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Freshers tipped on academic excellence, finances, career development, Emerging Leaders Program

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By Gerald Ochwo

On 5th August, 2024, the Office of the Academic Registrar, organized a Central Orientation briefing for all the freshmen and women of the 2024/2025 Academic Year intake. The orientation briefing provides a central platform where the newly admitted students are taken through a wide range of issues that directly relate to their day-to-day lives by various officials at the University. Held at the Freedom Square, this year’s orientation attracted the participation of thousands of Ugandan and International students.

In his welcome remarks, the Academic Registrar, who also doubles as the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor, in-charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, congratulated the students upon successfully going through the rigorous admission process of Makerere University, where only the best are admitted. He noted that Makerere University is still among the few prestigious and most admired higher institutions of learning on the African continent and beyond. He signaled to the new students that their arrival at Makerere University was the beginning of a new chapter in their life, where they will now have the opportunity to determine the next direction and course of their lives. 

With regard to Academic life, Prof. Buyinza assured the students that Makerere University will provide all learning opportunities, where the students will get to learn new things, acquire new knowledge, and grow new competencies that will equip and shape their character as they become reliable and grounded professionals.

“We want you to achieve your academic and personal potential, to develop networks of friends, new interests and life skills. In order to achieve this we recommend that you work hard; find time to relax; and make use of the support services that are available to you.”~ said Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi.

He emphasized that academic success can only be attained by students when they avoid certain lifestyles and choices such as; moving with huge sums of money and moving late in the nights. Prof. Buyinza advised that they should instead abide by the university policies and guidelines, as well as prioritize enrollment and timely registration.

Students of the Academic Year 2024/2025 intake, listening to the presentation by the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs)/Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. Freshers Orientation for Academic Year 2024/2025, 5th August 2024. Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Students of the Academic Year 2024/2025 intake, listening to the presentation by the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs)/Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi.

In his concluding remarks, the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs) and Academic Registrar, called upon the new students to avoid distractors, always focus on what brought them to Makerere University, be good time managers, exploit their talents, map out their future careers, embrace diversity and take good care of themselves. He reiterated the University’s commitment to provide an intellectually and socially vibrant environment for academic excellence, provided the students on their part observe good finance management of their tuition.

“In you, I see vibrant young people with a lot of energy and enthusiasm. I hope that you will use the energy you have to your best for the benefit of yourselves and humanity. We want you to thrive and succeed here, academically, socially and personally.”~ Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi noted.

In his communication, the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, who also represented the Vice-Chancellor at the event, took a moment to unveil the ‘Emerging Leaders Program’, a campaign being championed by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni. The program focuses on promoting and cultivating a safe and healthy mindset change amongst young people, including University students. He noted that the core objectives of the program are to empower tomorrow’s future leaders in achieving; a sexually fortified youth, an addiction free generation, financially faithful and education focused. The Emerging leaders program is being implemented jointly by the Advancement Office under the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and the Students’ Guild Office. The program is currently running an open fair campaign at the Freedom Square for one week, to raise awareness among the first year students on; HIV Counselling, Testing and Treatment, Life skills, Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) and Pregnancy prevention, counselling, and mentorship among others.

Prof. Alinatiwe reiterated Prof. Buyinza’s message on finance management. He noted that a number of students receive tuition from parents/guardians but instead choose to divert it into other activities with the hope of realizing a multiplier effect. He emphasized that this vice has over the years landed a number of students into problems including dropping out of the University. He further added that the University will not hesitate to cancel all the provisional admissions of those students who will not have registered within the first two (2) weeks of the semester as stipulated by the Freshers’ Joining Instructions.

“I want to stress the issue of fees and tuition payment. Please note that it is only after you have fully registered with the University, that you will be regarded as a bonafide student of Makerere University. Those of you who are still having tuition and you are pondering on when to pay, after this orientation briefing, please go and bank the tuition. The temptation of diverting that money into other unproductive ventures is so high”~ Prof. Alinaitwe advised.

The Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe. Freshers Orientation for Academic Year 2024/2025, 5th August 2024. Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe.

