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Mak Launches Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence

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The Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence, housed at the College of Business and Management Sciences was on March 10, 2022, launched during the Public Investment Management Open Day held at Makerere University. The launch and Open Day were presided over by Mr. Ashaba Hannington, the Commissioner Projects Analysis and Public Investment Department, who represented the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Matia Kasaija.

The center, with funding from the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office of the UK government (FCDO) through the World Bank, is expected to build capacity of officers involved in management of public investments. The launch of the center was preceded by an Open Day themed “promoting good practices in managing public investments to raise returns”.

The Centre of Excellence awarded certificates to 26 trainees from various government agencies, following a rigorous training in Financial and Risk Analysis.

Prof. Eria Hisali, the Principal College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University.
Prof. Eria Hisali, the Principal College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University.

In a quest to strengthen public investment management, the government of Uganda through the World Bank Group and Commonwealth and Development Office of the UK Government (FCDO) Multi Donor Trust Fund (MDTF), have supported Implementation of the National Development Plans with interventions carried out through at least seven government institutions. The interventions aimed to strengthen institutions, build technical capacity for relevant government officers, and develop decision making tools including relevant strategies, policies and guidelines, in line with the theory of change and having more efficient and effective systems for public investment management that will ultimately increase the returns on investments and thereby promoting faster growth and the country’s capacity to manage its debt. 

In his opening remarks, Professor Eria Hisali the Principal College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) who represented Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe the Makerere University Vice Chancellor highlighted how 0.6 of every dollar invested is lost hence the need for capacity building and research amongst government institutions to maximize returns. “Having done this we shall have created a huge data bank for policy makers, it is our sincere hope that then all government projects will be subjected to public scrutiny of our center so that we enhance productivity of our public investment”, added Prof Hisali. He extended the University’s appreciation to the World Bank and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office of the UK Government (FCDO) through UKaid for the tremendous financial support rendered in establishing the PIM Centre of Excellence.

Ms. Mukami Kariuki, the World Bank Country Manager for Uganda.
Ms. Mukami Kariuki, the World Bank Country Manager for Uganda.

On behalf of the World Bank, Ms. Mukami Kariuki, the World Bank Country Manager for Uganda said that such policies help to provide economic stimulus and enhance the stock of public assets even in the times of crisis like the Covid 19 pandemic, which can contribute to the achievement of the long-term development goals of growth and development and poverty reduction.

Ms. Kariuki reiterated how clear it is that high levels of investment cannot yield returns if the quality of projects remains poor and that it should take government and stakeholders high efforts in combating such a big challenge through favorable policies and considerable reforms.

She commended the Government of Uganda for aiming at building capacity of government officials and other stakeholders, and developing decision making tools to increase return on investment thereby promoting more rapid growth.

Dr. Willy Kagarura (L) receives Prof. Eria Hisali at the PIM CoE Exhibition Booth during the Open Day.
Dr. Willy Kagarura (L) receives Prof. Eria Hisali at the PIM CoE Exhibition Booth during the Open Day.

“We are happy to witness the progress made on strengthening the ‘gate-keeping’ role of the Ministry of Finance. Through tapping into technology, the Government of Uganda has developed the Integrated Bank of Projects, an online information portal to streamline preparation, appraisal, and monitoring of execution of public projects,” said Ms. Kariuki. “The World Bank will further engage the government on its Public Investment Management (PIM) agenda, especially on strengthening its PIM policy and regulatory framework, and a financing strategy to manage public debt and ensure a return on investment”.

She closed off by asking government to focus on demonstrating value for money of public investments, building capacity of ministries and its officials and other implementing agencies in project preparation, reserving resources to facilitate implementation of feasibility studies during the pre-investment stage and   formulating a policy framework for public investment management to allow the public scrutinize such investments.

Jordan Martindale who represented FCDO and the British High Commission.
Jordan Martindale who represented FCDO and the British High Commission.

