Connect with us

Agriculture & Environment

CAES Mentorship Programme to Enhance Capacity of Young Scientists in Agricultural Policy Processes

Published

2 years ago

on

The Mentors led by Prof. Bernard Bashaasha (Front: 3rd L) with their mentees and policy analysts after the workshop on 2nd August 2022, SFTNB Conference Hall, Makerere University.
The Mentors led by Prof. Bernard Bashaasha (Front: 3rd L) with their mentees and policy analysts after the workshop on 2nd August 2022, SFTNB Conference Hall, Makerere University.

The programme titled, “Enhancing the Capacity of Young Scientists to Engage in Agricultural and Food Security Policy Processes in East Africa” seeks to improve connection between science, policy and practice

Funder: Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

Overview

Agriculture is a key economic sector in the East African Region and it is an important source of livelihood for households and communities, especially in rural areas. Efforts to achieve food security and desirable nutrition outcomes, as well as spur economic growth largely revolve around the agricultural and environmental sectors. The role of these two sectors in achieving the first and second Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that focus on ending poverty and hunger respectively has been recognised in many continental, regional and national agricultural initiatives. Yet identifying and implementing enabling policies and evaluating their impact remains a challenge to the development and protection of the two sectors in most African countries. Africa’s continental framework for promotion of agricultural transformation, the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), recognizes and emphasizes the need to strengthen capabilities and the policy and institutional environment required to trigger agricultural transformation while protecting the environment. The process includes interventions to strengthen the capacity for evidence-based planning, implementation and review, and to increase the capacity to generate, analyse and use relevant information and innovations.

The Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga delivering her remarks.
The Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga delivering her remarks.

About the project

Through a project titled“Enhancing the Capacity of Young Scientists to Engage in Agricultural and Food Security Policy Processes in East Africa”, the Department of Agribusiness and Natural Resource Economics, College of Agricultural and environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University together with Kyambogo University, Busitema University, and the Department of Agricultural Economics at the University of Nairobi have mentored 13 PhD graduates – 8 in Uganda and 5 in Kenya. Supported by the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences under the leadership of Prof. Bernard Bashaasha, the project aims to increase the capacity of scientists to synthesize, analyse and communicate science with different stakeholders; increase use of science-based knowledge in policies & practice; and improve connection between science, policy and practice. The mentees include; Dr Florence Lwiza from the Department of Agribusiness and Natural Resource Economics, CAES; Dr Betty Christine Nagawa from the Department of Forestry, Bio-Diversity and Tourism, CAES; Dr Kanifa Kamatara from the Department of Agricultural Production, CAES; Dr Catherine Ndagire from the Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, CAES; and Dr Kellen Aganyira from the College of Education and External Studies, Makerere University. Others are Dr Margaret Namugwanya Misinde; and Dr Judith Nagasha from Kyambogo University. The mentors include; Prof. Bernard Bashaasha from Makerere University; Dr Peter Opio from Busitema University and Dr Faith Muyonga from Kyambogo University.

The Coordinator of the programme, Prof. Bernard Bashaasha delivering his remarks at the workshop.
The Coordinator of the programme, Prof. Bernard Bashaasha delivering his remarks at the workshop.

Policy workshop held at Makerere University

On 2nd August 2022, the project partners held a workshop at Makerere University to discuss and receive feedback from policy analysts on 7 policy briefs developed by the mentees. In the policy briefs, the mentees made a number of recommendations in relation to building resilience to extreme weather changes through index-agricultural insurance,the use of eucalyptus essential oils as an alternative to the commonly used synthetic pesticides in preservation of stored grains, quality-based classification scheme for beef carcasses as an incentive for beef cattle producers, conservation farming as a strategic solution to climate change challenges, the use of farmyard manure as a potential booster of macro and micronutrients in crops, building women’s capacity in value addition in a bid to increase their incomes, and the need to support school children and adolescents in Kampala to meet sedentary behaviour and physical activity guidelines.

Some of the mentees and participants following the proceedings.
Some of the mentees and participants following the proceedings.

