Computing & IS
CoCIS Non-Teaching staff skilled on Performance Management & Appraisal, PR & Team Building
Over 50 Non-Teaching staff from the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) were on 12th May 2023 retooled on different aspects including Performance Management and Appraisal, Public Relations, Customer care, Team building and Communication.
The training which brought together administrative, support and contract staff was officially opened by the Principal CoCIS and closed by the Ag. Director, Directorate of Human Resources Makerere University, Mr Lawrence Sanyu.
It was facilitated by officials from the Makerere University Directorate of Human Resources and the Public Relations office. Facilitators included the Ag. Manager Performance Management and Appraisal Mr Deus Tayari Mujuni, the Technical person in charge of the e-HRMS system Mr Joshua Muhumuza, the Ag. Manager Staff Development, Welfare and Retirement Benefits Division Mr Julius Lebo and the University’s Principal Public Relations Officer Ms Ritah Namisango.
The appraisal is a must for staff to benefit from the University – Ag. Director HR
The Ag. Director, Directorate of Human Resources Makerere University, Mr Lawrence Sanyu commended the college management for organising the training. Mr Sanyu told staff that although they had qualifications at the time of recruitment, they have to be retooled and evaluated to ascertain whether the reasons for which they were employed are still being realised.
“We are doing appraisal not to punish anyone, but to evaluate and see whether we are still meeting the organisational objectives.” The Ag. Director said adding that appraisals are not only meant for confirmation, promotion and contract renewals.
“If you do not appraise yourself, it affects all the benefits you are supposed to get from the university including salary. The reasons why people are not doing these appraisals could be they are doing something different from what they were recruited to do”, Mr Sanyu explained.
He implored staff, to update their information on the portal saying, the appraisals are now done online and that the portal has been kept open because the online systems have just been introduced so that everyone can participate.
The Ag. Director stressed the importance of good customer care service especially, the care of students on the grounds that they are the reason the university exists. Mr. Sanyu told staff that every job in the university is related to students whether one is a cleaner, a custodian or a lecturer.
“You are very important in your capacity and without you, the university suffers. And since you are critical, you must make sure you do your work as expected and be happy you are in that position.”, Mr Sanyu advised and urged staff to desist from despising their jobs on the reason that the same jobs earn them fees for their children and food on their tables.
Sanyu emphasised teamwork as a cornerstone to achieving organisational goals saying, the reason staff should work together is not that they like one another but to work towards the University’s main goal.
Uphold the Basic Values and Ethics-CoCIS Principal
In his opening address, the Principal CoCIS Prof. Tonny Oyana implored staff to uphold basic values and work ethics.
“You must be dedicated to your work. A good worker has ethics and discipline. When someone gives you money, s(h)e expects a return on that investment. As workers, you are expected to exhibit traditional and basic values such as good time management, respect for colleagues and those in authority”. Prof. Oyana stated
Describing values as critical in making a working environment conducive, Prof. Oyana reminded staff that Africans have some traditional values, some of them very basic such as being polite, greeting and welcoming people.
“The thing that separates us from other animals is intelligence and conscience. The greeting is the basic entry point for a conversation and a way to relate”, the Principal explained and cautioned workers who come and leave early and those that cannot perform beyond their expectations.
Prof. Oyana pledged to make sure that the welfare of staff is taken care of and later led the meeting into a discussion about what was not going on well in the college for collective feedback and solutions.
Aspects of the training
Performance Management and Appraisal important
The Ag. Manager Performance Management and Appraisal Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni presented on the aspect of Performance Management and Appraisal wherein he handled different aspects including Performance Management, Goal setting, the role of the Appraiser and Appraisee and the importance of Performance Appraisal.
Mr Mujuni told staff that the performance appraisal cycle starts with a plan in December of the calendar year based on the mission, vision and strategic objectives and goals.
In addition to measuring and improving the performance of employees and increasing their future potential and value to the university, Mr Mujuni said staff performance appraisal helps individuals learn how well they are doing over a period of time.
“It facilitates promotion decisions and makes it easier to ensure that vacant positions are filled by most capable individuals”.
Makerere University according to Mr Mujuni uses the Performance Appraisal key tool for deciding employee promotion, determining transfers, making termination decisions and identifying training needs.
It is also used to identify skills and competence deficits, provide employee feedback, and, determine reward allocation.
“Whatever the college achieves, it cascades to the school, department and the individual. Every person has a contribution to the achievement of the college and university strategic goals. Every morning, you must have a plan and at the end of the year you contribute to the plan of the college and university.” Mujuni said.
