The Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA), is a constituent entity of Makerere University and the School of Public Health responsible for capacity building and research for tobacco control in Africa. CTCA in collaboration with the University of Southern California (USC) are implementing a 5-year research project titled “Quit4Life+: Adapting and Evaluating a Phone-Based Tobacco Use Cessation Program for People Living with HIV in Uganda and Zambia”. This randomized controlled trial aims to promote tobacco cessation among HIV infected persons through adapting a standard short message service (SMS) intervention tailored to meet the needs of PLWH (Quit4Life+) for tobacco cessation, and determining the efficacy of the SMS-based intervention through a randomized trial with current standard of care as the control, in Uganda and Zambia.
The study will provide insights into the efficacy, feasibility, and applicability of delivering tobacco cessation interventions by health care professionals at HIV treatment centers in two countries with different tobacco use patterns, policy environments, and health care resources and provide needed information to health care providers and policymakers looking for cost-effective tobacco cessation interventions to inform scaleup of tobacco use cessation in LMICs worldwide. The project is therefore targeting professionals with experience in training and exposure to health field to fill the following positions;
Clinical Trial and Training Coordinator
Reports Directly to: The Principal Investigator Quite4Life Project at CTCA. Directly Supervises: None Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda
The position holder is expected to facilitate and participate in training for qualitative data collection, piloting stage of the study happening in October 2022 and at the randomized trial stage and is expected to start work in October 2022. This is a specific, time-bound contract type of assignment and not full-time employment.
Job purpose
The objective of recruiting a Clinical Trial and Training Coordinator is to prepare the research assistants, interviewers, data collectors, data entrants to understand the requirements of the task to enable the perform and deliver quality work. Therefore, the project seeks to recruit a professional responsible for holding the research program training component to realize project goal and specific. The Training Coordinator will be contracted for specific segments covering October 2022 to April 2023.
Duties and Responsibilities
Conduct a study-wide training needs assessment and identify skills or knowledge gaps that need to be addressed
Development of the training plan that will cover direct training, mentorship, and training evaluation.
Design, prepare and order training aids and materials
Select appropriate training methods or activities such as simulations, mentoring, on-the-job training, professional development classes
Participate in review and development of materials, protocols, training manuals
Participate in development of annual work-plans addressing training and mentorship/research exchange needs for the collaboration.
Plan, coordinate and monitor trainee placement and how they fit in the study sites health service delivery
Assess instructional effectiveness and determine the impact of training on research assistants’ skills and key performance indicators.
Gather feedback from trainers and trainees after each educational session
Partner with internal stakeholders and liaise with experts regarding instructional design
Manage and maintain in-house training facilities and equipment
Develop training reports
Other roles will include but not limited to
Ensure quality of the training processes and outputs
Check on deadlines of the training activities
Attend meetings
Qualifications
Proven work experience as a Training Coordinator, Trainer, Training Facilitator or similar role
Extensive knowledge of instructional design theory and implementation
Adequate knowledge of learning management systems and web delivery tools
A bachelor’s degree in Medicine, plus a master’s degree in Public Health
Have excellent communication skills, both oral and writing skills.
Proven ability to complete full training cycle:- assess needs, plan, develop, coordinate, monitor and evaluate i.e Possess training skills and experience necessary to analyse training.
At least 2 years’ hands-on experience coordinating multiple training events in a research setting particularly RCTs
Experience coordinating multi-site /country programs reporting, and collaboration program management will be an added advantage.
Should have advanced computer skills, particularly statistical packages.
Experience with e-learning platforms
Data Manager
Reports Directly to: The Principal Investigator Quite4Life Project at CTCA through the CO-I, Leading Statistics and Data Management. Directly Supervises: None Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda
Job purpose
The objective of recruiting a Data Manager is to manage the quantitative data collected. Therefore, the project seeks to recruit a professional who will be responsible for managing the study data.
The Data Manager will;
Participate in the design of the data collection tools, data collection, and analysis
Take lead in the design of electronic data entry/capture files/ formats
Process data collection, and completing data collection tools
Take lead the development of data collection and data management standard operating procedures
Prepare regular checks on study data to help project management teams monitor data flows and data quality issues during the conduct of a study.
Ensure accuracy, accessibility and data security and confidentiality, and storage of study data files and subject records.
