The project team, Dr. Robinson Odong (C), Dr. Peter Akoll (R) and Mr. John Omara (L) share notes shortly before the stakeholders meeting in Mbarara City on 31st May 2022.
Most of the antibiotics used to manage diseases in humans and livestock end up in the environment. Antibiotics (ATBs), Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria (ARB), and Antibiotic Resistance (ARGs) have spread in almost all habitats globally. The Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) recognize the problem of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), and thus recommend: Prudent use of antimicrobials; and a “One Health Approach” to mitigate the problem. Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a situation where bacteria develop resistance against antibiotics intended to destroy them.
Dr Robinson Odong briefing stakeholders about the project
Antibiotics in the environment may induce AMR in bacteria, hence the risk of transfer to humans and wildlife. AMR reduces effectiveness of antibiotics, leading to higher costs of treatment, severe illnesses, and deaths. Globally, about 1.2 million people died in 2019 due to complications of AMR; Sub-Saharan African region alone had 255,000 deaths (Murray et al., 2022, The Lancet, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(21)02724-0).
Assoc. Prof. Charles Masembe, Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, CoNAS, Makerere University. He conducts research on animal diseases using molecular epidemiology tools with special focus on African Swine Fever genetics.
The Strategic Research Agenda by the Joint Programming Initiatives (JPI) calls for transnational studies on AMR in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Indeed, the role of livestock, wildlife and migratory birds in the spread of AMR has previously been under-emphasized, yet they are major reservoirs of ARB and ARG.
Dr Peter Akoll engages stakeholders on the commonly used antibiotics and the potential sites for sample collection
The PAIRWISE Project is being implemented in three countries in Europe, and two in Africa. PAIRWISE is investigating the risks posed to human health and the environment by pollutants and pathogens present in water resources. The project also aims to investigate the dispersal of ATB, ARB and ARG downstream Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) by comparing different geographical/climatic regions, wastewater management practices and types of water bodies.
Project partners include; National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Sweden; Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Norway; Linköping University (LiU), Sweden; Doñana Biological Station, Higher Council for Scientific Research, Spain; National Research Institute for Rural Engineering, Water, and Forestry, Tunisia; Faculty of Medicine Ibn Al-Jazzar Sousse, Tunisia; and the College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, Uganda.
Mr. David Nuwagaba, Mbarara District Natural Resources Officer sharing his views at the stakeholders meeting
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No. 869178-AquaticPollutants, Joint Programming Initiative on Anti-microbial Resistance (JPIAMR), www.waterjpi.eu; and JPI Oceans, www.jpi-oceans.eu. For Uganda, the three-year project is funded by the Swedish International Development Agency (Sida). The African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, www.aphrc.org coordinates the funding in Uganda.
One of the study areas, River Rwizi Catchment
In Uganda, the research activities are being conducted by researchers from the College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University including: Prof. Charles Masembe (Principal Investigator), Dr. Robinson Odong, Dr. Peter Akoll, Mr. Mayega Johnson (Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences) and Mr. John Omara (Department of Biochemistry and Sports Sciences) as team members. The study area in Uganda includes the catchment of River Rwizi, Lake Mburo National Park, and River Aswa.
The Team visits one of the study areas, River Rwizi Catchment
The research will contribute towards better understanding of the factors which influence the occurrence and spread of AMR in water systems, livestock farms, and birds. It will also contribute towards the Government of Uganda’s framework to combat the threat of AMR, through the National AMR Action Plan; design policies to reduce the risks of AMR, and the costs incurred for animal and human disease management.
Dr Peter Akoll moderated the discussion on potential sites for sample collection
On 31st May 2022, the project team from the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences led by Prof. Charles Masembe (Principal Investigator) held a consultative meeting to get buy-in and introduce the PAIRWISE Project to the key stakeholders in Greater Mbarara and River Rwizi catchment. The meeting also aimed to receive input from key stakeholders regarding the use of antibiotics in Greater Mbarara district and River Rwizi catchment, to document challenges of Antimicrobial Resistance and identify potential sites for fieldwork.
Mr John Omara from the Department of Biochemistry and Sports Sciences sharing his views on the study
The meeting was attended by administrators, senior health, water and environmental officers in Mbarara City and District including:
The District Chief Administration Officer represented by Mr Bakashaba Innocent
Mr David Nuwagaba, the District Natural Resources Officer
Mr Tumwebaze Herbert, Environment Officer, Mbarara City
Dr Oriokot Francis, Deputy Director, Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital
Dr Akashaba Andrew, Mbarara District Veterinary Officer
Mr Mwesigye Joseph, Environment Officer, Mbarara District
Mr Katongole Joseph, a farmer in Mbarara District
Mr Ayebare Calist, Fisheries Officer, Isingiro District, and a fresh graduate (May 2022, Makerere University 72nd Graduation) assisted in organizing the Stakeholders meeting. During the meeting, Dr Robinson Odong on behalf of Prof. Charles Masembe shared the project overview with participants, outlining the challenges of AMR, and expectations from the research. Stakeholders brainstormed and listed the commonly used antibiotics and the potential sites for sample collection. The research will take the One Health Approach, encompassing aspects of human, animal and environmental health.
