Humanities & Social Sciences
Mak Luminaries Call for the Promotion of Humanities & Literature in Uganda’s Education System for a Balanced Citizenry with Human & Moral Values
Makerere University Literary legends Prof. Arthur Gakwandi and Austin Bukenya have commended government effort in promoting Natural sciences and building the middle class economy with reservations.
Whereas promotion of natural sciences is backed by good intentions, the professors contend that downgrading humanities and social sciences will result into a population without human and moral values.
They proposed that ,for holistic human development, both natural, humanistic and social sciences must be promoted.
The two professors were speaking during their 80th Birthday on 5th April 2024 at Makerere University‘s Yusuf Lule Auditorium. The Department of Literature in collaboration with the School of Languages Literature and Communication and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences organised a half day literary event codenamed: Celebrating Literary Legends: Gakwandi and Bukenya@80 aimed at recognizing, celebrating and debating these two literary legends as part of Makerere’s literary luminaries that have contributed to her indisputable literary iconicity. Arthur Gakwandi and Austin Bukenya are seminal writers and literary scholars in Makerere University and Uganda’s history, widely celebrated beyond Uganda’s borders.
Reflecting on the Ugandan Society for the years he has lived and where the country is heading, Prof. Arthur Gakwandi noted that Government has focused and made progress in expanding the middle income class. He however noted that no one is concerned about the kind of middle class being created.
“I see people driving huge land cruisers on the highway and they lower window screens and throw bottles and banana peelings in the middle of the road. This is the middle class. I see people having a lot of money but peddling conspiracy theories, exchanging insults. Is that the kind of middle class we want? Gakwandi wondered adding that:
“So we are racing to improve the economy, introduce science by giving further incentives but Ubuntu which is the oil that creates the society, the personal relationship between people is lacking. I see people building walls around themselves and people do not know each other and only interact with money.” Gakwandi stated
Gakwandi expressed fear that the country is creating a middle class that does not serve people.
The middle class, he said is supposed to balance between the rich indulgences and lack of concern by those who are privileged on one hand, and those at the bottom who have no voice and are trapped in poverty. But if we have a middle class that does not play that role, then it’s not serving its society.
Prof. Gakwandi justified the unique power of the humanities and social sciences – Literature inclusive.
The unique power of literature according to Prof. Gakwandi is to enable readers to enter the lives of other people to experience their pain, their pleasures , their ambitions and their fantasies which, no other discipline comes close to.
“History can tell you how many people died in the 2nd world war, who were the principal actors and their roles in determining the outcomes. Even science can tell you the role of technology, the role it played in tilting the balance and economics can assess the impact of the war on economies of the countries.
But none of these can convey the personal anguish of the people who were caught up in various localities during the phases of the war, but, a novelist can capture the impact of the social and emotional life of those who were caught in the war. And when you get emotionally connected to people, you stop regarding them as statistics. So it is important to make Literature an important element of our education system and promote literature as a life-long source of leisure that has the ability to connect”, Gakwandi stressed.
Prof Gakwandi commended the department of Literature for the recognition and courteous relationship nurtured over the years.
“What is most touching is that I keep reading the Ugandan newspapers about people fighting for office, jobs, undermining each other and trying to exclude others so as to take their positions. What has been good at the Literature department where I have spent so many years is that we had such a good courteous relationship with each other and myself, I left the department three times and every time I came back, they were happy to welcome me back. There was no rivalry, no competition…” He added
He saluted the leadership of literature department for thinking about this kind of occasion to recognise the contribution made to the growth of the department adding that he feels gratified that people that he taught have ascended to levels of professors.
Humanities are being systematically degraded, ignored and underfunded – Prof. Austin Bukenya
Prof Austin Bukenya observed that the humanities are being systematically degraded, ignored and underfunded.
“We have to mount a certain fight to keep the humanities on the front path. We write not simply to pleasure ourselves but we write in order to sustain and develop society.
Bukenya called for respect of humanities and social sciences if the country is to produce a civilised middle class population.
“The sciences are going to help us advance technically and economically but they are not going to help advance humanity –the Ubuntu. Please, make humanities including literature visible, desirable and acceptable.
Philosophy teaches you to think. Language teaches you how to communicate and literature teaches you how to feel and those are the processes of humanisation. We need a human society not just a country of mechanical robots”, Prof Bukenya appealed and dismissed as false the reasoning that humanities and social sciences are unemployable.
Offering guidance on how to make lives worthwhile, Prof Austin Bukenya advised participants to have passion, love and faith.
