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Mak Press launches Nine Books, 40 in the Pipeline

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The atmosphere was festive on the warm Tuesday afternoon of 28th June 2022 as the Makerere University Press (MUP) presented its bumper harvest of nine (9) scholarly titles to the public. And, as any proud “parent” would, the Managing Editor, MUP, Dr. Samuel Siminyu took time to carefully introduce each of his “children”; the book titles and their respective authors. But first, he profusely thanked the authors for entrusting MUP with their intellectual property, an act he partly attributed to the reputation Makerere has earned itself over the century of existence.

Makerere University Press is basing on that historic achievement to also make a name for you, for itself and for Makerere in the scholarly publishing arena” Dr. Siminyu praised. “Working with you personally has extended our circle of acquaintances and deepened our comradery” he added.

Dr. Samuel Siminyu, Managing Editor, Makerere University Press (MUP).
Dr. Samuel Siminyu, Managing Editor, Makerere University Press (MUP).

The nine books launched that afternoon were;

  1. Runyakitara Language Studies: A Guide for Advanced Learners and Teachers in Runyakitara edited by Oswald K. Ndoleriire,
  2. Contemporary Issues in Educational Research and Policy in the Global South edited by Connie Ssebbunga-Masembe and Samuel N. Siminyu,
  3. What I Saw When I Died by Jimmy Spire Ssentongo,
  4. Moving Back into the Future: Critical Recovering of Africa’s Cultural Heritage edited by Dominica Dipio,
  5. Countering Violent Extremism in Uganda: An Assessment of the History, Philosophies and Strategies by Veneranda Mbabazi and Others,
  6. Lulu ya Bara by Innocent Masengo,
  7. HIV/AIDS in Uganda: Achievements and Challenges edited by James Kiwanuka-Tondo,
  8. Statehood on Trial: Thoughts on the 1966 Uganda Political Crisis by Joseph Bossa, and
  9. (Mis) Management of sub-Nationalism and Diversity in “Nations”: The case of Buganda in Uganda, 1979-1980 by Godfrey Asiimwe

Author appreciation

After his brief appreciation to the hardworking Prof. Oswald Ndoleriire and his team for their book Runyakitara Language Studies: A Guide for Advanced Learners and Teachers in Runyakitara, Dr. Siminyu pondered, “if we cannot publish to promote and immortalise the study of our local languages, who will?” He was nevertheless happy to announce that relatedly, MUP had received and was processing manuscripts in and about Kiswahili, Luganda, Luo, Ateso and Lusoga.

Runyakitara Language Studies: A Guide for Advanced Learners and Teachers in Runyakitara edited by Prof. Oswald Ndoleriire.
Runyakitara Language Studies: A Guide for Advanced Learners and Teachers in Runyakitara edited by Prof. Oswald Ndoleriire.

Turning to Sr. Dominica Dipio, he thanked the prolific author, filmmaker and Professor of Literature and Film for not only transferring her book Moving Back into the Future: Critical Recovering of Africa’s Cultural Heritage from an international publisher to MUP but also reminding his team of our collective obligation to reach out to the whole world with our African voice.

Moving Back into the Future: Critical Recovering of Africa’s Cultural Heritage edited by Prof. Sr. Dominica Dipio.
Moving Back into the Future: Critical Recovering of Africa’s Cultural Heritage edited by Prof. Sr. Dominica Dipio.

Dr. Siminyu then thanked Prof. Connie Sebbunga-Masembe for reminding us all that higher education is not just the concern of educationists at the College of Education and External Studies. Describing the book Contemporary Issues in Educational Research and Policy in the Global South as “a rich mosaic of ideas that could help propel higher education in our region to another level,” he was happy to share that it had already been warmly received and labelled by scholars of higher education as “very informative”.

