Humanities & Social Sciences
72nd Graduation: Doctoral Citations – CHUSS
Published
3 years agoon
AMPAIRE Anne
Career Stereotypes and Aspiration as Predictors of Students’ Independence in Career Choice at Education Transitional Levels in Uganda
Ms. AMPAIRE Anne examined the extent to which career stereotypes and aspirations predict students’ career choice at education transitional levels in Uganda. This was motivated by the continued challenges that impact on students’ independence in career choice and the extent to which career decisions are based on the available facts. This has led to students taking up careers that are not in line with their interests, value system, and skills, thereby compromising the outcome expectations. Overall, the results revealed that reliance on personal independence and career choice facts, is decreased by the prevailing career stereotypes, across the education transitional levels. This has resulted into an increase in the number of students who pursue careers that are inconsistent with their career aspirations and interests, and there is need for measures aimed at addressing those prevailing career stereotypes. The study was co-funded by myself and Makerere University and was supervised by Dr. Mayanja Kajumba and Prof. Anthony M. Mugagga.
ANTWIWAA Stella
The Representation of Women in Selected Plays of Euripides and Selected Ghanaian Playwrights
Ms. ANTWIWAA Stella employed feminist and postcolonial theories to interrogate the representation of women in selected classical Euripidean plays and selected Ghanaian playwrights to examine the ‘universalist’ view that the Classics are models for others to learn from. The research questions the hegemonic elevation of the Classical/Western values to examine African experiences. The study reveals that in terms of gender representations, the Classical Greek, through Euripides’ writings, does not provide examples for the Akan (Ghanaian/African) societies. The study recommends that African scholars need to adopt Afrocentric epistemology to examine African experiences in order to shift and balance the centres of knowledge production and circulation. Africa’s classics in history, art, myths, folktales and indigenous knowledge need to be foregrounded in scholarship to address the pedestal placement of the Western Classics as a yardstick to evaluate African artefacts. Granted the Classics continue to be valuable, scholars need to interrogate them when applied to different cultural experiences. This critical and comparative study challenges the ideology of the superiority of Western Classics over other cultures. This study was funded by Gerda Henkel Stiftung Foundation, and supervised by Prof. Dominica Dipio and Dr Danson Kahyana.
ARINAITWE Perpetua
Kiswahili at Crossroads: Cultural Politics and Language Policy in Uganda.
Ms. ARINAITWE Perpetua studied historical narratives of different language policies and factors that impacted Kiswahili growth across the different historical periods; the pre-colonial period (1840-1894); the colonial period (1894-1962); and the post-colonial period (1962-2019). A blend of three approaches to language policy and planning (LPP); the Historical-structural model, the Neo-classical Model and Language Management Theory (LMT). A narrative technique enabled the collection of both qualitative and quantitative data. Findings revealed that Kiswahili growth has been dependent on numerous language policies stretching from the pre, during and post-colonial epochs. Constant shift in cultural and political leadership meant that whoever held power determined the language policies that favoured their leadership ideology. The study was funded by the GERDA HENKEL STIFFTUNG and was supervised by Dr Saudah Namyalo and Dr Gumoshabe Gilbert.
ASIIMWE Stedia
Female survivors’ Experiences of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and access to justice in Uganda
Ms. ASIIMWE Stedia investigated female survivors’ experiences of intimate partner violence (IPV) and access to justice in Uganda, with a focus on relationships involving male police officers. The study was carried out in Jinja police barracks in Eastern Uganda. Methodologically, qualitative approach was employed, using case study design. Findings indicate that female survivors of IPV experienced physical, sexual, economic and psychological violence. Factors that triggered IPV against women in police families included: shared accommodation, poorly managed transfers and daily deployments, alcoholism, low salaries, refusing women to work outside the barracks and work related stress. Access to justice by female survivors of IPV was constrained by alien referral pathways to justice, abusers’ possession of a weapon, long procedures, laxity by authority to punish fellow officers, sexual harassment, women’s lack of information about their rights and Government’s failure to decentralize some services. The study argues that the arm of the law is too short to reach civilian female survivors of IPV, because the abusers are at the same time the vehicles through which justice is supposed to be delivered. The study recommends that police management should construct more houses for officers, include a module on Gender based violence in police training syllabus and use mult-professional teams to handle IPV cases. The study was funded by Makerere-Sweden Bilateral Research Program, and was supervised by Dr. Victoria Flavia Namuggala and Dr. Ruth Nsibirano.
ATWAGALA Donnah
A Comparative Analysis of Land ownership and Land conflicts in post-conflict areas of Luwero and Amuru Districts, Uganda: A Gender Perspective
Ms. ATWAGALA Donnah analysed the effects of landownership and land conflicts on gender perspectives in post-conflict areas of Luwero and Amuru Districts in Uganda. The findings show that the nature and causes of land conflicts have evolved, transforming from being local to becoming international. Actors and conflicts have become more sophisticated and complex to identify and analyse, respectively. The study recommends adopting the right-based, gender and conflict-sensitive land acquisition, ownership and management framework that will ensure equitable land acquisition, access and use by all stakeholders. This study was supervised by Dr. Paddy Musana and Assoc. Prof. Consolata Kabonesa.
