Undergraduate students attend a field petroleum geology class in the Albertine Graben, Great Rift Valley, Western Uganda. Photo credit: Makerere University AAPG/SEG Student Chapters.
Call for Applications for Masters and PhD Scholarships Tenable at Makerere University (MAK), Kyambogo University (KYU) and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in collaboration with University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU) under The APPEAR Academic Partnership Project ‘Environmental Chemistry for Sustainable Development (ECSDevelop)’
Project background
East Africa faces serious environmental challenges in relation to atmospheric, soil and water pollution. The Lake Victoria basin and the Albertine Graben have not been spared either. The Lake basin, which is being shared by Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya has been undergoing rapid urbanization in the last three decades; the high population density, rapid industrial growth and waste-water treatment plants in vicinity of Lake Victoria basin have been reported as sources of environmental contaminants such as plastic debris and endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). It is expected that both Lake Victoria and Nile River act as sinks for pollutants e.g., microplastics (MPs); however, the extent of these interactions and MPs entrapment rates will be governed by many physical, biological and chemical factors. In addition, the project explores L. Victoria point source pollution identification and remediation. Since most of the pollutants on the Kenyan side of lake have been identified, stratified sampling of known pollutants will be done and mechanisms of removing the pollutants at its source determined. A policy brief will be prepared and made available to concerned authorities for action.
Furthermore, Uganda has established an ambitious agenda for its future with its 2040 Vision acting as a blueprint and framework envisaging a middle-income economy, and its hopes for infrastructural and social development are hinged on revenues expected from oil production in the Albertine Graben. In 2013, Uganda’s oil reserves were estimated to be 3.5 billion barrels, and were expected to yield at least USD $2 billion per year for 30 years once oil production commences. The Albertine Graben, covering an exploration area of about 25,000 km2 contains substantial oil seepages that lead to environmental degradation and thus impose threats to people’s health through food chains. Many bioremediation and chemical oxidation studies have been carried out but with limited remediation efficiency. In this project, candidates will explore multifaceted application of nanotechnology in the field of bioremediation of petroleum hydrocarbons. Understanding the interaction between the contaminant, the microorganism, and the nanomaterials is of crucial importance since positive and negative effects may be produced.
Project Objectives/Outcomes:
It is expected that through this project, we shall;
Exploit regional capacities to jointly streamline existing curricula on environmental chemistry and ecotoxicology.
Develop a novel cost-effective state-of-the-art technology to track and clean up contaminants in waste water.
Develop efficient remediation technologies for crude oil contaminated soils and water of the Albertine graben, Uganda.
Investigate seasonal fluxes, sources and trophic transfer of microplastics within the aquatic ecosystem of Lake Victoria and River Nile.
Scholarship design:
The project offers financial support to academically skilled master’s and PhD students with main focus on aforementioned priority areas. 4 PhD scholarships (2 tenable at MAK -Uganda, 1 tenable at KYU-Uganda, and 1 tenable at JOOUST-Kenya), and up to 5 Master scholarships (3 tenable at MAK, 1 tenable at KYU, and 1 tenable at JOOUST) will be considered for funding by ECSDevelop project. 50% of the scholarships will be awarded to females.
The scholarship covers:
Full tuition fees: Payable directly to the University according to an official invoice;
Stipend: EUR 2,400 and EUR 3,600 for MSc and PhD students, respectively, per year to support living expenses during project duration;
Field visits, study materials and laboratory consumables: One-off allowance;
Workshops on renewable resources/analytical skills and webinar series on biorefinery;
Research fellowships in BOKU, Austria: Students will be provided with money to cover their costs for accommodation, insurance and upkeep while in Austria at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU).
Interested applicants should submit the following sets of documents:
An application letter for a Master’s or PhD scholarships;
A current CV (at most 2 pages), including a detailed description of the previous education at the University level (all courses and grades) and a description of current research interests in line with the stated ECSDevelop project areas of focus;
Citizenship Proof – Copy of national identity card or passport;
Three recent passport size photos;
A certified copy of the bachelor’s degree & certificate for Master’s applicants; Master’s degree & certificate for PhD applicants;
A copy of admission letter to the MSc. Program at MAK or KYU or JOOUST for Master’s applicants;
A research Concept Note maximum 5 pages with a detailed description of the applicant’s research interest.