Participate in the preparation and execution of dissemination activities. These will include the preparation of technical reports, publications, blogs, PowerPoint presentations and engaging in-country stakeholders in dissemination activities.
Participate in manuscript writing.
Participate in meetings
Execute any other data management related duties that may be assigned from time to time.
Qualifications, Skills and Experience:
Suitable applicants MUST possess
A master’s degree in either Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Statistics, or equivalent degrees.
At least two years of demonstrated relevant experience in managing health-related project research data, for projects of similar size and design.
Demonstrated statistical programming skills in statistical software and database management particularly using STATA, R and other any other relevant software.
Demonstrated experience in analytical skills and data management for projects of similar size and design.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, strong interpersonal communication, and ability to work with diverse sectors as well as meeting deadlines.
Ability to process, analyse, and present study results in a quality publishable format.
Experience in database design and data management.
Project Administrator
Reports Directly to: The Principal Investigator Quite4Life Project at CTCA Directly Supervises: None Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda
Job purpose
The objective of recruiting a Project Administrator is to support the administrative components of the study to realize the project goal. The project administrator will be contracted for specific segments covering October 2022 to September 2023, and is renewable upon satisfactory performance. The Project Administrator will be required at dedicate 50% of their time on the project.
Duties and Responsibilities
Work with the team to plan and track administration work for the Quit4Life+ project
Organize project events, liaise with delegates, venues and trainers as required
Perform clerical duties including typing, photocopying, scanning, faxing, filing, and mailing
Assist project leads in the development of logistics plans for meetings, trainings, field activities and workshops • Assist respective project leads in drafting and distributing letters; and seek confirmation of participation for events organized by Quit4Life+ project
Coordinating and scheduling conferences, meetings, and travel arrangements for traveling within and outside of Uganda
Determine needs and coordinate the procurement of office supplies, equipment, repair and maintenance services.
Monitor monthly project expenditure and compile a quarterly budget request
Support finance department with invoicing and expense tracking
Coordinate with accounts for the submission of complete and accurate financial report
Any other duties as assigned by the Principal Investigator
Qualifications and Attributes
Degree in business administration with a bias in either or accounts, finance, and administration, and any other related field.
At least 1 years’ experience in administrative work
Excellent verbal and written English language skills
Financial management skills
Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail
Proven capacity to take initiative and willingness to learn new skills as needed
Strong work ethic and the ability to work well independently and as part of a team
Outstanding interpersonal skills and ability to interact with individuals at all levels including the ability to communicate in an effective manner with a wide range of stakeholders
How to apply
i) Qualified and interested candidates are invited to submit their application documents and a motivation letter clearly highlighting the position being applied for and address this to;
a) Motivational Letter b) Resume with contacts of 3 professional referees c) Copies of all relevant academic documents
iii) Soft copies of the applications should be submitted as one PDF file to the following email address EOI@ctc-africa.org by 5:00pm on Wednesday, September 7, 2022. Please quote the position you are applying for in the subject head of your email.
The Makerere University College of Health Sciences (MakCHS), College of Natural Sciences, and College of Business and Management Sciences presented graduands for conferment of degrees on the 14th January, 2025 which was the day 2 of the 75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University that commenced on Monday 13th January 2025.
MakCHS presented a total of 886 graduands including (23) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), (456) Masters and (407) Bachelors. For the second year, MakCHS produced the researcher with the biggest number of publications, Prof. Moses Kamya and he received an award for the achievement.
Speaking to the congregation, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe – Vice Chancellor, Makerere University welcomed everyone to Makerere University’s 75th Graduation. He congratulated the 13,658 graduates, including 143 PhD recipients, 53% female graduates and 47% male graduands who will be awarded degrees through the graduation week. He commended the efforts of staff, parents, and sponsors in supporting the students’ journeys. Professor Nawangwe praised the achievements of Makerere’s Colleges and Schools, he commended MakCHS for the leadership in research and innovation flying the Makerere flag globally. He noted, ‘The College of Health Sciences is our flagship college for research and community engagement. This college accounts for 50% of all research grants won and also 50% of all the publications by the University. The College celebrated 100 years last year, making it the oldest college at Makerere University’.
