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Mak Hosts International Workshop on Mainstreaming Gender in NORHED II Projects
Published
3 years agoon

Overview
Creating equal opportunities for men and women as well as boys and girls has long been an important priority for Norwegian development assistance. The 2030 Agenda and its17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) constitute the guiding frame for Norwegian development support.

As such, the Norwegian Programme for Capacity Building in Higher Education and Research for Development (NORHED) has special focus on SDG 4 (Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all), SDG 5 (Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls), and SDG 17 (Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize Global Partnerships for sustainable development). The Norwegian development policy mandates all Norwegian-supported institutions to integrate gender and equality as cross cutting issues in NORHED-funded Programmes.

Workshop on mainstreaming gender in NORHED II projects
On 30th August 2022, beneficiaries of the NORHED II projects in Eastern Africa convened at Laico Lake Victoria Hotel, Entebbe to discuss and brainstorm on ways of mainstreaming gender in NORHED II Projects. Held under the theme: “Gender Mainstreaming: Beyond Binaries”,the three-day workshop was attended by participants from Makerere University; Makerere University Business School (MUBS); Uganda Matyrs University; Technical University of Kenya (Nairobi); University of Juba (South Sudan);University of Dar es Salaam (Tanzania); University of Rwanda; Haramaya University, Dilla University, Hawassa University, and Bahir Dar University (Ethiopia); and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU).

The workshop was organized by Makerere University and NTNU in collaboration with partner institutions. It was coordinated by Prof. Frank Mugagga, Head, Department of Geography, Geo-informatics and Climatic Sciences at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, also coordinator, Capacity Building for Socially Just and Sustainable Energy Transitions (SET) project, as well as Charlotte Anne Nakakaawa-Jjunju from NTNU. The opening ceremony was presided over by Ms. Mary Mabweijano, Senior Programme Officer at the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Kampala. It was graced by the Director, Research and Graduate Training at Makerere University, represented by the Deputy Director, Prof. Robert Wamala, and Ms. Ingvild Heggstad from NTNU International Office, also Senior Adviser and coordinator for NORHED II.

Remarks by the Senior Programme Officer, Royal Norwegian Embassy, Kampala
Highlighting the importance of mainstreaming gender in NORHED projects as part of the Norwegian Development Policy, Ms Mary Mabweijano-Senior Programme Officer at the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Kampala re-emphasized the need to incorporate gender perspectives in curriculum, teaching, research, and governance. She called for increased participation of female students at post graduate level ‘where gender imbalance is most significant’.

“Special measures have been integrated to facilitate female participation in study programmes and research through scholarships, publication grants, mentorship programmes and leadership training. The expectation is that good results will be achieved by the end of the project cycles not only in research but also in areas of career advancement to senior leadership positions,” she explained, calling on the project beneficiaries to be ambassadors of gender mainstreaming.

Mainstreaming Gender in Higher Education and Research – Progress thus far
During the workshop, officials from Makerere University, Bahir DAR University (Ethiopia) and the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania briefed participants on progress made in mainstreaming gender in higher education and research at their respective institutions.

Presenting the policy framework for mainstreaming gender at Makerere University, Dr Euzobia Baine Mugisha, Director, Gender Mainstreaming acknowledged the support of the Norwegian Governmenttowards the establishment of the Department of Women and Gender Studies and the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) at Makerere. The mandate of the GMD is to mainstream gender in the University functions of teaching and learning; research and innovations; knowledge transfer partnerships and networking and support services. In her presentation, Dr Euzobia noted that although significant progress had been made,and several policies put in place to mainstream gender in all programmes, there was still significant imbalance with fewer women progressing to higher academic ranks and taking on leadership positions.

Out of 98 professors at Makerere University, only 16 are women. At Governance level, there are only 6 women in the University Council out of 18 members, 13 in the University Senate out of 76 and only 5 out of 17 members in Central Management. “Research is also still gender blind. As a University, we must be intentional about improving staff and students’ welfare and incorporating gender in all activities. Placing gender officers at each of the Colleges would enhance processes of mainstreaming gender in university programmes,” she noted, calling for a harmonized legal and policy framework to support gender mainstreaming activities at all levels. She also called for capacity building for all staff to fully appreciate and adopt the gender mainstreaming approach to teaching and learning as well as research and innovations.

