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Department of Geography, Geo-informatics & Climatic Sciences reviews programmes

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In a bid to align its programmes to the national and global development agenda, the Department of Geography, Geo-informatics and Climatic Sciences, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University conducts periodical reviews in consultation with different stakeholders.

The Department is currently reviewing five programmes namely: Master of Land Use and Regional Development Planning, MSc Disaster Risk Management, Master of Geographical Sciences, Bachelor of Geographical Sciences, and BSc Meteorology.

The Head, Department of Geography, Geo-informatics and Climatic Sciences, Prof. Frank Mugagga briefing participants on the review process.
The Head, Department of Geography, Geo-informatics and Climatic Sciences, Prof. Frank Mugagga briefing participants on the review process.

Besides aligning the programmes to the national and global development agenda, the review processes is intended to improve marketability and innovativeness of the programmes, address industry needs and contemporary challenges, improve practical training and interdisciplinarity, and to strengthen analytical skills amongst students.

Since 2017, the department has been engaging different stakeholders including individual staff members, students, alumni and industry actors who have provided enriching contributions. The reviewed programmes will be rolled out in the Academic Year 2023/2024.

The Dean, School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences, CAES, Prof. Fred Babweteera addressing participants.
The Dean, School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences, CAES, Prof. Fred Babweteera addressing participants.

Stakeholder engagement

To further enrich the programmes, the Department held a two-day stakeholder engagement to receive feedback on the proposed amendments. The activity held on 3rd-4th August 2022 at the School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences and coordinated by the Head of Department, Prof. Frank Mugagga and Dr Paul Mukwaya was attended by academics from Makerere University College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT); College of Education and External Studies (CEES); College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS); and the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS). It was also attended by representatives from Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA); Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development; National Planning Authority;and USAID.

The Deputy Principal of CAES, Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze delivering his remarks at the review workshop.
The Deputy Principal of CAES, Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze delivering his remarks at the review workshop.

Proposed amendments

1. MSc Disaster Risk Management

The overall objective of the programme is to build national and regional human capacities in reducing risk to disasters and accelerating human security and economic development.

Specific Objectives

  • Develop multi-skilled and dynamic professionals with knowledge and novel techniques to assess disaster risks and implement timely measures to efficiently manage disasters
  • Impart interdisciplinary research skills for generation of information and knowledge for disaster risk management
  • Increase local and regional capacities for anticipation, prediction and management of disaster events
Prof. Tonny Oyana (R), Principal College of Computing and Information Sciences, Makerere University graced the event.
Prof. Tonny Oyana (R), Principal College of Computing and Information Sciences, Makerere University graced the event.

Courses offered

Under the programme, a number of courses are offered including; Principles of Disaster Risk Management, Risk and Vulnerability Analysis, Introduction to Geo-Information Science, Natural hazards Assessment, Legal Frameworks for Disaster Risk Management, Population and Displacement, Extreme Weather Events, Research Methods and Applied Statistics, Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation, Field Exposure and Project Reporting, Earth Observation Techniques for Disaster Risk Management, Economics of Hazards and Disasters, Public Health in Emergencies and Humanitarian Assistance, and Urban Risk Management.

Summary of modifications

All courses have been aligned to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At the stakeholders’ engagement, proposals were made to include issues of disaster communication & response, resilience, insurance, multi-hazard analysis and climate change. The revised programme will equip students with interdisciplinary research skills to effectively deal with various disasters.

Dr. Paul Mukwaya moderated the workshop and presented the revised Master of Land Use and Regional Development Planning.
Dr. Paul Mukwaya moderated the workshop and presented the revised Master of Land Use and Regional Development Planning.

2. Master of Geographical Sciences

The programme aims to build a sought-after human resource pool of graduates with geographical skills and knowledge to address contemporary and emerging issues across scales. It also aims to advance the understanding of Geographical Sciences for graduate students from diverse disciplines, to build capacity in geographic research and information management, and to impart knowledge on the integrating nature of geography for multidisciplinary response to complexities of the world.

