General
Hon. Dr. Musenero Launches NORHED Week, Calls for Industry-Impacting Research
The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (MoSTI), Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero on Monday 25th April, 2022 presided over the opening ceremony of the NORHED Week in Uganda and rallied researchers to ensure that their findings flow beyond academia into communities. She noted that the value chain approach adopted by the National Science, Technology and Innovation agenda necessitates that research produces industry-ready prototypes that feed into commercialisation and subsequently, the market. She prayed that this agenda would be at the back of researchers’ and funders’ minds as they embark on the next phase of projects.
Set to be held from 25th to 29th April 2022, the Week will create a platform for researchers who won grants under NORHED II to meet and share experiences as well as discuss possible links and synergies across projects. Furthermore, the Week will create a platform for researchers to discuss how NORHED can contribute to strengthening higher education and research in Uganda. NORHED is the Norwegian Programme for Capacity Development in Higher Education and Research for Development.
In his welcome remarks, the day’s Moderator, NORHED Coordinator and Director, Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi noted that Makerere University is participating in 19 of Uganda’s 21 NORHED II projects, a proportion he described as the “lion’s share”. A total of 60 projects were awarded globally under NORHED II funding, set to run from 2021 to 2026.
“We have enjoyed a mutually beneficial cooperation and now have ample evidence that Norway invests in knowledge and competence building and prides itself in the knowledge society with ability to create and make practical use of the new scientific discoveries.
“This is a shared vision at Makerere and we are committed to continue playing this important role because we believe the knowledge economy is the way to go. It is heartwarming to see that Makerere is contributing enormously to the National Development Plan through research output, dissemination and outreach activities” remarked Prof. Buyinza.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe in his remarks shared that all 19 projects that Makerere is participating in are designed to address multidisciplinary themes, steered by the University Strategic Plan 2020-2030. “Indeed, strategic investment in research lays the foundation for development of any country’s intellectual strategies, competent workforce, progressive leaders, gender equality and human rights.”
Prof. Nawangwe added that NORAD; the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, and other development partners have played a fundamental role in augmenting Internally Generated Funds at Makerere University, which has helped to substantially tackle the shortage of funds for research and infrastructural development.
“Makerere now has one of the best research management infrastructures on the African continent largely due to the support of the Norwegian Government” he added.
The Vice Chancellor thanked the Norwegian Government for enhancing Makerere‘s capacity to train PhDs locally, which has drastically reduced the number of staff trained entirely in Norway or on sandwich programmes.
“Out of the 100 PhDs, 85 are locally trained and only 15 staff members will go on sandwich training, which would not have been possible 30 years ago. When we started, almost all the students had to go to Norway” added Prof. Nawangwe.
Addressing participants, the Head of Delegation, Ms. Solbjørg Sjøveian said that NORHED is not only about strengthening Universities but the long-term effects that this capacity building has on societies. She added that NORHED seeks to build equitable partnerships for mutual learning and knowledge sharing with a strong South-South component, that enables younger less-established universities to learn from their more-established peers.
“One example is Makerere University which has taken a regional role in contributing to strengthening other universities both in Uganda and neighbouring countries like South Sudan” said Ms. Sjøveian. “Makerere is an important partner for Norad. As an institution you have strong commitment and dedication by both individual researchers as well as at unit level” she added.
The Head of Delegation therefore paid tribute to this pivotal role played by Makerere University in the region, especially as the institution celebrates her centenary anniversary.
Echoing the Head of Delegation’s pivotal role remark, Arne Haug the Minister Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission at the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Uganda who represented the Ambassador H.E. Elin Østebø Johansen emphasised that it is important to strengthen the research capacity at Makerere University.
“Makerere is the leading institution in Uganda and therefore provides the largest number of human resources to other universities. Norway’s support has therefore not just focused on Makerere but it has evolved and responded to the ever changing needs in Higher Education in Uganda” remarked Mr. Haug.
He took note of the; School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering, School of Women and Gender Studies, School of Computing and Informatics Technology buildings as well as furnishing of the Main Library Extension as some of the physical infrastructure that had been built with support from Norway on Makerere‘s “beautiful” Main Campus. The Vice Chancellor later brought to light that the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) Extension was the last and largest infrastructural undertaking by the Norwegian Government at the Main Campus.
Prior to declaring the NORHED Week open, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero, a self-confessed student of Vision 2040 and its constituent National Development Plans (NDPs), thanked the Norwegian Government and other development partners for laying the foundation upon which Higher Education would contribute to the attainment of Uganda’s development objectives.
