ATUHAIRE Ruth Disparities in Utilization of Maternal Health Care Services in Uganda
Ms. ATUHAIRE Ruth investigated the disparities in utilization of maternal healthcare services in Uganda. The study focused on the interrelationships and regional differences in early antenatal care, facility based delivery and early postnatal care. Results show early antenatal care increases facility based delivery and early postnatal care, which highlights the important role of early antenatal care attendance in utilizing other key maternal health services. Regional critical disparities were mainly due to differences in maternal education, community health worker availability, wealth and exposure to media. The study recommended an effective system that enables care to evolve with the woman from first antenatal care visit (within the first trimester) until 48 hours after delivery. And, broad dissemination of maternal health and continuum of care information across all regions without distinction of demographic, social or economic conditions. This study was funded by Makerere University Business School and was supervised by Assoc Prof. Leonard. K. Atuhaire, Assoc Prof. Robert. Wamala and Dr. Elizabeth Nansubuga.
ISABIRYE Alone Predictors of cervical cancer prevention practices among women in Uganda
Mr. ISABIRYE Alone investigated the determinants of cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination in Uganda. His study revealed that the majority (78%) of the girls had not been vaccinated. Higher likelihood of having ever been vaccinated was associated with girls who were schooling, living in households with 9 or fewer family members, and in the middle wealth status. Uptake of cervical cancer screening was also low (20%). The likelihood of cervical cancer screening was higher among women who; were in the rich wealth category, had attained secondary and post-secondary education, were married to farmers, and women who had received spousal screening-emotional -support. This study was funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), and supervised by Assoc Prof. Betty Kwagala and Dr. Martin Mbonye.
NANKINGA Olivia Child Care Arrangements and Wellbeing of Children of Employed Women in Central Uganda
Ms. NANKINGA Olivia investigated the relationship between childcare arrangements for women in work and the wellbeing of children. The study focused on the physical, social and emotional domains of wellbeing. Results show better wellbeing outcomes among children looked after in formal childcare facilities. Wealth status, number of children under five years and religion were significantly associated with better wellbeing. Child caregiving work is one of the lowest paying employment and this has implications on childcare. The study recommended Government participation in provision of childcare to enhance female employment and fast tracking policy commitments on Early Childhood Care and Education. Synergies between Government and Private Entities need to be strengthened to ensure childcare provision. This study was funded by DAAD, and supervised by Assoc. Prof. Kwagala Betty and Assoc. Prof. Walakira Eddy J.
SENDAWULA Kasimu Environmental sustainability practices of manufacturing small and medium enterprises in Uganda.
Mr. SENDAWULA Kasimu examined the relationship between environmental knowledge, environmental commitment, regulatory compliance mechanisms and environmental sustainability practices of manufacturing SMEs in Uganda. The study revealed that there is a significant positive relationship between action knowledge, environmental commitment, regulatory compliance mechanisms and environmental sustainability practices. The study further established that regulatory compliance mechanisms partially mediate the association between action knowledge, environmental commitment and environmental sustainability practices. Waste management, eco-friendly packaging, energy efficiency and water conservation were confirmed as actions undertaken by the manufacturing SMEs to safeguard the environment. The study recommends the government to: create an SME environmental conservation fund to support the dissemination of action knowledge; partner with private and civil society organisations to annually evaluate, recognize, and award manufacturing SMEs that demonstrate commitment to protecting the environment; and establish a desk under NEMA to monitor the compliance of SMEs to environmental regulations. This study was funded by the management of Makerere University and supervised by Assoc. Professor Peter Turyakira, Assoc. Professor Vincent Bagire and Dr. Cathy I. Mbidde.
KAKOOZA Victoria Higher Education, Economic growth and Labour market in Uganda (1985-2017)
Ms. KAKOOZA Victoria investigated the causal nexuses between Higher Education and Economic growth: as well as Higher Education and the Labour market in Uganda. In these times of increased automation and robotism; the future of higher education is dependent on the existence of the aforementioned nexuses. The study further partitioned the nexuses into gender, academic discipline and award level. Using econometric models, the study revealed that there exists a positive impact of higher education on: growth only in the long run; on labour productivity in both short and long run; while on Unemployment only in the short run. Statistical evidences of the impact of Male, Science and Undergraduates were found to be higher on the same variables than their counterparts the females, Arts, and Postgraduates. This study was funded by SIDA and Kyambogo University; and was supervised by Assoc Prof. Robert Wamala and Dr. James Wokadala.
