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EfD-Mak hosts the Annual Policy Day 2022 with a special call on Governments & donors to Finance Resilience & Adaptation

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Uganda is among the most vulnerable countries to the effects of climate change in the world, being the 15th most vulnerable and 49th least prepared to adapt and recover from impacts of climate change.

Environmental economics from Makerere University and stakeholders from Environment and Natural Resources  agencies have expressed  the need for green financing  for sustainable development, Optimum utilization of natural resource, Adaptation to climate change impacts, Increased climate change  mitigation measure actions and Reduction in public expenditure on related natural disaster shocks.

The call was made was during the Annual Policy Day 2022 organized by the Environment for Development Initiative (EfD-Mak Centre) under the theme, “Green Financing and Capacity Gaps”.

The policy dialogue attracted over 100 participants from the academia, policy makers, experts and representatives from Uganda’s Ministries, departments and agencies, Civil Society Organisations, the private sector as well as members from the World Bank, the EfD network, and the  EfD Global hub led by  the EfD Global Director Prof. Gunnar Kohlin.

Members of the EfD Global hub and EfD-Mak Advisory Board pose for a group photo after the opening.
Members of the EfD Global hub and EfD-Mak Advisory Board pose for a group photo after the opening.

The Annual policy day was a wrap up of the EfD Annual conference  2022 hosted by Makerere University at the Speke resort Munyonyo on 22nd-26th September, 2022 where  participants had  fruitful engagements intended to find solutions to the most pressing environmental problems affecting the  continent.

The annual policy day was officially opened by the EfD-Mak Advisory Board Chair, who is also the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs of Makerere University.

“The EfD-Mak Centre is proud to be part of the global network of environmental economics research centers working to solve the world’s most pressing environmental and development challenges through policy-relevant research, capacity development and policy engagement. Allow me, at this juncture, to sincerely thank our long term partner – Sida, as well as the EfD Global Hub for having established an EfD Centre at Makerere University”, Kakumba said.

Annual policy day and theme timely for centennial celebrations and climate change

Kakumba said, the Annual policy day is significant on two fronts in that it comes to fit in a series of activities and celebrations marking Makerere University’s 100 years of excellent services to humanity:-having opened its doors to only 14 students in 1922, Makerere University has grown to become one of the most prestigious Universities in Africa and the world over.

Secondly, Kakumba noted that the theme of the policy day, focusing on Green Financing and Capacity gaps, is quite timely especially during this time when climate change is seriously affecting different parts of the world, including Uganda as witnessed by the changed weather patterns.

Prof. Umar Kakumba making the official opening remarks.
Prof. Umar Kakumba making the official opening remarks.

“There is a great need for Government and development partners to finance resilience and adaptation activities or projects. However, I must note that resilience and adaptation are new areas. Hence, governments have not been deliberately allocating resources in their favor.

 Therefore, as Makerere University, we have a great task of building the capacity of government officials in these new areas of resilience and adaptation to climate change”, he said.

Kakumba reported that the university   held productive engagements with officials from the World Resources Institute (WRI) who are interested in supporting the university to kick-start the Resilience and Adaptation Mainstreaming Programme (RAMP). RAMP is proposed to be a long-term capacity building programme for MDAs to integrate climate risk considerations into their macroeconomics, fiscal, public financial management, procurement, and other processes and research.

A section of participants.
A section of participants.

In February 2022, Kakumba said, Makerere University signed a MoU with the University Network for Strengthening Macro financial Resilience to Climate and Environmental Change. The Network, whose Secretariat is hosted by SOAS, at the University of London, was established to build capacity in RAMP. This resilience and Adaptation Mainstreaming Programme will complement the inclusive Green Economy Programme for Senior Civil Servants and Policy Makers in Eastern Africa, which we are implementing in collaboration with the University of Gothenburg.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor thanked theEfD Global Hub for not only establishing an EfD-Mak Centre but also working very hard to ensure that all the aforementioned initiatives to the EfD-Mak Centre thrive.

