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Gerda Henkel Evaluators commend CHUSS PhD Cohort System for Reviving Humanities at Mak

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A team of Evaluators from the Gerda Henkel Foundation has commended the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) for implementing the Lisa Maskel Fellowships saying, it has revived the Humanities at Makerere University.

The Evaluators led by the program Coordinator Gerda Henkel Foundation Dr Joyce Nyairu, had a three days engagement (26th-29th May 2023) with university top management, the Directorate of Graduate Research and Training, the CHUSS project steering committee, current fellows and alumni as well as the heads and Graduate studies coordinators in CHUSS

The reason for these engagements was that this programme has been in existence for ten years starting at the university Stellenbosch, then Makerere University and the University of Ghana which has been the last to join.

The lead evaluator Dr. Joyce Nyairo said, Gerda Henkel evaluates their projects after 10 years and the issue has been to go round to each one of the universities and Makerere has been the last one after Ghana and Stellenbosch.

Dr. Nyairo accompanied by Prof Andreas Eckert and Ms. Jane Frey was meeting the CHUSS Heads of Departments and graduate Studies Coordinators on 29th May 2023.

“We are here now to find out how Makerere is doing on this program not because the funding must be brought to an end but because all funding projects have the capacity for improvement”.

“What we were interested in were the lessons that have been learnt, where are the challenges, where have you made some innovations, how you are trying to overcome those challenges you are struggling with, what lessons can also be shared with other universities and where you need stronger collaboration”, Dr. Nyairo explained.

The interactions focused on aspects like supervisors and student’s needs, the need for expertise and sufficient capacity for multidisciplinary research, students’ foundational knowledge that can enable them undertake quality PhD, how the university is dealing with plagiarism, students health and ability to complete within the prescribed study period and solutions.

Dr. Joyce Nyairo in an interview after the meeting with CHUSS Staff. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Dr. Joyce Nyairo in an interview after the meeting with CHUSS Staff.

Dr. Nyairo described the conversation with the faculty, coordinators and supervisors as   fairly candid. Besides giving extensive gratitude for the scholarship, Dr. Nyairo said they expected the students to be more expressive.

“I have had fantastic conversation with the faculty talking about the intellectual scoop, how it has impacted by a program like this what are the implications for expansion, what is sacrifices and what can be gained. So, it has been a good three days of engagement. From here we make our report as evaluators to Gerda Henkel and then they decide what changes to make”.

We want to see students who have the capacity for criticism and critical judgement.

Money is one problem. It does not solve everything. so, where are the more problems. I would have loved to hear something more critical from students”, She added

Dr. Nyairo commended CHUSS for implementing the project.

“It is gratifying to see how the humanities have been revived at Makerere. It is great that the university is bench-marking other programmes based on what CHUSS is doing in this programme”.

I want to see Makerere University take on the burden of this PhD programme and begin to support some of the things and not rely on donor funds that’s how we will know that the program has been entrenched and has great impact”, The main evaluator said.

CHUSS Projects Coordinator Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi said, by the time the project closes, it would have trained 58 PhDs in historical Humanities and Humanistic Social Sciences

Dr. Nabutanyi said the CHUSS-Gerda Henkel Foundation PhD Training partnership sought to achieve three goals namely: – to assist the college reclaim the tattered image of the Humanities in the public and private tertiary institutions in the region. Second, to train the next generation of Humanities scholars to replenish the disciplines lest they die out and third, to equip the next generation of Humanities scholars with intellectual and investigative skills that can be deployed in studying the human condition in their respective societies in order to delineate the elusive concept of what it takes to ensure a good life.

“The above broad aims of the partnership have been actualised in form of the recruitment of 6 cohorts or 60 PhD Fellows from different Historical Humanities and Humanistic Social Sciences disciplines from various universities in Uganda and Sub-Saharan Africa”, Nabutanyi explained 

He said from 2017, the college received funding to train a total of 60 PhD fellows for four major cost items related to PhD training in the Historical Humanities and Humanistic Social Sciences   such as tuition, stipend, medical insurance, laptop computer, books, travel to take up the fellowship, conference attendance and field work funds.  The partnership also funded travel, personnel costs and research or PhD training costs such as buy-in-time, research workshops, retooling seminars and the CHUSS symposium.

