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MU-JHU Employment Opportunity: Five (5) Positions

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MU-JHU RESEARCH COLLABORATION (MU-JHU CARE LTD), a Kampala based equal opportunities HIV/AIDS, TB and related clinical and implementation science research Organization with more than 400 employees is seeking interested, committed and reliable professionals with the described qualification to apply for the full-time position below at MU-JHU.

 MU-JHU anticipates to implement Global Fund HIV/TB activities through a project targeting Adolescent Girls and Young Women (AGYW) in the districts of Pader, Kitgum and Dokolo, as a sub-recipient of the Global Fund grant (UGA-C-TASO) under The AIDS Support Organisation (TASO) as the prime recipient. MU-JHU therefore seeks suitable candidates to fill the following positions in the project tenable in the said districts of implementation, to be contracted on an annual basis, subject to availability of funds. The successful candidates will be based in the districts mentioned above.

  1. Position: Project Coordinator
    • Duty Station: (Pader District)
    • Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)

Description and purpose:

The Project Coordinator will provide technical leadership to the project staff implementing activities in areas of operation and ensure timely reporting and accountability for all project activities in all districts of implementation.

Required qualifications and profile:

The applicant must hold a bachelor’s degree in a health-related field, Social Sciences, Social works and Social Administration and any other related field. A Post Graduate qualification in Public Health, Project Planning and Management or related fields is an added advantage.   The suitable candidate should have at least 5 years of working experience in SRHR, HIV and TB community work. Additional experience in health systems strengthening and programming in donor-funded projects, particularly in rural settings in a similar project environment, is highly preferred. The person should have high integrity and ethical standards, ooutstanding communication, presentation, and facilitation skills, advanced analytical and report writing capabilities, ccollaborative mindset with a positive attitude towards teamwork, aability to handle multiple tasks, work under pressure, and meet tight deadlines and sstrong problem-solving skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information and take initiative. Valid permit to drive and ride a motorcycle will be an added advantage.

The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Director Strategic Planning & Partnerships and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

Project management and Co-ordination

  • Provide oversight and leadership of the project to ensure strategic alignment, effective management, and successful achievement of project objectives.
  • Planning project implementation including preparation of project workplans and budgets.
  • Oversee and control project budget execution as per budget allocations.
  • Actively support project teams to manage competing work priorities.
  • Coordinating project staff, cluster/district and other key partners to achieve project goals.
  • Supervise staff within jurisdiction, while mentoring them to deliver project results and
    deliverables.
  • Provide technical support and monitor project implementation to ensure compliance with donor requirements, approved budget and work Plans.
  • Ensure proper utilization and accountability to project resources.
  • Build sound and mutually respectable relations with District leaders, Communities and other project stakeholders.
  • Support effective monitoring of donor grants allocated to project, partners, stakeholders, ensuring appropriate reporting and documentation is in place.
  • Develop impactful stories demonstrating the project’s accomplishments and results.
  • Develop and enforce protocols for storage and use of information.
  • Organize and provide support for project meetings and events.
  • Ensuring proper record keeping and organisation of project files, registers and logs.
  • Actively participate in resource mobilization and other strategically beneficial activities resulting from or connected to your technical position on this project.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

  • Working closely with the M&E Coordinator to ensure proper documentation of project data in compliance with MoH requirements and donor reporting.
  • Prepare and ensure timely submission of activity progress reports on a weekly, monthly and quarterly basis and whenever required by the project management team. 
  • Prepare timely periodic progress reports as determined by the Director or SMT for submission to donors and MU-JHU board.
  • Perform any other duties and responsibilities that may be assigned by the immediate
    supervisor.

  1. Position: Monitoring and Evaluation Coordinator 
    • Duty Station: (Pader District)
    • Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)

Description and purpose:

The M&E coordinator will provide overall M&E technical leadership and oversight to ensure that a robust and functional M&E system is in place; and is utilized to support the implementation of this project. 

Required qualifications and profile:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Population and demography, Quantitative Economics or a related field. A Post Graduate qualification in Monitoring and Evaluation is an added advantage. At least five years’ experience in leading M&E work in health or livelihood donor-funded projects, preferably in a similar project environment. Knowledge of HIV/TB, AGYW programming, and Health Systems Strengthening frameworks is an added advantage. Data centred mindset and result oriented personality is highly preferred. Relevant knowledge in databases and statistical software (such as STATA, R) and experience with IT tools for M&E is highly desirable. Relevant knowledge of data quality control and assurance processes is required. Valid permit to drive and ride a motorcycle will be an added advantage. The person should have Excellent computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft office applications including Office, Excel and PowerPoint. Knowledge and skills in data visualization and presentation is an added advantage. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly, coherently and correctly, and facilitate engaging discussions and ability to prioritize workload and meet deadlines

The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Project Coordinator and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