Highlighting the progress in gender mainstreaming in Ethiopia, Dr. Meskerem Lechissa, Assistant Professor, Curriculum and Instruction at Bahir Dar University noted that although notable achievements had been registered in leadership with about 40% female ministers, Ethiopia still ranks among the bottom 35 countries in index for offering equal access to education to both boys and girls.“44% women are illiterate, compared to 59% men and only 26% of secondary school age females are enrolled in school,” she noted, explaining that a number of measures have been put in place to promote gender equality. These include affirmative action – lowering entry points for girls and putting in place a research budget for women and girls, expansion of universities to underserved Regions, National Code of Conduct for eliminating sexual harassment (Zero tolerance), establishment of Gender Offices in all higher education institutions, gender audit of infrastructures (gender sensitivity and security), economic support for disadvantaged girls, and contractual agreements signed by academic staff to employ gender responsive pedagogy.

Brainstorming on strategies for mainstreaming gender in NORHED II Projects
In the course of the workshop, participants discussed and shared strategies and activities for ensuring that gender issues are incorporated in the NORHED II Project activities. The NORHED II supported projects include EnergyNET led by Dr Karidewa Nyeinga from the College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University; Water Essence Africa led by Dr Ronald Semyalo (CoNAS, Mak); SET; Energy Economics and Governance; MERIT, JUST Transitions and CSA led by Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Makerere University; Adaptive Environmental Monitoring Networks for East Africa (AdeMNEA) led by Dr Agnes Rwashana Semwanga from Makerere University; Co-creating Knowledge for Local Adaptation to Climate Change in LDCs (COLOCAL); Capacity Building in Renewable Energy Research and Education in Ethiopia (ReREd) led by Dr Habtamu Temesgen Hawassa University; Capacity Building for Research-Based Teacher Education (CABUTE); Transformative Education and Lifelong Learning for Sustainable Growth (TELLS); and Gender and Digitalization (GENDIG) coordinated by the School of Women and Gender Studies Makerere University.

As part of the measures to improve gender mainstreaming in NORHED II projects, participants called for intensified gender trainings for gender focal persons and increased involvement of men in gender issues.They also emphasized the need to be more intentional about gender considerations in all project activities.

Delivering a keynote on gender mainstreaming in education and research, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, Principal, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Makerere University, also gender focal person -NORHED II Projects, re-echoed the importance of diversity and Inclusivity in ensuring equity in all aspects of Education.

In the course of the workshop, Dr Julianne Sansa –Otim, coordinator of the AdeMNEA project presented her research on persuasive technologies intended to boost psychological well-being among career women, whereas Dr. Angelina Bazugba from the University of Juba shared views on mainstreaming gender in pedagogy.

On behalf of the Director, Research and Graduate Training, Makerere University, the Deputy Director, Dr Robert Wamala emphasized the importance of mainstreaming gender on all activities at the University. “Gender considerations are crucial as we celebrate 100 years of excellent service and move towards becoming a research-led university. We should therefore dig deep into issues of gender in our pursuit to transform our countries,” he noted.
Details about NORHED II Projects: https://news.mak.ac.ug/2021/09/mak-listed-in-19-of-60-projects-to-be-funded-under-norhed-ii/
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Makerere University Strengthens Academic Leadership Through Capacity Building for Heads of Department
Published
1 day agoon
August 8, 2025By
Mak Editor
In a strategic move to enhance academic leadership and institutional efficiency, Makerere University conducted a comprehensive capacity-building and retooling workshop for all Heads of Department (HoDs) on August 5, 2025. The workshop, held at the Senate Conference Hall, brought together HoDs from various academic units to deepen their understanding of university academic policies, graduate training guidelines, and intellectual property management.
The training was organized under the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs. The session aimed at aligning departmental leadership with the University’s strategic goals, policies, and operational frameworks, particularly in relation to graduate education and research governance.
Opening the workshop, Prof. Buyinza Bukadasi, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), underscored the importance of strong departmental leadership in driving the University’s vision:

“The Head of Department is not merely an administrator; they are the academic engine of their unit. By equipping our HoDs with up-to-date policy knowledge, research management skills, and leadership tools, we are investing in the core structures that sustain academic excellence and innovation at Makerere.”
Emphasis on Graduate Policy and Structured PhD Training
Dr. Julius Kikooma, Director of the Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT), led an engaging presentation on the Makerere University Graduate Policies, Guidelines, and Procedures. His session unpacked critical updates in the revised 2024 Graduate Handbook, including:
- Removal of provisional admission for PhD by Research.
- A structured PhD framework requiring a minimum of three years and 40 credit units.
- Strengthened supervision standards and doctoral mentorship structures.
- Cohort-based admissions to improve program coherence and tracking.
- Integration of cross-cutting courses such as Scholarly Writing, Advanced Research Methods, and Teaching Assistantship into PhD training.
The new framework, supported by the Research Information Management System (RIMS), enhances monitoring of student progress and ensures timely completion of graduate programs. Dr. Kikooma emphasized the importance of departmental roles in guiding and supporting students, noting that departments serve as the primary disciplinary homes for graduate students and are key in fostering research cultures.

Understanding and Applying Intellectual Property Policies
The session also featured a detailed presentation on the Makerere University Intellectual Property Management Policy (2008, as amended), delivered by Counsel Esther Kabinga, Ag. Manager of the Intellectual Property Management Office (IPMO). Participants were guided through the obligations and rights related to IP created by staff, students, and visitors.
The presentation highlighted:
- Ownership structures for IP generated at the University.
- Procedures for disclosing, protecting, and commercializing IP.
- Roles of departments in supporting creators and liaising with IPMO.
- Revenue-sharing mechanisms and the inclusion of IP outputs in staff promotion criteria.
Counsel Kabinga encouraged HoDs to promote awareness of IP rights and responsibilities within their units, especially given the increasing volume of research outputs and innovations emerging from the University.
Strategic Alignment with the University’s Research Agenda
The workshop is part of broader efforts to implement the Makerere University Research Agenda 2025/26 – 2029/30, which prioritizes talent development, research visibility, and knowledge transfer. According to Dr. Robert Wamala, Director of the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Partnerships (DRIP), strengthening administrative and academic capacity at departmental level is critical for sustaining Makerere’s status as a leading research institution.

The Research Agenda also supports the operationalization of structures like the IP Management Committee and GAMSU (Grants Administration and Support Unit), both of which are instrumental in streamlining research support services.
The training reaffirmed Makerere University‘s commitment to continuous professional development and the strategic empowerment of academic leaders. With a renewed understanding of policies and tools, Heads of Department are now better equipped to foster academic excellence, supervise graduate research, and steward innovation at the departmental level.
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UNDP and Mak Launch Daycare Centre and Multimedia Studio to Boost Gender Equality and Digital Inclusion
Published
2 days agoon
August 7, 2025By
Eve Nakyanzi
Makerere University, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Uganda, has launched two transformative facilities, a Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), and a state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility. These facilities mark a major milestone in the University’s commitment to gender equality, student and staff welfare, and digital innovation in higher education.
A Milestone for Gender Equality: Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre
Mr. Ian King, the Ag. Resident Representative, UNDP Uganda, speaking at launch of the Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre emphasized the importance of the Gender Equality Seal (GES) initiative, funded by the European Union (EU). He applauded the Institute for being the first in Africa to participate in the GES.
Mr. King highlighted the role of the facility to mothers and some fathers in ensuring children’s safety and peace of mind for parents. He further commended the Institute for demonstrating what can be achieved through the programme. He stressed the importance of setting high standards for child care centres and making spaces safe for young parents. The Daycare centre is intended to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children and relief for mothers and fathers to focus on their work and studies.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor, noted that the centre will be crucial in supporting breastfeeding mothers—particularly students and staff—to continue their academic and professional pursuits. Recalling a time when women were barely represented in the University Senate, he acknowledged the significant strides Makerere has made, while also noting ongoing gaps in graduate gender equity.
“The majority of graduates are women, but there are still issues of equity at the graduate level. I think there are still issues that we must solve, and one of them is helping mothers who are students and members of staff to continue with what they do, even when they have got babies to look after because that’s one of the reasons, I think, why many students drop out just because they become mothers,” he added.

He acknowledged that the facility will come in handy for addressing challenges, including balancing motherhood with academic or professional responsibilities. He extended appreciation to UNDP for their long-standing partnership in transforming Makerere into a more inclusive and modern academic institution.
The Head of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), Prof. Sarah Ssali, in her remarks, thanked the Vice Chancellor who catered for the Daycare Centre while designing the building. Prof. Ssali highlighted that the Daycare describes Makerere University‘s history and its commitment to gender equality and inclusion. She highlighted that the University has over 20 gender policies and interventions—with some directly impacting gender equality and others improving the work ecosystem—for example, digitization, quality assurance programmes and scholarship programmes. “But this is the first that directly addresses the needs of both students and staff—mothers and fathers alike—through a shared space for child care,” she said.