The evaluation team interacts with Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi (R) and Dr. Okot Benge (2nd R) after the meeting. CHUSS, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
The evaluation team interacts with Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi (R) and Dr. Okot Benge (2nd R) after the meeting.

Dr. Nabutanyi also reported that 9 Fellows of the 2017 cohort did complete their studies and graduated during the 2021, 2022 and 2023 Makerere, Similarly, 6 Fellows of the 2018 cohort did complete and graduated during the 2022 and 2023 Graduation ceremonies. 2 Fellows have submitted their theses and await examination.

3 Fellows of the 2018 cohort, are expected to submit during the second half of this year and only one fellow among the 2019 cohort, has submitted his thesis for examination while the remaining 9 have not yet completed their studies 6 months after the lapse of their funding.

Nabutanyi partly attributed the poor rate of completion among the 2018 and 2019 cohort to the impact of COVID-19 of their studies adding that the 2018 cohort got supplementary covid funding hoping to organise a similar intervention for the 2019 cohort.

The funding according to Dr. Nabutanyi had an indicative budgetary component of USD 55,600 that was earmarked for material, equipment, and renovations expenses for the college.

The funding as reported by Dr. Nabutanyi has also supported and/or allowed the college to innovate regarding an intellectual/scholarly infrastructure.

CHUSS & Funders discuss possible extension of the PhD study period

Dr. Nabutanyi noted that the college and funders have noted the challenges that come with the time of three years to complete the PhD and going forward, the timeline is going to be reviewed so that the interests of the students and the funders and the college are taken care of.

Speaker after speaker commended the program for the positive attributes

“The funded students have a specific time within which to complete their programme and the work is scheduled. With these funds, students are given seminars where academic writing, research methodology and other aspects of their PhD are taught”, Dr. Charlotte Mafumbo.

Some of the CHUSS staff that attended the meeting. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Some of the CHUSS staff that attended the meeting.

Dr Elizabeth Kyazike expressed gratitude for the Gedah Henkel funding on grounds that it has opened up opportunities for funding non- priority program like archaeology and that it has been difficult to find archaeologists with PhDs in Uganda.

“Archaeologists do a lot of experiments and to do an internationally recognised PhD within three years is not possible. In archaeology, the pressure is immense and the sacrifice is the health of students who are almost running crazy given the university requirement that they must publish in order to graduate” Dr. Elizabeth Kyazike.

“The period given is 3-5 years and indeed some people have done it in 3 years but bear in mind that it has impact on the quality of the product because we have year 1 of proposal writing, so we have 2 years so it is likely to have impact on the quality of the PhD”. Another lecturer submitted.

Dr. Lutwama – Rukundo Evelyn noted that although the project has a strong coordination unit ensuring that students meet the deadlines, submit progress reports and organise seminars, the 3-year scholarship limit also affects the mental health of supervisors.

“The 3year constraint also impacts on the mental health of supervisors who have to balance supervision of the PhDs, teaching masters and undergraduate students, conducting research, publications, community services and attracting funding, and meeting social life needs and obligation inclusive”, Dr. Lutwama – Rukundo Evelyn.

To Dr. Zaid Sekito, it is possible to complete a PhD in 3 years because many have made it but the only challenge is that students abscond and   forget they are full time and fully funded. “We need to change the mindset of students to know that they are full tine irrespective of whether they are nationals or foreign” Dr, Sekito said.

Dr. Orikiriza Celestino noted that although the program has brought on board PhD students for faculty for mentorship and an almanac that is followed including seminars, conferences, workshops where students are encouraged to present that have led to improvements, the sacrifice that comes with the 3-year limit is the scope of the study.

“From my students experience, we are supposed to do three dimensions of the scope of the study but we ended up doing only one because the student had to finish within the funding period” Prof. Wamala said.

Prof. Peter Atekyereza (L) flanked by his CHUSS colleagues contributes to the discussion during the meeting. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Prof. Peter Atekyereza (L) flanked by his CHUSS colleagues contributes to the discussion during the meeting.

Prof. Peter Atekyereza commended Gerda Henkel for providing funds for the most neglected areas but noted that there is a challenge of completing in 3years when one is a fully funded student at home with many competing needs resulting into mental illness but noone declares.

Citing his student conducting a study on engendering military on peace missions from different states, Atekyereza said it was challenging to get interviews from states to produce data worth a PhD within the three-year study time.

