General
Mak embarks on championing Gender Equality Seal in public institutions: Vice Chancellor Commissions Committee
By: Ritah Namisango
Makerere University, a public-funded institution, has embarked on a journey to champion the implementation of the Gender Equality Seal in public institutions. The Gender Equality Seal is aimed at encouraging public institutions to analyse and mainstream gender into their policies, improve their approaches and their potential impact on women’s lives, empowerment and gender equality.
Consequently, on Thursday 6th April 2023, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe commissioned the Gender Equality Seal Committee at Makerere University and called upon them to ensure a 50/50 per cent gender parity across the board.
“I congratulate the Committee upon its appointment. Over the years, Makerere University has embraced gender mainstreaming and equity initiatives. I am glad that Makerere University has been selected to champion the implementation of the Gender Equality Seal programme. Our goal should focus on attaining a 50/50 gender parity across the board. I urge the team to spearhead the certification process for Makerere University to earn the gold seal. I thank UNDP for accepting to partner with Makerere University in the implementation of the Gender Equality Seal initiative,” he said.
Prof. Nawangwe emphasized the need to recommend policies and laws that will inform the gender equality drive, implementation and practice. “I advise you to undertake a self-reflection of what Makerere University has done or achieved over the years and set your goals. I hope that the exercise will also make proposals for policies. For countries to make good progress, gender equality and parity issues ought to be prioritised in the law.”
The Gender Equality Seal (GES) for public institutions is a methodological proposal and acknowledges the efforts of public institutions towards achieving substantive equality between women and men within the framework of the 2030 agenda for development and the Sustainable Development Goals. (SDGs). At Makerere University, the Gender Equality Seal initiative is anchored by the School of Women and Gender Studies.
The commissioning ceremony held in the Council Room, Makerere University Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility started with an orientation programme to enable the Members of the newly constituted Gender Equality Seal Committee to understand and appreciate the noble task.
Chaired by Dr. Sarah N. Ssali, an Associate Professor and the Dean, School of Women and Gender Studies, the Gender Equality Seal Committee consists of the following members: Dr. Euzobia Baine Mugisha-Director of Gender Mainstreaming, Mr. Evarist Bainomugisha-University Bursar, Mr. Ssanyu Lawrence-Ag. Director of Human Resources, Mrs. Winifred Kabumbuli-Dean of Students, Ms. Ritah Namisango-Principal Public Relations Officer, Mr. Emmanuel Kitamirike-Principal Planning Officer, and Mr. Ayub Kiranda-the Secretary to the Committee. It is important to note that two (2) female representatives of students will be nominated to join the Committee when the 89th Students’ Guild Government is constituted.
During the orientation, the Gender Equality Seal Committee listened to presentations on: the overview of the Gender Equality Seal for Public institutions, introduction to the role and expectations of the Gender Equality Seal Committee, Sharing of best practices of gender equality at the global, regional and national level. This was followed by an interactive experience sharing session from the Members of the Gender Equality Seal Committee including a question and answer session.
In her address, Dr. Sarah Ssali reiterated the commitment of the university leadership towards gender issues at the institutional, structural and operations levels through the establishment of the School of Women and Gender Studies, the Directorate of Gender Mainstreaming, the formulation of the Gender Equity Policy, the Policy and Regulations Against Sexual Harassment, among others. These measures are aimed at promoting gender equality, women empowerment and protection of men and women against all forms of abuse. In addition to these efforts, Dr. Ssali acknowledged the Vice Chancellor; who is renowned for championing the mainstreaming of gender into university processes, for appointing the Gender Equality Seal Committee to take on an oversight role that will drive the transformation of Makerere University with regard to gender parity.
Dr. Ssali highlighted that the gender equality seal process will not only help Makerere University to deliver on its gender gains, but also contribute to its transformation into a competitive centre of gender excellence. She revealed that Makerere University requested for the Gender Equality Seal programme in consideration of SDG 5, which focuses on achieving gender equality. She noted that the Gender Equality Seal Committee is very central because universities will be ranked on gender equality.
“Under SDG 5, universities will be ranked on gender equality issues. It is very encouraging to see that UNDP has started this process with Makerere University. It helps us to check and monitor ourselves, to perform better in gender equality issues and to meet international expectations,” she said.
