Makerere University staff have been urged to embrace collaboration, accountability, and capacity building as key strategies for winning grants under the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (RIF). Speaking on the second day of the CHUSS CERTL International Conference at Fairway Hotel  on 15^th November 2024, Prof. Fred Masagazi-Masaazi, Chair of the Mak RIF Grants Management Committee, emphasized the need to eliminate the “Pekeyangu” culture—where researchers work individually—and instead foster teamwork and partnerships.

Prof. Masagazi encouraged staff to form inter-college and institutional research teams, as well as collaborate with national public and private organizations in crafting proposals. He underscored the value of drawing diverse expertise from different sectors to enhance competitiveness and innovation. “Working alone must stop. Let’s prioritize teamwork and include diverse expertise in grant writing,” he said, adding that partnerships with external stakeholders, including government institutions and private sector players, were critical to winning grants.

In his presentation titled Makerere Research and Innovation Fund: Opportunities and Challenges in the 21st Century, Prof. Masagazi highlighted the importance of timely accountability for disbursed funds. He warned that management would blacklist staff members who failed to provide proper accountability.

Addressing the performance of colleges in grant proposal submissions, Prof. Masagazi observed that humanities-based disciplines were underperforming compared to other colleges, such as the College of Health Sciences and Makerere University Business School. He called on the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) to actively participate in the ongoing sixth call for proposals, set to close in a few weeks, urging them to leverage their potential and submit competitive projects.

The RIF committee, he said, plans to provide special consideration for staff who have applied unsuccessfully for grants in the past, giving them an additional opportunity to benefit from funding.

Prof. Masagazi commended CHUSS for organizing forums to discuss research, teaching, and learning. He reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to supporting such initiatives, particularly those that promote impactful research and broaden collaborations with stakeholders from the Global North and South. He also encouraged staff to adopt a multidisciplinary approach to research and proposal development, stating that working with diverse stakeholders enhances the communication of research findings to broader audiences.

Reflecting on Makerere University’s seven-year journey in establishing RIF, Prof. Masagazi lauded the Ugandan government for its commitment to funding high-quality research aimed at transforming lives. RIF currently operates with a budget of UGX 30 billion, and Prof. Masagazi expressed hope that CHUSS could secure a significant portion of this funding for its projects.

He noted that some of the most impactful RIF-funded projects have emerged from CHUSS, including Prof. Dominic Dipio’s research on Uganda’s cultural heritage, which garnered significant global attention, and Dr. Esuruk Robert’s study on cross-border conflicts and peacebuilding in Uganda. Additionally, Prof. Edith Natukunda developed teaching resources that have transformed French language education in Ugandan schools, while other projects have advanced the digitalization of academic programs and supported commercialization of innovations.

Prof. Masagazi outlined several strategies for maximizing RIF’s impact, including mobilizing alternative funding sources from international donors and local partners. He revealed plans to create a dedicated funding slot for individuals who have applied unsuccessfully multiple times, ensuring greater inclusivity and opportunities for all researchers. However, he emphasized that maintaining high-quality proposals would remain a priority.

The professor called on CHUSS to leverage its expertise in areas such as tourism, culture, linguistics, and indigenous knowledge to influence national policy and contribute to socio-economic transformation. He encouraged research that integrates traditional knowledge with contemporary practices, fosters cultural development, and explores new frontiers in entertainment, sports, and linguistics.

Prof. Masagazi also addressed  the transparency and effective proposal evaluation and  consistencies in scoring by reviewers urging staff to strengthen their research capacity to meet competitive standards. He called on senior academics to mentor junior colleagues and include them in research teams, emphasizing the need to eliminate biases against humanities research and ensure equal opportunities across disciplines.

In closing, Prof. Masagazi reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to supporting research efforts across Makerere University. “Accountability, collaboration, and capacity building are crucial. Let us build strong research teams, submit timely proposals, and deliver transformative research for the benefit of Uganda and beyond,” he said.

The Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund, established in 2019, aims to produce high-quality research aligned with national development priorities. The sixth call for proposals remains open, presenting an opportunity for researchers to secure funding and contribute to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.