The Technical person in charge of the e-HRMS Mr. Joshua Muhumuza conducted the practical session on filling the Performance Appraisal tool,
The detailed presentation is linked. Performance Appraisal
Every University Employee Contributes to the Image of the University – Mak Publicist
Presenting on Public Relations, International Relations, and Effective Customer Care services, the Principal Public Relations Officer at Makerere University, Ms Ritah Namisango emphasised that the primary stakeholder in the university is the student.
Overall, Namisango emphasised that every university employee has a role to play when it comes to Public relations and effective customer care.
“The way you dress and appear, your attitude and behaviour towards students, colleagues, those in authority and visitors are what makes the image of this university”, Ms Namisango said.
Namisango handled different aspects including customer care, challenges faced in Public Relations, Customer care and how to overcome them, the importance of good Public relations, and customer care services in an organisation.
Namisango cautioned staff against idle talk and gossiping and always to seek guidance from relevant offices in case they face challenges. She also asked staff to support the PR and Communication offices, especially by providing information for university reports, websites and profiles.
For details see linked presentation. PR Interpersonal Relations and Customer Care
Be in the solution department and NOT the Problem Department – Julius Lebo
Presenting on Team Building and Effective Communication, the Ag. Manager Staff Development, Welfare and Retirement Benefits Division Mr Julius Lebo explained that effective team building and communication is about building consensus for the institution’s good.
“Even if you disagree, continue working. We enjoy being in the problem department but we should be in the solution department to help the institution move forward.”, Mr. Lebo advised.
He called upon the staff to work collaborative as a team no matter whether they are friends or not for the good of the university.
“Disagree to agree and focus on your work. I do not have to like you to work with you. Liking is a bonus. It is not under any law to like anyone. Focus on what brought you to the university”, Mr Lebo advised.
The link to Mr Lebo’s Presentation: Effective Teamwork and Communication
Computing & IS
EASLIS Holds 2-Day Pedagogical Re-Orientation Workshop For LIS/RAM Teaching Professionals
The East Africa School of Library and Information Science (EASLIS) last week (18th – 19th June, 2024) held a two day Library & Information Science (LIS), and Records and Archives Management (RAM) Teaching Professionals Pedagogical Re-Orientation Workshop.
The event held at Makerere University College of Computing and Information Sciences (Mak CoCIS), Block B attracted a number of teaching staff at various ranks from Ugandan universities, and the region at large.
In his opening Remarks, the Principal-CoCIS; Prof. Tony Oyana thanked the leadership of EASLIS for holding such an important workshop aimed at improving teaching and learning. He emphasized the importance of pedagogical orientation for teaching staff noting that good subject matter knowledge and good research does not directly translate into good teaching.
He also highlighted a number of other important aspects that contribute to effective learning, including the need to create conducive learning environments, emotional intelligence through the ability to understand and relate to the learners and called for the need to deal away with challenge of superiority attitudes manifested in the by some African scholars that sometimes impedes free interaction with learners thereby affecting effective teaching.
He noted that everybody has a propensity to learn, but that people learn at different paces hence the need to give attention to every learner. He also emphasized the need for teaching staff to appreciate cultural diversity in learning environments.
The Dean-EASLIS, Dr. Sarah Kaddu giving an overview of workshop noted that the workshop aimed at achieving the following objectives;
- Improved teacher-student support, relations and classroom management
- Better alignment of course goals, instructional strategies, objectives
- Improved lecture planning, content delivery and course evaluation
- Enhanced knowledge and skills in content sourcing and preparation
- Partnership brokerage and networking among LIS/RAM professionals in Uganda and in the region.
The participatory workshop was facilitated by Dr. Josephine Najjemba, Dr. Rebecca Nambi, and Dr. Kajumbula; a team of experienced staff in pedagogy training from Makerere University College of Education and External Studies, School of Education.
The workshop presentations focused on the following areas:
- Education Foundations – Teaching Philosophies
- Education Foundations – Learning Theories
- Pedagogical Models: Teacher Centered vs. Learner Centered Strategies
- Teacher and Learners Roles in the Learner-Centered Pedagogy (LCP)
- Leadership in pedagogical practice
- Assessment: Principles of Assessment, and
- Technology enhanced learning
The workshop concluded with a plenary session, and award of certificates to the participants.
In a significant stride towards enhancing healthcare through technology, the Government of Uganda, in collaboration with Makerere University, has inaugurated the Artificial Intelligence Health Lab. This pioneering initiative aims to revolutionize healthcare delivery using artificial intelligence (AI), marking a crucial advancement for the nation. The lab is situated in Block B, College of Computing and Information Sciences
Launching the lab on 30th May 2024, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Aminah Zawedde highlighted the importance of this development. “Today marks a momentous occasion as we unveil the Artificial Intelligence Health Lab at Makerere University. This milestone signifies not just a step forward for the university but for our entire nation as we enter an era of innovation and advancement in healthcare through artificial intelligence,” she remarked.
