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First Lady Hon. Janet Museveni Commends Two-Decade Swedish Support

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The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, represented by the State Minister for Primary Education Hon. Dr. Joyce M. Kaducu, has this morning Monday 9th May, 2022 officially opened the International Conference commemorating over two decades of research cooperation between Uganda and Sweden.

Present at the opening ceremony were the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovations, Dr. Monica Musenero, the Head Development Cooperation, Embassy of Sweden in Uganda, Mr. Ola Hällgren, the Chairperson Makerere University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, the Vice Chancellor Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the First Secretary Research Cooperation at the Embassy of Sweden, Dr. Gity Behravan. The Session was moderated by the Director, Directorate of Research and Graduate Training and Overall Programme Coordinator for the Sida-Makerere University Cooperation, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi moderates the Opening Session.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi moderates the Opening Session.

On behalf of the Government of Uganda, the Minister thanked the Royal Government of Sweden for the unconditional and generous support towards the advancement of research and innovations in Ugandan institutions of higher learning. To-date, there have been four consecutive research agreement periods with a total support of SEK 813M (USD 116M). Initially started with Makerere and a few Swedish Universities, the collaboration has grown over the years to include more than 17 Swedish Universities and four other Ugandan Public universities. These are Kyambogo University, Busitema University, Gulu University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

“Two decades of Swedish support have greatly improved our research culture and through the numerous research projects conducted, the Government of Uganda has been able to formulate well informed policies that will lead to sustainable development,” said Hon. Janet Museveni.

Hon. Dr. Joyce Kaducu represented the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni.
Hon. Dr. Joyce Kaducu represented the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni.

The Minister further reiterated government’s commitment to continue supporting initiatives aimed at promoting research and innovation development.

“Government has made significant impact through the Presidential Initiative on Science and Technology. The President committed UGX 25 billion to support research and innovations in science-based colleges at Makerere University,” she said, adding that this was supplemented in 2020 with the establishment of the research and innovations fund at Makerere University, with an annual budget support of UGX.30billion.

“The fund illustrates the increasing importance that the government of Uganda attaches to research and innovation as a driver for socio-economic transformation,” she added.

The First Lady noted that whereas this successful research partnership is scheduled to come to an end after 30th June 2022, Ugandan universities lost much of their research and academic calendar due to the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitating a structured recovery plan.

“Our prayer is that this great partnership can be renewed for purposes of continuity and sustainability of our joint achievements. This renewal of our Research Cooperation Agreement for another five years would enable the Universities successfully recover from the adverse effects of the pandemic,”  the Minister implored.

Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero makes her remarks.
Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero makes her remarks.

On behalf of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MoSTI), Hon. Dr. Musenero, pledged to ensure that the capacity built by the research collaboration between Swedish and Ugandan universities would be put to good use in line with national development priorities.  

“Transformation of research into enterprise remains a core target of my Ministry, and in this regard the government has committed funds to enable researchers to continue doing research. Examples include the research and innovation fund at Makerere and the research and innovation fund at MoSTI.

“Embracing innovation is not only critical to the future of our economy but also key to improving the wellbeing of our society. We have the advantage of building on world leading research already carried out in our universities,” said Hon. Dr. Musenero.

She called upon Makerere and other public universities to review and integrate the innovation and cluster component into academic programmes and partner with business development and research institutions such as Uganda Industrial Research Institute (UIRI) to establish a local technology and resource centre. Such initiatives, she noted, would help universities to effectively incubate clusters, nurture product innovation, enhance product quality and stimulate enterprise growth.

the Head Development Cooperation, Embassy of Sweden in Uganda, Mr. Ola Hällgren,
the Head Development Cooperation, Embassy of Sweden in Uganda, Mr. Ola Hällgren,

On behalf of the Swedish Embassy, Mr. Ola Hällgren noted that in addition to the research and innovation outputs, solid relationships with the capacity to outlive the duration of the programme have been built between Swedish and Ugandan researchers and institutions. “The cooperation has indeed been successful in terms of developing capacity both at institutional and individual levels and has contributed to both university and national policies in different sectors.”