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The Chairperson of Makerere University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, has called for the university-wide standardization of CERTL initiatives to strengthen its research-led transformation. Mrs. Magara made this  call while presiding over the opening ceremony of the 2024 CHUSS Centre of Excellence in Research, Teaching, and Learning (CERTL) International Conference on November 14, 2024, at Fairway Hotel in Kampala.

The conference, under the theme, “Leveraging Centers of Excellence to enhance Makerere University‘s teaching, research, and learning landscape”, brought together academics, project leaders, keynote speakers, and panelists. Mrs. Magara acknowledged the crucial role of partners like the Mellon Foundation and Gerda Henkel Foundation in supporting the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) and advancing the university’s strategic objectives. The College received a $800,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation to support the establishment of CERTL, aiming to strengthen research, teaching, and learning in the Humanities and Humanistic Social Sciences at Makerere University.

Launched on September 16, 2020, CERTL has provided Makerere University faculty with opportunities to enhance their research, teaching, and learning practices. It has fostered renewal and pedagogical growth among senior faculty, created space for peer debates on academic practices, and supported curriculum design and pedagogical innovations within the college.

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Magara highlighted Makerere’s 2020-2030 Strategic Plan, emphasizing the transition from a teaching-focused to a research-led institution. She identified four key pillars: deepening research, building industry partnerships, fostering an innovative academic environment, and ensuring inclusive governance. She noted that CERTL’s contributions in research skills training, scholarly writing, and curriculum reorientation are setting a model that can be replicated across other colleges.

“CERTL’s mission to enhance research, teaching, and learning is perfectly aligned with Makerere University’s direction. Initiatives such as New Hires’ Workshops and the RATE (Reflect, Articulate, Translate, and Evaluate) framework are models that can enrich our academic practices university-wide,” Mrs. Magara said, encouraging the integration of CERTL’s frameworks across the institution.

Recognizing CERTL’s achievements, including over 40 publications and significant contributions to curriculum reforms, Mrs. Magara urged Makerere University’s leadership to expand CERTL’s mandate. “We look to CERTL as a catalyst to drive innovative approaches in teaching, research, and curriculum development, setting a foundation for a research-led institution,” she declared, officially opening the conference.

This international conference marks the conclusion of the CERTL project after four years of implementation at Makerere University. The project was conceived by the then Principal of CHUSS, Prof. Edward Kirumira, and suported by the then Dean, School of Languages, Literature and Communication and now, Vice Chancellor of Uganda Christian University, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi. The project has been led by the immediate former Principal of CHUSS, Prof. Josephine Ahikire, as Principal Investigator, with Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi and Dr. Levis Mugumya serving as Co-Principal Investigators and coordinators.

CHUSS Principal Assoc. Prof. Nkabala Highlights Pursuit of Excellence in Teaching and Research

CHUSS has been intensifying efforts to establish itself as a center of excellence in teaching, learning, and research through the CERTL project, according to CHUSS Principal, Associate Professor Helen Nabalirwa Nkabala.

Speaking at the conference, Prof. Nkabala commended the CERTL team’s dedication to creating a rich academic environment that prioritizes mentoring early-career researchers, accessibility for students with disabilities, and a collaborative approach to research. “We are not only here to conduct research but to make a significant impact on teaching and learning. We aim to lead Makerere into becoming a strong teaching and learning institution,” she said, emphasizing that CHUSS is “moving in the direction of excellence” by building on the strong foundation laid by previous faculty members.

Prof. Nkabala expressed her gratitude to the college’s leadership, particularly recognizing Professor Josephine Ahikire, the Principal Investigator of the CERTL project, which has been instrumental in advancing teaching strategies and research since 2020. “CERTL has allowed us to look at research from a new perspective and address the unique needs of students with disabilities,” she remarked, reflecting on the project’s role in promoting inclusivity and high standards in education.

She also acknowledged the contributions of key CHUSS faculty, including Dr. Levis Mugumya, Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi, and Dr. Pamela Khanakwa, in strengthening the college’s research efforts. “The dedication of our staff, including our registrars and administrative team, has been indispensable,” she added.