Dr. Zawedde emphasized the transformative power of AI in healthcare, noting its potential to revolutionize diagnostics, treatment plans, and personalized care. She acknowledged the government’s ongoing efforts to integrate AI into healthcare through initiatives like telemedicine platforms, health data analytics, and AI-driven solutions in medical imaging and drug discovery.
However, she stressed the need for ethical and responsible AI deployment, addressing algorithmic biases, patient privacy, and equitable distribution of AI benefits.
“The Ministry of ICT & National Guidance is committed to supporting AI adoption in healthcare through policy guidance, financial support, capacity building, and infrastructure development,” Dr. Zawedde stated. She called for collaboration among government agencies, academia, healthcare providers, and technology partners to advance AI initiatives responsibly.
Government Emphasizes Homegrown Solutions and Digital Priorities
Dr. Aminah Zawedde, highlighted the importance of prioritizing locally developed solutions to better understand and effectively address national challenges. She outlined five key priorities for Uganda’s digital transition, focusing on infrastructure, accessibility, digital services, cybersecurity, data protection, privacy, digital skilling, and innovation.
Regarding infrastructure and connectivity, the government aims to expand coverage to 70% of the country within the next five years, with ongoing projects supported by the World Bank and China. This initiative targets essential institutions like schools, hospitals, administrative offices, and innovation hubs.
Ensuring accessibility of gadgets, particularly smartphones, is another critical focus area. Recognizing the importance of these devices for accessing digital technologies and apps, efforts are underway to lower costs through measures such as tax waivers and local manufacturing.
Additionally, the government is prioritizing the transition of services online to enhance efficiency, transparency, accountability, and ease of doing business. This move aligns with existing regulations and guidelines for digital transformation, with an emphasis on overcoming implementation challenges related to financial resources, capacity, and awareness creation.
Cybersecurity, data protection, and privacy are also paramount, with plans to develop trusted systems to safeguard digital infrastructure and user information. Furthermore, digital skilling initiatives aim to equip end-users and office management with the necessary skills for effective digital operations.
Finally, the government emphasizes innovation and entrepreneurship, celebrating community-driven solutions that are sustainable, acceptable, and impactful. This focus underscores the commitment to fostering a thriving ecosystem of innovation that addresses the needs of Ugandan society.
Ministry of Health Highlights Urgent Need for AI in Ugandan Healthcare
Dr. Myers Lugemwa from the National Malaria Control Program presented a compelling case for the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in Uganda’s healthcare system. Addressing the current health challenges and the potential of AI, Dr. Lugemwa underscored the transformative impact these technologies could have on disease diagnosis and management.
“Globally, low-income countries face a higher burden of communicable diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS,” Dr. Lugemwa noted. “Despite a significant global decline in these diseases, they remain prevalent in countries like Uganda, where communicable diseases account for over 50% of morbidity and mortality.”
Malaria diagnostics primarily rely on tools like mRDTs, blood slide microscopy, and PCR tests, which are either expensive or not widely available. Similar challenges exist for other diseases such as cancer, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and intestinal parasites, which are diagnosed through methods that may not be accessible at lower-level health centers.
Dr. Lugemwa highlighted the promise of Makerere University’s AI Health-Lab in addressing these diagnostic challenges. “AI tools could revolutionize the accuracy and accessibility of disease diagnosis,” he said. “From improving malaria diagnostics to streamlining cancer screening and diagnosis, AI has the potential to transform healthcare delivery in Uganda.”
Furthermore, Dr. Lugemwa discussed the role of AI in predicting disease patterns affected by climate change, such as malaria, and the importance of electronic health records (EHRs) in improving patient management and healthcare delivery.
“In summary, AI Health-Lab is poised to be a game-changer for Uganda’s healthcare system,” Dr. Lugemwa emphasized. “It aligns with Makerere University’s mission to ‘Build For the Future’ and addresses the Alma-Ata Declaration’s call for local tools that are readily available, accessible, affordable, and user-friendly. The integration of AI in healthcare is not just a technological advancement but a critical necessity for improving health outcomes in Uganda.” Lugema stressed
Makerere University’s Role
Representing Makerere University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Edward Bbaale, Director of the Directorate of Graduate Research and Training, expressed pride in the university’s achievements. He underscored Makerere’s proactive steps in promoting AI, including establishing dedicated AI labs, integrating AI courses into the curriculum, and fostering partnerships.
