L-R: (Holding the dummy cheque) Dr. Euzobia Baine Mugisha-Director Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, H.E. Zhang Lizhong-Ambassador of People's Republic of China to Uganda and the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe in a group photo with the scholars and some members of staff on 26th July 2022 at Senate Building, Makerere University.
“When he entered the room, they looked at him with beaming smiles, an expression of the sincere gratitude deep within. A true friend, he was representing a generous People and Country that saved them from dropping out of Makerere University!”
That was the mood on Tuesday 26th July, 2022 when the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Uganda, H.E. Zhang Lizhong entered the Tele-Presence Centre at the Senate Building to officiate at the Scholarship Award Ceremony.
A total of 24 Makerere University students who are academically gifted, but challenged with raising tuition and functional fees received financial support to continue and complete their studies courtesy of the Chinese Ambassador’s scholarship programme.
H.E. Zhang Lizhong presented the scholarship package worth UGX 83 million to Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe at a colourful award ceremony witnessed by the beneficiaries and invited guests.
The 24 scholarship recipients currently in their third year of study were identified and supported during the second year of study, following documented evidence that they had performed well in the first year of study, but were struggling with payment of tuition and functional fees to move on to the next level. The Chinese Ambassador’s scholarship programme is coordinated by the Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD).
H.E. Zhang Lizhong (C) presents the dummy cheque to Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (R) as Dr. Euzobia Baine Mugisha (L) witnesses.
In her remarks, the Director GMD, Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine welcomed Ambassador Zhang Lizhong to Makerere University and commended him for continuity of the scholarship programme started by his predecessor. She thanked the Ambassador and the People’s Republic of China in general for the scholarship programme aimed at transforming lives of the scholars through provision of access to university education.
Providing an overview, Dr. Mugisha Baine pointed out that Makerere University signed the Chinese Ambassador’s scholarship contract in 2018 when the then Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China presented the scholarship programme as a sign of friendship and cooperation between the people of Uganda and China.
“In 2018, the Chinese Ambassador offered 30 scholarships to students who are academically talented, but economically disadvantaged to study at Makerere University. In 2020, the Chinese Embassy renewed this scholarship offer by supporting an additional 24 students with scholarships categorized into two – the Friendship Award and Excellence Award.
“To date, 54 scholarships have been awarded to students studying various programmes in the different Colleges at Makerere University. The first cohort started with the Academic year 2018/2019. Out of the 30 scholars in the first cohort, 26 had graduated as at May 2022. The second cohort of 2020/2021 are now in the third year of study and are 24,” highlighted Dr. Mugisha Baine.
She was happy to note that the scholars have continued to excel in their studies. “We are delighted that three (3) of the 26 graduates obtained first class degrees, fifteen (15) obtained second class upper degrees and the rest second class lower degrees. The remaining four (4) are pursuing programmes that are more than three (3) years and are expected to complete studies this semester.”
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nawangwe underscored the value of education by quoting a line from the speech delivered by President Nelson Mandela on 16th July 2003 at the launch of the Mindset Network in South Africa.
“Education is the great engine of personal development. It is through education that the daughter of a peasant can become a doctor, that the son of a mine worker can become the head of the mine; that a child of farm workers can become the president of a great nation.”
Nelson Mandela
Prof. Nawangwe informed the audience that although many people in Uganda value education, not everyone can access university education. He provided an account of telephone calls that he regularly receives from different parts of the globe requesting for scholarships to study at Makerere University. He also noted that every year, more than 1,000 students drop out of school due to lack of fees.
Based on this lived experience, Prof. Nawangwe saluted the Ambassador and People’s Republic of China for the generosity extended to students pursuing studies at Makerere University supported by the Chinese Ambassador’s scholarship programme.
Upholding the fact that there are many more students who would wish to receive such scholarships, the Vice Chancellor implored the lucky scholars to concentrate on their studies and use the knowledge acquired to contribute to the transformation of communities, Uganda and the world at large.
“Education will enable you to be a better person. Always remember that as a beneficiary under the Chinese Ambassador’s scholarship, you have a duty to create a positive change in your life, your families and communities. When you become a better person, we expect you to uplift your families and communities,” he said.
Prof. Nawangwe re-echoed to the students that Makerere University by virtue of a number of collaboration activities/programmes involving the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, Chinese companies, the Confucius institute, and memoranda of understanding with universities in China accords them a number of golden opportunities to further their education.
H.E. Zhang Lizhong, Ambassador of People’s Republic of China to Uganda.
Presenting the dummy cheque worth UGX 83 million to the Vice Chancellor, H.E. Zhang Lizhong congratulated the scholars on being awarded the Chinese Ambassador’s scholarship for Excellence and Friendship. The Ambassador pointed that for five consecutive years, nearly 100 students have received financial support to fulfill their dreams through the Chinese Ambassador’s scholarship, with some graduates already active in all walks of life in Uganda. He thanked the Vice Chancellor and staff of Makerere University for promoting education and cooperation between Uganda and China.
H.E. Zhang Lizhong disclosed that people-to-people exchange is an important component of the China-Uganda Comprehensive Cooperative Partnership. He was therefore happy to witness the fruitful results brought by the cooperation in the education field among China, Makerere University and the Ministry of Education and Sports.
The Ambassador acknowledged the Confucius Institute at Makerere University for the instrumental role played in cementing the relationships at different levels and partnerships involving Uganda and China. The Confucius Institute has facilitated classes and cultural exchanges that have enabled many Ugandans to learn Chinese.
“The first phase of language training has been completed successfully and 100 Ugandan teachers for Chinese language are able to teach Mandarin in schools in Uganda, and the second phase of 500 is in good progress,” he highlighted. He also stated that for the past five years, China has provided 5,000 training opportunities and government scholarships to Ugandans.
H.E. Zhang Lizhong (L) and Professor Barnabas Nawangwe (R) chat after the Award Ceremony.
In line with the Ambassador’s address, the Director of the Confucius Institute at Makerere University, Dr. Gilbert Gumoshabe called upon the scholars to create time and participate in activities undertaken by the Institute. He also expressed readiness to work with the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate to come up with a schedule that would enable the scholars to learn the Chinese language and culture.
On behalf of the students, Ms. Daphne Naudho who is studying a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences profoundly thanked the Ambassador, the People’s Republic of China and Makerere University for according them the golden opportunity to complete their studies.
“Your generosity has inspired us to help others and give back to the community. Thank you for putting our feet on the path of true greatness and setting us on the path of true discovery,” remarked Naudo amidst applause from scholars.
The Principal Public Relations Officer, Ms. Ritah Namisango moderates the Award Ceremony.
Ms. Ritah Namisango, the Principal Public Relations Officer of Makerere University moderated the Scholarship Award ceremony as well as discussions between the Ambassador, the Vice Chancellor, the Confucius Institute, staff, scholars and the media.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.