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Mak-CAES Hosts Hybrid Seminar on Finding the Best Cattle Genetics for Africa (OPTIBOV project)

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OPTIBOV: Genetic Characterization of Cattle Populations for Optimal Performance in Africa Eco Systems

A large variety of local indigenous and commercial cattle breeds has been produced as a result of domestication and selection. This variety ensures the capability and adaptability of livestock to fulfil its role in food production under different circumstances, now and in the future. Local breeds exhibit unique adaptive features to harsh environments, which can be useful for adjusting mainstream breeds to climate change. Simply transferring high producing commercial animals to the African continent, will not be the solution due to low performance and even low survival under these harsh environments (ecosystems). The aim of the OPTIBOV project is to improve production and survival of traditional/indigenous breeds adapted to the local environments in Africa. This will secure the future of these well adapted traditional/indigenous local breeds.With combined effort from partners across the globe, the OPTIBOV project will help maintain traditional cattle breeds, capture adaptation, use known variations in production, train, educate & involve stakeholders to perform optimal breeding.

The OPTIBOV project team during the seminar at CAES.
The OPTIBOV project team during the seminar at CAES.

The project is coordinated in The Netherlands (Wageningen University and Research Centre). Participating institutions include; Makerere University, Uganda; Natural Resources Institute Finland; Agricultural Research Council Pretoria, South-Africa; University of Porto, Portugal; Cairo University, Egypt; and Taurus Foundation Netherlands.

Project members include; Dr. Richard Crooijmans, Wageningen University, The Netherlands; Dr. Donald Kugonza, Department of Agricultural Production, Makerere University; Prof. Juha Kantanen, Natural Resources Institute Finland; Dr. Nasser Ghanem, University of Cairo, Egypt; Dr. Linky Makgahlela, Pretoria, South Africa; and Dr. Catarina Ginja from Portugal.

The project is supported by LEAP-Agri, a joint Europe Africa Research and Innovation (R&I) initiative related to Food and Nutrition Security and Sustainable Agriculture (FNSSA).

An important deliverable of the project is a new genotyping assay specific for African cattle breeds which will include markers associated with specific traits.

Dr. Richard Crooijmans, OPTIBOV Project leader from Wageningen University, The Netherlands.
Dr. Richard Crooijmans, OPTIBOV Project leader from Wageningen University, The Netherlands.

Expected outcomes and impact:                         

  1. A uniform bovine phenotype scoring list for adaptation traits.
  2. Genome-wide information of the traditional breeds. Giving knowledge on the amount of diversity but also on the amount of inbreeding, detection of potential genetic defects and selective sweeps related to adaptation to a specific environment.
  3. The obtained information can be used to improve traits by selection of animals within or over breeds such as longevity, production and resistance to diseases. This will increase production, longevity and reduces cost for medical treatments which will result in breed performance in the next generations.
  4. Training of young researchers will be conducted to use the latest technology and techniques and how to implement the findings in breeding.
  5. Involvement of all stakeholders up to farmers by creating an APP, database and website to submit data and actively participate within the research.

Hybrid seminar

On 25th April 2022, the project team met at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University to share updates on activities in the respective countries. The hybrid seminar was hosted by Dr Donald Kugonza and Dr Morris Agaba.

The OPTIBOV Project team led by Dr. Donald Kugonza (extreme Left) meeting the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (C).
The OPTIBOV Project team led by Dr. Donald Kugonza (extreme Left) meeting the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (C).

Seminar presentations/issues being researched

  1. Traditional cattle genomics: search for adaptive markers–Dr Richard crooijmans, Wageningen University in The Netherlands;
  2. Developments in SNP genotyping and next generation sequencing in South African indigenous cattle – Dr AA Zwane, a Researcher in Animal Breeding and Genetics, Agricultural Research Council-Animal Production (ARC-AP), Irene, Pretoria, South Africa;
  3. Molecular responses of heat stress during early embryonic development and alleviation strategies– Dr Nasser Ghanem from the Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Egypt;
  4. Application of genomics for livestock genetic improvement–Dr Linky Makgahlela, ARC-Animal Production, South Africa;
  5. Genomic characterization of northern native cattle breeds-Prof.JuhaKantanen, Natural Resources Institute Finland;
  6. Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterisation of Ankole, Ntuku and Nganda cattle of Uganda-Dr.Behabura Generous Betunga, an MSc. Animal Science student in the Department of Agricultural Production, CAES;
  7. Investigating the production and adaptive traits of indigenous cattle to eastern Uganda ecosystems-Waibi Sarah, an MSc. Livestock Development student at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University;
  8. The use of Genomic Tools to Improve Cattle, an Archaeogenomics Perspective– Dr Catarina Ginja
Dr. Catarina Ginja shares her views during the meeting.
Dr. Catarina Ginja shares her views during the meeting.