“The establishment of the AI Health Lab is the culmination of a vision that aligns with Makerere University’s mission to be a thought leader in research, innovation, and academic excellence,” Prof. Bbaale stated. He highlighted the lab’s role in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, with potential applications ranging from predictive models for disease outbreaks to personalized treatment plans.
Prof. Bbaale also lauded groundbreaking projects spearheaded by Makerere University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences. These include the AirQo project, which deploys low-cost air monitoring systems, and AI-based tools for agricultural disease tracking and medical diagnostics. Notably, the AI Lab, under Dr. Rose Nakasi’s leadership, secured a $1.5 million grant from Google for the Ocular project, automating diagnoses for Malaria, Tuberculosis, and Cervical Cancer.
To the students and researchers, Prof. Bbaale urged them to seize the opportunities presented by the AI Health Lab. “This lab is not just a facility; it is a beacon of possibilities. Engage deeply with the work, collaborate across disciplines, and be bold in your pursuit of solutions that can change the world,” he encouraged.
He also outlined the university’s commitment to moving the entire research value chain from conceptualization to commercialization, ensuring that research translates into products and services that benefit communities.
The launch of the AI Health Lab at Makerere University signifies a significant leap forward in Uganda’s healthcare sector. With continued support and collaboration, this initiative promises to harness the power of AI to improve health outcomes, making a tangible difference in the lives of many. As Dr. Zawedde concluded, “Let us embark on this journey with optimism and determination, knowing that our efforts today will shape the future of healthcare for generations to come.”Bbaale added
Makerere University’s AI Lab Announces Ambitious Plans for Healthcare Innovation
Makerere University’s AI Lab is embarking on an ambitious journey to revolutionize healthcare through advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Dr. Rose Nakasi, the project leader, unveiled the lab’s comprehensive strategy aimed at addressing critical health challenges and improving patient outcomes through innovative AI solutions and interdisciplinary collaboration.
In her presentation, Dr. Nakasi emphasized the lab’s vision of “Transforming Healthcare Through Innovative AI Solutions” and its mission “To drive innovation in artificial intelligence research to effectively address and overcome pressing health challenges.” The lab’s approach focuses on developing practical AI applications, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and deepening the understanding of AI’s transformative potential through rigorous research and evaluation.
Among the key projects highlighted by Dr. Nakasi is the Ocular Project, a decision support tool designed to reduce diagnosis time and improve accuracy. Supported by a recent $1.5 million grant from Google, this project aims to automate diagnoses for diseases such as Malaria, Tuberculosis, and Cervical Cancer. Additionally, the DS Malaria project focuses on in-field automated screening trials to enhance malaria diagnosis, while initiatives like curating datasets for malaria diagnostics and digital Pap smear images aim to improve the accuracy and efficiency of disease screening.
Looking ahead, Dr. Nakasi outlined the lab’s vision for continued innovation and growth, including addressing challenges in the health sector and collaborating with regulators to refine and develop new approaches for healthcare needs. She highlighted the lab’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of AI and healthcare experts, with a growing team of PhD and master’s students.
“With more innovation and focus, we aim to address the most pressing healthcare challenges and make a lasting impact on our communities,” Dr. Nakasi stated. Makerere University’s AI Lab, under her leadership, is poised to lead the way in integrating AI into healthcare, reflecting a strong commitment to leveraging technology for the betterment of society.
The opening ceremony was marked by a congratulatory address from the Principal College of Computing and Information Sciences Prof. Tonny Oyana, who lauded Dr. Rose Nakasi and her team for their exemplary research stewardship.
Oyana said the inauguration of this facility marks a significant step forward in the college’s commitment to advancing research and development in artificial intelligence, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of technological innovation
“Congratulations to Dr. Rose Nakasi and her team for their excellent research stewardship,” Prof. Oyana stated. He emphasized the lab’s potential to serve as a dynamic environment for academic growth and experimentation. “Use the new lab to learn, test, grow, and nurture academic talent,” he urged the attendees.
Prof. Oyana also highlighted the lab’s role in promoting interdisciplinary activities. “Use the lab to carry out synergistic activities that promote AI in health,” he said, stressing the importance of integrating artificial intelligence with healthcare advancements.
The facility is expected to become a cornerstone for building sustainable academic and professional relationships. “Use the lab to grow enduring pipelines and long-lasting academic activities and friendships among students and scientists,” Prof. Oyana added.
The new AI research lab, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, aims to provide greater hope and opportunities for students and scientists. “Today, we open a new facility that will provide greater hope and opportunities for our students and scientists,” Prof. Oyana concluded.