BALIKOOWA Richard
A Sociocultural Exploration of Children’s Experiences and Perspectives on Gender-based Violence in Primary Schools in Busoga Sub-region, Uganda
Mr. BALIKOOWA Richard explored the experiences and perspectives of primary school children regarding gender-based violence in and around schools and its impact on their schooling; in Uganda’s Busoga sub-region. Using a sociocultural approach, Balikoowa adopted a multimethod design through which he involved 450 male and female school children from 10 to 14 years in participatory visual activities; including draw-and-talk, child-friendly focus group conversations, in-depth interviews; as well as the eclectic administration of a survey tool. Children acknowledged experiencing and/or witnessing gender-based violence in and around their schools. They also disclosed that gender-biased factors associated with school setup and gender-based violence immensely negatively affected their motivation to engage in school activities. However, children’s greatest nervousness and related impact on their schooling was attributed to the unresponsiveness and unempathetic attitude by those around them. The study recommended that stakeholders in children’s schooling should allow them reveal their challenges and also pay concerted attention to them as key participants in their development and schooling. The study was funded by the Andrew W. Mellon and was supervised by Assoc. Prof. Julius Fred Kikooma and Dr. David Onen.
FEDEO Ignas
Myth and Mythmaking in the Narratives about Mwalimu Julius Nyerere among the Banyakyusa
Mr. FEDEO Ignas studied the recreation of Nyerere’s personal life and political career in Banyakyusa myths. The study offers an alternative understanding of Nyerere’s life and history as perceived by local people. Using oral history interviews and content analysis, Banyakyusa myths which carry their culture, voices, beliefs, and perceptions of Nyerere were recorded. The myths were interpreted based on Banyakyusa traditional beliefs and their life experiences. The findings revealed that Banyakyusa believe that Nyerere was endowed with immerse supernatural and mystical powers which helped him to implement his presidential duties successfully and protect himself and the Tanzanian people. The study established the Banyakyusa belief that Nyerere’s mystical powers greatly account for the prominence of his ideas and the reverence accorded to him in Tanzania, Africa and the world at large. The study will promote preservation of Banyakyusa and other Africans oral materials especially myths which carry beliefs and perceptions of local people. This study was funded by Gerda-Henkel Stiftung Foundation and supervised by Prof Abasi Kiyimba and Dr. Benge Okot.
KATURAMU Alex
Land, social Change and the lives of nomadic pastoralists in Western Uganda since 1950
Mr. KATURAMU Alex examined the historical proliferation of nomadic pastoralists focusing on the issues of land and social change since 1950. In the results, seasonal movements culminated into land conflicts among pastoralists and farmers. The land conflicts were exacerbated by intensity of population in the cattle corridor. The study shows that pastoralists remain one of the secors that significantly contribute to Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product, hence deserving resource investiments to improve the livelihoods of herders. This study was supervised by Dr. Simon Peter Rutabajuuka and Dr. Charlottee Karungu Mafumbo.
KIGEMBE Elmerek
Challenges of Strategic Plan Implementation in the North Western Diocese: Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania
Rev. KIGEMBE Elmereck investigated the challenges that limited strategic plan implementation in the North Western Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran church in Tanzania. The study identified Improper resource allocation, limited knowledge of implementers, un-conducive working conditions, lack of clear targets and changes in Government policies as negative actors in strategic plan implementation. For the church to effectively implement its strategic plan objectives so as to deliver God’s Mission, the study recommended strategic mobilization, monitoring and allocation of resources; integration of training in the strategic plan implementation processes; enhancement of working conditions; integration of clear targets in action plans and regular review of strategic plan instruments to accommodate changes in the government policy. The study was funded by the United Evangelical Mission (UEM) and supervised by Dr. Patrick Mangeni and Dr. Veneranda Mbabazi.
KIRIGGWAJJO Anatole
The Tonology of Lunyala Nouns, Noun Phrases and Verbs
Mr. KIRIGGWAJJO Anatole investigated the tonology of Lunyala one of Uganda’s minority languages mainly spoken in the district of Kayunga. He argues that although the tone system of Bantu languages has attracted a lot of attention in the last decade, minority languages have been neglected making such languages endangered. His study found out that Lunyala has a privative tone system with the High tone marked underlying while both the underlying and surface tones are borne by moras in a one-to-one correspondence. Further the tone distribution over the moras is determined by tonal processes for example; High and Low tone spreading, Obligatory contour Principle and Tonal polarity among others. He underscores the usefulness of the study in compiling Lunyala online-talking dictionaries and developing teaching and learning materials in Lunyala. This study was funded by Volkswagen Foundation and was supervised by Dr. Saudah Namyalo.
