Connect with us

Veterinary & Biosecurity

CoVAB’s 2022 Summer School & International Boma come to a close

Published

on

The College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio security successfully completed the 2022 Summer school and the International Cultural Boma that was held on the Theme; Tropical Veterinary Medicine and One Health in Uganda: A need for partnership and collaboration for development.

Students from the Mississippi State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, USA took part in a one-month summer school organized by the college.

Deputy Principal CoVAB Prof. James Okwee Acai makes his remarks at the Boma.
Deputy Principal CoVAB Prof. James Okwee Acai makes his remarks at the Boma.

Following the completion of the activity, a Boma which is a knowledge sharing and exchange session was convened at the College in partnership with AFROHUN Uganda on Friday 1st July 2022.  It brought together students under the One health program as well as students from Mississippi State University USA.

Prof. James Okwee Acai, the Deputy Principal on behalf of the Principal Prof. Norbert Frank Mwiine welcomed the participants to the knowledge sharing opportunity where CoVAB and Makerere University as a whole was sitting together with Mississippi State University and AFROHUN to share experiences and what was learnt in Tropical Veterinary Medicine as well as getting to know what happens outside the said sphere.

Prof. Stephen Reichley makes remarks during the Boma at CoVAB.
Prof. Stephen Reichley makes remarks during the Boma at CoVAB.

‘It is in the interest of sharing information to identify and address challenges that affect life’, said Prof. Okwee while extending his appreciation to Mississippi State University for the over ten-year relations it has had with the College despite the challenges.  He said what started as a summer school may no only last but grow into problem solving partnerships in research, training and community development.

The Team Leader from Mississippi University Prof. Stephen Reichley appreciated CoVAB for the lead role in organizing the one-month long Summer School that brought his students into contact with a new area with most of them being in Africa for the first time.  He said the summer school was opening up opportunities for further collaboration in areas like student exchange programs as well as graduate research.  It was a great experience for the students to move out of their area to the unknown and that the exposure left lifelong imprint on the students’ academic, practice and outlook towards life he noted.

Summer school participants listen to other peoples' experiences.
Summer school participants listen to other peoples’ experiences.

Dr. Gabriel Tumwine the Summer School coordinator said the one-month expedition by the students from Mississippi State University was a great field experiential learning opportunity using one health approach. He said the deliberations in the Boma were an opportunity for the organizers to get feedback which would inform the subsequent summer school and Boma.  Tumwine commended Dr. Sente for keeping with the team while in the field all through. He took cognizance of the students from AFROHUN who were taking part in the Boma to share their experiences and lessons learnt from their placements in various parts of the country and the projects they handled within the communities.

In a presentation by Dr. Peninnah Nsamba, a Veterinarian and Virologist, it was explained that effort has been on to bring the one health concept to the fore front by showing students that it was not only their individual professions that mattered rather a synergy was necessary for the needed balance and multi-sectoral approach in addressing community challenges.   She highlighted some of the successes realized to date and these included bringing together students from various disciplines and colleges in Makerere and other Universities who through a didactic course commit to solve community challenges in a holistic approach.

Dr. Peninnah Nsamba makes her presentations on the One Health succeess story.
Dr. Peninnah Nsamba makes her presentations on the One Health succeess story.

The Mississippi State University students that included Katie Ann Stanley, Brook Taylor Dominello and Jordan Leigh McCoy presented a report about their field experiences that took them into contact with various disciplines including Aquaculture and fisheries, conservation, the abattoirs, dairy production, the national parks, small animal clinics as well as agriculture.

They appreciated attendant factors like religion that formed part of the reason for family cohesion as one thing that struck them. They appreciated the creativity among Ugandans in the way they handled different Veterinary issues but called for improvement in the abattoirs and slaughter houses as well as general animal welfare.

Mississippi State University Students on Summer School out in the filed attending to goat kids.
Mississippi State University Students on Summer School out in the filed attending to goat kids.

Similarly, students in the 2021 AFROHUN cohort presented reports where they shared their field experiential learning. Using the one health concept that was developed to appreciate the interconnectedness of every sector,environment, human and animal, the students explained that the experiences helped them appreciate a lot of things and supported the host communities solve some of the identified and prioritized challenges.  The areas visited included slaughter houses and the problems identified included lack of protective gear, people involved in self-medication and the associated risk in microbial resistance. The other community challenge handled was sharing water sources by animals and humans in Pallisa and how the situation was addressed together with the community leadership.

Dr. Claire Mugasa (Right) hands over certificates to participants at the close of the Boma.
Dr. Claire Mugasa (Right) hands over certificates to participants at the close of the Boma.

