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Computing & IS

US Embassy Engages Makerere on International Collaboration

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The Embassy of the United States of America in Uganda is coordinating a study Abroad engagement entitled, “Establishing University Partnerships to attract more US Scholars and Students”.

Prof. Wing-Kai  and Dr. Daniel Ddumba,  interact with CoCIS Ag. Deputy Principal  Dr. Peter Nabende.
Prof. Wing-Kai and Dr. Daniel Ddumba, interact with CoCIS Ag. Deputy Principal Dr. Peter Nabende.

The Study Abroad engagement which is sponsored by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs will focus on holding institutional capacity of Ugandan Colleges and Universities to host more US students, interns, researchers and teachers.

Some of the CoCIS Heads of Department attending the meeting.
Some of the CoCIS Heads of Department attending the meeting.

The embassy hired the US  consultant Prof.  Wing-Kai, the Assistant Provost for Global Engagements and Senior International Officer at Bridge Water State University to conduct eight workshops  at Makerere University colleges.

The embassy engaged Dr. Daniel Ddumba, a Lecturer from the department of Geography, Geo-Informatics and Climatic Sciences to facilitate the execution of this program.

CoCIS staff and students pose for agroup photo with Prof. Wing-Kai after the meeting.
CoCIS staff and students pose for agroup photo with Prof. Wing-Kai after the meeting.

In the morning of  10th August 2022, Prof. Wing-Kai, was in the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS)  where he met  the Principals, Deans, Heads of Departments, scholars and students to understand the process of  global cooperation.

Prof. Wing-Kai said,  the meeting was used  as a channel to improve the  activities for international collaborations.

Dr. Daniel Ddumba, Dr. Engineer Bainomugisha (CoCIS) interact with Prof. Wing-Kai after the meeting.
Dr. Daniel Ddumba, Dr. Engineer Bainomugisha (CoCIS) interact with Prof. Wing-Kai after the meeting.

“What I found is that this college has productive exchanges with Europe and United States but there some people are not aware of these collaborations and these collaborations can be improved by providing funding for Ugandan students to go to the West for short term opportunities. I hope that my visit can encourage the US government and American universities to start working with this college and to provide more opportunities for professors and students”, Prof. Wing-Kai.

Some of the CoCIS graduate students attending the meeting.
Some of the CoCIS graduate students attending the meeting.

Following the COVID-19 Pandemic and its impacts on all sectors, Prof. Wing-Kai stressed that this was the time for the college and partners to rethink their structure for improving international collaboration.

A section of CoCIS staff attending the meeting with Prof. Wing-Kai.
A section of CoCIS staff attending the meeting with Prof. Wing-Kai.

“We are going to talk to the Principal whether there is going to be an international office and a coordinator to manage the collaborations with international entities and how to develop different strategies for prioritizing the partnerships so that they have clear goals and outcomes and try to make it sustainable for the future”, Prof. Wing- Kai pledged.

On the same day 10th August 2022 afternoon, Prof. Wing-Kai held a meeting with management, staff and students from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS).  Prof. Wing -Kai described the meeting especially with students who  formed  the majority as interesting.

Prof. Wing-Kai (R) speaking to CHUSS staff and students as the Principal's representative Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo (L) listens.
Prof. Wing-Kai (R) speaking to CHUSS staff and students as the Principal’s representative Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo (L) listens.

“ Most of the audience are undergraduate and some graduate students. I hear about their experiences. I want to encourage them to think  about having an international experience in future by trying to go abroad for short term and developing some international activities and to internationalize the curriculum on campus not just going abroad. It is easier to internationalise through connecting  with international community in Kampala and abroad  here physical and virtually”, Prof. Wing- Kai said.

Prof. Wing-Kai implored the university management to increase the capacity for internationalization so that Makerere can improve the infrastructure and   programs, and to tap into the United States experience in internationalization.

CHUSS staff and students pose for a group photo with Prof. Wing-Kai after the meeting.
CHUSS staff and students pose for a group photo with Prof. Wing-Kai after the meeting.

Some of the proposed initiatives by students include creating  internship platforms and streamlining scholarship to  cater for undergraduates,  streamlining  international coordination, facilitating online discussions between Western and African students and strengthening the office of the Dean of students to facilitate  academic exchanges.

CHUSS Student president Abdul Fatah (Standing) contributes to the discussion during the meeting.
CHUSS Student president Abdul Fatah (Standing) contributes to the discussion during the meeting.

Other initiatives to strengthen collaboration suggested include organizing the US-Makerere special events such as  competitions, workshop, annual exhibitions, camps, cultural performances that would provide opportunities to highlight international education as well as the  American, European , Chinese etc culture on campus.