Contemporary Issues in Educational Research and Policy in the Global South edited by Prof. Connie Ssebbunga-Masembe and Dr. Samuel N. Siminyu.
Contemporary Issues in Educational Research and Policy in the Global South edited by Prof. Connie Ssebbunga-Masembe and Dr. Samuel N. Siminyu.

“As a public intellectual, Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo endeared us to the common man on the street with his sweet satire – What I Saw When I Died. We have had to ship his popular title across the country and into neighbouring Kenya and Tanzania on taxis, buses and boda-bodas” complimented the Managing Editor.

What I Saw When I Died by Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo.
What I Saw When I Died by Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo.

Dr. Siminyu then thanked Dr. Veneranda Mbabazi and her team for showing through their book Countering Violent Extremism in Uganda: An Assessment of the History, Philosophies and Strategies that researchers can subject even fields as intimidating as terrorism to scholarly reflection. “We hope that their findings will contribute to our understanding of and fight against terrorism.”

Countering Violent Extremism in Uganda: An Assessment of the History, Philosophies and Strategies by Veneranda Mbabazi, Helen Nambalirwa-Nkabala, Dickson Kanakulya, Samson Barigye, Charlotte Karungi Mafumbo, Hilary Kiiza, Umar Serunjogi and Abdu Katende.
Countering Violent Extremism in Uganda: An Assessment of the History, Philosophies and Strategies by Veneranda Mbabazi, Helen Nambalirwa-Nkabala, Dickson Kanakulya, Samson Barigye, Charlotte Karungi Mafumbo, Hilary Kiiza, Umar Serunjogi and Abdu Katende.

He then described working with the late Joseph Bossa on his book Statehood on Trial: Thoughts on the 1966 Uganda Political Crisis as a journey of discovery. “Can you imagine an Acting President of the former ruling party coming to see you all by himself – without a bodyguard or personal assistant?…a UPC leader who can pinpoint faults in Obote’s performance as a political leader and also see some positive traits in Yoweri Museveni’s performance?…Bossa was an enigma! He beat every stereotype and stood out as an independent thinker.”

Statehood on Trial: Thoughts on the 1966 Uganda Political Crisis by Joseph Bossa.
Statehood on Trial: Thoughts on the 1966 Uganda Political Crisis by Joseph Bossa.

Of the next title (Mis) Management of sub-Nationalism and Diversity in “Nations”: The case of Buganda in Uganda, 1979-1980, Dr. Siminyu said, “When you read Dr. Godfrey Asiimwe’s work, you feel like telling the gentleman to stop talking and just concentrate on writing! His writing is so deep and sweet. He looks at what many other authors have already written about and comes up with fresh revelations.”

(Mis) Management of sub-Nationalism and Diversity in “Nations”: The case of Buganda in Uganda, 1979-1980 by Dr. Godfrey Asiimwe.
(Mis) Management of sub-Nationalism and Diversity in “Nations”: The case of Buganda in Uganda, 1979-1980 by Dr. Godfrey Asiimwe.

Dr. Siminyu described Prof. James Kiwanuka-Tondo’s book HIV/AIDS in Uganda: Achievements and Challenges as “another gem that was retrieved from another publisher and given to us as a statement of faith in Makerere and what it is capable of doing… Through these works, James has re-issued some pieces published in world-class journals, making them accessible and affordable for our local readers. This is a model that should be emulated.”

HIV/AIDS in Uganda: Achievements and Challenges edited by Prof. James Kiwanuka-Tondo.
HIV/AIDS in Uganda: Achievements and Challenges edited by Prof. James Kiwanuka-Tondo.

“Can you imagine a Ugandan writing Kiswahili poetry?” pondered Dr. Siminyu with reference to Dr. Innocent Masengo’s Lulu ya Bara (The Pearl of the Continent). “We are waiting to hear what our Kiswahili-speaking regional neighbours will say. They have previously alleged that Kiswahili was born in Tanzania, died in Kenya, and was buried in Uganda.” he humorously added.

Lulu ya Bara by Dr. Innocent Masengo.
Lulu ya Bara by Dr. Innocent Masengo.