Prof. Nawangwe reiterated Makerere’s transformation to a research-led institution supported by the government funded Makerere UniversityResearch and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF). “We are addressing national priorities, such as improving the Parish Development Model and advancing e-governance,” he stated. The Vice Chancellor also congratulated Dr. Crispus Kiyonga on his appointment as Chancellor and urged graduates to leverage their education to create solutions for societal challenges.
Professor Nawangwe advised the graduands thus, ‘We have equipped you with the knowledge and skills that will make you employable or to create your own businesses and employ others. Do not despair if you cannot find employment, instead reflect on the immense opportunities around you and raise them as an entrepreneur.’
Professor Puleng LenkaBula, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of South Africa (UNISA) delivered the commencement speech where she called on the graduands to remain resilient and emancipate Africa’s people. Her address titled “The Power of Resilience – African Woman, Find Your Generational Mission and Redefine Your Worth”, Professor LenkaBula highlighted the critical role of African women in shaping the continent’s destiny.
Professor LenkaBula expressed gratitude for being invited to such a significant occasion and extended greetings from South Africa, including from UNISA’s Chancellor, former South African President Dr. Thabo Mbeki. She praised Makerere University for its legacy of academic excellence and contributions to the African continent, emphasizing its role in anti-colonial struggles, post-colonial development, and its steadfast commitment to African unity. She called for a renewed focus on gender equity in academia and leadership, noting the disproportionate burdens faced by women in society. Citing the achievements of Makerere University in gender mainstreaming, she expressed optimism about the role of young leaders in dismantling patriarchal systems and fostering inclusive development.
Professor LenkaBula concluded her address to graduands with a call to action: “Your graduation is not merely a personal achievement but a contribution to Africa’s collective progress. History has thrust upon you the task of creating a future defined by resilience, innovation, and equality.”
In his remarks, Dr. Crispus Kiyonga – Chancellor, Makerere University congratulated graduands upon making it to the 75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University. Dr. Suruma expressed his appreciation of His Excellency the President and First Lady/Minister of Education and Sports for giving him the opportunity to serve Uganda and for the continuous support extended to Makerere University, requesting the congregation to join him and give them a warm applause. Dr. Kiyonga reiterated President Museveni’s directive to Makerere University to integrate the teaching of political economy across all courses to enhance students’ understanding of the country’s socioeconomic conditions. The directive, welcomed by the university’s top management, will be incorporated into the curriculum to align education with the needs of the people and the nation.
He expressed appreciation that the government has pledged to bolster Makerere’s research funding and he encouraged the University to strengthen partnerships with the private sector to commercialize innovations developed at the institution.
The new Chancellor pledged support to the University management in saving its land and urged that an agro-industrial park be established. “This park would serve three purposes: teaching, generating income, and acting as a demonstration site for communities across the country,” Dr. Kiyonga noted. He also emphasized the urgency of addressing Uganda’s food insecurity, highlighting that 40% of children in the Rwenzori region are stunted, with malnutrition affecting most regions of the country.
Dr. Kiyonga also pointed out Africa’s underperformance despite its vast resources, describing it as a contradiction. “It is our responsibility to change the conditions of our people and ensure Africa rises to its potential,” he urged.
The ceremony was graced by Hon. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, Minister of State for Primary Education, who represented the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni. Other dignitaries included members of Parliament, the judiciary, the diplomatic corps, and academics.
The Minister lauded Makerere University for its dedication to academic excellence and innovation. “Today reflects the resilience, hard work, and commitment of our graduates, supported by the university staff, management, and parents,” she said. The Minister commended the Vice Chancellor and management for fostering research and innovation while urging them to maintain robust quality control systems to uphold the institution’s integrity.
She also reflected on Makerere’s recent milestones, including the commissioning of a new the launch of the School of Graduate Studies and Research. “Your achievements stem from hard work, transparency, and accountability. They set Makerere apart as a leader in higher education,” she noted. Addressing the graduates, Hon. Kaducu encouraged them to apply their skills to solve societal challenges. “Makerere has equipped you with critical thinking and creativity. Use this to seize opportunities, make a difference, and shine wherever you go,” she concluded. During the 75th graduation ceremony held from the 13th -17th January, 2025, a total of 13,658 graduands were awarded degrees and diplomas in various disciplines. Of these, 143 received PhDs, 1,813 Masters Degrees, 243 postgraduate Diplomas, and 11,454 Bachelor’s Degrees. 53% of the graduands are female and 47% are male. 44% of the PhD graduands are female. A total of 491 graduands received first class degrees.