Courses offered

The Department offers a wide-range of courses under the programme. These include: Geographical Thought and Applications, Geographical Information Science and Technology, Remote Sensing and Earth Observations, Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, Natural Resource Modelling and Management, Applied Economic Geography, Geo-Politics and Development, Soil Conservation and Management, Coastal and lacustrine Geomorphology, Research Methods and Applied Statistics, Land Evaluation and Land Use Planning, Impact Assessment and Auditing, Settlement Analysis and Planning, Population Analysis and Development, Applied Agro-Climatology, Fluvial Geomorphology, Vulnerability and Resilience Analysis and Qualitative Methods in Geography.

Dr. Henry Semakula presenting revisions in the MSc Disaster Risk Management.
Dr. Henry Semakula presenting revisions in the MSc Disaster Risk Management.

Summary of modifications

The review process aimed to strengthen students’ analytical skills, linkages between theory & practice, and interdisciplinary as well as transdisciplinary focuses. Most of the aforementioned courses remain intact with a few adjustments to improve the content.Proposals have been made to drop the course in Applied Agro-Climatology, merge Coastal and lacustrine Geomorphology (GEO7123) with Fluvial Geomorphology, and to make Vulnerability and Resilience Analysis and Qualitative Methods in Geography new elective courses.

3. Master of Land Use and Regional Development Planning

The programme focuses on how public and/or private land and associated resources can be preserved, developed, and used for maximum social, economic, and environmental benefit. A number of courses are offered in the fields of natural resources management, natural resource economics, public policy, regional and land use planning, environmental impact assessment, applicable law and regulations, government and politics, principles of business and real estate land use, statistical and analytical tools, computer applications, mapping and report preparation, site analysis, cost analysis, and communications skills.

Participants listening to the presentations.
Participants listening to the presentations.

Summary of modifications

Proposals have been made to rename Principles of Disaster Risk Management – Disaster Risk Management and Assessment, and to drop Natural Hazards Assessment, but incorporate its content into Disaster Risk Management and Assessment. Other proposals include; i) renaming Legal Frameworks for Disaster Risk Management – Disaster Law and Policy; ii) Extreme Weather events – Weather Information and Early Warning and incorporate content from Climate Risks and Disasters; iii) Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation course content updated to include aspects of early actions and forecast; iv) renaming Rural Development – Local Planning Economic Development: Theory and Practice; v) Elements of risk management incorporated into Spatial Decision Support Systems; vi) the field course Regional Ecological Planning Studio combined  with Integrated Urban Planning and renamed Land Use and Regional Planning Practice; vii) Strategic Environmental Planning and Management strengthened to reflect trends in environmental assessment and monitoring; and viii) Applied Spatial Statistics & Modelling for Planning proposed to become a school-wide course. The new courses include; Qualitative Data Analysis; Advanced Urban Systems Theory; Advances in Regional Science: Principles and Methods; Planning Ethics and Spatial Justice; Planning Law and Governance of Urban and Regional Dynamics or Regional Development Policy Issues and Analysis; Resilience, vulnerability and Regional Development; Inclusive Growth and Development; Infrastructure Geographies; and Critical Perspectives in Agrarian Change.

Prof. David Mfitumukiza presented revisions in the Master of Geographical Sciences.
Prof. David Mfitumukiza presented revisions in the Master of Geographical Sciences.

4. Bachelor of Geographical Sciences

This is a three-year Day programme started in the Academic Year 2017/2018 with three students. Intake has grown over time to an average of 30-40 students. The programme admits both A Level and Diploma students. A Level Geography is essential for direct entry.

Objectives of the Programme

The main objective of the reviewed programme is to produce geographers who are knowledgeable and practically skilled in geographical and earth systems sciences, can promote earth stewardship and contribute to sustainable development.

Participants at the review workshop.
Participants at the review workshop.

Specific objectives

  • Develop competent geographers that have the basic and novel yet transferable knowledge, skills and technologies in geography and earth systems
  • Produce competent geographers with knowledge and understanding of the earth’s resource potentials and limits in a geographic context
  • Build geographers that have the breadth and depth of knowledge on earth system dynamics and changes
  • Train geographers to initiate, plan and execute inquiry and research in topical geographic fields and earth systems sciences
  • Develop geographers that have the skills and knowledge in and pathways to attainment of sustainable development
  • Train geographers that are adequately prepared to respond to the changing global environmental, and social systems under scarce natural resources
Dr. Denis Nseka led the review of the Bachelor of Geographical Sciences.
Dr. Denis Nseka led the review of the Bachelor of Geographical Sciences.