Policy recommendations by the Mentees

  1. Building resilience to extreme weather changes through index-based agricultural insurance

In her research, Dr Florence Lwiza from the Department of Agribusiness and Natural Resource Economics, CAES notes that despite efforts by the Government of Uganda to promote Index-based Insurance which has potential to mitigate weather-induced effects, uptake of agricultural insurance among smallholder farmers remains low. To increase uptake,the researcher recommends,i) increase in financial literacy to enable farmers to better understand the value of agricultural insurance, ii) expansion of investments in high-quality agro-meteorological data- data crucial for informing investment decisions, iii) gender considerations- encouragement of women and youth participation in agricultural insurance markets, iv) increased access to information on changes in farmer behaviour, v) flexible design of contracts- promoters should consider the heterogeneity in farmer characteristics, risk exposure and risk preferences and therefore design contracts to suit their specific resources, needs and characteristics.

Dr. Florence Lwiza called for an increase in financial literacy for farmers to understand and appreciate the value of agricultural insurance.
Dr. Florence Lwiza called for an increase in financial literacy for farmers to understand and appreciate the value of agricultural insurance.
  1. The use of eucalyptus essential oils as an alternative to the commonly used synthetic pesticides in preservation of stored grains

According to Dr Betty Christine Nagawa from the Department of Forestry, Bio-Diversity and Tourism, CAES post-harvest handling and storage remains a challenge in Uganda. Shortage of standard and modern storage facilities reduces the shelf life of agricultural produce hence posing threats of food insecurity. Many farmers resort to pesticides to preserve their produce. However, the use of pesticides poses risks of chronic illnesses such as cancer. In a bid to minimise the use of pesticides, Dr Nagawa recommends the use of eucalyptus essential oils as a strategy to reduce on pest infestation in stored grain. This, she notes, requires conservation of eucalyptus trees species capable of obtaining oil at individual, community and district levels, and the establishment of cottage industries to support distillation of eucalyptus oil.

Dr. Betty Christine Nagawa recommended the use of eucalyptus essential oils as a strategy to reduce on pest infestation in stored grain.
Dr. Betty Christine Nagawa recommended the use of eucalyptus essential oils as a strategy to reduce on pest infestation in stored grain.
  1. Quality-based classification scheme for beef carcasses as an incentive for beef cattle producers

In its current form, the grading scheme offers no incentive to producers since carcasses are priced based on weights rather than on distinctively

differentiated quality classes. Dr Kanifa Kamatara from the Department of Agricultural Production, CAES calls for mandatory grading of carcasses at all slaughter houses just like inspection. She also recommends revision in the current classification scheme – attributes such as primal cut yield prediction and tenderness should be included to the classification criteria. She calls for adoption of objective classification technologies to improve accuracy.

Dr. Kanifa Kamatara called for a quality-based classification scheme for beef carcasses as an incentive for beef cattle producers.
Dr. Kanifa Kamatara called for a quality-based classification scheme for beef carcasses as an incentive for beef cattle producers.
  1. Empower Farmers to Gain from Conservation Farming

As farmers grapple with land shortage and climate change challenges, conservation farming offers the opportunity to increase food production and food security. In her policy brief, Dr Kellen Aganyira recommends empowerment of farmers through extension services, affordable farm inputs, vermin control and access to competitive market. According to her research, farmers do not practice conservation farming due to the high cost of inputs, lack of market for their produce, and uncontrolled vermin that destroy crops. She also calls on the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) in collaboration with the private sector to support farmers with subsidized farm inputs. She implores the government through the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives to link farmers to competitive markets, and to strengthen vermin control systems.

