General
Empower the Youth to take advantage of AfCFTA-H.E. Jallow-Tambajang
The Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) Presidential Lecture Series (PLS) is an annual event that brings together prominent speakers, great leaders and thinkers to Makerere University to engage in thought-provoking conversations with stakeholders particularly students and the youth. Held from 6th to 8th June, the 2023 edition of the PLS was graced by Her Excellency Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang, former Vice President of The Gambia. As such, Her Excellency held one-on-one discussions with Young Female Leaders at a Media Blitz Roundtable on 6th, steered a Cross-generational Fireside (Ekyooto) Conversation with Female University Student Leaders on 7th and crowned it all with a Keynote Address on 8th June on the theme “Celebrating Women, Pan-Africanism and Community”.
“Coming back to Uganda, Kampala, Entebbe makes me feel very proud and honoured and happy to see that Uganda is growing both in terms of economic and social development but also the friendliness, the fraternity that I have always known” H.E. Jallow-Tambajang cheerfully remarked as she commenced her address. Her joy was indeed tangible as she recalled with nostalgia the time she spent in Uganda as a newly-married sixteen (16) year old housewife, later returning as a UN Expert for Missions around 1993.
In the same breath, she paid tribute to her Ugandan “Father” Ambassador Matiya Lubega, with whom she worked for close to five years in The Gambia. Amb. Lubega served as Resident Representative and Co-coordinator of United Nations activities in The Gambia in the late 1980s and was commended by Her Excellency for being truly Pan-African in ensuring that UNDP programs were responsive to needs and realities of the Gambian people. In so doing, she noted, Amb. Lubega transcended the elitist attitude often exuded by international experts and used the opportunity to connect with and empower the people.
Empowerment, particularly of the youth, is important in the African context where only 5-10% of national resources are invested in their programmes. “What we need to do is knock at every door and see what opportunities are available” remarked H.E. Jallow-Tambajang. “The AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area) provides billions of dollars for entrepreneurship; the African Development Bank also has a programme (The Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Multi-Donor Trust Fund) which is giving so much money to the African Youth” she added, addressing political and other leaders.
Her Excellency’s remark was premised on the need for Africa to invest in her youth in order to sustain the continent’s aspirations to put people at the centre of development programmes, as envisioned by the “unify and uplift” principle of Pan-Africanism. She explained that the Pan-African spirit is rooted in the African culture of solidarity, sharing, leaving the comfort zone, and opting to serve mankind, aspects that she said have slowly been erased.
“The talent Africa has is a talent that has been underutilized, when we have everything. What we need is a sense of justice, really including the Pan-African spirit; rather than sitting in our corners and saying ‘I’m Gambian, I’m Ugandan,’ we say we are Pan-Africans” she remarked.
Turning to the area of Women, H.E. Jallow-Tambajang outlined misconceptions about Islam and the older more experienced women not communicating enough as some of challenges experienced in the quest to economically and politically empower women.
“People who do not understand religion will say that Islam suppresses women whereas when you look at the Holy Quran, God has confined two verses to women… the other challenge we have had is the fact that the elderly women have not been communicating enough with the young people to impart knowledge and pass the baton to prepare them for leadership” she noted.
To address the latter, Her Excellency demonstrated her commitment to pass the baton of leadership to the younger generation by introducing her granddaughter, Ms. Ejatou Barry, a personal assistant in her philanthropic work. In the same breath, she recognized Ms. Charlene Ruto, a Youth Champion and Advocate for Climate Change Action for her work, despite sections of the public linking it to State funding by virtue of her being a daughter to Kenyan President H.E. William Ruto.
H.E. Jallow-Tambajang saluted President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for embodying the Pan-African spirit by waiving her requirement for a visa in order to attend the Lecture Series. She equally recognized Dr. Nansozi K. Muwanga, Executive Director, JNLC for her role in ensuring that she made the trip to attend the PLS and pledged as a Senior Citizen, to establish twinning relationships between JNLC and institutions in The Gambia.
“When I go back, I will look at how I can influence to have more students come to Makerere University and vice-versa, I can try as much as possible to influence how Makerere University students can also go to other parts of Africa that I have visited, because that is the way we can develop the culture of Pan-Africanism, the culture of solidarity, and the culture of sharing knowledge” she added.
Her Excellency had some nuggets of wisdom to share with the youth too. “Young men usually think when they are educated and have their PhDs, they no longer need the elders” she observed, before emphasizing “this is the time you need elders. What the elders are going to give you in terms of wisdom, you cannot read from books… the elders have the experience; they have journeyed through life with little resources and are able to help you.”
