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Call for Proposals: Mapping Research & Doctoral Programmes in HEIs in Eastern Africa

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1. Background

Africa is a continent of opportunity, with the youngest population on the planet. While ‘talent is equally distributed opportunity is not’. In sub-Saharan Africa, the gross enrolment ratio in higher education reached only 9% in 2020 (compared to 40% worldwide), and the gender parity index showed that 70 women for every 100 men participated in higher education.

Regarding knowledge production, Africa invests 0.6-0.9% of GDP on research and development, compared to a world average of 1.93%, and generates less than 1% of the world’s research. Doctoral education has received lower priority in Africa, given the attention to the undergraduate level: an unbalance that plays against the significant interdependence between these levels. In addition, relevant studies (British Council and DAAD, 2018) have highlighted low or inconsistent PhD capacity despite the significant expansion in master’s level graduations – an issue related to funding capacity and lack of mechanisms to assess the quality and socio-economic relevance of PhD outputs, among others. Moreover, Africa ’faces a huge digital skills gap, which is diluting economic opportunities and development. Some 230 million jobs across the continent will require some level of digital skills by 2030’ (World Bank, 2020).

As in other regions, academic mobility is increasing in the continent and thus recognition systems need to be enhanced or established. However, robust quality assurance mechanisms and agencies, which are key to upholding academic standards, do not exist in some countries. To engage firmly in a sustainable development path, Africa needs more inventors, innovators, scientists, technologists, academics, and researchers. For this to happen, Africa requires adequately resourced and academically excellent universities and higher technical institutions that train, research and innovate; companies that are entrepreneurial and investing in research and development; incubators that can nurture new technologies and partnerships and venture capital networks that can sponsor these initiatives.

Equally important is the elaboration of sound policies and strategies for strengthening higher education systems, based on reliable data and information. According to an initial needs assessment and mapping conducted by UNESCO, there have been many efforts to increase production and dissemination of data on tertiary education in and for Africa. Yet, internationally comparable information remains limited and data collection across Africa is weak. Hence, there is a great need to improve the quality, coverage, and frequency of data collection and strengthen capacities for data analysis to adequately inform education policy discussions and decisions.

Elaborated as one of the five flagship programmes of UNESCO Operational Strategy for Priority Africa 2022-2029), the overall objective of the Campus Africa Flagship Programme is to build integrated, inclusive, and quality tertiary education systems and institutions, for the development of inclusive and equitable societies in the Continent. The Programme is implemented along three interrelated main lines of action (MLAs) through which UNESCO jointly with its partners will strengthen and enhance equity and quality of higher education systems, connect Africa’s tertiary education systems, institutions, researchers, and communities, and promote mobility and employability of higher education students.

Campus Africa activities will promote all SDGs and more specifically SDG 4, 8 and 9. In particular, synergies are to be sought with United Nations agencies, the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks (UNSDCF) and development partners’ initiatives supporting SDG 4.3 – by 2030 ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable quality technical, vocational, and tertiary education, including university.

2. Objectives of the Mapping Research and Doctoral Programmes in HEI in Eastern Africa

To achieve the Campus Africa objective, UNESCO is working with its networks and partners to pool expertise and resources and ensure synergies in action and sustainable impact. To this end, UNESCO is collaborating with the Makerere University within the framework of the Campus Africa flagship with the objective to propose relevant operational initiatives, which address challenges of access and quality of higher education in Africa, with a focus on Eastern Africa. More specifically, work shall be conducted in relation to Campus Africa Main Line of Action (MLA) 1 on improving the research capacity of African tertiary institutions and increasing research outcomes with effective networking through Workstream 1.1 which focuses on enhancing inter-university collaboration in Africa by facilitating the development of collaborative research and doctoral programmes that prioritize interdisciplinary work and focus on SDGs-related issues; and through Workstream 1.2 which focuses on support and strengthening of mechanisms that facilitate the exchange of students and professors and investment in joint research programmes and publication, and provides for access to research grants, scholarships and fellowships that give due attention to girls and women applicants, as well as to applicants from marginalised population groups.

This assignment therefore is to map and assess opportunities and challenges for enhancing research and doctoral programmes in higher education in Eastern Africa. The mapping report should analyze capacity gaps and highlight existing successful efforts, including inter-university collaboration and joint research and doctoral programmes, statistics on fellowships/scholarships, various funding mechanisms, and other initiatives across Africa as relevant.

The mapping study is to have an inclusive approach, with gender, country, and regional balance where relevant – with a focus on Eastern Africa. It should target perspectives from stakeholders of higher education in Eastern Africa, in particular, from governments (ministries responsible for higher and tertiary education), higher education institutions, development partners, quality assurance council/agencies, NGOs, funding agencies, private sector associations and employers, and relevant institutions, including UNITWIN/UNESCO Chairs, as well as students and graduates, as related to the content of the work.

