Computing & IS
Google invests US$1.5M in Mak Ocular: An AI Automated Mobile Microscopic Diagnosis of Malaria, Cancer & Tuberculosis
By Proscovia Nabatte
Makerere University under its Artificial Intelligence Lab has received a grant funding worth US$1,500,000 from Google to support its Ocular project that is undertaking research on usage of Artificial Intelligence to enhance the diagnosis process of Malaria, Tuberculosis and Cervical Cancer in Uganda. This grant is in addition to what Makerere University received from Google’s philanthropic arm in 2019 for development of AirQo, an air monitoring project that uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) and low-cost technologies to generate and quantify data on air pollution in the designated areas in Uganda.
The Ocular Project was officially launched on 13th September 2023, by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Communications Technology and National Guidance (MoICT & NG), Dr. Aminah Zawedde. The research is being undertaken by Makerere University College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) in collaboration with the Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH).
According the Project Principal Investigator Dr. Rose Nakasi, The Ocular Project aims at building a standardized point-of-care mobile microscopy for disease diagnosis with a specificity of up to 99%. The solution’s current focus is on malaria, tuberculosis and cervical cancer in Uganda.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Rose Nakasi noted that the project team benched on the rampant challenges faced by the laboratory experts while undertaking diagnosis procedures. “In our interaction with some experts from the health sector, we found out that it was indeed straining for health centres in Uganda to manage the escalating number of patients that seek for laboratory screening tests. In addition, the team noted that the country is also blessed with a few trained laboratory technicians to support the diagnosis process using the microscope,” she said.
“We therefore took advantage of the existing technologies such as the smartphone and the availability of at least a microscope in every health centre across the country to develop a 3D printable adaptor that was attached to an eye piece of the microscope. The 3D adapter was also slotted in the smartphone to capture images. With the capabilities of Artificial intelligence through computer vision, images can be processed and this directs the experts where the pathogens are,” she added.
According to Dr. Nakasi, this process shortens the diagnosis process making it more accurate, quicker and easier to diagnose health conditions and potentially reducing screening time by over 80%. With the new funding support from Google therefore, Dr. Nakasi said that the project will seamlessly expand to other conditions such sickle cell anaemia, intestinal parasites and be scaled up in different pilot hospitals in Uganda.
She also noted that the innovation will be beneficial to patients who require disease diagnosis using microscopy technology, especially in areas where the disease burden and patient load is too large to be handled by the available laboratory experts.
“We believe that our funders were touched by the wider strong community impact the research comes with and we hope that this research will improve the health sector of most of the endemic countries in Africa. I therefore thank Google for seeing the good in our research and for considering Makerere University and Uganda at large for this research project,” she said.
In her remarks, Dr. Aminah Zawedde expressed gladness to be back at Makerere University to launch the second phase of the Google grant funding since 2019.
“This makes me appreciate the goodness of God and the fact that Makerere University is doing amazing things. It is hard to tell how good home is until you leave and then make a return,” she said.
Dr. Zawedde, commended Makerere University for the grounds and foundation it has given to different generations that have stood tall to support the development process of this country in different capacities. “Everyone would like to support research that is impactful and speaking to our problems as the community. Given the zeal that Rose Nakasi had during her studies, there is need to celebrate her,” she said.
According to Dr. Aminah Zawedde, in August 2023, MoICT & NG launched the National Digital Transformational Road Map, a collaborative effort from all partners in Uganda that guides the country on what to focus on in the next five years when creating an enabling environment geared towards digital transformation. The Road Map is hinged on the Uganda Vision 2040 of transforming Uganda into a modern and prosperous country.
She also mentioned that the National Digital Transformation Roadmap premises on five pillars including; Digital Infrastructure and Connectivity, Cybersecurity, Data Protection and Privacy, Digital Skilling, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
“The Ocular we are launching toady is an innovation and with support, we can scale it up into a commercial product that can be used not only in Uganda but across the continent,” Dr. Zawedde said.
She thanked Dr. Rose Nakasi and the team for having been able to undertake an outstanding research that has been internationally recognized as worthy of a additional global funding from Google. She called upon other researchers to take their research and publication seriously and urged the University Management and Government of Uganda to continue providing support and an enabling environment for researchers to thrive.