Dr. Kellen Aganyira from the College of Education and External Studies, Makerere is one of the mentees on the programme.
Dr. Kellen Aganyira from the College of Education and External Studies, Makerere is one of the mentees on the programme.
  1. Pig Manure, a Promising Option for Improving the Nutritional Value of Beans

Nutrient deficiency remains a serious public health threat as many households in low developing countries may not be in position to regularly afford foods rich in protein and micronutrients.  Three-quarters of children 6-59 months old and 50% of women of reproductive age have severe micronutrient deficiency, resulting into impaired mental development and deaths. Due to high nutritional content (proteins, vitamins and micronutrients – zinc and iron), beans can play a big role in food and nutrition security for the poor. According to Dr Margaret Namugwanya Misinde from Kyambogo University, the nutrient content in bean seeds can be improved by combining farm yard pig manure with manufactured phosphorus fertilizers such as triple supper phosphate. The use of pig manure in combination with super phosphate for bean production is a sustainable strategy to improve protein and micronutrient intake for poor households, which cannot afford diversified diets. Farmers should therefore be sensitized and supported to adopt the practice.

Dr. Margaret Namugwanya Misinde from Kyambogo University recommended the use of pig manure as an option for improving the nutritional value of beans.
Dr. Margaret Namugwanya Misinde from Kyambogo University recommended the use of pig manure as an option for improving the nutritional value of beans.
  1. Sedentary behaviour and physical activity guidelines

According to research conducted by Dr Catherine Ndagire from the Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, Makerere University, a small proportion of school children and adolescents meet sedentary behaviour and physical activity guidelines.

46% of school children and adolescents spent excessive time in sedentary behaviours. To reverse this, Dr Ndagire points to the need for schools to give students access to a wide range of activities. Schools need to design and renovate play grounds so that they can inspire play, movement and sports. The Ministry of Education and Sports should support a community-wide comprehensive physical activity campaign that provides education and opportunities directly to children and adolescents in schools.

Dr. Catherine Ndagire from the Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, Makerere University is also one of the mentees on the project.
Dr. Catherine Ndagire from the Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, Makerere University is also one of the mentees on the project.
  1. Building women’s capacity on value addition for increased income

According to research conducted by Dr Judith Nagasha from Kyambogo University, women play a significant role in activities related to animal husbandry and dairy production. However, a lot of milk is wasted due to poor knowledge on safe production methods and appropriate storage facilities.  Building their capacity on how to add value by refining the milk into products such as yogurt, butter, ghee, cheese and cosmetics that can be sold at a higher price can enhance their income.

Dr. Judith Nagasha from Kyambogo University presenting her research on building women’s capacity on value addition for increased income.
Dr. Judith Nagasha from Kyambogo University presenting her research on building women’s capacity on value addition for increased income.
Dr. Peter Opio from Busitema University is one of the mentors on the project.
Dr. Peter Opio from Busitema University is one of the mentors on the project.
Dr. Faith Muyonga from Kyambogo University is a mentor on the project.
Dr. Faith Muyonga from Kyambogo University is a mentor on the project.

Feedback from Policy analysts

The event was graced by a number of policy analysts who provided enriching feedback on the briefs. These included officers from the Office of the President; Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development; Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries; USAID; Water Resources Institute, and the Economic Policy Research Centre. The analysts cautioned policy developers to always avoid technical terms and to keep them precise, with recommendations that directly address community challenges. They also noted the importance of directly addressing the briefs to relevant bodies.

Martin Fowler, Senior Agriculture Advisor at USAID Uganda commenting on the policy briefs.
Martin Fowler, Senior Agriculture Advisor at USAID Uganda commenting on the policy briefs.

Principal’s remarks

In her remarks, the Principal, CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga applauded all partnering institutions for the timely initiative. “For Uganda, this initiative cements Makerere University’s role to support and mentor the new universities in the country.” Prof. Nabanoga acknowledged the efforts and commitment of the mentors to build a new cadre of policy influence ambassadors. She thanked the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences for the funding and continued collaboration with Makerere University, and specifically CAES.

An official from MAAIF addressing participants.
An official from MAAIF addressing participants.