IMOKOLA John Baptist
Television Programming Regulation: Examining the Policy Implementation of Local Content Quotas in Uganda
Mr. IMOKOLA John Baptist examined the implementation of television local content quotas policy in Uganda. Five years after television local content quotas were implemented in 2014, no known comprehensive assessment had been done on uptake by television stations, and how the is understood by the different stakeholders. The study analyzed the perspectives of different stakeholders, opportunities from the local content quotas and the challenges affecting implementation. Using key informant interviews, focus group discussions and document analysis, the study found that Uganda Communications Commission, the television stations, the local content producers and the audience had reacted differently towards the policy. Implementation has seen increased production, acquisition, adaptation and airing of Ugandan content for television. Although there are opportunities created by the policy, achievement of these are bedeviled structural, conceptual, economic and political challenges affecting effective implementation. The study proposed a new definition of local content, and recommends a consultative process in the formulation and implementation of broadcast policies. This study was funded by Andrew Mellon CHUSS Fellowship and supervised by Prof. Goretti Linda Nassanga and Dr. Brian Semujju.
KYOMUHENDO Marjorie Niyitegeka
Family Planning Communication in Uganda: An Interrogation of Media Reporting, Communication Campaigns and Audience Perspectives
Ms. KYOMUHENDO Marjorie Niyitegeka’s study was motivated by the constant high awareness and low use of contraceptives by most women and men of reproductive age in Uganda. She thus examined the framing of family planning information in selected media stories and health communication campaigns. She also explored how audience members targeted by the campaigns interpreted family planning information. Her study found deficiencies in family planning communication occasioned by shallow media reporting and information transmission approaches that disregarded the audience’s information needs and contextual factors. She recommends that the Ministry of Health and partners implement a harmonised communication strategy that is audience-centred and responsive to the emerging information needs and socio-ecological contexts of particular audience segments. She further urges Uganda’s media to practise more enterprise and interpretive journalism in reporting family planning to amplify its significance to the public. The study was co-funded by CARTA and Makerere University, and was supervised by Prof.Goretti L. Nassanga and Prof. Anne R. Katahoire.
LUGWIRI Okombo Patrick
A citizen Sociolinguistics Appraisal of Kiswahili as a Tool for Social Integration in the East African Community
Mr. LUGWIRI Okombo Patrick employed the Citizen Sociolinguistics model to explore language-based decisions about Kiswahili among ordinary citizens in the East African Community, specifically, in Busia and Namanga border towns. Lugwiri’s study was motivated by Article 137(2) of the EAC Treaty (1999) which provides for the promotion of Kiswahili as a lingua franca of the Community. Using ethnographic methods, the study examined the patterns and extent of the use of Kiswahili, the nature of Kiswahili used, and citizens perceptions and attitudes to Kiswahili. The study found that Kiswahili is construed, constructed and appropriated differently by different citizens in different domains and spaces, and therefore, a highly varied language. While Kiswahili has the potential of a common language of communication and a tool for social integration in the EAC, issues of varieties and labels, contact and conflict between varieties, status and prestige, perceptions and attitudes, national and social identity, and linguistic power struggles impact negatively on this potential. The study recommended a shift in approach to Kiswahili in the EAC from the ‘top-down’ policies to ‘bottom-up’ or practice-based policies that take into account participation of ordinary citizens as makers and shapers of language policies. The study was funded by Gerda Henkel Fellowship and supervised by Dr Merit Kabugo and Dr Florence Bayiga.
MUDONDO Constance
Land Conflicts and Livelihoods of People Utilising Namatala Wetland in Eastern Uganda
Ms. MUDONDO Constance examined how land conflicts shape livelihoods of people. Using Namatala Wetland in Eastern Uganda as a case, she examined the conflict dimensions and drivers, land use, and conflict management mechanisms. She found that increasing demand for moist farm land shape conflict dimensions leading to cleavage formation based on class, ethnicity, and location. The emergent quests for territorial control and inequality result in violence, which hinders optimal use of land and diminishes wetland users’ capitals. Although formal conflict management strategies have been tried, they were largely protectionist and divisive, reinforcing feelings of relative deprivation and latent hostilities. Consequently, the wetland users have resorted to informal coping mechanisms like social-networks that act as collective labour, financial safety valves and buffers against attacks. She argues that alleviating the effects of land conflicts requires shifting from structural models to locally bred conflict management systems. The study was funded by SIDA and supervised by Dr. Robert Kabumbuli and Dr. Dauda Waiswa Batega.
MUGENYI Jonathan
Singing Politics: Popular Music, Popular Politics and Contingencies of Protest in NRM’s Uganda
Mr. MUGENYI Jonathan examined the deployment of musical expression in the practice of state politics under Uganda’s National Resistance Movement. On the one hand, he investigated the direct and implied ways by which the NRM deploys musical expression as a tool of political mobilisation and legitimization while on the other hand, he examined ways by which the Ugandan society uses musical expression to create alternatives ways of engaging with NRM politics. Expanding the Foucauldian theory of power, Mugenyi argues that musical expression is a conduit of state power that percolates into society and it is the same conduit that returns to the state to challenge its power as contingencies of protest. This study was funded under Makerere Institute of Social Research’s Interdisciplinary MPhil/PhD and was supervised by Prof. Mahmood Mamdani.