In the same spirit the Vice Chairperson of the Education Service Commission Mrs. Elizabeth Gabona, recognized the dynamics that have equally set the pace for the country to both innovate and adapt. With reference to the outstanding work from Dr. Rose Nakasi, Mrs. Gabona noted that there is no doubt that both genders (female and male) are positively contributing to technological improvement in Uganda.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Tonny Oyana, the Principal of CoCIS thanked Google for believing and investing immensely in Makerere University research.
“This is impressive. The funds for research in key areas of human health, using low-cost technology for disease diagnosis is expected to significantly improve health outcomes in Africa. We are immensely proud of the Ocular team at Makerere AI Lab”, he said.
According Prof. Oyana, the human brain is often constrained and the ability to enhance our intelligence is very critical for survival. It is therefore on this note that CoCIS has gone ahead to tame this ability through artificial intelligence which is also known as usage of external cognition.
“Sometimes we need to celebrate where there is a win. At Makerere University we pride in our efforts to undertake rigorous research that shapes societies through impactful community work.” Said Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, the Makerere Academic Registrar.
Google.org’s AI for the Global Goals Impact Challenge is part of Google’s company-wide commitment to help accelerate progress towards the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Makerere University is one of 15 organizations receiving support through the $25 million philanthropy challenge for projects that use artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate progress towards these goals. Out of many submitted proposals, 15 were selected for funding. Importantly, all of the projects will be open-sourced, so that other organizations can build upon the work.
“Each of the 15 selected organizations share our vision for using AI to accelerate progress on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, and each organization brings their own expertise to help move the needle,” said James Manyika, Google’s SVP of Research, Technology and Society. “We are inspired by the possibilities they see for how AI can be harnessed to help people solve societal problems, and are excited about the collective impact they will have over the next three years.”
Highlighting the relevance of artificial intelligence, Assoc. Prof. Engineer Bainomugisha said that for the last ten years the Department of Computer Science at Makerere University decided to focus on artificial intelligence, data science and cyber security with major application areas such as health, agriculture, language, environment and finance.
“We believe that our work contributes directly to the realization of the digital transformation agenda of this country as we carefully balance the scientific rigor and society impact. We also strongly believe that technologies like AI have the huge potential to transform societies and improve efficiency,” he noted.
Computing & IS
Makerere University and SoonPay Sign Landmark MoU to Champion Blockchain Innovation and Financial Inclusion Across Africa
On Saturday 6th December 2025, Makerere University entered into a ground-breaking partnership with the U.S.-based fintech company SoonPay, marking a major breakthrough in Uganda’s push to integrate emerging technologies into research, innovations, higher education and national development.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Mr. Frantz Morency, Chief Executive Officer of SoonPay L.L.C, during the Makerere University Financial Innovation Day, a high-energy event that brought together over 800 students, faculty, industry partners, and technology leaders.
The MoU institutionalizes the collaboration of Makerere University through the Makerere University Technology and Innovation Centre and SoonPay LLC. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Dr. Cathy Ikiror Mbidde-Manager of Makerere University Technology and Innovation Centre and Ms. Vuyani Jones-Blockchain Infrastructure Manager.
Organized by the Makerere University Technology and Innovation Centre (MUTIC) in partnership with SoonPay, the event ran under the theme “Innovation and Financial Inclusion for a Secure Future.” It featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, live demonstrations, and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will usher in a new era of blockchain training, research, and innovation at Uganda’s premier university.
The event was supported by several partners, including the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), the Uganda Blockchain Association, the National Planning Authority (NPA), Prudential Uganda, and other technology and financial sector stakeholders.
A Strategic Partnership to Transform Africa’s Digital Landscape
The newly signed MoU between Makerere University and SoonPay is expected to unlock a broad set of opportunities for students and academic staff. These include blockchain education and certification, joint research projects, internships and apprenticeships, the development of new financial inclusion tools, and the integration of emerging technologies into existing academic programs.
SoonPay’s entry into Uganda is part of a larger vision to expand blockchain-driven solutions across Africa—a continent its executives say has historically been excluded from global technological revolutions.