“The EfD-Mak Centre has continuously received funding and equipment from EfD Global Hub to support its administrative and research activities. This has widely contributed towards strengthening the connection between the Centre’s researchers and academicians to policy makers and implementers.

All participants pose for a group photo after the closing ceremony.
All participants pose for a group photo after the closing ceremony.

We can now attest to a number of policy engagements that the Centre has conducted, some of which have already resulted in tangible policy reforms and good outcomes. I once again thank the Global Hub for its role towards changing this landscape where we can now collaborate effectively with government officials for research activities, policy discussions and uptake.” Kakumba commended.

Kakumba added that this Annual policy day  was in line with a series of policy engagements that the EfD-Mak Centre has implemented since inception.  He however, stressed that this  wasvery special because the EfD Global Hub Director and the EfD Network members were  here in person to contribute to the debate and discourse in the important area of Green Financing.

Green financing and capacity building huge tasks for the university

In his welcome remarks,the  Principal Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences Assoc. Professor Eria Hisali welcomed participants to the EfD-Mak policy day  and in a special way welcomed the EfD Global Director Kohlin Gunnar to the EfD-Mak centre thanking him for choosing Uganda to host the EfD Annual meeting 2022 congratulating the network upon successful hosting.

Prof. Eria Hisali speaking during the dialogue.
Prof. Eria Hisali speaking during the dialogue.

Hisali thanked the board of the EfD-Mak Centre chaired by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs  for the continued guidance on the strategic direction of the centre, noting that this was a manifestation that the centre was institutionalized in the university structures.

The Principal appreciated the EfD -Mak centre for its contribution of the visibility of the college and the university at large pledging continued support to the centre activities and urged the centre to take advantage of the infrastructure at the college to conduct activities;

Hisali reported that the college has established a number of facilities that the centre can take advantage of including working paper series, rolled out the policy laboratories at the college that bring together policy makers, implementers, the private sector development partners and researchers to regularly discuss policy related issues.

He expressed hope that the next annual policy day would be handled under the auspices of the policy laboratory noting that the advantage is that it brings together different actors  in one place and they contribute to the discussion which increases uptake.

Some of the participants attending the dialogue.
Some of the participants attending the dialogue.

The policy laboratory he said,was also handling a special assignment on behalf of government on the Parish Development Model. He also said the college received notification from Uganda National Council for Science and Technology on the clearance of the college’s institutional review board for purposes of accreditation and going forward whoever wants to go for field activities is welcome to use the college research and ethics committee.

“We are all are alive to the dangers that changes in the environment affects sustainable growth and the future planning. I salute the center for holding the dialogue because the discussions held are not only important  but also hybrid providing insights into the problems being faced and what needs to be done in the perspective of financing and capacity gaps that exist..

Green financing as we know, lies at the future of our growth, the future of our existence as human beings both for the current and future generations to come and therefore deserves all the attention;This is important n our context as developing countries because much of our activities in our setting directly depends on nature but also facing a lot of pressure from the ever increasing population”, Hisali stated.

Hisali challenged participants to look at a number of issues including the categorization of the target groups for green financing factions, the most appropriate instruments for the different target groups, the framework for auditing progress and impacts of these interventions and the need  to discuss the optimal balance between what needs to be done by the private sector, governments, public sector and other actors.

Some of the participants at the dialogue.
Some of the participants at the dialogue.

“With regard to capacity building I also want to agree that we need to build capacity at all levels right from the capacity to domesticate what is enshrined in international conventions into our domestic plans and activities.

 But we also need to think about capacity through which we can equip the grassroots actors, the green financing actions are not stopping at the macro national level. These actions have to go up to the grassroot”

Hisali stressed that the issues of capacity gaps was  a huge task  and asked participants to deliberate  and focus on  where to start from to create the impact being  looking for, how  the EfD-Mak Centre can partner with other actors in this space to speed up the capacity building efforts, how to take advantage of  the location at the university and mainstream the capacity building initiatives into the curriculum of some of the academic programs and which programs would it be and where to start from.