Jordan Martindale who represented the FCDO and British High Commission highlighted the importance of Public Investment scrutiny as a business to every tax payer. She said the systems underlying the appraisal, implementation and monitoring of these projects need to be strengthened.

“It has been great partnering with Government with Uganda as they increase their ability to effectively deliver improved Public Investment Management.  Delivering government’s investment pipeline in a manner that offers value for money, timely delivery and the attainment of development outcomes is crucial for achieving the National Development Plan III goals. The UK’s investment of Ush 42.3 billion over the past 5 years has led to evident efficiency gains including an improvement in the capital spending absorption rate which has risen from 60% in 2017 to 86% in 2021, a 4-fold increase in the use of Cost Benefit Analysis to assess projects submitted for approval into the Public Investment Plan, and the successful leveraging of about $600 million in additional development finance,’’ Jordan Martindale, said.

While launching the Public Investment Management (PIM) Center of Excellence, Mr. Ashaba Hannington on behalf of Hon. Matia Kasaija said the theme for the open day was in line with the government strategy for Economic Development through strengthening the country’s competitiveness for sustainable wealth creation, employment and  hopes to achieve it all through the implementation of the Nation Development Plans.

Mr. Ashaba Hannington cuts the ribbon to ribbon to mark the launch of the PIM CoE at the Central Teaching Facility 2 (CTF2), Makerere University.
Mr. Ashaba Hannington cuts the ribbon to ribbon to mark the launch of the PIM CoE at the Central Teaching Facility 2 (CTF2), Makerere University.

“Through this reform agenda, the Government has improved her processes including improvement on screening projects before admission in the public investment plan, decrease in number of non-performing projects, accountability on finances through verifiable output and improvement in mechanism of entry and exit of projects from the public investment plan” he said.

Commissioner Ashaba thanked the funders, implored them for more support and pledged government’s support for the Center to ensure successful implementation of government interventions including the newly launched Parish Develop Model.

Professor Edward Bbaale, the Dean School of Economics and the Principal Investigator of the Center of Excellence said the center looks at building capacity amongst trainers to effectively deliver standardized PIM content, and conducting short courses to improve the country’s capacity in PIM. The Centre also aims at offering professional support as an independent external evaluator to the development committee of Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) and carrying out research towards improving the PIM framework in Uganda.

Prof. Edward Bbaale, Dean School of Economics, CoBAMS and Principal Investigator of the PIM Centre of Excellence.
Prof. Edward Bbaale, Dean School of Economics, CoBAMS and Principal Investigator of the PIM Centre of Excellence.

He therefore thanked the World Bank and the UK government for the grant, and the Ministry of Finance Planning and Economic Development, Department of Project Analysis for the support. Prof. Bbaale equally thanked the Makerere University Management particularly the Office of the Vice Chancellor for offering space to house the PIM center of Excellence, as well as CoBAMS fraternity and Cambridge resources international for the support and collaboration.

About eight government institutions showcased innovations and research findings from the grant given by the World Bank and FCDO among which included the PIM Center of Excellence that disseminated research findings on the impact of Covid-19 on public investment management in Uganda and the impact evaluation of the Uganda clean cooking supply chain expansion project that focuses on households’ access to cleaner cooking technologies and the Impact of the Luwero Rwenzori Development Program. The National Planning Authority exhibited their building planning capacity for spatial data and greater Kampala metropolitan Area while the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PDDA) showcased the Electronic Government Procurement system that enables disposal and procurement of public supplies, works and services through the internet.

Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) showcased its contact center upgrade with voice and chat infrastructure containing interactive video response and incident management to enhance simplicity to clientele and innovations in revenue mobilization. The Uganda Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development exhibited its program that focuses on readying the country for actualization of shared infrastructure corridor and physical development plans operationalization.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries exhibited the UgIFT Micro-scale irrigation program, an intensified solar sprinkler system offered at a subsidized price to empower farmers while the Office of the Prime Minister showcased its Enhancement of Productivity, Accountability and Knowledge Systems for Improved Public Investment Outcomes in Education and Health Project.