Issues arising from the research

1. Developments in SNP genotyping and next generation sequencing in South African indigenous cattle – Dr. A. A. Zwane

There is notable difference in using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data and whole genome sequence (WGS) data in characterizing SA indigenous cattle breeds

WGS data holds the potential for the improvement of indigenous livestock breeds due to the in-depth analysis genome-wide

Genetic diversity studies give the understanding of population structure, demographic history, introgression and heterozygosity levels in South Africa indigenous cattle

Identification of selective signatures provides insight into selection events that have shaped the genomes of indigenous cattle breeds, and allows the identification of important genes

This will allow genomic selection, sooner, in the indigenous breeds, and more studies are needed for other indigenous livestock species

2. Application of genomics for livestock genetic improvement – Linky Makgahlela, ARC-Animal Production, South Africa

  1. Genomics drives biological efficiency of production, boosts livestock contribution for sustainable protein source
  2. Genomics promises cutting-edge solutions: Nutritional needs of all human beings, while safeguarding natural resources, and preventing environmental degradation
  3. Genomics enables farmers to increase efficiency, decrease production costs & prophylactics and limits expenditure of resources
  4. Research (and capacity development) ongoing for better understanding of breeds and to put science to practice
Dr. Behabura Generous Betunga presents her research progress report.
Dr. Behabura Generous Betunga presents her research progress report.

3. Genomic characterization of northern native cattle breeds – Prof. Juha Kantanen, Natural Resources Institute Finland

The gene expression analysis of the northern Eurasian breeds revealed;

  1. Several differentially expressed genes (DEG) that were associated with the eicosanoid metabolic process (ALOX15, ALOX5 and HPGD) in northern Finncattle and with immunity (CCL4, CCL5 CX3CR1, CXCR6 and PRF1) and the regulation of lipid transport (ABCA1, ABCG1, IRS2 and THBS1) in Yakutian cattle.
  2. The genes involved in the immune system are also associated with environmental adaptation.
  3. The eicosanoid metabolic process was previously found to be involved in the hibernation of brown bears (Ursusarctos) and indigenous peoples associated with seasonal changes. These findings indicate a convergent evolution that may have occurred in different mammalian species living in northern and sub‐arctic environments.

4. Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterisation of Ankole, Ntuku and Nganda cattle of Uganda – Dr. Behabura Generous Betunga, Makerere University

The Ugandan cattle herd is comprised of 93.3 percent of indigenous breeds and their crossbreeds which are mainly; Long-horned cattle of Uganda (Sanga) (Bostaurusindicus); Zenga breeds (Sanga and Zebu crosses); East African short-horn Zebu (Bosindicus). The OPTIBOV breeds of interest in Uganda are; Long horned Ankole cattle (South-Western Uganda); Nganda cattle (Central-Uganda) and Ntuku cattle (Mid-Western Uganda). The study aims to carry out phenotypic characterization for performance traits and draw a genomic growth curve for Ankole, Ntuku and Nganda cattle under different management systems for a period of 0 to 18 months in Uganda. It also aims to carry out genetic characterization and measure the genetic relationship between the Ankole, Ntuku and Nganda cattle in Uganda; and to assess selection techniques (natural and human mediated) of Ankole, Ntuku and Nganda cattle of Uganda. Meetings have been held with farmers and animals selected for sampling and samples collected for analysis.