Other insights according to Prof. Hisali were the need to ask how to take advantage of the internship and outreach activities of the university to build capacity at the grass root level, how to equip these interns to deliver the right message to the grass root actors and whether there is hope for increasing the frequency of the short course capacity building initiatives.

The EfD Global foot print

The Director Global Hub Prof.  Gunnar Köhlin said the hub has international researchers and academic institutions involved in research projects with the EfD Centers in the Global South, Africa, Asia and the America and EfD Partners in the Global North. In Africa, it operates in Makerere University, university of Dar es salaam and university of  Nigeria, Ghana and other countries

Prof. Gunnar Kohlin delivering his opening remarks.
Prof. Gunnar Kohlin delivering his opening remarks.

“EfD is based on the frustration that there is so much knowledge in universities and that it so hard to get traction of that research and there is so much gaps to make that happen.

In research and policy interaction the hub provides funds for tailor research results for target groups, creates platforms for interactions and co-production of knowledge.

Under Institutional development, funds are availed for infrastructure and staff investments, mutual learning within the network”, Gunnar explained.

Under research collaboration, Prof. Gunnar said the hub provides Research fund and collaborative research, organizes collaborative research and policy relevant topics and capacity building for different actors.

“The first most fundamental is the need to build capacity of academics in universities but they should also  provide the relevant information and build capacity for other actors in their respective societies for these people to work. Provision of information and capacity building is not enough but must work hard to influence policy by organizing collaborative programs,” Gunnar added

He said funds are  provided for PhD specialization courses, PhD Program in Climate Economics At the University of Gothenburg and then PhD and MSc program support to the network centres

Prof Gunnar explained that they have implemented a program, Inclusive Green Economy for senior civil servants and policy makers, a capacity development program connecting societal needs with research capacity in five areas of transformation namely Sustainable energy transition, Low carbon transition, Biodiversity transition, Circularity transition, Financing and managing IGE transition

The network has had a number of publications categorized by SDG with highest number on SDG 17 (331) and SDG 15(291)Other programs sponsored include; Blue Resources for Development (BlueRforD), Emission Princing for Development (EPFD), Inclusive Green Economy, Natural Capital Collaboration (Natcap), Sustainable Energy Transition (SETI), Women in Environmental Economics

The Annual Policy Day 2022 very Special

The Director EfD-Mak Centre Prof. Edward Bbaale thanked the participants for honoring the invitation to attend this special policy day;

Prof. Edwaard Bbaale giving his welcome remarks.
Prof. Edwaard Bbaale giving his welcome remarks.

Bbaale recognised the Director EfD-Global network Prof.  Gunnar Kohlin and other network members for coming to Makerere for the first time to engage in the discussion making it very special adding that the centre had previously held policy dialogues with national stakeholders.

Bbaale appreciated the local stakeholders from government ministries, departments and agencies,senior civil servants and policy makers from Uganda for reserving time amidst their tight schedules to attend.

“I also appreciate the panelists . You have started a discourse in the area of green financing which the center will follow up and came up with research projects to create evidence to guide government on policy changes.

There is need for capacity building in the area of green financing in terms of research and training. We need to pay attention to Climate parameters and macro-economic modelling issues and also pay attention in and outside  the university on tailored short courses for government and other officials”.

Prof. Bbaale hailed Makerere University management for offering space for the dialogue and the local organising committee for the job well done.

Panelists speak on green financing

The Natural Resources officer Wakiso district Ms. Rebecca Sabaganzi,said Green financing seems to be very far and advocating for it seems  far.

Ms. Rebecca Sabaganzi contributing during the dialogue.
Ms. Rebecca Sabaganzi contributing during the dialogue.

“The ENR sector has not been a priority in government programs and budget but this has been slowly and progressively having impact on us and we have been forced to act. There are several policy statements that push us to act but the actual implementation is the issue.