Looking ahead, Prof. Nkabala advocated for enhancing CHUSS’s interdisciplinary contributions across Makerere University, particularly through Communication Skills courses, which play a crucial role in academic writing and teaching methodologies. She hinted at a potential restructuring to further strengthen the English language and literature programs, emphasizing their critical role in achieving the college’s academic goals.

In her conclusion, Prof. Nkabala expressed her hope for continued collaboration with Makerere’s leadership in advancing the college’s academic mission, stating, “With the support of university leadership, we can firmly establish CHUSS as a model of excellence.”

“CERTL isn’t just a physical center; it’s a guiding vision across various colleges- PI Prof. Josephine Ahikire

The Principal Investigator of the CERTL project, Professor Josephine Ahikire, underscored the importance of the humanities in today’s academic landscape. In her address,, Prof. Ahikire highlighted the challenges humanities disciplines face, particularly in the wake of declining funding and the rise of digital learning technologies.

“Our goal from the beginning was to strengthen the humanities and address the impact of neoliberal reforms, rising enrollment, and budget cuts,” Prof. Ahikire explained. “We’re now at a point where we need to reinvent how we teach and inspire students, especially with the advent of artificial intelligence, to promote genuine learning rather than mere rote usage of digital tools.”

Acknowledging the CERTL project’s achievements, Prof. Ahikire stressed that the program remains focused on evolving beyond a single project into a sustained vision for the humanities at Makerere. “CERTL isn’t just a physical center; it’s a guiding vision that has extended its reach across various colleges at the university,” she said, applauding the project’s impact on new faculty training across departments.

Prof. Ahikire expressed confidence in the leadership of CHUSS Principal, Associate Professor Helen Nabalirwa Nkabala, and pledged to support her in advancing the college’s mission of academic excellence. “CHUSS is deeply committed to a research-led approach, and the work being done is truly impressive,” she assured attendees.

Prof. Ahikire concluded by emphasizing the college’s dedication to fostering a robust future for the humanities at Makerere University: “We continue to seek excellence as we build for the future, confident in the importance of the humanities to the intellectual core of our university.”

Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi Outlines CERTL Project Successes and Ambitious Goals for Humanities at Makerere Conference

Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi, Co-Principal Investigator of Makerere University’s Centre of Excellence in Research, Teaching, and Learning (CERTL), outlined the project’s significant achievements and ambitious goals.  He acknowledged the crucial support from key figures such as the former and current CHUSS Principals, Professors Helen Nkabala and Josephine Ahikire, and Deputy Prof. Eric Awich, as well as Professor Edward Kirumira, whose efforts secured funding from the Mellon Foundation. Dr. Nabutanyi also paid tribute to Dr. Elias State and Professor Aaron Mushengyezi for their role in fostering international partnerships.

According to Dr. Nabutanyi, CERTL has made notable strides in advancing research, teaching, and learning in the humanities. Though the target of 36 annual workshops wasn’t fully achieved, a significant number of workshops were successfully held, focusing on scientific writing, academic presentation skills, and scholarly publication. These workshops have contributed to strengthening academic rigor among graduate students and faculty.

One of CERTL’s key contributions, as highlighted by Dr. Nabutanyi, is its scholarly writing and publication initiatives. The project sponsored retreats focused on publication writing, leading to the development of several research articles and two curated special issues. These efforts have helped bring Global South perspectives to academic publishing, with journals like Mawazo and the Journal of Languages, Literature, and Communication offering critical platforms for these voices.

Another major achievement, Dr. Nabutanyi noted, is the development of a scholarly book, which consolidates insights from CERTL’s workshops and research initiatives. The book, which is nearing completion, will serve as an essential resource for teaching, research, and academic management in the Global South. Dr. Nabutanyi hinted at an upcoming formal launch event for the book.