Keynote address

In line with the yearlong centenary celebrations, the Keynote address was appropriately titled “100 Years of Scholarly Publishing at Makerere. It was delivered by Prof. J. Robert Ikoja Odongo, a gallant alumnus, former Principal of the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), currently serving as Vice Chancellor of Soroti University. The Keynote Speaker expressed happiness at being back home, where his destiny was shaped.

From the outset, Prof. Ikoja sought to distinguish scholarly publishing from other forms of publishing such as; book publishing, trade publishing, journal publishing, newspaper publishing, magazine publishing, self-publishing and music publishing.

“Scholarly publishing is one branch of publishing that specializes in publishing for an academic and professional or scholarly market or scholarly community and the public with interest in a particular area of research” he said.

Prof. Ikoja further clarified that the outputs of scholarly publishing are researched material that are disseminated in universities, at conferences and during seminars and symposia. Post dissemination, they may be published as proceedings or in refereed journals as articles. He clarified that monographs or books belong to this category.

Chronicling the journey of publishing at over the last 100 years, Prof. Ikoja paid tribute to Sir Philip Mitchell who served as Governor of Uganda from 1935 to 1940, for championing and forecasting Makerere University to be an icon of education in the region and recommending the establishment of the Press. Subsequently, in 1945 a production unit called the Printer was established in the basement of the Main Administration Building and University Managers at the time sent one Yeko Mukasa to Britain, to be equipped with skills to run the Printer.

Following its establishment the Printer began publishing titles such as Commercial law in East Africa by John W. Katende, Medical statistics, Psychiatry, and African indigenous education by Prof. Jakayo Peter Ociti. Prof. Ikoja further cited Professors such as David Rubadiri, Margaret Donohue, George Kanyeihamba, Fredrick Kayanja, John Mbiti, Austin Bukenya, Mahmood Mamdani, Ali Mazrui and Okot p’Bitek among others who wrote and published many books and monographs.

Prof. J. Robert Ikoja Odongo delivers the Keynote Address.
Prof. J. Robert Ikoja Odongo delivers the Keynote Address.

The keynote speaker elaborated that publications by Makerere researchers were done both within the University and abroad. “The reason for outside publishing was political safety in some cases, economic emancipation in some while in others, an inability of Makerere to handle their works internally and on time.”

In particular, Prof. Ikoja pointed to the period between 1940 and 1960 as one of growth of African nationalism, with Makerere becoming a hive of militant students. “African strand of students started a writing scheme from which Makerere harvested many story book manuscripts that were later published including those published under the Crow Press of the East African Literature Bureau.”

Detailing Makerere‘s history of Journals, Prof. Ikoja outlined the; Makerere Medical Journal (MMJ) 1964,  Mawazo 1968,  Makerere Law Journal 1975, Journal of African Religion and Philosophy 1989, East African Journal of Rural Economy, African Crop Science Journal, 1993, Dialogue 1994, African Journal of Peace and Human Rights 1995, Makerere Journal of Higher Education 1998 as evidence that Makerere had been engaged in journal publishing.

Despite this rich and vibrant history, Prof. Ikoja took issue with his Alma Mater’s limited usage of its own books and journals in teaching and research. He nevertheless called for more planning, recognition and enthusiasm to reverse the dominant use of foreign literature. He added that MUP could contribute to solving local problems by publishing well-illustrated manuals for farmers as well as artisans such as welders, builders, etc. and translating these into various local languages.

Furthermore, he called for the enactment of a publications policy to guide planning, financing, and book development among other activities and the elevation of MUP to the status Directorate. The Keynote speaker equally tasked MUP to work closely with the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT) to scope for publishable theses or dissertations.

Prof. Ikoja challenged MUP to work together with other local, regional and international Presses such as; African Book Collective, Southern African Bibliographic Information Network (SABINET) and the Consortium of Uganda University Libraries (CUUL) to develop marketing for Makerere University imprint.