In local governments, however much you advocate for green financing, it’s the councilor’s allowance that come first. Because of the increasing number of policy makers amidst the limited budgeting, advocacy for green financing is not prioritized.

The facilitation to enable meaningful engagements and green financing are limited by budget as government priority is in other sectors such as roads, health and education,”. She said

Panelists  Victoria Plukshack, Ronald Kaggwa, Sam Mugume, Marc Jeuland and Rebecca Sabaganzi.
Panelists Victoria Plukshack, Ronald Kaggwa, Sam Mugume, Marc Jeuland and Rebecca Sabaganzi.

World Bank representative Victoria Plutshack, Energy Access Project at Duke university observed that  Climate Finance’s Adaptation is problematic and  not meeting needs of the low and medium income countries.

Victoria noted that Climate investments targeting adaptation have been especially lacking because of, in part, a lack of data and clarity regarding the potential impact of these investments.

“Data-driven financial mechanisms that quantify and monetize adaptation impacts are needed to mobilize climate finance and prioritize development for greatest impact.

There is domestic financing available but is predominantly available in higher income countries and where the private sector play a significant role.

EfD Global hub Communications expert Petra Hansson interacts with Rebecca Sabaganzi after the panel discussions.
EfD Global hub Communications expert Petra Hansson interacts with Rebecca Sabaganzi after the panel discussions.

In sub-Saharan Africa, we see climate financing by private companies. Sub-Saharan Africa receives about 100 million dollars from multinational agencies and about 18million dollars from the private sector. In terms of progress it is abit slow but hope that with the proposals and problems  faced today the situation will be better,”she said.

Dr. Sam Mugume Koojo from the Ministry of Finance highlighted major challenges facing green financing in Uganda.

“ Challenges of green financing include; Lack of expertise and knowledge in green financing by financial institutions in Uganda. Green financing is not clearly integrated in financial regulatory policies of the country while investments in the green financing areas are not very attractive to private sector. The central bank has not fully internalized the concept,  emphasis is mostly on the risk side” He said.

Sam Mugume delivering his keynote address.
Sam Mugume delivering his keynote address.

He said the major areas for green financing include: Renewable energy and energy efficiency, Pollution prevention and control, Biodiversity conservation, Circular and blue economy initiatives and Sustainable use of natural resources and land.

He said government has come up with  Toolkits for Greening the Financial Sector including  the Green finance road map tool, the National task force, Climate and Environ Risk assessment,  Disclosure and Reporting, Greening FIs and  Corporate green bonds.

Dr. Ronald Kaggwa from the National Planning Authority Uganda reported that  the authority   develops indicators and NDPIII has a results framework based on three pillars  namely;. environment and natural resource, industry and also based on governance.

Dr. Ronald Kaggwa responding to some questions during the dialogue.
Dr. Ronald Kaggwa responding to some questions during the dialogue.

To harmonise the indicators Kaggwa said they issue planning guidelines at the central level and local government showing results, measurements and what level and targets to achieve.

The authority he added has also the green growth indicators developed.Those guidelines give a good framework on which these indicators are anchored. MDAs are also requested to develop planning frameworks which must be aligned to the NDPIII and Vision 2040 while all sectors contribute to the attainment of the national vision.

“There is a section on monetary framework which has a targets of attaining the broader NDP targets and vision 2040. It  is the private sector outside the planning horizon but are influenced through taxation and other financial instruments  but are not captured in the planning matrix “ Kaggwa said.

Marc Jueland speaking during the discussions.
Marc Jueland speaking during the discussions.

The planning is based on government programs and sector programs are tuned towards attaining common results to allow harmonization of projects and institutional goals working together asa team.

NDPIII also addresses that through program based planning which have targets such as the  human capital development and all sectors like health, education, gender contribute to it to harmonise the budgets.

Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer, EfD-Mak Centre Uganda.

