Natural Sciences
CoNAS Moves to Popularise the Bachelor of Science Programme, Improve Performance in the Subject of Biology
Overview
Basic biological research offered by the School of Biosciences at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), more so at the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences (ZEFS) requires continuous recruitment of trainees to ensure its sustainability at Makerere University. Over the years, there has been a decline in the number of students admitted to offer biological courses at the School of Biosciences due to poor performance, but also the negative perception about the courses. These courses are often termed as “FLAT” during career guidance at high school, an indication that even the career teachers do not have a clear understanding of the Bachelor of Science degree programme. The perception that the programme is flat with no job prospects makes it unpopular, yet basic sciences are a pivot for several other applied sciences that significantly contribute to the wellbeing of humans and the economy of the country. For example, studies in basic Zoology, Botany, Chemistry and Biochemistry are a basis for effective understanding of applied courses such as plant breeding, vector control, wildlife management, plant pollination, environmental conservation, veterinary science, and human health management, among others. The decline in uptake of these programmes is a big challenge as it is likely to affect the learning of applied sciences.
The reduced recruitment of students into basic sciences has long term implications of missing on key scientists to support research in various scientific fields, yet the graduates of Bachelor of Science degree have numerous opportunities to undertake research and academic work in several national and international research institutions, academic institutions, and the private sector. The use of the term “FLAT” by career masters reflects the lack of clear understanding of the vast opportunities that this course exposes the candidates to, both in public and private sectors.
Plans to popularise the Bachelor of Science programme
To increase uptake, CoNAS has embarked on a programme to popularize the courses offered at the School of Biosciences among high school science teachers and learners by deciphering the myths associated with the Bachelor of Science degree. Broadly, the action aims at arousing the interest and improve academic performance among high school students in biology, and ultimately increase the students applying for the courses offered at the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences. Specifically, the programme aims to popularize research by early career researchers in the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences in selected schools with A-level biology students, as well as biology and career teachers. The Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences will engage selected schools to share progressive research, experiences and lessons learnt to cultivate/arouse interest among the biological students in high schools. During the engagement sessions, the team will discuss possibilities to improve performance in biology and inform the next course of action.
The programme is coordinated by Dr Godfrey Kawooya Kubiriza, a Lecturer in the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences and a postdoc fellow for CECAP. It is part of the activities supported under his project on “Popularizing early career research for increased visibility of the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences”.
CoNAS engagement with Secondary School Biology teachers
On 26th July 2023, the CoNAS through the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences held a seminar for Secondary School teachers from selected schools around the country. The one-day seminar was funded by the Carnegie Corporation of New York, through the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training at Makerere University. It was intended to bridge the gap between the School of Biosciences, Makerere University and high school biology teachers in Uganda. It was also aimed at sensitising the teachers about the programmes at CoNAS, the importance of the Bachelor of Science programme and the opportunities it presents. The Seminar held at ZEFS was graced by the Commissioner in charge of Crop Inspection and Certification at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), Mr. Paul Mwambu; the Principal of CoNAS, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, and senior academics from the School of Biosciences, Makerere University.
During the engagement, academics from the School of Biosciences sensitized the teachers on the programmes in their departments, highlighting the different course units, research activities, career prospects and opportunities, and emphasizing the importance of the BSc programme.
The Dean, School of Biosciences, also Patron of the Biology Society of Uganda (BioSU) delivered a presentation on the past, present and future dynamics of biology, stressing its relevance in driving the world systems in the next century. He also briefed participants on the BioSU and its intended purpose to improve performance in the subject of biology that has been declining over the years. A research conducted in the performance of Biology at the UACE sitting of 2018 whose results were released in February 2019, indicated that a total of 13,061 candidates sat for Biology countrywide, and of these only 1 candidate scored an “A”. That year, only up to 38% of the candidates scored at least an “E” leaving almost 80% failed (score O or F). In the next year’s sitting of 2019, only 44 candidates countrywide scored “A” in Biology. This trend was found quite repeated several times before 2018 and has not improved to-date post COVID-19. To solve this problem, Makerere University through the School of Biosciences at CoNAS in partnership with the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) under the supervision of the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs has embarked on a programme to identify the root causes of poor performance, by undertaking a detailed and carefully planned analysis of the qualifications, competence, and availability of Biology teachers and technicians at A’ level; the scope- breadth and depth of Biology curriculum at A’ level; how topics are segregated or not segregated in different UNEB past papers of Biology at A’ level in comparison to other A’ level subjects; the state of laboratory and field infrastructure for teaching Biology at A’ level; and attitudes of learners/students towards Biology at A’ level.
During his presentation, Prof. Tugume appealed to government to support and promote skilling programmes, noting that there are many people who have not had an opportunity to acquire University education but are doing wonders because of the skills attained from vocational training.
At the same meeting, Dr Kubiriza presented the research activities at the College, specifically in the Department of ZEFS, whereas Mr. Paul Mwambu, Commissioner in charge of Crop Inspection and Certification at MAAIF narrated how his study of the Bachelor of Science programme had exposed him enormous employment opportunities.
