Humanities & Social Sciences
Mak Department of Journalism & Communication Engages with Pioneer Class to Enhance Course Progress
In a bid to foster academic excellence and ensure the smooth progression of the Master of Arts in Journalism and Communication (MAJM) and Master of Strategic and Corporate Communication (MASC) programs, Makerere University‘s Department of Journalism and Communication held a meeting with the pioneer class of these courses. The gathering on Friday June 23, 2023 in Lecture Room 4 aimed to discuss the students’ course progress and provide motivation for timely completion.
The meeting followed the successful conclusion of the first academic year for the 2022/2023 cohort. Students together with their esteemed lecturers gathered for a productive and cordial engagement, focusing on streamlining the upcoming academic year and emphasizing the importance of meeting course objectives and deadlines.
During the engagement, Dr. Aisha Nakiwala, a Senior Lecturer and the Head of Department, expressed satisfaction in the students’ progress and emphasized their unique position as pioneers of these programs. She urged the students to recommit themselves to the shared goal of completing the programs within the stipulated two-year timeframe.
“By the end of the two-year period, you will have undergone a profound transformation. Our hope and promise are that everyone will achieve remarkable personal growth within this timeframe. We understand that unforeseen challenges may have emerged along the way. It is important to note that criticism is commonplace in academia, and we are used to navigating such circumstances. We genuinely care about your well-being and wish you all the best. We strive to enhance and improve the program continuously, so we highly appreciate any feedback you have regarding areas that need improvement. Your input will be carefully considered as we work towards refining the program for your benefit and for future participants,” said Dr. Nakiwala.
Dr. Nakiwala, commended the remarkable achievement of the two new programs introduced at Makerere University. She cites the Department received an impressive more than double expected applications but admitted only 40 individuals to each program, maintaining a selective acceptance rate of 50% in the 2023/2024 academic year application.
According to Dr. Nakiwala, this rigorous selection process ensured that the highest caliber of students was chosen to participate. Further stressing the importance of ensuring the pioneer students to stay focused and complete the program by June 30th, 2024, ensuring a smooth transition for incoming students. She acknowledged that challenges may arise along the way but assured students that criticism is common in academia, and the department is well-prepared to navigate such situations.
“Our primary objective is to see each one of you successfully complete this program. Therefore, I urge you to reaffirm your commitment to finishing within the designated two-year timeframe. It means that your dissertation should have been submitted to the graduate school for supervision and evaluation. Looking ahead, the upcoming year may appear less demanding, but it will require additional effort and meticulous attention to detail,” Dr. Nakiwala said.
On her part, Dr. Marjorie Kyomuhendo-Niyitegeka, a Lecturer and Programmes Coordinator in the Department of Journalism and Communication, emphasized the significance of time management and avoiding procrastination. She highlighted the extensive course content and the need for consistent progress, emphasizing that even short periods, such as a week or a month, hold immense importance in achieving academic success. She expressed eagerness on behalf of the faculty to work closely with the students as future supervisors, guiding them throughout their academic journey.
“Congratulations on successfully completing your first year! It was a rewarding experience for me to teach all of you, and I want you to know that we highly appreciate you as the pioneering group of this program. You serve as our ambassadors in the world out there. I urge you to carry forward the same enthusiasm and energy into the upcoming semester,” said Dr. Kyomuhendo-Niyitegeka.
For Dr. Mbaine, a lecturer in Media Law, Policy, and Regulation, students need to be proactive in addressing challenges and complete their studies on time. He highlighted the quality of education they have received and shared an anecdote about a previous student who faced difficulties due to a delayed graduation.
“There is always a fear of lecturers by students and what lecturers are able to do to you as a student. It’s like the lecturers are carrying weapons of mass destruction that at a slightest provocation they can unleash. As a graduate student, you should be able to manage your relationship with your lectures. Being careful about the things you do and say, you have to be very careful about that. There is even what is called graduate politics. You have to be creative in a way you handle yourself. If you do the minimum, people will also help you up to the minimum. Please go out and be worthy ambassadors of the program,” said Dr. Mbaine.
Professor Nassanga Goretti Linda, a Professor at the Journalism and Communication Department and the first Head of the Department, congratulated the students on completing their first year and emphasized the importance of planning and professionally executing their research phase for the upcoming second year.
