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Mak Hosts Commonwealth Delegates Attending 27th CSPOC

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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. Visit by 27th CSPOC Delegates to Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 5th January 2024.
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. Visit by 27th CSPOC Delegates to Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 5th January 2024.
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. Visit by 27th CSPOC Delegates to Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 5th January 2024.
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.”

Following the briefing, the delegates toured the Makerere University Innovation Hub as well as a showcase of projects funded by the Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF).

Delegates listen to an exhibitor from CoVAB talk about the Low-Cost (Bulamu) Medical Ventilator. Visit by 27th CSPOC Delegates to Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 5th January 2024.
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 TitleCollegePI’s Name
1Development and promotion of solar powered energy-saving smart electric cook stoves to reduce the cooking carbon footprint in households, institutions and industries: (SE-Cookers)CAESDr. Peter Tumutegyereize
2Developing and Testing Digital Games for Teenage Reproductive and Mental Health EducationMUBSDr. Joseph Kizito Bada
3Ajon (local brew in Eastern Uganda) Gold: Mechanizing processing and improving shelf lifeMUBSDr. Bosco Amerit
4Increasing Aquaculture production in Uganda through low-cost monitoring systemsMUBSDr. Charles Olupot
5Developing a community-based model for integrating bioenergy and poultry production using rice agro-waste (Integrated bioenergy agriculture model)CoVABDr. Gabriel Tumwine
6Risk assessment of heavy metals in vegetables consumed in Kampala UgandaCoVABDr. Tamale Andrew
7Vitex Medical Tool: An Artificial Intelligence Hospital device that disinfects surfaces and supports Health care workers in Infection controlCoVABDr. Edward Ssebuufu
8Redvers e-mobility bike: An electric powered motorcycleCEDATDr. Hillary Kasedde
9Nylon Based Litter Management Trap for Drainage SystemsCEDATDr. Andrew Ayor
10E-health system-Mobile data collectorCoCISDr. Nakibuule Rose
11Improving Livelihoods of Small-Scale Producers in Uganda through Digital Advisory ServicesCoCISDr. Richard Edema
12An automated feedback module for smallholder farmers in crowdsourcing at scale for real-time crop health surveillanceCoCISDr. Florence Nameere Kivunike
13Crane Cloud: An open-source multi-cloud service layer for highly available cloud-based services in AfricaCoCISDr. Bainomugisha Engineer
14The Enhanced Product Development and Pilot Testing of a Smart Postpartum haemorrhage Volumetric Drape for Early detection of postpartum haemorrhage during child birthCHSDr. Sam Ononge
15A Whole University Approach: Kicking Sexual Harassment Out of Higher Education Institutions in Uganda (KISH)Gender MainstreamingProf. Grace Bantebya
16Labour Externalization Pathways to The Gulf Cooperating Countries (GCCs) and Development Implications for UgandaGender MainstreamingDr. Richard Asaba Bagonza
17Practicals for the Home for the Rural StudentCoNASDr. Taddeo Ssenyonga
18Development of Value-added Phytogenic Feed Additives to Replace Conventional Antibiotics in Chicken FeedsCoNASDr. Alice Nabatanzi
19Enhancing The Grain Amaranth Value Chain for Improved Nutrition, Livelihoods and Enterprises Development in UgandaCAESDr. Dorothy Nakimbugwe
20Manufacturing, Clinical Testing and Commercialization of a Rapid Diagnostic Test for COVID-19CHSProf. Misaki Wayengera
21Epi Tent  
22Development of Freza a nanotechnology-based preservation solution for shelf-life extension of fruits and vegetables for the local farmer, retailer and vendor in UgandaMUBSDr. Mutumba Abbey
23Enhancing Value Addition on Potato-Sorghum enterprises for Improved Livelihoods in Uganda (EVaPoSIL)CAESProf. Johnny Mugisha
24The Low-Cost (Bulamu) Medical VentilatorCoVABProf. Frank Mwine
25Improving Point-of-Care Learning for Prostate and Breast Cancer using Machine LearningCoCISDr. Peter Nabende
Additional Projects Exhibited (Not funded by Mak-RIF)
26Automating Mobile Microscopy: Diagnostics for MalariaCoCISDr. Rose Nakasi
Table of Projects showcased during the visit by delegates of the 27th CSPOC to Makerere University on 5th January 2024.

Mark Wamai

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Office of the Academic Registrar Lauded for Groundbreaking Achievements In Digitalization

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Mr. Charles Ssentongo (5th Left), together with Office of the Academic Registrar staff members are joined by Dr. Dickson Kalungi (4th Right) and MUST Registrars for a group photo in front of the Senate Building on 25th March 2025.

By Gerald Ochwo

On 25th March 2025, a delegation of Registrars from Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) undertook a benchmarking exercise at Makerere University, with a specific focus on the latter’s pioneering efforts in academic records digitalization. The delegation, led by Dr. Dickson Kalungi, Ag. Deputy Academic Registrar was received by Mr. Charles Ssentongo, Deputy Academic Registrar in charge of Admissions and Records Division, who represented the Academic Registrar (AR), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi.

The visit was prompted by Makerere University‘s trailblazing achievements in digitalizing academic records, as exemplified by the Digitalization of Academic Records Project (DARP). This initiative has been instrumental in creating a centralized, digital one stop repository of all University’s academic records, thereby enhancing the efficiency, accuracy, and security of academic records management.

In his welcoming remarks, Mr. Ssentongo conveyed the Academic Registrar’s message and highlighted Makerere University‘s efforts to digitalize all its processes and records. He further noted that the university is intentional about creating a digital ecosystem that makes academic records retrieval easy and efficient.

