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
Humanities & Social Sciences
Symposium on Pan-Africanism and Reparatory Justice Ignites Debate on African Unity and Decolonisation of Systems
By Charles Iga and Ritah Namisango
On 21st May 2026, candid discussions and reflections on the dignity and survival of the African people took centre stage as Pan-Africanists, youths, global diaspora leaders, esteemed royals, and scholars, convened at Makerere University, for the Inter-University Symposium on Pan-Africanism and Reparatory Justice.
Held ahead of the Africa Day Celebrations on 25th May 2026, the Symposium with over 23 participating Universities re-awakened the spirit of Pan-Africanism, African Unity, and the need to defend the dignity and the future of the African People.
The different speakers, panelists and participants rallied African nations to demand for reparation from those who dehumised the African people through slaverly, torture, conolialism, and any form of injustice.
“Pan-Africanism is about survival, dignity and power. It’s the understanding that Africa’s problems cannot be solved in isolation. It has a huge diaspora. It has to be holistic. Division is our greatest weakness. Unity is our strongest weapon,” said Chief Eric Phillips, the Keynote Speaker at the Inter-University African Symposium hosted by Makerere University’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences, in partnership with the Pan Afican Fraternity in Uganda, CARICOM, and AIDO International Network.
This is global citizenry in action
Opening the symposium on behalf of Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Henry Alinaitwe described the gathering as a historic convergence of global African identity.
“As we gather in the Makerere University MainHall, we are deeply honoured to host distinguished delegates from across Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and the wider global African diaspora,” Prof. Alinaitwe said.
He added, it is a meeting of minds, cultures, generations, and visions committed to shaping Africa’s collective future, emphasizing that African liberation must extend beyond political independence into economic and intellectual sovereignty.
“This symposium is happening at a critical moment in global history when Africa and people of African descent are redefining their place in a multipolar world,” he said.
Makerere re-affirms role as Pan-African Intellectual Hub
Re-affirming Makerere University as a critical centre for intellectual liberation and African-centred knowledge production, Prof. Alinaitwe noted that the struggle for African liberation continues through economic sovereignty, reparatory justice, cultural dignity, and decolonisation of knowledge systems.
He tipped the students that the future of Pan-Africanism will be shaped by their ideas, courage, and innovation.
Humanities hold the key to transformation
Citing the theme of the Symposium, Pan-African Intellectualism: The Urgency to Defend the Dignity and Future of the African People, the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Makerere University, Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, stressed the central role of African scholarship in social transformation.
“Our presence here reflects the urgency of defending the dignity and future of African people through knowledge,” Prof. Nkabala said.
She added, “Humanities and Social Sciences are vital for social transformation because without those disciplines, there can never be societal change. The humanities and social sciences hold the key to understanding society and reshaping it.”
The issue of reparations is central
The Deputy Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Eric Awich Ochen, reiterated the African voices on the need for reparation. “In December 2025, I represented Makerere University at the African Diaspora Summit in Accra, Ghana. The President of the Republic of Ghana, and the President of the Republic of Togo, spoke very strongly about the issue of reparation justice,” he said.
“When we talk about reparation. Africa suffered from slavery and a lot of injustices during that period. Those responsible for that kind of injustice to us, may need to find away of making some compensation to Africa,” said Prof. Awich Ochen.
Inter-University Symposium kicks off the Africa Week celebrations
In a very special way, Dr Sarah Hasaba, the Chairperson of the Organizing Committee for the Pan-African Liberation Week (21st to 25th May 2026) welcomed the participants who had travelled from the different parts of the world and within Uganda, to be part of the 5th Inter-University Symposium.
“As we celebrate the 63rd Africa Liberation day, we are honoured to start with the Inter-University symposium at Makerere University. As we engage in dialogue today, let us exchange ideas and build strategic partnerships. May this symposium be an opportunity for practical solutions, strong collaboration, and renewed commitment to the Pan-African vision of unity and transformation,” remarked Dr. Hasaba.
The Youth are an integral pillar of the Pan-African agenda
Her Highness Dr Queen Grace Eganda, was delighted to return to Makerere University, where her academic and leadership potential was nurtured in the 1990s. During that time, she was privileged to have served as the Chairlady of Mary Stuart Hall, and happy to return to Makerere University, in the capacity of a global leader, and General Secretary of AIDO Network International.
Emphasizing the importance of the symposium, she said: “This is a significant moment because we are looking at a bridge between the past and the present. As we reflect on the journey of Pan-Africanism, we are looking at our historical realities, present situations, and exploring how do we move forward progressively. We are working with the youth and the academia to promote the Pan-Africanism agenda.”
Underscoring the role of the youth, the Queen articulated: “ Any space where there’s no youth, any organization or planning where there is no youth is a dying moment. We are therefore encouraged to see many brilliant young people participating in the Symposium, we are passing the baton, the future is bright, and where we end, we know that the fire will keep burning.”
Building partnerships and promoting collaboration
With nostalgia, the President of AIDO Network International, and Chairman of the Global Africa Diaspora Kingdom, His Highness Papa, Dr Paul Jones Eganda, was pleased to return to Makerere University.
“In the 1990s, I was at this great University. I stayed in Lumumba Hall. Today, I come back, not as a student, but as a King and global leader with over 2.5 million followers globally,” he said amidst applause from the audience.
He informed the audience that the delegation consisted of 70 royals and key personalities who travelled to Uganda to participate in the activities of the Africa Liberation Week. “Some of them have remained at Speke Resort Munyonyo because the Head of State, H.E President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is launching the Uganda Tourism Expo. Some of us have made it to Makerere University, to participate in the Inter-University symposium,” he remarked.