“I implore you to take your research seriously and address the feedback provided by your supervisors in time. Your reports will undergo scrutiny by an external examiner, whose evaluation holds significant weight. However, I urge you not to view this as your sole objective. Imagine if your child, a loved one, or someone else reads your thesis years from now. Do something that will make you proud in future,” said Professor Nassanga.
Dr. Gerald Walulya, the Masters Programmes Coordinator, encouraged the students to seek help and support from the faculty whenever needed. “Align your expectations with the results and match them with your input. When it comes to writing assignments, let’s focus on the fundamentals. Start by reading and then answer assignments. Many of us are readily available for consultations,” he said.
Mr. Sulaiman Kakaire, a journalist turned lawyer and PhD student at Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR), reminded both students and lecturers to manage their expectations and egos, as graduate politics can become intense, especially at the PhD level.
“It requires humility to acknowledge that you are being taught by a colleague whom you have known for a while. No lecturer intends to engage in conflict with a student. Personally, I welcomed the feedback I received and never took it personally. I embraced the remedial classes when some of you invited me as they offered us an opportunity to learn and improve,” Mr. Kakaire said.
Ms. Sarah Kagingo, CEO of Soft Power Communications and Vice Chairlady of Private Sector Foundation Uganda, on behalf of the pioneer students expressed gratitude for the transformative journey they had embarked on and highlighted their enhanced critical thinking skills. She also emphasized the importance of considering multiple perspectives and authentic lived experiences to become effective ambassadors for the department.
“It’s said that PR is investment in the bank of goodwill but it takes two to tangle and we often fall short. Several heads of communication claim their organisations are responsive yet they do not pick their phone calls. It’s through authentic lived experiences that we will truly represent the Department as Ambassadors. Several of us have been unwell and we thank you for rendering us support. There have been times I have comforted colleagues and put up a face of strength yet I’m breaking internally – I am a human being. I’m grateful for my colleagues, the discussions were both rigorous and fun. The next semester will be seamless, in shaa Allah,” Ms. Kagingo.
Pastor Mark Arnold Odeke, one of the pioneer students, called for collaboration and mutual respect between Lecturers and Students. He stressed the importance of supporting the growth of the profession through progressive efforts.
“I want to apologize on behalf of the class. Whatever might have happened throughout this year was solely for academic purposes and was not intended as part of the learning process. As we move into the next phase, let us strive for a more productive and positive learning environment, said Odeke.
The meeting concluded with a celebratory cake-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the end of the academic year and serving as a fresh commitment by both students and lecturers to pursue their courses diligently.
In August 2022, Makerere University‘s Department of Journalism and Communication launched two-year MASC and MAJM programs. The two programs are designed to meet the needs of the corporate and public sectors, which are increasingly demanding effective communication strategies and areas of journalism and multimedia.
Makerere University‘s MASC program offers students a comprehensive education in behavioral, social, and development communication, preparing them for technological advancements and equipping them with expertise in public relations, research, and ethical communication. With a focus on aligning with industry trends and market demands, the program empowers students to excel in the dynamic communication field and make meaningful contributions to societal well-being in the 21st century.
MAJM program provides advanced training in journalism and multimedia and emphasize theory, practice, and the societal contexts of media, while also exploring new media trends and digital technology. Graduates of the MAJM program will be equipped to meet market expectations, excel in the evolving professional landscape, and contribute to the development of journalism and media sectors. They will also possess critical engagement skills, research capabilities, and the ability to embrace technological advancements.
As the pioneer group of these programs, the students play a crucial role in shaping their future and are encouraged to make the most of their education while being mindful of the challenges that may arise along the way.
The writer is also a pioneer student of MA Strategic and Corporate Communication and Communications Officer, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH).
Photography by Ainebyoona Jill
The Makerere University fraternity is mourning the loss of a dedicated and hardworking academic, Dr. Brian Semujju. At the time of his passing, Dr. Semujju was serving as a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Journalism and Communication, School of Languages, Literature and Communication, where he had worked for eight years. He was a prolific scholar with more than 20 publications to his name, the most recent of which was published in February 2025.
In a condolence message from the Vice Chancellor delivered by Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, the University extended its heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family. Prof. Ireeta noted that Dr. Semujju was widely known for his enthusiasm and commitment to academic research. Drawing from scripture, he offered comfort to mourners with a quote from Psalms 34:14: “The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” He also extended condolences to Dr. Semujju’s students, fellow scholars, and colleagues.