Additionally, he encouraged MUP to; consider co-publishing with Presses on other continents or partner with them to include book reviews in the lists. He reiterated the need for MUP to explore translations as a means expand their market, and take advantage of ICT for e- scholarly publications and online marketing.

Panel discussion

The keynote address was followed by a panel discussion graced by the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Prof. Josephine Ahikire and Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo from the Department of Philosophy, CHUSS.

The Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Prof. Josephine Ahikire.
The Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Prof. Josephine Ahikire.

Moderated by Mr. Isaac Tibasiima from the Department of Literature, CHUSS, the panel discussion was a moment for the College to bask in the spotlight of scholarly publishing, as most of the books to be launched were authored by fellow faculty.

Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo, Department of Philosophy, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS).
Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo, Department of Philosophy, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS).

Key highlights from this session were;

  • The need for Makerere to create demand for knowledge by promoting multidisciplinary publication and content that speaks to all aspects of our human nature, be they spiritual, material, social, philosophical etc.
  • Writers ought to go beyond simply paying attention to producing new knowledge to caring about who is actually reading and making use of it. Academics should also never shy away from promoting their own works
  • The need to examine how favourable our scholar incentive structure is to the book writing and how policies on promotion have contributed to or disincentivised the same.
  • The need to decolonise publication and knowledge production in our promotion processes. Unwarranted extra scrutiny of articles published in local journals during promotion processes pushes authors to publish in international ones that don’t attract as much scrutiny.
  • The need to promote writing in our local languages as a political act. Furthermore, there is need include more of our writers in teaching and research course content as a way of motivating the younger generation to write and expand knowledge in our context
  • The culture of always seeking to go beyond the comforts of what we have achieved, what we know and what is celebrated by our society and peers as true success should be strongly encouraged.
  • It is our responsibility as inheritors to grow the body of knowledge beyond what already exists

Concluding remarks

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) and Chairperson of the MUP Editorial Board, Prof. Umar Kakumba in his remarks sincerely appreciated the authors for having faith in the Press to publish their work. “I am also delighted to note that we have over 40 manuscripts in the pipeline under the Makerere University Press, which is a great sign of confidence in this institution.”

He appreciated the Vice Chancellor for entrusting him and the MUP Editorial Board and staff with the responsibility to promote scholarly publishing. The MUP mandate, he said, is in line with the core thrust of the Makerere Strategic Plan to make the University research-led.

Prof. Umar Kakumba, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) and Chairperson, Makerere University Press (MUP) Editorial Board.
Prof. Umar Kakumba, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) and Chairperson, Makerere University Press (MUP) Editorial Board.

Prof. Kakumba further noted that the cost recovery model employed by MUP unlike the return on investment model employed by other publishing houses would ensure that authors’ publications hit the market at a competitive cost, which will enable more people to purchase and read their works.

Prior to inviting the Chief Guest to officially launch the books, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe expressed great pride at being at the helm of Makerere at a time when the University is progressing towards its goal of being a vibrant research university. He congratulated the authors upon investing time and energy in scholarly publishing and being good role models for other staff.

“My main objective as Vice Chancellor is the emancipation of our people from mental slavery. And so it makes me very happy to see authors beginning to publish about the issues that affect Uganda and Africa” remarked Prof. Nawangwe. He congratulated Prof. Kakumba and the Editorial Board as well as Dr. Siminyu and the MUP staff upon this achievement.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

Prof. Nawangwe challenged the younger generation in the room to always remember that their continent and its people are marginalised. He added that it is the responsibility of youth to fight and overcome the present state of affairs.

The Chief Guest at the Book Launch was the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero, who was represented by Dr. Cosmas Mwikirize, Member of Staff at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) currently serving as the Ministry’s Leader of the Engineering Economy.