“Be driven and have passion for things that you care and feel strongly about and they will keep you going. Secondly love yourself and other people. But if you don’t love yourself, you can’t love other people and you will have low esteem. Everybody has something to contribute to your being and thirdly, have faith and believe in yourself and others especially the potential in other people to do good”, These, Bukenya said kept him going and loving his students
Vice Chancellor honors Gakwandi and Bukenya as unrivalled class of academics
Presiding over the function as Chief guest, the Vice Chancellor represented by his Deputy in charge of Academic Affairs Assoc. Prof. Umar Kakumba hailed the Department of Literature for making it part of their vision and aim to celebrate the people that have built for the future, describing the initiative as a great part of the ubuntu philosophy, to share the joy and achievements of those who have gone before them, and working toward inspiring the future generation.
“Their achievements outshine most of us, but also remind us that the academic journey ahead many of us is something we ought to take in order to be like they are or even greater than they are. After all, the latter generation must build on what they have found ”, Kakumba stated
He said the nature of scholarship these two gentlemen nurtured serve as a reminder of the centrality of both the literary and creative arts to human development and humanity.
“While we read stories about the characters they have created, we are reminded of our situation in the world, and how important it is to see the human being as the focus of our relationships. I am sure the students’ performances will not only entertain us, but will awaken us to the truth about our being in a world that needs healing, laughter and celebration. This is what we do in Africa when we celebrate people. This is what makes CHUSS and the Department of Literature unique”, Kakumba emphasized adding that:
“Bukenya and Gakwandi belong to a class of academics that are unrivalled. Having shared them with the world, both in academia and diplomatic service shows that Makerere truly takes its place on the world map. I have heard what they have studied and dedicated their lives to, showing that we have played in a role in building both theory and practice of the literary arts.
This is a journey that many of us ought to take. What they have built, we must build further and never let die. Orature is a central field of study in the Department of Literature. Seeing the man who gave it its breath seated here with us is not only awe-striking, but humbling. That is what makes the academy an amazing place”.
“Today, as we celebrate these two legends, we are reminded of our place in the twenty first century. We give due honor to the people that played a part in making the academy a place where debates and conversations about life start and keep happening. It must not end here. It is a tradition we must continue. This is what keeps our disciplines alive”, The Vice Chancellor lauded
Gakwandi and Bukenya make life real – Prof. Josephine Ahikire
The Ag. Principal College of Humanities and Social Sciences Prof. Josephine Ahikire described the day as an occasion to celebrate the practitioners of life, for this is what Literature is about.
“Literary legends like Gakwandi and Bukenya make life real or like our students say “ They make life tick”, because they talk about, reminisce, reflect, debate, analyse, comment and simultaneously live life. In short they bring life to life”. She said
In 2022, Ahikire reported that the Department of Literature celebrated the lives of literary giants: Rubadiri, Ngugi and Wangusa but that time each icon had a separate platform. This time round in 2024, she explained, the department decided to reinvent its style and try out a double portion approach celebrating Prof Gakwandi and Prof Bukenya on the same afternoon.
“This afternoon the College of Humanities and Social Sciences is sitting at the feet of two literary legends to show strongly the great heritage we are so very proud of. Prof Gakwandi and Prof Bukenya have nurtured the Department of Literature and its sister departments through challenging times.
They carried out the work of sustaining the name of this university through the Amin years and at some point the situation was so tense that they had to leave or they would have been lost in the mist of violence. We are grateful for their resilience, prudence and for their courage as well as for always living for Makerere and Uganda even for the times when they were far away from here”, the principals appreciated.
Prof. Ahikire also stated that this event put the student community at the centre of the celebration so that they understand the importance of pillars. The literary scholar Ngugi wa Thiong’o keeps insiting that all scholars that use the term orature to talk about Africa’s wealth of verbal arts should acknowledge that Pio Zirimu and his student Austin Bukenya while here at Makerere University coined the term which is being used world wide.
“We celebrate Prof Gakwandi in equal measure and acknowledge the foundational work he carried out in demonstrating how the African novel was relevant to contemporary experience and building a base for African literary criticism from the perspective of an African critic. We also take particular note of the work he has done in the field of creative writing as a mentor and a creative writer himself,” Ahikire stressed.
She was hopeful that students will look with pride and admiration to Gakwandi and Bukenya’s unique and time-tested efforts and choose to continue Makerere’s vibrant legacy of ‘building for the future’.
Prof Gakwandi and Mwalimu Bukenya are crucial pillars – Assoc. Prof. Saudah Namyalo
The Dean, School of Languages, Literature and Communication Assoc. Prof. Saudah Namyalo said, the school was proud to present two courageous voices whose academic and creative work embarks on journeys that crisscross from the real world to the imaginative and from the imaginative to the real world to teach the values of being fully human.
“As a school, we are proud to celebrate two eminent literary critics and creative writers in Makerere University and Uganda’s history. Prof Gakwandi is widely known for his novel Kosiya Kifefe and its ideas on colonial and post independence experiences and for grappling with thoughts on the transitions between the city and the village, poverty and privilege. Prof. Gakwandi both as a literary critic and creative writer has demonstrated that stories and their analysis keep us connected to our communities but also make us aware of human folly” the Dean stated.