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Agriculture & Environment

Mak-CAES Skills Agro-processors on Quality Standards

Published

2 weeks ago

on

April 12, 2024

By

Some of the trained Agro-processors with the representative of the VC, Prof. Edward Bbaale (4th L), the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga (3rd L) and the Dean, SFTNB, Dr. Julia Kigozi (4th R) at the workshop on 9th April 2024. “Empowerment of the Agro-Processing Industry to meet the Quantity and Quality for Local and Export Market (EAPI Phase II)” Mak-RIF-Funded Project dissemination of outputs and sharing insights, best practices and success stories from the trained processors and students, 9th April 2024, The Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-engineering, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Overview

Agriculture has long been the backbone of Uganda’s economy, and the agro-processing industry plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth, job creation, and export earnings. Agro-processing is a key component of Uganda’s manufacturing sector accounting for almost 70% of total manufacturing output while manufacturing itself has accounted for approximately 8% of GDP over the last decade (Uganda Bureau of Statistics). However, many Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in this sector face significant challenges in meeting quality standards, accessing markets, and adopting best practices.

The Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga delivering her remarks at the workshop. “Empowerment of the Agro-Processing Industry to meet the Quantity and Quality for Local and Export Market (EAPI Phase II)” Mak-RIF-Funded Project dissemination of outputs and sharing insights, best practices and success stories from the trained processors and students, 9th April 2024, The Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-engineering, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga delivering her remarks at the workshop.

Makerere University’s contribution to the development of the sector

To contribute towards the improvement of the sector in Uganda, the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-engineering (SFTNB) at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, through a project titled; “Empowerment of the Agro-Processing Industry to meet the Quantity and Quality for Local and Export Market (EAPI Phase II)” has embarked on a transformative journey to empower agro-processors through practical skills training, mentorship, and support.

The Director, Directorate of Research and Graduate Training at Makerere University-Prof. Edward Bbaale (Standing), on behalf of the Vice Chancellor commended the project team for the initiative. “Empowerment of the Agro-Processing Industry to meet the Quantity and Quality for Local and Export Market (EAPI Phase II)” Mak-RIF-Funded Project dissemination of outputs and sharing insights, best practices and success stories from the trained processors and students, 9th April 2024, The Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-engineering, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Director, Directorate of Research and Graduate Training at Makerere University-Prof. Edward Bbaale (Standing), on behalf of the Vice Chancellor commended the project team for the initiative.

EAPI is a multi-year project conceptualized under the guiding principles of Makerere University Strategic Plan, which emphasizes research excellence, community engagement, and innovation. It is funded by the Government of Uganda through Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF). According to the project PI, Dr Julia Kigozi, achieving the country’s industrialization agenda requires interventions to enhance the capacity of agro-processors to compete in the domestic, regional and international markets. The project which is now in its second phase uses the modified Triple Helix Partnership model; The Agro-processing Pro-model in which Academia-Industry-Government interact jointly to serve the needs of the Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) and is coordinated by a team comprising of Academic staff at Makerere University and industry leaders from UNBS and UEPB.

The event featured a panel discussion on issues affecting the agro-processing industry. “Empowerment of the Agro-Processing Industry to meet the Quantity and Quality for Local and Export Market (EAPI Phase II)” Mak-RIF-Funded Project dissemination of outputs and sharing insights, best practices and success stories from the trained processors and students, 9th April 2024, The Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-engineering, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The event featured a panel discussion on issues affecting the agro-processing industry.

The direct beneficiaries of the project are agro-processors and Makerere University students in the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio- engineering. In July 2023, the project graduated 35 students from the School, and in February 2024, Makerere University-SFTNB in partnership with UNBS, UEPB and Uganda Revenue Authority trained 22 Agro-processors to enable them develop and improve agro-manufacturing processes leading to products that meet quality standards and where possible expand their business operations to local and export markets. The processors were mainly manufacturers of juices, dairy products, spices, and pastries with facilities located in Kampala/Greater Kampala area and Wakiso, Jinja, Mpigi, Mityana, Kabaale, Gulu, and Nwoya Districts.

Dr. Leatitiah Namubiru from UNBS sensitizing participants on the process of certification. “Empowerment of the Agro-Processing Industry to meet the Quantity and Quality for Local and Export Market (EAPI Phase II)” Mak-RIF-Funded Project dissemination of outputs and sharing insights, best practices and success stories from the trained processors and students, 9th April 2024, The Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-engineering, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Leatitiah Namubiru from UNBS sensitizing participants on the process of certification.

