The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Members of Management pose for a group photo at the Makerere@100 Monument with Hon. Maurice Kibalya (Right) and the delegates at the end of the visit to Makerere University on 5th January 2024.
On Friday 5th January 2024, Makerere University was privileged to host delegates of the 27th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) hosted by the Parliament of Uganda from 3rd to 6th January 2024. A biannual event, the 28th Edition of CSPOC will be hosted by India in 2026. The delegation was led by the Member of Parliament for Bugabula South Hon. Maurice Kibalya, who also served as Makerere Guild President from 2005 to 2006.
The delegates were received at the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Members of Management. Welcoming the visitors, the Vice Chancellor said that Makerere as the region’s premier Higher Education Institution recognizes the need to conduct research that addresses issues such as climate change, food security, emerging diseases, natural disasters, fast population growth and conflicts that affect the community, country and continent.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe addresses the 27th CSPOC Delegates in the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium.
“We do this mainly through 36 research centres. We also have centres of excellence such as the Africa Regional Centre of Excellence for Crop Improvement (MaRCCI) because food is going to be the most important thing to solve with the growing population. And we also have the Africa Centre of Excellence in Material Product Development and Nanotechnology (MAPRONANO), which is using the highest technology to come up with innovations in medicine and other engineering fields” remarked Prof. Nawangwe.
The Vice Chancellor informed delegates that Makerere, through dedicated funding for research and innovations from Government is modernizing her research infrastructure. “Our promise is that we are all set for the next century of service to humanity. I thank you for honouring us with your visit and I hope that you enjoy the rest of your stay in Uganda.”
The Head of Delegation and MP for Bugabula South, Hon. Maurice Kibalya.
In his remarks, the Head of Delegation thanked the University Leadership for preparing to host the delegation at short notice, and apologized on behalf of the Parliament of Uganda and the CSPOC Organising Committee for the absence of the Speakers and Presiding Officers who were visiting Quality Chemicals Limited the same day. He nevertheless informed the Leadership that the Parliament of Uganda is set to host the Pan-African Parliament in May 2024, and is scheduled to host the African Parliamentary Union in 2024, during which events visits to Makerere University will be arranged.
Dr. Nakibuule Rose from CoCIS (Right) talks to the delegates about the E-health system-Mobile data collector during their tour of Mak-RIF projects.
Commending the strides made by the University in research and innovations and acknowledging the need for more support to consolidate these efforts, Hon. Kibalya reassured, “We are proud of Makerere University… Vice Chancellor, you have the best will at the current Parliament.”
Delegates listen to an exhibitor from CoVAB talk about the Low-Cost (Bulamu) Medical Ventilator.
Please see the table below for the list of Mak-RIF projects exhibited.
No.
Project Title
College
PI’s Name
1
Development and promotion of solar powered energy-saving smart electric cook stoves to reduce the cooking carbon footprint in households, institutions and industries: (SE-Cookers)
CAES
Dr. Peter Tumutegyereize
2
Developing and Testing Digital Games for Teenage Reproductive and Mental Health Education
MUBS
Dr. Joseph Kizito Bada
3
Ajon (local brew in Eastern Uganda) Gold: Mechanizing processing and improving shelf life
MUBS
Dr. Bosco Amerit
4
Increasing Aquaculture production in Uganda through low-cost monitoring systems
MUBS
Dr. Charles Olupot
5
Developing a community-based model for integrating bioenergy and poultry production using rice agro-waste (Integrated bioenergy agriculture model)
CoVAB
Dr. Gabriel Tumwine
6
Risk assessment of heavy metals in vegetables consumed in Kampala Uganda
CoVAB
Dr. Tamale Andrew
7
Vitex Medical Tool: An Artificial Intelligence Hospital device that disinfects surfaces and supports Health care workers in Infection control
CoVAB
Dr. Edward Ssebuufu
8
Redvers e-mobility bike: An electric powered motorcycle
CEDAT
Dr. Hillary Kasedde
9
Nylon Based Litter Management Trap for Drainage Systems
CEDAT
Dr. Andrew Ayor
10
E-health system-Mobile data collector
CoCIS
Dr. Nakibuule Rose
11
Improving Livelihoods of Small-Scale Producers in Uganda through Digital Advisory Services
CoCIS
Dr. Richard Edema
12
An automated feedback module for smallholder farmers in crowdsourcing at scale for real-time crop health surveillance
CoCIS
Dr. Florence Nameere Kivunike
13