Dr. Claire Mugasa, the Dean School of Biosecurity, Biotechnology and Laboratory Sciences (SBLS) formally closed the Boma and congratulated all the teams for having completed the program as scheduled.  She said their participation was an opportunity for shared learning   and she extended the College’s appreciation to AFROHUN for the opportunity given to students of various disciplines to work on real life challenges using the one health approach.  She was happy to learn that the principles learned were put into practice and was optimistic that the future was bright with more and more people working towards the realization of the one health approach.

A Mississippi State University Student out in the field of wildlife conservation, just next to a rhino.
A Mississippi State University Student out in the field of wildlife conservation, just next to a rhino.

The International Cultural Boma as a concept in an African context means a meeting that allows learning and a two-way exchange of information between elders and youngsters. African culture involves the transfer of wisdom and knowledge from the wise, knowledgeable, and highly experienced elders to the young that are mentored into responsible community members. The concept was therefore used to allow opportunity to share knowledge from all stakeholders as experienced in the course of learning.

Harriet Musinguzi

Veterinary & Biosecurity

Global Scholar Prof. John B. Kaneene Pushes for Structural Change in Ugandan Universities to Elevate Research and Innovation

Published

on

Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Renowned academic Prof. John B. Kaneene has called for sweeping structural reforms across Ugandan universities, including Makerere University, to enhance their global competitiveness and research output. Speaking at a forum on science and innovation, held on August 26th at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Prof. Kaneene emphasized the urgent need for improved facilities to support active research participation.

He urged institutions to revamp their reward systems, noting that scholars who achieve significant milestones should be recognized in line with their contributions. “Success must be incentivized,” he said, adding that such recognition would motivate researchers and elevate academic standards.

The guest lecture was held under the theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation.” The session explored the transformative role of universities in enhancing human wellbeing, societal development, and economic growth. It offered critical insights into institutional frameworks such as tenure and promotion, innovation and research ecosystems, and mentoring and incentive structures—drawing valuable lessons from Michigan State University to inform Uganda’s evolving science, technology, and innovation landscape.

Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. John B. Kaneene from Michigan State University was the Guest Speaker at the Science and Innovation forum at CoVAB, Tuesday, 26th August 2025.

At the discourse attended by scientists, prodigy Scientists, administrators, and regulators of Scientists, Prof. Kaneene also criticized the current promotion framework, calling for stricter, merit-based criteria free from political interference. He proposed a more rigorous system for academic progression, from Assistant Lecturer to Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, and ultimately Professor. “The title of Professor should be earned through demonstrable excellence in both research and teaching,” he stated, arguing that current standards fall short.

In addition to structural reforms, Prof. Kaneene highlighted the need to improve the quality and quantity of academic publications. He advocated for a shift from basic science to industrial and translational research, where universities produce innovations that directly benefit public health and economic development. “We must bridge the gap between research and real-world solutions,” he said.

Prof. Kaneene concluded by urging the Ugandan government to recognize universities as engines of national progress. He called for increased funding, better infrastructure, and targeted support for top scientists. “With the right investment, our universities can drive economic growth and improve the health of our communities,” he affirmed.

Speaking at the opening of the event, Ms. Brenda Nakazibwe, Bureau Chief, Pathogen Economy at the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Secretariat under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing Uganda’s pathogen economy and strengthening its scientific research ecosystem. She highlighted the Secretariat’s role in supporting research development and fostering ecosystem establishment as Uganda moves toward sustainable growth. She emphasized that the bureau is actively working to position science and innovation as key drivers of economic transformation.

Ms. Nakazibwe commended the presentation by Prof. John B. Kaneene, a distinguished U.S.-based academic, describing his insights as highly relevant to both scientists and the general public. She acknowledged his longstanding contributions to Uganda’s scientific landscape, particularly his involvement in the foundation of the STI Open Platform (STI OP), formerly known as the Presidential Scientific Initiative on Epidemics (PRESIDE). The PRESIDE initiative was instrumental in fast-tracking research and innovation in vaccines, drugs, and therapeutics in response to emerging diseases and public health threats.

She further emphasized the importance of the issues raised during the discussion, including innovation, research incentives, academic tenure, and promotion systems. Ms. Nakazibwe described these as “tangible and actionable areas” that must be addressed across all levels of Uganda’s scientific and academic institutions.

“These are not abstract ideas and practical reforms that can strengthen our research culture and ensure our scientists are empowered to deliver solutions for national development,” she stated.

