General
Mak signs Agreement with CIVIS-An Alliance of 10 European Universities
Introduction
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Associate Prof. Umar Kakumba, together with the Deputy Director Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT), Associate Prof. Robert Wamala and the International Relations Officer, Ms Martha Muwanguzi attended an event , New Horizons for a European –African Partnership at Aix-Marseille University, France. The event was on the invitation of the Vice –President of International Relations of Aix-Marseille University. Held from 8th to 12th March, 2022, the event was organized by CIVIS ; a European University Alliance – and punctuated by conferences and workshops with a focus on importance of the Alliance in strengthening Europe-Africa partnerships.
The Opening ceremony was held in the Amphi Gastaut. the Main Hall of Aix Marseille University. In his welcoming remarks, the Rector Aix Marseille University, Prof Eric Berton was delighted to receive participants especially those from Africa. CIVIS wants to create socially justifiable partnerships and Africa is an essential part of the Alliance with the European universities.
The Director of Strategic Projects and Networks at Aix Marseille, Ms. Camille de Garidel-Thoron introduced the participants to CIVIS. This was followed by another presentation by the Coordinator, CIVIS African and Mediterranean partnerships, University of Tübingen, Germany, Dr Christian Möllman.
Background to CIVIS-A European Civic University
In his remarks, the Coordinator explained that CIVIS is a European Civic University formed by the alliance of ten leading research higher education institutions across Europe namely: Aix-Marseille Université (France); Universite of Bucharest (Romania); Sapienza Universitá di Roma (Italy); Stockholm University (Sweden); Université libre de Bruxelles (Belgium); Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (Spain), Eberhard Karls Universitӓt Tubingen (Germany), University of Glasgow (United Kingdom); The Paris Lodron University of Salzburg (Austria) and the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (Greece).
The Alliance brings together a community of more than 470,000 students and 58,000 staff members including 35,000 academics and researchers. The CIVIS member universities actively contribute to the social, cultural and economic activities of the urban environments they are situated in and also promote inclusiveness, gender equality, non-discrimination and social equity. CIVIS strengthens interactions, knowledge production and skills amongst its members and with citizens, the communities, businesses, social and cultural associations. These interactions help reduce inequalities, increase access to quality training and opportunities for students and staff.
CIVIS is governed by a Board of Rectors, headed by a President and two Vice Presidents who make decisions. It has a Steering Committee headed by the President and a CIVIS Administration with a Project Team. There are three councils namely, Global Participant Council, Global Student Council and a Global Consultative Council.
Alliance between CIVIS and African Universities
Humanity now faces global problems such as climatic change, diseases and epidemics, unplanned cities and settlements, to mention but a few. It is important to note that these challenges cut across borders and continents. Therefore, collaboration and partnerships with African Higher Education Institutions (HEI) would be crucial and important to establish. It is on this basis that particular African universities were invited by CIVIS to participate in the events with the aim of extending the partnership to the African continent. Six universities were invited: (i) Makerere University (Uganda); (ii) University of Sfax (Tunisia); (iii) University of the Witwatersrand (South Africa); (iv) Université Hassan II de Casablanca (Morocco); (v) Universidade Eduardo Mondlane (Mozambique), and (vi) Université Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar (Senegal).
The collaboration and partnership broadens the network for student and staff mobilities as well as study visits. Further, it also supports equitable research partnerships in higher education agreed upon in the European Union and African Union Innovation Agenda which opens up new channels for South-South cooperation. University partnerships have also become powerful vehicles for promoting civic and democratic engagement as well as international economic development.
Presentation by Makerere University
The Vice Chancellors in the African countries presented information about their universities, including identification of areas where they could work together with the European counterparts in the Alliance.
In his remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Associate Prof. Umar Kakumba thanked the organizers of the event and the invitation extended to Makerere University in particular. He supported the idea of a European-African Universities partnership and believes that it will contribute to the Africa Agenda 2063 and its attendant action plan. The aim should be to support research collaboration in selected fields among Africa and the member universities and to strengthen the research infrastructure at the member universities such as Science laboratory and training equipment; research in agricultural value addition and food security; infrastructure planning and management; research in public health and infectious diseases management as well as research in refugee and migration issues.
Prof. Kakumba emphasized that signing an MoU is a great step in the right direction. This should follow a statement of clear roles and responsibilities, and mutual benefits. Furthermore;
- There is need to plan big but start small.
- There should be options of choosing a low cost, simple activity with high impact such as seminars, workshops, regular partnership meetings, student/staff exchange to give partner institutions a chance to learn about each other’s systems, processes and stakeholders.