Jane Anyango

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RIMS Implementation to End Supervision Delays, Enhance Transparency, Close Gaps and Boost Research Excellence at Makerere University

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Prof. Julius Kikooma and Prof. Ruth Nsibirano during the visit to IGDS on 27th March 2026. Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) digital transformation in graduate education with the implementation of the Research Information Management System (RIMS), a platform expected to end supervision delays, enhance transparency, close long-standing gaps, and boost research excellence, 27th March 2026, Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Moses Lutaaya

Kampala, Uganda27th March 2026: Makerere University has intensified its push toward digital transformation in graduate education with the implementation of the Research Information Management System (RIMS), a platform expected to end supervision delays, enhance transparency, close long-standing gaps, and boost research excellence.

Leading this shift, the Director of Graduate Training at Makerere University, Prof. Julius Kikooma, emphasized that the initiative is part of ongoing collaboration with academic units.

“Our visit to the Institute of Gender and Development Studies is part of continuous engagement to strengthen graduate training,” Prof. Kikooma said. “RIMS is not just about technology—it is about improving how students and supervisors work together, how progress is tracked, and how the university ensures quality and timely completion.”

He noted that the university is already making strides in graduate output, citing a recent milestone of over 200 PhD graduates, with 40 percent female representation—an indicator of progress toward gender equity.

“We want to push that to 50 percent,” he said. “RIMS will help us get there by providing data, improving coordination, and addressing inefficiencies in supervision and monitoring.”

Prof. Kikooma emphasized that the system will also support the university’s broader goals, including internationalization and improved research productivity, by streamlining application, supervision, and reporting processes.

“With digitization now fully underway, we cannot go back,” he said. “RIMS will allow supervisors to track student performance in real time, and management will be able to access accurate reports at the click of a button.”

He added that adoption of the system is mandatory for all academic staff, noting that it will become a key tool for measuring performance and institutional accountability.

Building on this vision, Prof. Ruth Nsibirano, Director of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies, highlighted how RIMS will directly address supervision gaps that have historically affected graduate completion.

“I’m very certain RIMS is going to bridge the gap between supervisors and supervisees,” she said. “It will ensure constant updates, structured engagement, and clear records of progress for every student.”

Prof. Julius Kikooma (L) and Prof. Ruth Nsibirano (R). Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) digital transformation in graduate education with the implementation of the Research Information Management System (RIMS), a platform expected to end supervision delays, enhance transparency, close long-standing gaps, and boost research excellence, 27th March 2026, Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Julius Kikooma (L) and Prof. Ruth Nsibirano (R).

Prof. Nsibirano explained that one of the major challenges in the past has been the lack of visibility in supervision, where both students and supervisors operated without clear documentation of their interactions.

“Knowledge of what was happening was often missing because supervisors and students remained distant,” she said. “Now, there will be records showing when supervision took place, what was discussed, and who has not been responsive.”

She noted that this transparency will significantly improve efficiency and reduce delays on both sides.

“Both students and supervisors will know that their work is being tracked,” she said. “This awareness alone will improve accountability and reduce unnecessary delays.”

However, she cautioned that while RIMS will strengthen supervision systems, financial challenges facing graduate students remain a critical issue.

“We must also address the reality of limited financial support,” she said. “Even with strong systems, students still need resources to complete their studies.”

Prof. Nsibirano expressed confidence that both staff and students are ready to adopt the digital platform, noting that familiarity with technology is no longer a major barrier.

At the operational level, Dr. Julius Mugisa, Coordinator of Graduate Studies at the Institute, underscored the practical impact RIMS will have on day-to-day supervision.

“In fact, it is a very good system. It will facilitate easy supervision,” Dr. Mugisa said. “Previously, you could send comments to a student and wait five weeks without a response. Now, the system will clearly show who is delaying and who is not.”

He emphasized that the transparency of RIMS will eliminate guesswork and misunderstandings by ensuring that all supervision activities are recorded and accessible.