Commending the scholars on their impressive publications, the Minister nevertheless warned that the race is far from over if this knowledge does not add value to society, make peoples’ lives better, create a conscious and transformed society, as well as contribute to reorientation of mindsets, value systems and policy.

Hon. Dr. Musenero nevertheless commended Makerere University for establishing a viable Press, which will serve as an example to other Ugandan Universities. “We are proud of the quality of publications that we have witnessed today and we encourage you to do more; it is important that we strive to maintain international quality standards in our scholarly publications.”

Furthermore, she challenged the University to ensure that most of her publications are availed electronically. “A small spark can light a fire and cause conflagration capable of consuming forests of intellectual ignorance. Today, electronic media are the chief enablers of this conflagration.”

Hon. Dr. Musenero concluded by thanking the Vice Chancellor and University Management for nurturing and supporting the spirit of innovation. She expressed the Government’s anticipation to seeing more publications in varied disciplines as well as from beyond the gates of Makerere.

Upon officially launching the nine (9) books, Dr. Mwikirize accompanied by the Vice Chancellor and Members of Management autographed dummies of the books and had a photo moment with the authors and their families. Mr. Tibasiima, assisted by the Principal Public Relations Officer (PRO), Ms. Ritah Namisango moderated the days proceedings.

Mak Editor

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Makerere University Welcomes 2026/2027 Freshers

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Makerere University has officially welcomed the 2026/2027 cohort of freshers, urging them to pursue academic excellence, uphold integrity, embrace diversity and make the most of the opportunities available throughout their university journey.

The opening of Orientation Week, held at the Freedom Square on Monday, 3rd August 2026, brought together University leaders, staff and thousands of newly admitted students. Throughout the event, speakers emphasized academic discipline, personal responsibility, leadership, student welfare and the values that have defined Makerere University for over a century.

Academic Registrar Welcomes Freshers

Delivering his remarks, the Academic Registrar, Prof. Mukadasi Muyinza, congratulated the freshers upon their admission and welcomed them into Makerere University’s long standing tradition of scholarship, research and innovation.

He reminded the students that joining Makerere University marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives; one in which they would take full responsibility for shaping their future.

Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza giving his speech at the freshers orientation.

“Your arrival at Makerere marks a new chapter in your own life. This chapter is different because now you have the opportunity to determine the direction of your own story.”

Prof. Muyinza encouraged students to actively participate in academic activities, complete assignments on time and uphold integrity throughout their studies.

He cautioned against examination malpractice, forgery and other forms of academic misconduct, emphasizing that such offences could lead to dismissal from the University.

The Academic Registrar also stressed the importance of completing registration within the prescribed period, reminding students that admission remains provisional until registration requirements have been fulfilled.

“Technically, you are not yet students until you register.”

He further guided students on programme changes, registration procedures, and tuition payment requirements and urged them to carefully read the University’s Joining Instructions.

Beyond academics, Prof. Muyinza advised students to exercise financial discipline, avoid online scams and make responsible personal decisions while adjusting to university life.

Dean of Students Highlights Student Welfare

The Dean of Students, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, briefed freshers on accommodation, health services, and feeding, spiritual welfare and leadership opportunities available at the University.

She advised students seeking off campus accommodation to choose only accredited private hostels approved by the University.

Dean of students, Dr. Winnie Kabumbuli giving her remarks.

“Please make sure you choose a hostel that is safe, comfortable and closer to campus.”

Dr. Kabumbuli also encouraged students to open medical files at the University Hospital instead of self-medicating whenever they fall ill.

“Don’t ignore illness. Don’t self-prescribe. Go for proper medical attention through the University Hospital.”

She urged students to participate in spiritual fellowship through the University’s places of worship and to embrace leadership opportunities available at class, hall and college levels.

Welcoming international students, Dr. Kabumbuli noted that Makerere University has admitted more than 800 international students from 55 countries across five continents, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to providing an inclusive learning environment.

A congregation of student leaders and freshers in the Freedom Square.