Project dissemination workshop

On 9th April 2024, the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-engineering held a workshop to disseminate the project outputs and to share insights, best practices and success stories from the trained processors and students. The event held at Makerere University featured a panel discussion involving agro-processors as well as representatives from line departments who shared experiences and the challenges affecting the sector. Key amongst the challenges highlighted was the bureaucratic process of acquiring certification and the heavy taxes imposed on the processors.

Message from the Vice Chancellor

In his message delivered by Prof. Edward Bbaale, Director, Research and Graduate Training at Makerere University, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe commended the project team for the achievements registered. “This project epitomizes the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and excellence that defines Makerere University. It has demonstrated the power of collaboration, innovation, and community engagement in driving positive change and fostering inclusive growth. Moving forward, let us continue to harness our collective strengths and expertise to address the evolving challenges in the agro-processing sector.” The Vice Chancellor further noted that the project had exemplified the University’s commitment to student-centered learning and practical skills development. “By actively involving undergraduate students from the School of Food Technology, Nutrition, and Bio-engineering in mentorship activities, we not only enhanced their academic experience but also provided them with valuable real-world insights and opportunities for professional growth.” He appreciated the Government of Uganda for the enormous support towards research at Makerere University.

The PI, also Dean, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-engineering at Makerere, Dr Julia Kigozi (L) together with another member of staff at the workshop. “Empowerment of the Agro-Processing Industry to meet the Quantity and Quality for Local and Export Market (EAPI Phase II)” Mak-RIF-Funded Project dissemination of outputs and sharing insights, best practices and success stories from the trained processors and students, 9th April 2024, The Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-engineering, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The PI, also Dean, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-engineering at Makerere, Dr Julia Kigozi (L) together with another member of staff at the workshop.

Addressing participants, the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga applauded the project team for the initiative, noting that the College was intentional on co-creating processes that would support the growth of the agricultural sector. “As a College, we have a role to contribute to the National Development Agenda. Much as we have done research, there is little knowledge transfer. Our goal is to link all departments to industry and to re-orient students to change their mind-set through a learner-centred approach geared towards solving specific challenges. We commit to continue providing the necessary knowledge to take agro-processors to the next level, and to engage the private sector to co-create solutions for challenges undermining development in our country.”

Continue Reading

Agriculture & Environment

Two Slots For Student Study Exchange Programme at University of Padova, Italy

Published

3 weeks ago

on

April 5, 2024

By

Makerere University Students arrive at the Bigodi Community Tourism Project Centre in Kamwenge District, adjacent to Kibaale National Park on 3rd May 2023.

Agreement Overview

An inter-institutional cooperation agreement was signed between the University of Padova, Italy and the Makerere University, Uganda, under the umbrella of the Erasmus+ mobility program. This agreement includes a bi-lateral exchange of teaching staff and students aimed at sharing knowledge and technologies, to explore the degree to which invasive alien plants are modifying the ecosystem services provided by complex agricultural and forest landscapes, using invasive trees as model species. Researchers at the University of Padova have explored the biodiversity of several ecosystem components, and related functions of woodlands composed of important alien trees (the black locust tree – Robinia pseudoacacia) in several biomes of Europe. This tree is spreading due to historical plantation and recent land use changes. The impacts brought by this tree are contrasting and not straightforward, particularly when analyzed from different perspectives. We expect that similar patterns could exist, currently or in the near future, in several regions of Uganda. The research will also investigate how changing landscapes and related ecological processes, as a result of plant invasion, affect the ecotourism opportunities and the aesthetics of tourism destinations with specific focus on Ruboni Community Camp and Rwenzori Mountains National Park. We believe that this cooperation could help in the understanding of this phenomenon and explain how different stakeholders perceive the novel values that come with invasive alien trees.

