on several research projects and continues to offer practical training as well as supervision of students. NaLIRRI supported the department in research on domesticating stingless bees and exploring the nutritional and medicinal values of their products. The Institute has pledged support for the current project aimed at exploring forage resources for stingless bees in Uganda.
As part of the project launch activities, participants toured the Meliponary at NaLIRRI to learn more about the preservation of stingless bees.
ECO-INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES FOR IMPROVED NUTRITION, SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION AND MARKETING OF AGRO- ECOLOGICAL FOOD PRODUCTS IN AFRICA (INNOECOFOOD)
A. BACKGROUND
The Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences (ZEFS), was awarded a contract under the European Union-funded project: Eco-Innovative Technologies for Improved Nutrition, Sustainable Production and Marketing of Agro- ecological Food Products in Africa (INNOECOFOOD). ZEFS is implementing INNOECOFOOD in collaboration with the Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology.
The overall goal of INNOECOFOOD is to promote sustainable production, processing, marketing and consumption of nutritious aquaculture fish, Spirulina, and selected insect value chains through innovative, climate-smart technologies. Among other outputs, the project will train rural farmers, youth and women to innovatively produce and process the fish, fish feeds and develop nutritious-rich products. The project is offering research support to three continuing MSc candidate to work on formulation and evaluation of novel nutritious-rich products from fish byproducts, Spirulina and selected insect species. The formulated products will be based on selected carbohydrates and protein ingredients and made in the form of soup, porridge and energy bars. Please note that additional aspects of the research areas will be availed to the successful applicants.
B. RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP
Applications are invited from continuing students of MSc in Biochemistry to conduct research in the area indicated above. The Fellowship will support the successful candidates with research costs and modest stipend for a period of about six months.
C. ELIGIBILITY
Applicants MUST be duly registered for the Academic year 2024/25 for the afore-mentioned MSc. programme.
Females and candidates with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply.
Applicants must provide evidence of successful progress in their coursework and exams.
D. APPLICATION PROCESS
The application package should include:
One-page motivation letter.
2-3-page Concept Note on the research topic of interest.
Curriculum vitae (maximum 2 pages).
Copies of academic documents.
Evidence of registration for the MSc. in Biochemistry programme.
Recommendation letters from two academic referees.
E. SUBMISSION
Applications should be compiled into a single PDF file and submitted electronically to the Head of Department, – Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, Dr. G. Kawooya Kubiriza (godfrey.kubiriza@mak.ac.ug), copied to the Head of Department Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Dr. Agnes Nandutu Masawi (agnes.nandutu@mak.ac.ug) and Project Administrator, Ms. Catherine Nanyonga (ngenevive@gmail.com) by the deadline of 25 April, 2025, 5:00pm.
The Ugandan government has increasingly recognized the critical role of science education in driving the nation’s economic development. As such, it has put in place deliberate policies aimed at popularizing science education in schools. This initiative seeks to equip the youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute effectively to the country’s development. Since 2004, science education has been made compulsory in lower secondary schools, and the Uganda Government has continuously emphasized the importance of science and technology through policies like the National Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Policy, introduced in 2009. These policies aim to create a strong foundation for the country’s “Transformation for Prosperity,” focusing on technological innovation and development. The introduction of astronomy and space science as part of the curriculum supports this vision, offering students the tools to explore scientific concepts that will drive future innovation.
The PI, Prof. Florence D’Ujanga addressing participants at the project dissemination workshop held at Makerere on 21st March 2025
About the Project – Use of Astronomy and Space Science to Promote Science Education in Schools
In an initiative geared towards bolstering science education in Uganda, Makerere University Department of Physics is leveraging the wonders of astronomy and space science to ignite curiosity and enthusiasm among learners. The project, led by Prof. Florence Mutonyi D’ujanga from the Department of Physics has reached 10 schools in Kampala, Luwero, and Mukono districts, using the vast universe to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and mathematicians. The astronomy outreach activities have impacted numerous schools across different regions in Uganda. The initiative started during the COVID-19 lockdown, with initial outreach to nearby schools in Kampala. As the programme gained momentum, it expanded to various districts, benefiting students from both primary and secondary levels. The schools that have participated in the programme include, Kampala: Makerere College School and Makerere CoU Primary School, Luwero: Mulusa Academy (Wobulenzi), Wobulenzi Bright Parents, Janan Luwum S.S., and Janan Luwum Nursery & P/S, MUkono: Our Lady of Africa S.S., Kyesereka CoU P/S, Mpoma Royal College, and Mpoma Junior School.
Pupils of Wobulenzi Bright Parents in a Planetarium show at the Department of Physics shortly before the dissemination event held on 21st March 2025.Students of Makerere College School participated in the project.Students of MACOS with their Physics teacher after the Planetarium show at the Department of Physics.
Aims and Objectives of the Project
Funded by the Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), the central aim of this initiative was to use astronomy and space science to capture the imagination of students, encouraging them to embrace the study of science and mathematics. “By engaging students in hands-on, interactive learning activities, the project seeks to improve their performance in these critical subjects. The initiative focuses on making science enjoyable, accessible, and inspiring, fostering a positive attitude toward the subject from an early age,” explained Prof. D’ujanga.
Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Principal of CoNAS, also Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration at Makerere University presided over the dissemination event. He emphasized the importance of early exposure for children to develop an appreciation for science.Students from the participating schools at the dissemination workshop.
Activities conducted
The project began with a questionnaire to assess the students’ initial understanding of astronomy, followed by tailored outreach activities that addressed gaps in knowledge and sparked excitement about the subject. The activities included;
Telescope Assembly: Students learned to assemble telescopes using local materials, helping them gain a hands-on understanding of how astronomy tools function.
Sky Viewing: Students had the opportunity to observe celestial bodies like stars, planets, and constellations, experiencing the universe up close.
Cultural Astronomy Storytelling: This component introduced students to the rich cultural narratives surrounding astronomy, linking science with history and tradition.
Astronomy Quiz Sessions: Fun, educational quizzes challenged students’ knowledge of astronomy, stimulating a deeper interest in the subject.
Planetarium Shows: The project also featured immersive planetarium shows, which are a highlight for many students. These shows provided an exciting visual experience, where learners could see projections of stars, planets, and other celestial phenomena. The planetarium is at the heart of this outreach programme. Traditionally used for educational purposes in the field of astronomy, the planetarium has a hemispheric domed ceiling, which serves as a projection screen for images of celestial objects. The immersive environment fosters curiosity and excitement among learners, laying a solid foundation for further study in science. One of the main objectives of the planetarium shows is to break down the myth that sciences are difficult. By using visual and interactive methods, the project demonstrates that learning about space and the universe can be both fun and inspiring.
On behalf of MakRIF, Dr. Mercy Rebekah Amiyo expressed appreciation to the research team for their invaluable initiative in promoting the study of science.
Project research dissemination event
On 21st March 2025, the project team hosted a dissemination event at Makerere University to present and share their research findings. The event was presided over by Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Principal of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration at Makerere University. The event was attended by students, school administrators, as well as representatives from MakRIF and the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation. In her address, the Project Principal Investigator (PI), Prof. Florence D’ujanga, emphasized the importance of sparking curiosity in students to encourage them to pursue scientific studies. “By making astronomy and space science more accessible and engaging, this project seeks to inspire greater interest in science education, ultimately benefiting Uganda’s long-term development in critical fields such as technology, engineering, and mathematics,” she explained.
On behalf of MakRIF, Dr. Mercy Rebekah Amiyo expressed appreciation to the research team for their invaluable initiative in promoting the study of science through astronomy. Dr. Amiyo praised the team’s dedication to making complex scientific concepts more engaging. She called upon the project team to secure property rights and take proactive steps toward the commercialization of the project.
In his remarks, the Guest of Honour, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta emphasized the importance of nurturing scientists who understand principles rather than simply memorizing frameworks. He emphasized the importance of early exposure for children to develop an appreciation for science. He expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for its continued support towards research activities at Makerere University.
Students from the participating schools during the workshop.
Testimonies by students
Sharing their testimonies about the project, Jonathan Mugabi and James Tanzinge, both S.4 students at Makerere College School, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity it provided. They noted that the project had ignited a newfound passion for research, significantly expanding their interest in exploring scientific topics. Through their participation, they were introduced to essential scientific vocabulary, which has helped to deepen their understanding of complex concepts. Additionally, the project exposed them to cutting-edge technology, fostering a sense of excitement and curiosity about the role of innovation in science. As a result, both students have developed a strong desire to continue their studies in the sciences at a higher level, inspired by the hands-on experiences and knowledge they gained from this initiative.
Students of Makerere College School sharing testimonies about the relevance of the project.A pupil of Kyesereka CoU P/S blessed the event with a prayer.Each of the participating schools received a certificate in appreciation of their contribution to the project.Mr. Kivumbi, Physics teacher at MACOS receiving a certificate on behalf of the School.The Headteacher of Makerere Primary School receiving a certificate.The best performer at secondary school level is a student of Our Lady of Africa S.S.The best performer at Primary School level receiving his award.
Click on the link below for the pictorial of the dissemination conference;
Makerere University (MAK) in collaboration with Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) and Regional Universities Forum (for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) are implementing a five-year CoSTClim project (Collaborative Action for Strengthening Training Capacities in Climate Risk and Natural Resource management). The main goal of the project is to improve the quality of training, education and research at the partner institutions with a dedicated focus on climate risk, disaster risk management and natural resource management. CoSTClim builds on a range of other capacity development projects funded by the Norwegian Government at the partner institutions, and has a specific focus on education.
One of the components of CoSTClim is student mobility from Uganda to Norway and from Norway to Uganda. Therefore, we are inviting applicants from Makerere University and Uganda Martyrs University for Masters student mobility scholarships to NTNU for the Autumn semester in 2025. There are five mobility scholarship slots available for this year. The scholarship will cover 5 months (August-December 2025) stay at NTNU in Trondheim, Norway. The successful candidates can enroll in selected course units at NTNU as well as leveraging the stay to write their master’s thesis. The width and breadth of available course units from which the candidates can select are found: https://www.ntnu.edu/geography/exchange-students.
Limited research supervision will also be given by NTNU staff but the primary supervision responsibility stays with the allocated supervisors at Makerere University or Uganda Martyrs University.
Application procedure is in the document below. The deadline is Friday 28th February 2025.