WALUGEMBE Patrick Understanding Child Vulnerability in Rural Uganda: Determinants of Vulnerability Transition and Schooling
Mr. WALUGEMBE Patrick examined the determinants of transition from vulnerability among vulnerable children in rural Uganda. This followed concerns that vulnerable children and households experienced different outcomes despite receiving the same package of development interventions. The study examined panel data collected between 2011 and 2014 on 17,484 vulnerable households and children from 35 districts of Uganda. The study found out that transition from vulnerability was dependent on the unique household and individual characteristics such as the region, presence/absence of parents, presence of chronic illnesses, and the household size. The study further found that the abuse of substances and alcohol among children, and eating fewer meals was a key determinant of education prospects in these vulnerable households. The study recommends that government and partner interventions should recognize the unique characteristics, needs, and diversity among different vulnerable populations when developing intervention packages. The study was self-sponsored with technical support from FHI360 and AVSI-Uganda; and was supervised by Assoc. Prof. Robert Wamala and Dr. Cyprian Misinde.
Hoima and Kikuube Districts, Uganda – October 20, 2024
A group of third-year students from College of Business and Management Sciences’s Energy and Natural Resources Economics program visited the Kingfisher oil operations and Kabalega Airport in Hoima and Kikuube districts on October 20, 2024. Led by Dr. Peter Babyenda and Dr. John Sseruyange, and with authorization from the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, the visit offered the students an invaluable opportunity to connect classroom learning with field experience.
The primary objective of the field trip was to enhance students’ practical understanding of Uganda’s oil industry by observing the extraction and production processes firsthand. According to Dr. Babyenda, “Blending theory with real-world exposure is essential for these students, as it allows them to apply and expand their knowledge beyond the classroom.”
During the tour, students explored several key areas:
Practical Exposure – Witnessing the operational procedures of oil extraction offered students a concrete understanding of how theoretical concepts play out in the field, enhancing their grasp of the industry.
Economic Impact Analysis – Observing the economic role of oil production in Hoima and Kikuube allowed the students to explore its broader impact on local and global markets and its contributions to community development and Uganda’s economic landscape.
Technical Knowledge – The students gained insights into the technical aspects of oil extraction, learning about the complexities of the operations, the innovations employed, and the challenges faced by the industry.
Environmental and Social Considerations – Students observed the environmental practices in place and evaluated the social dynamics involved, gaining an understanding of how oil companies balance production with community and environmental sustainability.
Career Insights – With opportunities to interact with professionals in the oil sector, students received guidance on potential career paths in the industry, helping them make informed decisions about their futures.
Current Industry Issues – The group also delved into the status of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project and discussed challenges in oil and natural gas production, examining where Uganda stands in terms of production timelines, obstacles, solutions, and the role they can play as future energy professionals.
Reflecting on the trip, Dr. Sseruyange highlighted the importance of this experience in solidifying students’ understanding of Uganda’s evolving oil industry. “This field experience not only complements what they’ve learned in lectures but also equips them with a real sense of the operational and societal impact of the energy sector,”he noted.
The students expressed their gratitude for the immersive experience, noting how it broadened their perspectives and deepened their knowledge. The field trip served as an essential step in preparing them for careers within Uganda’s energy and natural resources sectors, bringing them closer to the industry’s forefront and the future of sustainable energy in the region.
The Environment for Development (EfD) Uganda team, led by Prof. Edward Bbaale, has been recognized as Runners-Up for the prestigious EfD Policy Impact Award 2024. Their impactful paper, titled “Policy Options for Clean Cooking and Reduced Biomass Dependency,” earned them a Certificate of Excellence during the 18th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the EfD network, held from October 3 to 6, 2024, at the Argyle Grand Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya.
Organized by the EfD Global Hub at the University of Gothenburg and hosted by EfD-Kenya Centre at the University of Nairobi, the AGM brought together researchers and policymakers from across the world. The event celebrated the remarkable work being done to influence global environmental policies.
Representing Uganda, Prof. Bbaale was accompanied by Mr. Gyaviira Ssewankambo, EfD- Mak’s Office Manager, and a team of researchers and collaborators. Among those present were Dr. Peter Babyenda, Dr. Susan Kavuma, Dr. John Sseruyange, Dr. Nicholas Kilimani, Dr. Florence Lwiza Nsereko, Mr. Jordan Ssemwanga, Mr. Nathan Mununuzi (Ministry of Water and Environment), and Eng. Domnic Mucunguzi (Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries).
Insights from the Study
The award-winning study, led by Prof. Bbaale and his research fellows—Dr. Babyenda, Dr. Sseruyange, and Dr. Kilimani—focused on “Promoting Inclusive Clean Energy Transition in Uganda: Evidence, Challenges, and Policy Options.” The research explored perceptions of cooking energy systems in Uganda, with an emphasis on the over-reliance on biomass, particularly charcoal, as the primary energy source in low-income areas.
The study revealed key barriers to the clean energy transition, including fear of electricity and liquid petroleum gas, weak public awareness, and insufficient regulatory frameworks. These challenges have slowed the adoption of alternative energy solutions in Ugandan households.