Student study exchange opportunity in Italy

The ERASMUS + International Credit Mobility Programme (KA171) will support two students for year 2024 for study exchange programme in Italy at the University of Padova, Department of Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry. The exchange programme targets Masters or PhD students in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at Makerere University who have finished their first year of study for Masters or fully Registered for PhD. Prospective students must be ready to do research on topics related to the major focus of the agreement i.e. Forestry (forest soils) and Ecosystem services (agroecosystems, landscapes and tourism). They should have skills in processing of data on soil and social data analysis. Masters Students should have normal progress in their coursework. Together with University of Padova team supervised by Professor Tommaso Sitzia, successful applicants will attend term courses, attend field excursions with other students and get involved in analysis of soil samples and social data collected from Ruboni Community at the foothills of Rwenzori Mountains. The travel and stay in Italy will take a period of about 4 months.

Benefits

The exchange programme will cover travel expenses to and from Italy, living costs and accommodation while in Italy.

Expected deliverables from the student

Upon securing this opportunity, the students will be required to;

  1. Analysis of soil samples and social data (agroforestry tourism)
  2. Analysis of data collected from tourists on agroforestry landscapes in Mubuku Valley and drafting of manuscript (to be collected between May and August, 2024)
  3. Participate in term courses and excursions with Forestry Science students
  4. Attend workshops and make presentations on their research activities
  5. Any other study activities related to the research topics of the study group

Criteria

Interested candidates should submit their application to the Departmental Flow Co-ordinator, Makerere University. Include a detailed CV, testimonial showing current progress, copy of admission letter, a letter of motivation, a recommendation letter, copies of the academic documents. Applications must be submitted by 22, April, 2024 to: kamunyu.muhwezi@gmail.com, copied to deus.muhwezi@mak.ac.ug. Female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply. Only applications that include ALL the required documentation (highlighted above) will be considered. Successful applicants will be called for oral interviews. Successful applicants will be nominated to the exchange programme by the Departmental Flow Co-ordinator at Makerere University by 30th April, 2024. The final decision on admission and subsequently acquiring the study exchange opportunity will depend on fulfilment of the requirements for admission for exchange at University of Padova.

Contact details for further information
Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi
Department of Forestry, Biodiversity and Tourism,
Makerere University
kamunyu.muhwezi@gmail.com

Factsheet_Erasmus_KA171_2024_25Download
Advert-for-student-exchange-ERASMUSDownload

Continue Reading

Agriculture & Environment

PhD Scholarship Opportunities on the ‘Agroforestry for People, Ecosystems and Climate (AfPEC) Project’

Published

1 month ago

on

March 20, 2024

By

The School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences (SFEGS) as seen at dusk from the St. Augustine Chapel parking lot, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda. Date taken: 3rd September 2017.

Makerere University, through the Department of Environmental Management, and the Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Climatic Sciences, and in collaboration with the universities, Aarhus University and University of Copenhagen of Denmark, is implementing a DANIDA funded project ‘Agroforestry for People, Ecosystems and Climate (AfPEC) (2024 – 2029), (https://afpec.info/about-afpec/). AfPEC aims to document the potential of agroforestry in arabica coffee farming for ecosystem goods and services, improved livelihoods and long-term sustainable development on the fragile Mount Elgon Ecosystem in Eastern Uganda.

The overall outcome of AfPEC will be a deeper understanding of the realized and potential future benefits of agroforestry in highland arabica coffee cultivation.

Considering the importance of coffee production in Uganda, and the international demand for sustainable quality coffee, there is a high need for applied and accessible research on agroforestry coffee production.

To this end, this project is now inviting suitable candidates to apply for 4 competitive PhD scholarships covering the following research themes.

Theme 1: Ecosystem services

Collection and analysis of quantitative empirical data to document the impact of agroforestry on ecosystem services, especially biodiversity, carbon storage and climate mitigation, but also other ecosystem services such as soil quality, nitrogen fixation, erosion, shade, water retention and pest control. A combination of biological, socioeconomic and ethnobiological data will be collected.