Ms. Donna Keirungi, a mother and alumna of the University, shared her personal journey on how challenging it is to balance both studying and childcare. She highlighted that the Daycare Centre aims to make the various policies on gender equality and women’s empowerment practical, and to support the University’s commitment to Gender Equality. The Centre aims to fulfil the University’s Strategic Plan 2020–2030’s emphasis on creating an enabling environment and work-life balance.
“The journey to establish the centre began in 2022 with support from the UNDP, including benchmarking at a well-established Daycare Centre in Parliament. The centre is open to children aged zero to five years, including those of students and staff members,” she highlighted.

The Daycare Centre is unique in that it benefits all members of the University community, including single fathers and students.
H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James, the 91st Guild President, thanked UNDP and the organising committee for their efforts in making the facility a reality, describing it as a testament to the University’s commitment to gender equity, student welfare, and removing barriers for parenting students. He highlighted the importance of peace of mind for students, especially mothers, and how the facility will help them balance their roles.
Advancing Digital Transformation: New Multimedia Studio Launched
In a separate but equally impactful launch at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Mr. Ian King described the studio as a strategic milestone in the University’s vision to modernise higher education and foster flexible learning. Mr. King noted that Uganda has made significant progress in digital inclusion with over 13 million internet users. He emphasized that the facility aims to address gaps in digital skills access—with only 3% of the population currently benefiting—and promote digital inclusion in line with the pillars of the Digital Economy Scorecard.

He also expressed confidence that the next Digital Economy Scorecard will show improved figures due to the efforts of Makerere and other universities. The digital studio will provide a dedicated space equipped with modern infrastructure to facilitate equitable access to digital skills development. He encouraged full utilization of the studio to maximise its impact on teaching, learning and skills development. He further thanked the Makerere University Management and development partners for their financial contributions that enabled the studio’s realization.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe expressed gratitude to the UNDP for their long-time support, especially with facilities like the Makerere University Innovation Pod (Mak UniPod). He thanked the UNDP for contributing to the modernisation of the University. The Vice Chancellor pledged to use the facility to build capacity across all disciplines and provide knowledge to a wider audience online.

He noted that Africa’s enrolment in higher education is the lowest in the world despite having the fastest-growing population, emphasizing the importance of providing high-quality education to as many people as possible, both on-campus and online. “I’m happy that this facility looks even more diverse than ones I have seen,” he said, expressing his gratitude to UNDP. The Vice Chancellor also highlighted the impact of the UNDP’s support towards unleashing talent and fostering innovation among students. “So by bringing the UniPod, you helped us unlock so much talent, and these students can now come up with the innovations which can be commercialised and create jobs for our fast-growing populations,” said Prof. Nawangwe.
Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, the Director, Makerere University Institute of Open Distance and e-Learning (IODel), said that the studio brings a significant leap in content production for e-learning. He expressed gratitude to UNDP for providing the necessary equipment to compete with world-class universities. He highlighted that e-learning courses are now incorporating multimedia elements like video and sound, moving on from the text-based model.

He further mentioned the preference of the younger generation for visual and interactive content, making multimedia content essential for effective teaching and learning. Prof. Muyinda explained how the new multimedia studio will allow for more authentic and context-specific e-learning content, enhancing student engagement. He emphasized that the University is focusing on four key areas: training staff on studio usage, AI literacy, online facilitation, and teaching learners how to use e-learning technology. He underscored the importance of continuous innovation and adaptation in e-learning to keep up with global standards.
Dr. Godfrey Mayende revealed that all science units can also be taught in this Multimedia Studio. He said that the studio provides the naturalness of a class setting as it gives space for students to physically sit in the studio room as the lecturer is teaching or recording a lecture.

The two facilities; Daycare Centre and Multimedia Studio, are the latest in a series of initiatives borne out of the strong partnership between Makerere University and the United Nations Development Programme, including the previously launched Mak UniPod and Gender Equality Seal for Public Institutions. The abovementioned developments offer clear demonstration that Makerere University and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have a strong partnership focused on fostering innovation and development in Uganda and beyond.
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