Hon. Dr. Musenero shared that whereas NDP I (2010/11-2014/15) had been aimed at “addressing the fundamentals”, NDP II (2015/16-2019/20) focused on “putting up basic infrastructures”. Turning to the current NDP III (2020/21-2024/24), she shared that a decision had been taken to introduce a new institutional framework with a shift from sector to programme implementation. This shift, it is envisaged will enable Uganda to put to use the baseline human resource that had been trained and infrastructure that has been put in place to take off on the industrialisation tangent.
“Over these past years and with the support of partners like Norway and many other agencies, we have worked on a number of things such as the development of human resource. I was one of the first people who were sent out on a programme from Makerere called Agricultural Research and Training Project (ARTP) in 1994.
“And we really appreciate the support of our partners. We started by taking people abroad because we didn’t have any capacity and then we moved to sandwich programmes and now as I have been informed, we are shifting to developing people on the ground” acknowledged the Honourable Minister.
Turning back to the current phase of development under NDP III, Hon. Dr. Musenero invited the delegation from NORHED and other partners to move in step with the National strategy that seeks to promote research that results into products. The shift to product-centric research, she noted, would inspire the growth of industries that would in turn create the jobs, and eventually the environment that sustains the welfare of the youth.
“Our focus in NDP III is to invite and request all the partners to see how we can now tackle the issue of employment, and science and technology has been given the pivotal role, because if we do not translate these computer laboratories and infrastructure into jobs, we shall still have the problem and cheat the leaders of the future” remarked Hon. Dr. Musenero.
The official opening was followed by a Keynote address on “Digitalization and gender inclusiveness in teaching, research and administration in Uganda-Post Covid-19 era” by Dr. Ruth Nsibirano, and discussion led by Dr. Dorothy Okello. This was followed by the second keynote address by Dr. Vincent Ssembatya on “PhD training as a pillar in Uganda’s Economic and Sustainable Development”, which was discussed by Prof. John David Kabasa.
The NORHED Week itinerary prepared by a team led by Assoc. Prof. John Mango, will feature presentations by projects categorised according to sessions on Education and Health (5 projects), Humanities and Social Sciences (6 projects) as well as Climate Change, Natural Resources and Energy (10 projects). On Wednesday 27th April, the Delegation will meet Members of Makerere University Management, visit selected NORHED-II project Research Labs/Research Sites and on Thursday 28th April, visit Makerere University Business School (MUBS). The delegation will crown the week by meeting the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology on Friday 29th April 2022.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA) Prof. Sarah Ssali on 15th July 2026 commended the Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU)’s Industrial Trainee Program, describing it as the perfect hands-on intervention for the future workforce. She made the comments while on a guided tour of RENU’s on-campus Lab facility where ten undergraduate students from Makerere and other Universities are undergoing a two-month practical training.
Origin of tour
The tour was prompted by a 24th June 2026 meeting with a RENU delegation led by CEO, Mr. Nicholas Mbonimpa, aimed at broadening the existing partnership with Makerere University beyond internet service provision to supporting teaching, learning and research activities. During the said meeting, Prof. Ssali expressed Makerere‘s desire to produce graduates that are not only academically grounded but also cognizant of the needs of the job market.
In his response then, Mr. Mbonimpa expressed RENU’s readiness to continue advancing digital transformation through advancing resilient connectivity, research infrastructure, and innovative initiatives that enhance teaching, learning, and research. He shared that the Senate Building’s computer network had been revamped in line with advancing resilient connectivity, and the initiative would be expanded to the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) buildings and other premises subsequently.
The RENU CEO further highlighted that resilient connectivity forms a good basis for the proposed Open Radio Access Network (RAN) Architecture deployment set to be done within six months, so as to boost training of students in 5G and other technologies. Other initiatives discussed included training staff and students on acquisition of Open Researcher and Contributor ID (ORCID) to improve visibility of their publications and research output.
Training Program Lauded
Addressing student interns during the 15th July guided tour, the DVCAA who was accompanied by the 92nd Guild Speaker Rt. Hon. Trevis Mutatiina Muhwezi urged beneficiaries to harness all the technical and social opportunities accorded by the Program. “Not all students in your respective academic programmes had the benefit of being exposed to this kind of training so please make the most of it and utilize skills gained here beyond the classroom setting”.
The 2026 Industrial Trainee Program is equipping students with skills on how to diagnose and repair ICT equipment based on old and disused stock.
Prof Ssali was also toured the makerspace where solar-powered routers are manufactured and deployed to extend internet connectivity to both rural and urban locations. In 2023, RENU partnered with Mesh++, a Chicago-based connectivity solutions manufacturer, to manufacture solar-powered internet routers in Uganda. Since inception, over 200 units have been manufactured and deployed across various sites in Uganda, while over 80 units have been shipped to various African countries such as Malawi, Rwanda and South Sudan under the RENUMESH Technologies joint venture.
