Connect with us

Natural Sciences

CoNAS Commissions Petroleum Field Research Station in Kibale

Published

on

Following the discovery of commercial petroleum reserves in Uganda in 2006, Makerere University in 2009 pioneered teaching and research in petroleum programmes. The programmes are offered in the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) at BSc, MSc and PhD levels. As Uganda moves to the next stages of petroleum development, there is need for highly skilled workforce at various stages of exploration, development, production, transportation and refining. However, the progression of teaching and research in these fields has been largely hampered by a serious shortage of sector specific physical infrastructure especially laboratories. There is total lack of specialized equipment to train for upstream, midstream and downstream petroleum operations. According to the Workforce Skills Development Strategy & Plan for the Oil and Gas Sub sector in Uganda (WSDSP), thousands of engineers and managers in the area of control centre operations, as well as geological and petroleum engineering will be required at the development, production processing, transportation and marketing stages in the sector. The education and training institutions therefore have to be equipped in order to meet current and future petroleum skills needs. 

The newly commissioned Petroleum Field Research Station at MUBFS.
The newly commissioned Petroleum Field Research Station at MUBFS.

Project to identify and set up training infrastructure

Through a project titled, “An assessment to identify research and training laboratory and field equipment and infrastructure for petroleum geosciences and engineering in Higher Educational Institutions of Uganda”, researchers from CoNAS set out to establish a field research station in the Albertine Graben to support practical training in petroleum studies. The Project led by Prof. J.Y.T. Mugisha was supported by Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF). Other members on the project included; Prof. Michael Owor, former Head, Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, and currently Dean, School of Physical Sciences (Co-PI); Dr John Mary Kiberu, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies; Mr Willy Kasule and Ms. Suzan Kigozi, technicians in the Department; and Mr. Tonny Mugabi, ICT officer in the Department. The main objective of the project was to identify requisite physical and technological infrastructure for high quality teaching, research and training in various disciplines of the oil and gas sector in Uganda and the East African region.

The Project team with representatives from Mak-RIF after commissioning the station.
The Project team with representatives from Mak-RIF after commissioning the station.

Commissioning of the Petroleum Field Research Station

As one of the outputs of the project, a Petroleum Field Research Station was set up at Makerere University Biological Field Station (MUBFS) in Kibale. The station was officially commissioned by the Warden Research and Ecological Monitoring, Kibale Conservation area, Ms. Dorothy Kirumira on 6th August 2022.

The Project Principal Investigator, Prof. J.Y.T Mugisha emphasizing the need for training equipment in the oil and gas sector at the project dissemination workshop held at MUBFS.
The Project Principal Investigator, Prof. J.Y.T Mugisha emphasizing the need for training equipment in the oil and gas sector at the project dissemination workshop held at MUBFS.

Once fully equipped, the station will act as a one-stop centre for research and hands-on training for graduates in the oil and gas sector as well as geosciences. In her remarks, Ms. Kirumira informed participants that MUBFS is a global research station that can generate a lot of income for the University.

The Warden Research and Ecological Monitoring, Kibale Conservation area, Ms. Dorothy Kirumira (L) together with representatives from Mak-RIF, Ms. Evelyne B. Nyachwo (R) and Mr. Aziz Agaba at the project dissemination workshop.
The Warden Research and Ecological Monitoring, Kibale Conservation area, Ms. Dorothy Kirumira (L) together with representatives from Mak-RIF, Ms. Evelyne B. Nyachwo (R) and Mr. Aziz Agaba at the project dissemination workshop.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Principal Investigator, Prof. J.Y.T Mugisha noted that the country has over 400 petroleum and geosciences graduates with hardly any practical skills due to lack of training equipment. He appreciated the Government of Uganda for the support extended to the project through Mak-RIF.

The Co-PI, Prof. Michael Owor presenting about the project.
The Co-PI, Prof. Michael Owor presenting about the project.

Besides establishing a field research station, the researchers developed a database of petroleum research and teaching resources across the country. This will support relevant skilling and training for development of petroleum resources to contribute to economic development and the SDGs 4 and 7, quality education as well as affordable and clean energy. Through the project, the researchers intend to develop a funding proposal to support the establishment of requisite infrastructure for oil and gas training in the region.

The Head, Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, CoNAS, Dr. Arthur Batte delivering his remarks at the dissemination workshop.
The Head, Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, CoNAS, Dr. Arthur Batte delivering his remarks at the dissemination workshop.

The project dissemination and commissioning of the field research station was graced by the Head, Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, Dr Arthur Batte, and officials from Mak-RIF, Ms Evelyne B. Nyachwo, Research Support Officer and Mr. Aziz Agaba from the Finance Department.

The Project Engineer, Mr. Julius Kwebangana from the University Estates and Works Department.
The Project Engineer, Mr. Julius Kwebangana from the University Estates and Works Department.

Status of facilities at MUBFS and assessment of geology training sites in the Semliki Basin.