Through Mellon Foundation funding, CERTL has provided research grants to Makerere faculty members across various academic fields. These grants have supported research on topics ranging from literature and disability studies to identity and pedagogy. Prominent contributors, as mentioned by Dr. Nabutanyi, include Dr. Peace Musimenta, Dr. Danson Kahyana, Dr. Sarah Nakijoba, Dr. Isaac Tibasiima Dr. Caesar , Dr. John Barugahare, Dr. James Wasike and others. These funded projects will enrich the academic discourse and contribute to future CERTL publications and curriculum innovations.

Dr. Nabutanyi also emphasized CERTL’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in academia. He pointed to ongoing research by Dr. James Wasike on disability in education, which has identified barriers faced by students with disabilities. Despite progress in enrolling students with disabilities, challenges remain, particularly in adapting teaching models to cater to diverse needs. CERTL, he noted, is committed to integrating findings from this research into future academic offerings.

Proposed Initiatives

Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi, proposed several key initiatives aimed at furthering the impact of the project on humanities research and teaching. He emphasized the importance of creating tailored pedagogical modules to accommodate students with disabilities. Dr. Nabutanyi highlighted Dr. Wasike’s research on disability as a cornerstone in shaping these modules, which would be designed to meet the diverse learning needs of students and foster a more inclusive academic environment at Makerere.

Dr. Nabutanyi also identified the need for comprehensive orientation workshops for newly hired faculty at Makerere, something previous workshops had indicated as beneficial. He proposed regular training sessions for new staff, as well as ongoing workshops for current faculty to engage with the latest teaching innovations, including the integration of artificial intelligence. These initiatives, he noted, would help align faculty members with best practices and address pedagogical challenges at the university, ensuring a cohesive and forward-thinking approach to teaching.

In addition to faculty development, Dr. Nabutanyi suggested the establishment of a “Best Teacher Award” to recognize and celebrate excellence in teaching. Drawing inspiration from similar programs at other institutions, he proposed this initiative be presented to Makerere’s Quality Assurance and Academic Registrar’s offices. The award would not only honor exceptional faculty members but also serve as an incentive for continued innovation in teaching and dedication to student success.

Dr. Nabutanyi further emphasized the importance of sustaining the academic community that CERTL has cultivated, which includes early-career and senior scholars committed to research and teaching excellence. He proposed incorporating periodic writing workshops and scholarly retreats into Makerere’s academic calendar to ensure that the momentum generated by CERTL’s initiatives continues to thrive. These activities would provide continued support for faculty development and scholarly collaboration.

In closing, Dr. Nabutanyi expressed his gratitude to the administrative team whose dedication has been instrumental in CERTL’s accomplishments. He acknowledged their hard work, which has enabled the smooth execution of workshops, conferences, and other activities. Dr. Nabutanyi concluded by reflecting on the transformative power of targeted funding and community building in the humanities, expressing optimism that the progress made through Mellon Foundation funding would inspire sustained engagement with the humanities at Makerere. He is confident that these proposed initiatives, including the creation of inclusivity modules, faculty orientations, and continued scholarly publications, will further solidify CERTL’s impact in the region.

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The College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) at Makerere University concluded its two day retreat with a strong call from Vice Chancellor for staff to engage deeply with university policies and collaborate across departments to address institutional challenges.

While representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ireeta Tumps who is also the Principal College of Natural Sciences emphasized the importance of aligning with the university’s vision to become a research-led institution.

“These gatherings are vital for us to make progress toward our vision for the next hundred years of Makerere,” said Prof. Ireeta. “Engagement and consultation among staff, management, and directors help us understand and implement policies that benefit the university at large.”

Prof. Ireeta highlighted the significance of understanding the “spirit behind policies,” urging staff at all levels to work together rather than in isolated silos. He noted that ongoing dialogue between staff and policymakers strengthens Makerere’s policy frameworks and fosters an environment of responsive and thoughtful decision-making.

The retreat covered essential training on Quality Assurance, financial policies, and research standards, along with discussions on staff etiquette and client service. Prof. Ireeta praised these sessions for giving participants a deeper understanding of expectations and opportunities to refine university practices. “This is a learning process for both staff and management,” he added. “We are committed to making sure this learning never stops as we advance toward our research-led vision.”