Dr. Ssali emphasized the need to document evidence and processes as well as have indicators to measure policies and inform policy implementation. “To execute this role of documenting evidence, which is embedded in all the processes, the Vice Chancellor ensured that the planning unit of the University is part of the Gender Equality Seal Committee,” she said.
Underscoring the need for institutional commitment, Ms. Annet Mpabalungi Wakabi, the Team Leader, Governance and Peace at UNDP commended Makerere University for its contribution to national development. She appreciated the leadership at Makerere University for choosing to set the pace in the gender equality seal implementation and processes.
Highlighting that gender equality is a pre-condition for achieving development agenda 2030 and 2063, she explained that the task at hand involves the leadership and the gender equality seal committee to work together to address institutional resistances to gender equality, which includes breaking standards and patterns.
Ms. Mpabalungi provided an account of the existing partnerships between Makerere University and UNDP including the Makerere University Innovations Hub, the ongoing proposal to support a day care centre at Makerere University, and this particular initiative towards the promotion of the Gender Equality Seal in public institutions.
The Team Leader reiterated the commitment and readiness of UNDP to support the realization of the gender equality seal at Makerere, and wished the University leadership and the Gender Equality Seal Committee a fruitful engagement that will result into the gold seal standard. This commitment will be represented in communications through a hash tag: #MakStrive4Gold.
The UNDP team that interacted with the Gender Equality Seal committee at Makerere University included: Ms. Annet Mpabulungi-Team Leader, Ms. Harriet Karusigarira, Ms. Beatrice Mugambe, Angela Bageine and Voilet Namata.
Addressing the Gender Equality Seal Committee and the UNDP team, the Vice Chancellor highlighted the measures that have been undertaken towards gender equity and equality. He mentioned that the strides need to be understood and appreciated within the broader context of the attitudes towards education in general and the cultural norms and practices. Established in 1922 as a technical school, Makerere opened its doors to 14 male students with a motto, let us be men. It was later on in the 1940’s that the female students joined this institution. He disclosed that when he joined the Faculty of Technology (30 years ago), there was only one (1) female student, and everyone in the University knew her. At that time, the enrolment of female students in the University stood at 5%.
To address the low levels of female students’ enrolment, Makerere University in the early 1990s, came up with an affirmative action whereby each female student who qualified to join the University would be added 1.5 points, which gradually raised the enrolment from 5% to growing numbers of up to 42% to date. With this measure, the Vice Chancellor noted that Makerere University has made a tremendous impact on the gender terrain in Uganda and the region. In the same vein, other partners namely Carnegie Corporation of New York, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, and the Makerere University Council through the Female Scholarship Foundation, the Embassy of China in Uganda came on board to provide scholarships to female students.
For staff members, the Vice Chancellor pointed out that women were the majority in the category of support staff and were very few within the administrative and academic staff categories. However, with the access of women to university education and scholarships, the percentage of women in administrative and academic staff positions/ranks has continued to rise. He noted that although the University has not yet reached the desired levels of women in administrative and academic staff categories, the future is bright and promising. Makerere University also subscribes to the Employment laws of Uganda, and the Equal Opportunities Act. In the adverts, qualified women are encouraged to apply. During the recruitment processes, qualified women compete with men, and the best candidate is considered.
On the issue of women in leadership, the Vice Chancellor outlined the deliberate effort to identify qualifying women to take on key roles. For instance, the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate is headed by Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has been headed by women (Ms. Catherine Kanabahita, Dr. Florence Nakayiwa, and Dr. Justine Namaalwa). The Makerere University Grants Administration and Support Management Unit (GAMSU) was headed by Prof. Grace Bantebya Kyomuhendo, and following her appointment to become the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) of Bunyoro University, Prof. Sylvia Antonia Nannyonga-Tamusuza.
Going forward, the Vice Chancellor guided that the drive of Makerere University should be geared towards achieving 50/50 per cent parity in all these issues and expressed confidence that this would be feasible thanks to the capacity built over the years. “Once again, I thank the Gender Equality Seal Committee for accepting to serve. Please make sure that Makerere University gets the Gold seal in gender equality. I officially commission the Gender Equality Seal Committee to start its work,’’ remarked the Vice Chancellor amidst applause.
The specific objectives of the Gender Equality Seal Initiative include:
- To enhance the understanding of the Gender Equality Seal for public institutions including the overall goals, objectives and principles of the Gender Equality Seal and how it works.