Sunbird AI Highlights Potential and Pitfalls of AI for Social Good
Prof. John Quinn from Sunbird AI delivered insightful remarks on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) for social good, emphasizing both its potential benefits and the challenges that need to be addressed.
Prof. Quinn outlined several key areas where AI can have a substantial impact. He noted that AI can compensate for the scarcity of experts by providing critical support in fields such as healthcare and education. AI can also enhance data collection and analysis, aiding in better decision-making and resource allocation. Additionally, AI can be used to create detailed maps, aiding urban planning and noise pollution monitoring.
However, Prof. Quinn also highlighted various challenges and unintended consequences associated with AI deployment. He discussed the unexpected difficulties in implementing AI solutions, including technical and human factors.
Technical challenges include limitations of power, network, and devices, which may hinder the deployment of advanced AI technologies in many regions. Furthermore, comprehensive end-to-end solutions might be required, which can be complex and resource-intensive. The lifespan of AI projects can often outlast the typical lifespan of startups or academic projects, posing sustainability challenges. Ensuring long-term functionality and support for AI systems is crucial.
Human factors also play a significant role in the challenges faced by AI deployment. Identifying the right problem from a distance can be challenging, necessitating local insights and collaboration. Successful AI projects often require significant organizational effort beyond the technical work. Building and maintaining trust among various stakeholders is essential for effective collaboration.
Prof. Quinn also addressed the unintended consequences of AI implementation. He pointed out that AI systems can perpetuate or even exacerbate existing biases if not carefully designed and monitored. Without equitable access to AI technologies, existing inequalities can be deepened. Relying on new technologies can create vulnerabilities if the infrastructure is not robust. An excessive focus on prototyping, referred to as “pilotitis,” can consume resources without leading to scalable solutions. The introduction of AI technologies often brings new ethical dilemmas that need to be addressed. Additionally, issues with the quality and representativeness of training data can lead to inaccurate or biased AI models.
Prof. Quinn’s remarks underscored the dual-edged nature of AI in social applications. While AI has the potential to address significant challenges and improve lives, it also brings technical, organizational, and ethical challenges that must be navigated carefully. As AI continues to evolve, stakeholders must work collaboratively to harness its benefits while mitigating its risks.
Testimonials Highlight the Impact of AI in Healthcare Diagnostics
Alfred Andama, reflecting on the journey from 2014 to 2024, shared compelling testimonies from Mulago Hospital, Makerere University College of Health Sciences (MakCHS), and other lower health facilities regarding the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare diagnostics.
He said Initial Target Diseases primarily centered on malaria, tuberculosis, and intestinal parasites. During data collection at various labs, Andama and his team encountered enthusiastic groups of lab practitioners eager to embrace AI for improving diagnosis.
At health centers up to level III, where young lab technicians and technologists were predominant, the prospect of using mobile applications for diagnosis elicited genuine excitement.
Andama confirmed the feasibility of utilizing smartphones at the lowest levels for diagnosis, addressing a crucial question raised by stakeholders.
“Clinicians expressed interest in the reliability and accuracy of AI-driven diagnosis tools. They sought clarity on decision-making processes compared to human judgments.
Health administrators were concerned about personnel shortages and how AI could alleviate the burden. The adoption of AI microscopy could potentially reduce the time spent on malaria smear microscopy by 25%.” Said Andama
Policy-makers according to Andama focused on affordability and feasibility, particularly for rural areas. The adaptability of AI tools to existing smartphone and microscope infrastructure was seen as a promising solution.
The discussion he said, expanded to the potential deployment of AI in sickle cell diagnosis, blood cancers, urinary tract infections, and respiratory disease smears, indicating broader applications beyond the initial scope.
He reported that Mulago hospital under the College of Health Sciences is already utilizing AI in various capacities, such as analyzing cough samples to differentiate between tuberculosis patients and those with normal cough.
Andama’s testimonies underscore the growing acceptance and implementation of AI in healthcare diagnostics, promising improved efficiency and accuracy in disease detection and treatment.
The inauguration was highlighted by panel discussions and plenary sessions on “Leveraging AI for a Healthier Future: Practical Solutions for Africa.” Notable speakers included Prof. Micheal Kawooya, Director of ECUREI; Assoc. Prof. Engineer Bainomugisha, Head of the Department of Computer Science at Makerere University; Mr. Sumba Solomon from the Ocular Project; Ms. Sylivia Nabukenya from the Infectious Disease Institute at Makerere University, Dr. Joyce Nakatumba Nabende of the AI Research Lab; and Lwasa Baker from Rocket Health.
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