He concluded by congratulating the students upon their admission and reminding them that at the University, there is no central bell and therefore, personal time management is entirely an individual responsibility. Prof. Alinaitwe further urged the students to make all the necessary inquiries on academic related issues within the College structures.

“In case you have academic related issues, go to the Principal or Deputy Principal, the College Registrar or School Dean. Avoid finding yourselves on the wrong side of the law and other cases of indiscipline, which could eventually lead to your expulsion from the University,” Prof. Alinaitwe cautioned. 

The central orientation briefing was also attended by the current Guild President, H.E. Lubega Nsamba and his Guild cabinet. The Guild President emphasized that Makerere University was the best place for each student to realize their potential and that they should take advantage of it. He noted further that this is the time for the students to start putting their life desires into practice.

“I implore you all to start putting in practice what you intend to become. I personally, got elected into the Office of the Guild President just after 2 semesters of my study. This is because Makerere University provided me with a platform to start practicing what my heart had desired for many years. You too can become the Nsamba of tomorrow” ~ the Guild President said.

Guild President H.E. Lubega Nsamba (holding microphone) in the company of some of the members of the Guild Cabinet. Freshers Orientation for Academic Year 2024/2025, 5th August 2024. Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Guild President H.E. Lubega Nsamba (holding microphone) in the company of some of the members of the Guild Cabinet.

The Dean of Students, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, encouraged the students to maximize their stay at Makerere University by engaging in meaningful practices including games and sports. She informed the students that the Office of the Dean of students, is in-charge of the students general welfare including, meals, accommodation, and the places of worship. She also informed the students on the new initiatives that have been spearheaded by the Office of the Dean of Students such as; the creation of the Disability Support Unit, which is currently situated in the Frank Kalimunzu, Central Teaching Facility. She added that a desk has also been created under the Students Work Scheme. This scheme, she said, supports students in job placement and skills enhancements.

Dean of Students Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli (holding microphone), accompanied by Wardens of the various Halls of Residence. Freshers Orientation for Academic Year 2024/2025, 5th August 2024. Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dean of Students Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli (holding microphone), accompanied by Wardens of the various Halls of Residence.

Other Units of the University that participated at this year’s orientation briefing included, the University Library that was represented by the University Librarian, Dr. Ruth Nalumaga. She called upon students to register with the Makerere University Main Library and the College Libraries in order to be able to access Library services, and urged them to attend the Library orientation sessions set to start this week.

The University Hospital officials equally encouraged the students to register with the hospital in order to access the services that are provided at the University including safe male circumcision.

From the University Guidance and Counseling Center, the Manager, Mr. Henry Nsubuga, advised students to seek counseling at the centre as often as the need may arise. The students also received further tips from the Principal Games Tutor, Ms. Peninah Kabenge, who shared with the students on the different Games and Sports activities that the University Offers and encouraged them to visit and register with the sports Office. She also encouraged the students to participate in the forthcoming #MakRun2024, scheduled to take place on the 18th August, 2024, at the Freedom Square, Makerere University.

Representing the University Bursar, Mr. Evarist. Bainomugisha, Mrs. Jackie Ayorekire, advised the new students to get enroll on the ACMIS system and generate a Payment Reference Number (PRN) and pay tuition on time. She cautioned them on the University fees policy and the need to follow to the dot the policy.

Fees payment is due on the first day of your arrival at the university. Please make time and pay tuition on time and avoid having excuses at the time of examination. Remember you are only regarded a student of Makerere University after you have been registered. No student is registered without tuition payment” ~ Mrs. Ayorekire said.

The Chief Security Officer, ACP Musani Michael Sabila cautioned the students to avoid bandwagons and always remember that they came to the University alone and therefore, any unlawful activities that they participate in will have individual repercussions.

“Please abstain from unlawful activities like strikes, demonstrations and riots on campus. I also caution you to avoid coming back to campus during night hours. The Gates of Makerere University are closed by mid-night and no one is allowed to come into the campus by that time” remarked ACP Sabila.