- To support the University leadership’s commitment to rolling out and implementing the Gender Equality Seal programme.
- To facilitate and support the transfer of knowledge and skills to Makerere University and establish a core team of Gender Advisors to support the roll out and implementation of the seal programme.
#MakStrive4Gold
General
Makerere University Writing Centre trains first cohort of staff on professional minute writing
By Christopher Kaahwa and Ritah Namisango
On 6th November 2025, the Makerere University Writing Centre (MakWC) held a training workshop aimed at enhancing professional writing skills among University staff.
Focusing on official documentation and record keeping, the training, hosted at the School of Business Conference Hall, attracted participants from different University units, including Assistant Administrative Officers and Assistant Academic Registrars. This marked the first cohort of trainees to benefit from the program, which covered topics such as the fundamentals and responsibilities of a minute taker, writing techniques, policy and legal considerations, e-meeting platforms, and the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Patience Rubabinda Mushengyezi, the Deputy Academic Registrar, who represented the Academic Registrar, Professor Buyinza Mukadasi, commended the Writing Centre for championing the growth of writing skills across the University. “I want to thank the team from the Writing Centre for considering the Academic Registrar’s Department. Writing is central to everything that we do – from keeping accurate minutes to communicating decisions. This training will greatly improve our writing skills,” she said.
Mrs. Mushengyezi emphasized that official records, especially minutes, must be accurate, ethical, and well-structured. She reminded participants that minutes are not mere summaries, but legal and public documents that can serve as evidence in administrative or legal matters. “When we write minutes, we must remember they represent official proceedings and can be used in courts of law. This calls for professionalism, clarity, and ethical responsibility in your daily work,” she stated.
Speaking during the workshop, Professor Fredrick Jones Muyodi, the Team Leader, Makerere University Writing Centre (MakWC), explained that the Centre is pivoted to support the University’s strategic goal of becoming a research-led institution by 2030. Established and institutionalized in 2025 by the University Senate and Council, the Centre operates under the Directorate of Research, Innovations, and Partnerships (DRIP).
Professor Muyodi shared that the Centre has developed a comprehensive training and mentorship program to build writing skills across the University and beyond. The program will involve experts and mentors experienced in writing, collaborative research, and publication. It will use a hybrid approach, combining traditional teaching with online learning, case studies, and hands-on practice.
He also revealed that the Centre will offer short courses, lasting up to two weeks, in key areas such as academic, technical and scientific writing, editing and proofreading, policy brief and report writing, writing for community engagement, professional writing for administrators, and publishing. “These courses will strengthen the writing capacity of both staff and students while promoting research translation and effective communication,” he said.
On behalf of the Writing Center, Professor Ronald Bisaso commended the support from the Directorate of Human Resource and the Academic Registrar’ department for the identification of capacity development gaps, that provided the basis for the choice of topics and training facilitators.
During her presentation on the Fundamentals and Roles of a Minute Taker, Mrs. Mushengyezi underscored the importance of understanding institutional structures and governing frameworks before taking on the role of writing minutes. She explained that Makerere University’s governance system – from the University Council and Senate down to College Boards and departmental committees, operates under clear mandates, which minute writers must understand to accurately record proceedings.
She noted that effective minute writing begins with proper preparation, which includes knowing the committee composition, consulting the Chairperson about meeting details, and ensuring members receive timely notices and agendas. She advised participants to differentiate between regular, special, and emergency meetings, as each requires a unique approach to documentation. Drawing from experience, she encouraged participants to arrive early for meetings, verify meeting logistics, and carry official record books to ensure accuracy. “A well-prepared minute writer, not only captures discussions accurately, but also upholds the credibility of the meeting,” she remarked.
Mrs. Proscovia Nakayiki, Acting Deputy Academic Registrar (Examinations and Transcripts), led a session on Writing Techniques. During the session, she emphasized that minutes are vital for accountability, serve as a record for future reference, and inform those who missed meetings. “Well-written minutes should tell a clear, flowing story that remains meaningful even years later,” she said.
Ms. Nakayiki stressed that minute writing requires preparation and structure. She advised secretaries to be familiar with the meeting type and agenda, list all attendees and absentees, clearly summarize discussions, and outline action points. She also encouraged the use of templates, testing of recording devices beforehand, and remaining attentive during meetings to capture key decisions accurately.