“There are social and emotional risks that is why students suffer in silence and are not willing to declare that they are mentally ill because it has implications for work, the family and public image” Dr. Atekyereza added

Dr. Roscoe submitted that very few people finish PhD in three years and those that succeed go through mental stress and are unhappy

.“The sacrifice is the mental health of the student. I want a scholar to discover and explore who they are. Sometimes they should be granted breaks. I always don’t see people who are happy because there is too much pressure. Context is key but what about the well-being of the student and the stress experienced by the supervisor. We want to restore the dignity of the scholar and let us make academic writing fun”

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Jane Anyango

Humanities & Social Sciences

Makerere Marks 40 Years of Cultural and Academic Cooperation with the Italian Ethnographic Mission

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At exhibition site on 16th May 2025. L-R: Amb. Mauro Massoni, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Cecilia Pennacini, Prof. Alessandro Gusman, Prof. Dominic Dipio (2nd R) and other officials. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.

Minister calls on universities  to Mainstream Cultural Studies

Kampala, Uganda | May 16, 2025Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled “Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region.”

The exhibition, hosted at the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), visually chronicles over 40 years of Italian ethnographic research in Equatorial Africa. Since its establishment in 1979, the Italian Ethnological Mission—anchored at the University of Turin—has documented and studied the social and cultural fabric of the Great Lakes Region, including Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania.

Funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and supported by the Erasmus+ programme, the mission focuses on topics including refugee integration, traditional knowledge, oral history, and cultural continuity.

The exhibition aims to share the Mission’s ethnographic insights, celebrate academic cooperation between Uganda and Italy, and highlight the deep interwoven cultural legacies of the region’s communities.

Commissioner Timothy Ssejjoba representing the Minister at the launch. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
Commissioner Timothy Ssejjoba representing the Minister at the launch.

Presiding over the official opening on behalf of the Honorable Minister of State for Higher Education, Dr. John Chrysestom Muyingo, Commissioner Timothy Ssejjoba delivered a message emphasizing the educational significance of the initiative.

“This is not merely an exhibition of images,” he said. “It is a profound representation of intellectual partnership, cultural dialogue, and the enduring power of research and education to shape societies.”

Drawing inspiration from an African proverb—”When a child washes their hands, they dine with kings”—he acknowledged the honor of representing the Minister at such a distinguished gathering and used the opportunity to reaffirm government support for cultural preservation and academic innovation.

Commissioner Ssejjoba noted that Uganda’s aspirations, as articulated in the Vision 2040 and successive National Development Plans (NDP III and IV), align strongly with the goals of ethnographic research. He highlighted that investing in cultural heritage is not merely nostalgic but strategic for human capital development, social cohesion, and regional integration.

The entire team in group photo at the Main Building entrance. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
The entire team in group photo at the Main Building entrance.

“In today’s world of globalization and displacement, ethnographic work becomes indispensable. It helps us preserve intangible heritage and build resilient, inclusive communities,” he said.

The commissioner commended the Italian Ethnological Mission, founded by Prof. Francesco Remotti and carried forward by Prof. Cecilia Pennacini and current Director Prof. Alessandro Gusman, for their long-standing engagement with Uganda and the wider Great Lakes Region.

Ministerial Appeal: Cultural Studies Are a Necessity, Not a Luxury

A key message in his remarks was a direct call to Uganda’s higher education institutions:

“I therefore call upon our universities to continue integrating cultural studies into mainstream curricula—not as a luxury, but as a necessity in building well-rounded, empathetic, and informed citizens.”

This appeal was underpinned by the government’s commitment to transformative education, as outlined in the Social Education Sector Strategic Plan, which seeks to produce globally minded graduates capable of addressing complex societal issues.

Italian Embassy officials, Minstry of Education and Sports representative, college coordinator and Principal in a group photo with the Ambassador and Vice Chancellor after meeting. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
Italian Embassy officials, Ministry of Education and Sports representative, college coordinator and Principal in a group photo with the Ambassador and Vice Chancellor after meeting.

The commissioner also lauded the Erasmus+ Programme for facilitating student and staff mobility between Makerere and the University of Turin, significantly improving PhD completion rates and strengthening international research ties.

The Connecting Cultures exhibition offers a visual journey through four decades of ethnographic work, touching on themes such as identity, migration, oral traditions, music, and the social lives of communities across the region. It serves not only as a scholarly archive but also as a bridge between past and future generations.