“There will be clear evidence of engagement—comments, timelines, and responses,” he said. “This removes the blame game and helps everyone focus on progress.”

Dr. Mugisa dismissed concerns that increased monitoring might intimidate supervisors, instead framing it as a positive step toward professionalism.

“We are here to do our work for the university,” he said. “The system is not about punishment—it is about improving efficiency and ensuring that responsibilities are fulfilled.”

He added that the accountability introduced by RIMS will encourage timely feedback and active participation from both supervisors and students.

“When you know the system is tracking progress, it helps you stay on course,” he said. “Monitoring is important, and it benefits everyone.”

Dr. Mugisa also noted that improved supervision and faster feedback could enhance Makerere University’s attractiveness to prospective graduate students.

“Students want assurance that their work will be reviewed on time,” he said. “With RIMS, that confidence will increase, and more students will be encouraged to enroll.”

As Makerere University continues to implement RIMS across its academic units, leaders believe the system will mark a turning point in graduate education—driving efficiency, strengthening accountability, closing supervision gaps, and positioning the institution as a leader in research excellence in Africa.

Mak Editor

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Custodians and Wardens trained on Fire prevention in Halls of Residence

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A male participant puts out a fire during a practical demonstrations on the use of fire extinguishers on 26th March 2026. Office of the Dean of Students hands-on training focused on equipping custodians and wardens with essential skills and knowledge on fire prevention, evacuation procedures and response strategies in case of emergencies in halls of residence, March 26, 2026, at University Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Staff members from the Office of the Dean of Students have undergone a hands-on training on fire safety and prevention in halls of residence.

The training, held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at University Hall, focused on equipping custodians and wardens with essential skills and knowledge on fire prevention, evacuation procedures and response strategies in case of emergencies.

“In our safeguarding initiatives, we want to create an environment that is safe and secure for our students and staff. Given that we have experienced fires at the University, we decided to train custodians and wardens because they are the first responders and decision-makers in case a fire breaks out in any Hall of Residence,” said Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students.

Dr. WInifred Kabumbuli addresses participants. Office of the Dean of Students hands-on training focused on equipping custodians and wardens with essential skills and knowledge on fire prevention, evacuation procedures and response strategies in case of emergencies in halls of residence, March 26, 2026, at University Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. WInifred Kabumbuli addresses participants.

In 2020, Makerere University’s Main Building, commonly known as the Ivory Tower, caught fire, destroying valuable property. Earlier in 2018, a fire gutted Mary Stuart Hall, a female residence. The fire, which started in the ground-floor canteen, spread to other floors but was successfully contained by the Uganda Police.

Speaking in February 2025 during the release of the 2024 Annual Crime Report at the Police Headquarters in Naguru, the Director of Fires and Rescue Services, AIGP Stephen Tanui, revealed that Kampala Metropolitan recorded the highest number of fire incidents in the Country with 933 cases in 2024.

Participants pose for a group photo at the University Hall Staircase. Office of the Dean of Students hands-on training focused on equipping custodians and wardens with essential skills and knowledge on fire prevention, evacuation procedures and response strategies in case of emergencies in halls of residence, March 26, 2026, at University Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants pose for a group photo at the University Hall Staircase.

He warned that Uganda’s rapid urbanisation would increase fire incidents unless deliberate prevention measures are adopted.

“We have had fire incidents at Africa Hall, Nsibirwa and Livingstone. Some students also prepare their own meals, which increases the risk of fire outbreaks. It is therefore timely for our staff to acquire basic knowledge on fire prevention and how to respond effectively when a fire occurs,” Dr. Kabumbuli noted.

Speaking to the participants, Mr. Levi Mwesigye, a certified fire safety trainer with NCOSAH Consults (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), emphasized the importance of proactive fire prevention. He explained that three elements, heat, fuel and oxygen are necessary for a fire to exist.