Partnerships Inspiring New Prototypes
The RENU CEO nevertheless pointed to a long turnaround time for shipping parts from the U.S. as one of the drawbacks hindering the product’s rapid deployment. As a result, RENU, in response to the Ugandan Government’s call for import substitution and local capacity development is developing a solar-powered internet router with some of the components sourced from Ugandan companies Innovex and Chloride Excide.
“Innovex will supply the Internet of Things (IoT) component to help RENU remotely monitor and control the router while Chloride Excide will provide the batteries” Mr. Mbonimpa explained. He added that some of the current lot of trainees were already running simulations on the prototype and proposing how the device can be further refined so as to increase its portability and reduce its price.
A call for Expansion
At the conclusion of the tour, Prof. Ssali who commended the use of modular Ugandan components for the prototype thanked the RENU team to exposing students to real-world technological deployments. She nevertheless urged the CEO and his team to expand the program’s intake beyond ten trainees and duration beyond the current two months so as to give students a richer experience.
The CEO RENUMESH Technologies Mr. Brian Masiga thanked the DVCAA for following up their 24th June meeting with the visit, which demonstrates that the University Management values students’ development of practical skills. He equally thanked Prof. Ssali for Management’s support to RENU activities and pledged to further refine the prototype to produce a cheaper and more portable proudly Ugandan product.
General
Makerere University Launches First Writing Summer School to Strengthen Professional Writing Skills.
KAMPALA, UGANDA, EAST AFRICA| July 6, 2026.
Makerere University has officially launched its inaugural writing summer school, a week long professional development program aimed at equipping students, graduates, researchers and staff with practical writing skills required for academic excellence and success in today’s competitive job market. The program jointly organized by the Makerere University Writing Centre and Makerere University Press (MakPress), reflects the University’s commitment to nurturing graduates with not only academic knowledge but also the communication skills needed to thrive professionally.
Held virtually, the launch attracted more than 280 participants from Makerere University and other higher education institutions, demonstrating the growing demand for structured writing support beyond the classroom.
Building the Next Generation of Writers.
Speaking at the launch, the Director of Makerere Writing Press, Prof. William Tayeebwa, said the summer school represents an important investment in developing writers before their work reaches publication.
“The press has traditionally focused on publishing books, journals and scholarly work. Today, we are expanding that mission by helping and develop the writers who will produce tomorrow’s publication.
He noted that MakPress continues to support the publication of books and scholarly works produced by members of the Makerere Community. Using recently published books authored by a member of staff and a student as examples, he encouraged participants to submit manuscripts for publishing support rather than relying solely on self publication.
Writing as a Foundation for Academic and Professional Success.
Chairperson of the Makerere University Writing Centre, Prof. Frederick Muyodi, said the center was established to strengthen the writing competences among students, researchers and university staff.
” The Writers Center is here to support every stage of the writing process from CVs and application letters to research manuscripts, grant proposals, reports and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in writing.”
He explained that the Centre supports writing across multiple disciplines and professional contexts, adding that its long term vision is to extend writing support beyond Makerere University to institutions across Uganda and the East African region.
Equipping Graduates for the Labour Market.
Officially launching the summer school, the First Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, described the initiative as a strategic investment in preparing graduates for an increasingly competitive labour market.
She observed that while universities successfully impart disciplinary knowledge, many graduates leave campus without the practical writing skills required to secure employment and other professional opportunities.
“We teach content very, but many students are never taught how to write an effective CV, application letter, motivation statement or scholarly essay. Yet these are the documents that often determine whether someone secures an opportunity.”
Prof. Ssali said the writing summer school would bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice by equipping participants with market ready communication skills.
Reaffirming her office’s commitment to the initiative, she added:
“My office is pleased to support this initiative as we institutionalize the Writing Summer School to ensure that Makerere graduates leave not only with degrees but also with practical competencies needed to thrive professionally,”
She officially declared the inaugural Writing Summer School open and expressed optimism that future editions would attract even more participants and resources.
Participants Gain Practical CV Writing Skills.
The first technical session was facilitated by Mr. Abdul Noor Luttamaguzi, a PhD student in the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences within the School of Bio sciences at Makerere University, a Senior Fisheries Officer with Luweero District Local Government, and the founder and director of the ANL Foundation, an organization that supports youth employment and capacity building.
