Agriculture & Environment
CAES Mak-RIF Project Skills Students in Agro-Processing
Introduction
On 4th August 2023, Makerere University School of Food Technology, Nutrition, and Bioengineering held a graduation ceremony for the 2nd cohort of trainees under the project; “Empowerment of the Agro-Processing Industry to meet the Quantity and Quality Standards for the Local and Export Market; a Programme for Enhancing the Practical Skills of Students in Makerere University”. The multi-year project is being funded by the Government of Uganda through Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF). In the second cohort, the project trained 20 agro-processors and 31 students. 40 agro-processors and 35 students were trained in the first cohort.
Objectives of the project
- To train processors on how to develop processes ensuring standards leading to certification
- To train processors on how to develop processes to meet market demands
- To optimize product quality for 20 Agro-processing MSME’s
- To develop and operationalize interventions for required processing protocols
- Train students to train Agro-processors in the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)
- To enhance students’ skills in critical thinking, problem solving, leadership, business, teamwork, creativity and communication
Presentation by the Project PI
During the ceremony, the Project PI, also Dean, School of Food Technology, Nutrition, and Bioengineering, Dr. Julia Kigozi presented an overview of the project, highlighting the activities and achievements registered. She commended the graduands for their commitment and implored them to use the skills acquired to support the implementation of the objectives of the project.
Impact of the project
This second phase of the project had 31 students/research assistants from five different Degree programmes including; BSc. Agricultural Engineering, BSc. Food Science and Technology, BSc. Human Nutrition, BSc. Water and Irrigation Engineering, and BSc. Bioprocessing Engineering. The students were trained in different modules in February 2023 which included Operations in the Agro-processing Industry, Product Optimization, Application of GMPs and Hygienic Processing, Quality Control and Waste Management, Infrastructure development to meet quality and capacity, Marketing Strategy, Leadership and Tax Literacy. They were then sent to the field to visit the project Agro-processors to conduct trainings in agro-processing, gaps identification at the facilities, design of interventions (application and mentoring) as well as monitoring and evaluation. This introduced students to different forms of learning like experiential learning (learning by doing), Project-based learning (involves students designing, developing, and constructing hands-on solutions to a problem) and problem-based learning (student-centered approach in which students learn about a subject by working in groups to solve an open-ended problem).
Students’ presentations
A few students namely Kabuye Desire, Nambaziira Juliet and Nakikoola Berna presented their experiences and lessons learnt, basing on Experiential, Project-based and Problem-based learning from the facilities they visited and the EAPI project at large. Students’ responsibilities in the project included a baseline survey of the different Agro-processing facilities to find out whether they meet the UNBS standards of processing. With the gaps identified, they developed interventions and workplans for the processors which were communicated on their follow-up visits. Other students and lecturers were addressed to a panel of questions on how the Empowerment of the Agro-Processing Industry (EAPI) project has influenced those three different modes of learning.
Remarks by the Principal CAES
In her remarks, the Principal CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga appreciated the project PI, Dr. Julia Kigozi for the tremendous work she is doing for the School. She commended the project team for their efforts in transforming the teaching and learning experience of the lecturers and students respectively. She appealed to the project team to include a module of mindset change and to expand the training to cover the whole of CAES.
Remarks by the DVCAA
In his remarks delivered by the Principal, CAES, Prof. Umar Kakumba, Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA) appreciated the project team for the commendable work they were doing to improve the agro-processing industry in the country. “This kind of training is timely. If we are to send out marketable graduates, we need to transform the way we teach in order to enhance the practical skills of our students,” he noted.
Certificate awarding ceremony
Each of the trainees was awarded a certificate of attendance in recognition of their participation in the programme.
Refurbished gate to boost the institute’s aesthetics, security, accessibility, and sustainability
Makerere University College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) has completed the refurbishment of the main gate at the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK). The renovation was carried out by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), under the supervision of their academic mentors.
According to the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, the revamped gate now truly reflects the spirit of Makerere University and will significantly enhance the institute’s visual appeal, security, accessibility, and sustainability. The refurbished gate was officially commissioned by the Vice Chancellor, represented by the First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, alongside CAES staff, students, and partners.
About MUARIK
Established in 1953, MUARIK serves as a hub for numerous research projects and facilities within CAES. It houses centres such as the Makerere University Regional Centre for Crop Improvement (MaRCCI), the Makerere University Centre for Soybean Improvement and Development (MakCSID), the Continuing Agricultural Education Centre (CAEC), the Centre of Excellence in Waste Management, and the Consortium for Enhancing University Responsiveness to Agribusiness Development (CURAD).
Additionally, MUARIK hosts KOICA-funded projects, including a modern layers production unit and a climate-controlled greenhouse for vegetable production. These units operate independently but collectively contribute to MUARIK’s dynamic research environment.
MUARIK also houses research units for the School of Agricultural Sciences (SAS) such as the Biotechnology and Tissue Culture Laboratories, experimental fields, Horticulture and Livestock Units, and the black soldier fly project. It accommodates training and research facilities for the Schools of Food Technology, Nutrition, Bioengineering, and the School of Forestry, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences. It also hosts hostels for both local and international students who stay at the Institute to gain practical experience in production and research under typical farming conditions.