Presenting on Policy and Legal Frameworks for Minute Writing, Ms. Esther Kabinga, Principal Legal Officer discussed the laws and policies that govern record keeping in Uganda. She noted that minutes are crucial for transparency and accountability, citing laws such as the Companies Act (2012), Public Finance Management Act (2015), and Access to Information Act. She also referenced some of Makerere University policies, including the Record Keeping Policy, Academic Records Management Policy (2022), and Communications Policy (2013). “Proper documentation protects both the institution and the individuals involved in decision-making,” she emphasized.
Discussing the Ethical and Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, Director of the Institute of Open, Distance and e-Learning, noted that AI has become part of everyday life. He commended Makerere University for adopting an official AI policy that promotes its ethical, inclusive, and responsible use in teaching, research, administration, and innovation. He urged participants to use AI as a supportive tool, combining it with human judgment and creativity while writing.
Building on to the aforementioned presentation, Dr. Godfrey Mayende, the Head, Department of Distance Learning and Deputy Director at the Institute of Open, Distance and eLearning, highlighted the role of digital platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and WebEx in improving meeting efficiency and documentation. He pointed out that these platforms provide useful features like recording, transcription, and chat functions that make meetings more interactive and inclusive. “Familiarity with these tools enhances accountability and ensures that discussions are well-documented and easy to retrieve,” he advised.
Writers: Ritah Namisango is a Principal Communication Officer at Makerere University. Christopher Kaahwa contributed to this article as a Volunteer. Christopher Kaahwa is a Graduate of Makerere University-Bachelor of Journalism and Communication.
General
Meet Sedrick Nuwagaba, a Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni Contributing to Uganda’s Oil & Gas Industry
Sedrick Nuwagaba, a 35-year-old petroleum engineer, is actively contributing his expertise to the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, which regulates the oil and gas sector. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production from Makerere University in 2021, an opportunity he accessed through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Sedrick’s educational qualifications and professional responsibilities exemplify his commitment to advancing Uganda’s oil and gas sector.
Who is Sedrick Nuwagaba?
Sedrick was born on February 1, 1990, in Kashari, located within the Mbarara district of Western Uganda. He spent his early childhood in a large family, where he faced many challenges that shaped his resilient character. By the age of 14, Sedrick had become the primary breadwinner for his immediate family, comprising his mother and two sisters. His unwavering commitment to their well-being remains evident to this day.
To support his family during these formative years, Sedrick took on a variety of jobs in his community. These early experiences cultivated in him resilience and tenacity, qualities that have significantly contributed to his success as a petroleum engineer.
Following these family challenges, Sedrick and his immediate family relocated from Kashari to a new area in what is now Lyantonde district, where they continue to reside. His journey not only reflects personal growth but also underscores a steadfast commitment to uplifting those around him.
Early Education
The implementation of Universal Primary Education (UPE) in Uganda in 1997 was a pivotal development for Sedrick, facilitating his enrollment at St. Martin Lyantonde Primary School at the age of seven, which was conveniently located near his residence. Sedrick expresses deep appreciation for this initiative, commenting, “Without UPE, I might not have had the opportunity to pursue my education. It truly opened the door for me to attend school and engage in learning.” Despite confronting considerable challenges, including a lack of necessities such as food, Sedrick distinguished himself academically. He achieved top candidate status among UPE schools in his district, earning an impressive seven aggregates in the Primary Leaving Examinations—a remarkable accomplishment given the adversities he faced.
Pursuing Secondary Education
Sedrick faced significant challenges after earning 7 points in the Primary Leaving Examinations, as he was unable to secure a bursary. At that time, alternative arrangements for Universal Secondary Education were limited, which made it difficult for him to continue his education. However, demonstrating remarkable resilience, Sedrick sought work at 14 to fund his secondary education. Through his determination and resourcefulness, he enrolled at Victoria Western College, a small private school in his area, where he attended for three years, reaching Form 3.
Although financial barriers hindered his progress to Form 4, Sedrick’s journey shows his dedication to education and his ability to overcome adversity. Fortunately, his elder half-brother, a businessman in the neighbouring town of Mbarara, reached out and helped him enrol in Form 4 at Kashari Secondary School in Mbarara in 2007.