Courses offered

Year 1 – Human Geography, Fundamentals of statistics, Principles of Earth Systems Science, Introduction to Soil Science, Communication Skills, Development Geography of East Africa, Sustainability Science and Development, Fundamentals of Ecosystem Science, Foundations of Cartography and Photogrammetry, and Urbanization and the Environment.

Year 2 – Geomorphology, Applied Cartography and Photogrammetry, Earth Observation Systems, Techniques and Applications, Global Environmental Change, Population Geography, Agriculture, Environment and Development, Risk Assessment and Management, Soil Conservation: Methods and Applications, Fundamentals of hydrology, Sustainable Energy Transitions, Research Methods, Climatology, Advanced Quantitative Techniques in Geography, Principles of Geographical Information Systems (GIS),Economic Geography, Settlement Systems Analysis, Project planning and Management, Development Geography of Africa, Biogeography, Principles of Resource Assessment, Development and Management, Lacustrine and riverine  Landscape Management, Arid and Semi – Arid Land Management.

Year 3 – Geographical Thought and Philosophy or Geographical Thought and Practice, Advanced Climatology, Geo-Statistics and Modeling, Advanced Geographical Information Systems (GIS), Demography, Political Geography, Military Geography, Geography and Public Policy Analysis, Highland and Mountain Resource Management, Applied Hydrology / Advanced Hydrology, Land Use Planning and Management, Environmental Degradation and Conservation, Systematic Geography of Uganda, Advanced Geomorphology, Applied Earth Observations Systems Techniques and Applications, Research Project and Dissertation, Urban Geography, Transport Geography, Regional Development Planning, Regional Development Geography of East and South East Asia, Road Safety: Theory and Applications, Environmental Disaster Assessment, and Adaptation and Mitigation to Climate Change.

Dr. Alex Nimusiima led the review of the BSc Meteorology emphisizing A' Level pure math as a requirement for admission to the programme.
Dr. Alex Nimusiima led the review of the BSc Meteorology emphisizing A’ Level pure math as a requirement for admission to the programme.

Proposed modifications

i)Human Geography course has been updated to include human environment interactions and implication ii) Introductory Statistics changed to Fundamentals of Statistics, iii) Principles of Earth Systems Science revised to provide foundation for climatology, biogeography, hydrology and geomorphology, iv) Communication skills introduced, v) Atmospheric Processes, Weather and Climate no longer mandatory for BGS students but for other students in the school, vi)  Development Geography of East Africa revised to include aspects on constraints to development and possible solutions, vii) Fundamentals of Ecosystem Science revised to integrate issues of Natural selection and adaptation by plants and animals, as well as restoration ecology, viii) Global Environment Change reviewed to integrate issues of land use and cover change dynamics, biodiversity and environmental change assessment, ix) Energy Analysis and Planning changed to Sustainable Energy Transitions, x) Feminism and Geography dropped, xi) Fundamentals of Hydrology introduced, xii) Lacustrine and Riverine Landscape Management course focusing on lake and river systems resource utilization and management introduced, xiii) Project Planning and Management introduced, xiv) Highland and Mountain Resources Management changed to Mountain Sustainable Resource Management, xv) Applied Hydrology and Environmental Degradation and Conservation introduced, xvi) Tourism and Recreation Resource Management as well as Regional Development Geography of Europe and Asia and Wildlife Ecology and Management dropped, xvii) Regional Development Geography of East and South East Asia introduced.

An official from Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA) sharing his views on the revised programmes.
An official from Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA) sharing his views on the revised programmes.

5. BSc Meteorology

This is a three-year Day programme that started in the Academic Year 2011/2012 with 4 students.Intake has been growing over time with an average of 25-35 admitted. The programme admits both A Level and Diploma students. A Level pure mathematics is essential for direct entry.

Summary of proposed courses

Year 1 – Introduction to Atmospheric Science, Meteorological Instruments and Observation Methods, Differential and Integral calculus, Classical Mechanics, Introduction to computing in meteorology, Communication Skills, Thermodynamics, Matrix Algebra and Vector analysis, Tropical Meteorology, Computer programming in Meteorology, Numerical Methods in Meteorology, and Introduction to gender.

Partipants following the proceedings at the curriculum review workshop.
Partipants following the proceedings at the curriculum review workshop.