The newly launched PIM Center for Excellence is equipped with high-tech IT equipment and videoconferencing technologies to support training.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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PIM Centre of Excellence, Ministry of Finance Launch 4th Cohort Training on Certificate of Financial Implications

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Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu (C) with stakeholders and participants at the commencement of the two-week training in Jinja on 22nd June 2026. Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE), Makerere University, Kampala in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) commencement of two-week training of the fourth cohort of the Capacity Enhancement and Hands-on Training on the Guidelines for Financial Clearance and the Certificate of Financial Implications (CFI) – Integrated Regulatory Cost-Benefit Analysis. 22nd June 2026, Pearl on the Nile Hotel, Jinja, Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University‘s Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence, in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED), has commenced the fourth cohort of the Capacity Enhancement and Hands-on Training on the Guidelines for Financial Clearance and the Certificate of Financial Implications (CFI) – Integrated Regulatory Cost-Benefit Analysis.

The two-week training, held in Jinja, brings together economists, policy analysts, and technical officers from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to strengthen their capacity in conducting financial and economic assessments of government policies and legislation.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Assistant Commissioner Mohammed Kabaale, who represented the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury (PSST) emphasized the critical role of the Certificate of Financial Implications in promoting sound fiscal governance and evidence-based policymaking.

Mr. Mohammed Kabaale. Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE), Makerere University, Kampala in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) commencement of two-week training of the fourth cohort of the Capacity Enhancement and Hands-on Training on the Guidelines for Financial Clearance and the Certificate of Financial Implications (CFI) – Integrated Regulatory Cost-Benefit Analysis. 22nd June 2026, Pearl on the Nile Hotel, Jinja, Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Mohammed Kabaale.

“The Certificate of Financial Implications is not merely a procedural requirement. It is a critical safeguard within our public finance management framework,” Mr. Kabaale noted. “It ensures that all policy and legislative proposals submitted to Cabinet or Parliament are fiscally sustainable, consistent with Government’s macroeconomic objectives, and aligned with our national development priorities.”

Mr Kabaale explained that the revised Guidelines for Financial Clearance, which became effective at the start of the current financial year, provide a strengthened institutional and analytical framework for assessing policy proposals. The guidelines require Regulatory Impact Assessments, Statements of Financial Implications from respective MDAs, evidence of stakeholder consultations, and Integrated Regulatory Cost-Benefit Analysis conducted by the Ministry of Finance.

According to the PSST, these requirements are intended to strengthen inter-agency coordination, improve the quality of the financial clearance process, and ensure that public resources are allocated in a manner that delivers maximum value for money to citizens.

A section of participants drawn from from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE), Makerere University, Kampala in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) commencement of two-week training of the fourth cohort of the Capacity Enhancement and Hands-on Training on the Guidelines for Financial Clearance and the Certificate of Financial Implications (CFI) – Integrated Regulatory Cost-Benefit Analysis. 22nd June 2026, Pearl on the Nile Hotel, Jinja, Uganda, East Africa.
A section of participants drawn from from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

The training is being delivered in partnership with Makerere University‘s Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence, established in 2023 to build national capacity in public investment management and policy analysis.

Representing Makerere University, the Dean of the School of Economics, Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu, commended the Ministry of Finance for its foresight in establishing the PIM Centre of Excellence and investing in capacity development for public servants.

“Uganda faces a triple challenge of scale, scarcity and speed,” Prof. Okumu said. “As our population grows, financing becomes more constrained, and citizens demand faster service delivery, every shilling must deliver greater value. Cost-Benefit Analysis and Financial Implications assessments help government make decisions that are beneficial, affordable and resilient under real fiscal constraints.”

Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu. Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE), Makerere University, Kampala in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) commencement of two-week training of the fourth cohort of the Capacity Enhancement and Hands-on Training on the Guidelines for Financial Clearance and the Certificate of Financial Implications (CFI) – Integrated Regulatory Cost-Benefit Analysis. 22nd June 2026, Pearl on the Nile Hotel, Jinja, Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu.