MWANIKA Kassim
Commercial Sugarcane Farming and Rural Youth Livelihoods in Eastern Uganda
Mr. MWANIKA Kassim examined the implications of commercial farming on a vulnerable population. Focusing on sugarcane farming and youth livelihoods in Eastern Uganda, he found that sugarcane farming has a suboptimal impact on youth livelihoods in Busoga sub-region. Due to limited requisite resources, the youth constitute the bulk of sugarcane labour force and their benefits from the industry are limited to wage earnings. He argues that commercial sugarcane farming is an enclave for wealthy groups, and that youth are incorporated into circuits of capital accumulation where they are exploited by employers. The process is exacerbated by lack of labour regulations and sugarcane price volatility, which undermine the trickle-down effect of sugarcane farming on youth livelihoods. Enhancing outcomes from sugarcane farming requires addressing structural traps embedded in capitalist large-scale farming. The study was funded by SIDA and supervised by Assoc. Prof. Andrew Ellias State, Prof. Atekyereza Peter and Assoc. Prof. Torun Österberg.
NAKABO Seruga Robinah
Followership and Women’s Empowerment for Sustainable Development: A Case of the Women in the National Association of Women’s Organisations in Uganda
Ms. NAKABO Seruga Robinah investigated followership and women’s empowerment for sustainable development, taking the case of the women in NAWOU. After in-depth interviews, findings showed that followership was generally a taken for granted concept. Respondents perceived followership as a cooperative venture, retrospection on past experiences, as a detour, seeking to stabilise or destabilise the status quo, identifying preferred values, and mentorship. Most voices reiterated that generally, many women exhibited perpetual and unconscious followership tendencies even when other alternatives were available; with fear as the main causal condition. However, women’s followership of NAWOU was found to be pragmatic and conscious with the implication of possible empowerment; intervened by education, family ties, and financial situations. The conclusion was, depending on personal characteristics, perception of empowerment and the typology of followership adopted, women could gain empowerment for sustainable development. The recommendation is that NAWOU, the government, academic institutions, and similar organizations reconsider the concept of followership and its implications on empowerment. The study was supervised by Assoc Prof. Godfrey Assimwe, and Dr. Robert S. Esiruku
NAKALYOWA Deborah
Intimate Partner Violence and Masculinities: Experiences of Baganda male “survivors” in Masaka District, Uganda
Ms. NAKALYOWA Deborah examined, through a qualitative methodology, the lived experiences of men who were subjected to Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) by their female intimate partners in heterosexual relationships, including forms/types in which the IPV manifested, and how it affected the masculine identities of the male victims. Findings revealed that they were subjected to psychological/emotional violence, in addition to physical aggression and sexual abuse in the contexts of Intimate Terrorism, Situational Couple Violence and Mutual Violent Control. While the importance of maintaining an appropriate sense of masculinity underpinned their narratives, the male victims described feeling shame and embarrassment for not having met the dominant cultural expectations surrounding masculinity, consequently affecting their emotional and physical well-being. However, the majority of men were hesitant to seek help after victimization, for fear of ridicule, emasculation and being cast as the perpetrators. Therefore, there is need for more research and advocacy to enhance recognition and public awareness about the plight of male victims, review of laws/policies aimed at combating IPV in intimate relationships to be more gender-inclusive, as well as establish victim service support sources for all IPV victims, regardless of gender. The study was funded by SIDA and supervised by Dr. Evelyn Lutwama-Rukundo and Assoc. Prof. Consolata Kabonesa
NANSAMBA Joyce
Why They Stay: A socio-cultural Reconstruction of Academics’ Retention in Uganda’s Public Universities.
Ms. NANSAMBA Joyce explains why Academics stay working in Uganda’s Public Universities despite unappealing working conditions. Recognizing that staff retention is not exclusively about institutional frameworks and individually situated explanations, the study underscores the role of historical, social and cultural contexts in explaining retention. A narrative analysis of the academics’ stories revealed that the meaning academics attach to their professional identity, the social relations from engaged scholarship and the otherness from external prestige explain their retention. The study was a departure from conventional thinking that attractive pay and benefits, satisfactory terms of service, good working conditions among others explain retention. It was a novel step to studying retention as a social construction from the perspective of Academics’ own experiences. The study was funded by Makerere University and supervised by Assoc Prof. Julius Kikooma and Assoc Prof. Umar Kakumba.
NIRINGIYIMANA Julius
Oil Politics and Land Conflicts in the Albertine Region, Uganda
Mr. NIRINGIYIMANA Julius investigated how oil politics was influencing the changing nature of land conflicts in the Albertine region of Uganda. The study discovered that though the Ugandan government had been engaging in protracted negotiations with multinational oil corporations in an effort to protect the national interests, the process instead got plagued by land conflicts and dispossession of citizens from their land. It established that the interests of the actors conflicted and led to the politicization of oil governance. Consequently, the government was made to adjust its position to accommodate the interests of multinational oil corporations while other opportunistic interests, such as land speculators also took advantage. These actions made the affected persons to lose their land rights which invoked and intensified land conflicts in form of Polanyi’s ‘countermovement’ and adversely affected people’s livelihoods. The study concluded that where neoliberal capitalism interfaces with an oil-producing developing country, citizens face dispossession of land and other rights, and where there are pre-existing land conflicts, the politicisation of oil intensifies them and produces new ones. The study recommends that the Ugandan state should re-assert its interests and obligations to protect people’s land rights and make multinational oil corporations to adhere to internationally established benchmarks such as fair compensation. This study was funded by SIDA and supervised by Prof Muhumuza William and Prof Murindwa Rutanga.