Year 2 – Synoptic Meteorology,Advanced Atmospheric Science, Atmospheric Dynamics, Cloud Physics, Biometeorology, Soil Science and Management, Physical Meteorology, Foundations of climate change science, Weather Analysis and Forecasting, Research Methods, Principles of Geographical Information systems, Renewable energy resources, Marine Meteorology, and Data Information Management in Meteorology.

Year 3 –Remote Sensing in Meteorology, Boundary layer Meteorology, Hydrometeorology, Agro-meteorology, Advanced GIS, Meteorology and Human Environment, Urban Climatology, Elements of Environmental Pollution and Control, Aviation Meteorology, Adaptation and mitigation to Climate Change, Research Project, Societal Climate services, and Integrated Water resource management.

Prof. Fredrick Tumwine commenting on the revisions.
Prof. Fredrick Tumwine commenting on the revisions.

Participants proposed to include climate change and communication skills in all programmes.

The stakeholder engagement was graced by the Deputy Principal, CAES, Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze who emphasized the need to reflect on the relevance of all programmes offered as the University marks 100 years of existence. The workshop was attended by among others, the Principal, College of Computing and Information Sciences, Makerere University, Prof. Tonny Oyana. 

Participants follow proceedings on Day 1 of the two-day stakeholder engagement.
Participants follow proceedings on Day 1 of the two-day stakeholder engagement.

Hasifa Kabejja

Agriculture & Environment

Mak, CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform drive equitable & inclusive agricultural development through enhanced gender & agriculture curricula

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Coffee drying. Photo: Kimbugwe Fredrick. Efforts to enhance the gender and agriculture curriculum as an avenue to drive equitable and inclusive agricultural development. This work was done through a partnership between the Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa and the CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform.

****In this blog, we share about efforts to enhance the gender and agriculture curriculum as an avenue to drive equitable and inclusive agricultural development. This work was done through a partnership between the Makerere University and the CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform.

Overview

Gender equality is a key pillar to achieving sustainable development goals. However, in agrifood systems,  achieving these goals has been a challenge because of the complex social and gender relations that govern most communities in sub-Saharan Africa.

Although agriculture remains the backbone of many economies in Sub-Saharan Africa, providing livelihoods for a significant proportion of the population, gender inequalities are prevalent in this sector. For example, several gender-based constraints contribute to gender yield gaps. In addition, despite their immense contributions, women often face systemic barriers in agriculture as a result of social norms, which limit their access to and control over productive resources, decision-making processes, and agricultural extension services.

These disparities not only undermine gender equality but also constrain agricultural productivity, food security, and rural development. Addressing challenges such as these requires an understanding of the intersection between gender and agricultural development, which can inform policies and programming in the sector. One avenue to understanding and tackling these complex issues is through equipping professionals in agricultural-related fields with the necessary skills and knowledge through relevant curricula in institutions of higher learning. 

University curricula as a pathway to tackle gender in agriculture-related issues 

In a move to contribute to addressing the gap in gender-related knowledge and skills among agricultural professionals, the Gender-responsive Researchers Equipped for Agricultural Transformation (GREAT) Phase 3 initiative – a collaboration between Makerere and the CGIAR GENDER Platform – fortified the existing gender and agriculture curricula at Makerere University that was last updated more than 10 years ago.  The course materials were revamped to align with changing needs and the latest knowledge and best practices in gender and agrifood systems. Graduates of these programs are to be equipped to handle the challenges in the world of work in gender and agriculture. The same initiative also supported the development of two innovative postgraduate programs in gender and agriculture at Makerere University– a Masters and a Post Graduate Diploma, due to be launched soon. These aim to provide transformative and innovative teaching, learning, research, and services responsive to dynamic national and global needs.                                             

A section of CAES Masters graduates at the 74th graduation ceremony of Makerere University. 74th Graduation Ceremony, Day 2, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), 30th January 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A section of CAES Masters graduates at the 74th graduation ceremony of Makerere University.