As a university, we are now intentional with the digitalization of all our processes including, digitization of our manual records that date as way back as the inception of Makerere University. Currently, the DARP project as gone as far as creating a one stop center for both Academic document verification and certification, whereby our former graduates, will only need to access the online verification and certification portal and submit their documents without necessarily having to travel many physical distances to Makerere University” Mr. Ssentongo remarked.

Registrars from MAK and MUST pose for a group photo after the meeting. Left is article author Gerald Ochwo.
Registrars from MAK and MUST pose for a group photo after the meeting. Left is article author Gerald Ochwo.

In his appreciation remarks, the MUST head of delegation, Dr. Dickson Kalungi, thanked the Academic Registrar for honoring their request to come and learn from the best practices that exist at Makerere University and particularly commended the Department for the great steps and strides made in pioneering modern Academic records storage management systems.

“I want to sincerely thank the Office of the Academic Registrar for sparing time and organizing this meeting. As a University, we have embarked on a transformative change drive whereby we intend to automate all our registry processes including, the management of Academic Records. The DARP project at Makerere University, has been one project where we draw a number of lessons and we are eager to go and implement some of the best practices we have observed here today”

Conclusion

The benchmarking exercise undertaken by Mbarara University of Science and Technology demonstrates the significance of Makerere University and particularly, the Office of the Academic Registrar’s achievements in academic records digitalization. The DARP project serves as a model for other institutions to follow, highlighting the importance of investing in digital solutions to enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and security of academic records management. It further demonstrates the university’s commitment to sharing knowledge and best practices with other institutions. Makerere University‘s efforts in digitalizing academic records have set a high standard for other universities to emulate, and the DARP project is a shining example of innovation and excellence in academic records management.

Gerald Ochwo is the Liaison Officer, Office of the Academic Registrar

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Press Release: Launch of #MakRun2025

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Makerere University officially launches the 5th Edition of the Makerere University Marathon #MakRun2025, 27th March 2025, Main Hall, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

27th March 2025

LAUNCH OF THE 5TH EDITION OF THE MAKERERE UNIVERSITY MARATHON (#MakRun2025)

Makerere University is pleased to announce the launch of the 5th edition of the Makerere
University Marathon, also known as #MakRun2025, under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future” which is scheduled to take place on 17th August 2025.

The MakRun2025 is targeting 10,000 participants drawn from the university community, corporate entities, sports enthusiasts, and the general public. Proceeds from this year’s marathon will go towards further equipping the Makerere University Disability Support Unit and strengthening the Makerere University Endowment Fund.

Speaking as the Guest of Honour, the Minister for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, emphasized the unifying power of sports, stating that the “#MakRun2025 is not only about physical endurance it is a uniting force that brings people together from all walks of life, driving us towards a common goal, advancing education and inclusivity for all.”

As part of the launch event, Makerere University officially handed over assistive equipment to the Disability Support Unit, procured from proceeds of the #MakRun2024. The equipment includes:

  • Focus Blue 40 Braille Display – 5th Generation for the Visually Impaired
  • Everest D5 Braille Embosser
  • DUXBURY Braille Transcription Software
  • And other essential assistive tools to support students living with disabilities.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, reaffirmed the importance of this annual event, stating that “This event has become one of the most significant social and community engagement activities in our university calendar, bringing together students, staff, alumni, corporate partners, and members of the wider public for a good cause.”

In his remarks, the Ag. Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund, Mr. Barnabas Tumusingize, highlighted the growth of the initiative: “What started as a small university event has now evolved into a major attraction. To professionalize the event, we are incorporating race timing chips, cash prizes for winners, among other enhancements, with a vision of making it a regionally recognized major race by 2027.”

We call upon all members of the Makerere University community and the general public to participate and support this noble cause.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Tuhirirwe Karane
Communications Officer
Makerere University Endowment Fund
+256 414 660 416/+256 703 647496

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Call For Abstracts: Global Symposium on Insects for Food, Feed & Food Security in Africa

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Some of the speakers lined up for the Global Symposium on Insects for Food, Feed, and Food Security in Africa, 5th–6th June 2025, Onomo Hotel, Nakasero, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University, in collaboration with Michigan State University, invites researchers, development actors, regulators, and practitioners to submit abstracts for the Global Symposium on Insects for Food, Feed, and Food Security in Africa.

The symposium will be held from 5th–6th June 2025 at Onomo Hotel in Kampala, under the theme: Advancing the role of insects in African farming systems for feed, food, and food security. The symposium aims to share knowledge and experiences in advancing the use of insects as a solution to Africa’s food, feed, and food security challenges. Contributions on the following sub-themes are welcome.

  1. Insects as animal feed for sustainable livestock production livelihoods
  2. Insects for human food and food security, including indigenous insect food systems
  3. Insects for improved soil health and crop production
  4. Commercialization of insect farming and products, including regulation and standardization

Important Dates:
Abstract Submission Deadline: 18th April 2025
Feedback to Participants: 2nd May 2025

Registration Fee:  Participants will be required to pay a fee of USD 45, which will cover meals and venue costs. Limited scholarship slots are available for students and farmers. Please note that participants are responsible for their transportation and accommodation.

Submission Guidelines: Abstracts should align with the symposium themes and must be submitted by the deadline. Further details on submission formats and requirements will be provided upon request.

For further information about the symposium and Abstract submission, please refer to the contact below.

Dr. Amulen Deborah Ruth (PhD)
Makerere University
College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity
Department of Livestock Industrial Resources
P.O. Box 7062, Kampala
Phone: +256 782 315 636

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