Crane Cloud: An open-source multi-cloud service layer for highly available cloud-based services in Africa
CoCIS
Dr. Bainomugisha Engineer
14
The Enhanced Product Development and Pilot Testing of a Smart Postpartum haemorrhage Volumetric Drape for Early detection of postpartum haemorrhage during child birth
CHS
Dr. Sam Ononge
15
A Whole University Approach: Kicking Sexual Harassment Out of Higher Education Institutions in Uganda (KISH)
Gender Mainstreaming
Prof. Grace Bantebya
16
Labour Externalization Pathways to The Gulf Cooperating Countries (GCCs) and Development Implications for Uganda
Gender Mainstreaming
Dr. Richard Asaba Bagonza
17
Practicals for the Home for the Rural Student
CoNAS
Dr. Taddeo Ssenyonga
18
Development of Value-added Phytogenic Feed Additives to Replace Conventional Antibiotics in Chicken Feeds
CoNAS
Dr. Alice Nabatanzi
19
Enhancing The Grain Amaranth Value Chain for Improved Nutrition, Livelihoods and Enterprises Development in Uganda
CAES
Dr. Dorothy Nakimbugwe
20
Manufacturing, Clinical Testing and Commercialization of a Rapid Diagnostic Test for COVID-19
CHS
Prof. Misaki Wayengera
21
Epi Tent
22
Development of Freza a nanotechnology-based preservation solution for shelf-life extension of fruits and vegetables for the local farmer, retailer and vendor in Uganda
MUBS
Dr. Mutumba Abbey
23
Enhancing Value Addition on Potato-Sorghum enterprises for Improved Livelihoods in Uganda (EVaPoSIL)
CAES
Prof. Johnny Mugisha
24
The Low-Cost (Bulamu) Medical Ventilator
CoVAB
Prof. Frank Mwine
25
Improving Point-of-Care Learning for Prostate and Breast Cancer using Machine Learning
CoCIS
Dr. Peter Nabende
Additional Projects Exhibited (Not funded by Mak-RIF)
26
Automating Mobile Microscopy: Diagnostics for Malaria
CoCIS
Dr. Rose Nakasi
Table of Projects showcased during the visit by delegates of the 27th CSPOC to Makerere University on 5th January 2024.
The Office of Academic Registrar, Makerere University has released admission lists of candidates admitted under the Talented Sports Men & Women, Disability and District Quota Schemes with Government sponsorship 2026/27 Academic Year including appeals and remarked cases.
Other admission lists released include A-Level Applicants with Ugandan and those with Foreign Qualifications, Diploma in Performing Arts, Mature-Age Entry and Bachelor of Education (EXTERNAL Batch 2) for the Academic Year 2026/2027 under self sponsorship.
Visionary Blueprint to Drive Excellence, Innovation, and National Development.
Kampala, Uganda – July 2, 2026. — Makerere University today officially launched its Strategic Plan 2026–2030, outlining a bold roadmap for academic excellence, research innovation, and transformative impact on Uganda and the region. The high-profile launch event, held at Makerere University Main Campus, brought together government leaders, university stakeholders, development partners, and academia.
The Chief Guest, Hon. Henry Musasizi, Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, presided over the official launch. In his presentation, Vice Chancellor Prof. Nawangwe Barnabas highlighted the University’s past achievements and the new Plan’s strategic vision. “This Strategic Plan builds on our rich legacy while positioning Makerere University as a leader in addressing contemporary challenges through cutting-edge research, quality education, and innovation,” he stated.
The Plan was developed through an inclusive process led by the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, with input from across the University community. It aligns closely with national development priorities, as affirmed by Dr. Joseph Muvawala, Executive Director of the National Planning Authority.
University Council Chairperson Dr Lorna Magara emphasised the Council’s oversight role and commitment: “The University Council is fully committed to providing the strategic leadership and oversight necessary for the successful implementation of this Plan. It will strengthen Makerere’s role as a driver of Uganda’s socio-economic transformation and ensure we remain a beacon of excellence in higher education across Africa.”
Development partners, Vice Chancellors from other public universities, college principals, deans, professors, and student representatives attended the event, underscoring broad stakeholder support.
Key Pillars of the Strategic Plan 2026–2030 include enhancing excellence in teaching and learning, advancing research and innovation, strengthening infrastructure and sustainability, promoting inclusivity, and deepening engagement with industry and government. Following the formal proceedings, guests participated in a networking breakfast and media engagement session.
Additional Quotes:
“Makerere University remains Uganda’s flagship institution. This Strategic Plan will further harness our intellectual capital to contribute meaningfully to the National Development Plan and Vision 2040.” — Hon. Henry Musasizi, Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.
