Education
Makerere University Hosts Groundbreaking TELLS Conference on Future Ready Classrooms
Under the theme “Future Ready Classrooms: Technologies and Strategies for Student Success in the 21st Century,” Makerere University recently hosted the third Transformative Education and Lifelong Learning for Sustainable Growth (TELLS) conference, held from August 7-8, 2024. This two-day event emphasized the urgent need for embracing the technological revolution in education to ensure student success in an increasingly digital world.
The TELLS conference is a collaborative effort between Makerere University, Uganda; the University of Rwanda; Jimma University, Ethiopia; and the University of Agder, Norway. This initiative is funded by NORAD under the NORHED II Program (2021-2026).
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Moses Musinguzi, Principal of the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), highlighted Makerere University’s commitment to integrating new innovations in education. He underscored the institution’s dedication to preparing students for life, work, and citizenship, ensuring they contribute to economic and social development, adapt to change, and provide leadership.
“The University’s educational philosophy is rooted in principles of innovation, learner-centeredness, lifelong learning, internationalization, equity and diversity, academic freedom, collaboration, and quality assurance,” Professor Musinguzi stated. He further emphasized the role of the Centre for Lifelong Learning (CLL) in championing continuing and lifelong education on both national and international levels.
Prof. Musinguzi also recognized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the multifaceted challenges and opportunities in education. “The diverse expertise and perspectives gathered here exemplify the power of collaboration. By working together across disciplines, institutions, and borders, we can develop comprehensive solutions that meet the needs of both learners and educators.”
Associate Professor Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Principal of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) at Makerere University, echoed these sentiments. He emphasized the need for universities to navigate the challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI) in research, teaching, and assessment. “We are in an era of AI, and it is imperative that we carefully consider its impact on academic integrity and the future of education.”
Professor Florien Nsanganwimana, Principal of the College of Education at the University of Rwanda, called for a paradigm shift in educational practices, advocating for the integration of transformative technologies in teaching and learning. “In the 21st century, technology-driven education is essential. We must equip our learners with the competencies they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving world,” he urged.
The conference also featured insights from John Domingue of The Open University in the United Kingdom, who delivered a keynote on “Generative AI and the Future of Education.” He emphasized the potential of AI to revolutionize education and the need for educators to prepare students for a future where AI plays a central role.
The TELLS Project coordinators, Associate Professors Paul Birevu Muyinda from Makerere University and Ghislain Maurice N. Isabwe from the University of Agder, Norway, highlighted the project’s achievements, including workshops, policy reviews, and collaborative research efforts. They also addressed challenges such as the digital divide, budget constraints, and security concerns across partner universities.
As the conference concluded, Professor Buyinza Mukadasi, the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs) and Institutional Coordinator of the NORHED II Programme, delivered the closing remarks. He expressed profound gratitude and happiness for hosting the event at Makerere University, highlighting the significance of the TELLS project as one of the 19 projects under the NORHED II programme. He commended the collaborative efforts of the partner institutions, particularly acknowledging the leadership of Prof. Maurice Isabwe and Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda in steering the TELLS project through both good and challenging times.
Professor Mukadasi emphasized the importance of the conference in building capacity for innovative teaching and learning, stating, “This Future Education Conference has not only showcased the rich tapestry of innovation and collaboration in teaching, learning, and educational leadership but has also underscored the significant strides we are making in our quest for educational excellence.” He urged participants to carry forward the momentum of the conference by translating discussions into tangible actions that will enhance the quality of education and promote sustainable development.
As the conference concluded, participants were reminded of the transformative power of education and the need for continuous innovation in teaching and learning. The TELLS conference has set the stage for future collaborations aimed at harnessing technology to enhance education and lifelong learning in Africa and beyond.
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Makerere University’s Centre for Life-Long Learning (CLL) under the College of Education and External Studies celebrated a significant milestone on January 24, 2025, as over 40 students successfully graduated with diplomas and certificates in various fields accredited by the Uganda Business and Technical Examinations Board (UBTEB).
The graduation ceremony, held at Makerere University, marked the sixth cohort to complete their academic programs at the Centre, highlighting its role in equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary for professional and personal growth.
The ceremony included a moment of pride for Namagembe Saidat, who emerged as the best-performing student. She graduated with a Diploma in Secretarial Studies, achieving an outstanding CGPA of 4.86. Saidat’s accomplishment reflects the Centre’s commitment to academic excellence and nurturing top-tier professionals.
In his address, Dr. Oscar Mugula, the National Coordinator of CLL, congratulated the graduates for their resilience and hard work over the two years of study. He commended the government for revising the admission policy for diploma programs, which now requires only one principal pass instead of two. This policy adjustment, he noted, has significantly increased student enrollment and widened access to higher education opportunities.
Dr. Mugula also encouraged the graduates to register with professional bodies as technicians, emphasizing that such affiliations would enhance their employability and competitiveness in the job market.
Speaking on behalf of the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Dr. Harriet Nabushawo extended gratitude to the government, particularly the Ministry of Education and Sports, and UBTEB for entrusting CEES with the training of diverse education stakeholders. She further thanked Makerere University’s management for its unwavering support of the College’s activities and acknowledged the collaboration with the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, which provides access to laboratories and workshops essential for student training.
Dr. Nabushawo urged the graduates to consider advancing their studies by enrolling in degree programs to further enhance their qualifications. Additionally, she shared valuable life skills and encouraged the graduates to adopt a mindset of continuous learning and self-improvement to remain relevant in a dynamic labor market.
The graduation ceremony underscored the transformative impact of lifelong learning in fostering socio-economic development and empowering individuals to achieve their full potential. The Centre for Life-Long Learning continues to play a pivotal role in bridging educational gaps and promoting inclusivity in higher education.
As the graduates embark on their professional journeys, their success serves as a testament to the dedication of CLL’s faculty and staff, as well as the vital role of Makerere University in nurturing skilled professionals equipped to contribute to national development.
Congratulations to the graduates, faculty, and all stakeholders who made this milestone possible!
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