TUNANUKYE Nicholas
A History of Migrancy, Nativism, and Citizenship in Uganda, 1894-1995: A case of South and Western Uganda
Mr. TUNANUKYE Nicholas examined the relationship between migrations, identity formations and citizenship in Uganda, 1894-1995 using migration experiences of Bakiga and Banyankole into Buganda, and Bakiga into Bunyoro. Using historical research methods which included analysis of documents, oral narratives and archival sources, the study established that, whereas migration had taken place in the region of pre-Uganda, colonial rule encouraged unprecedented internal migration in Uganda. The new socio-economic order brought about by the colonial state opened the way for free movement in the protectorate across ethnic boundaries. There were two main reasons for this accelerated migration: migrant labour and search for land. The migration of Banyankole and Bakiga from southwestern region of Uganda to Buganda in the 1930s, 1940s into 1960s was largely in response to the former, while the migration of the Bakiga into Bunyoro and Toro regions during the 1950s and 1960s was in response to latter. The study also established that there were complex interactions between the migrating and receiving communities. One major complexity lay in the attitude of nativism, expressed in subtle ways. Nativism gave rise to two kinds of citizenship consciousness: the Local Citizenship bestowed by membership to an ancestral community inhabiting a particular region and National Citizenship bestowed by the statutes of the Ugandan state. The study was funded by The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and was supervised by Dr. Simon Peter Rutabajuuka and Dr. Deo Nzarwa Katono.
WAMAMELA Nixon
A critique of Constitutional making and amendment in Uganda with Reference to the 1967 &1995 Constitution
Mr. WAMAMELA Nixon conducted an ethical critique of constitutional making and amendment in Uganda with specific reference to the 1967 and 1995 constitutions. The study established that the constitutional processes were seemingly legitimate, yet, self-interest tendencies overrode common interest, hence, the resultant controversies such as lack of consensus among members of parliament, questionable declaration of state of emergency, controversial consultations, resultant scuffles and violent scenes in parliament. It was also established that ideals of constitutional democracy and legislative ethics were lacking. To mitigate the above challenges, an ethical framework for constitutional making and amendment processes should be put into account. Such a framework should include referenda, benchmarking and a national consensus on ethical principles, declaration of conflict of interest by the incumbents and other possible beneficiaries. These are possible through creation of ethics review committee within parliament. The study was funded by Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and supervised by Prof. Archangel Rukooko Byaruhanga and Dr. Paul Matthias Shimiyu.
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Humanities & Social Sciences
Mak Reviews Bachelor of Chinese and Asian Studies Program to Address Key Gaps
Published
5 days agoon
December 16, 2024By
Jane AnyangoThe School of Languages, Literature, and Communication at Makerere University held a stakeholders’ workshop to review the Bachelor of Chinese and Asian Studies (BICAS) program. The workshop, held on 5th December, 2024 aimed at refining the curriculum to meet the evolving academic and professional needs of students and employers.
The Dean of the School, Associate Professor Saudah Namyalo emphasized the significance of engaging stakeholders in the curriculum review process. She noted that feedback from students, employers, and academia is crucial for identifying gaps and improving the program.
“It’s a very important stage in our curriculum review to ensure that we have stakeholders’ workshops. This is an opportunity to hear from potential employers, students, and academic experts. Today, for example, we’ve learned that many of our graduates are not fully grounded in the science of the language, and because of that feedback, we are going to improve on it,” she said.
The Dean highlighted gaps in the current curriculum, such as limited focus on linguistic aspects like syntax, morphology, phonology, and semantics, which are essential for students pursuing advanced degrees. Additionally, the cultural component of Chinese language education was found to be inadequate.
“There’s no way you can teach a language detached from its culture. We are going to introduce courses emphasizing the culture of the Chinese so that the two go hand in hand,” she added.
The review aims to address these gaps by incorporating courses that build linguistic competence and cultural understanding. The program will now cater to both beginners and advanced learners, allowing graduates to pursue academic careers, including master’s and PhD programs, in Chinese linguistics. It will also strengthen the Asian Studies strand, enabling students to specialize in either Chinese language or broader Asian studies.
Dr. Enock Sebuyungo: Aligning Uganda’s Needs with Global Opportunities
Dr. Enock Sebuyungo, Head of the Department of European and Oriental Languages, underlined the growing importance of Chinese proficiency in Uganda. He noted that China’s rise as a global economic superpower has strengthened ties with Uganda in trade, education, and infrastructure development.
“Chinese companies dominate Uganda’s major infrastructure projects, and increasing numbers of Ugandans engage in trade and studies in China. Proficiency in Chinese offers competitive advantages for accessing the Chinese market,” he said.
Despite this, students under previous programs faced challenges achieving desired proficiency levels in international tests like HSK3. Employers expressed dissatisfaction with graduates’ language skills, and scholarships for study in China remained underutilized. The proposed BICAS program aims to bridge these gaps by producing graduates proficient in Chinese, knowledgeable about Asia’s economic and geopolitical landscape, and skilled in business, tourism, and diplomacy.