Some of the District officials who participated in the PAIRWISE project consultative meeting in Mbarara City
Capacity Building under PAIRWISE Project
As part of the PAIRWISE capacity building component, the project is supporting research activities of two graduate students: Ms. Ndinawe Ruth Pamela (Master of Science in Molecular Biology) studying “The dispersal of antimicrobial resistance bacteria and genes through aquatic birds under different climatic and geographical conditions”; and Mr. George Katende (Master of Science in Immunology and Clinical Microbiology), studying “Characterization of clinically important antibiotic resistant bacteria and genes in river waters upstream and downstream of WWTPs and hospital effluent” https://cns.mak.ac.ug/blog/call-applications-msc-scholarship-under-pairwise-project.
Mr Ayebare Calist (R), Fisheries Officer, Isingiro District and Mr Katongole Joseph, a farmer in Mbarara District at the stakeholders meetingThe Team on the banks of River Rwizi, Isingiro District.Cattle watering in River Rwizi, Isingiro District. The water is also used for human consumption. PAIRWISE is investigating the risks posed to human health and the environment by pollutants and pathogens present in water resourcesA student drawing water from River RwiziThe Project team with farmers in Isingiro District
*****15 students from different departments at CoNAS are showcasing their projects.
Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds.
Launched in 2021, the National Science Week is an annual event organized by the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Secretariat under the Office of the President. The exhibition serves as a strategic platform for showcasing Uganda’s advancements in science, technology, and innovation, both at the national level and on the global stage.
Held under the theme“Made in Uganda: Innovation to Market”, the 2025 edition (running from 15th-20th June) aims to highlight the country’s growing capacity to transform home-grown scientific ideas and research into viable, market-ready products and technologies.
Team Leader Bill Garvin with team members Kalanguka Patience Pearl and Nuwagaba Victor showcase their project – converting invasive water hyacinth into sustainable biofuels through hydrothermal liquefaction.
Key highlights from the official launch of the National Science Week
During the official launch held on 13th May 2025, the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza, outlined several milestones Uganda has achieved over the past year, including:
The commencement of clinical trials for locally developed therapeutics, marking a significant step in Uganda’s biopharmaceutical sector.
Notable growth in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, including the deployment of over 5,000 electric motorcycles and 27 electric buses across the country.
Establishment of critical green infrastructure, including 140 battery swapping stations and more than 30 direct current (DC) fast chargers nationwide.
According to the Minister, these developments demonstrate Uganda’s advancing capabilities in green technology and sustainable mobility solutions.
The Minister also highlighted additional achievements by the STI Secretariat, including the revitalization of Sukulu Phosphates, the launch of both the Deep Tech and Climate Tech summits, and the operationalization of vaccine production lines for both human and animal health. Dr. Musenero expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for its continued support, emphasizing its strategic vision of leveraging science, technology, and innovation as a transformative vehicle to position Uganda as a continental leader in deep tech innovation.
Team Leader Mwebaze Bruce, with team members Atim Martha and Sebastian Jordan, showcase their Anti-fungal and Anti-bacterial Gel Research Project, an innovative solution aimed at enhancing public health in communities with limited access to conventional treatments.
The 2025 National Science Week Activities
The National Science Week is designed to be an interactive experience for all attendees. According to Ms. Cathy Muhumuza from the STI, the exhibition will feature various activities including the official opening by the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni, expected to take place on Thursday, 19th June 2025. Other activities will include policy dialogues, the Academia Day dedicated to young innovators, and the Investor Day providing a platform for innovators to connect with potential investors.
Additionally, the event will host a “Made in Uganda Supermarket,” allowing visitors to purchase products directly from exhibitors.
Students showcasing their product aimed at detecting harmful aflatoxins in food.The team led by Ayebare Sam is developing a reliable fuel gauge detector to improve vehicle fuel management and efficiency.
CoNAS Students’ projects
Among the many innovators featured at the exhibition are several talented student teams from CoNAS, presenting a diverse array of projects across scientific disciplines, including biotechnology and green energy. Guided by their lecturers and coordinated by Prof. Juma Kasozi, Deputy Principal of CoNAS, the students are showcasing the following projects:
Anti-fungal and Anti-bacterial Gel Research Project Team Leader: Mwebaze Bruce Team Members: Atim Martha, Sebastian Jordan This project explores the development of a topical gel with both anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, aimed at improving public health outcomes in communities with limited access to conventional treatments.