The course is intended to strengthen the capacity of practicing workers to successfully identify and manage Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) opportunities and problems by facilitating the acquisition of adequate knowledge, development of skills and attitudes through understanding and use of the 6 essential services of WASH. These are to:
Monitor WASH status to identify and solve community environmental health problems.
Diagnose and investigate WASH problems and health hazards in the community.
Inform, educate and empower people about WASH issues.
Mobilise community partnerships and actions to identify and solve WASH problems.
Evaluate effectiveness, accessibility and quality of personal and population-based WASH services.
Research for new insights and innovative solutions to WASH problems.
Course Structure
The course is an 8-weeks programme of study. Participants will spend 3 weeks (full-time) at Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) while 4 weeks will be spent at suitable workplaces / field sites. The final week of the course will be spent at MakSPH for presentation of project / field work, final examination, and the certificate awarding ceremony. This is a day programme and will run from 26th May to 18th July 2025.
Course Modules
Water Resources Management
Environmental Sanitation
Hygiene Promotion
WASH Policy, Planning and Financing
Field / Project Work
Mode of delivery of the course includes lectures, tutorials, seminars, practicals and field work.
Dates
26th May to 18th July 2025
Fees
Ugandans
Internationals
UGX 900,000
USD 500
Dates and Fees for the Certificate in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene 2025
Who should apply?
Practicing officers in the WASH sector including those working in local government, non governmental organizations (NGOs) or the private sector.
Environmental Health workers who wish to broaden their knowledge and skills as a form of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) so as to be better equipped to implement WASH activities.
Entry requirements for admission to the course are Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) or its equivalent with at least 1 year working experience in WASH.
The deadline for receiving applications is Wednesday 26th March 2025.
For further details, contact:
Course Administrator Ms. Irene Nassazi Makerere University School of Public Health New Mulago Hospital Complex E-mail: inassazi@musph.ac.ug Tel. +256771671354
Course Coordinator Dr. David Musoke Makerere University School of Public Health New Mulago Hospital Complex E-mail: dmusoke@musph.ac.ug Tel. +256788572129
Co-Course Coordinator Mr. Allan Ssembuusi Makerere University School of Public Health New Mulago Hospital Complex E-mail: assembuusi@musph.ac.ug Tel. +256759955067
On 2nd December 2024, Assoc. Professor Bruce Kirenga officially took over as Principal of the College of Health Sciences, Makerere University (MakCHS) in a handover ceremony held in the College Board Room. Dr. Kirenga succeeds Professor Damalie Nakanjako, who successfully completed her four-year term.
The ceremony was attended by members of the MakCHS Administrative Board and key university leaders, including Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) Professor Henry Alinaitwe, Chief of Human Resources, Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni, & Deputy University Secretary Mr. Simon Kizito, among others.
In her remarks, Professor Nakanjako reflected on her time in office with gratitude and pride since she assumed office in December 2020. She expressed her full support for MakCHS in contributing towards training and research in Makerere University.
Professor Nakanjako thanked the university top management for the support rendered to during her term of office as Principal. I thank family, friends and colleagues who supported and allowed me share my time with the college, especially beyond official hours.
Dr. Kirenga, a pulmonologist, researcher, and founding director of the Makerere University Lung Institute, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Makerere leadership and the search committee for entrusting him with the responsibility of steering the college. He noted; “It’s a true honour to have been entrusted with this role. The search process was rigorous, but I learned so much from the ideas shared by my colleagues—it was a truly honourable competition.”
With a vision for collaboration and growth, Dr. Kirenga outlined his priorities, including improving staffing, improving relationships with teaching hospitals, and addressing infrastructure needs. He emphasized a leadership style rooted in inclusivity and teamwork, saying, “Let’s create a common vision through consultation and work together. I’ll visit every unit in the college to hear directly from staff about their challenges, needs, and ideas for moving forward.”
Dr. Kirenga also shared plans to establish a forum of past leaders to harness their collective wisdom and ensure continuity in leadership.