Dr. Ivan Lukanda (L) and Dr. Ebila Florence (R) interact with Prof Wing-Kai and Dr. Daniel Ddumba after the meeting.
Dr. Ivan Lukanda (L) and Dr. Ebila Florence (R) interact with Prof Wing-Kai and Dr. Daniel Ddumba after the meeting.

Other proposals were the need to form the US-Mak Alumni association, organizing short visits for students and staff to and from Africa to see how programs are run, joint research and, forming a community of practice to share ideas and to network.

Prof. Wing-Kai speaking to CHUSS students and staff in the Multimedia/E-Learning Room, Level 4, Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Makerere University.
Prof. Wing-Kai speaking to CHUSS students and staff in the Multimedia/E-Learning Room, Level 4, Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Makerere University.

Other proposed initiatives include  promoting online education to expose students and staff to  best structures and expertise, promoting virtual conferences, joint publications and more student engagement of students outside the classroom through debates and clubs.

Jane Anyango is the Principal Communication Officer, CHUSS and CoCIS

Jane Anyango

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Computing & IS

CoCIS Hosts AI Workshop for Erasmus Exchange Program

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Participants posing for Group photo in front of Block A, College of Computing and Information Sciences. Two-day workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students and staff participating in the Erasmus+ exchange program, 11th-12th November 2024, Conference Room, Level 4, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) hosted a two-day workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students and staff participating in the Erasmus+ exchange program. The event, opened on November 11, 2024, brought together participants from Makerere University, Busitema University, and the University of Twente, aiming to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration in AI applications in agriculture and health.

Professor Tonny Oyana, Principal of CoCIS, officially opened the workshop, emphasizing the transformative role of AI in the modern world. “In the next 30 years, computing and AI will be integral in every field. Just as Word and Windows became standard, AI is also becoming essential across disciplines,” he stated, urging participants to remain innovative and rise above global competition.

Principal CoCIS Prof. Tonny Oyana urges students to be innovative and work beyond the time deadlines. Two-day workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students and staff participating in the Erasmus+ exchange program, 11th-12th November 2024, Conference Room, Level 4, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Principal CoCIS Prof. Tonny Oyana urges students to be innovative and work beyond the time deadlines.

Throughout the event, Prof. Oyana highlighted the need for resilience, collaboration, and exceeding expectations in academic and professional pursuits. “If you’re required to publish three papers, aim for five,” he advised, stressing that academic success often requires going beyond minimum standards. He also encouraged participants to be proactive, using time effectively and fostering collaborative relationships that can drive impactful research and innovation.

The workshop provided a platform for interdisciplinary exchanges and networking opportunities, with participants urged to seize this opportunity for international collaboration and exploration of new ideas in AI. Prof. Oyana underscored that today’s challenges, from healthcare to environmental sustainability, require a multidisciplinary approach: “Today’s problems can’t be solved by one person. It’s through collaboration across institutions and countries that we create better solutions.”

Prof. Estefania Talavera from University of Twente presenting on Human Behaviour understanding from Videos. Two-day workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students and staff participating in the Erasmus+ exchange program, 11th-12th November 2024, Conference Room, Level 4, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Estefania Talavera from University of Twente presenting on Human Behaviour understanding from Videos.

The event is part of an ongoing Erasmus+ initiative, promoting academic exchange and building capacities in AI across various fields, aligning with CoCIS’s commitment to fostering innovation and preparing students to meet the demands of a technology-driven world

Dr. Mariette Applauds Staff and Students for Embracing Erasmus+ Program.

Representing the Head of the Department of Computer Science, Dr. Mariette Atuhuriire Katarahweire  commended  staff and students for their enthusiasm in embracing the program. The event, held in partnership with Busitema University and the University of Twente, brought together participants to foster academic and cultural exchange across institutions.

Dr. Marriete representing HoD Computer Science. Two-day workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students and staff participating in the Erasmus+ exchange program, 11th-12th November 2024, Conference Room, Level 4, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Marriete representing HoD Computer Science.

Dr. Mariette highlighted the importance of international collaboration, recounting her own experience studying in Belgium and interacting with Dutch institutions. “I once thought Erasmus was only for Europe, but seeing it extended to Africa and embraced here is heartening,” she remarked. She praised the event organizers and encouraged both students and faculty to seize such collaborative opportunities, adding, “It’s not just for students; staff should also take part, as these experiences refresh your perspective and enhance your work.”

Sebestian Bunda - a PhD candidate from University of Twente presenting on Embedded AI. Two-day workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students and staff participating in the Erasmus+ exchange program, 11th-12th November 2024, Conference Room, Level 4, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Sebestian Bunda – a PhD candidate from University of Twente presenting on Embedded AI.

