An aerial view of the Makerere University School of Public Health construction site on the Main Campus. To the Right is the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) and in the background are Dag Hammaskjold Hall (Green roof) and University Hall (Brown tiles).
The Rockefeller Foundation, an American private philanthropy, donated US$100,000, which Makerere University will use towards the construction of a new School of Public Health (MakSPH) building in celebration of the University’s centenary this year.
Following a visit by The Rockefeller Foundation team and a tour of the MakSPH construction site located at Makerere University Main Campus, Mr. William Asiko, Vice President, Africa Region at The Rockefeller Foundation, announced the donation of US$100,000.
“As a Foundation, we are excited to re-engage with Makerere University and the School of Public Health. To that end, we are incredibly proud of the strides the School of Public Health has made since its inception. We look forward to continued collaboration with the School and the University at large,” said Mr. Asiko.
The Rockefeller Foundation has supported MakSPH for many years including its support for the construction of the current home of MakSPH 54 years ago and the establishment of the Master of Public Health (MPH) Program 28 years ago, which was among the first MPH programs on the African continent.
On July 29, 2022, MakSPH received and hosted Andrew Sweet, Vice President, Global Covid-19 Response and Recovery at the Rockefeller Foundation and Wadzanayi Muchenje, the Strategic Partnership & Health Lead for The Rockefeller Foundation’s Africa Regional Office. #MakerereAt100
MakSPH appreciates The Rockefeller Foundation for its generous support of public health in Africa and continued partnership towards a healthier Africa.
Makerere University School of Public Health is one of the oldest and largest public health training institutions in sub-Saharan Africa. Over the past 15 years, the School has significantly increased student enrolment and staff numbers.
The School offers nine (9) Masters programs and PhD training and is a leading player in public health in the African region with several multi-country, multi-institutional research and capacity building initiatives.
To accommodate this growth, MakSPH has initiated construction of a new building on the Makerere University Main Campus with an estimated cost of US$10 million of the fully fitted building. The School has so far raised US$3.5 million from various fundraising drives.
“Given its location within a region prone to infectious disease outbreaks of epidemic and pandemic potential, this building will accommodate a Centre for disease outbreak prevention, preparedness and response research in addition to other Centres of Excellence. We are extremely grateful to The Rockefeller Foundation for their generosity. Your past financial support has been invaluable to the growth of public health in Uganda, in Africa and globally,” Dr. Rhoda Wanyenze, Professor and Dean, MakSPH.
Side view of the Auditorium and the slab for the first floor of the MakSPH Main Building.
Dr. Lynn Atuyambe, an Associate Professor and the Chair of the Infrastructure Development Committee, MakSPH expresses gratitude to all its partners in Uganda and across the world for their unwavering support.
“We are deeply grateful for the support we have received thus far for the MakSPH building project, which has allowed us to make steady progress. We would like to extend a special thanks to our consultants CNS Inc., led by Arch. Nankya Collins Dolores; the Makerere University Estates and Works Department, and the Makerere University Administration, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. We would also like to recognize the hard work of the contractor, ROKO Construction Ltd., the Infrastructure Development Committee (IDC), and the MakSPH staff for their personal contributions and encouragement. However, to complete the entire project, the School still needs to raise an additional $6 million, and we appeal to our supporters to continue their generous contributions,” says Prof. Lynn Atuyambe
About us
MakSPH is a leading public health training and research institution in Sub-Saharan Africa. It is one of the schools under the College of Health Sciences, a constituent College of Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda. The School conducts research and provides consultation services to the Government of Uganda Ministry of Heath, various national and international health organizations, as well as bilateral and multilateral agencies involved in health. The School provides graduate, undergraduate and in-service training in public health. MakSPH’s major research and capacity building areas are: infectious and non-infectious diseases, sexual, reproductive, maternal and child health, environmental and sustainable health.
The Makerere University College of Health Sciences (MakCHS), College of Natural Sciences, and College of Business and Management Sciences presented graduands for conferment of degrees on the 14th January, 2025 which was the day 2 of the 75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University that commenced on Monday 13th January 2025.
MakCHS presented a total of 886 graduands including (23) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), (456) Masters and (407) Bachelors. For the second year, MakCHS produced the researcher with the biggest number of publications, Prof. Moses Kamya and he received an award for the achievement.
PhD recipients on Day2 of the Mak75thGrad Ceremony.
Speaking to the congregation, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe – Vice Chancellor, Makerere University welcomed everyone to Makerere University’s 75th Graduation. He congratulated the 13,658 graduates, including 143 PhD recipients, 53% female graduates and 47% male graduands who will be awarded degrees through the graduation week. He commended the efforts of staff, parents, and sponsors in supporting the students’ journeys. Professor Nawangwe praised the achievements of Makerere’s Colleges and Schools, he commended MakCHS for the leadership in research and innovation flying the Makerere flag globally. He noted, ‘The College of Health Sciences is our flagship college for research and community engagement. This college accounts for 50% of all research grants won and also 50% of all the publications by the University. The College celebrated 100 years last year, making it the oldest college at Makerere University’.