Mr. Samuel Mugabi, the Director Directorate for ICT Support (DICTS), urged the students to quickly open University email accounts in order to access university electronic services such as internet and e-learning materials. He noted that DICTS provides assistance on all issues related to enrolment, registration and examination permits among others. In the same vein, Mr. Arthur Moses Opio in-charge of End User Support, encouraged the students to reach out to DICTS through the twitter handle: @DICTSMakerere  and the Academic Registrar’s Twitter handle: @MakerereAR and via helpme@dicts.mak.ac.ug and the Main University Twitter handles.

Representing Gender mainstreaming, Ms. Suzan Mbabazi, urged the fresh students to be aware of sexual harassment and report any form of such vices to the relevant offices including, the Directorate of Gender Mainstreaming situated at the Senate Building, Level 4. She encouraged the students to acquaint themselves with the Makerere University Policy and Regulations against Sexual Harassment including the Anti-Sexual Harassment Policy.

Makerere University has the Anti-Sexual Harassment Policy which clearly defines ground that constitutes sexual harassment and the same policy, provides in details on whom you should contact and where to go in case you are harassed”~ she said.

Students listen to Ms. Susan Mbabazi (back to camera). Freshers Orientation for Academic Year 2024/2025, 5th August 2024. Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Students listen to Ms. Susan Mbabazi (back to camera).

Gerald Ochwo is the Senior Assistant Registrar in–Charge of Communications & Liaison Office of the Academic Registrar

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Vice Chancellor Updates Media on Medical Drones, Road Safety Research & Various Issues

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Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (Centre) with Dr. Andrew Kambugu (Left) and Dr. Fredrick Oporia (Right) at the Press Briefing on 29th May 2025. Press Conference featuring Infectious Diseases Institute—the IDI Medical Drone Programme and Kampala Status Summary 2023 on Road Safety Risk Factors, conducted under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety. This collaborative effort between the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and our Trauma, Injury, and Disability Unit (TRIAD) Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH), Senior Common Room, Main Builing, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi on Thursday 29th May, 2025 held a press conference to update members of the Media on the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) Medical Drone Programme, and the Kampala Status Summary 2023 on Road Safety Risk Factors, conducted under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety, a collaborative effort between the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and the Trauma, Injury, and Disability (TRIAD) Unit at Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH). Also presented were updates on; Digital Certification of Academic Transcripts, Digital Supervision of Graduate Students, Inclusive e-Learning and Smart Classrooms, and Launch of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Laboratory at the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS).

The event held in the Senior Common Room, Main Building, was on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe presided over by the Acting (Ag.) DVC AA and substantive Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. Presentations were made by Executive Director of the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Dr. Andrew Kambugu and Head of the Trauma, Injuries, and Disability (TRIAD) Unit, Dr. Fredrick Oporia. Dr. Jimmy Osuret and Dr. Esther Bayiga from TRIAD supplemented Dr. Oporia’s presentation. In attendance were; the Director for ICT Support (DICTS)-Mr. Samuel Mugabi, Deputy Chief – Public Relations-Ms. Betty Kyakuwa, Deputy Chief Security Officer-Mr. Musa Mulindwa and other university officials.

The proceedings of the Press Conference follow below;

Vice Chancellors’ Press Statement

Good morning colleagues, members of the press,

It is my pleasure to welcome you to this important media briefing, where we share compelling findings from two groundbreaking studies that reflect Makerere University‘s ongoing commitment to impactful research, innovation, and community transformation.

The first is a pioneering initiative led by the Infectious Diseases Institute—the IDI Medical Drone Programme. This project explores the use of drone technology to deliver lifesaving HIV medications and test samples to hard-to-reach populations, particularly in Kalangala District and the West Nile region. The study demonstrates how drones can overcome logistical barriers, reduce costs, and enhance access to critical healthcare in some of Uganda’s most underserved communities.