- There is need to plan and understand the individual institution’s responsibilities and obligations in the partnership and set up timelines, deliverables and milestones.
- It is crucial to establish exactly who will be involved, how communication should happen and what decisions need to be taken in the short term.
Following presentations by all the six African Universities, a discussion was made to explore common grounds on how the European Alliance can serve African partners. In his remarks, Associate Prof. Robert Wamala emphasized the need to document the roles and expectations of the African in the Alliance. In his remarks, Robert Wamala noted that Universities in the CIVIS Alliance were at a higher advantage in regards to research capacity when compared to the African counterparts. Therefore, the need to build an equal partnership in an unequal world needed to be prioritized.
Expectation(s) of the Collaboration
Collaboration in CIVIS is organized around hubs in five multidisciplinary research areas linked to CIVIS values where multiculturalism and multilingualism are encouraged and emphasized , working together to address UN Sustainable Development Goals. The four Hub Chairs made presentations of respective hubs: (i) Hub One focuses on Climate, Environment and Energy; (ii) Hub Two focuses on Society, Culture and Heritage; (iii) Hub Three focuses on Health; and (iv) Hub Four focuses on Cities, Territories and Mobilities. Hub Five is yet to be established. Activities in the Hubs include webinars, workshops, summer schools, field camps and course offerings. Each Hub must have at least three or more CIVIS universities.
All participating universities agreed that there was need to move from unilateral projects to multilateral partnerships and provide input into AU-EU Innovation Agenda and establish advanced study centres. It was noted that in order to have successful international partnerships, equity, trust, transparency and mutual respect for the needs and interests of partners were key to their success and sustainability.
Research collaboration is very important with European universities. The funding received is normally from Erasmus+ but there is need to move further to funding agencies that provide support for education such as CIVIS. It was further noted that mobility and exchanges of students and staff is there to stay and cannot replace human interaction, and other forms of education need to be developed and blended with virtual mobility. Furthermore, what is good for our students is good for our partnerships“Together we are stronger”. In this partnership, there is need to have a joint practical collaboration by “Building an equal partnership in an unequal world”
Signing of Agreements
At the end of the three- day conference, the Vice Chancellors of the African universities signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement with CIVIS (A European Civic University Alliance) to lay a foundation for collaboration in research and education focusing on societal challenges, mobilities and institutional development.
Expectations of Makerere University
Similar to the rest of the African Universities, Associate Prof. Umar Kakumba presented the expectations of Makerere University from the Alliance. These included, but were not limited to the following:
- Potential for staff and student mobility within member universities in the Alliance
- Development of joint degree programs around the hub themes
- Mobilization of international funding for research
- Cross disciplinary activities including workshops, seminars and Conferences
- Improving research infrastructure in partner universities in the Alliance
Photo Gallery
Compiled by Ms. Martha Muwanguzi, International Officer, Makerere University
On Saturday, 5th September 2026, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs urged the Makerere University community to actively engage in local philanthropy as a vital way to support vulnerable members of our society. Prof. Ssali shared this message during the Community Open Day for Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University, where Prof. Claire Mack Mugasa, Dean of the School of Biosecurity, Biotechnology, and Laboratory, represented her and served as the guest of honour.
At the event attended by Mastercard Foundation Scholars (Mak Students and Alumni), mentors, partners, and the broader university community, Prof. Ssali emphasised the importance of giving back to the community. She expressed her appreciation for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, highlighting their commitment to generosity. Prof. Ssali encouraged the entire university community to adopt similar practices, fostering a culture of social responsibility that shall positively influence and uplift surrounding communities.
“We gather here today not simply for an event, but for a statement of intent. The Community Open Day is a platform built on the conviction that education, paired with a spirit of national service, can transform not only individual lives but entire communities,” Prof. Ssali remarked. “I therefore call upon the Makerere University community to embrace the spirit of giving back to our communities. It is one of the ways through which the university will positively impact the less advantaged amongst us,” Prof. Ssali added.
Ms. Maria Mugerwa, the Head of Finance at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, who represented the Foundation at the event, emphasised that giving back to the community is at the core of everything the Foundation does.
“I thank you, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars community at Makerere University, for bringing us together for this Community Open Day, one of the activities that sits at the heart of Mastercard Foundation: using opportunities to create opportunities for others.” Ms. Mugerwa remarked.
“Today is about community, connection and giving back. Giving back doesn’t require big projects or significant resources; it simply requires identifying a problem in your community and asking yourself what I can do about it.” Ms. Mugerwa pointed out.