On behalf of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the Principal, Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala and the Deputy Principal, Dr. Eric Awich Ochen, shared heartfelt condolences. The College Leadership acknowledged Dr. Semujju’s immense contributions and the deep void his death left in the college following his passing on 3rd August 2025. Equally commended was Dr. Semujju’s remarkable journey from Lecturer to Senior Lecturer—a clear testament to his passion and commitment to research. Dr. Semujju’s dedication to his work was described as extraordinary, and Dr. Awich Ochen confirmed that he was due for promotion to Associate Professor at the time of his death, a reflection of his unwavering pursuit of academic excellence.
Prof. Gorretti Nassanga delivered a message on behalf of the Head of the Department, Dr. Aisha Nakiwala, describing Dr. Semujju as a man who left behind a strong legacy of academic excellence. She traced his academic journey at Makerere University, beginning as a Master’s student in 2010, graduating in 2012, and completing his PhD in 2017—the same year he joined the Department as a Lecturer. She highlighted his significant research contributions, including publications in high-impact international journals and involvement in diverse research projects covering community media, gender and media, environmental and climate change communication, and the use of mobile phones in journalism practice. Prof. Nassanga praised his critical mind and eagerness to explore new frontiers of knowledge, adding: “Apart from his work at the Department of Journalism and Communication, he took interest in other areas like music, he composed several songs including some on how to tackle climate change.”
Prof. James Kiwanuka-Tondo, Dean at the School of Journalism, Media and Communication at Uganda Christian University, and Prof. Monica Chibita both spoke about Dr. Semujju’s insatiable curiosity and commitment to his work. Prof. Chibita noted his exceptional sense of duty, as evidenced by his latest publication in February despite battling illness. She emphasized the importance of preserving his legacy: “He leaves a gap in many people’s hearts but Brian also leaves a legacy of academic excellence. As many of his mentees who are here, we all have a duty to keep this legacy alive.”
Dr. Robert Kakuru, Chairperson of the Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA), reflected on the collective loss felt by the academic fraternity: “As the academic fraternity we have lost a hardworking man. We have lost a man that was destined to achieve much.” He expressed appreciation to the University Management, especially the Vice Chancellor, for their support during this difficult time. Dr. Kakuru also used the occasion to promote the MUASA Social Support Fund, encouraging both new membership and mutual support among existing members.
Representing the Fulbright Scholars where Dr. Semujju served as President of the Alumni Association, Dr. Saul Daniel Ddumba also expressed his sympathies: “He accepted to be our Fulbright President, which was another job on top of what he already had,” he said, praising Dr. Semujju’s enthusiastic spirit.
Mr. Baker Batte, one of Dr. Semujju’s earliest Master’s students, shared a memory that reflected his high standards and intolerance for mediocrity: “I think I gave him approximately 15 drafts for him to accept that my dissertation was good for submission.”
A family representative, Dr. Semujju’s brother, spoke of his strong work ethic and obsession with quality, recounting his frequent reminder to the family: “Every time he would tell us that we cannot teach if we are not doing research.” He expressed gratitude to the Department of Journalism and Communication and the University for their support, particularly through financial assistance.
The funeral service held on 5th August 2025 at St. Francis Chapel and was presided over by the Chaplain, Rev. Canon Dr. Lydia Kitayimbwa. In her sermon, the Chaplain urged the bereaved family to turn to God for comfort, describing Him as “not distant, but… the God of Comfort.” She read from 2 Corinthians 1:3–7, reminding the congregation of God’s enduring presence in times of suffering: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction… Our hope for you is unshaken, for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort,” she preached.
The event was graced by several dignitaries from the Media, including the CEO of Vision Group, Mr. Don Wanyama, and the Head of Bukedde TV, Mr. Richard Kayiira.
-
General6 days agoAdmission Lists for Postgraduate Programmes 2025/26
-
General1 week agoMakerere University Repositions Doctoral Training to Build Africa-Centered Scholarship
-
General1 week agoAcademic Year 2025/2026 at Makerere Begins With Freshers’ Orientation
-
Health2 weeks agoCall for Apllication: The James M. Ntambi Postdoctoral Fellowship
-
Health7 days agoMakerere University College of Health Sciences marks Centenary with expansion of Super-Specialized healthcare Training