Education
CEES Launches the MiSeT Project to Drive Socio-economic Transformation
Makerere University’s College of Education and External Studies (CEES) has officially launched the Mindset Change and Socio-economic Transformation from the People’s World (MiSeT) project, marking a significant milestone in the university’s efforts to promote social change and national development. The launch event, held at CEES, brought together a diverse group of academics, government officials, and community leaders to discuss the project’s goals and anticipated impact.
Dr. Achen Stella, a central figure in the MiSeT project, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to making the initiative possible. She praised the research team’s dedication and specifically thanked Dr. Fred Masagazi Masaazi for his pivotal role in securing the grant that brought the project to life. Dr. Achen also acknowledged the vital mentorship provided by the college principal, which has significantly bolstered the department’s growth and success. She further recognized Dr. Nabushawo Harriet, the Dean School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, for her encouragement in motivating staff to write research proposals, and thanked the organizing team for their efforts in ensuring the event’s success.
In her address, Dr. Nabushawo Harriet highlighted the transformative potential of the MiSeT project. “We are focused on shifting people’s ways of thinking, behaviors, and approaches to problem-solving,” she stated. “This shift is essential for achieving meaningful transformation and making a substantial impact on people’s lives.” She underscored the importance of long-term projects funded by the Research and Innovations Fund (RIF) and expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to conduct such impactful research. Dr. Nabushawo also mentioned the forthcoming publication funded by the principal, which will compile key findings from RIF-funded projects, serving as a valuable resource for future research and policymaking.
Professor Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, speaking at the event, emphasized the necessity of changing mindsets that hinder development. He stressed the importance of aligning the project’s goals with Uganda’s Vision 2040, which aims to achieve middle-income status. “To realize this vision, we must shift our mindset from what we already know to new, progressive ways of thinking,” Prof. Mugagga remarked. He also highlighted the role of social transformation, including parenting, in achieving this mindset change, and called for a deeper understanding of Uganda’s anthropological environment and the protection of cultural values.
Dr. Twine Bananuka provided an in-depth overview of the MiSeT project, explaining that the study aims to engage communities in the mindset change process. He outlined the project’s objectives, which include fostering a culture of productivity, value consciousness, and improved livelihoods. “Mindset change is a process, not an end in itself,” Dr. Bananuka noted, emphasizing that the ultimate goal is sustainable development and better lives for all.
Further elaborating on the project’s scope, Dr. Nampijja Dianah discussed the specific areas of research focus and the challenges encountered. The research will take place in Komamboga, Mpigi, and Bwaise, with a particular emphasis on overcoming barriers to community self-help initiatives. The Mayor of Mpigi Town Council expressed his support for the research and called for additional funding to ensure its continuity.
Professor Fred Masagazi Masaazi appealed to the government for increased funding, highlighting the need for continued support of impactful projects like MiSeT. He noted that the equipment purchased under the RIF grant belongs to the department and stressed the importance of translating research findings into policy briefs that can guide national strategies. Prof. Masagazi also emphasized ongoing support for Ph.D. students and their supervisors and pledged to establish a grants office at CEES to streamline future research initiatives.
Representing the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Ms. Imelda Kyalingabira commended Makerere University for its research efforts and its pivotal role in educating Ugandans. She noted that Uganda’s Vision 2040 emphasizes the need for mindset transformation as a pathway to economic growth. “This research is timely and will aid the transformation and development we seek,” she stated.
Ms. Kyalingabira also highlighted the ministry’s role in community mobilization and mindset change, noting their efforts in training community development officers and planners to support the implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM) and other mindset change initiatives. She expressed optimism that the MiSeT project would yield significant results and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working with Makerere University to improve communities across the country. The launch of the MiSeT project represents a pivotal moment in Makerere University’s ongoing efforts to drive social and educational transformation. As the project moves forward, the university, in collaboration with government and community partners, is well-positioned to make a lasting impact on Uganda’s journey toward sustainable development and national prosperity.
Over 240 students graduated with certificates and diplomas from the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) under the Love Binti Program, which offers training in fashion design and hairdressing.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony on December 13, 2024, Mr. Joseph Watuleke, the program coordinator at Makerere University, noted that while the program has provided free training for seven years, this year’s graduates were required to co-fund 50% of their tuition to ensure sustainability. Due to rising demand, the college introduced diploma-level training and plans to expand into other vocational courses.
Preparing Job Creators, Not Job Seekers
As the global focus shifts from creating job seekers to fostering job creators, graduates from the Love Binti Program expressed interest in pursuing higher education to enhance their qualifications. They called for universities to prioritize vocational courses at the degree level, citing the growing youth unemployment crisis.
“Universities are still producing job seekers, leaving many graduates unemployed due to a lack of practical skills,” said Mr. Moses Conrad Yesuanjagala, a fashion and design graduate. “If more students were enrolled in vocational training, they would be job-ready upon graduation.”
The students made this plea during the Love Binti International graduation ceremony held at Makerere University’s Rugby Grounds, where 244 students were conferred ordinary and advanced certificates in fashion and design.
Transforming Dreams into Reality
Since its founding in 2018, Love Binti International has graduated 1,930 students in Uganda in hairdressing and fashion design. Mr. Yesuanjagala, 53, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, sharing how his lifelong dream of becoming a fashion designer came true through the program.
“I’m a father of grown children, but I still pursued this knowledge because the skills are practical and marketable,” he said, urging universities to embrace vocational skilling.
Similarly, Ms. Sarah Apio, a fellow fashion and design graduate, called on her peers to pursue their passions fearlessly. “The world needs your unique perspective, talent, and passion. Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo and pursue your dreams,” she advised.