Briefing participants on the status of facilities at MUBFS, the Assistant Domestic Bursar, Mr. Kato Innocent called for renovations on the computer lab, library, shower rooms and improvement of internet connectivity.  

Right-Left - Dr John Mary Kiberu, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, also member on the project, Dr Michael Owor, Dr Arthur Batte, and Eng. Muhumuza Esau.
Right-Left – Dr John Mary Kiberu, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, also member on the project, Dr Michael Owor, Dr Arthur Batte, and Eng. Muhumuza Esau.

Besides the commissioning ceremony, participants toured facilities at MUBFS, and conducted an assessment of the study sites for geology students in the Semliki basin. The team also toured facilities at the Uganda Technical College- KIchwamba and engaged the Deputy Principal, Mr. Milton K. Mumbogwe on possible areas of collaboration including internship.

The Project Principal Investigator, Prof. JYT Mugisha addresses participants.
The Project Principal Investigator, Prof. JYT Mugisha addresses participants.

Proposed areas for further funding

  1. Exploring alternative field study and research areas across the country;
  2. Camp site ICT materials including remote access of database;
  3. Cataloguing all geoscience resources of academic institutions and industry;
  4. Database up-grading to cater for robust database engine;
  5. Refurbishment of sanitary facilities at MUBFS;
  6. Key field equipment, for example GPS, altimeters;
  7. Living quarters for field classes and researchers.
The Project team touring facilities at MUBFS.
The Project team touring facilities at MUBFS.
The Project team touring facilities at MUBFS.
The Project team touring facilities at MUBFS.
The project team assessing study sites for geology students in the Semliki Basin.
The project team assessing study sites for geology students in the Semliki Basin.
The project team assessing study sites for geology students in the Semliki Basin.
The project team assessing study sites for geology students in the Semliki Basin.
The project team assessing study sites for geology students in the Semliki Basin.
The project team assessing study sites for geology students in the Semliki Basin.
The project team at Sempaya Hot Springs.
The project team at Sempaya Hot Springs.
 The team engaging the Deputy Principal, Uganda Technical College- KIchwamba, Mr. Milton K. Mumbogwe on possibilities of collaboration.
 The team engaging the Deputy Principal, Uganda Technical College- KIchwamba, Mr. Milton K. Mumbogwe on possibilities of collaboration.
The project team touring training facilities at Uganda Technical College - Kichwamba.
The project team touring training facilities at Uganda Technical College – Kichwamba.

View on CoNAS

Natural Sciences

Equipping Students with Bioprospecting and Product Development Skills

Published

on

Dr. Alice Nabatanzi, Lecturer, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of Biosciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.

By Dr. Alice Nabatanzi

As we train Scientists we ought to equip them with skills that will help them survive beyond the Laboratories, beyond University, and beyond Academia. Thus, the need to Bioprospect and acquire product development skills.

I am therefore proud of what my 2024 Biotechnology Product Development Class has been able to achieve.

Following bioprospecting and entrepreneurial training, students developed the following products: Exotic beard oil, Herbal cough mixture, Power candy, Laundry bar soap, Moringa snack bars, Prudy Organic hair dye, Hair food, Syphilis remedy, Cornstarch based bioplastic, Nash probiotic drink, Dental care herbal mouthwash, Rosemary – lemongrass infused vinegar, Tea tree hand wash, Scented candles, Aloe fruit jam, Herbal bloom shower gel, Custard, Beetroot yoghurt, Dewormer, Stomach pain killers, Liquid organic fertilizers, Face scrub, Mosquito repellant scented air diffuser, Underarm whitening oil, Essential oil deodorant, Ria hair conditioner, Shower gels, Crochet jacket among others.

I am confident that with subsequent incubation, start-ups will emerge.


“The future belongs to those who learn more skills and combine them in creative ways.”

Robert Greene


“Build your skills not your resume.”

Sheryl Sandberg

Dr. Alice Nabatanzi is a Lecturer of Phytomedicine and Nutraceuticals in the Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of Bio-sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University.

Photo Gallery of some of the products

Pata Guard Herbal Dewormer. Products from Dr. Alice Nabatanzi's 2024 Biotechnology Product Development Class, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of Bio-sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Pata Guard Herbal Dewormer.
Lemongrass-Rosemary Infused Vinegar. Products from Dr. Alice Nabatanzi's 2024 Biotechnology Product Development Class, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of Bio-sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Lemongrass-Rosemary Infused Vinegar.
Avocorn. Products from Dr. Alice Nabatanzi's 2024 Biotechnology Product Development Class, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of Bio-sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Avocorn.
Jackfruit Seed Juice. Products from Dr. Alice Nabatanzi's 2024 Biotechnology Product Development Class, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of Bio-sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Jackfruit Seed Juice.
Pure Mint Mouthwash. Products from Dr. Alice Nabatanzi's 2024 Biotechnology Product Development Class, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of Bio-sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Pure Mint Mouthwash.
Exotic Beard Oil. Products from Dr. Alice Nabatanzi's 2024 Biotechnology Product Development Class, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of Bio-sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Exotic Beard Oil.
Crochet Jacket. Products from Dr. Alice Nabatanzi's 2024 Biotechnology Product Development Class, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of Bio-sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Crochet Jacket.
AvoGlow. Products from Dr. Alice Nabatanzi's 2024 Biotechnology Product Development Class, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of Bio-sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
AvoGlow.
Luxe Guard Scented Candles. Products from Dr. Alice Nabatanzi's 2024 Biotechnology Product Development Class, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of Bio-sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Luxe Guard Scented Candles.
Moringa Snack Bar. Products from Dr. Alice Nabatanzi's 2024 Biotechnology Product Development Class, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of Bio-sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Moringa Snack Bar.
Power Candy. Products from Dr. Alice Nabatanzi's 2024 Biotechnology Product Development Class, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, School of Bio-sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Power Candy.