A consultative approach to gender and agriculture curriculum development

Recognizing the need for collaborative curriculum design, Makerere University conducted physical and online stakeholder consultations in the last quarter of 2024.  The physical workshop held in Kampala, Uganda, was attended by a diverse group of experts in gender, agriculture, monitoring and evaluation, and university management, among others.  The online survey, targeting a diverse audience of experts in gender and agriculture globally, attracted over 70 respondents from 22 countries across five regions – Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, North America, South America, and Europe. The experts (mainly in gender studies, rural development, and agricultural economics) were from academia, national agricultural institutes, CGIAR centers, NGOs, and international organizations. The purpose of the consultation was to gather respondents’ perceptions about the relevance of the post-graduate programs, key competencies students should have upon completion of the programs, priority topics, and any existing materials they believed would be beneficial to adapt or incorporate into this curriculum, among other things.

Stakeholders during the Physical consultation workshop in Kampala. Credit: Geoffrey Kasujja. Efforts to enhance the gender and agriculture curriculum as an avenue to drive equitable and inclusive agricultural development. This work was done through a partnership between the Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa and the CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform.
Stakeholders during the Physical consultation workshop in Kampala. Credit: Geoffrey Kasujja.

Priority topics suggested by stakeholders include: gender concepts and why gender matters in agriculture,  gender and climate change, inter-sectionality, gender-responsive monitoring and evaluation, women’s empowerment, gender transformative approaches,  gender-responsive research design, data collection, analysis and reporting, and gender and seed systems. These are some of the topics that have been integrated into the curricula. They are also part of the improved existing undergraduate and graduate programs shared as open-access materials to allow other teachers and teaching institutes across the globe to draw on these efforts for their own courses.

Revised materials hosted on the Makerere University e-learning portal. Efforts to enhance the gender and agriculture curriculum as an avenue to drive equitable and inclusive agricultural development. This work was done through a partnership between the Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa and the CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform.
Revised materials hosted on the Makerere University e-learning portal.

Longer-term postgraduate programs Vs short- term courses

The post-graduate programs draw inspiration from the GREAT program, which was instrumental in training over 360 agricultural researchers in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia since 2015. Lessons from GREAT revealed the need for longer and more extensive academic offerings to develop professionals who can lead transformative change in the sector. In line with this, the majority of the consulted stakeholders (87 percent) rated the postgraduate programs as very important as opposed to short-term courses. They emphasized the need for longer-term educational initiatives to deepen theoretical understanding and practical application. This would help to create a pool of experts/ gender-responsive professionals capable of advocating for equity at every level of the agrifood system, filling the gaps in capacity that short-term training programs do not usually address.

Proposed structure and next steps

The programs will adopt an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from agriculture, gender studies, sociology, and rural development. Stakeholders also proposed that the programs leverage existing resources, such as CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform materials and evidence explainers, and FAO resources on gender and agriculture, while ensuring continuous evaluation and updates to remain relevant to evolving needs. Partner universities in Uganda that are developing similar programs include: Mountains of the Moon University in Western Uganda, University of the Sacred Heart Gulu, and Muni University in Northern Uganda.

With revamped training materials and these new academic programs on gender and agriculture, Makerere University contributes to higher education that can drive systemic change in agriculture. These programs will empower change-makers who will shape the future of agriculture into one that is inclusive, equitable, and sustainable.

Resources:

Report: Online Consultation on new programs in Gender and agriculture, October 2024

Report: Consultative Workshop on new programs in Gender and agriculture, September 2024.

Revised Gender and Agriculture Course materials: https://muele.mak.ac.ug/course/view.php?id=11805

By Elizabeth Asiimwe, Losira Nasirumbi Sanya, and Marlène Elias.

For more information, please contact:

Florence Birungi Kyazze, PhD
Senior Lecturer and GREAT Project P.I
Department of Extension and Innovation Studies
Email: fbirungikyazze@gmail.com

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Agriculture & Environment

PhD Scholarship Announcement (1 Position): Sustainable Energy Transitions in EA

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PhD Graduate Dr. Idd Ramathani is congratulated by staff from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) after being conferred upon his award on Day 5 of the 75th Graduation Ceremony. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. 17th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University, through the Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Climatic
Sciences and the School of Social Sciences & Makerere University Business School, in
collaboration with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (Norway), University of
Stavanger (Norway), University of Juba (South Sudan) and Technical University of Kenya
(Kenya) received a grant from NORAD under NORHED II projects to implement activities for
Project QZA-21/0159 – Programme 2021-2026 entitled “Capacity building for socially just
and sustainable energy transitions in East Africa”
. This project aims at building the capacity of the workforce within the East African region to implement a just and sustainable low-carbon energy agenda by imparting the relevant skills and knowledge through education, research and outreach. To this end, this project is now inviting suitable candidates among Makerere University Staff to submit applications for a PhD scholarship tenable at Makerere University for a period of 3 years.