The second study is the Kampala Status Summary 2023 on Road Safety Risk Factors, conducted under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety. This collaborative effort between the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and our Trauma, Injury, and Disability Unit here at Makerere University presents over two years of data on vehicle speed and helmet use in Kampala. It provides vital insights into the human behaviours and systemic gaps contributing to road traffic injuries and fatalities—particularly among vulnerable road users. The study also offers evidence-based recommendations for enforcement, planning, and public health messaging aimed at making Kampala’s roads safer for all.

We are proud to support this kind of research that not only advances knowledge but also drives tangible improvements in public health and safety.

Before I invite the researchers to present their findings, allow me to briefly highlight some transformative developments in the areas of academic registry and ICT advancement here at Makerere University:

  1. Digital Certification of Academic Transcripts:
    • Alumni can now certify their transcripts digitally through the Makerere Academic Records System (Mak-ARS https://makars.mak.ac.ug/), eliminating the need for physical visits. This user-friendly platform allows access from anywhere in the world, supported by comprehensive video tutorials and public communications.
  2. Digital Supervision of Graduate Students
    • We have introduced the Research Information Management System (Mak-RIMS), piloted at the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, to streamline the supervision of Master’s and PhD research. This initiative enhances accountability, timely feedback, and is now being rolled out university-wide to improve graduation rates.
  3. Inclusive eLearning and Smart Classrooms
    • Through support from development partners and the Government of Uganda, we are establishing multimedia studios and smart classrooms across our colleges. These state-of-the-art facilities are designed to produce professional, accessible learning content, including tools tailored for students with visual and auditory disabilities. This aligns with our goal of equitable, globally competitive education.
  4. Launch of the AI Laboratory at CoCIS:
    • The newly launched Artificial Intelligence Laboratory will spearhead the development of AI-enabled solutions tailored to Uganda’s socio-economic needs, including localized assistive eLearning tools and context-sensitive curriculum development.

These initiatives are part of our broader vision to transform Makerere University into a research-led, inclusive, and globally relevant institution.

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Prof. Aina Visits Mak, Evaluates CECAP II Progress

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Prof. Omotade Akin Aina (Left) receives the Makerere Souvenir Book from Prof. Tonny Oyana as Prof. Julius Kikooma (2nd Right) and Mr. Charles Lwanga (Right) witness. Prof. Omotade Akin Aina-Carnegie Corporation of New York meeting to discuss progress of Consolidating Early Career Academics Programme (CECAP) phase II, which focuses on fostering academic development and research among early-career academics, 23rd May 2025, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Senior Program Director, Higher Education and Research in Africa, International Program, Carnegie Corporation of New York, Prof. Omotade Akin Aina on 23rd May 2025 visited Makerere University during his short trip to Kampala. Prof. Aina was received on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe by Prof. Tony Oyana, Principal of the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS).

During his visit, Prof. Aina met with the Project Implementation Committee, representatives from the Consolidating Early Career Academics Programme (CECAP) phase I Fellowship Cohort, and current Fellows of phase II. The meeting discussed the progress of CECAP II, which focuses on fostering academic development and research among early-career academics.

Left to Ritght: Dr. Jesca Nakavuma and Prof. Julius Kikooma alongside Prof. Omotade Akin Aina during the meeting. Prof. Omotade Akin Aina-Carnegie Corporation of New York meeting to discuss progress of Consolidating Early Career Academics Programme (CECAP) phase II, which focuses on fostering academic development and research among early-career academics, 23rd May 2025, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Left to Ritght: Dr. Jesca Nakavuma and Prof. Julius Kikooma alongside Prof. Omotade Akin Aina during the meeting.

CECAP II is being implemented by Makerere University in collaboration with four other Ugandan public universities, including; Busitema University, Gulu University, Kyambogo University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology. Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza, the Project Principal Investigator was represented at the meeting by the Director of Graduate Training, Prof. Julius Kikooma.

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Directorate of Graduate Equips Schools and Colleges with Training in Philosophy of Methods

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By Moses Lutaaya

The Directorate of Graduate Training at Makerere University has equipped several Senior ranking lecturers with expert knowledge in a Training of Trainers’ workshop on “Philosophy of Methods”.