Two PhD students will be involved:

  1. One will focus on biodiversity and other ecosystem services, and
  2. The other one, will focus focus on climate adaptation and mitigation

Theme 2: Livelihoods and stewardship

Collection and analyses of empirical data on different agroforestry-based livelihoods and value chains, including income from coffee production. The livelihood analysis will include baseline scenarios, scope and barrier analysis (https://www.planvivo.org/baseline-scenario). These will be followed up by a well-developed process for monitoring value addition from improved agroforestry systems, business development and organizational strengthening https://www.forestsoftheworld.org/files/MRV2021en.pdf. Gender and youth aspects will be assessed for all livelihood and value chain analyses.

Two PhD fellowships are advertised under this theme:

  1. One PhD will focus on livelihood benefits and value chains, and
  2. The other one on incentives to promote stewardship and motivation, participatory integrated planning tools and wider societal and policy needs for promoting shift in agroforestry.

MAIN TASKS OF THE CANDIDATES

Successful applicants will register at Makerere University and will undertake the following tasks:

  1. Spend six (6) months in Denmark at Aarhus University or University of Copenhagen to refine their research proposals, review literature, participate in seminars and take some methodological courses.
  2. Collect and analyze data
  3. Produce a PhD thesis, based on 3-4 peer-reviewed articles published in key international journals
  4. Disseminate results in scholarly journals and at national and international conferences.
  5. Be an active participant in the day-to-day project activities.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS, QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

The applicants should have completed a Master’s degree in Natural Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Geographical Sciences, Economics, Sociology, Anthropology, Development Studies, or any other closely related subject.

Applicants should have an excellent academic and educational record (an average of B for the Masters), strong analytical (Knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methods) and writing skills (e.g. evidence of peer-reviewed publications or previous research experience will be an advantage).

Successful applicants will be expected to contribute to the project’s publication targets and will be encouraged to publish in international, peer-reviewed ISI journals. The candidates should be able to work independently but also as part of the project team.

Age limits: Not more than 40 years (female applicants) and 35 (male applicants) at the time of application.

WHAT THE SCHOLARSHIP COVERS

The PhD scholarship will cover tuition fees for a period of four years. The scholarship will provide a modest stipend. Research and travel expenses to and from Denmark will be covered by the project.

EXPECTED START DATE

Successful candidates will receive notification by 15th May 2024. After that, they are expected to develop their research proposals with the guidance of their supervisors, and to follow Makerere University’s procedures to apply for admission to the PhD Programme.
The planned starting date is 1st July 2024. The PhD contract will include a trial period of 4 months during which the candidates will be expected to register at the University.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested applicants should submit applications by e-mail to the respective theme leaders by 15th April 2024.

For theme one (1): Prof John Tabuti, Department of Environmental Management, Email: jtabuti@gmail.com, with a copy to Prof. Frank Mugagga (fmugagga@gmail.com)

For theme Two (2): Prof. Frank Mugagga, Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Climatic Sciences, Email: fmugagga@gmail.com, with a copy to Prof. John Tabuti (jtabuti@gmail.com).

The application should include

  1. A brief statement of interest or cover letter describing your motivation to apply
  2. A concept of no more than 5 pages (page format A4 with 2.5 cm margins, single spacing and Times New Roman 12-point font) outlining the thematic focus and specifying how it relates to the overall project, research questions, methodological and theoretical focus, a timeframe of activities and a list of expected outputs. The concept should include suggestions for case studies.
  3. Curriculum vitae (CV), relevant academic transcripts and diplomas (Degree certificates and certified transcripts of academic degrees).
  4. A copy of the master’s thesis.
  5. Publications or any other relevant research work can be included. It is often difficult to judge the applicant’s contribution to publications with multiple authors, hence a short description of the applicant’s contribution must be included.
  6. Contact information (with phone numbers and e-mail addresses) for two persons who may act as references.

The selection process: Applications will be evaluated by a committee and suitable candidates will be invited for interviews.

This call is subject to equal opportunities for all, and qualifying women and candidates with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Makerere-CAES-SFEGS-PhD-advert_AfPeC-ProjectDownload

Continue Reading

Trending