Prof. Okumu noted that while Cost-Benefit Analysis helps determine whether a policy or project is worthwhile, integrating Financial Implications assessments ensures that proposed interventions are fiscally sustainable and implementable.

He challenged participants to apply the skills acquired during the training at project, portfolio and policy levels by improving project selection, prioritizing investments that generate the highest economic returns, and institutionalizing evidence-based decision-making across government.

“Analysis must translate into transformation,” he said. “The ultimate measure of success will be the decisions that change because of your work, the value you unlock for Uganda, and the lives that are transformed because you asked the right questions.”

Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE), Makerere University, Kampala in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) commencement of two-week training of the fourth cohort of the Capacity Enhancement and Hands-on Training on the Guidelines for Financial Clearance and the Certificate of Financial Implications (CFI) – Integrated Regulatory Cost-Benefit Analysis. 22nd June 2026, Pearl on the Nile Hotel, Jinja, Uganda, East Africa.
Participants follow proceedings during the commencement ceremony.

The Dean further observed that integrated financial and economic analysis is increasingly important globally as countries seek to mobilize resources for climate action, digital transformation and sustainable development. He described the participants as part of a growing community of professionals capable of strengthening investor confidence and enhancing public trust through credible policy analysis.

Both speakers underscored the importance of professional integrity, continuous learning and institutional collaboration in advancing Uganda’s public finance reform agenda.

The PSST encouraged participants to engage actively throughout the training and to champion the implementation of the revised guidelines within their respective institutions. The Ministry, he added, will continue investing in systems automation, capacity development and stakeholder engagement to strengthen evidence-based financial clearance processes across government.

Mr Hannigton Musimenta, one of the facilitators of the training. Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE), Makerere University, Kampala in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) commencement of two-week training of the fourth cohort of the Capacity Enhancement and Hands-on Training on the Guidelines for Financial Clearance and the Certificate of Financial Implications (CFI) – Integrated Regulatory Cost-Benefit Analysis. 22nd June 2026, Pearl on the Nile Hotel, Jinja, Uganda, East Africa.
Mr Hannigton Musimenta, one of the facilitators of the training.

The training marks another milestone in the partnership between Makerere University and the Ministry of Finance aimed at building a critical mass of public sector professionals equipped to support fiscally responsible, socially inclusive and economically sound policy decisions. The fourth cohort follows the successful completion of three earlier cohorts conducted during the current financial year and forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Uganda’s public investment management and policy formulation systems.

Betty Kyakuwa
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Makerere Vice Chancellor tasks CoBAMS to Change Africa’s research trajectory through graduate training

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The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe calls upon members of faculty and researchers at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) to harness the power of graduate training to change Africa’s research trajectory, 15th June 2026, School of Business Conference Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

June 15, 2026: The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe has called upon members of faculty and researchers at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) to harness the power of graduate training to change Africa’s research trajectory. The call aligns with the research-led agenda of Makerere University – a strategic direction aimed at positioning the institution at the forefront of producing the requisite human resources and innovations for Uganda’s and Africa’s transformation.

To reinforce his line of argument, the Vice Chancellor cited statistics that place Africa, which is home to about 16% of the global population, at a rate of only 3% of the world’s total research output.

Strongly convinced that Makerere University through its Colleges, Schools, members of faculty, researchers and graduate students, has the potential to undertake research to change Africa’s research trajectory, the Vice Chancellor challenged the College of Business and Management Sciences to optimize graduate training to channel out research, innovations and publications.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe calls upon members of faculty and researchers at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) to harness the power of graduate training to change Africa’s research trajectory, 15th June 2026, School of Business Conference Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

“The future belongs to research. Graduate training presents us with a critical mass of students, to be nurtured, trained and mentored in research, to produce research outputs and innovations. I am therefore here to discuss with you, and hear your views on maximizing the graduate research potential,” he said.