Former Guild President Shares His Makerere Journey

Hon. Lawrence Ariong Dangote, inspired the freshers through his personal story, recalling how he joined Makerere University in 2019 as a young student from Arua “with an empty pocket and a bag full of dreams.”

He described Makerere as “the hill of endless possibilities” and challenged students to maximize every opportunity available during their university life.

Former 88th Guild President of Makerere University Hon. Lawrence Alionzi (Dangote) delivering his speech.

“The answer to whether you reach the top of the hill lies in what you do between now and the day you graduate.”

Drawing lessons from his own experience, Dangote cautioned students against peer pressure, financial recklessness and online investment scams, encouraging them to choose friends wisely and remain focused on their academic goals.

“Hard work beats talent if talent does not learn to work hard.”

Academic Registrar Clarifies Registration Process

Returning to the podium, Prof. Muyinza clarified registration procedures, programme change guidelines and admission requirements.

He reminded students that failure to register within the stipulated period would result in forfeiture of admission.

Prof. Mukadasi (center), Dean of Students Dr. Winnie Kabumbuli, and members of staff during the freshers’ orientation.

“Registration is the most important step that will determine whether you become a university student or not.”

He also advised students seeking programme changes to ensure they meet the required cut-off points and available vacancies before submitting applications.

Prof. Sarah Ssali Calls for Excellence and Integrity

Closing the orientation, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, who represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, officially welcomed the freshers to Makerere University.

Beginning her remarks, Prof. Ssali asked students admitted to the Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences to identify themselves before revealing that she too had studied the same programme.

Using her own experience, she reminded students that every academic programme offered by the University is valuable.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, delivering her remarks

“Every course matters. Whatever you have been given, do it as if your life depends on it.”

She congratulated the incoming students, she describing their admission as the beginning of a transformative journey that would prepare them to become responsible citizens and future leaders.

“Your achievement reflects your hard work, determination and potential, and we are delighted that you have chosen Makerere University as the next step in your academic journey.”

Prof. Ssali reminded students that every academic programme matters and encouraged them to pursue excellence regardless of the course they had been admitted to.

“Whatever you have been given, do it as if your life depends on it.”

She reassured students that Makerere remains committed to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment through academic staff, the Dean of Students’ Office, counselling services, student leaders and other support units.

She particularly encouraged students facing personal or academic challenges to seek help whenever necessary.

Prof. Ssali reaffirmed the University’s zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment and exploitation.

“Do not suffer silently. Raise your voice. We have zero tolerance for sexual harassment and exploitation of students.”

Encouraging students to engage beyond the classroom, she urged them to participate in research, innovation, sports, leadership, community engagement and international programmes that complement academic learning.

She also called upon students to reject examination malpractice, plagiarism, violence, substance abuse and all forms of misconduct that undermine the University’s values.

“University education is not only about earning a degree; it is about developing the knowledge, character, values and competences required to make a meaningful contribution to society.”

As she concluded, Prof. Ssali challenged the freshers to think about the legacy they wished to leave behind at Makerere University.

“Pursue a life of excellence. Take ownership of your learning, build strong networks and make the most of every opportunity the University offers.”

The 2026/2027 Orientation Week continues with college based sessions that will introduce freshers to academic programmes, registration processes, student support services and university life before the commencement of the new academic year.

Allan Ainematsiko

My name is Ainematsiko Allan. I am a student of Makerere University and currently in my final year. I am pursuing a Bachelors in Journalism and Communication.

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Makerere Graduate Training Directorate Unveils Ambitious Five-Year Strategic Roadmap

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Director of the Directorate of Graduate Training, Prof. Julius Kikooma (C) with his staff at the Retreat. Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) Makerere University three-day strategic planning retreat, July 29–31, 2026, Royal Suites Hotel, Bugolobi, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Moses Lutaaya

The Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) at Makerere University has set an ambitious course for the next five years after a three-day strategic planning retreat held at Royal Suites Hotel, Bugolobi, from July 29–31, 2026. The retreat brought together staff, officials from the Directorate of Planning and invited facilitators to review the Directorate’s performance, identify challenges and opportunities, and develop a strategic plan that aligns with Makerere University‘s vision of becoming a research-led institution.