The BICAS program aligns with Makerere University’s expertise in foreign language instruction and supports Uganda’s strategic need to engage with Asia’s rapid development. It is expected to attract students from Uganda and East Africa, where Chinese is currently offered only as a short course. The program projects an annual revenue increase of UGX 865 million from an estimated 200 enrolled students. Partnerships with Chinese companies will provide scholarships for 10-15 students per intake, ensuring financial sustainability and accessibility.
Uganda joins a growing list of countries incorporating Chinese studies into higher education, with similar programs established in Botswana, Australia, and the United States. Makerere University, which already trains secondary school Chinese teachers, is poised to create a critical mass of experts to sustain Chinese language education and strengthen Uganda-China bilateral relations.
Dr. Sebuyungo expressed gratitude to Associate Professor Helen Nkabala, Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), for her moral and financial support in organizing the workshop. He also thanked the Confucius Institute and Xiangtan University for their invaluable contributions to the program.
“Confucius Institute and Xiangtan University sent us professors who reviewed this course. What we are looking at is a revised course done by professors from Xiangtan University, and we deeply appreciate their support,” he said.
The Bachelor of Chinese and Asian Studies program positions Makerere University as a regional leader in language and cultural studies. It prepares graduates to address gaps in trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange while enhancing Uganda’s ability to benefit from China’s global influence. The workshop marked a pivotal step in ensuring the program aligns with both local and international demands.
Humanities & Social Sciences
Inaugural CHUSS Non-Academic Staff Retreat Highlights Customer Care, Quality Services and Professionalism to Improve University Image
Published
1 week agoon
December 13, 2024By
Jane AnyangoThe College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) at Makerere University held its first-ever non-academic staff retreat on December 7-8, 2024, at the Grand Global Hotel in Kikoni, a Kampala suburb. The retreat focused on customer care, quality assurance, professional work ethics, and human resource management. This landmark event, organized under the guidance of CHUSS Principal Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, was aimed at fostering teamwork, reflecting on work practices, and strategizing ways to enhance service delivery and the university’s overall image.
The retreat brought together administrative and support staff to build networks, improve working environments, and align individual efforts with the university’s strategic goals. “We are here to learn, dialogue, and strategize together to improve our services in line with the university’s strategic direction. It starts with us,” said Prof. Nkabala in her opening remarks. She emphasized the collective responsibility of staff in achieving Makerere University’s vision.
Prof. Nkabala also highlighted challenges such as inadequate staffing, particularly among security personnel and custodians, and called for the Human Resources Directorate to reconsider housing policies to support this vital group of workers.
In addition to formal sessions, the retreat featured interactive dialogues between staff and management, work place role plays, team-building exercises, and fitness training. A fireplace dinner provided a relaxed setting for staff to share concerns and suggestions. Activities like these rejuvenate the spirit and promote a sense of belonging.
Key Presentations and Insights
The retreat featured presentations from Makerere’s Director of Human Resources, Deus Tayari Mujuni; Chair of the CHUSS Quality Assurance Committee, Prof. Sylvia Nanyonga Tamusuza; Dr. Dickson Kanakulya, Head of the Department of Philosophy; and Dr. Gilbert Gumoshabe, Head of the Department of African Languages.
Love Your Work and Serve Clients Diligently- Dr. Gilbert Gumoshabe
Dr. Gilbert Gumoshabe, the Head of the Department of African Languages, presented on the importance of customer care in the workplace, focusing on how staff should attend to clients, particularly students, and the behavior expected of them while on the job. He began by emphasizing the importance of loving one’s work, regardless of the role. “Love your work. You applied for it. If you’re a secretary, PR, cleaner, or messenger, love your job. There is nothing more rewarding than people trusting you. Do your work with a smile,” he advised.
Dr. Gumoshabe discussed several key aspects of professional conduct, beginning with the importance of time management and serving clients diligently. He also highlighted the need for staff to leave personal beliefs, especially those related to witchcraft, outside the workplace. “Leave your beliefs like witchcraft behind the office. Witchcraft is real, and it moves in families. If you’re bewitching, what will happen when you’re bewitched? Always do to others what should be done to you. Avoid being jealous of those who do their work. If you focus on doing your job well, you won’t be chased, but if you indulge in witchcraft, you will be deceived. Sometimes you condemn yourself and slander others,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of professionalism in the workplace. Dr. Gumoshabe lectured staff on maintaining confidentiality, being polite in communication, greeting people with respect, and handling personal problems privately. He emphasized the need for staff to be friendly, responsible, and cooperative with colleagues and their leaders. Furthermore, he advised staff on maintaining personal hygiene and cultivating good habits. “Dress appropriately and be mindful of your shopping. Look for what fits you. No matter how much you want to attract love, your dressing matters. Avoid talking negatively about your supervisors, as all information that goes around comes around. There is no perfect person, and administrators want results,” Dr. Gumoshabe concluded.