“These photographs are living stories,” Ssejjoba emphasized. “They reflect identity, tradition, and the power of memory in shaping who we are—and who we aspire to become.”

In echoing the day’s theme, Commissioner Ssejjoba described the exhibition as “a testament to the transformative power of education, culture, and international solidarity.” He called upon development partners to support similar initiatives that use culture as a tool for peacebuilding, intercultural dialogue, and inclusive development.

CHUSS Heads of Unit in a photo moment with the invited guests. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
CHUSS Heads of Unit in a photo moment with the invited guests.

“To the students, researchers, and the broader public,” he concluded, “may you draw inspiration from this work. Let us preserve our cultural heritage, connect across borders, and use education as a force for progress.”

Italy Backs Cross-Cultural Research as Key to Social Transformation – Ambassador Massoni

Italy’s Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Mauro Massoni, hailed cross-cultural academic collaboration as a powerful vehicle for social change, policy innovation, and mutual understanding, calling the partnership between Makerere University and the University of Turin a model for international cooperation.

Ambassador Massoni praised the longstanding collaboration between Italian and Ugandan scholars, particularly through the Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region. He noted that the mission, established over four decades ago, continues to foster intercultural dialogue and tackle shared global challenges through ethnographic research.

“This exhibition offers more than images. It tells the story of enduring cooperation—academic, cultural, and human—between our two countries,” he said. “It’s a testament to what we can achieve when we work together across disciplines, borders, and continents.”

Ambassador Mauro Massoni delivering his speech during the launch. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
Ambassador Mauro Massoni delivering his speech during the launch.

The Ambassador commended the University of Turin, particularly Professors Alessandro Gusman and Cecilia Pennacini, for their leadership in driving fieldwork-based research that links academia with community needs. He emphasized that the mission has not only enriched scholarly understanding but also played a role in social dialogue, community engagement, and humanitarian advocacy.

“This partnership transcends academic borders. It contributes to policy development and community cohesion. It shows how research—when rooted in empathy and equity—can improve lives,” he said.

Ambassador Massoni also spotlighted collaborative projects such as those examining migration, refugee experiences, and mobility in East Africa, many of which are supported by the Erasmus+ programme. These joint initiatives, he said, help address pressing social issues through shared academic pathways.

“Such work strengthens mutual comprehension and confronts the complex realities shaping our societies today,” he noted.

The Ambassador signs the Visitors' book flanked by the Vice Chancellor and Principal CHUSS. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
The Ambassador signs the Visitors’ book flanked by the Vice Chancellor and Principal CHUSS.

Additionally, he highlighted the recent launch of the Strengthening African-Italian Museum Partnerships project, supported by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation. The initiative aims to digitize and preserve African cultural heritage in collaboration with major Italian and African museums, including the Uganda Museum.

“Italy is proud to support this effort. We see scientific diplomacy and cultural heritage as powerful tools for trust, understanding, and long-term collaboration,” he said.

In closing, Ambassador Massoni expressed gratitude to Makerere University and the wider academic and curatorial teams behind the exhibition. He encouraged guests to view the display not only as a celebration of past work but also as a call to future action.

“Let us continue building together—not only academic bridges—but human ones,” he concluded.

We must train more Archeologists and Anthropologists- Vice Chancellor Prof. Nawangwe

Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe  hailed universities as key agents of peacebuilding and intercultural dialogue, emphasizing their critical role in advancing global understanding amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Prof. Nawangwe praised the longstanding collaboration between Makerere University and Italian institutions, calling it a shining example of how academic partnerships can foster peace and mutual respect.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe delivering his speech during the official launch. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe delivering his speech during the official launch.

“Universities are the best engines for promoting peace in the world. There is no better institution than a university to bring people and cultures together,” Prof. Nawangwe asserted.

Reflecting on historical ties, Nawangwe recalled the substantial support Makerere received from the Italian government during the 1987 donor conference, particularly in reviving the Faculty of Technology. He noted that the impact of such partnerships goes beyond infrastructure and education, contributing to nation-building and lasting international friendships.

“I personally benefited from those exchanges. I lived in Italy for a month, studied the language, and engaged with Italian culture. These interactions create lifelong connections,” he said.