A motivation letter showing why they are interested in pursuing Masters or PhD studies and expected outputs from their master’s or PhD studies.
At least two recommendation letters from your academic referees. The reference letters should be sent together with the application.
Application procedure:
All application documents must be zipped up in one file folder;
Electronic submission of application for scholarship with supporting documents should be sent to the Overall Project Coordinator of ECSDevelop, Dr. Christine Betty Nagawa on e-mail christine.nagawa[at]mak.ac.ug with a copy to ECSDevelop Project Coordinator at JOOUST, Dr. Solomon Omwoma Lugasi on e-mail slugasi[at]jooust.ac.ke; and to the ECSDevelop project Coordinator KYU, Dr. Christine Kyarimpa on email ckyarimpa[at]kyu.ac.ug
No hard copies of application documents will be required given the prevailing covid-19 situation;
Deadline for submission of applications is 30th January, 2022 17:00 hours, EAT. Only the shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
Selection Process:
These are competitive Masters & PhD scholarships. The applications shall be vetted by a selection panel consisting of professionals from MAK, KYU, JOOUST and BOKU. Previous working experiences with research projects will be an added advantage.
Please see Download below for detailed Call for Applications.
Dr. Jackson Efitre, a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University has been appointed as a Lead Author for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Seventh Assessment Report. He was amongst the 664 experts nominated by governments and selected by the IPCC Bureau from a global pool of 3,771 nominees. This prestigious appointment recognizes his extensive expertise and significant contributions to climate science globally. Dr. Efitre previously contributed to the Africa chapter of IPCC’s 6th Assessment Report that was launched in 2022. In the seventh assessment cycle, Dr. Efitre will contribute to Working Group II: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability, Chapter 17: Agriculture, Food, Forestry, Fiber and Fisheries.
IPCC Assessment Reports are the most authoritative assessment of the state of knowledge on climate science, mitigation and adaptation. Commissioned by nearly all governments, the reports are key in informing climate policy, and shaping international climate negotiations.
We congratulate Dr. Efitre on joining a distinguished group of experts who will contribute to this crucial undertaking for global climate policy.
Newly admitted students to the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) have been strongly encouraged to make academic excellence their top priority as they begin their university journey. During the official College orientation held on 6th August 2025, continuing students shared valuable insights aimed at helping the freshers adapt and thrive both academically and socially in the university environment.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Britah Kemigisha and Mr. Leakey Mbabazi, students of Conservation Biology and Petroleum Geosciences respectively, offered practical advice drawn from their experiences at CoNAS. The two students emphasized the importance of time management, consistent class attendance, and fostering healthy academic competition.
“Be ambitious and attend classes because attendance earns you some marks. Be competitive in a way that promotes excellence,” Mbabazi advised. He encouraged freshers to approach university life with purpose, noting that unlike in high school, university students must take personal responsibility for their learning outcomes. He recommended the use of professional networking platforms like LinkedIn, emphasizing their value in facilitating meaningful connections, expanding one’s professional network, discovering job opportunities, and staying updated on industry trends and insights.
Dr Joel Isanga briefing students about the Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology.
Ms. Kemigisha underscored the importance of building supportive peer networks. “Form groups and inspire each other with rewards based on academic excellence,” she advised, emphasizing that academic group work, peer mentorship, and study circles can be powerful tools for motivation and accountability. According to her, surrounding oneself with goal-oriented individuals creates a positive learning environment that fosters growth and resilience, especially when faced with academic challenges.
The Dean, School of Physical Sciences, Prof. Michael Owor addressing the freshers about the different departments and programmes in the schoolSome of the freshers and college administrators at the orientation held on 6th August 2025 at JICA.