Ankole cattle
Ankole cattle
Ntuku Cattle
Ntuku Cattle

Issues arising include;

  1. The Indigenous cattle breeds are at the threat of genetic erosion. There is need for Phenotypic & genotypic Characterization for the performance traits of the Ankole, Ntuku and Nganda

5. Investigating the production and adaptive traits of indigenous cattle to eastern Uganda ecosystems

Cattle is a valuable source of income, employment & a major source of nutrition to people in the East especially Karamoja and Bukedi in Tororo. Angoria Ting and Cheptoyoi are the indigenous cattle breeds in Karamoja: Karamajong women prefer rearing goats to cows. The study aims to;

  1. To phenotypically characterize the performance and adaptive traits of the Nkedi and Karimajong cattle
  2. To develop indices for assessing the productivity of the Nkedi and Karimajong cattle
  3. To assess status and risk of erosion of the two indigenous cattle genetic resources 

 Meeting with Makerere University Vice Chancellor

In the course of the seminar, the OPTIBOV project team paid a courtesy call on Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe who congratulated them upon winning the research grant.“As we celebrate 100 years of teaching, research and innovation, such projects are vital in pushing forward our agenda of transforming Makerere into a research-led University,” he noted, pledging to accord the researchers all the support they need to achieve the project objectives.

 The project leader at Makerere University, Dr. Donald Kugonza expressed gratitude to the Vice Chancellor for the support he accorded the team in their bid for the project. 

Presentations:

Hasifa Kabejja

Agriculture & Environment

MUARIK Main Gate Gets a Facelift

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CAES staff at the refurbished main gate at MUARIK. The gate was officially commissioned by the Vice Chancellor, represented by the DVCAA, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi on 30th May 2025. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.

Refurbished gate to boost the institute’s aesthetics, security, accessibility, and sustainability

Makerere University College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) has completed the refurbishment of the main gate at the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK). The renovation was carried out by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), under the supervision of their academic mentors.

According to the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, the revamped gate now truly reflects the spirit of Makerere University and will significantly enhance the institute’s visual appeal, security, accessibility, and sustainability. The refurbished gate was officially commissioned by the Vice Chancellor, represented by the First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, alongside CAES staff, students, and partners.

The DVCAA, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi commissioning the refurbished gate. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
The DVCAA, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi commissioning the refurbished gate.

About MUARIK

Established in 1953, MUARIK serves as a hub for numerous research projects and facilities within CAES. It houses centres such as the Makerere University Regional Centre for Crop Improvement (MaRCCI), the Makerere University Centre for Soybean Improvement and Development (MakCSID), the Continuing Agricultural Education Centre (CAEC), the Centre of Excellence in Waste Management, and the Consortium for Enhancing University Responsiveness to Agribusiness Development (CURAD).

Additionally, MUARIK hosts KOICA-funded projects, including a modern layers production unit and a climate-controlled greenhouse for vegetable production. These units operate independently but collectively contribute to MUARIK’s dynamic research environment.

The team touring facilities at MUARIK. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
The team touring facilities at MUARIK.

MUARIK also houses research units for the School of Agricultural Sciences (SAS) such as the Biotechnology and Tissue Culture Laboratories, experimental fields, Horticulture and Livestock Units, and the black soldier fly project. It accommodates training and research facilities for the Schools of Food Technology, Nutrition, Bioengineering, and the School of Forestry, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences. It also hosts hostels for both local and international students who stay at the Institute to gain practical experience in production and research under typical farming conditions.

Enterprises and Research at MUARIK

Enterprises at MUARIK include approximately 100 acres of pastures, a dairy farm, feed mill, silage production, poultry unit, piggery unit, banana and coffee plantations, maize and soybean crops, horticulture, goat farming, and the recently revived rabbit unit featuring four breeds: New Zealand White, Chinchilla, California White, and Flemish Giant.

Prof. Richard Edema explaining to the team how the Rover operates, highlighting its key components, functionality, and the technology behind its movement and data collection capabilities. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Richard Edema explaining to the team how the Rover operates, highlighting its key components, functionality, and the technology behind its movement and data collection capabilities.

Current research initiatives focus on edible insects and worms as alternative livestock feeds, agroforestry, horticulture, and value addition in food processing. MUARIK maintains a strong partnership with the Uganda Flowers Exporters Association (UFEA), collaborating on the commercial testing of new flower species to diversify Uganda’s flower exports beyond traditional rose bouquets. Collaborative efforts also include identifying native natural enemies to control Chrysanthemum pests, working with UFEA, Wageningen University, breeders, and the National Agricultural Research Organization.

As part of Uganda’s National Agricultural Research System (NARS), MUARIK prioritizes research in biotechnology, tissue culture, plant breeding, improved farming methods, agro-processing, value addition, and marketing.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi delivering his remarks. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi delivering his remarks.