He pointed to Makerere‘s global footprint as a leading research institution, recently ranked by Times Higher Education as the most collaborative university in the world, based on international research partnerships.

“At Makerere, we have more researchers publishing with colleagues from other universities than anywhere else. This collaborative spirit reflects our belief in academic diplomacy as a force for development,” he explained.

Prof. Nawangwe hands over a Certificate of Appreciation to the Ambassador for the 100 years of collaboration. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe hands over a Certificate of Appreciation to the Ambassador for the 100 years of collaboration.

Prof. Nawangwe highlighted the university’s particularly strong ties with Italy, noting that most of its Erasmus+ academic exchange agreements are with Italian institutions. He attributed this to the deep-rooted friendship between Uganda and Italy, with Makerere acting as “Uganda compressed in one place.”

Praising the exhibition’s vivid portrayal of East and Central African cultural heritage through photography, Nawangwe called visual documentation one of the most powerful tools for preserving and communicating knowledge.

“A photographic illustration is the strongest kind of evidence. It stays with you. What I saw today helped bring to life things I’ve only read or heard about,” he said.

The Vice Chancellor also expressed concern over the limited development of disciplines like archaeology in Uganda, describing it as “a shame” that the country only recently graduated its first archaeologist.

Italian Embassy Officials, Ministry of Education and Sports Representative, and the College representative in a brief meeting with the Vice Chancellor. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
Italian Embassy Officials, Ministry of Education and Sports Representative, and the College representative in a brief meeting with the Vice Chancellor.

“With all our cultural diversity and historical wealth, how can archaeology be new in Uganda? We must train more archaeologists and anthropologists to study our own heritage,” he urged.

He concluded by encouraging scholars to remain committed to cultural research and international collaboration, thanking the Italian Embassy for its continued support in fostering ties between Uganda and Italy.

“We must keep walking in our pursuit of knowledge, peace, and progress for Uganda and the world,” Nawangwe said, in his characteristic blend of seriousness and humor.

Nkabala Calls for Introduction of Italian Language at Makerere to Deepen Cultural Connections

Associate Professor Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), called for the introduction of Italian language instruction at the university as a strategic step in strengthening cultural and academic ties between Uganda and Italy.

 Prof. Nkabala emphasized the importance of language in fostering deeper intercultural understanding and advancing the university’s global engagement agenda.

Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala making her remarks. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala making her remarks.

“In addition to what is already happening, we’d like to invite you to the School of Languages, Literature, and Communication so that we can start teaching Italian at Makerere University. When we talk about connecting cultures, issues of poetry come in,” Nkabala said.

The principal highlighted the longstanding relationship between Makerere University and Italian academic institutions, referencing ongoing collaborations with the University of Turin, the European Academy of Religion, and new engagements with Sapienza University of Rome. She also acknowledged support from Italian scholars such as Prof. Alessandro Gusman and Prof. Cecilia Pennacini.

“Friends, today is testimony that the College of Humanities and Social Sciences will use all that is within its means to change the narrative,” she said, referring to the exhibition as a powerful demonstration of the college’s research impact and cultural outreach.

Prof. Nkabala praised Makerere’s deans, heads of departments, and academic staff for their collective efforts in organizing the exhibition, and extended special appreciation to the Italian Embassy in Kampala for its continued logistical and visa support, which has enabled seamless academic exchange.

“Our academics never get problems because you have a very dynamic team. We thank you very much for allowing them the opportunity to support us when we need it,” she noted, addressing Italian Ambassador Mauro Massoni directly.

The Principal, VC, Ambassador and Minister's representative in a group photo with the Italian Mission officials. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
Italian Embassy officials, Ministry of Education and Sports representative, college coordinator and Principal in a group photo with the Ambassador and Vice Chancellor after meeting.

She also paid tribute to predecessors, including Prof. Josephine Ahikire and the former Principal  Prof. Edward Kirumira, for their role in laying the foundation for enduring academic partnerships between Uganda and Italy.

As the College of Humanities and Social Sciences continues to expand its international footprint, Nkabala urged faculty and students to remain committed to collaboration and participation in future joint initiatives.

“Colleagues, I call upon you to be present when called upon,” she said, reaffirming CHUSS’ dedication to cultural diplomacy through research, language, and the arts.