“We are excited to embark on this new strategic journey. With the support of our dedicated staff, students, alumni, and partners, we will achieve even greater heights in the next five years.” — Prof. Nawangwe Barnabas, Vice Chancellor, Makerere University
Makerere University is Uganda’s oldest and largest public university, established in 1922. It is a world-class institution recognised for academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and cross-disciplinary innovation. With over 35,000 students and a strong alumni network, Makerere continues to shape leaders and solutions for Africa and beyond.
For more information, contact:
Ms. Eunice Rukundo, Deputy Chief, Public Relations
The Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe has today, Friday, 26th June 2026 handed over the CCE (Complex) Hall of Residence Site to National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) Managing Director and CEO, Lieutenant General James Mugira for renovation and overhaul works. The UGX 12billion Government of Uganda-funded works, expected to be completed within a year, are the fourth project to be undertaken by NEC. They were preceded by; construction of the University Perimeter Wall, Renovation of Lumumba Hall, and Renovation of Mary Stuart Hall.
NEC’s Record Lauded
Prof. Nawangwe in his remarks at the handover ceremony lauded these projects. “The quality of work done by NEC makes us proud because we can finally say that we have Ugandans who can do the things, which we previously depended on foreigners to do.” He therefore thanked the Government of Uganda for fully funding the projects and the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Museveni, whose visit set the renovation projects in motion.
The Vice Chancellor added that as the Alma mater for most members of both the Contractor and Project Management Teams, this was a moment of great pride as their expertise and skills have saved the country billions of taxpayers’ money. “Thank you for being patriotic”, he commended.
Arch. Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere (R) leads the team on a guided tour of the site.
Prof. Nawangwe concluded by noting that CCE Hall, by virtue of its location, provides a first impression of Makerere University as a whole. He therefore urged the contractor to ensure that upon renovation, CCE Hall would create a memorable and lasting first impression, exceeding even that of the renovated Mary Stuart Hall.
A Project Fueled by Nostalgia
Speaking of impressions, Lt. Gen. Mugira, with nostalgia recalled that close to 42 years ago, he not only attended his first lectures in Hall 1 of the CCE Complex but also, on a more personal note added, “my wife was a resident, and so I have every motivation to put in a lot of effort and make sure that I deliver more than was done with Mary Stuart and Lumumba.”
He therefore extended heartfelt appreciation to his Alma mater Makerere University for the trust and confidence bestowed in NEC, which underscored their ability to deliver. “Trust is earned through performance, through integrity and consistency, and your decision to engage us motivates us to work even harder to exceed your expectations.”
L-R: Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, Lt. Gen. James Mugira, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe inspect the top floor of CCE Hall.
In his remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) Prof. Henry Alinaitwe reechoed the need to ensure that the project is executed with adherence to the cost, quality, specifications and safety related issues as earlier shared by the Acting (Ag.) Chief Engineer of Estates and Works, Eng. Ezra Sekadde.
“NEC has already demonstrated this (with previous projects), and that is why we have all the confidence that you can deliver this project within 12 months” remarked Prof. Alinaitwe. He equally lauded the Project Management Team (PMT) led by Arch. Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere whose supervision ensures timely project completion.
Relatedly, Arch. Dr. Semwogerere was on 25th June 2026, the eve of the handover, promoted to the rank of Associate Professor, a milestone Prof. Alinaitwe attributed to his track record as Head of PMT. He therefore, on a light note, urged him to keep up the good work as this could equally contribute to his promotion to the rank of full Professor.
R-L: Eng. Ezra Sekadde, Eng. Brian Buhanda, Prof. Anthony Mugagga, Arch. Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere and other stakeholders at the site handover.
Also present at the handover ceremony was the Principal, College of Education and External Studies (CEES) Prof. Anthony Mugagga, whose unit will be greatly affected by the renovations. He nevertheless welcomed and reiterated his full support for the project, noting that just as renovation of Lumumba and Mary Stuart Halls had resulted in many alumni revisiting, the CCE Complex would upon renovation attract former residents and teaching professionals to give back or forge new partnerships.
Student Welfare at the Forefront
On her part, the Dean of Students Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli lauded the renovations of Halls of Residence as a clear demonstration of Government’s dedication to the improvement of student welfare, and creating an environment conducive for nurturing responsible citizens who can contribute to national development. She pledged her Office’s and the Student Leadership’s readiness to ensure that the renovated facilities used responsibly for the benefit of future generations.
Stakeholders pose for a group photo after the event.
As a resident of the recently renovated Mary Stuart Hall, 92nd Guild President H.E. Kadondi Gracious could not help but appreciate how impactful the renovation of CCE Hall would be to student welfare. “The female students will be very excited (to occupy CCE Hall) but the male students will be left complaining – so we shall be expecting more renovations, not just for the female but also the male students,” she amiably concluded.