3. Scope of the study

The scope of study will include the following:

  1. Conduct a mapping study to generate information on existing efforts and enablers, opportunities, and challenges to enhance research and doctoral programmes in higher education in Africa, with a focus on Eastern Africa
  2. Integrate perspectives of key stakeholders of higher education across Africa, particularly in Eastern Africa, to complement the mapping study
  3. Develop recommendations to enhance the research capacity of African tertiary institutions and increase research outcomes with effective networking, upholding the principles of inclusiveness, relevance and gender equality

The study team/individual is expected to propose the best approaches for undertaking this mapping study. The proposal should detail the study objectives and methodology proposed and all the costs associated with conducting the study.

4. Key Deliverables

The key deliverables will include:

  1. Inception report: detailing the methodology including the main research methods, the sampling framework, proposed sources of data, and procedures for data collection and analysis. The proposed research tools will be discussed by the UNESCO Campus Africa/CFIT III Makerere Team before study commences.
  2. Revised first Draft Final Report, incorporating suggestions and recommendations from a reference group. A second round of revision may be required before the final version of the Final Report can be produced.
  3. A final report (one electronic copy in PDF Format and one in WORD format) with key findings and recommendations.
  4. An electronic copy of all data collection tools and the mapping study data set
  5. A final presentation of the overall findings to stakeholders for validation

5. Duration of the study

The final report of the analytical study is due by Wednesday 11 October 2023. The duty station is Makerere University as it is expected that capacity for such studies is available.

6. Qualifications and Expertise

  • Post-graduate degree and demonstrable experience in conducting mapping studies – particularly in the context of research and graduate training
  • Good knowledge of Eastern Africa’s higher education sector and relevant institutional frameworks
  • Ability to interpret results and provide practical recommendations
  • A good understanding of English language with excellent communication and report writing skills

7. How to Apply

Study teams or individuals interested in this opportunity should provide the following:

  • A technical proposal with detailed response to these terms of reference, with specific focus on the scope of work, methodology to be used and draft list of key stakeholders to be engaged
  • Initial high level work plan based on an outlined methodology and indication of availability to undertake the tasks within the specified timeframe
  • A financial proposal including a detailed budget breakdown for the different tasks in each specified work package

Applications should be sent via email to cedat.soe@mak.ac.ug by Monday 28 August 2023.

Mak Editor

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Press Statement: Clarification on Issues Raised During the Ongoing Conversations on the X Platform

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Front View of the reconstructed Main Building, Makerere University. Date Taken 8th November 2024. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Thursday, 06 February 2025

Makerere University Management has been keenly following the concerns raised on the X platform. As a public institution, we value constructive criticism and feedback as these present an opportunity to clarify issues and, in the process, enhance service delivery. However, the University Management has noticed several instances of disinformation and outright blackmail towards various University officers and would like to offer the following clarifications:

  1. Allegations of Solicitation of a Bribe by a Member of the University Council

The University Management received an audio recording in which a staff member is allegedly heard soliciting a bribe from colleagues to assist them in accessing higher positions during the recently concluded salary harmonization process. While the staff member in question is an elected representative of the support staff to the governing University Council, he is neither a member of the Appointments Board nor wields influence on its decisions.

Given the severity of the alleged offence and the position of the staff member, the University initiated immediate investigations and interdicted the staff member on Thursday 30th January 2025 to facilitate the investigation process. The staff member will be given an opportunity to present his case through a fair hearing before the Appointments Board.

  1. Appointment of Substantive Deputy Vice Chancellors

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Finance and Administration (DVC F&A) position became vacant after a legal challenge overturned the initial appointment and halted subsequent searches. After the appellant withdrew the cases, the University Council initiated a new search through the Senate. However, a contestant later petitioned, citing non-compliance with guidelines. The University Council referred the matter back to the Senate, which reviewed it on 12th December 2024. The revised report will be considered at the University Council meeting on 11th February 2025.

  1. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVC AA)

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVC AA) position became vacant on 30th November 2023 upon the end of the incumbent’s tenure. While the University Council was conducting an appraisal for possible reappointment, the DVC AA was appointed in an acting capacity. However, before the process concluded, a member of staff challenged the appraisal in court, making the matter sub judice. Consequently, the University Council deferred further consideration until the court resolves the case.

  1. Promotion Requirements for Associate Professors and Professors.

Academic staff promotions at Makerere University follow the Human Resources Manual (HRM), last amended in 2022. Policy changes are initiated by the Senate and take effect upon Council approval. Promotions are based on the criteria in place at the time, as recorded by the Senate and Council. All Associate Professors and Professors undergo rigorous assessment, including mandatory internal and external vetting by internationally recognized subject experts.