His Highness Papa Dr Eganda said the AIDO Network International and the Inter-University Symposium, present to the African people, a platform to strengthen partnerships and collaboration, undertake joint research, and advocate for scholarships.
“We are here to listen and learn from each other, and build partnerships. We would like to promote inter-university collaborations, research opportunities, and scholarships,” he stated.
In a very special way, he recognized Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye and Lieutenant Gen. Amanda Magambo, for their commitment to the Pan-Africanism agenda.
Keynote Speech on Pan-Africanism and Reparation
A sense of quiet reflection and re-awakening was evident as the Keynote Speaker, Chief Eric Phillips, passionately shared his views about Pan-Africanism and reparation.
Highlighting the roots of Pan-Africanism, he said: “Before borders were drawn, before Africa was divided in Berlin, before the world told us who we were, Africans were already connected by culture, by trade, by identity and by civilization. But then came slavery, colonization, and the forced scattering of millions of Africans across the world.”
The keynote speaker articulated that from that pain, Pan-Africanism was born-starting in the hearts of enslaved Africans who refused to forget who they were.
“Today, the chains may look different, economic dependency, mental colonization. But the mission of Pan-Africanism remains the same. A united Africa is not a dream. It’s a necessity,” he emphasized.
Geopolitics of Reparatory Justice
The Keynote Speaker informed the participants that the geopolitics of reparatory justice is not often spoken about, yet it impacts people of Africans daily.
“European nations do not want to pay financial reparations. Financial reparations have been paid to the Jewish nation, the Japanese, and to many other people across the world. But when it comes to reparations for people of African descent, there seems to be a resistance, a denial, as if they still consider us as not being human,” he wondered.
Panel on Pan-Africanism and Intellectualism
Moderated by Callistus Mubangizi, the panel consisted of the following discussants: Dr. George Okiror-Makerere University, Department of Political Science and Public Administration, the Keynote Speaker-Chief Eric Phillips, Prof.Eria Hisali-Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences, Associate Professor Robert Ojiambo- Department of History, Archaeology, and Heritage at Kyambogo University, and Dr. Shadat Semakula from Canada.
The discourse indicated that Intellectualism still continues to be the basis upon which Pan-Africanism lives. The panel tackled the relevance of Pan-African intellectualism as the framework for addressing structural inequalities and neocolonialism, as well as, the need for a unified African-led development.
Reparatory Justice is about Dignity, Not Only Money
Throughout the symposium, scholars and activists repeatedly emphasised that reparatory justice must go beyond financial compensation. “Reparations is not just about money. It is about restoring dignity, identity, truth, education, land, psychology, and institutions.”
It was crystal clear that reparatory justice must begin with us. “We cannot ask for reparations while abandoning our languages, our knowledge systems, and our identity. Reparatory justice must begin internally.”
We Lost Kingdoms, Artifacts, and Memory
Dr Davidson Amooti, representing Bunyoro cultural and administrative structures, gave a deeply historical account of colonial-era losses. “On behalf of Bunyoro Kingdom, we lost 2.5 million human beings during colonial wars,” he said.
Additionally, “We also lost more than 3,000 artifacts. The British government could not allow me to access museums and libraries. I had to go to court to obtain permission.”
Dr Amooti called for structured documentation and legal action. “We must mobilise every citizen in our cultural institutions for development. We cannot keep begging. We must research, document, and sign agreements.”
Education is not neutral
Dr Zaid Sekito, Lecturer in the Department of History, Archaeology & Heritage Studies at Makerere University, reframed reparatory justice as an educational and intellectual process.
“Reparatory justice is a pedagogical practice. We must understand what was destroyed, how it was destroyed, and how to rebuild it,” he said.
He highlighted that education systems continue to shape consciousness. “The classroom is not neutral. Even today’s curriculum is not neutral.”
Dr Sekito urged students to take leadership in transformation. “You have the power to influence institutional change. Youth movements have always been at the centre of African transformation.”
We must transform education and mindset
Speakers consistently called for curriculum reform and African-centred education. Some of the proposed reforms included: Introducing African-centred history from primary school; funding African research; supporting African languages; and building exchange programs with the diaspora.
A critical analysis indicated that colonial education was designed to produce obedience, not freedom. “Africans must now design education for liberation.”
Reparations requires Organisation, Not Rhetoric
Tackling this pertinent issue, the panelists and participants agreed as follows:
- Pan-Africanism must move beyond conferences into action. Any plan is dependent upon discipline and execution.
- Reparations will not be achieved by governments alone. It requires organised people, informed people, and committed youth.
- CARICOM’s reparations agenda did not happen by chance. It happened because people organised, studied, and persisted.
You are the Next Movement
Dr Hilary Brown urged young Africans to take ownership of the Pan-African struggle. “To the young brother who asked, ‘What next?’ — you are the next,” she said. “The movement needs scholars, lawyers, journalists, musicians, filmmakers, and entrepreneurs. Everybody has a role.”
Therefore, “I request you to form reading circles, join Pan-African organisations, document your histories, engage leaders, and build networks across borders.”
Unity between Africa and its diaspora
The convening emphasised unity between Africa and its diaspora. “Africa and her diaspora are one people—different histories, but one destiny. Pan-Africanism is not an event. It is a lifelong commitment.”
The symposium that included cultural performances, and a session on promoting a “drug free world” concluded with renewed calls for youth engagement, research collaboration, and institutional reform across Africa and the diaspora. The symposium also marked the official launch of Pan-African Week activities leading to Africa Day 2026, reinforcing calls for research-driven advocacy, continental unity, and structured reparatory justice frameworks.
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