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WUN’s Prof. Lennie Visits Mak, Applauds Impactful Membership

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The Executive Director, Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), Prof. Peter Lennie who is on a two-day fact-finding visit to Makerere has applauded the University’s impactful membership since she joined the network on 20th September 2020. Makerere has since joining WUN partnered on six successful applications, and is lead partner on one of them courtesy of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES)’ Dr. Isaac Newton Alou.

Founded in the year 2000, the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN) is a leading global higher education network of 25 research-intensive universities. These are drawn from Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Ghana, Ireland, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, Switzerland, Thailand, Uganda, United Kingdom, and the United States.

Prof. Lennie’s visit to Makerere started off with a morning engagement with the University Management on Monday 21st March 2022, where he was welcomed by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

“We thank you very much for the invitation to join WUN. Our staff are now applying for research grants with member universities. This is aligned to enhancing the internationalization of higher education as well as Makerere University’s implementation of strategies to become a research-led University” said the Prof. Nawangwe in appreciation.

The Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (3rd L) and WUN ED-Dr. Peter Lennie (4th R) with DVCAA-Assoc. Prof. Umar Kakumba (3rd R), Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Henry Alinaitwe and Members of Management after the interaction on 21st March 2022 in the Council Room, Makerere University.
The Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (3rd L) and WUN ED-Prof. Peter Lennie (4th R) with DVCAA-Prof. Umar Kakumba (3rd R), Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Henry Alinaitwe and Members of Management after the interaction on 21st March 2022 in the Council Room, Makerere University.

The WUN Executive Director thanked the Vice Chancellor and members of Management for the warm welcome and commended Makerere for uniquely contributing to the network. He explained that the network focuses on research in universities capitalizing on the university potential with respect to comparative advantage in regions, disciplines, fields and culture. He added that WUN distinguishes itself from other networks by focusing on research as opposed to education, as well as engagements with international bodies and organisations such as the UN agencies.

Prof. Lennie added that WUN through its Research Development Fund provides support to establish collaborative research under four globally significant themes of; climate change, public health, global higher education and research, and understanding cultures.  

Following the engagement with University Management during which the Vice Chancellor presented an assortment of souvenirs to Prof. Lennie, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Prof. Umar Kakumba chaired a session during which the Executive Director met with the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT), College Principals, Deans and researchers.

The DVCAA, Assoc. Prof. Umar Kakumba (L) introduces Dr. Peter Lennie to the Principals and Deans.
The DVCAA, Prof. Umar Kakumba (L) introduces Prof. Peter Lennie to the Principals and Deans.

Introducing Prof. Lennie to the audience in the Telepresence Centre, Senate Building, the DVCAA said the Executive Director is a Professor and Neuroscientist at the University of Rochester. Prof. Lennie is the founding Chair of the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences at Rochester, where he has also served as Vice President and Provost.

The DVCAA acknowledged that staff and students had greatly benefited from Makerere’s WUN membership. “Four of our students have been able to participate in the Summer School programme at the University of York, Dr. Dorothy Okello has been working with a team to support the WUN and as a result of initiatives by member universities, a team from the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering as well as the School of Psychology were supposed to go to South Africa before COVID interrupted.”

Prof. Kakumba then introduced Associate Prof. John Mango from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) who has been appointed as WUN Coordinator for Makerere University, with support from the Office of the DVCAA.

During the interaction that followed his presentation, Prof. Lennie clarified that although the WUN’s support to collaborative research falls in the four aforementioned globally significant themes, researchers were free to propose a new theme through their WUN Coordinator for consideration for funding under the Research Development Fund (RDF). The RDF has invested over £2.4 million in the last 13 years, with awards of £10,000 to each successful applicant.

Assoc. Prof. John Mango (3rd R) and Dr. Peter Lennie (4th R) with CAES Deans and Researchers at MUARIK.
Assoc. Prof. John Mango (3rd R) and Dr. Peter Lennie (4th R) with CAES Deans and Researchers at MUARIK.

Prof. Lennie’s interaction with Principals and Deans was followed by a visit to the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) and thereafter the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) and Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK). Facilities toured at MUARIK included the Makerere University Regional Centre for Crop Improvement (MaRCCI), Dairy Farm, Poultry Farm, Agricultural Engineering Lab, Smart Green House – Hydroponics facility established with support from Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), and students and staff hostels.

On Tuesday 22nd March 2022, Prof. Lennie will conclude his fact-finding visit to Makerere University with a trip to the School of Public Health (MakSPH), College of Health Sciences (CHS).

Written by:  Ritah Namisango, Mak Public Relations Office

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Change of Course/Programme for Undergraduate Admissions 2025/2026

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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

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

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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

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Makerere University Hosts Delegation from Ghent University Association

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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

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