Tour to Assess the Capacity and Condition of Facilities at MUARIK 

 As part of the commissioning ceremony, the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, led visitors on a comprehensive tour of the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute, Kabanyolo (MUARIK). The purpose of the tour was to provide first-hand insight into the institute’s current infrastructure, operational capacity, and ongoing challenges.

During the visit, Prof. Nabanoga highlighted both the strengths and limitations of the institute. While the tour showcased MUARIK’s potential as a hub for agricultural research and innovation, it also brought to light a number of critical issues affecting its functionality. Chief among these is the persistent challenge of land encroachment, which continues to threaten the integrity and sustainability of the institute’s operations.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi appreciating some of the students who did the refurbishment. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi appreciating some of the students who did the refurbishment.

In her remarks, Prof. Nabanoga commended Dr. Cyrus Ongom, the outgoing Director of MUARIK, for his unwavering dedication to safeguarding the institution’s land. She acknowledged his resolute efforts in the face of persistent threats and numerous challenges, emphasizing the vital role he played in preserving MUARIK’s integrity. “This year, we aim to further reposition MUARIK as a leading centre for agricultural innovation and production in the region,”said Prof. Nabanoga. “Our focus will be on strengthening research, fostering partnerships with stakeholders, and enhancing the capacity of our infrastructure to support sustainable and impactful agricultural practices.”

The Principal expressed gratitude to all who have supported the transformation journey of CAES. “As we celebrate our achievements today, we take this moment to recognize and honour everyone who has been part of our transformation journey,” the Principal said. “We are especially grateful to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe for his unwavering support, which has been instrumental in driving the College forward.”

The Principal of CAES expressed gratitude to all who have supported the transformation journey of the College. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
The Principal of CAES expressed gratitude to all who have supported the transformation journey of the College.

Delivering his remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, commended the CAES for its remarkable achievements in training and research.

“From my assessment, CAES has consistently excelled across its core mandates – training, research, production, and community outreach. The College has played a crucial role in advancing the agricultural sector through innovative research, high-quality academic programmes, and meaningful community engagement. These efforts have made a significant contribution to Uganda’s national development goals and the transformation of its agricultural landscape. Given its demonstrated success and strategic relevance, CAES is highly deserving of enhanced investment and funding to further expand its impact,” he stated.

Some of the CAES staff at the Annual College Awards and Recognition ceremony held on the same day at MUARIK. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the CAES staff at the Annual College Awards and Recognition ceremony held on the same day at MUARIK.

CAES Annual Awards and Staff Recognition Ceremony

The CAES Annual Awards and Staff Recognition Ceremony celebrated the outstanding achievements of dedicated teaching, administrative, and support staff. During this special event, several members of staff were acknowledged and honoured for their exceptional performance, commitment, and contributions to the College’s success.

Commenting on the significance of the awards, Prof. Buyinza praised the initiative, emphasizing that such recognition serves as a powerful motivator. He highlighted how acknowledging excellence not only boosts morale but also inspires continued dedication and fosters a culture of high performance.

Members of staff recognized for their exceptional performance. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
Members of staff recognized for their exceptional performance.

Click on the link below to access the list of staff recognized for exceptional performance.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GyG0EMYTztaX1-6I5IS6dmJDxRYdHyeU/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=115148742368110346662&rtpof=true&sd=true

More pictures from the event

Members of staff recognized for their exceptional performance. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.

Members of staff recognized for their exceptional performance. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.

CAES staff led by the DVCAA and the Principal cutting cake in celebration of the achievements. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
CAES staff led by the DVCAA and the Principal cutting cake in celebration of the achievements.

CAES staff led by the DVCAA and the Principal serve the meal. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.

CAES staff together with the Principal and the DVCAA and DVCFA after touring the facilities at MUARIK. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
CAES staff together with the Principal and the DVCAA and DVCFA after touring the facilities at MUARIK.

Hasifa Kabejja

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Agriculture & Environment

CAES Annual Report 2024

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Cover page of the CAES Annual Report 2024. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga

It is with profound pride, reflection, and vision that I present the 2024 Annual Report for the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at Makerere University. This report is more than a summary of the milestones in 2024 – it is a powerful testament to what is possible when a dedicated academic community rallies behind a common purpose. It encapsulates the collective effort, ingenuity, and resilience of our faculty, researchers, administrators, technical teams, students, alumni, and partners – each of whom has contributed meaningfully to advancing our threefold mandate: Teaching and Learning, Research and Innovation, and Knowledge and Technology Transfer Partnerships.