Participants follow proceedings during the theoretical part of training. Office of the Dean of Students hands-on training focused on equipping custodians and wardens with essential skills and knowledge on fire prevention, evacuation procedures and response strategies in case of emergencies in halls of residence, March 26, 2026, at University Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants follow proceedings during the theoretical part of training.

“Always ensure that fire detection systems are in place to identify fires at an early stage. Additionally, ensure fire protection systems such as portable extinguishers are functional and regularly serviced so that fires can be contained promptly,” advised.

In his presentation, Mr. Mwesigye also urged Wardens to install clear directional signage in Halls of Residence to enhance safety and facilitate quick evacuation during emergencies.

“Fires spread much faster than you might think. Always have a backup escape plan in case your main escape route becomes blocked. If you can’t put out the fire in 5 secondsor less, the fire is too large. Get out and always prioritize persons with disabilities, women, the sick, and other vulnerable individuals to ensure they are evacuated safely,” Mr. Mwesigye, said.

Participants listen to instructions from one of the trainers. Office of the Dean of Students hands-on training focused on equipping custodians and wardens with essential skills and knowledge on fire prevention, evacuation procedures and response strategies in case of emergencies in halls of residence, March 26, 2026, at University Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants listen to instructions from one of the trainers.

Apart from training the staff about fire safety at the University, the staff also received fire prevention tips applicable to their homes such as;  never to sleep in a house without water, to always have a centralized place where they keep the house key so that it is easy to find during evacuation.

“For those who have gas cylinders at home, in case of a leakage, open doors and windows to reduce the concentration of gas. If the cylinder catches fire, soak a towel or blanket in water and use it to cover the cylinder. This can help to put out the fire,” Mr. Mwesigye explained.

When using a fire extinguisher

Participants received practical demonstrations on the use of fire extinguishers and learned how to identify and manage small-scale fires before they escalate into life-threatening emergencies. Tips included:

  • Stand several feet away from the fire, only moving closer once the fire starts to diminish.
  • Use a slow, sweeping motion and aim the fire extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire.
  •  If possible, use a “buddy system” to have someone back you up or to call for help if something goes wrong.
  • Be sure to watch the area for a while to ensure the fire does not re-ignite.

Deciding to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Before attempting to put out a fire with a portable fire extinguisher, one must quickly answer the following questions:

  • Have the building’s occupants been notified?
  • Has someone called the Fire Brigade?
  • Are the exit routes clear and safely accessible?
  • Do I have the right type of extinguisher for the type of fire?
  • Is the extinguisher large enough for the fire?
  • Is the fire small and containable?

If the Answer to the above is NO, Then;

  • Leave the building immediately.
  • Shut all doors as you leave to slow the spread of the fire.
  • As soon as you get out of the building, call the Police.

Carol Kasujja
Carol Kasujja Adii

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Makerere University Charts New Future with the unveiling of the Open, Distance and E‑Learning Building and Strategic Plan

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DVCAA-Prof. Sarah Ssali (3rd L) and KOICA Uganda Country Director-Ms. Jihee Ahn (3rd R) flanked by officials unveil the foundation stone for the ODeL Facility on 24th March 2026. Official launch of Open, Distance and E‑Learning (ODeL) Strategic Plan and the laying of the foundation stone for a new ODeL facility at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), 24th March 2026, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Harriet Musinguzi, CEDAT

Makerere University has embarked on a transformative journey in higher education with the official launch of its Open, Distance and E‑Learning (ODeL) Strategic Plan and the laying of the foundation stone for a new ODeL facility at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT). The event, attended by dignitaries, university leaders, and international partners, marked a milestone in Uganda’s quest to harness digital technology for accessible, innovative, and inclusive education.

Presiding over the ceremony, Ms. Jihee Ahn, Country Director of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), underscored the spirit of collaboration that has defined the project. She praised the collective efforts of Korean partners, Makerere’s project management team, and the construction and consulting teams.

