Connect with us

General

Mak Contributes UGX80M to Church House Campaign

Published

on

Members of the Makerere University University Community from all denominations responded to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe’s call and together, made a resounding contribution of approximately UGX 80 Million in favour of the Church House Fundraising Campaign dubbed “Yes, We Can!”. The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, His Grace The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu who launched the Fundraising Campaign on 6th June 2021 visited Makerere University on 20th December 2021 to officially receive Mak’s contribution from the Vice Chancellor. The Archbishop was accompanied by the Provincial Secretary, Rev. Canon Captain William Ongeng.

Welcoming the Archbishop on his first official visit to Makerere, the Vice Chancellor thanked His Grace for standing with the University through good and bad times, by ministering twice at St. Francis Chapel and visiting the Main Building site following fire of 20th September 2020 respectively.

“I want to thank you for that great show of solidarity and being the first major religious leader to visit us as far as the tragedy of the burning of the Main Building is concerned. We do not take that for granted, it shows that we are in your prayers” echoed the Vice Chancellor.

Prof. Nawangwe informed that Archbishop that Makerere launched celebrations to mark 100 years of impacting society on 25th November 2021 and extended an invitation to him to the climax of the celebrations in October 2022. Turning to the purpose of the visit, the Vice Chancellor said:

“You appointed me coordinator of efforts to mobilise the UGX 200 Million quota from all academic institutions towards the Love Gift for the emancipation of the Church House. I have contacted most of the Vice Chancellors and they are supportive” remarked Prof. Nawangwe.

The Vice Chancellor informed the Archbishop that the leaders had agreed to each bring their institutional contribution on a separate occasion, hence the day’s meeting.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (L) hands over the Love Gift mobilised from members of the Makerere University Community of all denominations to His Grace The Archbishop Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu (R) on 20th December 2021.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (L) hands over the Love Gift mobilised from members of the Makerere University Community of all denominations to His Grace The Archbishop Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu (R) on 20th December 2021.

“Today, Makerere University is very privileged to receive you because although we had requested to come to your Office, you graciously asked to come to the Campus in person and we want to very sincerely thank you for that” remarked the Vice Chancellor to thunderous applause from the audience.

Present during the meeting with the Archbishop were some of the coordinators appointed by the Vice Chancellor to reach out to the Makerere University Community on his behalf. They included; Rev. Can. Onesimus Asiimwe-Chaplain St. Francis Chapel, Dr. Chrisitine Mbabazi Mpyangu-College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Dr. Paul Birevu Muyinda-College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Dr. Sylvia Nannyonga Tamusuza-CHUSS, Dr. Robinah Kulabako-College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Dr. Helen Byamugisha-University Librarian, Prof. Florence Mutonyi D’Ujanga-College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and Prof. Moses Joloba-College of Health Sciences (CHS).

The Vice Chancellor thanked the coordinators present for accepting the assignment, noting that this display of solidarity was clear evidence that the targets set by the Church House Fundraising Drive can be achieved.

“Let me begin by appreciating God, from whom all blessings flow and to thank Him for the gift of life He has given us, especially when oxygen has been acknowledged as a very precious gift from God.

“My friend the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, I want to appreciate you for accepting the call to be part of the mobilisers of the resources we need to clear our debt, but also, by God’s grace for appointing very capable co-mobilisers. Thank you very much” commenced the Archbishop as made his acceptance remarks.

He appreciated the Chaplain, Rev. Can. Asiimwe and staff present for the oneness exhibited not only during the Fundraising Campaign but also other in aspects such as teaching the students.

The Archbishop prayed that all the plans to restore the iconic Main Building would be successfully executed, owing to the nostalgia that it evoked from visitors to Makerere, especially during graduation ceremonies, as it towers over the Freedom Square.

“We thank God for saving lives, because lives could have perished in the fire” he added.

The Provincial Secretary Rev. Canon Captain William Ongeng (R) moves a vote of thanks to the Vice Chancellor and members of the Makerere University Community.
The Provincial Secretary Rev. Canon Captain William Ongeng (R) moves a vote of thanks to the Vice Chancellor and members of the Makerere University Community.

Reading from 1 Corinthians 3:9

For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building

1 Corinthians 3:9, New international version (NIV)

For we are fellow workmen (joint promoters, laborers together) with and for God; you are God’s garden and vineyard and field under cultivation, [you are] God’s building.

1 Corinthians 3:9, Amplified Bible, Classic Edition

The Archbishop reminded all present that we are co-workers in God’s service. “Can you imagine? Isn’t that great? Who am I to be a co-labourer with God and we are joint promoters… Isn’t this really a privilege?” pondered His Grace as his audience chorused “yes” in agreement.

Turning to Isaiah 6:8, the Archbishop further reminded his audience that God who sent them to do His work is the One who rewards.

Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?”

And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”

Isaiah 6:8, New International Version (NIV)

“When you are sent to do an assignment, not everyone will be happy, especially the business of collecting resources… and so may God bless you so much for the good work you have done” remarked the Archbishop. “When you take time out to do God’s work, God also takes time to attend to your things as well, and that is my prayer for you, that God will attend to your many things” he added.