Embarking on a Journey to Iraq in Search of Opportunity
In 2008, facing difficulties in pursuing his education, Sedrick made the brave decision to take up a security job during the conflict in Iraq between 2003 and 2011. At that time, many young Ugandans were recruited to provide buffer security support to the U.S. military in Iraq. During his time in Iraq, Sedrick not only earned a stable income to support his family but also cared for his mother and funded his two sisters’ education, ultimately improving their lives. Unfortunately, his contract ended in 2010, and he had to return to Uganda to write the next chapter of his life.
Joining the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University
Upon returning to Uganda after his experience in the Iraq War, Sedrick recognised that education was the key to transforming his life. With a determined mindset, he committed himself to his studies, understanding the long-lasting impact they could have on his future. Thanks to his perseverance and the relationships he had built, Sedrick obtained a bursary from a religious organisation, enabling him to resume his high school education six years after his last time in school.
In 2015, he completed his high school education at Namirembe Hillside, where he studied Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry. With 15 points in his final exams, he was admitted to the Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production program, supported by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
“Participating in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University significantly changed my life. For the first time, I was free from the constant worries about necessities like food and shelter. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provided me with a supportive environment that allowed me to focus on my education and personal growth,” Sedrick shared.
Life After Makerere University
In 2020, after graduating, Sedrick had the opportunity to intern at the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) in the Reservoir Engineering section. During his internship, he demonstrated exceptional dedication and expertise in the oil and gas sector. His performance led to his promotion to a Graduate Trainee, which provided him with valuable experiential learning and expanded his exposure within the industry. This experience ultimately paved the way for his recruitment as a Petroleum Engineer at the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, where he now contributes to the regulation of petroleum exploration activities in the country.
Impact on the Community
Upon graduating from university, Sedrick took a proactive approach that set him apart from his peers. He launched Kleanerman, a social venture project designed to have a positive impact on his community. This initiative provides valuable short-term, on-demand domestic services—such as home cleaning, laundry, and babysitting—catering to the needs of busy city residents. Through Kleanerman, Sedrick has successfully created employment opportunities for several young men and women in his community of Kanyanya, fostering both economic growth and personal development.
Due to his own challenges during his educational journey, he has developed a deep commitment to helping other young people facing difficulties with school expenses. To date, he has successfully supported seven young individuals in his Lyantonde community, guiding them from primary through secondary education. His long-term goal is to establish a charitable organisation dedicated to providing young people facing barriers to education with the resources they need to access quality education.
Looking into the Future
Sedrick is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in Uganda’s oil and gas sector. He, along with his colleagues, is focused on ensuring that Uganda achieves its inaugural oil production by 2026.
“Each day, our collective efforts are directed toward successfully introducing Uganda’s first oil into the market by the end of 2026, and expanding the country’s petroleum resource base by discovering more oil reserves,” Sedrick states with evident pride. He is also committed to advancing his career in the oil and gas industry. From his earnings, he has enrolled for a Master’s degree in Petroleum Geosciences at Makerere University to deepen his skills and expertise in the sector.
Message to his fellow young people
Sedrick urges the current Mastercard Foundation Scholars enrolled in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, as well as those at other universities, to make the most of the support provided by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. He emphasises the importance of engaging in capacity-building sessions, skill development programs, mentorship opportunities, and psychosocial support. Sedrick asserts that this comprehensive support framework has been instrumental in transforming his life and shaping who he is today.
He references a quotation that has become a guiding principle in his life: “Until death, all defeat is psychological.” Through this quotation, he seeks to inspire his peers to persevere, emphasising the notion that individuals can always recover and succeed despite the myriad challenges they may encounter in their initial endeavours.
Words of Gratitude
“The impact of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program on my life is profound and transformative. I am sincerely grateful to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University and to the Mastercard Foundation as a whole. It is my hope and prayer that the Foundation continues to make a positive difference in the lives of numerous young individuals, particularly within the African continent.” Sedrick emphasises.
His supervisor speaks out
Sedrick’s immediate supervisor, Mr Derrick Katusiime, the Senior Petroleum Engineer in the Directorate of Exploration at the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, was full of praise for him both at work and outside.
“Sedrick is very sociable and gets along well with everyone here at work, and his technical skills in just two years are impressive,” Mr. Katusiime pointed out.
Mr Katusiime further revealed that Sedrick champions values of integrity, active listening, and being an excellent team player. He goes the extra mile to complete tasks, takes on multiple responsibilities, and demonstrates humility and eagerness to learn.
Bernard Buteera is the Principal Communications Officer, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
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