Quoting an African proverb, she reminded the audience that “a single stick cannot make fire”, emphasizing that the success of the initiative lies in shared purpose and unity. Drawing from Korean wisdom, she added, “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” noting that this launch is the first step toward positioning Makerere as a leader in open and distance education across Africa.

“This new building will not be just a physical structure but a driving force that advances our shared vision,” Ms. Ahn said. “KOICA looks forward to continued cooperation with Makerere University and all partners as we move forward together.” she added.

Representing the University Council Chairperson Dr. Lorna Magara, Dr. Silas Ngabirano highlighted the broader significance of the ODeL project. He described it as a turning point in bridging the gap between traditional teaching methods and modern learning needs. “This project is more than just providing technology,” he said. “It’s about enhancing capacity for our students, faculty, and staff. It’s about making education more accessible and affordable, fostering innovation, creativity, and lifelong learning.” He urged staff and students to embrace the opportunities offered by online distance learning, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to supporting initiatives that expand access to higher education.

Prof. Sarah Ssali, (DVC F&A) representing Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, highlights e-learning as a central pillar in Makerere University’s Strategic Plan (2026–2030).

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Prof. Sarah Ssali, emphasized that e‑learning is a central pillar in Makerere’s Strategic Plan (2026–2030). She noted that the initiative aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan IV, which prioritizes digital transformation by 2030.

“ODeL provides opportunities for students inside and outside Uganda to engage in learning, access cutting-edge research, and participate in innovation and entrepreneurship,” he said. “Now that ODeL is getting a home, there is no excuse for not delivering.”

Dignitaries and stakeholders at Makerere University witness the unveiling of the ODeL Strategic Plan, marking a new chapter in institutional growth and innovation.

Prof. Nawangwe expressed gratitude to KOICA and the people of Korea for the US$12.2 milliongrant, describing it as a testament to Makerere’s reputation as a center of academic excellence and innovation. He also acknowledged the support of Uganda’s Ministry of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.

Principal Investigator Prof. Henry Alinaitwe makes his remarks alongside members of the project steering committee;  Dr. Venny Nakazibwe (Co-PI), Prof. Paul Muyinda, Dr. Godfrey Mayende, Mr. Samuel Mugabi, Mr. Alex Mwebaze, Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere, and Dr. Lydia Mazzi Ndandiko

The Principal Investigator, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, outlined three core components of the project: the development of the ODeL Masterplan, the enhancement of e‑learning infrastructure through a state‑of‑the‑art facility and modern equipment, and capacity building to equip staff with the skills needed to create high‑quality digital content. He explained that the construction, valued at USD 3.7 million, is being undertaken by SMS Construction Ltd, with designs developed by ArchForum Consultants Ltd, and is scheduled for completion by September 29, 2027.

Prof. Henry Alinaitwe explained that the ODeL Masterplan was developed through a highly consultative process, engaging numerous Makerere University staff and working closely with project consultants to ensure inclusivity and relevance. He expressed deep appreciation to the implementing partners, the Korea National Open University (KNOU) and the Korea Institute ofDevelopment Strategy (KDS) for their invaluable support in making the initiative a success.

Guests and stakeholders who witnessed the launch of Makerere University’s ODeL Strategic Plan and the commissioning of the ODeL building pose for a commemorative photo, March 24th, 2025 at CEDAT.

Prof. Alinaitwe also commended the Makerere University Council for approving the allocation of space and committing to maintain the building and systems once operational. He recognized the dedication of the project implementation team, which includes Dr. Venny Nakazibwe(Co‑PI), Prof. Paul Muyinda, Dr. Godfrey Mayende, Mr. Samuel Mugabi, Mr. Alex Mwebaze, Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere, and Dr. Lydia Mazzi Ndandiko, for their tireless efforts in managing the project. He further acknowledged KOICA Country Director Ms. Jihee Ahn for expanding the scope of the project beyond the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) to encompass

Written by Musinguzi Harriet, Principal Communication Officer, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology.

Alex Isemaghendera

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