A case for the research-led agenda and graduate training

Established in 1922, Makerere University celebrated 100 years of excellence in 2022. The commencement of its second century, presented the institution with a greater call to be a thought leader of impact-driven research and innovations.

Consequently, in the Strategic Plan, the leadership, staff and stakeholders, committed to the transformation of Makerere University into a research-led institution.

Graduate training was highlighted as a central pillar in the realization of the research-led agenda. Several strides have been registered including a record of 213 PhD graduates during the 76th graduation ceremony held in February 2026.

Some of the CoBAMS Leaders in attendance. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe calls upon members of faculty and researchers at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) to harness the power of graduate training to change Africa’s research trajectory, 15th June 2026, School of Business Conference Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the CoBAMS Leaders in attendance.

Driven by the prospects, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, on Monday 15th June 2026, held a strategic meeting with the leadership and staff at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) aimed at harnessing the power of graduate training to build a robust knowledge economy. He underscored the need to align graduate training, research and publications to with the overall research-led agenda of the University.

The meeting brought onboard university officials central to graduate training namely Prof. Julius Kikooma-Director of Graduate Training, Associate Professor William Tayeebwa-Managing Editor of Makerere University Press, the publishing arm of the institution, Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi-Head of the Makerere University Writing Centre, Prof. Edward Bbaale-the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences, Associate Professor James Wokadala- the Deputy Principal, Associate Professor Ibrahim Mike Okumu-Dean, School of Economics, Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng-Dean, School of Business, Dr. Margaret Banga-Dean, School of Statistics and Planning, Heads of Departments, Coordinators of Graduate Training, members of faculty and researchers.

Strategies for increasing graduate student numbers

The Vice Chancellor stated that Colleges should work with the Directorate of Graduate Training and key stakeholders to increase the number of graduate students (Masters and PhD levels). To facilitate this strategic direction, the Vice Chancellor emphasized the need to adhere to the policy guidelines, supervision procedures, and coming up with innovative systems aimed at improving the completion rates at the graduate levels.

In his presentation, the Director of Graduate Training, Prof. Julius Kikooma focused on the area of PhD training, policy changes to spur graduate training, and the strategic targets of Makerere University.

Prof. Julius Kikooma. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe calls upon members of faculty and researchers at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) to harness the power of graduate training to change Africa’s research trajectory, 15th June 2026, School of Business Conference Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Julius Kikooma.

Specific to the PhD by Research, Prof. Kikooma appealed to the Colleges to popularize this PhD track, and encouraged Schools and Departments to actively contribute to its successful delivery.

Responding to the challenge of workload cognizant of the low staffing levels in some academic disciplines, Prof. Kikooma guided that when filling in the template, the members of faculty should indicate both the teaching load (hours taught) and the supervision load.

Centres of Excellence and Research at CoBAMS

Presenting the research and graduate training strategy, the Principal, Prof. Edward Bbaale provided a brief profile of the five (5) Centres of Excellence, through which, the College champions research, innovations, entrepreneurship, policy engagement, community impact.

Prof. Bbaale expounded that the Centres of Excellence and Research provide a practical training ground and mentorship for graduate students (Masters and PhD levels).

The Centres of Excellence and Research include: Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE), Environment for Development (EfD-Mak Centre), Entrepreneurship and Innovation Centre, Tumusiime Mutebile Centre of Excellence, Centre for Population and Applied Statistics, the African Centre for Climate-Sensitive Macroeconomic Modelling.

Prof. Edward Bbaale. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe calls upon members of faculty and researchers at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) to harness the power of graduate training to change Africa’s research trajectory, 15th June 2026, School of Business Conference Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Edward Bbaale.

Vice Chancellor tasks CoBAMS to host more Centres of Excellence and Research

Reflecting on the significant contribution of Centres of Excellence to research productivity and visibility, as well as mentorship for graduate students, the Vice Chancellor tasked the College leadership to establish more centres. 