(L) Prof. Enock Matovu, Director CEBIGH, where the discourse was hosted. Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
(L) Prof. Enock Matovu, Director CEBIGH, where the discourse was hosted.

While introducing Prof. John B. Kaneene, Prof. John David Kabasa emphasized that the discourse stemmed from a longstanding consortium between universities in the United States and Africa. This partnership has been instrumental in driving major advancements in Uganda’s veterinary and biosecurity sectors. Speaking at the strategic engagement on science and innovation, Prof. Kabasa highlighted the consortium’s focus on capacity building in the integrated management of transboundary diseases and zoonoses, noting that it laid the foundation for transformative change in the country’s scientific and academic landscape.

He noted that the partnership’s strength and future-oriented vision led Makerere University to approve a development strategy and investment plan that upgraded its Faculty of Veterinary Medicine into the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity. “Biosecurity became central to our mission because we are focused on global biosecurity,” Prof. Kabasa said.

Prof. John David Kabasa explained that the discourse stemmed from a longstanding consortium between universities in the United States and Africa. Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. John David Kabasa explained that the discourse stemmed from a longstanding consortium between universities in the United States and Africa.

Over the past 15 years, he said, the consortium has yielded significant milestones, including the establishment of a Master’s program in Biosecurity, ongoing development of a PhD in Biosecurity, and the creation of a Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health. These efforts are now being aligned with the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation to promote Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation, key pillars of Uganda’s emerging industrial bioeconomy under the pathogen economy framework championed by His Excellency, the President of Uganda.

Prof. Kabasa, alongside Prof. John B. Kaneene and other founding scientists, announced plans to elevate the consortium’s work to a new level, with a renewed focus on global biosecurity and industrial bioeconomy. He revealed that partners mentored through the original initiative, including directors from the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), senior scientists at the ministry level, and academics from other universities, are injecting fresh energy into the collaboration.

“We are now engaging to define how universities can lead national transformation, and what strategic steps they must take to reposition themselves,” Prof. Kabasa stated. He confirmed that a series of follow-up meetings will be held to chart the path forward.

Dr. Monica Namayanja, Centre Manager CEBIGH. Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Monica Namayanja, Centre Manager CEBIGH.

The Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health (CEBIGH) is one of the specialized units established at Makerere University, whose creation is part of a broader vision to develop a regional veterinary college through the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB). As a key research and development entity, CEBIGH is instrumental in repositioning CoVAB as a leading driver of scientific innovation, strategic research, and public service nationally and globally. Through its work, CEBIGH is emerging as a major contributor to Uganda’s growing pathogen economy.

Harriet Musinguzi

Continue Reading

Research

Makerere Scientists Document Climate-Smart Innovation in Sentema, Applaud Farmer’s Odor-Control Breakthrough

Published

on

Some of the Cattle on the farm located in a residential area in Sentema. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.

A team of scientists under the regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited Mr. Mugisha Jonan, an urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, whose adoption of innovative practices is redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings.

Mr. Mugisa, a farmer and environmentalist explains how he started his farm and took on the use of the innovation. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Mr. Mugisa, a farmer and environmentalist explains how he started his farm and took on the use of the innovation.

Through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, Mr. Mugisha has not only resolved the persistent issue of odor from his dairy farm, but is also unlocking more profitable outcomes by embracing climate-smart agricultural techniques. Central to his approach is the use of VTC Technology, a system designed to recover nutrients from diverse waste streams, including farm and market waste, and return them to their original sources. This transformative method was introduced to him by Dr. Herbert Mukiibi, a renowned scientist from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity at Makerere University.

The Scientists inspect the innovation where wastes are dumped and will eventually turn into manure. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
The Scientists inspect the innovation where wastes are dumped and will eventually turn into manure.

Based on the demonstration on the farm, the innovative practice will help in reshaping urban agriculture by enhancing sustainable food production while simultaneously addressing critical environmental challenges such as waste management and odor control. Mr. Mugisha’s work stands as a compelling example of how local science-driven solutions can empower urban farmers and contribute to greener, more resilient cities.

Prof. Asaete, Dr. Nampanzira, Dr. Herbet Mukiibi were conducted around the vegetable garden where the manure is applied. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Prof. Asaete, Dr. Nampanzira, Dr. Herbet Mukiibi were conducted around the vegetable garden where the manure is applied.

Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira Kalule led a team that included Dr. Herbert Mukiibi, the innovator who collaborated directly with Mr. Mugisha to implement the nutrient recycling innovation. Also part of the team was Prof. Josephine Esaete from the College of Education and External Studies, part of the members of the bigger project research team that includes Prof. Robert Stephen Tabuti and Prof. Vincent Muwanika, both from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at Makerere University.