Africa Offers the World Wisdom and Science—Prof. Pennacini Urges New Era of Equal Academic Partnerships

 Professor Cecilia Pennacini, former Director of the Italian Ethnographic Mission in the Great Lakes Region called for a paradigm shift in Africanist research and cultural cooperation, asserting that Africa offers the world invaluable wisdom, philosophy, and science.

Prof. Pennacini emphasized that Italian scholars came to Africa “not to teach, but to learn.”

“The ancient civilizations of Africa have so much to teach the Western world—in terms of knowledge, wisdom, philosophy, politics, even science and art,” she said. “This is why our mission has always been grounded in humility and mutual respect.”

Prof. Cecilia Pennacini reading her speech. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Cecilia Pennacini reading her speech.

Prof. Pennacini reflected on the foundational vision of the Italian Ethnographic Mission, established by her mentor, Prof. Francesco Remotti, who advocated for fieldwork rooted in cultural dialogue rather than colonial paradigms of knowledge extraction.

Upon assuming leadership of the Mission in 2005, Pennacini prioritized creating equal academic partnerships. She credited this approach with the establishment of a formal collaboration with Makerere University, which has since flourished through joint research, teaching exchanges, and mobility programs funded by the European Union’s Erasmus+ initiative.

“We have grown together—building common knowledge and hopefully laying foundations for future generations,” she noted.

Prof. Pennacini also announced a major new initiative aimed at transforming museum practice and cultural preservation across Africa and Europe. The project, Strengthening African-Italian Museum Partnerships, is supported by the Italian Agency for International Development Cooperation (AICS) and will connect eight museums—four in Africa and four in Italy.

Participating institutions include the Uganda Museum, the National Museum of Ethiopia, the National Museum of Lubumbashi in the DRC, and the Ethnographic Museum at Addis Ababa University. These will collaborate with the Museum of Civilizations in Rome, the Royal Museums of Turin, the Savoy Residences in Piedmont, and the Anthropology and Ethnography Museum at the University of Turin.

At the exhibition site. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
At the exhibition site.

“This project seeks to digitize, catalogue, and valorize ethnological and artistic collections through a participatory approach,” she said. “It will involve local communities, diaspora groups, and civil society as co-creators of museum life.”

Prof. Pennacini stressed the need for museums to be transparent about the provenance of their collections and to embrace inclusive narratives that reflect source communities’ voices. She tied this initiative to Italy’s broader commitment to a redefined model of cooperation inspired by the Mattei Plan for Africa, which promotes non-exploitative, mutually beneficial partnerships.

“Culture must be seen as a fundamental pillar of human development—socially, economically, and intellectually,” she concluded.

Italian Ethnological Mission Celebrates 46 Years of Cultural Research and Partnership in the Great Lakes Region — Prof. Gusman

 Professor Alessandro Gusman, Director of the Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region, reaffirmed the mission’s enduring commitment to linking people, cultures, and institutions across national borders through academic and cultural research.

Prof. Gusman described the event as both a celebration and a reflection on 46 years of Italian ethnological research in East Africa, particularly the Great Lakes Region.

“This exhibition retraces the history of our work and celebrates our long-standing collaboration with Makerere University, one of the most esteemed academic institutions in East Africa,” he said.

Prof. Alessandro Gusman addressing the audience. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Alessandro Gusman addressing the audience.

The Italian Ethnological Mission, founded in 1979 by Prof. Francesco Remotti in what was then Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo), has progressively expanded its research footprint across the region—later including Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. It officially began its partnership with Makerere in 2004, a relationship Prof. Gusman said has significantly shaped the mission’s academic trajectory.

“The title Connecting Cultures reflects the mission’s core goal understanding and linking diverse societies through shared anthropological inquiry,” Prof. Gusman noted.

He expressed gratitude to the Italian Embassy in Kampala for its continued support, and to the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) at Makerere University for hosting and nurturing the partnership over two decades.

Special acknowledgment was extended to Prof. Cecilia Pennacini, who led the Mission from 2004 to 2018, for deepening the collaboration with Makerere and expanding research into Uganda. Prof. Gusman emphasized that the Mission’s work has always prioritized cultural continuity and regional interconnectivity through language, social structures, and institutions.

“The photographs and texts featured in this exhibition are the result of decades of collaborative research and dialogue,” he said. “They are not just artifacts—they are bridges between nations, histories, and academic traditions.”