She equally urged the youth to use social media as a tool to empower each other, reach out to peers in the Pan-African setting and learn from their good experiences. And whereas the Former Vice President respected the youth’s right to protest, she urged them to choose the path of dialogue instead. “Every time you go onto the streets, you are losing something. If you break infrastructure and want to become leaders, where will you find the resources to rebuild your countries?” she reasoned.
H.E. Jallow-Tambajang concluded by urging African political leaders, thinkers and policy makers to make the dream of a borderless Africa a reality so as to eliminate the barriers to free trade imposed on us by colonial boundaries. “Africa’s vision is shared prosperity and this can no longer hold without empowering the youth through entrepreneurship and different leadership fora they want.”
The Chairperson of Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara who graced the PLS thanked H.E. Jallow-Tambajang for making the trip to Makerere to deliver her keynote address. Quoting from Mwalimu Julius Nyerere’s famous book “Women’s Freedom: Women are Eagles, Not Chickens” she reiterated the University leadership’s commitment to ensuring that the youth, particularly women that go through the gates of Makerere University will be empowered to straighten their wings and fly like the eagles that they truly are.
She noted that Makerere has consistently been an advocate of women’s emancipation, right from the 1945 admission of the first six females and the 1990 enactment of 1.5 extra points for all female students to the 2019 policy providing for a 40 percent enrollment quota for female students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and the 2021 policy doubling the number of awards under the Female Scholarship Initiative (FSI) from 20 to 40.
“All these milestones notwithstanding, it is of utmost importance that our students enjoy an environment that is conducive to academic excellence and free of any form of abuse… with support of our partners, we have revised our Policy and Regulations Against Sexual Harassment and empowered our Gender Mainstreaming Directorate to receive and investigate any allegations of sexual harassment levelled against our staff and students” she added.
Mrs. Magara congratulated the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre on their efforts to groom and equip our young leaders with the moral campus for leadership and a willingness to serve through various courses, which have even been used to induct Student Leaders of the 88th Guild.
Elaborating further on the JNLC’s role in empowering students, Executive Director Dr. Suzie Nansozi Muwanga said that Centre’s youth leadership training programme is aimed at addressing skills gaps among young leaders through short courses in Financial Literacy, self-awareness as well as mental health and wellbeing. “One of the products we are particularly proud of; a tailored leadership course, will be made available on the Makerere University E-Learning Environment (MUELE) platform and accessible to all students starting this academic year.”
She added that in H.E. Jallow-Tambajang, the JNLC had found the perfect candidate to deliver the 2023 PLS. “Her Excellency’s track record as a mediator, human rights defender, political activist, and effective advocate for women’s rights, in addition to being a champion of basic education, maternal care, healthcare and women in entrepreneurship is nothing short of remarkable. Furthermore, her ability to do all this while fulfilling her obligations as a mother paints an amazing picture for our young women and aspiring female university student leaders to emulate.”
PLS 2023 also featured a panel discussion moderated by Ms. Charlene Ruto, with the 89th Guild President H.E. Maseruka Robert, Vice President Uganda Management Institute (UMI) Guild Union, Ms. Akatukunda Maureen, and former Makerere Guild Minister and Lawyer, Ms. Kirabo Marion as panelists.
Delivering the closing remarks, Director General UMI, Dr. James Nkata clarified that Pan-Africanism is neither an agenda, nor an event, nor a political slogan but rather a supra philosophy that all other philosophies on the continent are supposed to fit within. He added that leaders are not made but grown through the process of socialization. “The social structures that bring up the human beings that live in those communities are the ones that grow the leaders.”
Consequently, Dr. Nkata clarified that Pan-Africanism cannot be promoted through legislative announcements but through societal socializations. He therefore urged JNLC to initiate research on how we can 1) re-socialize our societies to develop a new conscience of Pan-Africanism where everybody is accorded equal opportunity and 2) de-construct human constructs in Africa that demean women, “because it is through academia that knowledge is generated and value is created.”
The day would have been incomplete without a display of culture and creativity, and the Department of Performing Arts and Film was on hand to deliver a thrilling display of dance as well as an original composition by Dr. Milton Wabyona. To crown it all, the 89th Guild represented by President H.E. Maseruka Robert and Finance Minister Ms. Kiranda Sharifah presented a portrait by the School of Liberal and Performing Arts GRC, Mr. Ainamaani Brian to H.E. Jallow-Tambajang. PLS 2023 was moderated by the Acting Deputy Principal, School of Law, Dr. Zahara Nampewo and Principal Public Relations Officer, Ms. Ritah Namisango.