Impressed by the overwhelming numbers of students who filled the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium to the brim, the Vice Chancellor, said: “Dear students, by choosing to stay on campus, on a Saturday, and after completing your examinations, you have demonstrated your willingness to learn and embrace the blockchain technology as well as emerging technologies in general.”
Stating that blockchain technology is the future for Africa, the Vice Chancellor challenged the students to take charge of Africa’s digital transformation.
“You are the people to emancipate Africa from marginalization,” he declared. “What will liberate our continent is not politics—we have done too much of that. It is education, research, innovation, and technology.”
Prof. Nawangwe delivered a sweeping historical reflection, tracing Africa’s technological setbacks to the destruction of its civilization over several centuries.
“For 400 years, Africans were taken away as slaves. For another 200 years before that, our lands, knowledge systems, and technologies were disrupted,” he said. “This represents around 600 years of destruction and marginalization of African civilization.”
He urged students not to miss the opportunity that modern technologies such as blockchain and artificial intelligence present.
“We are lucky to be living in an era where Africa is free,” the Vice Chancellor said. “My hope is that we do not wait another 600 years to take advantage of this freedom. The most important resource we have is not minerals; it is human resources—you, the youth.”
Prof. Nawangwe reminded students that Makerere’s reputation as the “intellectual capital of Africa” places immense responsibility on their shoulders.
“You are among the very few Ugandans privileged to study at Makerere University. University graduates are not supposed to wait for jobs—you are the ones expected to create them,” he said.
Why Blockchain? Transparency, efficiency, and global competitiveness
The Vice Chancellor highlighted the transformative potential of blockchain technology, especially in improving financial systems—a sector he described as the backbone of any modern economy.
“Without efficient financial systems, nothing else works,” he said. “Blockchain offers transparency, reduces fraud, and minimizes corruption. If applied properly, it could transform how we manage finances, education, and even our natural resources, including the oil that Uganda is about to exploit.”
He added that Makerere’s students are already demonstrating global competitiveness in innovation, winning international competitions and creating products across multiple disciplines.
“The brains are here,” he said. “What we need is exposure to opportunities and technologies that will help you turn your ideas into impactful solutions.”
In a passionate keynote address, SoonPay CEO, Mr. Frantz Morency underscored why his company chose Uganda as its launchpad for blockchain adoption in Africa.
“As the Professor said, we have been excluded for more than 400 years,” he stated. “Even though we’re an American company, we know our roots. Look around the SoonPay team—you will see yourselves. We chose Uganda intentionally.”
Mr. Morency pointed to Africa’s dismal participation in the global blockchain economy. “In the U.S., blockchain generates $2.6 billion—61.7 percent of the world’s share. The rest of the world generates $1.6 billion. And Africa, just $14 million, or 0.33 percent,” he said. “That is unacceptable.”
He attributed the gap not to a lack of interest among young Africans, but to a lack of opportunity. “You want to learn—what you lacked was opportunity,” he said. “With the support of Professor Nawangwe, Dr. Cathy Ikiror Mbidde, and Dr. Margaret Nagwovuma, SoonPay wants to bridge that gap in education, technology, and economic opportunity.”
Mr. Morency also shared his personal journey, connecting his Haitian background to the aspirations of African youth.
“Many of you may see me as ‘the guy in the green suit,’ but I come from a small island—Haiti,” he said. “My mother never finished first grade; my father never finished second grade. What they gave me was integrity, work ethic, and the determination to seize opportunities when they came.”
He urged students not to seek opportunities abroad out of desperation, but to build meaningful careers in Africa. “Africa does not need to lose its talent. Why can’t you build here? Why can’t businesses, innovation, and prosperity thrive here?” he said. “Educate yourselves. Build. Create. Grow.”
A milestone for Makerere and Africa
Dr. Cathy Ikiror Mbidde, Head of the Makerere University Technology and Innovation Centre (MUTIC), described the event as a “major milestone” in the institution’s evolution.
“We are here to witness one of the key emerging technologies and to reflect on how universities can embrace such milestones,” she said. “Everyone has a role to play in transforming our lives through research, ideas, and projects.”