During the session, he guided participants on developing competitive CVs tailored to specific professionals and employer expectations. He emphasized that applicants should customize their CVs to suit each opportunity instead of submitting the same document for every application. Participants also learned how effectively present their education, work experience, leadership roles technical competencies and professional achievements, while avoiding unnecessary personal information. Practical demonstrations using professional specific CVs provided participants with hands on examples of preparing competitive job application documents.
Looking Ahead.
The Writing Summer School continues throughout the week sessions on application letter writing, responsible use of artificial intelligence, professional communication and other essential writing skills aimed at improving academic productivity and employablity.
Through initiatives such as the Writing Summer School, Makerere University continues to strengthen its commitment to producing graduates who are not academically accomplished but also equipped with practical communication skills that enable them to compete and lead in today’s global workplace.
General
Makerere Launches Strategic Plan 2025-2030 to Drive Research, Innovation and National Development.
Kampala, Uganda East Africa.
Makerere University has officially launched its Strategic Plan 2025-2030, reaffirming its commitment to advancing research, innovation, academic excellence and human capital development in support of Uganda’s national transformation agenda.
The Strategic Plan, unveiled by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, provides a road map for strengthening the University’s contribution to Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy through research, innovation, entrepreneurship and the production of highly skilled graduates.
The launch, held at the University’s Main Hall, brought together government officials, members of the University Council, management, development partners, staff and students to witness what leaders described as the beginning of Makerere University’s next phase of institutional transformation.
Positioning Makerere for National Transformation.
Delivering his remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe said the Strategic Plan reflects Makerere University’s ambition to become an even stronger research led institution that responds directly to Uganda’s development priorities.
He noted that the University intends to restore student enrollment to pre COVID levels while significantly increasing postgraduate training to produce more researchers, innovators and professionals capable of addressing national challenges.
Prof. Nawangwe also highlighted the University’s growing research portfolio, commending researchers and research centers that continue to attract substantial international funding.
“when you combine the grants won by all our researchers through competitive international funding, the total exceeds US$200 million,” He said.
The Vice Chancellor also pointed to the need to strengthen the University’s academic workforce, noting that although progress has been made, more investment is required to fill approved academic positions, particularly at professor and associate professor levels.
Strategic Plan Sets Ambitious Institutional Targets.
Chairperson of the University Council, Dr. Lorna Magara, described the Strategic Plan as more than an institutional document, calling it “a public covenant with the people of Uganda.”
She said the Plan outlines measurable commitments that will guide the University’s performance over the next five years, including expanding postgraduate enrolment, increasing STEM participation, improving doctoral completion rates and strengthening research productivity.
“Ambition is precisely what this moment demands. A strategic plan is not measured by the elegance of its language, but by the lives it transforms,” she said.
Dr. Magara emphasized that every investment in Makerere University should translate into tangible benefits for society through research, innovation, leadership and skilled graduates.
She also called for reforms to Uganda’s Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act to strengthen university governance and create an enabling environment for innovation and knowledge production.
Government Reaffirms Support.
Launching the Strategic Plan, Hon. Henry Musasizi commended Makerere University for aligning its institutional priorities with Uganda’s Vision 2040, the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) and the country’s Tenfold Growth Strategy.
He observed that universities remain central actors in national development because they produce the knowledge, innovation and skilled workforce required to transform Uganda’s economy.
“Universities are central actors in national transformation. they are engines of knowledge creation, innovation and human capital development,” he said.
The Minister emphasized government’s commitment to supporting research, innovation and stronger collaboration between universities and industry to ensure that knowledge generated within higher education institutions contributes directly to economic growth.
Universities Critical to Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy.
Presenting the national development perspective, Samuel Kasule, Senior Planner at the National Planning Authority, explained that the Strategic Plan aligns closely with the Uganda’s long term development framework.
He noted that achieving the country’s ambitious economic growth targets will depend heavily on universities producing competent graduates, expanding research and strengthening innovation ecosystems that support priority sectors including agriculture, tourism, ICT, minerals, manufacturing, and oil and gas.
Kasule further underscored the importance of competency based education and post graduate training in building the human capital required for sustainable national development.
A Shared Vision for the Future.
Throughout the launch, speakers emphasized that Makerere University’s future lies in becoming an increasingly research intensive, innovation driven institution that responds to national and global development challenges.
The Strategic Plan 2025-2030 outlines priorities that include strengthening research excellence, promoting innovation and commercialization, expanding digital transformation, enhancing partnerships with industry, and producing graduates equipped to drive socioeconomic transformation.
Its launch marks a renewed commitment by Makerere University to remain at the forefront of knowledge generation and to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s long term development aspirations.
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