The workshop featured presentations by PhD students, providing them with valuable feedback and a platform to share ideas. “Presenting helps you think deeply about your work and clarify it for others,” Dr. Mariette explained, noting that feedback from peers and faculty can help overcome challenges in research and spark new insights.

Welcoming first-time visitors to Uganda, Dr. Mariette encouraged students to take advantage of the program’s travel opportunities, which offer exposure to different environments, cultures, and academic perspectives. “Collaborations like these allow you to make connections, share ideas, and gain insights that can transform your academic journey,” she concluded.

She expressed gratitude to the workshop organizers and applauded the participants, hoping that the event would be a fruitful learning experience for everyone involved.

Dr. Rose Nakibuule making her remarks. Two-day workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students and staff participating in the Erasmus+ exchange program, 11th-12th November 2024, Conference Room, Level 4, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Rose Nakibuule making her remarks.

Dr. Rose Nakibuule Highlights AI Research and International Collaboration in Makerere’s Exchange Program

Dr. Rose Nakibuule, Program Coordinator at Makerere University, outlined the focus areas of an international research collaboration that involves exchanges between Makerere, the University of Twente (Netherlands), Busitema University. The program emphasizes artificial intelligence (AI) applications in agriculture and health, with a primary goal of fostering knowledge exchange and research development.

Tumusiime Andrew Gahwera, a PhD Candidate of Makerere University presenting on Machine learning models for short term rainfall prediction using Uganda’s L. Victoria Database. Two-day workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students and staff participating in the Erasmus+ exchange program, 11th-12th November 2024, Conference Room, Level 4, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Tumusiime Andrew Gahwera, a PhD Candidate of Makerere University presenting on Machine learning models for short term rainfall prediction using Uganda’s L. Victoria Database.

“This program is about the mobility of students and staff between institutions to enhance research and collaboration,” Dr. Nakibuule explained. “Last year, three Makerere PhD students went to Twente for six months, and this year two of us, myself and Stephen Odongo, will participate.” She noted that students from Busitema University have also benefited from the exchange.

Dr. Nakibuule highlighted several AI-focused projects, including disease monitoring systems and AI-powered translation tools aimed at helping farmers who speak diverse languages. “We’re developing a platform that can translate information into local languages, so farmers across regions can access vital data,” she said. In agriculture, the program’s projects also include AI models for identifying crop varieties, allowing farmers to use smartphones to scan seeds or pods for variety detection.

Participants posing for Group photo in front of Block A, College of Computing and Information Sciences. Two-day workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students and staff participating in the Erasmus+ exchange program, 11th-12th November 2024, Conference Room, Level 4, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants posing for Group photo in front of Block A, College of Computing and Information Sciences.

The program’s collaborative nature also addresses resource limitations faced by Makerere. “Twente has the resources we need to build these AI systems, while we bring local expertise and the specific needs of our communities. Together, we’re creating tools that can be applied directly in the field,” Dr. Nakibuule said. This hands-on, cross-border collaboration aims to ensure that research goes beyond the lab, benefiting communities directly and supporting data-driven agricultural practices.

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Jane Anyango

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CoCIS Welcomes Nigerian Volunteer Senior Lecturer to Foster Knowledge Exchange

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Dr. Alo Olubisi meeting Head of Department Assoc. Prof. Engineer Bainomugisha in his office. Makerere University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) has warmly welcomed Dr. Alo Oluwaseum Olubisi, a senior lecturer from Nigeria, who will serve as a volunteer in teaching, research, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) has warmly welcomed Dr. Alo Oluwaseum Olubisi, a senior lecturer from Nigeria, who will serve as a volunteer in teaching, research, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing. Dr. Olubisi, assigned to the Department of Computer Science, is being oriented   into the college to familiarize herself with the environment and begin contributing to the college’s academic and research goals.

Dr. Alo Olubisi in the office of the Head, Department of Computer Science. Makerere University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) has warmly welcomed Dr. Alo Oluwaseum Olubisi, a senior lecturer from Nigeria, who will serve as a volunteer in teaching, research, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Alo Olubisi in the office of the Head, Department of Computer Science.

In a landmark partnership marking a significant South-South academic exchange, CoCIS Principal, Prof. Tonny Justus Oyana, praised the initiative as a pivotal step towards strengthening intra-African academic cooperation. “We have previously seen exchanges primarily with Europe, but this Nigeria-Uganda collaboration is a milestone. If scholars continue to work together through such faculty exchanges, it will advance knowledge transfer and foster Africa’s development,” Prof. Oyana stated. “I welcome this incredible opportunity for Africans to work collaboratively.”