  1. Retirement of Associate Professors and Professors Post-60 Years

Makerere University mandates retirement at 60 in accordance with Ugandan law. To retain highly skilled talent, the University Council introduced a post-retirement contract policy under the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA). The Appointments Board grants or renews these contracts based on outstanding performance in teaching, research, grants, and mentorship, subject to available vacancies and wage funds. Before approval, the University Management assesses the impact on staff promotions, ensuring no disadvantage to qualifying staff within a particular Department.

  1. Membership and Leadership of the University Council and its Committees

The University Council membership is constituted in accordance with Section 38(1) of the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA), which outlines the criteria for appointing representatives from various constituencies, including the Government, staff, students, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), persons with disabilities, and Council appointees.

The constituents are responsible for managing the selection process for their respective representatives. University Council members serve four-year terms, which can be renewed by the respective constituents in accordance with Section 38(3) of the UOTIA. It is important to note that no Council member, current or former, has ever served beyond the period specified by law.

The University Council elects its Chairperson and Vice Chairperson in accordance with Section 39 of the UOTIA. Additionally, the Council establishes the Appointments Board and all its Committees in compliance with Section 43 of the UOTIA and Section 38 of the Council Charter.

  1. Recent Policy Reforms at the University

The University Council has implemented key reforms to enhance service delivery and staff accountability. These include a biometric staff attendance system and the digitalization of student services such as application, admission, registration, fee payment, exam records, and graduation. These measures have improved lecture attendance, expedited transcript issuance, and strengthened student support. University Management and the Appointments Board actively monitor staff performance to reward outstanding performance and ensure compliance.

  1. Disciplinary Processes and Actions Involving Some Staff Members

Makerere University enforces disciplinary policies in line with the Human Resources Manual, Public Service Standing Orders, and Ugandan law. Staff who violate these policies face sanctions such as warnings, suspensions, interdictions, and investigations, all conducted with due process before an Appointments Board hearing. Recently, two senior staff members—one a Council member and the other a School Dean were interdicted over allegations of corruption and non-performance. Their interdiction ensures independent investigations without undue influence.

  1. State of the University Infrastructure

With substantial support from the Government, Makerere University has made significant strides in enhancing its critical infrastructure for teaching, research, and student residences/welfare, alongside initiating new infrastructure projects.

Following the phased approach to renovate student halls of residence, the University Management is pleased to report that the renovation of Lumumba Hall was completed in 2024, while that of Mary Stuart Hall is ongoing. On completion of the renovation of Mary Stuart Hall, the Contractors will proceed to Complex Hall.

The University has constructed two (2) new buildings for the School of Law and School of Dentistry. The Main Building was reconstructed and commissioned by His Excellency the President on 2nd October 2024.

In addition, two (2) structures are currently under construction namely the School of Public Health and the vertical extension of the School of Women and Gender Studies. In addition to Government support, we continue to receive support from our partners for infrastructure enhancement.

We Build for the Future

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Prof. Nawangwe urges young people to take up leadership in innovation for the transformation of Africa

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Participants at the Scholars Council meeting pose for a group photo with Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) in the Freedom Square. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By the Program Communication Team

On Sunday, February 2, 2025, Makerere University hosted the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation.

During the event, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe urged young people to prepare for leadership roles in innovation, especially starting with their communities, if they wish to see the positive transformation they desire in Africa.

 “I urge you to connect and network with your peers and discuss how you can form inter-university teams to innovate solutions that will address the development challenges in our communities for the transformation of the African continent.” Prof. Nawangwe remarked.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor, addressing the young people at the event. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor, addressing the young people at the event.

Prof. Nawangwe applauded the Mastercard Foundation for its partnership with Makerere University and Uganda in general, which has uplifting effects on many young people.

Makerere University and Uganda have made remarkable strides in providing Higher Education to Young People, thanks to the generous support of the Mastercard Foundation, which has contributed significantly to educating the next generation of African leaders. Through valuable initiatives and partnerships, such as the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Makerere University is poised to continue educating young individuals who will significantly impact Uganda’s and Africa’s economic growth.” Prof. Nawangwe noted.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nawangwe, further urged young people to seize the opportunities the Mastercard Foundation and other like-minded development partners presented to improve their lives and communities.

Prof. Nawangwe, flanked by Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, and officials from Mastercard Foundation listening attentively to presentations by young people. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe, flanked by Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, and officials from Mastercard Foundation listening attentively to presentations by young people.

“The Mastercard Foundation has given you the platform and opportunity to be leaders and beacons of change. Embrace this responsibility with courage. Let the core values of the Scholars Program—humility, listening, kindness and respect, co-creation, and impact—guide your actions,” Prof. Nawangwe emphasized.