He highlighted some of the figures from the collaboration as; 263 Masters, over 400 PhDs and 85 Post-doctoral staff trained from the five public universities, in addition to 98 small research grants awarded. Furthermore, quality assurance policies and structures for research and graduate training have been established at all collaborating Ugandan universities. Additionally, thematic multidisciplinary networks have also been setup with the aim of attracting new collaborators with new funding.

Mrs. Lorna Magara addresses delegates at the Opening Ceremony.
Mrs. Lorna Magara addresses delegates at the Opening Ceremony.

The Chairperson Makerere University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, said the need for Makerere University to play a more deliberate and purposeful role in national development is more prominent than ever before, especially as the institution celebrates 100 years of existence with only 17 years left to the attainment of Vision 2040.

“This fast approaching national milestone requires Makerere to constantly refine her strategies and outputs to meet both current and emerging demands in Education, Agriculture, Industry, Health, Law and Science, among other spheres. The Covid-19 pandemic demonstrated to us that Uganda has the potential to address a number of its domestic needs and lay strategies to meet the needs of its citizens in the future,” remarked Mrs. Magara.

On behalf of Makerere University, the Chairperson thanked His Excellency the President for his visionary leadership in endorsing the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF), which has augmented the capacity built over two decades by the Uganda-Sweden Research Cooperation.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (L) contributes to the discussion as the Chairperson of Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara (R) listens.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (L) contributes to the discussion as the Chairperson of Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara (R) listens.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe thanked the Royal Government of Sweden for the support that has led to tremendous achievements in capacity development and research outputs with great impact on Makerere University and other communities in Uganda.

“Swedish government support has included PhD training at Makerere and four other public universities, facilitation of supervisors to do research with their counterparts in Sweden, Faculty research funds and independent university-wide research,” he said.

Prof. Nawangwe shared that the funding has also supported the improvement of research laboratories in units such as the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, the College of Health Sciences, and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio Security. Support was also extended to the Geographical Information Systems and Cross-cutting Biomedical Laboratory, ICT Infrastructure and Library Services, as well as administrative costs for the programme.

Reiterating the Minister’s request for an additional phase of collaboration, the Vice Chancellor said, “We all know that the support is supposed to be coming to its end but I will not tire to say, I think it is a bit too early and it does no harm to reconsider this decision”.

Speeches from the day

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Vice Chancellor Updates Media on Medical Drones, Road Safety Research & Various Issues

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Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (Centre) with Dr. Andrew Kambugu (Left) and Dr. Fredrick Oporia (Right) at the Press Briefing on 29th May 2025. Press Conference featuring Infectious Diseases Institute—the IDI Medical Drone Programme and Kampala Status Summary 2023 on Road Safety Risk Factors, conducted under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety. This collaborative effort between the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and our Trauma, Injury, and Disability Unit (TRIAD) Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH), Senior Common Room, Main Builing, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi on Thursday 29th May, 2025 held a press conference to update members of the Media on the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) Medical Drone Programme, and the Kampala Status Summary 2023 on Road Safety Risk Factors, conducted under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety, a collaborative effort between the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and the Trauma, Injury, and Disability (TRIAD) Unit at Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH). Also presented were updates on; Digital Certification of Academic Transcripts, Digital Supervision of Graduate Students, Inclusive e-Learning and Smart Classrooms, and Launch of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Laboratory at the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS).

The event held in the Senior Common Room, Main Building, was on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe presided over by the Acting (Ag.) DVC AA and substantive Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. Presentations were made by Executive Director of the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Dr. Andrew Kambugu and Head of the Trauma, Injuries, and Disability (TRIAD) Unit, Dr. Fredrick Oporia. Dr. Jimmy Osuret and Dr. Esther Bayiga from TRIAD supplemented Dr. Oporia’s presentation. In attendance were; the Director for ICT Support (DICTS)-Mr. Samuel Mugabi, Deputy Chief – Public Relations-Ms. Betty Kyakuwa, Deputy Chief Security Officer-Mr. Musa Mulindwa and other university officials.

The proceedings of the Press Conference follow below;

Vice Chancellors’ Press Statement

Good morning colleagues, members of the press,

It is my pleasure to welcome you to this important media briefing, where we share compelling findings from two groundbreaking studies that reflect Makerere University‘s ongoing commitment to impactful research, innovation, and community transformation.

