Natural Sciences
Environmental Chemistry for Sustainable Development (ECSDevelop) Project Launched
Overall Objective: The ECSDevelop Project launched at Makerere University on 8th June 2022 aims to increase capacity and contribution of environmental chemistry research in higher education in a bid to address the local and global priority needs in improving water quality.
East Africa faces serious challenges in relation to atmospheric, soil and water pollution. The Lake Victoria basin and the Albertine Graben have not been spared either. The Lake Victoria Basin that is shared by Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania has undergone rapid urbanization in the last three decades. The high population density, rapid industrial growth and wastewater treatment plants in the vicinity of the lake have been reported as some of the sources of environmental contaminants such as plastic debris and endocrine disrupting chemicals. Aquatic ecosystems such as Lake Victoria have been reported as endpoints for plastics of all sizes, including microplastics. The harmful effects of microplastics such as starvation, death, oxidative damage, developmental defects and neurotoxicity to organisms have been reported. However, studies on the extent of microplastics pollution in fresh water bodies such as Lake Victoria and River Nile are limited.
The Environmental Chemistry for Sustainable Development (ECSDevelop) project, a joint programme between Makerere University, Uganda; Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Kenya; the University of Natural Sciences and Life Sciences, Vienna; and Kyambogo University targets to investigate the seasonal fluxes, sources and trophic transfer of microplastics within the aquatic ecosystem of Lake Victoria and River Nile. To establish the effect of petroleum exploration and production activities carried out in the Albertine Graben, the research team will examine multifaceted application of nanotechnology in the field of bioremediation of petroleum hydrocarbons.
The overall objective of the ECSDevelop Project is to increase capacity and contribution of environmental chemistry research in higher education in a bid to address the local and global priority needs in improving water quality and advancement of remediation technologies. Through the project, the researchers will explore regional capacities to jointly streamline existing curricula on environmental chemistry and ecotoxicology; develop a novel cost-effective state of the art technology to track and clean up contaminants in wastewater using locally available resources such as moringa oleifera and other plant materials; and develop efficient remediation technologies for crude oil contaminated soils and water of the Albertine Graben, Uganda.
The project will also support training of 5 PhDs and 4 MSc graduate researchers at Makerere University, Kyambogo University and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Kenya.
The three-year project launched by the Principal, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta on 8th June 2022 is funded by the Austrian Partnership Programme in Higher Education and Research for Development (APPEAR). The Principal Investigator is Dr Christine Betty Nagawa from the Department of Forestry, Biodiversity and Tourism at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University. Other members of the consortium are; Dr Patrick Sebugere from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University; Dr Christine Kyarimpa from Kyambogo University, Uganda; Dr Solomon Omwowa from Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), Kenya; Mr Silver Odongo, Makerere University; and Ms. Emily Chelangat (KAFUCO).
Impact of the project
- Under the project, curriculum in Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology will be developed. It will be practical oriented to address the increasing societal challenges in environmental pollution and climate adaptations.
- Publications, patents and policy briefs arising from research results will form an important baseline for new knowledge and technologies to be adopted.
- The project intends to equip local farmers with relevant skills to boost the production of moringa and gooseberries, which will be a sustainable source of the scaled-up bioremediation technologies. This will in the long run contribute to environmental conservation in the Lake Victoria basin and Albertine graben, and improve livelihoods among the famers through sale of moringa and gooseberries.
Stakeholders engagement
The research team held a two-day (7th-8th June 2022) meeting to introduce the project to stakeholders. The two-day workshop featured the launch of the project, presentations by Masters and PhD students, and a plenary discussion on how best to manage the project.
During the workshop, the Principal, CoNAS, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta and the Head, Department of Chemistry at Makerere University, Dr. John Wasswa pledged total support towards the implementation of the project.
At the plenary session, stakeholders deliberated on the best modes of engagement with different stakeholders to increase impact of the project. They also discussed the gaps in the project and brainstormed on ways of sustaining the project. Participants called for massive sensitization on the dangers of microplastics and involvement of communities in the implementation of the project.
Research projects of students sponsored by the ECSDevelop project
- Application of Nano particles in Bioremediation of Oil Spill in the Albertine Graben, Uganda– Abura Tobby Oliwit from the Department of Chemistry, CoNAS, Makerere University
- Assessment of Acaricide Residues in Trans Nzoia County and Mechanism of their Adsorption by Zeolites – Sifuna Douglas Bukhebi from Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), Kenya
- Occurrence of microplastics in the gastrointestinal tract and gills of Oreochromis niloticus from fish breeding areas of northern Lake Victoria– Faith Atukwatse, Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, Makerere University
- Seasonal variations in the levels and trophic transfer of microplastics and nanoplastics in Lake Victoria basin – Godfrey Muhwezi, Department of Chemistry, Kyambogo University
- Investigating Sources of Microplastic Contaminants into Lake Victoria through Nakivubo Channel – Simon Ocakacon, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Makerere University
- Thermodynamics and Kinetics of Hexachlorobenzene Adsorption on zeolites – Manada Timothy, Department of Physical Sciences, (JOOUST), Kenya
- Sources, Seasonal variations, trophic transfer and magnetic carbon nanotunbe-removal of microplastics from the Ugandan portion of Lake Victoria – Omara Timothy, Uganda National Bureau of Standards
- Sorption of Dichlorophenyltrichloroethane, Chlorpyrifos, Atrazine, and Glyphosate by activated charcoal and moringa husks in a packed small diameter column – Ahimbisibwe Michael, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Makerere University
- Quantification, spatial prediction and green nano remediation of crude oil contamination in the soils and water of the Albertine Graben, Uganda, Amina Nalweyiso, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Makerere University
Overview
The Ugandan government has increasingly recognized the critical role of science education in driving the nation’s economic development. As such, it has put in place deliberate policies aimed at popularizing science education in schools. This initiative seeks to equip the youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute effectively to the country’s development. Since 2004, science education has been made compulsory in lower secondary schools, and the Uganda Government has continuously emphasized the importance of science and technology through policies like the National Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Policy, introduced in 2009. These policies aim to create a strong foundation for the country’s “Transformation for Prosperity,” focusing on technological innovation and development. The introduction of astronomy and space science as part of the curriculum supports this vision, offering students the tools to explore scientific concepts that will drive future innovation.