The orientation programme served as a platform to introduce First Year students to the academic programmes, services, and student life at CoNAS and the University in general. The session led by the Deputy Principal, Prof. Juma Kasozi featured presentations by both College and University leaders, who sensitized the new students on key university policies, academic structures, and support services. School Deans and Heads of Departments in attendance briefed students on the specific programmes offered within their respective units. These included the Dean, School of Physical Sciences, Prof. Michael Owor; the Dean, School of Biosciences, Prof. Arthur Tugume; the Head, Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, represented by Dr Joel Isanga; the Head, Department of Chemistry, Dr Emmanuel Tebandeke; the Head, Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, Dr Arthur Batte; the Head, Department of Mathematics, Dr Ismail Mirumbe; the Head, Department of Physics, Dr Denis Okello; the Head, Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences, Dr Godfrey Kawooya Kubiriza; the Head, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology represented by Dr Godwin Anywar, and a representative from the Department of Exercise and Sports Science. Students were also sensitized on the registration and examination processes, ICT support services, library services, fees payment policies, the Anti-sexual Harassment Policy, counselling and guidance services, the emerging leaders programme, and general welfare at the University.
The Dean, School of Biosciences, Prof. Arthur Tugume addressing the students.
On behalf of the Principal, the Deputy Principal, Prof. Juma Kasozi warmly welcomed the newly admitted students to the College.He provided an insightful overview of the key academic units and programmes offered both within the College and across the University. In his address, Prof. Kasozi congratulated the students on securing admission into one of the most competitive, vibrant, and intellectually rigorous colleges within the University. He encouraged the students to take full ownership of their academic journey, emphasizing the importance of commitment, discipline, and focus from the very beginning. Highlighting the value of hard work and determination, he reminded them that the foundation they lay now will shape their future success.
Dr Emmanuel Tebandeke addressing the students about the programmes in the Department of Chemistry.
In his address, the Manager of the Counselling and Guidance Centre at the University, Mr. Henry Nsubuga, emphasized the importance of safeguarding mental health. He urged students to prioritize their psychological well-being, noting that maintaining a healthy mind is fundamental for academic success and overall personal development. Mr. Nsubuga encouraged students to actively seek support and adopt positive coping mechanisms to navigate the pressures of academic life.
Mr. David Kisitu, ICT Officer at CoNAS moderated the session.Dr Godfrey Kawooya Kubiriza briefed students about the programmes in the Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences, and the significance of the natural sciences in general.Dr. Arthur Batte (L) addressing students about the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies.Dr. Godwin Anywar represented the Head, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology.Ms. Britah Kemigisha, a prospective BSc. Conservation Biology graduand briefing students on how to plan for a good CGPA.Mr. Leakey Mbabazi, a prospective Bachelor of Petroleum Geosciences graduand, also offered valuable tips on achieving academic excellence.Mr James Muhwezi, on behalf of student leaders at CoNAS briefed students about life on Campus.Dr Barbara Nerima from the Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology briefed students on the emerging leaders programme at the University.Some of the students listening to officials.A section of officials at the orientation.
The lectures are expected to commence on Monday, 11th August 2024.
Researchers from the Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University have highlighted the urgent need to conserve medicinal plants in the face of increasing threats from climate change, over-harvesting, and habitat destruction.
Despite Namutumba District’s rich diversity of medicinal plants, conservation efforts are limited, and several species are already classified as globally and nationally threatened. This highlights the urgent need for focused conservation strategies to safeguard these vulnerable medicinal plants.
Dr Tugume addressing the workshop participants on the key research findings.
Under a project titled “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” a team of researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume documented 174 medicinal plant species. The goal was to assess the existential threats facing these plants due to unsustainable harvesting practices and the lack of effective conservation measures. These species are widely used to treat various health conditions, including malaria, syphilis, diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers. The findings of the study are intended to guide the development of species-specific, evidence-based interventions to curb possible extinction and loss of medicinal plant resources. The research revealed troubling trends in the availability of key medicinal plants, including:
The herbalists mostly collected their medicinal plants from bushlands (92.0%), markets (82.3%) and wetlands (74.7%) and were rarely cultivated. This is of great concern regarding the conservation and future availability of these resources.
It was noted that 36% of the herbal products were made from roots, which presents a conservation threat since the heavy utilization of roots affects the regeneration of the medicinal plants.
Common plants used were: Kigelia africana (Naibere), Erythrina abyssinica (Ekiyirikiti) and Geranium sauveolens (Lokowe). Kigelia africana was the most cited species by the herbalists, indicating heavy utilization and a high conservation threat if deliberate measures are not taken to ensure its future availability.