Minoxidil Production for Hair Regrowth Team Leader: Keinembabazi Melissa Team Members: Hashima Nanyiri, Nkamusiima Andrew Focused on producing affordable, locally made Minoxidil, this project aims to provide a cost-effective solution for treating hair loss.
Infrared Biosensor for Aflatoxin Detection Team Leader: Rubeihayo Randolp Team Members: Namuleme Martha, Wabitereza Teddy This innovation utilizes spectrophotometry to develop an infrared biosensor capable of detecting harmful aflatoxins in food, contributing to food safety and public health.
Biofuel Production from Water Hyacinth Team Leader: Bill Garvin Team Members: Kalanguka Patience Pearl, Nuwagaba Victor The project converts invasive water hyacinth into sustainable biofuels using hydrothermal liquefaction, offering an environmentally friendly alternative energy source.
Automobile Fuel Gauge Detector Team Leader: Ayebare Sam Team Members: Achieng Rosemary, Nakirinda Winnie This project involves the development of a reliable fuel gauge detector to improve vehicle fuel management and efficiency.
Students of CEDAT participating in the exhibition.Students from the College of Health Sciences participating in the exhibition.Other exhibitors at Kololo.
The College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) is one of the 9 constituent colleges of Makerere University, dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and education in Uganda.
Comprising two schools and seven departments, CoNAS offers cutting-edge research and academic programs across diverse fields, including chemistry, physics, mathematics, and biological sciences.
The College is committed to nurturing innovative thinkers and leaders who can tackle the complex challenges of today’s world through scientific exploration and discovery. With a long-standing tradition of academic excellence, CoNAS plays a central role in shaping Uganda’s scientific and technological future. It fosters a culture of critical thinking, problem-solving, and sustainable development. The College’s distinguished faculty, state-of-the-art laboratories, and collaborative research initiatives continue to inspire and develop world-class professionals who make significant contributions to both national and global progress.
This edition of the report highlights the activities and achievements of 2024, aligned with the University’s strategic focus on Innovative Teaching and Learning, Research, Innovations and Technology Transfer, and Strategic Engagement and Partnerships.
Transitioning from university life to the professional world can be a daunting experience for many graduates. This challenge is particularly pronounced in Uganda, the broader East African region, and across Africa, where many university leavers find themselves ill-equipped to face the realities of life after school. Issues such as limited career guidance, lack of personal development resources, and insufficient awareness of societal expectations leave many graduates unprepared for what lies ahead.
According to data from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), the youth unemployment rate in the country stands at approximately 13.3%. Each year, over 400,000 graduates join the job market, all vying for a mere 9,000 available formal employment opportunities. This staggering imbalance creates a climate of intense competition, often resulting in widespread disillusionment, anxiety, and in severe cases, depression – largely due to the absence of structured transition programmes to support young people during this critical phase of life.
While some graduates manage to find employment, launch entrepreneurial ventures, or pursue further academic study, many others struggle with prolonged unemployment or underemployment. This vulnerable group is at risk of turning to detrimental coping mechanisms such as substance abuse, criminal activity, or social withdrawal. One of the root causes of this unpreparedness is the lack of mentorship and real-world guidance in key areas such as workplace conduct, professional ethics, entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal financial management.
In response to this pressing need, the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) at Makerere University, through its School of Biosciences, has launched an innovative initiative – the Terminal Seminar/Symposium for Final-Year Students. Spearheaded by Heads of Departments within the School, the seminar is designed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and the realities of post-university life by equipping students with essential life and career skills.
Dr Kubiriza addressing participants.
Objectives of the Terminal Seminar
The seminar aims to:
Impart practical knowledge on workplace ethics, professional behaviour, and employability.
Cultivate entrepreneurial thinking and leadership skills, enabling students to create their own opportunities.
Provide strategies for coping with unemployment, social pressure, and the transition period.
Raise awareness about mental health and equip students with tools to manage transition-related stress.
Offer insights into navigating employment in public and private sectors, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the global job market.
Prof. Juma Kasozi, Deputy Principal of CoNAS, praised the initiative as a timely and strategic intervention that would equip students with practical skills and emotional resilience for today’s dynamic job market.
Expected Outcomes
By the end of the programme, students are expected to:
Gain a broader awareness of career and self-employment opportunities.
Develop realistic expectations about the challenges and opportunities post-university.
Experience reduced levels of frustration and vulnerability to harmful behaviours.
Build connections and networks with industry professionals and mentors.
Mr. John Walugembe, Executive Director of the Federation of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises Uganda, highlighted the value of time management and integrity in building a successful career.
2025 Terminal Seminar Event Highlights
On 23rd April 2025, CoNAS held its flagship Terminal Seminar for Final Year students set to complete their studies in June 2025. The seminar was coordinated by Dr. Godfrey Kawooya Kubiriza, Head, Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences, with support from Dr. Barbra Nerima and Dr. Joel Isanga, both faculty members from the Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology.