Looking forward, Prof. Gusman expressed hope that the partnership would continue to flourish, enhancing academic prestige and generating lasting societal impact.

“Our hope for the future is that these collaborations will grow deeper, bringing not only recognition to the institutions involved but also creating meaningful change across communities,” he concluded.

Makerere’s Prof. Dipio: Italian Collaboration Brings Cultures and Institutions Closer

Professor Dominic Dipio, Coordinator of the ERASMUS Mobility Program at Makerere University,  praised the ongoing academic and cultural partnership between Uganda and Italy, calling it a powerful force for diplomacy and institutional connection.

 Prof. Dipio highlighted how collaborative efforts between the University of Turin, Makerere, and the Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region have served to “bring Italy closer to Uganda.”

“Exhibitions like this are important because many Ugandans, especially those shaped by British colonial heritage, know little about Italy. These events narrow that gap,” she said.

Prof. Dipio Dominic making her welcome remarks. Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Turin and the Italian Embassy in Kampala, marked four decades of academic and cultural partnership with a landmark photographic exhibition titled "Connecting Cultures: The Italian Ethnological Mission in the Great Lakes Region" 16th May 2025, Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Dipio Dominic making her welcome remarks.

The exhibition, organized in partnership with the Italian Embassy in Kampala, builds on a previous one held in 2022. Prof. Dipio lauded the long-standing academic ties facilitated by the European Union’s Erasmus+ program, which has enabled robust student and staff mobility between the two universities since 2016.

“This triangular relationship between the Government of Italy, Erasmus+, and our universities has allowed Makerere students to spend up to ten months in Italy completing their dissertations — a rare opportunity that boosts our PhD completion rates significantly,” he noted.

Prof. Dipio emphasized the critical role of scholars in diplomacy, stating that research and academic exchange naturally weave connections across cultures and borders.

“The work of scholars often goes beyond classrooms and papers. It becomes a means of international dialogue and peacebuilding,” he said.

She also commended the logistical teams from Makerere, the University of Turin, and the Italian Embassy — particularly the visa section — for enabling seamless academic travel.

“Your commitment, your flexibility, and your belief in this partnership have made it thrive. We are grateful,” Dipio said, addressing embassy representatives present.

The exhibition showcases decades of ethnographic research by the Italian mission and emphasizes themes of cultural continuity, social institutions, and intercultural exchange in the Great Lakes region. Prof. Dipio expressed hope that the exhibition panels remain accessible for more students and faculty to benefit from before the academic break.

“We pray this collaboration continues to flourish. It is not just institutional — it is deeply personal. We now call each other by our first names, a sign of the trust and friendship we’ve built,” she concluded.

The Connecting Cultures exhibition is part of a broader movement at Makerere University to internationalize its academic outlook and deepen ties with institutions around the world, especially in the humanities and social sciences.

Jane Anyango is the Principal Communication Officer CHUSS

Jane Anyango

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Engineering, Art & Tech

Advert: Application for Additional Undergraduate Programmes 2025/26

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The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites applications from Ugandan, East African, and international applicants for the undergraduate programmes under the private sponsorship scheme for the 2025/2026 Academic Year.

The following Programmes have been added:

  • Bachelor of Science in Computer and Communications Engineering (CCE)
  • Bachelor of Social Sciences (Day and Evening)

Other relevant information can be obtained from UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS OFFICE, LEVEL 3, SENATE BUILDING OR CAN BE found on the University Website https://www.mak.ac.ug.

How to submit your application                                            

  1. Applicants should access the Institution’s Admissions URL https://apply.mak.ac.ug/
  2. Sign up by clicking on the REGISTER NOW. Use your full name, e-mail and Mobile No.  Please note that your name must be similar to the one on your supporting academic documents for your application to be considered valid.
  3. A password will be sent to you on your mobile phone and email.                                      
  4. The system will prompt you to change the password to the one you can easily remember.
  5. To fill an application form, click on the APPLY NOW button displayed on the appropriate running scheme.                                              
  6. Obtain a payment reference number by clicking on “Pay for Form” Button
  7. Make a payment at any of the banks used by Uganda Revenue Authority                                            

MOBILE MONEY PAYMENT STEPS:                                                 