Rotarian Francis Wangi, the day’s keynote speaker, reminded the scholars and guests present of the importance of giving back to the community. He noted that individuals’ success is tied to others’ well-being.
“Let us always think about others: ‘I am because we are.’ Our individual success is tied to the well-being of our neighbours, our villages, and our nation.” Wangi noted.
Mr. Wangi reminded the gathering that giving back to the community was not an act of Charity; rather, it was a fundamental responsibility of leadership.
“Giving back to the less advantaged in our communities is not an act of charity; it is a fundamental responsibility of leadership. True influence is measured by how much we lift others as we rise.” Wangi emphasized.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, Program Director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, represented by Ms. Jolly Okumu, stated that the Foundation considers education as equipping and empowering transformative leaders, a means to prepare young people to use their skills and networks for meaningful contributions to their communities.
“The Mastercard Foundation believes that education goes beyond acquiring knowledge and qualifications; it is also about developing young people who are prepared to apply their knowledge, skills and networks to contribute meaningfully to their communities.” Prof. Namaalwa remarked.
Prof. Namaalwa applauded the Mastercard Foundation Scholars (Mak Students and Alumni) for embracing the spirit of giving back through tangible community projects. Highlighting that the community open day was an opportunity to celebrate the community impact to date and launch a journey of change for yet another disadvantaged community.
“As we gather today, we celebrate the long-term community impact through the many transformative projects delivered since 2015, and we, the Scholars Program Community at Makerere University, are here to continue on the same journey with yet another community; we are here to demonstrate that every individual has something to offer in the transformation of our communities,” Prof. Namaalwa noted.
Mr Paul Wandera Makhulo, the Chairperson of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Association at Makerere University, used the occasion to remind his fellow young people of the importance of giveback as one of the ethos of Mastercard Foundation.
“To my fellow Scholars, I make a special appeal: Let us own Giveback. Let us not see it as an initiative belonging only to your nominated Executive Committee or the Giveback Committee; let us see it as our responsibility as Scholars.” Wandera pointed out.
Mr. Elphas Khamala, the representative of the Scholars Council and Chairperson of the Giveback Committee, used the event to raise awareness of the 2026 Scholars Giveback Project. He said the project aims to raise UGX 86 million to build a two-classroom block with 60 bench desks, improve sanitation by constructing a ventilated pit latrine, and install a water-harvesting system at Eastern Gate Nursery and Primary School in Amuru District.
The school is in Pacilo parish, Atiak subcounty, Amuru district, about 8-10 km from the South Sudan border. It was established in 2023 as a community initiative and has not received external funding. It currently has about 164 learners, from nursery to Primary Seven, and 10 teachers, including children from the refugee communities.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and its partner initiative, the Africa Climate Collaborative, organised the Scholars Community Open Day in collaboration with DFCU Bank and other partners, including FINCA Bank, Tamani Solutions, and Katumba Estates.
Held under the theme “Together for Impact: Celebrating Innovations and Giveback,” the event brought together Scholars (Mak Students and Alumni), the university community, partners, and members of the public to celebrate community initiatives and gather support for the 2026 Scholars’ Annual Day of Service.
Of the targeted UGX 86 million, undergraduate and graduate Scholars and Program Team members will raise at least UGX 30 million, while the remaining funds will be mobilised from partners; university leadership and alumni are expected to mobilise the remainder. The funds will finance a two-classroom block estimated at UGX 63.5 million, 60 bench desks at UGX 6 million, a staff latrine at UGX 8 million, and a 10,000-litre water tank with a water-harvesting system estimated at UGX 8.5 million.
Background
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program began its first phase in 2013 at Makerere University, marking the start of an impactful partnership. In 2023, this collaboration was renewed with the launch of Phase Two of the Scholars Program. Central to this initiative are activities focused on community engagement and giving back, which play a vital role in fostering leadership development among scholars.
Bernard Buteera is the Principal Communication and Public Relations Officer for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
General
Celebrating a 26-year Legacy at Makerere: Deputy AR Mr. Charles Ssentongo hands over to Mr. Justus Karegyeya
Hot on the heels of completing 26 years of exemplary service and unwavering dedication to Makerere University, Mr. Charles Ssentongo has today 10th September 2026 officially handed over the office of Deputy Academic Registrar – Undergraduate Admissions and Records to Mr. Justus Karegyeya. Mr. Ssentongo held this position for 16 years in both acting and substantive capacity.