During the engagement, the secondary school teachers shared the challenges they experience and brainstormed on strategies that can be used to demystify the negativity about the Bachelor of Science programme. They also shared ideas on how to improve performance in subject of biology, emphasizing the need to review the syllabus and to retool the teachers. “The syllabus is so wide and this could be one of the lead causes of poor performance in the subject,” Prof. Tugume noted.
In his remarks, the Principal of CoNAS, Prof. Winston T. Ireeta emphasized the importance of career guidance and sharing of resources to improve performance. He pledged the College support towards secondary school career guidance programmes and retooling of teachers.
Natural Sciences
Change of Guard: Prof. Michael Owor Hands Over Office of Dean, School of Physical Sciences to Prof. David Ssevviiri
Prof. Michael Owor has officially handed over the office of Dean, School of Physical Sciences to Prof. David Ssevviiri. Prof. Owor has served as Dean since 1st February 2022. Following his appointment by the University Council, Prof. Ssevviiri will serve as Dean for the next four years, effective 6th May 2026.
Handover Ceremony
Held on 28th May 2026 in the office of the Dean, the handover ceremony was overseen by Makerere University Chief of Internal Audit, Mr. Patrick Akonyet. It was attended by the Deputy Principal of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Prof. Juma Kasozi; the Head of the Department of Chemistry, Dr Emmanuel Tebandeke; the representative of the Head of the Department of Physics, Dr. Nicholas Kwarikunda; the representative of the Head of the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, Dr Denis Mutebi; the College Human Resource Officer, Ms. Kevin Nabiryo Mikwano; and the College and School Registrars.
Remarks from the College leadership
On behalf of the College leadership, Prof. Juma Kasozi commended Prof. Owor for his dedicated service and leadership throughout his tenure and congratulated Prof. Ssevviiri upon his appointment, wishing him success in his new role.
Achievements and remarks by the outgoing Dean
During his tenure, Prof. Owor chaired the School Academic Board and several key committees, including the Establishment and Appointments Committee, the Examination Malpractices Committee, and the Irregularities and Appeals Committee. He also presided over MSc viva voce examinations and PhD public defenses. Under his leadership, he ensured the timely submission of results, eliminated academic backlogs, and strengthened the coordination of graduate examinations, while also supporting the development and review of academic programmes. He has also served as the Patron of the CoNAS Students’ Guild.
In his remarks, Prof. Owor expressed gratitude to the University Council and Management for the opportunity accorded to him to serve as Dean. He also thanked the College leadership and staff for their support and reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the University.
“I want to thank the University Management through the Chief Human Resource Officer for appointing me as dean, School of Physical Sciences for the last four years. I pledge my total support to the incoming Dean of the School. I also pledge to continue offering my services to the University through my mother Department, Geology and Petroleum Studies.”
Remarks from the Directorate of Human Resources
Representing the Directorate of Human Resources (DHR), Ms. Kevin Nabiryo Mikwano commended Prof. Owor for his leadership and contributions during his tenure.
“You have steered the school through curriculum reforms, staff development, student growth, and your commitment to both staff and students has not gone unnoticed. The foundation you have laid will continue to support the school’s progress. Thank you for your partnership with the Directorate of Human Resources in ensuring staff welfare, recruitment, and performance processes were handled with integrity and care.”
She also congratulated Prof. Ssevviiri on his appointment, expressing confidence in his leadership and vision. She reaffirmed the Directorate’s readiness to support him in team building, talent management, and fostering a positive working environment for academic, administrative, and support staff. She further encouraged staff to maintain strong collaboration with the incoming Dean, emphasizing: “The success of the school depends on how well we work together. At the DHR, our commitment is to ensure that policies, processes, and people management practices support the school’s academic mission. May this handover mark the beginning of another strong chapter for the School of Physical Sciences.”
Guidance on the officially recognized Government handover procedure
The Chief of Internal Audit, Mr. Patrick Akonyet, commended both the outgoing and incoming Deans and emphasized adherence to the Government of Uganda handover and taking of office procedures. He noted that strict compliance with established guidelines is essential for accountability, transparency, institutional continuity, and smooth transition of responsibilities.
Remarks by the incoming Dean
In his remarks, Prof. David Ssevviiri thanked Prof. Owor for his service and appreciated the University Management for his appointment. He emphasized the importance of the School of Physical Sciences in advancing science and innovation. “We have a responsibility of nurturing our students into innovative problem solvers. The future of Science depends on how well we prepare our students. Building on the successes of my predecessors, and working collaboratively through our Departments, we can further contribute to solving real world challenges.
Profile of Prof. David Ssevviiri
Prof. David Ssevviiri is a Ugandan mathematician and academic leader serving as an Associate Professor of Mathematics at Makerere University, College of Natural Sciences. He is widely recognized for his work in pure mathematics, particularly in algebra, module theory, ring theory, algebraic geometry, and local cohomology.