“Centres of Excellence help to redirect research. I therefore task you, to engage the Schools and Departments so that the College hosts over ten (10) Centres,” he guided.

According to the Vice Chancellor, each department at the CoBAMS should host at least two (2) Centres of Excellence and Research.

Publishing with Makererere University Press

In addition to publishing in internationally recognized journals, the Vice Chancellor encouraged the College to come up with home-grown journals, and publish their work in Makerere University journals. He called upon staff to utilize the Makerere University Press, which is the publishing arm of the institution.

The Managing Editor of the Makerere University Press, Associate Professor William Tayeebwa outlined that Makerere University journals are strategic instruments for: global visibility of Makerere University research, academic reputation and institutional ranking, knowledge dissemination and policy influence, strengthening postgraduate supervision and research culture, and attracting international scholarly collaboration.

The Managing Editor explained that the Makerere University Press was implementing a structured, standards-driven journal ecosystem where all journals meet the minimum international publishing standards. He added that the journals are developed intentionally for indexing readiness, and colleges take ownership of journal performance and sustainability, while the Makerere University Press provides the centralized technical and quality assurance support.

Associate Professor William Tayeebwa. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe calls upon members of faculty and researchers at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) to harness the power of graduate training to change Africa’s research trajectory, 15th June 2026, School of Business Conference Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Associate Professor William Tayeebwa.

Specifically, Associate Professor Tayeebwa informed the audience that the Press had worked with the College of Business and Management Sciences to produce the 2025 working paper series consisting of over 60 research outputs. He added that both entities were in advanced staged of producing the 2026 CoBAMS Working Paper Series, targeting over 80 research outputs. 

With reference to the College by College Indexing Roadmap matrix, the Managing Editor highlighted that the College of Business and Management Sciences will feature the following disciplines: Economics, Finance, Accounting, Marketing, and Management. The Primary Indexing Ecosystem includes: EBSCO Information Services, ProQuest, SSRN, RePEc, and the Prestige Layer including Scopus and the Web of Science.

The Strategic Role of Graduate Training

Presenting the College’s position on graduate training, the Principal-Prof. Edward Bbaale reaffirmed that graduate training is the cornerstone of a research-intensive and innovation-driven university. 

“Graduate training drives research productivity, publication output, grant competitiveness, and internal visibility,” he said. He noted that graduate training strengthens policy engagement, national development impact, and the University’s contribution to knowledge generation.

Prof. Bbaale (Standing) makes his remarks. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe calls upon members of faculty and researchers at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) to harness the power of graduate training to change Africa’s research trajectory, 15th June 2026, School of Business Conference Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Bbaale (Standing) makes his remarks.

“Through our graduate programmes, the College of Business and Management Sciences contributes significantly to the University research-led agenda. The College hosts market-responsive and policy-relevant graduate programmes, which attract working professionals and practitioners,” he elaborated.

To illustrate that the demand for CoBAMS graduate programmes is very high, Prof. Bbaale shared an infographic message, with the Master of Business Administration attracting over 700 applicants.

Doctoral Training and Research Coordination

The Principal stressed that graduate coordinators are essential for programme management and quality assurance.

Dr. Seperia Bwadene Wanyama contributes. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe calls upon members of faculty and researchers at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) to harness the power of graduate training to change Africa’s research trajectory, 15th June 2026, School of Business Conference Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Seperia Bwadene Wanyama contributes.

He pointed out that the College had appointed faculty and/or researchers to take on the following roles: Dr. Kasimu Sendawula-Coordinator for the College Doctoral Forum, Dr. Patricia Ndugga-Research and Grants Coordinator, and Dr. Peter Babyenda as the Policy Engagement Coordinator.

He implored the University leadership on the need for institutional recognition and support for graduate coordinators.

Research Productivity and Visibility

Prof. Bbaale reported that the College produced 60 working papers last financial year, and targets to roll out over 80 working papers this financial year.