MakCHS Principal Assoc. Prof. Bruce Kirenga (2nd left) with MakCHS Faculty.Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe speaking during the Graduation.
Prof. Nawangwe reiterated Makerere’s transformation to a research-led institution supported by the government funded Makerere UniversityResearch and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF). “We are addressing national priorities, such as improving the Parish Development Model and advancing e-governance,” he stated. The Vice Chancellor also congratulated Dr. Crispus Kiyonga on his appointment as Chancellor and urged graduates to leverage their education to create solutions for societal challenges.
Professor Nawangwe advised the graduands thus, ‘We have equipped you with the knowledge and skills that will make you employable or to create your own businesses and employ others. Do not despair if you cannot find employment, instead reflect on the immense opportunities around you and raise them as an entrepreneur.’
Professor Puleng LenkaBula, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of South Africa (UNISA) delivered the commencement speech where she called on the graduands to remain resilient and emancipate Africa’s people. Her address titled “The Power of Resilience – African Woman, Find Your Generational Mission and Redefine Your Worth”, Professor LenkaBula highlighted the critical role of African women in shaping the continent’s destiny.
Prof. Puleng LenkaBula, Vice Chancellor of the University of South Africa delivering her commencement lecture.
Professor LenkaBula expressed gratitude for being invited to such a significant occasion and extended greetings from South Africa, including from UNISA’s Chancellor, former South African President Dr. Thabo Mbeki. She praised Makerere University for its legacy of academic excellence and contributions to the African continent, emphasizing its role in anti-colonial struggles, post-colonial development, and its steadfast commitment to African unity. She called for a renewed focus on gender equity in academia and leadership, noting the disproportionate burdens faced by women in society. Citing the achievements of Makerere University in gender mainstreaming, she expressed optimism about the role of young leaders in dismantling patriarchal systems and fostering inclusive development.
Professor LenkaBula concluded her address to graduands with a call to action: “Your graduation is not merely a personal achievement but a contribution to Africa’s collective progress. History has thrust upon you the task of creating a future defined by resilience, innovation, and equality.”
In his remarks, Dr. Crispus Kiyonga – Chancellor, Makerere University congratulated graduands upon making it to the 75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University. Dr. Suruma expressed his appreciation of His Excellency the President and First Lady/Minister of Education and Sports for giving him the opportunity to serve Uganda and for the continuous support extended to Makerere University, requesting the congregation to join him and give them a warm applause. Dr. Kiyonga reiterated President Museveni’s directive to Makerere University to integrate the teaching of political economy across all courses to enhance students’ understanding of the country’s socioeconomic conditions. The directive, welcomed by the university’s top management, will be incorporated into the curriculum to align education with the needs of the people and the nation.
Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga addresses the congregation.
He expressed appreciation that the government has pledged to bolster Makerere’s research funding and he encouraged the University to strengthen partnerships with the private sector to commercialize innovations developed at the institution.
The new Chancellor pledged support to the University management in saving its land and urged that an agro-industrial park be established. “This park would serve three purposes: teaching, generating income, and acting as a demonstration site for communities across the country,” Dr. Kiyonga noted. He also emphasized the urgency of addressing Uganda’s food insecurity, highlighting that 40% of children in the Rwenzori region are stunted, with malnutrition affecting most regions of the country.
Dr. Kiyonga also pointed out Africa’s underperformance despite its vast resources, describing it as a contradiction. “It is our responsibility to change the conditions of our people and ensure Africa rises to its potential,” he urged.
The ceremony was graced by Hon. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, Minister of State for Primary Education, who represented the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni. Other dignitaries included members of Parliament, the judiciary, the diplomatic corps, and academics.
The Minister lauded Makerere University for its dedication to academic excellence and innovation. “Today reflects the resilience, hard work, and commitment of our graduates, supported by the university staff, management, and parents,” she said. The Minister commended the Vice Chancellor and management for fostering research and innovation while urging them to maintain robust quality control systems to uphold the institution’s integrity.
The Minister of State for Primary Education Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu represented the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni.