The appointment is part of a broader effort led by Makerere University’s Vice Chancellor to join the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (TAC), a program facilitated by Nigeria to support partner African countries. His Excellency, the High Commissioner of Nigeria to Uganda, was instrumental in helping Makerere access this initiative, which aims to bolster academic expertise across African institutions.

Engineer Bainomugisha speaking to Dr. Alo Olubisi. Makerere University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) has warmly welcomed Dr. Alo Oluwaseum Olubisi, a senior lecturer from Nigeria, who will serve as a volunteer in teaching, research, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Engineer Bainomugisha speaking to Dr. Alo Olubisi.

Dr. Olubisi’s role, effective from November 1, 2024, to October 31, 2026, includes teaching, conducting research, and engaging in community outreach. Prof. Oyana highlighted her multifaceted duties, noting, “She will engage in lectures, knowledge dissemination, and also support the examination process. Importantly, her presence will aid in mentoring young faculty and graduate students, enriching their research skills and academic progression.”

Dr. Olubisi’s work will be supervised by the Head of the Department of Computer Science. She is expected to conduct lectures, lead demonstrations, guide tutorials, and engage in practical sessions. Additionally, she will focus on building research capacity among staff and students, especially in impact evaluation using advanced technologies, and will contribute to collaborative research initiatives. Her role also includes acting as an examiner and participating in curriculum development within the department.

Assoc. Prof. Engineer Bainomugisha speaking to the visiting lecturer in his office. Makerere University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) has warmly welcomed Dr. Alo Oluwaseum Olubisi, a senior lecturer from Nigeria, who will serve as a volunteer in teaching, research, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Assoc. Prof. Engineer Bainomugisha speaking to the visiting lecturer in his office.

“We have introduced her to our PhD students to foster collaboration on key research projects,” Prof. Oyana added. “Her engagement in these strategic areas is anticipated to enhance productivity and offer immense benefits to Makerere University.”

Dr. Olubisi’s appointment reflects Makerere University’s dedication to fostering academic partnerships across Africa, supporting capacity building, and promoting innovative research and knowledge exchange within the continent.

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Jane Anyango

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Computing & IS

ICT Bootcamp for Vacists (P7, S4 & S6), Students & General Public

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Participants attend a session in the Smart Classroom Facility, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS). Block A, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) is the main ICT training, research and consultancy Centre in Makerere University and the region. The College runs a Center for Innovations and Professional Skills Development (CiPSD), through which the College addresses various industrial challenges, like skills development, incubation of new ideas and nurturing of new technology-based business.

CiPSD has organised an ICT Bootcamp to equip participants with  hands-on tech skills. Practical training is open to Vacists (P.7, S.4 and S.6), Students and the General Public.    

Start Dates : 18th/11/2024 (P.7 & S.4 )    |  09th/12/2024 (S.6 & Others)

CERTIFICATE : Each participant will receive a certificate at the end of the training

To Register

Linkhttps://t.ly/FTGeu

WhatsApp/Call: +256 753 200 013 | +256 782 512 897 | +256 752 373 023

TARGET AUDIENCE :

  • Vacists (P.7, S.4 & S.6)
  • Students
  • Professionals
  • Anyone interested in acquiring hands-on tech skills.

SKILLS COURSES

  1. Microsoft Office Suite, Internet & Online Collaboration – 50,000/= (2 weeks)
  2. Programming/Dynamic Website Design, – 50,000/= (2 weeks)
  3. Graphics Design & Image Editing – 50,000/= (2 weeks)
  4. Networking & Systems Administration – 50,000/= (2 weeks)
  5. Computer Repair & Software Maintenance – 100,000/= (2 weeks)
  6. 3D Computer Animation – 150,000/= (2 weeks)
  7. Computerised Accounting – 350,000/= (4 weeks)
  8. Video Editing, Social Media & Content Creation – 500,000/= (6 weeks)
  9. Mobile Apps Development – 500,000/= (6 weeks)
  10. Python Full Stack Developer Course – 800,000/= (12 weeks)

PAYMENT PROCEDURE:  To book your slot, go to the Accounts Office, CIT  Block A, Level 2, and get a reference number. Proceed to any nearest bank and deposit training fees. 

CONTACT INFORMATION

The Center for Innovations and Professional Skills Development (CIPSD)
Block A – Front Office/Block B, Level 5
College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS)
Makerere University
Email: cicpsd@cis.mak.ac.ug
Tel: +256 753 200 013 | +256 782 512 897 | +256 752 779 964 | +256 752 373 023

Mark Wamai

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