Enterprises and Research at MUARIK
Enterprises at MUARIK include approximately 100 acres of pastures, a dairy farm, feed mill, silage production, poultry unit, piggery unit, banana and coffee plantations, maize and soybean crops, horticulture, goat farming, and the recently revived rabbit unit featuring four breeds: New Zealand White, Chinchilla, California White, and Flemish Giant.
Current research initiatives focus on edible insects and worms as alternative livestock feeds, agroforestry, horticulture, and value addition in food processing. MUARIK maintains a strong partnership with the Uganda Flowers Exporters Association (UFEA), collaborating on the commercial testing of new flower species to diversify Uganda’s flower exports beyond traditional rose bouquets. Collaborative efforts also include identifying native natural enemies to control Chrysanthemum pests, working with UFEA, Wageningen University, breeders, and the National Agricultural Research Organization.
As part of Uganda’s National Agricultural Research System (NARS), MUARIK prioritizes research in biotechnology, tissue culture, plant breeding, improved farming methods, agro-processing, value addition, and marketing.
Tour to Assess the Capacity and Condition of Facilities at MUARIK
As part of the commissioning ceremony, the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, led visitors on a comprehensive tour of the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute, Kabanyolo (MUARIK). The purpose of the tour was to provide first-hand insight into the institute’s current infrastructure, operational capacity, and ongoing challenges.
During the visit, Prof. Nabanoga highlighted both the strengths and limitations of the institute. While the tour showcased MUARIK’s potential as a hub for agricultural research and innovation, it also brought to light a number of critical issues affecting its functionality. Chief among these is the persistent challenge of land encroachment, which continues to threaten the integrity and sustainability of the institute’s operations.
In her remarks, Prof. Nabanoga commended Dr. Cyrus Ongom, the outgoing Director of MUARIK, for his unwavering dedication to safeguarding the institution’s land. She acknowledged his resolute efforts in the face of persistent threats and numerous challenges, emphasizing the vital role he played in preserving MUARIK’s integrity. “This year, we aim to further reposition MUARIK as a leading centre for agricultural innovation and production in the region,”said Prof. Nabanoga. “Our focus will be on strengthening research, fostering partnerships with stakeholders, and enhancing the capacity of our infrastructure to support sustainable and impactful agricultural practices.”
The Principal expressed gratitude to all who have supported the transformation journey of CAES. “As we celebrate our achievements today, we take this moment to recognize and honour everyone who has been part of our transformation journey,” the Principal said. “We are especially grateful to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe for his unwavering support, which has been instrumental in driving the College forward.”
Delivering his remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, commended the CAES for its remarkable achievements in training and research.
“From my assessment, CAES has consistently excelled across its core mandates – training, research, production, and community outreach. The College has played a crucial role in advancing the agricultural sector through innovative research, high-quality academic programmes, and meaningful community engagement. These efforts have made a significant contribution to Uganda’s national development goals and the transformation of its agricultural landscape. Given its demonstrated success and strategic relevance, CAES is highly deserving of enhanced investment and funding to further expand its impact,” he stated.
CAES Annual Awards and Staff Recognition Ceremony
The CAES Annual Awards and Staff Recognition Ceremony celebrated the outstanding achievements of dedicated teaching, administrative, and support staff. During this special event, several members of staff were acknowledged and honoured for their exceptional performance, commitment, and contributions to the College’s success.
Commenting on the significance of the awards, Prof. Buyinza praised the initiative, emphasizing that such recognition serves as a powerful motivator. He highlighted how acknowledging excellence not only boosts morale but also inspires continued dedication and fosters a culture of high performance.
Click on the link below to access the list of staff recognized for exceptional performance.
More pictures from the event
It is with profound pride, reflection, and vision that I present the 2024 Annual Report for the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at Makerere University. This report is more than a summary of the milestones in 2024 – it is a powerful testament to what is possible when a dedicated academic community rallies behind a common purpose. It encapsulates the collective effort, ingenuity, and resilience of our faculty, researchers, administrators, technical teams, students, alumni, and partners – each of whom has contributed meaningfully to advancing our threefold mandate: Teaching and Learning, Research and Innovation, and Knowledge and Technology Transfer Partnerships.
Throughout 2024, we deepened our resolve to nurture not only competent graduates, but also purpose-driven leaders capable of shaping the future of agriculture, environmental stewardship, and food systems across Uganda, Africa, and beyond. Through transformative curricula, cutting-edge facilities, and a strong commitment to STEM-based experiential learning, CAES continues to empower a new generation of innovators – technically sound, ethically grounded, and globally aware.
Our academic programs continued to evolve in both quality and relevance. We offered 48 academic programs—including 15 undergraduate, 19 masters, 11 PhD, and 3 postgraduate diploma programs. A total of 2,339 students were enrolled in 2024, with 60% of undergraduate learning delivered through hands-on, field-based instruction. At the 74th graduation ceremony, 638 students graduated, including 20 PhDs, 104 masters, and 511 bachelor’s degree recipients. Notably, we celebrated 25 first-class graduates who represent academic excellence across disciplines.
Through over 100 partnerships, we translated knowledge into impact. Initiatives like CURAD, FTBIC, and MaRCCI empowered communities in agribusiness, food safety, and climate resilience.
I thank our entire community for your commitment and collaboration. Together, we are not only advancing knowledge but shaping sustainable futures across Uganda and beyond.
Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga
Principal, CAES
Follow the link below to access the full report;
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nNsX8Cohq7whbC9zkd3j4DpBRa7kygDP/view
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