About the project
The East African region has embraced the global drive to transition to low carbon economies and clean energy. However, a key challenge is the persistent lack of knowledge, capacity and skilled personnel to support the transition. The project focuses on building capacity and competence through education, research and outreach to ensure that the region has a workforce with the relevant skills set and knowledge required to implement and demand for a just and sustainable low-carbon energy transition agenda.

The PhD position at the Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Climatic Sciences,
Makerere University will focus on the theme: Energy infrastructure, environmental impacts
and changing social practices
.

About the theme: Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy is fundamental for halting anthropogenic climate change. However, both non-renewable and renewable energy infrastructure associated with onshore wind, hydropower and solar photovoltaic generation can be land use intensive and impact conservation areas (Rehbein et al., 2020). For instance, in Uganda, petroleum resources are located on shore within the Albertine Graben – a global biodiversity hotspot (Plumptre et al., 2017). Renewable energy infrastructure projects such as hydropower dams and support infrastructure (power lines) have traversed protected areas including national parks. So far, limited attention has been given to whether the aggregated effect of energy transitions poses a substantial threat to national, regional and global biodiversity. Hence, this project will address the environmental impacts of energy infrastructure and how social practices are affected by it.

Main tasks

  • The successful candidate will be admitted to the PhD program in Geography at Makerere University. The student must complete the PhD program consisting of mandatory and elective courses and a major research component.
  • Collect and analyse data.
  • Produce a PhD thesis, preferably based on 3-4 peer-reviewed articles published in key international journals.
  • Disseminate results at national and international conferences.
  • Be an active participant in the day-to-day project activities.

How to apply: Interested applicants should submit applications by e-mail to Prof Frank Mugagga (frank.mugagga@mak.ac.ug / fmugagga@gmail.com) and Dr. Charlotte Nakakaawa Jjunju (charlotte.jjunju@ntnu.no), including:

  1. a brief statement of interest or cover letter describing your motivation to apply (max 1 page);
  2. a concept note or description of research ideas of not more than 4 pages, outlining the focus, possible research questions, and the methodological and theoretical focus;
  3. a curriculum vitae (CV) of max 4 pages;
  4. A copy of the master’s thesis.
  5. publications if any; and as it is often difficult to judge the applicant’s contribution to publications with multiple authors, 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 referees.

Application deadline: Soft copies of the applications must be received by 21st February 2025 to the above indicated email addresses.

Eligibility requirements, qualifications and experience: The applicant should have completed a Master’s Degree in any of the following Disciplines; – Geography/Geographical Sciences, Land use and Regional Development, Disaster Risk Management or any other closely related subject. Applicants should have an excellent academic and educational record (Minimum: Upper Second for undergraduate and an average of B for the Masters) and strong analytical and writing skills (any 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.

PhD study conditions: The successful applicant is expected to register on the PhD-program at the Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Climatic Sciences at Makerere University. The candidate will be jointly supervised by Scholars from Makerere University, supported by colleagues from the Project Team.

The selection process: Applications will be evaluated by an independent evaluation committee. The Project Team will make the final selection of successful candidates based on recommendations from the evaluation committee.

Expected start date: The planned starting date is 15th March 2025. After that, they are
expected to further develop their research proposals with guidance from the supervisors and to
follow Makerere University’s admission procedure to apply for admission to the PhD Programme in Geography. The PhD scholarship period starts when candidate is formally admitted to the PhD Programme.

PhD Duration and Scholarship: The PhD candidate will be expected to complete studies within 3 years. The successful candidates will have a competitive scholarship covering tuition, functional fees and research costs.

For specific inquiries about the scholarship, please contact Prof Frank Mugagga Email:
frank.mugagga@mak.ac.ug / fmugagga@gmail.com; or Dr. Charlotte Nakakaawa Jjunju
(charlotte.jjunju@ntnu.no).

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

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Agriculture & Environment

562 Graduate from CAES, Best Researchers & Teachers Recognized

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Some of the 19 PhD graduates from CAES at the 75th graduation ceremony. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. 17th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) proudly presented 562 students for the award of degrees and diplomas at the 75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University. Among the 562 graduates, 19 earned PhDs, 97 received Master’s degrees, 11 were awarded postgraduate diplomas, and 435 graduated with Bachelor’s degrees.