Mr. John Walugembe addresses participants.
The event featured a series of empowering sessions, designed to help students navigate the transition from academic life to the professional world. Key topics included career planning, workplace ethics, entrepreneurship, and mental well-being.
A line-up of seasoned professionals and motivational speakers – including Mr. John Walugembe, Executive Director of the Federation of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises Uganda, and Dr. Catherine Mbidde, Ag Director, Makerere University Innovations Pod (UniPod), also Lecturer at the School of Business at CoBAMS, shared their personal journeys, professional insights, and practical advice for thriving beyond the university walls. Other Speakers included Dr. Alex Behakanira from the Department of Mathematics, Makerere University; Mr. Henry Nsubuga, Manager, Counselling and Guidance Centre, Makerere University; Mr. Maurice Ssebisubi, Senior Programme Officer (Fisheries and Environment) at the Embassy of Iceland; and Ms. Sylvia Kajubi, Deputy Principal at the Insurance Training College of Uganda.
Dr. Catherine Mbidde, Acting Director of the Makerere University Innovation Pod, addressed students on leveraging the digital landscape to boost their careers.
Sharing his personal journey, Mr. John Walugembe offered valuable insights to students, emphasizing the critical importance of time management in shaping a successful career. He encouraged them to cultivate patience, resilience, and integrity as they transition from academic life into the professional world.
Mr. Walugembe also urged the students to maintain an open mind when approaching the job market. “You should not confine yourselves to roles within your academic fields. Remain open to exploring a wide range of opportunities that may arise. You need to approach the job market with flexibility,” he advised.
In his remarks, Dr. Alex Behakanira from the Department of Mathematics, Makerere University emphasized the need to remain open-minded and adaptable.
In addition, he highlighted the dual significance of academic excellence and strong professional networks, noting that good grades can open doors, but relationships and connections often determine how far one can go in their career journey. “The best way to build networks is to improve your value,” he advised.
Addressing the students on how to leverage the digital landscape to advance their careers, Dr. Catherine Mbidde emphasized the transformative potential of digital tools in shaping future opportunities. She, however, expressed concern over the growing trend of digital tool misuse – platforms that could otherwise be harnessed to explore career paths and unlock job prospects.
Mr. Maurice Ssebisubi, Senior Programme Officer (Fisheries and Environment) at the Embassy of Iceland, also an alumnus of CoNAS sharing his experiences.
Dr. Mbidde urged the students to invest in nurturing their entrepreneurial skills, encouraging them to proactively develop plans, engage in regular self-assessment, and seek out mentors who can offer guidance and support along their professional journeys. She underscored the importance of spiritual grounding, advising students to cultivate a strong relationship with God as a source of direction and resilience in navigating the complexities of their career paths.
Mr. Basiima Collins from UniPod emphasized the importance of a mind-set shift as graduates navigate their career paths. He urged students to actively participate in networking events and foster an entrepreneurial mind-set, stressing that these actions are essential for personal and professional growth. “By embracing opportunities for networking, you can build valuable connections and open doors to new possibilities. Additionally, cultivating an entrepreneurial mind-set allows you to approach challenges with creativity, resilience, and a proactive attitude, which are crucial qualities for success in today’s dynamic job market.”
Dr Joel Isanga from the Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology at CoNAS moderated the session.
Addressing students on the significance of mental health in the journey of career development, Dr. Alex Behakanira emphasized the need to remain open-minded and adaptable. He noted that although job opportunities may appear scarce, the broader landscape of opportunities remains vast and ever-evolving. Dr. Behakanira encouraged students to strive for relevance not only in their professional environments but also within their homes and communities, underlining the importance of being well-rounded individuals. Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Henry Nsubuga stressed the importance of safeguarding one’s mental well-being throughout their career path. He advised students to cultivate a resilient mind-set and to be intentional about steering clear of situations that may lead to emotional distress or depression.
Dr. Joel Isanga moderates the session.
In his remarks, Prof. Juma Kasozi, the Deputy Principal of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and Head of Academics, expressed his appreciation for the initiative. He commended the effort as a timely and strategic intervention aimed at equipping students with the practical knowledge and emotional resilience necessary to navigate the dynamic and often challenging world of work. Prof. Kasozi emphasized that such initiatives play a crucial role in bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world application. He extended sincere gratitude to the seminar coordinators, praising their foresight and dedication in conceptualizing and organizing the programme.
The Terminal Seminar will be held on an annual basis.
The Dean, School of Biosciences at CoNAS, Prof. Arthur Tugume graced the event.Some of the Final Year students at the seminar.Some of the students who participated in the session alongside the organizers and guest speakers.