  1. Dial *272*6# on either MTN or Airtel                                                             
  2. Select option 3-Admission                                                     
  3. Select option 3-Pay Fees
  4. Enter reference number obtained from Application portal 
  5. Details of Application form will be confirmed                                                              
  6. Enter PIN to confirm payment                                                            

The closing date for receiving applications to undergraduate programmes shall be Tuesday 27th May 2025.                                                           

WARNING:                                                             

  1. Applicants are strongly warned against presenting forged or other people’s academic documents to support their applications for admission.  The consequences, if discovered, are very grave indeed.
  2. Do not buy any other documents not originating from the Academic Registrar’s Office.  Those who buy them do so at their own risk. 
  3. The Academic Registrar has not appointed any agent to act on his behalf to solicit for additional funds other than the application fee stated above.    
  4. Applicants are advised to use the right programme names and codes. the university will not be responsible for any wrong information entered in the system by applicants.                                               

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

Mak Editor

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Humanities & Social Sciences

Call for Applications: MISR Interdisciplinary MPhil/PhD Programme 2026

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The Okot p'Bitek Pavilion, Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR) engulfed in greenery. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere Institute of Social Research launched its interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Social Studies program in January 2012.

This five-year program comprises three years of coursework leading to the attainment of a Master of Philosophy in social studies, followed by two years dedicated to fieldwork and dissertation writing, culminating in the award of a Ph.D. in social studies. Four broad themes define the program’s intellectual focus: Political Studies, Political Economy, Historical Studies, and Cultural and Literary Studies. While students specialize in one field, they engage in coursework across all four themes. This allows students to be grounded theoretically while also giving them a broad foundation in historically informed debates in the humanities and social sciences. Additionally, students are required to complete core courses focusing on theory and historiography. The courses are taught by MISR faculty, faculty from other Makerere departments, and prominent visiting scholars through the MISR Global Scholars program. As the fourteenth cohort progresses,  applications are now open for the fifteenth cohort, which will commence in January 2026.

Admission Criteria

The MISR Interdisciplinary MPhil/PhD program is open to applicants who hold at least a Bachelor’s degree with a Second Class (Upper Division) or its equivalent. Applicants with a Second Class (Lower Division) may be considered if they provide clear evidence of academic maturity, such as a postgraduate diploma or substantial research experience. All admitted candidates must complete the entire program, including two years of coursework, regardless of their previous academic qualifications.

Application procedure

Apply through the application portal.

Online Application Portal user-guide

  1. Visit the Makerere University’s Admissions URL: https://apply.mak.ac.ug
  2. Sign up using full name, e-mail and Mobile No.  Please note that your name must be similar to the one on your supporting academic documents for your application to be considered valid.
  3. A password will be sent to both your email and mobile number.
  4. The system will prompt you to change the password to the one you can easily remember.
  5. To fill a form (all form sections must be filled) the applicant clicks on the APPLY NOW button (for first time applicants) or MY PORTAL button (for renewal of application) displayed on the appropriate scheme i.e. Taught PhDs, Masters & Postgrad Diplomas OR PhD by Research.
  6. All academic transcripts/certificates and passport photos should be scanned and uploaded on the system.
  7. You can access the referee’s letter by following the following link: Referee-Recommendation. This should be filled, scanned and uploaded.
  8. Obtain a payment ref no. by clicking on “Pay for Form” button
  9. Make payments at any of the banks used by URA.  i)   Application fee = Ugx 50,000 (East African applicants) or Ugx 151,500 (International Applicants)
  10. International students can make payments for admission via Visa. In order to make a payment via Visa/plastique, follow the detailed guidelines on the link: Fees payment using visa-mastercard

Fees

The fee structure is as follows:

  • Ugandans/East Africans: 4 million Uganda Shillings per semester. East Africa includes Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, Djibouti, Congo, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Comoros, Mauritius, and Madagascar.
  • Students from outside East Africa: US$4,000 per semester.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Every applicant who is admitted will automatically be considered for financial aid. Download the scholarship application form at: Application form

Strictly observe the closing date of Friday, May 30, 2025.

Responses to successful applicants will be sent out by Friday, July 21, 2025.

Please send an email notification to applications.misr@gmail.com once you have completed your application.

For more information about the MISR MPhil/Ph.D. program, or about MISR, please contact the Director of MISR at director.misr@mak.ac.ug or visit the MISR website at: http://www.misr.mak.ac.ug.

Mak Editor

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