He highlighted that the College and the Makerere University Press were in the process of developing discipline-based journals, a strategic approach aimed at institutionalizing a strong publication culture.

Recommendations

Building on the strides so far, the Principal advocated for strengthening the graduate infrastructure and ICT, provision of resources and incentives to facilitate graduate teaching, supervision and examinations, institutionalized support for doctoral fora, journals, and research dissemination, and approval to run the Executive Master of Business Administration in a project mode.

Calls to utilize the Makerere University Writing Centre

Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe calls upon members of faculty and researchers at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) to harness the power of graduate training to change Africa’s research trajectory, 15th June 2026, School of Business Conference Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi.

Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi, explained that the Makerere University Writing Centre constitutes a multi-disciplinary team, an attribute that positions the entity as a university-wide unit with ability to handle all disciplines within the University.

Prof. Muyodi explained that the Makerere University Writing Centre has various programmes targeting early-career researchers, discipline-specific demands, and researchers in general.

He called upon the staff at the College of Business and Management Sciences to utilize the services offered by the Makerere University Writing Centre such as trainings and mentorship, grant writing sessions, and capacity building in policy brief writing techniques.

Ritah Namisango
Ritah Namisango

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Government Strengthens Public Investment Management Capacity Through Intensive Training at Makerere University

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Participants pose for a group photo at the commencement of training at CoBAMS. Makerere University’s Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence commencement of three-day Essential Public Investment Management Training Programme aimed at strengthening the capacity of government officials in project preparation, appraisal, and implementation. Supported by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, 2nd June 2026, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University’s Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence has commenced a three-day Essential Public Investment Management Training Programme aimed at strengthening the capacity of government officials in project preparation, appraisal, and implementation.

The training, supported by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, brings together participants from Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and Local Governments to enhance skills in designing and managing high-impact public investments that align with Uganda’s national development priorities.

Opening the programme on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Ms. Gertrude Basiima, Commissioner for Public Investment and Assets Management (PAP) at the Ministry of Finance, reflected on the evolution of Uganda’s Public Investment Management system and the establishment of the PIM Centre of Excellence.

She noted that the Centre is one of the key institutional innovations that emerged from the creation of the Public Investment Management Department in 2016.

Ms. Gertrude Basiima. Makerere University’s Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence commencement of three-day Essential Public Investment Management Training Programme aimed at strengthening the capacity of government officials in project preparation, appraisal, and implementation. Supported by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, 2nd June 2026, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Gertrude Basiima.

“I was encouraged to learn that the PIM Centre of Excellence, which we started several years ago, is one of the products that emerged from the establishment of the Public Investment Management Department. We established the Centre to bridge the gap between practitioners and academia,” she said.

Ms. Basiima emphasized that effective public investment management requires a blend of practical experience and academic expertise, noting that many facilitators in the programme are active practitioners who also serve as trainers.

She expressed appreciation for returning to Makerere University, describing it as a place of personal significance and transformation, having once been a student at the institution.

Strengthening project discipline and accountability

Addressing participants, Ms. Basiima underscored the critical role of project preparation committees in ensuring quality public investments.

She urged participants to apply the knowledge gained from the training to improve the quality of projects reviewed within their institutions.

“As members of Project Preparation Committees, your role is central in ensuring that only well-prepared projects progress to Development Committees. I will be disappointed if I later encounter poorly prepared projects from officers who have undergone this training,” she cautioned.

Some of the participants from Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and Local Governments. Makerere University’s Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence commencement of three-day Essential Public Investment Management Training Programme aimed at strengthening the capacity of government officials in project preparation, appraisal, and implementation. Supported by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, 2nd June 2026, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the participants from Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and Local Governments.

She further emphasized that public investment management lies at the heart of Uganda’s development agenda, distinguishing between recurrent expenditure and development expenditure.