Continue Reading

Natural Sciences

15 PhD Positions: Human River Systems in the 21st century

Published

on

15 New Positions Open in the FWF PhD Program "Human River systems in the 21st century (HR21)". Application Deadline: 2nd April 2024. Austria. Europe

Highly qualified applicants from all over the world are invited to apply for the PhD Program “Human River systems in the 21st century (HR21)”. The 15 positions are fully funded and the Doctoral Programme is providing additional resources for conference presentations, retreats etc.

The 15 PhD research topics are:

  • Topic 1: Role of hydrological extremes (floods) for sediment transport and morphodynamics in the human-river system
  • Topic 2: Material resources demand and flows of hydraulic structures to prevent societal impact of extreme events (social ecology, environmental history)
  • Topic 3: Intermittent flow – hydrological effects and impacts on benthic communities, ecological state and functioning of riverine systems
  • Topic 4: Drought, low flow and warming – hydrological effects and impacts on the ecological state and functioning of river systems
  • Topic 5: Water transit time distributions as indicators for the vulnerability of riverine ecosystems under different pressures from social metabolism
  • Topic 6: Analyzing possible contributions of re-activated former watercourses towards a more sustainable transformation of industrialized riverine landscapes in urban areas
  • Topic 7: The role of the latest industrial revolutions on instream processes and ecological vulnerability of IRL
  • Topic 8: The effects of infrastructure development on ecological and ecosystem service network properties in river systems
  • Topic 9: The impact of urban settlements on organic matter and nutrient flows in industrialized riverine landscapes – What can we learn from the past?
  • Topic 10: Urban metabolism, a river’s ecohydrology and industrialization: Vienna and the Danube, 1800-2000
  • Topic 11: Impact of external organic matter sources on nutrient, sediment and water transport from cropland into streams
  • Topic 12: Impacts of bioenergy crops used as riparian buffer strips on stream ecosystems’ functioning
  • Topic 13: Sustainable hydropower & and the water-energy-food nexus in multi-stressed IRLs: Challenges and solutions for science & management
  • Topic 14: Integrated modelling of farmers’ climate change impact and adaptation appraisal to inform regional human river nexus management
  • Topic 15: Strategic planning approaches to territorial governance of industrialized riverine landscapes

For more information, please visit: https://short.boku.ac.at/q9ry2k

Application deadline: 2nd April 2024

Continue Reading

Natural Sciences

Dr. Tugume Patience Wins OWSD Early Career Fellowship

Published

on

Dr. Tugume Patience, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Dr Tugume Patience, a Lecturer in the Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University is one of the 28 women who have been granted the 2023 OWSD Early Career Fellowship.  These scientists will receive up to USD50,000 to lead research projects and establish research groups at their home institutions in 16 countries in the developing world, to maintain an international standard of research and attract scholars from all over the world to collaborate. Funding for the fellowships is generously provided by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC).

During the 3-year fellowship, fellows will receive specific training to build on their leadership and management skills and develop connections with a variety of public and private sector partners to potentially convert their research into marketable products or guarantee its impact on a broader scale. By improving their communication and outreach skills, fellows will also learn to effectively present their research to various audiences, thus attracting new collaborators and potential funders to ensure the sustainability of the research project.

Dr Tugume’s Project – Biological Systems and Organisms

This project will use various forms of bio-wastes from households and urban centres in Uganda as raw materials for production of biogas, as well as an eco-friendly bio-fertilizer and bio-pesticide. Large amounts of unconsumed food are often thrown away in homes and urban centres that could be converted into useful products that would supply energy, enhance agricultural productivity and reduce deforestation. This project will construct anaerobic bio-digester tanks to process different kinds of bio-waste into biogas, a renewable energy source, and evaluate yields of biogas from different bio-wastes and combinations of bio-wastes. It will additionally produce a bio-fertilizer to enrich soil and a bio-pesticide to manage agricultural pests. The project will also equip households with the skills to biologically convert wastes into value-added products, training women and youth in biogas production and usage.

Details on the fellowships at: https://owsd.net/news/news-events/introducing-2023-owsd-early-career-fellows

Congratulations Dr Tugume

View on CoNAS

Continue Reading

Trending