Makerere University faculty from CAES, CEDAT, and CHUSS marching to the Freedom Square for the graduation ceremony. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. 17th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Makerere University faculty from CAES, CEDAT, and CHUSS marching to the Freedom Square for the graduation ceremony.

CAES PhD Graduates

The PhD graduates from CAES included Dr Achola Esther, Dr Akecha Tobby, Dr Baguma Karubanga Julius, Dr Birungi Pauline, Dr Burungi Rosemirta, Dr Fentaw Abate Asmamaw, Dr Habtemariam Assefa, and Dr Idd Ramathani. Others were: Dr Mukama Massa Henry, Dr Mbaziira James, Dr Mugisa Immaculate, Dr Musoke Charles, Dr Nabasumba Sylvia, Dr Nalubwama Sylvia, Dr Nansereko Sophie, Dr Ochen Morris, Dr Odoi Juventine Boaz, Dr Sseremba Emmanuel Owen, and Dr Twase Ismail.

Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga addresses the congregation. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga addresses the congregation.

Makerere University Graduation Highlights

A total of 13,662 students received degrees and diplomas of Makerere University at the 75th graduation ceremony held on 13th-17 January 2025. Of these, 143 graduated with PhDs, 1,813 with Masters degrees, 11,454 with Bachelor’s degrees, and 243 with postgraduate diplomas. 53% of the graduates were female and 47% were male.  Notably, 44% of the PhD graduates were female underscoring the growing involvement of women in high-level academic research. 16% of the students graduated with post-graduate degrees and diplomas. A total of 491 students graduated with first class degrees.  

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe speaking during the Graduation. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe speaking during the Graduation.

CAES Graduation Ceremony

The CAES students, along with their peers from the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT) and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), graduated on the final day of the ceremony, Friday, 17th January 2025.

The Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga presenting PhD graduates at the ceremony. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. 17th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga presenting PhD graduates at the ceremony.

Chancellor’s Remarks

During the ceremony, Makerere University Chancellor, Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, congratulated the graduates upon the achievement. He extended his gratitude to the faculty, administrators, parents, and guardians for their continuous support throughout the students’ academic journeys.

One of the graduates from CAES after receiving her PhD. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. 17th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
One of the graduates from CAES after receiving her PhD.

In his address, Dr. Kiyonga highlighted the immense potential of Uganda’s agricultural sector, advocating for increased collaboration between the university, and medium- to large-scale farmers, as well as local communities to further improve the sector. “Such partnerships could provide students with hands-on experience while supporting the growth of Uganda’s agricultural economy,” he noted. He called for stronger collaborations with the private sector to commercialize innovations emerging from the University.

Dr Settumba Mukasa from the Department of Agricultural Production, CAES congratulates one of the PhD graduates. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. 17th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr Settumba Mukasa from the Department of Agricultural Production, CAES congratulates one of the PhD graduates.

In line with the President’s directive, Dr. Kiyonga underscored the importance of integrating Political Economy into the university curricula. He stressed that this knowledge is essential for the strategic utilization of Africa’s resources and the continent’s economic transformation.

Dr Nansereko Sophie celebrating her victory. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. 17th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr Nansereko Sophie celebrating her victory.

Vice Chancellor’s Remarks

In his address, Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, equally congratulated the graduates and acknowledged the contribution of the teaching staff, administrators, the families, and guardians of the students. Prof. Nawangwe congratulated Dr. Kiyonga upon his appointment indicating that his wealth of experience would be invaluable to the university’s future development.

Some of the undergradute students from CAES at the 75th graduation ceremony. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. 17th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the undergradute students from CAES at the 75th graduation ceremony.