As Makerere seeks to enhance its graduate programs, Prof. Ireeta stressed the need to leverage the college’s human resources and to create an enabling environment that encourages research and efficiency. He commended CHUSS Principal Assoc.  Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala for her proactive leadership, citing her recent initiatives to set a research agenda, engage students, and involve support staff in university planning.

“I want to thank the principal for prioritizing these issues and for demonstrating the leadership we believe in at Makerere,” said Prof. Ireeta “Humanities are at the heart of the University, and this retreat shows our commitment to their enduring value.”

In closing, Prof.  Ireeta urged staff to continue working on key areas such as work ethics, time management, and interpersonal skills, which he identified as vital for institutional success. He expressed hope that these engagements will pave the way for a sustainable future for CHUSS and Makerere University as a whole.

Retreat Sets Strategic Way Forward to Improve Academic and Operational Efficiency at Makerere University

In an effort to streamline operations and boost academic outcomes, leaders and staff at Makerere University‘s College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) concluded their recent retreat with key proposals aimed at addressing logistical, staffing, and technological challenges.

 On November 1–2, 2024, CHUSS held a staff retreat at Nican Resort to foster dialogue on policies and work environments impacting staff well-being and daily functions.

The retreat featured presentations on e-timetabling and the biometric system by the Directorate of ICT Support (DICTS), discussions on higher degrees, examinations, and internship processes, as well as sessions on quality assurance and academic policy implementation by the Quality Assurance Directorate. The Directorate of Human Resources addressed human resource policies, while sessions on audit, accountability, and office etiquette aimed to enhance workplace standards.

In addition to formal discussions, team-building activities such as games and health walks were organized, creating an engaging atmosphere for staff collaboration and morale-boosting.

One major proposal was to designate a dedicated timetabling officer to prevent the scheduling conflicts that have previously disrupted classes and operations. “Someone must be responsible for this task, so we don’t repeat the scheduling chaos we’ve experienced this semester,” emphasized a participant, underscoring the need for defined roles in critical functions.

A team from the School of Psychology was assigned to investigate and provide solutions to university policies and address concerns over staff morale, in collaboration with the Grants Administration and Support Unit (GAMSU) and the Makerere Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF) Secretariat.

The retreat also prioritized enhancing recruitment and retention strategies for high-performing Makerere graduates. Leaders noted the irony of producing top students who, in turn, struggle to find positions within the institution. “It’s essential to implement policies that retain our top talent within Makerere, ensuring the continued quality of our programs,” said one official.

Operational efficiency improvements through e-system integration and training were also emphasized. Academic staff reported that while e-systems offer notable benefits, implementation issues and usability gaps hinder productivity. The proposal includes targeted training sessions and establishing a feedback loop for users to report and resolve system issues.

To address staffing gaps, participants suggested restoring recruitment at the teaching assistant level and allocating budgetary support for retirees mid-semester, ensuring academic continuity.

The retreat highlighted the need to empower and support custodial staff, particularly in providing security during evening classes, which often run until 10 p.m. Proposals included a review of housing allocation policies to prioritize residence for custodians and security officers, enhancing their ability to maintain campus security.

Additionally, broader adoption of ICT solutions was encouraged, including the expansion of the Academic Management Information System (ACMIS) for lecturers to record results directly, boosting accountability and efficiency. Biometric systems, widely discussed, are also expected to improve attendance and monitoring for non-faculty staff.

To better support students with disabilities, the retreat emphasized the need for a structural and academic strategy, such as hiring sign interpreters and establishing institutional mechanisms to address their needs. Academic staff require training to effectively work with a diverse student population, ensuring inclusivity.

Finally, participants called for a mindset shift within public service and policy-making bodies regarding the unique needs of academic institutions. There is a need to advocate for policies that recognize Makerere’s role as a premier research university rather than merely a ranking-driven institution. This approach includes consultations with international universities on best practices in retaining top academic talent without strictly adhering to rigid promotion requirements.

These proposals signify a commitment to operational and academic excellence at Makerere, focused on strategic improvements, supportive systems, and an inclusive environment for both staff and students.

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