The first is a pioneering initiative led by the Infectious Diseases Institute—the IDI Medical Drone Programme. This project explores the use of drone technology to deliver lifesaving HIV medications and test samples to hard-to-reach populations, particularly in Kalangala District and the West Nile region. The study demonstrates how drones can overcome logistical barriers, reduce costs, and enhance access to critical healthcare in some of Uganda’s most underserved communities.

The second study is the Kampala Status Summary 2023 on Road Safety Risk Factors, conducted under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety. This collaborative effort between the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and our Trauma, Injury, and Disability Unit here at Makerere University presents over two years of data on vehicle speed and helmet use in Kampala. It provides vital insights into the human behaviours and systemic gaps contributing to road traffic injuries and fatalities—particularly among vulnerable road users. The study also offers evidence-based recommendations for enforcement, planning, and public health messaging aimed at making Kampala’s roads safer for all.

We are proud to support this kind of research that not only advances knowledge but also drives tangible improvements in public health and safety.

Before I invite the researchers to present their findings, allow me to briefly highlight some transformative developments in the areas of academic registry and ICT advancement here at Makerere University:

  1. Digital Certification of Academic Transcripts:
    • Alumni can now certify their transcripts digitally through the Makerere Academic Records System (Mak-ARS https://makars.mak.ac.ug/), eliminating the need for physical visits. This user-friendly platform allows access from anywhere in the world, supported by comprehensive video tutorials and public communications.
  2. Digital Supervision of Graduate Students
    • We have introduced the Research Information Management System (Mak-RIMS), piloted at the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, to streamline the supervision of Master’s and PhD research. This initiative enhances accountability, timely feedback, and is now being rolled out university-wide to improve graduation rates.
  3. Inclusive eLearning and Smart Classrooms
    • Through support from development partners and the Government of Uganda, we are establishing multimedia studios and smart classrooms across our colleges. These state-of-the-art facilities are designed to produce professional, accessible learning content, including tools tailored for students with visual and auditory disabilities. This aligns with our goal of equitable, globally competitive education.
  4. Launch of the AI Laboratory at CoCIS:
    • The newly launched Artificial Intelligence Laboratory will spearhead the development of AI-enabled solutions tailored to Uganda’s socio-economic needs, including localized assistive eLearning tools and context-sensitive curriculum development.

These initiatives are part of our broader vision to transform Makerere University into a research-led, inclusive, and globally relevant institution.

Detailed Presentations

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Prof. Aina Visits Mak, Evaluates CECAP II Progress

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Prof. Omotade Akin Aina (Left) receives the Makerere Souvenir Book from Prof. Tonny Oyana as Prof. Julius Kikooma (2nd Right) and Mr. Charles Lwanga (Right) witness. Prof. Omotade Akin Aina-Carnegie Corporation of New York meeting to discuss progress of Consolidating Early Career Academics Programme (CECAP) phase II, which focuses on fostering academic development and research among early-career academics, 23rd May 2025, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Senior Program Director, Higher Education and Research in Africa, International Program, Carnegie Corporation of New York, Prof. Omotade Akin Aina on 23rd May 2025 visited Makerere University during his short trip to Kampala. Prof. Aina was received on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe by Prof. Tony Oyana, Principal of the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS).

During his visit, Prof. Aina met with the Project Implementation Committee, representatives from the Consolidating Early Career Academics Programme (CECAP) phase I Fellowship Cohort, and current Fellows of phase II. The meeting discussed the progress of CECAP II, which focuses on fostering academic development and research among early-career academics.

Left to Ritght: Dr. Jesca Nakavuma and Prof. Julius Kikooma alongside Prof. Omotade Akin Aina during the meeting. Prof. Omotade Akin Aina-Carnegie Corporation of New York meeting to discuss progress of Consolidating Early Career Academics Programme (CECAP) phase II, which focuses on fostering academic development and research among early-career academics, 23rd May 2025, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Left to Ritght: Dr. Jesca Nakavuma and Prof. Julius Kikooma alongside Prof. Omotade Akin Aina during the meeting.

CECAP II is being implemented by Makerere University in collaboration with four other Ugandan public universities, including; Busitema University, Gulu University, Kyambogo University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology. Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza, the Project Principal Investigator was represented at the meeting by the Director of Graduate Training, Prof. Julius Kikooma.