 “Mr. Mugisha’s work exemplifies the kind of innovation we aim to capture, document and validate as solutions that are proven to work, locally driven, environmentally sound, and socially inclusive,” said Dr. Nampanzira, following a tour of the project site nestled within a densely populated urban residential area.

Dr. Nampanzira said the reason for the visit to the farmer was because through the project, scientists were looking out for farmers doing unique things that actually give them good results which are not known to the scientists. She said the purpose was to validate such practices and have them promoted.

A vegetable garden with a high yield. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
A vegetable garden with a high yield.

The project, Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate-Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa (CICSA-E&SA), continues to engage with farmers who have adopted some climate-smart agricultural practices by identifying and supporting solutions that work for farmers on the ground. Through hands-on engagement and collaboration, the initiative focuses on practical innovations that address real challenges, ensuring that climate-smart agriculture is not only sustainable, but also accessible and effective for local communities.

While describing the innovation demonstrated by Mr. Mugisha, Dr. Herbert Mukiibi explained that the Nutrient Recycling Technology is designed to recover nutrients from various waste streams such as domestic, farm, hospital, schools or market waste and return them to their original source. If the nutrients came from the garden, the ultimate goal is to return them to the garden, Dr. Mukiibi noted. He said that most systems release nutrients through waste, which wastes are often mistreated because people don’t realize they are valuable resources. He said through such interventions, they were coming in to tap on these wastes and return them to the garden in a ready form that can be used by the crops for better yields without necessarily using inorganic forms of fertilizers.

Dr. Mukiibi emphasized that this technology not only promotes sustainable agriculture but also transforms public perception of waste, from a nuisance into a valuable resource thereby encouraging more responsible and productive environmental practices. He commended Mr. Mugisha, the farmer behind the initiative, for embracing the technology and personally financing its development. Thanks to Mr. Mugisha’s commitment, the project has advanced to the point where it is nearly ready to produce, package, and sell organic manure, marking a significant milestone in practical nutrient recycling.

“We want to document the various innovations that promote climate-smart agriculture while simultaneously addressing farmers’ real-world challenges,” said Prof. Asaete Josephine, who is part of the research team. “The innovation demonstrated by Mr. Mugisha not only solved his initial problem, the unpleasant smell of dung that was causing concern in the neighborhood, but also evolved into a broader solution. What began as an effort to manage odor has also addressed nutrient deficiencies. That’s where the climate-smart aspect comes in, she noted.  Instead of spending resources on inorganic fertilizers, the farmer is now benefiting from nutrient recycling, which promotes faster plant growth while tackling the original issue of odor.”, she noted.

Mr. Mugisha explains the Innovation that has helped him resolve the challenge of waste and odor management on his farm. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Mr. Mugisha explains the Innovation that has helped him resolve the challenge of waste and odor management on his farm.

Mr. Mugisha informed the visiting team that he initially started the farm to meet his family’s nutritional needs. However, as the farm grew, he encountered significant challenges related to waste management, which led him to connect with Dr. Herbert Mukiibi, whose expertise helped guide him toward innovative solutions. He said he first adopted biogas technology yet, odor problem persisted, leading him to explored more sustainable options and eventually embraced the nutrient recycling innovation. He said transforming waste into organic manure enabled him resolve the environmental concerns but also enhanced the productivity of his vegetable gardens, and is moving towards packaging and sale of organic manure.

The team interacts with Mrs. Mugisha (R). In the background is the slab where the manure will be dried before further processing and packaging. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
The team interacts with Mrs. Mugisha (R). In the background is the slab where the manure will be dried before further processing and packaging.

The CICSA-E&SA project is a multi-institutional collaboration led by Makerere University, in partnership with the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (Norway), Maseno University (Kenya), and LUANAR and DARS (Malawi). The project is funded by the Norwegian Agency for International Cooperation and Quality Enhancement in Higher Education (Diku) and aims to promote climate-resilient agricultural practices across East and Southern Africa.

Harriet Musinguzi

Continue Reading

Research

CoVAB Unveils Taught PhD in Livestock Development and Planning

Published

on

Stakeholders pose for a group photo after unveiling CoVAB's pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning on 14th August 2025. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.

The College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) at Makerere University has officially launched its pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning an initiative marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda. Designed to address pressing challenges in the livestock sector, the program will blend academic rigor with practical relevance, equipping scholars with the skills and knowledge needed to drive sustainable development, enhance food security, and shape policy across the region.