Opening the retreat, the Director of the Directorate of Graduate Training, Prof. Julius Kikooma, reminded staff that the Directorate occupies a central position in the implementation of Makerere University‘s Strategic Plan and must therefore position itself to deliver measurable results.

Prof. Kikooma said one of the University’s key strategic priorities is to increase graduate student enrolment and improve graduate completion rates, making the Directorate’s work more critical than ever before.

He explained that under the University’s Strategic Plan, graduate education is expected to grow significantly over the next five years, with graduate students projected to constitute about 40 per cent of the University’s total enrolment by 2030.

“It is not enough to simply increase admissions,” Prof. Kikooma said. “Our responsibility is to ensure that the students we admit are supported to complete their programmes on time. Graduate completion rates are now one of the University’s strategic priorities.”

He noted that while graduate enrolment is expected to increase substantially, completion rates must also improve if the University is to achieve its research-led aspirations.

The Director emphasized that the Directorate must move beyond reporting admission figures and instead closely monitor student progression from admission through graduation using the Research Information Management System (RIMS). He said the system would enable the University to track every graduate student throughout their academic journey and generate reliable data for planning and decision-making.

Prof. Julius Kikooma. Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) Makerere University three-day strategic planning retreat, July 29–31, 2026, Royal Suites Hotel, Bugolobi, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Julius Kikooma.

Prof. Kikooma challenged staff to embrace the system fully, warning that inaccurate or outdated information compromises the University’s reporting to management and Council.

“We must ensure that the information we present is clean, accurate and reflects active graduate students. RIMS is no longer optional; it is central to how we monitor graduate training and account for our performance.”

He revealed that academic staff supervising graduate students would increasingly be required to demonstrate active use of RIMS before receiving administrative clearance, a move intended to improve accountability and strengthen graduate student tracking.

The Director also highlighted operational challenges facing the Directorate, particularly during peak admission periods when staff experience overwhelming workloads.

He encouraged staff to embrace teamwork and support one another beyond their designated responsibilities whenever the Directorate faces periods of high demand.

“When it’s admissions peak, the pressure belongs to all of us. Even those whose primary roles are elsewhere should step in because we are one Directorate,” he said.

Prof. Kikooma further stressed the importance of proper planning, timely resource mobilization and continuous staff development, noting that changing technologies and administrative systems require continuous learning and capacity building.

“The way we succeeded yesterday cannot guarantee our success tomorrow. We must continue building our skills because the demands of graduate administration keep changing,” he observed.

As the retreat progressed, participants held intensive discussions on institutional priorities, performance targets, work planning, policy implementation and strategies for improving service delivery across the Directorate.

Delivering his closing remarks, Prof. Kikooma expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the retreat, saying the Directorate had successfully reflected on the key issues that will shape its future.

“I’m happy that we have reached this moment. We had a very tight programme, but I believe we have touched on everything we intended to discuss. Some of the messages have encouraged us, while others have provided practical and technical guidance on improving the way we work,” he said.

He urged staff to return to their offices and translate the lessons from the retreat into practical improvements in service delivery.

Prof. Kikooma thanked the organizing committee for ensuring the retreat became a reality despite earlier uncertainties and acknowledged the contribution of the facilitators, especially colleagues from the Directorate of Planning.

He particularly commended Dr. Christine Amito for her commitment and technical guidance in developing the Directorate’s strategic plan, describing her as instrumental in ensuring that the Directorate’s priorities remain aligned with the University’s overall strategic direction.

Dr. Christine Amito. Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) Makerere University three-day strategic planning retreat, July 29–31, 2026, Royal Suites Hotel, Bugolobi, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Christine Amito.