Highlighting the achievements registered in the past year, Prof. Nawangwe praised the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences for its outstanding research output, which has immensely contributed to the development of Uganda’s agricultural sector. “The College continues to be one of our flag bearers in research. In 2024, the College continued to lead vital initiatives focused on driving sustainable change in Africa’s agricultural and environmental sectors, particularly addressing the challenges of climate change and the need for inclusive sustainable agri-food systems,” he noted. Key of the initiatives and projects undertaken by the College included:

  1. Makerere University-IOWA State University Community Transformative Initiatives: This project has positively impacted communities in Kamuli District, enhancing livelihoods through programs in agriculture, education, nutrition, and environmental conservation.
  2. Building Capacity for Climate-Resilient Food Systems in Africa (CaReFoAfrica): A three-year academic mobility scheme co-funded by the EU, aimed at addressing agricultural sector challenges by enhancing human capacity in climate change mitigation and adaptation.
  3. Agroforestry for People, Ecosystems, and Climate Change (AfPEC): Funded by DANIDA, this project promotes agroforestry practices to protect biodiversity and mitigate climate change in the disaster-prone Mt. Elgon region.
  4. FoodLAND Project: Funded by the European Commission under Horizon 2020, this initiative seeks to develop innovative, scalable, and sustainable technologies to improve the nutrition performance of Africa’s local food systems.
  5. Centre for Tourism Development: In collaboration with the University of Oregon and Penn State University, CAES has embarked on developing a centre dedicated to addressing tourism challenges, including wildlife-community conflicts near game reserves.
CAES graduates celebrating their achievement. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. 17th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
CAES graduates celebrating their achievement.

Research excellence and Teacher Recognition

During the 75th graduation ceremony, Makerere University recognized the best researchers and teachers from each of the 10 Colleges. CAES produced the overall best teachers of the year at Makerere University namely: Dr Steven Lwasa (Department of Agribusiness and Natural Resource Economics), Dr Patrick Musinguzi (Department of Agricultural Production) and Dr Joshua Wanyama (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering). The Senior Researcher Award was presented to Prof. Richard Edema (Department of Agricultural Production), Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze (Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics and Climatic Sciences), Assoc. Prof. Anthony Egeru (Department of Environmental Management), and Assoc. Prof. Isa Kabenge (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering). The Mid-Career Researcher Award went to Dr Robert Mugabi (Department of Food Technology and Nutrition), Dr Dramadri Isaac (Department of Agricultural Production), Dr Joshua Wanyama (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering), and Dr Ephraim Nuwamanya (Department of Agricultural Production). Dr Erion Bwambale (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering), Dr Denis Nsubuga (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering), and Dr Robert Asiimwe (Department of Agribusiness and Natural Resource Economics) were recognized as the best Early Career Researchers.  

75th Graduation CAES Pictorial

Dr Donald Kugonza and Dr Bernard Obaa from CAES at the graduation ceremony on 17th January 2025. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. 17th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr Donald Kugonza and Dr Bernard Obaa from CAES at the graduation ceremony on 17th January 2025.
Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Deputy Principal of CAES emerged as one of the Best Senior Researchers. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. Convocation Luncheon, 17th January 2025, Edge Road, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Deputy Principal of CAES emerged as one of the Best Senior Researchers.
Prof. Richard Edema was recognized as one of the Best Senior Researchers from CAES. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. Convocation Luncheon, 17th January 2025, Edge Road, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Richard Edema was recognized as one of the Best Senior Researchers from CAES.
The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Monica Musenero Masanza presenting an Award to one of the Best Mid-Career Researchers from CAES, Dr Robert Mugabi. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. Convocation Luncheon, 17th January 2025, Edge Road, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Monica Musenero Masanza presenting an Award to one of the Best Mid-Career Researchers from CAES, Dr Robert Mugabi.
Dr Dramadri Isaac received the Best Mid-Career Researchers' Award. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. Convocation Luncheon, 17th January 2025, Edge Road, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr Dramadri Isaac received the Best Mid-Career Researchers’ Award.
Dr Joshua Wanyama received both the Best Mid-Career Researchers and Best Teachers' Awards. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. Convocation Luncheon, 17th January 2025, Edge Road, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr Joshua Wanyama received both the Best Mid-Career Researchers and Best Teachers’ Awards.
Dr Nsubuga Denis was recognized as one of the Best Early Career Researchers from CAES. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. Convocation Luncheon, 17th January 2025, Edge Road, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr Nsubuga Denis was recognized as one of the Best Early Career Researchers from CAES.
Dr Steven Lwasa and Dr Patrick Musinguzi received the Best Teacher Award. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. Convocation Luncheon, 17th January 2025, Edge Road, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr Steven Lwasa and Dr Patrick Musinguzi received the Best Teacher Award.

Hasifa Kabejja

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