He holds a Bachelor of Science with Education in Mathematics and Chemistry from Makerere University, as well as a Master of Science in Mathematics from the same institution. He also obtained an additional MSc and a PhD in Mathematics from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (now Nelson Mandela University), South Africa. His doctoral research, A Contribution to the Theory of Prime Modules, focused on advanced module theory and algebra.
Prof. Ssevviiri joined Makerere University in 2011 as an Assistant Lecturer and rose to the rank of Associate Professor in 2022. He previously served as Head of the Department of Mathematics from 2015 to 2020, where he contributed to strengthening teaching, research collaboration, and postgraduate training.
His research interests include primeness and nilpotency in ring and module theory, torsion theory, radical theory, homological algebra, and the interaction between algebra and algebraic geometry. He has authored and co-authored several peer-reviewed publications in international journals, contributing significantly to advancements in abstract algebra.
Beyond teaching and research, he has contributed to mathematics development in East Africa through student supervision, external examining, and coordination of regional academic programs. He has also participated in initiatives aimed at promoting mathematics education and encouraging young people to pursue careers in science and technology.
Pictorial of the ceremony: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1pmWX5H46UHbFkTT-I4OIJwFbXIwuO6e1?usp=sharing
A team of researchers from Makerere University has presented findings of a study on the persistent poor performance in Biology in national examinations to senior officials at the Ministry of Education and Sports.
The findings were shared during a dissemination meeting attended by the Ministry’s top management, led by Permanent Secretary Kedrace Turyagenda.
The study, commissioned by the Ministry in 2023, was conducted by researchers from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and the College of Education and External Studies (CEES). It was spearheaded by Prof. Fredrick Muyodi as Principal Investigator, alongside Assoc. Prof. Josephine Esaete (Co-Principal Investigator) and Prof. Arthur Tugume among others.
Titled “Examining the Factors Accounting for Poor Academic Performance in Biology in Uganda’s National Examinations,” the study covered all regions of the country, engaging more than 5,200 respondents across 100 districts through surveys, interviews, and observations.
Key findings
The research identified limited field-based learning and poor digital access as the most critical and consistent challenges affecting both Ordinary and Advanced Level students across all regions.
At Advanced Level, the lack of project-based learning was also cited as a significant constraint. Learners reported limited engagement with Biology beyond the classroom, a factor that weakens conceptual understanding and application in examinations.
The study further highlighted the role of community attitudes and perceptions in shaping student performance in the subject.
Recommendations
The researchers recommended increased investment in field-based learning, including field trips and project work, as well as expansion of digital infrastructure to improve access to learning resources.
Other proposed measures include strengthening school laboratory facilities, enhancing teacher capacity through continuous professional development, promoting student engagement through academic clubs and mentorship programmes, and fostering stronger family and community support for science education.
Next steps
The research team is seeking funding to pilot targeted interventions, particularly in regions most affected by the challenges identified, and to develop a monitoring and evaluation framework to guide implementation.
The findings are expected to inform policy and interventions aimed at improving Biology performance and strengthening science education in Uganda.
By Dr. Alice Nabatanzi
At the Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology (PMB) in the College of Natural Sciences, we are moving beyond the classroom to bring science to life. We are proud to showcase our innovative work with the Biotechnology Class of 2026. Our Product Development Centre has transitioned from theoretical research to practical, market-ready innovations. By applying advanced scientific principles, our students are developing tangible solutions that address everyday needs in nutrition, health, and industry.
Below are the latest products developed by our talented innovators:
- Nutrition & Food Technology: Vitamin A-rich bread, banana vinegar, food syrups, and fortified bio-snacks.
- Clinical Hygiene: Perfumes, Deodorants, Antibacterial gels, herbal toothpaste, shaving cream, and herbal mouthwash.
- Natural Wellness: Natural formulas for gut health, pain relief, cough lozenges, and nasal decongestants.
- Advanced Cosmeceuticals: Turmeric SunGuard patches, skin serums, toners, and anti-dandruff shampoo.
- Home & Industrial Solutions: Shoe deodorizing sprays, surface cleaners, and scented hygiene products.
- Agri-Tech: Natural bioindicator kits designed to monitor and improve soil health.
Through these initiatives, PMB continues to lead the way in re-engineering science for the benefit of our community and the world.
Meet the Biotechnology Class of 2026. While everyone else is still stuck in textbooks writing about “how things might work,” we’re in the lab making sure they actually do. We’ve officially moved past the days of just talking about science and stepped into the era of real-world industry. From our Product Development Centre to the global market, we are setting a new standard for Biotechnology at CoNAS. We aren’t just graduating with degrees; we’re graduating with the future in our hands.
What’s Next: We’re Just Getting Started
This is only the beginning. We’re already working on the next wave of products, from eco-friendly bio-packaging and better probiotics to smart-crop tech that will change how we eat, heal, and live. We aren’t just waiting for the future to happen we’re in the lab building it right now.
Dr. Alice Nabatanzi is a Senior Lecturer of Phytomedicine and Nutraceuticals at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University
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