Recurrent expenditure, she explained, covers routine operational costs such as utilities, fuel, and supplies, while public investment focuses on long-term development interventions such as roads, hospitals, energy systems, irrigation schemes, and water infrastructure.

“Without adequate infrastructure and reliable energy, Uganda cannot industrialize or deliver quality services. Public investment is therefore central to our development transformation,” she said.

Emphasis on evolving systems and policy reforms

Ms. Basiima highlighted key reforms in Uganda’s Public Investment Management framework, including the integration of the concept note and project profile into a single streamlined stage, followed by pre-feasibility and feasibility studies.

She also pointed participants to the updated Development Committee Guidelines (2025) and the National Public Investment Management Policy (2025), both accessible through the Integrated Bank of Projects (IBP).

She noted that the IBP now serves as the central platform for project registration, management, and monitoring, and continues to evolve in line with national reform priorities.

A section of participants follows proceedings. Makerere University’s Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence commencement of three-day Essential Public Investment Management Training Programme aimed at strengthening the capacity of government officials in project preparation, appraisal, and implementation. Supported by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, 2nd June 2026, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A section of participants follows proceedings.

The Commissioner encouraged participants to actively engage in the training, emphasizing its practical and participatory nature.

“This is not a traditional classroom. You will be asked questions, engage in discussions, and work through real-life scenarios. Active participation is essential,” she said.

She further encouraged participants to embrace continuous learning, including the ability to unlearn outdated practices and adopt improved approaches to public investment management.

Makerere’s role in national capacity building

Representing the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences and Director of the PIM Centre of Excellence, Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu, Dean of the School of Economics, emphasized the centrality of the public sector in driving Uganda’s development agenda.

He noted that public investment management is fundamental to achieving economic growth, productivity, and job creation.

Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu. Makerere University’s Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence commencement of three-day Essential Public Investment Management Training Programme aimed at strengthening the capacity of government officials in project preparation, appraisal, and implementation. Supported by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, 2nd June 2026, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu.

“The public sector is the enabler of development. Whether in health, education, or local government, every public officer contributes to national transformation through the quality of their decisions and investments,” Prof. Okumu said.

He warned that weak project preparation undermines access to government financing, even for well-conceived ideas, stressing the importance of technical capacity in project design and appraisal.

Prof. Okumu encouraged participants to view the training as the beginning of a broader professional journey in public investment management, adding that successful participants could eventually contribute as trainers and experts within the system.

Building a pipeline of skilled practitioners

In his remarks, Dr. John Sseruyange, Manager of the PIM Centre of Excellence, emphasized the importance of proper project conceptualization, noting that not all development challenges require new standalone projects.

“One of the key lessons is distinguishing between problems that require new projects and those that can be addressed through existing interventions or additional funding mechanisms,” he said.

Dr. John Sseruyange. Makerere University’s Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence commencement of three-day Essential Public Investment Management Training Programme aimed at strengthening the capacity of government officials in project preparation, appraisal, and implementation. Supported by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, 2nd June 2026, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. John Sseruyange.

He explained that the training forms part of a structured learning pathway that includes project preparation, financial appraisal, risk analysis, and economic appraisal.

Dr. Sseruyange also highlighted the Government’s integrated investment appraisal framework, which requires all projects to undergo rigorous assessment before approval for funding.

He encouraged participants to engage fully in both theoretical and practical sessions, noting that the programme includes group-based “lab sessions” where participants will develop real project concepts.

Toward stronger public investment outcomes

Across all speeches, a common message emerged: strengthening Uganda’s development outcomes depends on improving the quality of public investments through better skills, systems, and institutional coordination.

The PIM Centre of Excellence reaffirmed its commitment to capacity building, research, and policy advisory services aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of public investment management in Uganda.

Participants were urged to translate the knowledge gained into improved performance within their respective institutions, ensuring that public resources are directed toward high-impact, well-prepared, and sustainable development projects. The training is expected to contribute to a growing cadre of skilled public investment professionals who will support Uganda’s long-term development transformation.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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