General
Hands-On RIMS Training Equips Makerere University College Registrars to Power Graduate Success and Research Excellence
By Moses Lutaaya
Kampala, April 10, 2026 — College Registrars and Senior IT Technicians at Makerere University have undergone intensive, hands-on training in the Research Information Management System (RIMS), in a move aimed at strengthening graduate training, improving completion rates, and advancing the university’s research agenda.
The training, held on Friday at the CFT 2 Building, Lecture Room 4.1 Computer Lab, brought together key custodians of academic records to gain practical skills in using the system that university leadership says will transform graduate education management.
In his opening remarks, the Director of Graduate Training, Julius Kikooma, underscored the strategic importance of RIMS, linking it directly to the university’s long-standing challenges in tracking graduate students and supporting research progression.
“Graduate training is central to the research mission of this university,” Prof. Kikooma told participants. “Yet for years, we have struggled to answer simple but critical questions, where exactly are our graduate students in their academic journey, and why are many not completing on time?”
He pointed out that the issue has consistently drawn concern from top university leadership, including Council, particularly as Makerere rolls out its new five-year strategic plan. “One of the key priorities identified is improving graduate completion rates,” he said. “But we cannot improve what we cannot measure.”
Prof. Kikooma explained that unlike undergraduate programmes, graduate studies are largely research-driven and therefore more complex to monitor. “The research component of graduate programmes has not been adequately captured in any system,” he noted. “That is why it has been difficult to track progress, supervise effectively, and provide accurate reports.”
Positioning RIMS as a transformative solution, he emphasized its role in bridging this gap. “RIMS is not just a system, it is the backbone of how we are going to support graduate students and research going forward,” he said. “With it, we can track every stage, from concept development to proposal, to thesis completion in real time.”
He stressed that the system will enhance both efficiency and accountability across the university. “This is the tool that will enable us to confidently assure Council and management that we know the status of every graduate student at any given time,” he said.
However, Prof. Kikooma made it clear that the success of RIMS depends heavily on the commitment of college registrars. “You are the custodians of graduate records. You are central to this process,” he said. “If RIMS succeeds, it will be because of your efforts. If it fails, it will be because you did not play your part.”
He revealed that registrars will now form part of the steering committees overseeing the full implementation of RIMS across university units. “You are not just users of this system, you are its drivers at the college level,” he emphasized.
Calling for seriousness and full participation, Prof. Kikooma set clear expectations for the training. “No one should leave this room without knowing how to use RIMS in their daily work,” he said. “You must understand the kind of data required, the information on students, supervisors, and every stage of the research process.”
He added that incomplete data has already limited the system’s effectiveness in some units. “Graduate students are already on the system, but some of the critical information is missing,” he noted. “That gap must be closed by you.”
In his technical presentation, Juma Katongole, the Manager Information Systems, highlighted the limitations of existing systems and how RIMS is designed to address them.
“We can only produce accurate statistics for students on coursework,” he said. “But we cannot tell how many graduate students are at proposal level, concept level, or thesis level. That is a major gap.”
He explained that RIMS will provide comprehensive, real-time tracking of graduate students throughout their academic journey. “This system will enable us to produce accurate reports of which student is where,” Katongole said. “It will help us identify delays and take action.”
On the issue of prolonged completion times, he added, “With reliable data, we can see where students are getting stuck and introduce administrative or strategic measures to address those bottlenecks.”
Describing the system as a turning point, Katongole noted, “We are moving towards having valid statistical information at our fingertips, which is critical for a research-led institution.”
From the administrative perspective, Eleanor Nandutu, Senior Assistant Registrar from MISR, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a practical solution to long-standing inefficiencies.
“RIMS will ease the tracking process and help us know exactly where each student is and how long they take at each stage,” she said. “It will also help us understand where the challenges are and how to better support students.”
She emphasized that the system will improve completion rates by identifying bottlenecks early. “We shall be able to see where we are stuck and take corrective action in time,” she noted.
Addressing concerns about possible conflict of interest between supervisors and students, Nandutu clarified that the system is designed to enhance transparency, not create tension. “This is about ensuring that processes are followed and that students succeed,” she said. “It brings everyone, administrators, supervisors, and coordinators onto one platform.”
She added that the system will even improve interaction between students and supervisors. “It will make follow-ups easier and ensure timely feedback, which is critical for research progress,” she said.
As the university intensifies efforts to strengthen its research output and graduate training, the hands-on RIMS training marks a significant step toward a more efficient, transparent, and data-driven academic environment, one that leaders believe will finally address the long-standing challenge of delayed graduate completion.
Pupils, parents and authorities at Bwera Primary School in Kabale District were filled with joy as the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, in partnership with dfcu Bank, handed over a four-classroom block to the school.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, one of the parents, Saison Tumukuratire, expressed gratitude for the support.