Institutional Support and Future Prospects
Dr. Jimmy Tibs Tumwesigye, representing the Department of Adult and Community Education at Makerere, emphasized the need for continuous skilling beyond formal education. He encouraged graduates to form groups and apply for government programs like the Parish Development Model and Emyooga for startup capital.
“Be our ambassadors and train at least five more people. That is how we build a skilled and self-reliant society,” he urged.
Dr. Harriet Nabushawo, Dean of the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, served as the guest of honor. She encouraged graduates to remain proactive, collaborate, and seek out new knowledge and designs online.
On behalf of Makerere University, Dr. Nabushawo pledged continued support for the program, which has been hosted at the university for seven years.
Founder’s Vision and Sustainability Plans
Ms. Elle Yang, founder and executive director of Love Binti International, shared her vision of empowering African men and women through vocational training to combat unemployment. Initially offering fully sponsored programs, she introduced a co-funding model this year due to rising enrollment.
“Instead of giving you fish, I wanted to teach you how to catch it. These skills, if used well, can change your life,” she affirmed.
December 11, 2024
Makerere University has embarked on a comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing the pedagogical and professional competencies of its academic staff. The inaugural training, organized by the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), was officially launched by Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza at Fairway Hotel. The training is facilitated by a team from the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (CTLS) at the College of Education and External Studies (CEES).
In his opening remarks, Prof. Buyinza emphasized the urgent need for retooling academic staff in light of emerging challenges such as artificial intelligence (AI) and evolving teaching technologies. “The digital era has reshaped how we teach and learn. We must equip our staff with the necessary pedagogical skills and ethical professionalism to remain at the forefront of higher education,” he said.
Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, one of the lead facilitators, highlighted that the training goes beyond teaching techniques, focusing on developing reflective and adaptive educators. “University teaching today demands more than subject expertise. It requires an intentional blend of pedagogical knowledge, ethical standards, and technological competence,” he remarked.
The University Pedagogy and Professionalism Course was designed in response to gaps identified in higher education teaching. According to the course guidelines, many academic staff possess deep subject-matter expertise but lack structured training in pedagogy and andragogy, essential for effective knowledge transfer.
Participants will engage in an intensive curriculum covering themes such as educational theory, professional ethics, teaching models, assessment strategies, and the integration of emerging technologies. The course, guided by the National Council for Higher Education’s strategic plan, aims to foster continuous professional development among university educators.
Prof. Buyinza concluded by reiterating Makerere University’s commitment to nurturing competent and ethically grounded educators. “This initiative reflects our dedication to academic excellence and our role in shaping the future of higher education in Uganda and beyond.”
The training is expected to run in phases, ensuring that all academic staff receive the essential skills needed to enhance the university’s teaching and learning environment.
The U.S Ambassador to Uganda William W. Popp, has called on institutions of higher learning to groom and shape active citizens. The ambassador was delivering a keynote address at the Annual Prof. William Senteza Kajubi Fulbright Memorial Lecture, held on Thursday October 3, 2024 at Makerere University’s Yusuf Lule Auditorium.
“Higher education is not just about earning degrees; it is about cultivating the skills and values that create active, engaged citizens who can contribute to a better world,” H.E. William W. Popp said.
Ambassador Popp emphasized the crucial role universities play in nurturing responsible citizens. By fostering debate, advocacy and governance participation, universities equip students with the tools needed for leadership in their communities and beyond. “Universities are essential for promoting civic participation, critical thinking, and informed citizenship—key components of a healthy democracy. A vibrant democracy relies on citizens who can engage constructively and peacefully with each other and their leaders,” he explained.
He elaborated on how universities contribute to civic education by offering courses in disciplines like political science, history, and sociology. These programs inform students about democratic systems, civil rights, and global issues, while also providing platforms for interaction with current and former political leaders, he said.
Ambassador Popp highlighted the importance of fostering critical thinking and debate. “By engaging in discussions around complex issues, students learn to form informed opinions and engage in responsible democratic discourse.” He noted that universities empower individuals through education, internships, and student councils, laying the groundwork for active and informed citizenship. “History shows that universities are incubators of social movements, where students challenge the status quo and advocate for policies that benefit society.”
Panel discussants
Dr. Pamela Tibihikirra-Kalyegira, Director of the Law Development Centre, reinforced these points by outlining three core roles of universities: teaching, applied research, and community engagement. “We must reflect on how well we are fulfilling these responsibilities,” she urged, encouraging students to adopt a lifelong learning mindset and recognize that no one can know everything.
Dr. Ruth Biyinzika, Coordinator of the GROW Project at the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), shared insights on various opportunities available to students that can help them navigate their career paths. She also called on parents to actively engage in shaping their children’s educational journeys before they transition to higher education institutions.
In honoring the legacy of Prof. Senteza Kajubi, Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe praised him as one of Uganda’s most influential educationists. A two-time Vice Chancellor and the first Fulbright from Uganda, Prof. Kajubi opened doors for many African students to benefit from the Fulbright scholarship. Prof. Nawangwe recalled his personal friendship with Kajubi, highlighting the wisdom he gained from him.
During Uganda’s struggle with the HIV/AIDS epidemic, Prof. Kajubi played a pivotal role in establishing a partnership between Makerere University and Case Western Reserve University in the U.S., which helped train staff to manage the crisis. “The first COVID-19 testing kits we received at Mulago Hospital were donated by Case Western Reserve University—400,000 free kits,” noted Prof. Nawangwe, emphasizing the enduring impact of Prof. Kajubi’s contributions to Makerere University and Uganda.
Through these discussions, the lecture underscored the vital role of higher education in not only developing individual capabilities but also fostering a more engaged and informed citizenry, ultimately contributing to a stronger democracy.
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