He also recognized the contributions of newly assigned planning staff whose early involvement had already strengthened the Directorate’s planning processes.

The Director applauded the graduate interns attached to the Directorate for the valuable support they provided during their placement.

“The work you have done has been real work that would ordinarily have been done by employed staff. Beyond your academic training, I hope you have also learnt the soft skills that are essential in every workplace,” he said.

Prof. Kikooma disclosed that the retreat marked only the beginning of the Directorate’s strategic planning process, noting that the resolutions would be compiled into a comprehensive report for discussion by the Directorate’s management before implementation.

He assured staff that recommendations requiring higher-level consideration would be forwarded to the relevant University authorities.

“The University is banking very much on what we do in graduate training to achieve its vision of becoming a research-led university. Admissions, graduate student tracking, policy development and graduate completion are all at the heart of that agenda.”

The Director also announced that the Directorate would institutionalize a culture of recognizing staff members for their dedicated service.

He observed that employees spend most of their lives in the workplace and therefore deserve appreciation from the institutions they serve.

“As a Directorate, we want everyone who has worked with us to know that they remain part of the DGT family. We are a winning team, but a winning team must also be a happy team.”

One of the emotional moments of the retreat came when the Directorate honoured its former Head of Registry, Ms. Prossy Nakayiki, with a special gift in recognition of her outstanding service and contribution to graduate training.

Prof. Julius Kikooma (L) with Ms. Prossy Nakayiiki ( Deputy AR). Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) Makerere University three-day strategic planning retreat, July 29–31, 2026, Royal Suites Hotel, Bugolobi, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Julius Kikooma (L) with Ms. Prossy Nakayiiki ( Deputy AR).

Receiving the award, Ms. Nakayiki thanked the Directorate for remembering her, saying the recognition affirmed that dedication and integrity are eventually rewarded.

“I take it at heart that when you do well, you are appreciated,” she said.

She recounted her professional journey from joining the then Directorate of Research and Graduate Studies as an admissions officer, rising through the ranks to head the Directorate’s Registry before her appointment as Deputy Academic Registrar in charge of Examinations, Transcripts and Graduation.

Ms. Nakayiki encouraged staff to remain committed to excellent customer care, urging them to treat every student with empathy and professionalism.

“When serving a student, think of that student as your own child. Even when you cannot provide an immediate answer, communicate honestly and assure them when you will be able to help. Our work is about service.”

She attributed the Directorate’s earlier achievements to teamwork, clearly defined responsibilities and effective communication among staff.

She advised employees to understand their roles, support one another and resolve workplace misunderstandings through open communication rather than conflict.

“Our supervisors can only succeed if we, the foot soldiers, perform our responsibilities well. Let us continue working together for the good of the Directorate and for the success of every graduate student who walks through our doors.”

The retreat ended with renewed commitment from staff to implement the Directorate’s five-year strategic plan and strengthen graduate training as a key pillar in advancing Makerere University‘s research excellence agenda.

Mak Editor

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Undergraduate Admission Lists 2026/2027

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Students in discussion groups at Freedom Square.

The Office of Academic Registrar, Makerere University has released admission lists of candidates admitted under the Talented Sports Men & Women, Disability and District Quota Schemes with Government sponsorship 2026/27 Academic Year including appeals and remarked cases.

Other admission lists released include A-Level Applicants with Ugandan and those with Foreign Qualifications, Diploma in Performing Arts, Mature-Age Entry and Bachelor of Education (EXTERNAL Batch 2) for the Academic Year 2026/2027 under self sponsorship.

The cut-off points points can be accessed by following the link: https://mak.ac.ug/study-mak/cut-points

Kindly follow the links below to access the lists:-

Update 3rd August 2026

Update 27th July 2026

Government and Private Sponsorship list

Update 3rd July 2026

International & East African Applicants

Mop-up Lists

Mak Editor

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