She thanked SoonPay for choosing Makerere University, noting that students had been “instrumental” in pushing for blockchain education.
“You have been constantly asking questions, pushing us, and showing deep curiosity about blockchain. Today, we finally have answers,” she told the students.
Beyond the speeches, the event showcased SoonPay’s blockchain infrastructure, student-led innovations, and a roadmap for integrating digital finance tools into university programs. Partners such as NSSF emphasized the importance of preparing young people for a digital future.
With the MoU now in force, Makerere University is positioning itself as a regional hub for blockchain education, research, and innovation. The partnership with SoonPay aims not only to train students but to shape Uganda’s—and Africa’s—next generation of tech leaders.
Kampala, Uganda
21st November 2025
Makerere University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) has graduated 71 students under Phase 2 of the e-VBAB Project, a collaboration between Amity University in India and Makerere University. The ceremony, held at Block B CoCIS, was presided over by Principal Prof. Tonny Oyana on behalf of the Vice Chancellor.
The program, funded by the Government of India, offered 100 percent scholarships to Ugandan students through the Pan-African e-Network Project, which provides tele-education and tele-medicine services across 48 African countries. Uganda signed onto the initiative in 2019, and more than 1,700 Ugandan students have benefited since its inception.
In his remarks, Prof. Oyana praised the efforts of program coordinators and support staff, singling out Madam Claire for her dedication. “Coordinating things remotely from other countries is not easy, but you have been humble enough to ensure that these graduates have seen the light,” he said. He also thanked custodians and security personnel who facilitated exams and weekend access for students.
Prof. Oyana emphasized the importance of completing studies, noting that many students remain pending. “Please encourage your friends because there’s no reason not to finish. You honor us, honor the government of India, the taxpayers, by completing,” he urged. He reminded graduates that their degrees are recognized by Uganda’s National Council for Higher Education and warned against fraudulent claims. “Only hard-earned degrees are recognized. There’s no easy way out,” he cautioned.
Reflecting on the program’s history, Oyana described the graduates as “COVID children” who persevered through the pandemic. He also offered career advice, stressing humility, confidence, and attitude. “Having a good attitude does not cost money. It is free. And it’s good for your heart. Happiness is not sold anywhere,” he said. He encouraged graduates to create opportunities through entrepreneurship and to value professional networks.
The graduation marked the conclusion of the e-VBAB collaboration, with Prof. Oyana reminding students of their unique place in history as the first and only cohort under the Makerere–Amity partnership. “You are the first cohort. Everybody looks upon you wondering, will you make it? History will write down that we are the only cohort,” he said.
Prof. Oyana Urges Graduates to Pursue Gifts, Confidence and Positive Attitudes
Prof. Tonny Oyana urged graduates to embrace humility, confidence, and entrepreneurship as they prepare for life beyond academia, warning that degrees alone are not a guarantee of success.
Oyana reflected on his career in academia. “But I’m still here, surviving and kicking. I have been with academia technically from 1993. I have not changed career. I grew my career through academia,” he said, noting that while psychology suggests people change careers five times, he has remained committed to one path.
He cautioned against unrealistic ambitions, particularly in politics, referencing Uganda’s crowded presidential race. “Not everybody can be president. So exercise your dreams with some caution. Don’t waste your time in an initiative that you know will not break through,” he advised, urging graduates to instead pursue areas aligned with their spiritual gifts and natural talents.
Turning to the job market, Prof. Oyana highlighted the challenges of employment. “In order to get a faculty job, you had to put in 40 applications. Now, I think it has doubled. These days, there’s no courtesy. They don’t even reply to your application,” he said. He encouraged graduates to create their own opportunities through entrepreneurship, stressing that education provides knowledge, skills, and values.
He underscored the importance of attitude, describing it as a free but powerful tool. “Having a good attitude does not cost money. It is free. And it’s good for your heart. Happiness is not sold anywhere. So, you make your attitude positive, things will be positive,” he said. He warned that arrogance and poor manners can sabotage success, urging students to practice humility both in professional and personal life.