She also reflected on Makerere’s recent milestones, including the commissioning of a new the launch of the School of Graduate Studies and Research. “Your achievements stem from hard work, transparency, and accountability. They set Makerere apart as a leader in higher education,” she noted. Addressing the graduates, Hon. Kaducu encouraged them to apply their skills to solve societal challenges. “Makerere has equipped you with critical thinking and creativity. Use this to seize opportunities, make a difference, and shine wherever you go,” she concluded. During the 75th graduation ceremony held from the 13th -17th January, 2025, a total of 13,658 graduands were awarded degrees and diplomas in various disciplines. Of these, 143 received PhDs, 1,813 Masters Degrees, 243 postgraduate Diplomas, and 11,454 Bachelor’s Degrees. 53% of the graduands are female and 47% are male. 44% of the PhD graduands are female. A total of 491 graduands received first class degrees.
The course is intended to strengthen the capacity of practicing workers to successfully identify and manage Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) opportunities and problems by facilitating the acquisition of adequate knowledge, development of skills and attitudes through understanding and use of the 6 essential services of WASH. These are to:
Monitor WASH status to identify and solve community environmental health problems.
Diagnose and investigate WASH problems and health hazards in the community.
Inform, educate and empower people about WASH issues.
Mobilise community partnerships and actions to identify and solve WASH problems.
Evaluate effectiveness, accessibility and quality of personal and population-based WASH services.
Research for new insights and innovative solutions to WASH problems.
Course Structure
The course is an 8-weeks programme of study. Participants will spend 3 weeks (full-time) at Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) while 4 weeks will be spent at suitable workplaces / field sites. The final week of the course will be spent at MakSPH for presentation of project / field work, final examination, and the certificate awarding ceremony. This is a day programme and will run from 26th May to 18th July 2025.
Course Modules
Water Resources Management
Environmental Sanitation
Hygiene Promotion
WASH Policy, Planning and Financing
Field / Project Work
Mode of delivery of the course includes lectures, tutorials, seminars, practicals and field work.
Dates
26th May to 18th July 2025
Fees
Ugandans
Internationals
UGX 900,000
USD 500
Dates and Fees for the Certificate in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene 2025
Who should apply?
Practicing officers in the WASH sector including those working in local government, non governmental organizations (NGOs) or the private sector.
Environmental Health workers who wish to broaden their knowledge and skills as a form of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) so as to be better equipped to implement WASH activities.
Entry requirements for admission to the course are Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) or its equivalent with at least 1 year working experience in WASH.
The deadline for receiving applications is Wednesday 26th March 2025.
For further details, contact:
Course Administrator Ms. Irene Nassazi Makerere University School of Public Health New Mulago Hospital Complex E-mail: inassazi@musph.ac.ug Tel. +256771671354
Course Coordinator Dr. David Musoke Makerere University School of Public Health New Mulago Hospital Complex E-mail: dmusoke@musph.ac.ug Tel. +256788572129
Co-Course Coordinator Mr. Allan Ssembuusi Makerere University School of Public Health New Mulago Hospital Complex E-mail: assembuusi@musph.ac.ug Tel. +256759955067
On 2nd December 2024, Assoc. Professor Bruce Kirenga officially took over as Principal of the College of Health Sciences, Makerere University (MakCHS) in a handover ceremony held in the College Board Room. Dr. Kirenga succeeds Professor Damalie Nakanjako, who successfully completed her four-year term.
The ceremony was attended by members of the MakCHS Administrative Board and key university leaders, including Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) Professor Henry Alinaitwe, Chief of Human Resources, Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni, & Deputy University Secretary Mr. Simon Kizito, among others.
Prof. Damalie Nakanjako (2nd Left) shows of her plaque as Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Henry Alinaitwe (2nd Right), Deputy US-Mr. Simon Kizito (Left), Dr. David Patrick Kateete (Right) and Dr. Richard Idro (2nd Right) witness.
In her remarks, Professor Nakanjako reflected on her time in office with gratitude and pride since she assumed office in December 2020. She expressed her full support for MakCHS in contributing towards training and research in Makerere University.
Professor Nakanjako thanked the university top management for the support rendered to during her term of office as Principal. I thank family, friends and colleagues who supported and allowed me share my time with the college, especially beyond official hours.
Assoc. Prof. Bruce Kirenga delivers his acceptance remarks.
Dr. Kirenga, a pulmonologist, researcher, and founding director of the Makerere University Lung Institute, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Makerere leadership and the search committee for entrusting him with the responsibility of steering the college. He noted; “It’s a true honour to have been entrusted with this role. The search process was rigorous, but I learned so much from the ideas shared by my colleagues—it was a truly honourable competition.”
With a vision for collaboration and growth, Dr. Kirenga outlined his priorities, including improving staffing, improving relationships with teaching hospitals, and addressing infrastructure needs. He emphasized a leadership style rooted in inclusivity and teamwork, saying, “Let’s create a common vision through consultation and work together. I’ll visit every unit in the college to hear directly from staff about their challenges, needs, and ideas for moving forward.”
Dr. Kirenga also shared plans to establish a forum of past leaders to harness their collective wisdom and ensure continuity in leadership.
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