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Directorate of Graduate Equips Schools and Colleges with Training in Philosophy of Methods

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By Moses Lutaaya

The Directorate of Graduate Training at Makerere University has equipped several Senior ranking lecturers with expert knowledge in a Training of Trainers’ workshop on “Philosophy of Methods”.

In his remarks at the opening of a 3-day training workshop at Level4 Conference Hall – Senate Building, the Director of Graduate Training Prof. Julius Kikooma said, “The teaching of Philosophy of Methods gives all participants the fundamentals to extend knowledge to other learners, hence its importance in upholding the Makerere University values.”

Kikooma urged and challenged the participants to also attend and actively participate in the follow up of learners’ training of students, stating that the PhD students need support as the directorate continues to coordinate the curriculum of PhD by-research that was approved by the senate recently.

“To holistically implement the senate approved PhD curriculum, we are coordinating capacity building trainings of all stake holders in a structured approach with the different units of the University. Many more trainings including Training of Trainers in advanced research methods course are on the way.”

He further urged the participants to be intentional in their teaching profession and in whatever they were doing, adding “Apart from focusing on practices as teachers and researchers, we can engage in wider philosophical debates in our research areas so that we are relevant in the society and in the empowerment of PhD research students.”

 The participants for the Philosophy of Methods training were from College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Education and External Studies, Makerere University Business School among others.

During the same training, Dr. Dickson Kanakulya stressed the need to train senior lecturers in the Philosophy of Methods, saying, “The biggest connection is that societal problems require concrete research to find solutions. Our challenge in Africa is that we employ a short barrow approach to find solutions to problems. This cannot work. We need consistent researchers to solve problems. Lasting solutions to societal issues can only be got through training such as Philosophy of Methods, where researchers come up with new models for societal solutions.”

Prof. Julius Kikooma pose for a photo with participants and facilitators.

Dr. Kanakulya said that Makerere University remains the biggest research University in Africa and philosophy of Methods helps to come up with good research tools that produce good research outputs. “Research has shown that the higher the number of PhD researchers in any given country, the higher the levels of development of that country e.g. the USA, China etc., adding that research is not limited to only medicinal or agricultural related issues.”

He said philosophy of methods, encourages philosophical creativity in research, “It is meant to bring out philosophical generation of concepts, theories and ideas. It is meant to encourage students to question the existing philosophical assumptions and status quo in a given field of knowledge such that new philosophical concepts are created.”

 For successful rollout of government programs like the National Development Plan 4, Dr. Kanakulya said that Philosophy of Methods training needs to be integrated into such systems. “Philosophy of Methods focuses on ethical thinking aspects. For example, for a better rollout of the Parish Development Model, we need implementers to be ethical.” He added.

 Prof. Sulait Tumwiine, the associate Dean of Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research at MUBS said, “This is a discussion where new ideas are shared to guide and gauge applicability in the current knowledge diversity coupled with lots of technological development including Artificial Intelligence and Chat GPT.”

He added, “As professors of Universities, we need to understand how we leverage on what comes up so that it does not take our space, but also appreciate how we can support growth of knowledge. The Philosophy of Methods training is the answer.”

 Dr. Jim Spire Ssentongo highlighted that Philosophy uses more of the critical mind than Science. He added that philosophy is more of speculation of the mind.

“Sustainability of philosophy Education encourages us to continue training. Philosophy being the oldest discipline retained special status in the academia as a pinnacle of pursuit of knowledge. All disciplines have major elements of philosophy citing examples in the philosophy of Mathematics and Physics.

Dr. Spire added, “If you do not understand philosophy, you cannot deeply investigate anything because philosophy is the reality of understanding everything. Philosophy is the basis of understanding what knowledge is and how it is arrived at.”

Also participating in the workshop was Prof. Joseph Ntaayi from MUBS, in his remarks he said PhD students need the philosophy of methods training to understand how to best to create knowledge. He added that ontological and epistemological questions that lead to good research design methods can only be answered by this training.

Dr. Robert Kakuru, a Lecturer in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences said that the Philosophy of Methods training is needed by every graduate student as well as supervisors to critically determine the choice of methods to use in academic research. For example, “If one wants to use a questionnaire as an interview approach, one should understand, why that approach and yet without this training, the why cannot be answered.” He added.

The Philosophy of Methods training was organized by Directorate of Graduate Training with funding support from the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA).

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