In his remarks at the opening of a 3-day training workshop at Level4 Conference Hall – Senate Building, the Director of Graduate Training Prof. Julius Kikooma said, “The teaching of Philosophy of Methods gives all participants the fundamentals to extend knowledge to other learners, hence its importance in upholding the Makerere University values.”

Kikooma urged and challenged the participants to also attend and actively participate in the follow up of learners’ training of students, stating that the PhD students need support as the directorate continues to coordinate the curriculum of PhD by-research that was approved by the senate recently.

“To holistically implement the senate approved PhD curriculum, we are coordinating capacity building trainings of all stake holders in a structured approach with the different units of the University. Many more trainings including Training of Trainers in advanced research methods course are on the way.”

He further urged the participants to be intentional in their teaching profession and in whatever they were doing, adding “Apart from focusing on practices as teachers and researchers, we can engage in wider philosophical debates in our research areas so that we are relevant in the society and in the empowerment of PhD research students.”

 The participants for the Philosophy of Methods training were from College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Education and External Studies, Makerere University Business School among others.

During the same training, Dr. Dickson Kanakulya stressed the need to train senior lecturers in the Philosophy of Methods, saying, “The biggest connection is that societal problems require concrete research to find solutions. Our challenge in Africa is that we employ a short barrow approach to find solutions to problems. This cannot work. We need consistent researchers to solve problems. Lasting solutions to societal issues can only be got through training such as Philosophy of Methods, where researchers come up with new models for societal solutions.”

Prof. Julius Kikooma pose for a photo with participants and facilitators.

Dr. Kanakulya said that Makerere University remains the biggest research University in Africa and philosophy of Methods helps to come up with good research tools that produce good research outputs. “Research has shown that the higher the number of PhD researchers in any given country, the higher the levels of development of that country e.g. the USA, China etc., adding that research is not limited to only medicinal or agricultural related issues.”

He said philosophy of methods, encourages philosophical creativity in research, “It is meant to bring out philosophical generation of concepts, theories and ideas. It is meant to encourage students to question the existing philosophical assumptions and status quo in a given field of knowledge such that new philosophical concepts are created.”

 For successful rollout of government programs like the National Development Plan 4, Dr. Kanakulya said that Philosophy of Methods training needs to be integrated into such systems. “Philosophy of Methods focuses on ethical thinking aspects. For example, for a better rollout of the Parish Development Model, we need implementers to be ethical.” He added.

 Prof. Sulait Tumwiine, the associate Dean of Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research at MUBS said, “This is a discussion where new ideas are shared to guide and gauge applicability in the current knowledge diversity coupled with lots of technological development including Artificial Intelligence and Chat GPT.”

He added, “As professors of Universities, we need to understand how we leverage on what comes up so that it does not take our space, but also appreciate how we can support growth of knowledge. The Philosophy of Methods training is the answer.”

 Dr. Jim Spire Ssentongo highlighted that Philosophy uses more of the critical mind than Science. He added that philosophy is more of speculation of the mind.

“Sustainability of philosophy Education encourages us to continue training. Philosophy being the oldest discipline retained special status in the academia as a pinnacle of pursuit of knowledge. All disciplines have major elements of philosophy citing examples in the philosophy of Mathematics and Physics.

Dr. Spire added, “If you do not understand philosophy, you cannot deeply investigate anything because philosophy is the reality of understanding everything. Philosophy is the basis of understanding what knowledge is and how it is arrived at.”

Also participating in the workshop was Prof. Joseph Ntaayi from MUBS, in his remarks he said PhD students need the philosophy of methods training to understand how to best to create knowledge. He added that ontological and epistemological questions that lead to good research design methods can only be answered by this training.

Dr. Robert Kakuru, a Lecturer in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences said that the Philosophy of Methods training is needed by every graduate student as well as supervisors to critically determine the choice of methods to use in academic research. For example, “If one wants to use a questionnaire as an interview approach, one should understand, why that approach and yet without this training, the why cannot be answered.” He added.

The Philosophy of Methods training was organized by Directorate of Graduate Training with funding support from the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA).

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