In Mwalimu Bukenya, the Dean explained that school was celebrating a man who has been hailed as a true East African, who is at home in all East Africa, and is claimed as belonging to the whole region.
“In fact sometimes our Kenyan siblings do point out that the man’s name has the word Kenya in it so he truly belongs to Kenya even by name. When he speaks Kiswahili the Tanzanians turn and tell us to send their brother back home. When Makerere Counts the years he has served here, they feel justified to say that his roots are indeed here. So the school is proud to name you, Mwalimu, among its own and to celebrate you on Makerere grounds, your first academic home”. Said Namyalo.
She thanked the Department of Literature for giving a chance to students to recognize the achievements of those before them, so that they too can be inspired to craft brave new worlds to insist that the study of humanity is valuable and priceless.
Gakwandi and Bukenya opened my academic career – Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi
The Head Department of Literature Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi thanked Prof Gakwandi and Mwalimu Bukenya for giving the university this honor to celebrate them.
Nabutanyi expressed gratitude to the Vice Chancellor for making time to celebrate with the department and for continuously heeding to the department call.
The head also thanked the Dean and Principal for untiring support to the department given the numerous activities they engage in. Nabutanyi extended appreciation to Chair organizing committee for the successful organization of the event.
Dr. Nabutanyi introduced and thanked outstanding members of staff who have won national and international awards to show the genealogy of great work that the department of Literature has produced. He said the winners stand on the shoulders of the giants like Gakwandi and Bukenya being celebrated for their great work.
The two celebrated gentlemen according to Edgar Nabutanyi are important in his life.
“In mid 2000s I was assigned Prof. Bukenya as my supervisor for MA and during those days, I was young and thought I was clever and I had an exaggerated sense of what I could do as a dissertation. I told him I wanted to read the African Novel using the architype theory. He spent ten minutes explaining what architype were and recommended Prof. Gakwandi’s book and the novel – Contemporary experiences in Africa.
This, in a way opened my academic career and a few years later, Prof. Abasi Kiyimba during my defense of my thesis commended me for having done good work and mastered not only the theory but also the area”. He narrated
Dr. Nabutanyi continued to attribute his success to the two celebrated professors citing that during his teaching career at O-level, his student nicknamed him Kifefe in shortened form as Kife and the name is still popular with students he taught that time.
He said the two, Gakwandi and Bukenya have been influential expressing hope and pledged that the new crop of students will live to the good works that these elders have done.
He thanked Prof. Gakwandi and Bukenya for gracing the corridors of the literature department and doing the wonderful work. He also extended gratitude to their families for sharing with them.
The Chair Organising committee thanked all participants and the Gakwandi and Bukenya family for gracing the occasion.
Kiguli recognized the efforts by the committee in providing the forum to promote critical debate and advance awareness of homegrown talent and outstanding service to humanity beyond Makerere’s century of existence.
Kiguli described Prof. Austin Bukenya as an orator who speaks many many languages fluently while Prof Arthur Gawandi as widely travelled and one who has met and dined with great writers.
In the spirit of continually drawing attention to our own work and accomplishments at Makerere University, the Department of Literature showcased oral performances from the students, readings, a keynote address by Prof. Abasi kiyimba and a panel discussion of Gakwandi and Bukenya Scholars.
Most of the activities of the day were carried out by students from the Department of Literature in a bid to inspire them to think of the importance of following the work of our own scholars and practitioners. This effort aims at focusing on Gakwandi and Bukenya’s monumental achievements and promoting creative writing, critical debate and cultural production within Makerere University, Uganda and beyond.
The Keynote lecture by Prof. Abasi Kiyimba is downloadable below.
More readings below:
Makerere Celebrates Literary Titans: Gakwandi and Bukenya in Newvision: https://www.newvision.co.ug/category/education/makerere-celebrates-literary-titans-gakwandi-NV_185062
Mak set to honor Gakwandi and Bukenya @80:
https://chuss.mak.ac.ug/news/mak-set-celebrate-literary-legends-gakwandi-and-bukenya80-0
Gakwandi and a few rebels of Ugandan literature Wednesday, April 03, 2024: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/columnists/charles-onyango-obbo/gakwandi-and-a-few-rebels-of-ugandan-literature-4576498
Makerere Honors Professors Arthur And Austin For Their Contribution To Literature. Church of Uganda Family TV: https://youtu.be/oe5YW_an2vc?si=oQVnbg3v-fC4Pcdt
Makerere Professor Bukenya and Gakwandi honored. Beg TV: https://youtu.be/z-UhZ1ekgyg?si=Zgajf3dWqrnwjLM-
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 15th 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.
Humanities & Social Sciences
Council Chair Calls for Integration of CERTL Initiatives into University Processes
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.
Humanities & Social Sciences
CHUSS Retreat Concludes: VC Urges Staff to Embrace Policy Vision and Collaborative Solutions
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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