Upholding Quality Standards: There must be a change in the image of our college and university- Prof. Tamusuza
Professor Sylvia Antonia Nanyonga Nakimera Tamusuza, the Chair of the CHUSS Quality Assurance Committee, addressed staff on the essential role of quality assurance in enhancing service delivery and improving the university’s reputation. She emphasized that quality begins with personal responsibility, encouraging staff to reflect on their work environments and professional conduct. “Quality is about doing things the best way and ensuring they meet the required standards,” she remarked, highlighting that teamwork, cleanliness, and attention to detail are vital components in maintaining high standards.
Professor Tamusuza warned against complacency and urged staff to embrace continuous improvement. She explained that quality assurance not only leads to better services and a more conducive working environment but also reduces complaints. “When there is quality, we will always smile when things are done well,” she said. She added that quality assurance contributes significantly to the university’s reputation, resulting in happier students and staff, and fostering a sense of pride within the university community.
To further elaborate, Professor Tamusuza highlighted the principles of quality assurance. She emphasized the importance of doing the right things consistently, checking work to ensure it aligns with assigned tasks, correcting mistakes, being efficient, managing time effectively, and promoting clear communication and teamwork. “We cannot change what we do unless we improve the quality of what we do. Let us think about efficiency and time management, and we should be people who pay attention to detail,” she stressed.
In addition, she underscored the critical role of staff in maintaining quality assurance, including keeping offices clean, greeting visitors politely, filing documents properly, ensuring cleanliness in toilets and compounds, arriving on time, and maintaining self-discipline at work. Creating a daily checklist for tasks, she suggested, is another way to ensure quality.
“Remember, you hold the quality of the work in the place where you work. Whether it’s a professor, student, or visitor, please handle them properly because we are here because they are here,” Professor Tamusuza emphasized. She concluded by stressing the need for a shift in the image of the college and university, noting that this change starts with each individual. “There must be a change in the image of our college and university because of the services we offer. It begins with me,” she declared.
Offering motivational advice, she shared that quality is not just an action but a habit that everyone must cultivate. “Every small thing makes a difference. Doing your work well helps you remain healthy. Your work helps Makerere shine,” she concluded.
Work Ethics and Professionalism by Dr. Dickson Kanakulya
Dr. Dickson Kanakulya delivered a compelling session on the importance of work ethics and professionalism, emphasizing that a strong work ethic is the foundation for high performance and institutional success. He discussed how attitude, ethical behavior, and professionalism are integral to creating a productive and harmonious work environment.
In his presentation, Dr. Kanakulya underscored the transformative power of a positive attitude, describing it as essential for workplace success. “A negative attitude is like a flat tire—you won’t get anywhere until you change it,” he remarked. He explained that cultivating a positive outlook not only boosts personal engagement but also fosters productivity and collaboration among colleagues.
Dr. Kanakulya also reminded staff of the importance of aligning their actions with Makerere University’s core values of integrity, accountability, and respect. Ethical conduct, he emphasized, is critical for building trust, strengthening teamwork, and enhancing the university’s reputation as a global knowledge hub. “Ethical conduct builds trust, strengthens teamwork, and contributes to Makerere’s standing as a global knowledge hub,” he stated, highlighting how these principles serve both the individual and the institution.
He further stressed the importance of efficient use of time, urging staff to manage their schedules effectively and ensure that their tasks are completed in a timely manner. Efficiency, he noted, is a hallmark of professionalism and a vital component of high performance. Additionally, he encouraged staff to pay close attention to detail in their work, explaining that professionalism requires care and precision to uphold the university’s high standards.
Through his engaging presentation, Dr. Kanakulya illustrated how embracing ethical principles, maintaining a positive attitude, and demonstrating professionalism can enhance individual performance while contributing to Makerere University’s strategic vision.
HR Reforms to Streamline Operations– Chief HR Deus Mujuni
Chief Human Resource Officer, Deus Tayari Mujuni detailed Makerere University’s revised Human Resources policies, aimed at enhancing efficiency and compliance with employment laws. Addressing the retreat, he outlined updates from the amended 2009 HR Manual, which emphasize recruitment protocols, leave management, and payroll accuracy.
Mujuni reported that Makerere University has rolled out significant updates to its Human Resources (HR) policies, aiming to streamline staff management and ensure compliance with labor laws. The changes, unveiled by the university’s Human Resources Director, Deus Tayari Mujuni, focus on recruitment, leave management, performance evaluation, and payroll systems, as detailed in the revised 2009 HR Manual.
“The manual consolidates policies, procedures, and practices to guide the recruitment, development, and retention of staff,” Tayari explained, emphasizing its critical role in defining the responsibilities of the University Council and employees.
A key reform mandates that, starting FY 2024/2025, unit-level appointments funded by non-wage budgets will be prohibited, ensuring such funds prioritize teaching and research. The University Council reaffirmed this during its May 9, 2024, meeting, emphasizing that all salaries must align with the designated wage budget.
Tayari also underscored the expanded duties of line managers, which include monitoring performance, overseeing leave compliance, and ensuring accurate payroll management. Notably, staff on study leave must now submit signed bonding agreements and periodic progress reports, with failure to return from leave classified as misconduct under Section 9.6 of the HR Manual.
The revisions also enhance payroll accuracy by requiring timely updates about inactive staff receiving salaries. Occupational safety and health measures have been bolstered to comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
“These updates aim to propel Makerere into becoming a high-performance institution by aligning individual and organizational goals,” Tayari concluded. The reforms are expected to improve efficiency, accountability, and institutional alignment with Makerere’s strategic vision.