Prof. Oyana also emphasized confidence and self-presentation. “You are your own moving advert. Don’t sabotage your own confidence. Be very clear about what you bring to the table,” he said, advising graduates to rehearse their self-introductions and prepare thoroughly for interviews.
Finally, he highlighted the value of professional networks, recalling how his PhD cohort became a lifelong support system. “It became my network for success. Please keep your network. Even if you haven’t gotten much in your life, face it,” he said.
The Principal’s remarks blended personal anecdotes with practical advice, reinforcing the message that success requires humility, preparation, resilience and strong networks beyond academic achievement.
CiPSD Director Nalubega Praises Teamwork, Urges Graduates to Believe in Themselves
The Director of the Center for Innovations and Professional Skills Development (CiPSD), Ms. Barbara Nalubega, praised graduates and staff for their teamwork and resilience .
Addressing the graduates, Nalubega said the success of the program was achieved despite challenges. “I’m very humbled that amidst all the same challenges, we have built rapport, worked as a team, and here we are. This is the day that the Lord has made,” she remarked.
She thanked graduates for their encouragement and support, noting that she had received hundreds of messages of gratitude during the course of the program. She singled out several students, including Damali, Fatuma, Josh, Sam, Paula, Sheila, and Michael, for their commitment, and extended special appreciation to Dan, who, though not part of the graduation, sent her flowers in recognition of her efforts.
Nalubega also acknowledged her colleagues and partners who played key roles in the ceremony’s success. She commended Claire, the e-learning coordinator, Annette, who managed gowns for graduates, and Brenda, the supplier, for their dedication. She revealed that she personally staked two million shillings in the Bank to ensure latecomers were accommodated. “This wouldn’t have been possible without you making payments in the bank on time,” she said.
Nalubega emphasized humility and accountability, apologizing to those who may have been hurt along the way. “Apologizing to you is not an uphill task for me. When I make a mistake, I usually apologize,” she stated.
She concluded by encouraging graduates to believe in themselves and the transformative power of education. “Through education, the son of a farm or mine worker can become the president of a great nation. Yes, believe in yourself,” she said, citing Nelson Mandela’s rise from humble beginnings to the presidency of South Africa as an example.
The Director’s message underscored the importance of teamwork, resilience, humility, and self-belief as graduates embark on their next chapter.
Graduates Laud Resilience, Faith and Global Support
Graduates under the e-VBAB Project and Amity University–Makerere collaboration celebrated perseverance, faith, and international partnerships as they addressed the audience during the) graduation ceremony.
Representing the e-VBAB project graduates, Isoke Gloria, a former student of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), expressed gratitude for the milestone. “It’s not been easy, but we thank God so much for bringing us to this day. May His name be glorified,” she said. Gloria praised the scholarships provided under the project, noting, “We would never have made it here without their support. They’ve made our academic journey so easy and a success.” She also commended Makerere University and coordinator Barbara Nalubega for their encouragement and commitment.
Duncan Nagenda, an Amity University master’s student, highlighted the challenges of online learning, describing it as demanding and often unpredictable. “Online education is not a joke. If you ask me, it should be added on the list of a thousand ways to die,” he said, recalling internet disruptions and strict exam protocols. He acknowledged the support of lecturers in India, parents, and Makerere staff, particularly e-learning coordinator Claire. “To my class of 2025, may your future be filled with purpose, may your opportunities be abundant, and may your journey ahead be guided by excellence and wisdom,” he concluded.
Joshua Mugabo, also from Amity University, emphasized faith and resilience. “Who would not have been here without God? It is His grace that carried us, His strength that sustained us, and His favor that opened doors we once feared were closed,” he said. Mugabo reflected on hardships such as blackouts, poor internet, and family responsibilities, but celebrated the resilience gained. “A degree might put something in our hand, but education puts something in your heart. And today’s world urgently needs what is in our hearts,” he added. He paid tribute to the Government of India, Makerere University, and mentors in Uganda and India, invoking Nelson Mandela’s words: “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.”
The graduates’ remarks underscored the significance of international collaboration, personal perseverance, and the transformative power of education, marking the ceremony not only as a celebration of academic achievement but also of resilience and shared vision for the future.
Find the details about this project and graduates in the booklet attached.
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