Throughout 2024, we deepened our resolve to nurture not only competent graduates, but also purpose-driven leaders capable of shaping the future of agriculture, environmental stewardship, and food systems across Uganda, Africa, and beyond. Through transformative curricula, cutting-edge facilities, and a strong commitment to STEM-based experiential learning, CAES continues to empower a new generation of innovators – technically sound, ethically grounded, and globally aware.  

Our academic programs continued to evolve in both quality and relevance. We offered 48 academic programs—including 15 undergraduate, 19 masters, 11 PhD, and 3 postgraduate diploma programs. A total of 2,339 students were enrolled in 2024, with 60% of undergraduate learning delivered through hands-on, field-based instruction. At the 74th graduation ceremony, 638 students graduated, including 20 PhDs, 104 masters, and 511 bachelor’s degree recipients. Notably, we celebrated 25 first-class graduates who represent academic excellence across disciplines.

Through over 100 partnerships, we translated knowledge into impact. Initiatives like CURAD, FTBIC, and MaRCCI empowered communities in agribusiness, food safety, and climate resilience.

I thank our entire community for your commitment and collaboration. Together, we are not only advancing knowledge but shaping sustainable futures across Uganda and beyond.

Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga
Principal, CAES

Follow the link below to access the full report;

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nNsX8Cohq7whbC9zkd3j4DpBRa7kygDP/view

Hasifa Kabejja

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Agriculture & Environment

Climate Resilience and Sustainability Collaborative: 30 Masters, 6 PhD Scholarships 2025/2026

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Some of the 19 PhD graduates from CAES at the 75th graduation ceremony. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. 17th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University is pleased to announce 30 Masters’ and 6 PhD Scholarships for students joining Makerere University (Main Campus) for Academic Year 2025/2026. An applicant must belong to one of the following categories: Persons with Disabilities, Internally Displaced young people, Refugees, other Ugandan National with financial constraints, and, youth from other African countries.

ELIGIBILITY

For Master’s Applicants

  1. The applicant must have applied for admission to Makerere University‘s main campus for the academic year 2025/2026.
  2. The Applicant must have completed their undergraduate education in an African country.
  3. The Applicant should be experiencing financial hardships to pursue higher Education.
  4. The Applicant should not be a holder of any other scholarship.
  5. The Applicant should not be pursuing or have completed any Master’s degree studies.
  6. The applicant should have engaged in leadership responsibilities and/ or community service.
  7. The Applicant should not be over 30 years at the application deadline.
  8. Applicants in the Refugee and Students with Disabilities categories should be under 40 years at the application deadline.
  9. A refugee applicant MUST hold a Refugee Identity card or Family Attestation.
  10. The applicant should have applied for any of these degree programs MSc. in Soil Science and Agrology, MSc. in Crop Science, MSc. in Environment and Natural Resources Management, M.A. in Economic Policy and Planning, MSc. in Agricultural Engineering.
  11. The Applicant should have an interest in research, innovation and entrepreneurship in climate resilience and sustainability, and committed to complete the degree in 2 years.

For PhD Applicants

  1. The applicant must have applied for admission to Makerere University‘s main campus for the academic year 2025/2026.
  2. The applicant must have completed their undergraduate education in an African country.
  3. The applicant should be experiencing financial hardships to pursue higher Education.
  4. The applicant should not be a holder of any other scholarship.
  5. The applicant should not be pursuing or have completed any PhD degree studies.
  6. The applicant should have engaged in leadership responsibilities and/ or community service.
  7. The applicant should not be over 35 years at the application deadline.
  8. The applicants in the Refugee and Students with Disabilities categories should be under 45 years at the application deadline.
  9. A refugee applicant MUST hold a Refugee Identity card or Family Attestation.
  10. The applicant should have an interest in research, innovation and entrepreneurship in climate resilience and sustainability, and committed to complete the degree in time.
  11. The prioritised research themes are indicated in the application form.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Friday, 6 June 2025 at 11:59 PM EAT.

Access and complete the Application Form at NO COST through the online application portal https://apply.caes.mak.ac.ug/

MORE INFORMATION:

Tel: +256-744-773-237
Email: climateresilience@mak.ac.ug

Mak Editor

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