After the Provincial Secretary, Rev. Can. Captain Ongeng had moved a vote of thanks to the Vice Chancellor and Members of the Makerere University community, the Archbishop led his audience in the words of How Great Thou Art and thereafter, said the benediction.

Mark Wamai

General

Change of Course/Programme for Undergraduate Admissions 2025/2026

Published

on

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

Continue Reading

General

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

Published

on

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

Continue Reading

General

Makerere University Hosts Delegation from Ghent University Association

Published

on

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) presents a Makerere Coffee Table book to Prof. Mieke Van Herreweghe during the visit on 27th August 2025. Makerere University hosted a delegation from the Ghent University Association where a student exchange agreement was signed, led by Prof. Mieke Van Herreweghe, Vice Rector of Ghent University. The delegation included representatives from Howest University and Hogent University of Applied Sciences, 27th August 2025 Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University has hosted a delegation from the Ghent University Association, led by Prof. Mieke Van Herreweghe, Vice Rector of Ghent University. The delegation included representatives from Howest University and Hogent University of Applied Sciences.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe welcomed the team and highlighted Makerere University’s commitment to addressing the pressing challenges in the region. These include climate change, which continues to hinder investment, and Uganda’s rapidly growing population that has surged from 5 million in the late 1940s to nearly 50 million currently, creating socio-economic challenges such as high youth unemployment.

He emphasized that Makerere’s research agenda focuses on understanding the fast-growing population, tackling health challenges, advancing governance and human rights, and fostering peace through initiatives such as the Rotary Peace Center—the only one of its kind on the African continent. Research at Makerere also seeks to provide solutions to youth unemployment in one of the world’s youngest nations.

The meeting of Members of Management and the visiting delegation in session in the Vice Chancellor's Boardroom. Makerere University hosted a delegation from the Ghent University Association where a student exchange agreement was signed, led by Prof. Mieke Van Herreweghe, Vice Rector of Ghent University. The delegation included representatives from Howest University and Hogent University of Applied Sciences, 27th August 2025 Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The meeting of Members of Management and the visiting delegation in session in the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom.

The Vice Chancellor further noted that Makerere University teaches and conducts research across a wide spectrum of disciplines, organized into colleges including Agriculture, Business and Management, Computing, Education and External Studies, Engineering and Technology, Health Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine. The university also hosts over 60 specialized research centers, among them Centers of Excellence such as the Regional Centre for Crop Improvement, which works to enhance food security, manage pests and diseases, and improve agricultural productivity. Another key institution is the Infectious Diseases Institute, which leads research on HIV/AIDS. With these initiatives, he added, Makerere continues to expand its research footprint while strengthening global partnerships.

Prof. Van Herreweghe provided an overview of Ghent University, founded in 1817 and ranked among the top 100 universities globally for decades. With its motto “Dare to think,” Ghent University has built a strong international reputation. It also holds the distinction of being the only Belgian, and currently the only European, university with a campus in South Korea. Established in 2014, the campus offers bachelor’s programs in applied biotechnology.

She highlighted Ghent’s joint PhD programs, which are structured as sandwich programs to support African universities. Under this arrangement, PhD candidates spend two years funded at Ghent University and another two years at their home university (such as Makerere), with joint supervision from both institutions. These programs, she noted, are a strategic way of fostering international collaboration.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Prof. Mieke Van Herreweghe pose for a group photo with members of their respective teams at the Main Building entrance. Makerere University hosted a delegation from the Ghent University Association where a student exchange agreement was signed, led by Prof. Mieke Van Herreweghe, Vice Rector of Ghent University. The delegation included representatives from Howest University and Hogent University of Applied Sciences, 27th August 2025 Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Prof. Mieke Van Herreweghe pose for a group photo with members of their respective teams at the Main Building entrance.

During the visit, Ghent University signed a Student Exchange Agreement with Makerere University to complement the existing Memorandum of Understanding. The agreement will pave the way for more joint initiatives and strengthen collaboration in the years ahead.

The delegation also included Mr. Lieven Theys, International Coordinator for Business Management at Howest University, who explained that Howest clusters its programs into three key domains: Design and Technology, Human Well-being and Health, and Business and Organization. Dr. Robin Stevens represented Hogent University of Applied Sciences, which runs programs across nine schools including Business and Management, Computer Sciences, Biosciences, Industrial Technology, Teacher Training, and Healthcare.

The visit, held on 27th August 2025, was attended by Makerere University officials and members of various colleges, among them Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) and Principal of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Prof. Tonny Oyana-Principal College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Prof. Moses Musinguzi-Principal College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Prof. Julius Kikooma-Director Graduate Training, Assoc. Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze-Deputy Principal College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Assoc. Prof. James Wokadala-Deputy Principal College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Assoc. Prof. Richard Idro-Deputy Principal College of Health Sciences, and Dr. Cathy Mbidde, Manager of the Makerere University Innovation Pod (Mak UniPod).

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

Continue Reading

Trending