“We thank God for this gesture. Our children can now attend classes without interruptions caused by rain. Previously, whenever it rained, lessons would stop. The old building was on the verge of collapsing, had no windows, and the floor was dusty,” she said.
Uganda has made significant progress in expanding access to education through Universal Primary Education (UPE); bringing millions of children into school. However, in hard-to-reach communities, physical access and the quality of learning environments continue to shape how effectively that opportunity translates into consistent attendance and meaningful outcomes.
Bwera Primary School, a government-aided institution located in the remote and hard to reach village in Kahama Sub-County, has an enrollment of 275 pupils. For decades, the school has faced significant challenges related to access and infrastructure.
With no road access and limited infrastructure, the school has long struggled to provide a conducive environment for learning. Efforts to improve facilities have often been constrained by high transportation costs and logistical barriers; with some contractors previously declining to take on construction work due to the difficulty of accessing the site.
“The school structures are not sufficient for our learners, and we do not have a single staff house. We are deeply grateful to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and dfcu Bank for coming to our rescue after the school’s plight was highlighted in the media,” Edson Bikorwomuhangi, the headteacher, said.
On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University and dfcu Bank officially handed over the new facilities. These include a four-classroom block equipped with 60 bench desks, a four-stance modern pit latrine, and a 10,000-litre rainwater harvesting system.
The new infrastructure is expected to significantly improve the learning environment and support better educational outcomes for the pupils.
Since 2014, Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University and alumni have contributed to communities across Uganda by constructing classrooms, providing clean water and supporting vulnerable communities.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Nelson Dumba, the Chairperson of the Scholars giveback Committee, noted that the event was not about commissioning structures, it is about celebrating impact, partnership and the power of giving back.
“As scholars we are deeply aware that we are beneficiaries of opportunity, and because we have been given a chance, we carry a responsibility to extend that opportunity to others and contribute meaningfully to the communities that shape us,” Mr. Dumba, said.
Mr. Dumba called upon the Bwera community to take ownership, protect the property, and ensure that it continues to serve generations to come.
“To the pupils of Bwera Primary, this investment is for you, use it well, take care of it and believe in your dreams. You are capable of achieving better outcomes,” Mr. Ddumba, said.
One of the central pillar of the Scholars Program is community service and giveback, grounded in the belief that leadership is best demonstrated through service to others.The Scholars Program is not only about access to education, it is about transformation and impact.
In her speech, Ms. Jolly Okumu, the Program Operation Lead of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, noted that through mentorship and structured engagement, Mastercard Foundation Scholars are encouraged to initiate community-driven projects, improve livelihoods, promote inclusion and foster sustainable development.
“Today is not just about handing over infrastructure, it is a celebration of partnership, shared purpose and our collective commitment to improving learning environment for young people. It reflects our belief that when institutions and communities come together, we can create lasting impact and open up greater possibilities for the next generation,” Ms Okumu, said.
Ms Okumu extended special appreciation to the Jane Goodall Institute for providing a 10,000 litre water tank and dfcu Bank for a financial contribution of UGX 20Million used to renovate two classrooms and purchase desks.
“As we officially hand over this project, we hope these improved facilities will provide a safe environment and a space conducive for learning. Our Scholars are not just beneficiaries, they are committed to building a stronger and more inclusive communities,” Ms. Okumu, noted.
Speaking on behalf of dfcu Bank, Ms Helena Mayanja, the Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, noted that the giveback project reflects the Bank’s commitment to elevate education, financial literacy and health in intended communities.
“The journey to the school itself reflects the realities these children face every day. Improving infrastructure in such communities is essential to ensuring that access to education translates into real learning outcomes,” she said.
dfcu Bank has various partnerships and programs targeting vulnerable and hard to reach communities which are aimed at elevating financial literacy, health and education.
Kabale District Education Officer, Mr. Moses Tumwijukye Bwengye welcomed the development, noting that previous efforts to upgrade the school had failed due to inaccessibility.
“We thank our partners for renovating this classroom, with these projects, results are going to change because now the learning is conducive. Before contractors were unable to take on the work because of the terrain. Partnerships like this are important in unlocking development in hard-to-reach communities and improving education outcomes,” Mr. Tumwijukye, said.
Parents speak out
Evidence Tumwebaza, who has a child in Primary One noted that the infrastructures are going to help them improve the school’s sanitation.
“The tank is big and I am happy that my child will now study in a conducive environment and will have clean water for drinking,” Tumwebaza, said.
Ann Turyasima, a parent and former pupil said that the project is going to help pupils to stop carrying water from a long distance.
“These pupils have been moving from down the valley to go and fetch water for the school but now everything is here. They can now concentrate in school.”
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