Prof. Bbaale emphasized the need for stronger regulatory support and awareness to foster the country’s energy transition: “The transition to cleaner energy requires overcoming public misconceptions and improving regulatory systems to promote sustainable cooking solutions.”
See video clips interview with Edward Bbaale and Peter Babyenda – Courtesy of the EfD Global Hub
Prof. Bbaale highlighted the value of the 18th AGM for fostering collaboration and growth within the EfD network. “The EfD-Mak Centre appreciates the efforts of colleagues who submitted proposals and papers, and we congratulate Dr. Lwiza and Dr. Kavuma for their contributions. These proposals are vital to keeping the Centre running,” Bbaale noted.
Looking ahead, he encouraged further mobilization of research fellows, recommending the appointment of collaborative leaders and co-leaders to enhance engagement and productivity within the Centre. A full report on EfD Uganda’s participation at the AGM is attached.
The School of Business, College of Business and Management Sciences, has concluded the 3rd Annual Doctoral Colloquium Programme, 2024, which brought together 34 PhD students, including 11 third-year and 23 first- and second-year students, for a four-day engagement held from Monday October 14 to October 17, 2024.
Organized under the leadership of Prof. Godfrey Akileng, Dean of the School of Business, and Dr. Kasimu Sendawula, the colloquium focused on the theme, “Research Grounding, Framing, Problematizing, and Making a Contribution for a Seamless PhD Experience.” The event aimed to educate participants on research proposals and thesis guidelines, enhance scholarly writing and presentation skills, and foster networking between young and senior researchers.
The colloquium achieved its objectives through sessions on both provisional and full admission processes, addressing essential topics such as proposal and thesis structure, conceptualization, literature review, qualitative and quantitative data analysis, philosophy of methods, scholarly writing, and ethical clearance. Paper presentation sessions, held on Days 3 and 4, allowed students to refine their research ideas and enhance their understanding of PhD management policies, philosophical foundations, and scholarly writing skills.
Prof. Godfrey Akileng highlighted the remarkable progress of the School’s doctoral program since its inception in 2019. “We have 31 active doctoral students, and five graduates are expected in January,” said Prof. Akileng. He expressed pride in the school’s initiatives, noting the increasing publication rate among both students and staff, which reflects the growing research output. Prof. Akileng encouraged scholars to present their research, develop a matrix for comments received, and work diligently to finish their work on time.
Prof. Akileng also emphasized the importance of customer satisfaction in research, stating, “Our business thought is that the best strategy is having a satisfied work customer and addressing their needs.” He reaffirmed that the staff remains committed to supporting students throughout their PhD journey, urging them to stay focused and follow the plan.
In addition to the ongoing training efforts, upcoming events include the November and December research seminars, where staff members studying abroad will present their work.
During his opening remarks, Prof. Edward Bbaale, Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), emphasized Makerere University’s strategic vision under the 2020-2030 plan, which focuses on transforming the university into a research-led and innovation-driven institution. Prof. Bbaale highlighted three key pillars of the strategy: increasing graduate enrollment, establishing research entities, and bridging research and policy.
“We aim to raise the graduate student population to 30% by 2030, with 10% being international students,” Prof. Bbaale said, adding that the current figure stands at 12%, with only 2% being international students. He also noted the creation of 68 research centers and institutes, such as the School of Business Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, as key steps in developing innovative solutions through collaborative research.
Prof. Bbaale encouraged students to embrace challenges and use the resources available at Makerere University to further their academic and research goals. “Your research is not just an academic pursuit; it’s a beacon of hope and a catalyst for societal change,” he said, citing the importance of interdisciplinary research and international collaboration in shaping the future of academic excellence.
Speaking at the closing of the colloquium, Dr. Julius Kikoma, Deputy Director of the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT) at Makerere University, praised the School of Business for its progress in doctoral training. “I’m happy to see that the school has grown its capacity to train PhDs,” Dr. Kikoma remarked, adding that the DRGT is working to make the PhD journey less isolating by organizing gatherings like the colloquium, which bring students together.
Dr. Kikoma further highlighted the reforms initiated by the DRGT to streamline PhD training, including a shift from open-ended to structured programs, cohort-based admissions, and providing full admission to students. “We’ve implemented changes to help PhD students move more smoothly through their journey,” he explained.
The symposium also featured contributions from experts such as Dr. Kassim Sendawula, the Coordinator of the PhD Programme at the School of Business, who underscored the value of expert feedback in the research process. Dr. Sendawula noted that the review process provided essential skills and insights, helping scholars refine their research and develop practical solutions.
The colloquium demonstrated Makerere University’s dedication to advancing graduate training and research, fostering a supportive community for PhD students. Dr. Kikoma highlighted that 350 applicants for PhD by research were received in the current academic year, underscoring the increasing interest in graduate studies at the university. The event concluded with a call for continued efforts to support PhD students, align research with national priorities, and maintain the momentum toward achieving the university’s vision of becoming a research-led institution.