Almost all respondents (289, 96.3%) acknowledged a considerable decline in the availability of 13 medicinal plants species including Aloe wollastonii (Ekigagi), Commiphora africana (Nkulidho), Myrica kandtiana (Mukikimbo) and Acacia sieberiana (Mufundawuzi).
Four plant species i.e. Tamarindus indica (Enkoge), Warburgia ugandensis (Balwegira), Mitragyna rubrastipulata (Mutamatama) and Mondia whitei (Mulondo) appear on the Red List of Globally and Nationally Threatened Species and were mentioned among the plants whose population has greatly declined.
The causes of decline in availability of medicinal plants included climate change, overharvesting, agricultural expansion, habitat destruction, land use change and inadequate regulations.
There were no medicinal plant conservation efforts by herbalists.
Kigelia africana was the most cited species by the herbalists, indicating heavy utilization and a high conservation threat.Participants included leaders of the herbalist associations, traders and research assistants.
The study recommended the following practices to ensure conservation of the medicinal plants:
Promote the use of sustainable harvesting techniques to ensure conservation of medicinal plants.
Conduct capacity building for stakeholders in the medicinal plants sector on conservation, value addition and standardization.
Establish community botanical gardens raw plant collection and sensitization programmes.
Advocate for agroforestry among herbalists to reduce the dependence on natural habitats.
Develop and enforce regulations on accessing natural areas for medicinal plants.
Promote conservation awareness campaigns.
Dr Tugume appreciating the Chief Administrative Officer-Namutumba, Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel for hosting the Dissemination Workshop at the District Offices.
Research Dissemination in Namutumba District
At the research dissemination workshop held in Namutumba District on 23rd July 2025, and attended by district leaders, researchers, and local herbalists, the project team led by Dr Patience Tugume expressed hope that the insights gained from the project, particularly in medicinal plants conservation approaches, will be invaluable for minimising the decline in medicinal plants.
The Resident District Commissioner-Namutumba, Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu (Standing), the PI, Dr Patience Tugume (Right), and the LC5 Chairperson, Mr. Mutyaba Patrick (Left).
In her remarks, Dr Tugume, thanked the Government of Uganda through the Makerere UniversityResearch and Innovations Fund (MakRIF) for funding the project. She expressed gratitude to the research team composed of Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa, Dr Jamilu E. Ssenku, Dr Savina Asiimwe, and Dr Abdul Walusansa who have worked with her closely from project inception in February 2024. She further thanked the research assistants and all respondents, mainly the herbalists that participated in the study.
In a special way, she appreciated Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu (Resident District Commissioner), Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel (Chief Administrative Officer), Mr. Kiire Noah (Communication Officer), Mr. Mugunywa Enock (District Community Development Officer), Mr. Kirya Moses (District Environmental Officer), Mr. Bamusubire William (District Forest Officer) and the leaders of herbalist associations for providing support throughout the study and sparing time to attend the dissemination workshop.
The MakRIF research Team. Left to right: Mr. Ronald Muwanika, Dr Savina Asiimwe, Dr Patience Tugume (Principal Investigator), Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa, and Dr Abdul Walusansa.
Addressing the participants, the Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu urged all stakeholders to engage in a collaborative discussion on how the study findings can be translated into practical solutions to promote sustainable use and conservation of commonly used medicinal plants in Namutumba District amidst adverse effects of climate change.
The MakRIF project team with leaders of the Traditional Herbalist Associations.
Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel, the Chief Administrative Officer, praised the Makerere research team for selecting Namutumba as the study area. He said the research served as an eye-opener to the district officials and community, especially regarding the pressure exerted on natural medicinal resources.
Front left to right: Mr. Ronald Muwanika (Coordinator), Mugega Amos (Sec. Health), Mutyaba Patrick (LC 5), Bangu Fred (Resident District Commissioner), Dr Patience Tugume (Principal Investigator), Ms. Kiire Noah (Communication Officer), Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa (Researcher). Back left to right: Mugunywa Enock (District Community Development Officer), Kirya Moses (District Environmental Officer), Bamusubire William (District Forest Officer). Dr Savina Asiimwe (Researcher), and Dr Abdul Walusansa (Researcher).
Report compiled by Dr Patience Tugume and Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa – Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, CoNAS, Makerere University