In alignment with Makerere University’s curriculum development framework, stakeholders from across the livestock industry were invited to contribute their insights to ensure the program is relevant, rigorous, and responsive to contemporary challenges.  The stakeholder engagement forum that brought together academics, civil society actors, farmer representatives, donor agencies, and policymakers was convened at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) on Thursday, 14th August 2015. The objective was to solicit broad-based input into the proposed taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, fostering a collaborative approach to shaping its content and direction.

Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira, Head, LIR Department gave opening remarks. Right is Prof. Anthony Mugisha, Left, Dr. Rose Azuba, the facilitator of the stakeholder meeting. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira, Head, LIR Department gave opening remarks. Right is Prof. Anthony Mugisha, Left, Dr. Rose Azuba, the facilitator of the stakeholder meeting.

Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira Kalule, Head of the Department of Livestock and Industrial Resources, welcomed the participants and acknowledged the need for a collaborative effort that would help in the improvement of the proposed program. “This program is not just going to produce intellectually capable individuals, it will produce citizens equipped to solve the real-world challenges facing the livestock industry,” she emphasized.

Dr. Nampanzira paid special tribute to Professor Anthony Mugisha, whom she described as the “thought leader” behind the initiative. His visionary proposal for a taught PhD program ignited a college-wide collaboration, ultimately leading to the development of a curriculum tailored to the evolving needs of Uganda’s livestock sector, she said. She acknowledged the contribution by departmental staff for their unwavering commitment to the development of the program.  Quoting Nelson Mandela, she underscored the transformative power of education: “Education is the most powerful weapon which we can use to change the world.” She likened the new PhD program to a finely crafted weapon, calling on participants to help sharpen it through open dialogue and shared expertise. “We are here to sharpen this weapon,” she said. “The enemy is food insecurity and poverty. Let us be bold, open, and visionary in shaping this program.”

A section of the stakeholders that were at the meeting. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
A section of the stakeholders that were at the meeting.
Dr. Henry Zakumumpa who represented the Ag. Director, DRGT at the stakeholder engagement. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
Dr. Henry Zakumumpa who represented the Ag. Director, DRGT at the stakeholder engagement.

“We must strike the right balance,” said Dr. Henry Zakumumpa who represented the Ag. Director of the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training Professor Julius Kikooma. “Doctoral research requires depth, time, and intellectual maturity, he said while giving counsel on the program which he said should emphasize more on research output”. Zakumumpa said as part of the ongoing reforms, the university was reaffirming the importance of cross-cutting mandatory courses, including Philosophy of Methods, Research Methodology, Gender Research, and Research Writing. These core units are examinable and graded, forming a critical foundation for doctoral scholarship and ensuring that PhD candidates are equipped with essential research competencies and analytical skills.

While referring the college to existing guidelines  Zakumumpa advised the team to incorporate a benchmarking process that draws on successful external models, notably the taught PhD program at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), which has been commended for its structured approach and academic rigor.

Staff of CoVAB that participated in the stakeholder engagement. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
Staff of CoVAB that participated in the stakeholder engagement.

Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources (SVAR), who represented the Principal of the College, Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, expressed his delight at the milestone achieved. He described the engagement as a valuable opportunity to refine the program and urged the team to strictly adhere to the provided guidelines in order to successfully navigate the approval processes at both Makerere University and the National Council for Higher Education. He congratulated the Department of Livestock and Industrial Resources (LIR) on their progress and encouraged other departments to follow suit in designing academic programs that are responsive to societal needs.

Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean SVAR congratulated the LIR Department for the milestone. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean SVAR congratulated the LIR Department for the milestone.

Prof. Anthony Mugisha noted that the department initially conceptualized the program idea and, with support from agencies such as RUFORUM, received valuable guidance throughout the development process. He emphasized the importance of advancing beyond technical training to cultivate thought leaders and philosophers within the sector. “With the Master of Livestock Development program, we have begun building a critical mass,” he said, “but we now need to nurture philosophers—individuals who can think deeply and strategically for the future of the sector.”

This PhD focuses on advancing sustainable, ethical, and technologically driven livestock systems. It prepares experts in Livestock production and management, climate-resilient farming, Artificial Intelligence and Digital tools and big data in agriculture as well as Animal welfare and policy leadership.

The organizers of the Stakeholder engagement were recognized and commended for their relentless effort. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
The organizers of the Stakeholder engagement were recognized and commended for their relentless effort.

Harriet Musinguzi

Continue Reading

Trending