The transition was completed during an official handover ceremony held at the Senate building, Level 3, in the presence of the Academic Registrar Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, staff, and colleagues who gathered to celebrate Mr. Ssentongo’s monumental contribution to the University and also witness the handover as he retires from University service.
Appreciation for Mr. Ssentongo’s Contribution to the Academic Registry at Mak
Prof. Buyinza commended Ssentongo for inviting staff and collegaues to what he called an important and symbolic moment.
He acknowledged this as a moment of transition from one life cycle to another, and assured Mr. Ssentongo that Makerere University will always value his service, and he will remain an important part of its story and enduring legacy.
Considering that the two portfolios Ssentongo has been in charge of for the past 16 years; admissions and records, are the central pillars in any university, Prof. Buyinza commended him for having manned them with a distinction.
He further reiterated that these two pillars, admission and records, are where control over who is admitted, and protection of the academic awards of the university is exercised. Mr. Ssentongo, Prof. Buyinza noted, has executed this dual task very well through a strong commitment to safeguarding the university systems and processes. His was a tenure defined by diligence, integrity, professionalism, and devotion.
Prof. Buyinza further thanked him for having helped strengthen the records management system in the university by ensuring personal academic documents are secured from unauthorised access.
“We do not see these documents flying all over. So, we thank you for having contributed to the advancement of our systems and to greater efficiency” Prof. Buyinda expressed.
Beyond technical contribution, Ssentongo’s integrity, humble disposition, demeanor, credibility, and willingness to support others was commended, for he has used this to mentor as many staff as possible. As Mr. Ssentongo, steps out of office, he leaves behind a very strong, formidable team that will carry forward his legacy.
Prof. Buyinza extended the University Management’s sincere gratitude to Mr. Ssentongo for the many years of dedicated service to Makerere, and renewed its commitment to continue strengthening the processes that have been built.
Mr. Charles Ssentogo’s Handover message and ceremony
While delivering his handover speech, Mr. Charles Ssentogo thanked God and Makerere University Council for the opportunity given to him to work here since January 2000.
He shared that since he joined as an Assistant Registrar, he has been deployed in the Undergraduate Admissions and Records division where he has grown through the ranks. And whereas Ssentongo was appointed as the Head of the division and Acting Deputy Academic Registrar in 2010, it was not until 2018 when he was confirmed in substantive capacity.
He extended heartfelt appreciation to all supervisors that he was privileged to work under and thanked them for the support and guidance rendered to him.
Key Achievements highlighted during his tenure:
- Mentoring and training of staff.
- Advertising accredited programmes.
- Managing government-sponsored student admissions for all public universities.
- Digitalising the admissions process via the ACMIS system.
- Successfully managing special admission schemes (such as mature age, district quota, disability, and sports) and amicably resolving admission disputes.
- Coordinating division activities with external bodies, including UNEB.
- Reorganising records through the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project for efficient electronic access.
- Conducting successful career guidance sessions in schools.
Counsel offered to the incoming Deputy Academic Registrar:
- Read and internalise policy for effective management of duties and informed dispensation of advice when called upon.
- Serve diligently by executing your duties timely and avoiding unnecessary arguments.
- Verify the handover report before signing it off.
Professional growth of Mr. Sentongo while at Makerere
Mr. Ssentongo joined Makerere University in 2000 as Assistant Registrar and was confirmed in the university service January 2002, and in 2006, was promoted to the position of Senior Assistant Registrar.
In 2009 he was posted to the Examinations and Transcripts Division as Head of Transcripts section, where he served for one year. In 2010 he was transferred back to Undergraduate Admissions and Records Division as its Head and designated as Acting Deputy Academic Registrar.
In 2018 he was confirmed as substantive Deputy Academic Registrar and Head of the Undergraduate Admissions and Records Division, a position he held until his official retirement on 9th September 2026.
Mr. Justus Karegyeya accepts to take on the position in acting capacity
In his remarks, Mr. Karegyeya formally accepted the interim appointment, admitting that he was experiencing a sense of both being overwhelmed and gratitude for the opportunity.
He highlighted his extensive history within the Division, admitting that this gives him a deep familiarity with the unit’s internal processes.
Therefore, in this new capacity, Karegyeya appreciated the mentorship the team has received from Mr. Ssentongo, which he emphasised has prepared them to execute their duties effectively.
He pledged to maintain operational continuity by picking up exactly from where his former supervisor left off, and continuing the specific tasks that were previously recorded. Karegyeya equally expressed his readiness to hold the position until the Human Resources Directorate completes the process of recruiting a substantive replacement.
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