About the Project – Use of Astronomy and Space Science to Promote Science Education in Schools
In an initiative geared towards bolstering science education in Uganda, Makerere University Department of Physics is leveraging the wonders of astronomy and space science to ignite curiosity and enthusiasm among learners. The project, led by Prof. Florence Mutonyi D’ujanga from the Department of Physics has reached 10 schools in Kampala, Luwero, and Mukono districts, using the vast universe to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and mathematicians. The astronomy outreach activities have impacted numerous schools across different regions in Uganda. The initiative started during the COVID-19 lockdown, with initial outreach to nearby schools in Kampala. As the programme gained momentum, it expanded to various districts, benefiting students from both primary and secondary levels. The schools that have participated in the programme include, Kampala: Makerere College School and Makerere CoU Primary School, Luwero: Mulusa Academy (Wobulenzi), Wobulenzi Bright Parents, Janan Luwum S.S., and Janan Luwum Nursery & P/S, MUkono: Our Lady of Africa S.S., Kyesereka CoU P/S, Mpoma Royal College, and Mpoma Junior School.
Aims and Objectives of the Project
Funded by the Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), the central aim of this initiative was to use astronomy and space science to capture the imagination of students, encouraging them to embrace the study of science and mathematics. “By engaging students in hands-on, interactive learning activities, the project seeks to improve their performance in these critical subjects. The initiative focuses on making science enjoyable, accessible, and inspiring, fostering a positive attitude toward the subject from an early age,” explained Prof. D’ujanga.
Activities conducted
The project began with a questionnaire to assess the students’ initial understanding of astronomy, followed by tailored outreach activities that addressed gaps in knowledge and sparked excitement about the subject. The activities included;
- Telescope Assembly: Students learned to assemble telescopes using local materials, helping them gain a hands-on understanding of how astronomy tools function.
- Sky Viewing: Students had the opportunity to observe celestial bodies like stars, planets, and constellations, experiencing the universe up close.
- Cultural Astronomy Storytelling: This component introduced students to the rich cultural narratives surrounding astronomy, linking science with history and tradition.
- Astronomy Quiz Sessions: Fun, educational quizzes challenged students’ knowledge of astronomy, stimulating a deeper interest in the subject.
- Planetarium Shows: The project also featured immersive planetarium shows, which are a highlight for many students. These shows provided an exciting visual experience, where learners could see projections of stars, planets, and other celestial phenomena. The planetarium is at the heart of this outreach programme. Traditionally used for educational purposes in the field of astronomy, the planetarium has a hemispheric domed ceiling, which serves as a projection screen for images of celestial objects. The immersive environment fosters curiosity and excitement among learners, laying a solid foundation for further study in science. One of the main objectives of the planetarium shows is to break down the myth that sciences are difficult. By using visual and interactive methods, the project demonstrates that learning about space and the universe can be both fun and inspiring.
Project research dissemination event
On 21st March 2025, the project team hosted a dissemination event at Makerere University to present and share their research findings. The event was presided over by Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Principal of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration at Makerere University. The event was attended by students, school administrators, as well as representatives from MakRIF and the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation. In her address, the Project Principal Investigator (PI), Prof. Florence D’ujanga, emphasized the importance of sparking curiosity in students to encourage them to pursue scientific studies. “By making astronomy and space science more accessible and engaging, this project seeks to inspire greater interest in science education, ultimately benefiting Uganda’s long-term development in critical fields such as technology, engineering, and mathematics,” she explained.
On behalf of MakRIF, Dr. Mercy Rebekah Amiyo expressed appreciation to the research team for their invaluable initiative in promoting the study of science through astronomy. Dr. Amiyo praised the team’s dedication to making complex scientific concepts more engaging. She called upon the project team to secure property rights and take proactive steps toward the commercialization of the project.
In his remarks, the Guest of Honour, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta emphasized the importance of nurturing scientists who understand principles rather than simply memorizing frameworks. He emphasized the importance of early exposure for children to develop an appreciation for science. He expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for its continued support towards research activities at Makerere University.
Testimonies by students
Sharing their testimonies about the project, Jonathan Mugabi and James Tanzinge, both S.4 students at Makerere College School, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity it provided. They noted that the project had ignited a newfound passion for research, significantly expanding their interest in exploring scientific topics. Through their participation, they were introduced to essential scientific vocabulary, which has helped to deepen their understanding of complex concepts. Additionally, the project exposed them to cutting-edge technology, fostering a sense of excitement and curiosity about the role of innovation in science. As a result, both students have developed a strong desire to continue their studies in the sciences at a higher level, inspired by the hands-on experiences and knowledge they gained from this initiative.
Click on the link below for the pictorial of the dissemination conference;
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Wv5xLOwiNe8Tc9uOWBpt9xvOtwffLHdo?usp=sharing
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