Participants react
The retreat underscored the critical role of non-academic staff in achieving Makerere University’s vision as a global knowledge hub. The event concluded with a collective commitment to apply the insights gained, ensuring that CHUSS remains a model of excellence within Makerere University.
Participants expressed gratitude for the retreat and praised its relevance to their roles.
Sunday Seezi, Chief Custodian, shared:
“This retreat was a first of its kind for us as non-teaching staff. Many times, we hear of workshops for academic staff, but this time we felt seen and valued. The activities were well-organized, and we left with valuable lessons to implement in our daily work. We appreciate our Principal for this initiative.”
Rebecca Talikaza, another custodian, added:
“We are indeed happy to be included in such an event. The choice of the hotel was excellent—we slept well, ate well, and learned a lot. The presentations were rejuvenating, and I believe everyone who attended has a changed mindset. However, I suggest that next time, participants be given certificates of attendance. It would mean a lot to many of us who don’t have formal academic qualifications.”
Annet Nakaye, a cleaner and messenger, noted:
“This was my first time attending such a workshop. I learned a lot about how to improve my work and serve better. I am grateful to our Principal for thinking about us. We promise to improve where we have been falling short.”
The retreat reaffirmed that achieving institutional goals requires the dedication and collaboration of every member of the university community.
Humanities & Social Sciences
Makerere University’s KISH Initiative Makes Strides in Combating Sexual Harassment
Published
2 weeks agoon
December 10, 2024By
Jane AnyangoMakerere University has recorded significant progress in addressing sexual harassment through its Kicking Sexual Harassment Out of Higher Education Institutions (KISH) project. Findings from the project’s endline dissemination, held on December 5, 2024, revealed the positive impact of interventions designed to create a safer academic environment.
Launched in 2020, the KISH project was a collaboration between the School of Women and Gender Studies, the School of Psychology, and the School of Computing and Informatics Technology at Makerere University. Funded by Uganda’s Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (Mak-RIF), the project adopted a whole-university approach to tackle sexual harassment holistically by involving all stakeholders and implementing diverse interventions tailored to different groups.
The project introduced several key components, including KISH Student Clubs for female students, an online sexual harassment course for students and staff, the Men’s Hub targeting male participants, and an innovative online reporting and response system. The initiative aimed to empower students and staff with life skills, increase awareness of sexual harassment policies, and establish accessible channels for reporting and addressing harassment.
During the online dissemination event Prof. Grace Bantebya Kyomuhendo, the project’s Principal Investigator (PI), highlighted the need for a systemic approach to tackle sexual harassment. “This issue cannot be resolved through isolated interventions. We designed KISH to address every aspect of the university system, engage all stakeholders, and foster collective responsibility,” she said. Prof. Bantebya emphasized the project’s focus on including men as part of the solution, stating, “Men are often labeled as perpetrators, but they need to be engaged as allies and advocates for change.”
Findings from the project’s baseline survey showed that over 75% of staff and 80% of students acknowledged that sexual harassment was common at Makerere University. Female students were the most frequent victims, while male students and staff were identified as the primary perpetrators. However, a culture of silence prevailed, with over 80% of female staff and 91% of female students who experienced harassment failing to report their cases. Factors such as fear of retaliation, normalization of harassment, and lack of trust in existing reporting mechanisms were identified as barriers.
The endline survey demonstrated a shift in attitudes and practices. Knowledge about sexual harassment and confidence in responding to incidents had increased among students and staff. The online reporting system was lauded for its ease of use, anonymity, and smartphone accessibility, providing a confidential platform for victims and whistleblowers. The KISH Men’s Hub emerged as a pivotal initiative, engaging male participants in dialogue about masculinity, gender equality, and their role in eliminating harassment.
Prof. Florence Muhanguzi, Project Co-PI, emphasized the transformative impact of these interventions. “The KISH initiative has empowered the university community by equipping them with tools to identify and address sexual harassment,” she said. While acknowledging the progress made, Prof. Muhanguzi stressed the need for sustained efforts to raise awareness and integrate KISH activities into broader university programs.
Representing the Chairperson Grants Management Committee, Ms. Phoebe Lutaaya Kamya commended the project for its high impact. “This initiative stands out as a life-changing innovation, and we hope it will extend beyond Makerere to other higher education institutions in Uganda,” she said.
The workshop was moderated by Prof. Julius Kikooma who is also Project Co-PI and featured presentations from other Co-PIs and panel discussions. Key recommendations from the dissemination meeting included incorporating sexual harassment training into orientation programs for new students, expanding awareness campaigns to reach all university units, and mainstreaming KISH initiatives into existing safeguarding policies. The project team also proposed seeking additional funding to enhance and sustain the initiative.
As the project concludes, it leaves a legacy of actionable strategies, robust systems, and an empowered community committed to fostering a safe and inclusive academic environment. Prof. Bantebya underscored the broader vision, stating, “The fight against sexual harassment requires a collective effort. Together, we can create a culture of respect, dignity, and zero tolerance for harassment in higher education.”
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