While speaking at the same event, the Program Director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, enumerated high-level achievements the Program had accomplished for the last decade at Makerere University. She pointed out that in terms of scholarship enrolment, the Program had recruited 1,032 Scholars, of which 76% were Females, 7% were Internationals, 4% were Refugees, and about 1% were Youth with Disabilities.

Prof. Namaalwa further pointed out other post-graduation achievements, including a 94% completion rate of the total number of Scholars enrolled in the Scholars Program. She pointed out that between 2018 and 2025, the Program had graduated 964 Scholars, of which 37% were employed, mainly in the private sector.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director, addressing the audience. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director, addressing the audience.

Prof. Namaalwa revealed that beyond the Scholars Program, the Mastercard Foundation had put other initiatives supporting the university in numerous ways. She pointed out other initiatives such as the e-learning initiative, a COVID-19 Response measure to ensure continuity of Teaching and Learning at Makerere University and the Climate Resilience and Sustainability Collaborative: Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Ghana, the University of Cape Town, and the University of Cambridge, is implementing a new initiative that addresses one of the world’s most significant challenges in recent times—climate change.

Prof. Namaalwa revealed that the Research Collaborative would provide opportunities for MSc and PhD scholarships to African students and encourage young people to enrol as graduate students starting in the academic year 2025/2026.

The event was punctuated with fireside chats, during which young people had an opportunity to discuss a number of topical issues related to entrepreneurship and Transformative leadership. Thereafter, the visiting students were taken on a guided tour around Makerere University.

Mr. Enoch Muwanguzi one of the young entrepreneurs exhibiting a shoe brush he had made during a fire-side chat. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Enoch Muwanguzi one of the young entrepreneurs exhibiting a shoe brush he had made during a fire-side chat.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council comprises student leaders from partner Universities. Each Partner University has one Council Representative.  They represent the needs of Scholars and work with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program teams at each institution, the Mastercard Foundation, and Alumni.

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CAES, CHS & CoVAB Receive Buses to Enhance Fieldwork, Outreaches

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Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, The three buses parked in the Freedom Square against the backdrop of the Main Building on 3rd February 2025. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

On Monday 3rd February 2025, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe handed over three (3) university buses to the respective leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB).

The new buses mark a significant improvement in mobility and learning for Makerere University students and staff, furthering the institution’s commitment to practical education and community service.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe speaks to the Media at the handover. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe speaks to the Media at the handover.

Speaking at the handover ceremony held at the University’s Freedom Square, Prof. Nawangwe highlighted the significance of the new buses in enhancing teaching and learning. “These buses will play a crucial role in improving students’ practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach,” he said.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) hands over the keys to CoVAB Principal-Prof. Frank N. Mwiine (Left) as Dr. Claire Mugasa (Right) witnesses. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) hands over the keys to CoVAB Principal-Prof. Frank N. Mwiine (Left) as Dr. Claire Mugasa (Right) witnesses.

Prof. Nawangwe expressed gratitude to the Parliament and the Government of Uganda for providing the resources for the new buses, emphasizing their importance in replacing the old fleet, which frequently breaks down. The new 2023 model buses, with a 67-seater capacity, were secured at a cost of UGX 626million each and are expected to save the university significant maintenance costs and improve the learning experience for students.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (3rd L) with the CAES Team from Left to Right: Prof. Donald Kugonza, Principal-Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, Dep. Principal-Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Dr. Revocatus Twinomuhangi, Dr. Lawrence Orikiriza, Ms. Suzan Kyamulabi and Dr. Mildred Ochwo-Ssemakula. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (3rd L) with the CAES Team from Left to Right: Prof. Donald Kugonza, Principal-Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, Dep. Principal-Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Dr. Revocatus Twinomuhangi, Dr. Lawrence Orikiriza, Ms. Suzan Kyamulabi and Dr. Mildred Ochwo-Ssemakula.

Principals from the respective colleges expressed their appreciation for the new buses. Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, Principal of CoVAB, emphasized the importance of the buses for practical training at locations such as Lake Mburo National Park. Associate Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, Principal of CAES, and Associate Prof. Bruce Kirenga, Principal of CHS, highlighted the buses’ role in facilitating community engagement and outreach.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) hands over the keys to CHS Principal-Prof. Bruce Kirenga (Left). Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) hands over the keys to CHS Principal-Prof. Bruce Kirenga (Left).

He explained that the decision to purchase Isuzu buses instead of those manufactured by Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) a Makerere University partner, was based on prior engagement with the former, as well as the need to utilize the allocated funds promptly within the Financial Year, which couldn’t be accomplished at KMC due to their high demand.

Harriet Musinguzi

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