General
Strengthening Partnerships: Makerere University Welcomes Delegation from Western University, Ontario, Canada
By Carol Kainomugisha
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the University Management, welcomed a delegation from Western University, Ontario, Canada (UWO), marking an important milestone in the strengthening of international partnerships and collaborations. The week-long visit, characterized by insightful discussions and exchanges with various colleges, departments and units of the University, highlighted various areas of mutual interest and potential collaboration between the two esteemed institutions.
The delegation was led by President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Alan Shepard and accompanied by Vice-Provost and Associate Vice-President, Dr. Lily Cho, the Associate Vice-President, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, Dr. Opiyo Oloya and the Dean, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Dr. John Yoo.
The visit culminated with the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which will most certainly strengthen the already existing relationship between Makerere University and Western University.
The meeting between Makerere University and Western University commenced with the University Management which discussed collaborative opportunities, particularly in engineering, design, and technology, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Mr. Opio Oloya addressed issues of Inclusivity and diversity in academia, focusing on integrating indigenous knowledge, combating global anti-blackness, and promoting social integration within university communities.
Makerere‘s academic excellence and capacity-building initiatives were showcased, with plans to expand graduate training opportunities and enhance capacity through student and faculty exchanges.
The meeting concluded with a shared vision for future collaborations, including research projects, academic programs, and student exchanges, reaffirming the commitment to fostering excellence and addressing global challenges through collaborative efforts.
Fostering Global Academic Partnerships: Western University meets Makerere University Colleges and Units.
In a meeting at the School of Law, led by the Principal, Associate Prof. Ronald Naluwairo, the delegation held lengthy deliberations to explore avenues for academic collaboration, embodying the power of international partnerships in academia.
Central to the dialogue was Western University’s interest in global engagement, particularly in internationalization, aligning with Makerere‘s ethos of interdisciplinary collaboration. The meeting highlighted joint research opportunities, staff, and student mobility programs, showcasing a commitment to academic excellence and the potential for cross-cultural learning and growth.
During the meeting between the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) and Western University, the Executive Director Dr. Andrew Kambugu outlined IDI’s evolution from an academic venture to a multifaceted institution driving service delivery, research, and capacity building in Africa.
Highlighting existing partnerships, particularly in data management with the Faculty of Medicine at Western University, President Alan Shepard underscored the tangible outcomes of cross-border collaboration, with data-driven research initiatives making significant contributions to healthcare and public health interventions. Future collaboration prospects, including exchange programs, joint initiatives, and equipment donations, emphasized a shared commitment to innovative approaches and collaborative problem-solving to address pressing challenges in Africa.
Celebrating Collaboration: Farewell Luncheon Honoring Western University Delegation
A farewell luncheon, hosted by Mrs. Lorna Magara, the Chairperson, Makerere University Council, marked the poignant conclusion of the exchange visit with Western University, Ontario, Canada, celebrating the enduring spirit of collaboration and friendship between the two institutions.
As farewells were exchanged, participants left with cherished memories and a renewed commitment to nurturing the partnership for future endeavors, underscoring the power of collaboration to transcend boundaries and create opportunities for growth and learning.
As Western University and Makerere University look ahead, the memories of the week-long strategic visit will serve as a beacon of inspiration, guiding their continued efforts to collaborate, learn, and grow together.
Makerere University has once again cemented its place as a regional leader in academic excellence after successfully hosting the East African Universities Debate Championships (EAUDC) 2026, welcoming the continent’s brightest young minds for a week of intellectual competition, cultural exchange, and leadership development.
Held from 26th July to 1st August 2026, the championship brought together more than 200 student debaters, adjudicators and delegates from 25 universities across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan and other invited institutions, transforming the Ivory Tower into East Africa’s premier arena for ideas, innovation and public discourse.
The week-long tournament featured rigorous British Parliamentary debate rounds, public speaking competitions, adjudication workshops and networking sessions designed to sharpen critical thinking, leadership and persuasive communication. Participants debated contemporary issues ranging from governance and economic transformation to technology, public health, climate change and Africa’s future.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Deputy Vice Chancellor welcomed delegates to Makerere University, emphasizing the institution’s enduring commitment to nurturing graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also capable of leading meaningful conversations that shape society. The championship reflected Makerere’s vision of producing graduates who are innovative, analytical and prepared to address regional and global challenges.
Beyond competition, EAUDC 2026 became a celebration of East African unity. Delegates experienced Uganda’s rich cultural heritage through social events, campus tours and cultural showcases that fostered friendships beyond national borders. The interactions reinforced the championship’s belief that dialogue remains one of the strongest foundations for regional integration and peaceful cooperation.
The tournament concluded with an electrifying Grand Finale witnessed by students, alumni, university leaders, invited guests and debate enthusiasts. The Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Education and Sports Hon. Eng. Cuthbert Abigaba represented the Speaker of Parliament as the Guest of Honour. In his remarks he congratulated Makerere University on the successful event and encouraged debate among students.
Prof Sarah Ssali the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs at Makerere University pledged continuous support from the administration towards Makerere Debate Union. Teams demonstrated exceptional research, analytical reasoning and eloquence before a distinguished panel of international adjudicators, bringing to a close one of the most competitive editions of the championship.
The successful hosting of EAUDC 2026 marks another milestone in Makerere University‘s growing reputation as a centre of excellence for debating and public speaking. The event builds on the university’s long-standing tradition of producing outstanding debaters while providing students with opportunities to engage with peers from across the region in meaningful intellectual exchange.
As the championship drew to a close, participants departed Kampala with new friendships, stronger networks and renewed inspiration to continue using debate as a tool for leadership, democratic participation and social transformation.
With the East African chapter successfully concluded, attention now turns to the Pan-African Universities Debating Championship (PAUDC) 2026, where Makerere University will once again represent East Africa on the continental stage.
-
General3 hours agoUndergraduate Admission Lists 2026/2027
-
General6 days agoFreshers’ Joining Instructions 2026/2027
-
General7 days agoAdmission Lists for Postgraduate Programmes 2026/27
-
General1 week agoMakerere University Welcomes 2026/2027 Freshers
-
General7 days agoProf. Ssali makes strong case for Minutes Writing as MakWC Holds Staff Training