  1. Develop M&E tools, frameworks, and methodologies to measure project progress and output.
  2. Regularly review and monitor the implementation of M&E systems, guidelines, and protocols to ensure effective tracking and measurement of project performance.
  3. Oversee and ensure the execution of M&E activities including data qualities assurance exercises and support supervisions for the data functions in all 3 districts.
  4. Participate in the development, revision and update of weekly, monthly, quarterly work plans that address project objectives and facilitate timely implementation of project activities.
  5. Ensure data quality, utilization, and dissemination to inform project implementation and decision-making.
  6. Lead/be a key contributor in the development and submission of technical reports according to the predetermined schedule by the donors and generate additional reports as required to facilitate informed decision-making.
  7. Coordinate all data officers in the project districts to adhere to operational reporting guidelines and achieve timely data entry and reporting according to established schedules.
  8. Facilitate data-driven decision-making for the project and its stakeholders, identify and address areas for improvement, ensuring proactive adjustments that maximize project performance and achieve project goals.
  9. Provide technical guidance and support to project staff to ensure data-driven programming and enhance M&E capacity including trainings and mentorship of data collection teams.
  10. Work with project coordinator to track implementation of project activities according the workplans.
  11. Provide timely and accurate responses to data requests and queries from donors, partners, and MUJHU management.
  12. Actively participate in resource mobilization and other strategically beneficial activities resulting from or connected to your technical position on this project.
  13. Perform any other duties and responsibilities assigned by project management to ensure smooth project implementation.

  1. Position: Project Officer (3 positions)
    • Duty Station: (Pader, Kitgum, Dokolo districts)
    • Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)

Description and purpose:

The Project Officer will be responsible for planning, coordination and implementation of UGA-C-TASO project activities within the district and be the technical lead in the supported district.

Required qualifications and profile:

Bachelor’s Degree in either Public health, Social Sciences, Social work and Social Administration, Community Psychology, Adult and Community education and other humanities or health related discipline. Clinical officers with this experience may also apply. At least three years’ work experience implementing AGYW or DREAMS Initiative, preferably in a similar project environment. Valid permit to ride a motorcycle is essential.

The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Project Coordinator and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

  1. Take lead in planning, coordination and implementation of activities required under this project, including modalities of community and district owned implementation.
  2. Provide technical assistance to district, partner and community stakeholders during implementation of this project through planning, mobilizing and on-site mentorship activities based on national guidelines, protocols and the project’s implementation guidelines.
  3. Work closely with the project M&E Officer and Project Coordinator to ensure regular updates of the project activity tracker, tools, systems and databases.
  4. Ensure timely reporting and documentation of results from the project implementation in collaboration with M&E team, ensuring accuracy of data reported and supported narratives and evidence monthly and quarterly reporting cycles.
  5. Foster smooth and effective collaboration with partners at district and sub-county level implementing activities funded by this project.
  6. Strengthen referral and linkages between community service delivery points and health facilities for AGYW and their partners for all services not directly provided by this project.
  7. Support establishment of District Technical Working Groups and Community Quality
    Improvement teams to support implementation of AGYW risk reduction plans in identified communities.
  8. Strengthen partner coordination in the districts through participating in meetings, joint field support supervision and activity implementation.
  9. Develop up-front activity trip plans, budgets, procurements and implementation plans on weekly, monthly and quarterly basis.
  10. Represent the project in Districts meetings including extended DHT meetings,
    comprehensive partners’ meetings when invited and district technical working
    group activities where MU-JHU is required to participate.

  1. Position: Data Officer (3 positions)
    • Duty Station: (Pader, Kitgum, Dokolo districts)
    • Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)

Description and purpose:

To plan and monitor the implementation of UGA-C-TASO project activities in the district and conduct data entry, cleaning, and documentation of implemented activities and outputs using appropriate data tools and ensure timely availability of quality data for reporting. 

Required qualifications and profile:

Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Population and demography, Quantitative Economics or a related data science field. At least two years’ experience in M&E work in health or livelihood donor-funded projects, preferably in a similar project environment. Valid permit to ride a motorcycle is essential.

The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Monitoring & Evaluation Coordinator and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

  1. Maintain firm and updated knowledge of all data tools, systems and requirements under the project.
  2. Conduct timely and accurate data entry for implemented activities.
  3. Maintain up-to-date project databases of all activities implemented and routinely share with the M&E Coordinator all entered data sets for merging and analysis.
  4. Ensure availability of updated data capture and reporting tools at the community for effective tracking of services provided to AGYW/ABYM and other targeted populations.
  5. Support program teams to analyse and interpret data.
  6. Participate in the development of weekly, monthly, quarterly work plans.
  7. Monitor and track the implementation of project activities and support Project Officer to develop catch-up plans in case of unmet targets.
  8. Support the Project Officer in planning, mobilization and implementation of project activities and tracking achievements of targets.
  9. Monitor the cluster PMP and give progress updates on a weekly, monthly, and quarterly basis.
  10. Plan, organize and conduct periodic performance review meetings for sharing progress with stakeholders.
  11. Conduct data validation, to ensure correct and consistent data is reported in periodic reports.
  12. Ensure that all the planned and approved activities are implemented within the agreed-upon time frame.
  13. Support district-based stakeholders, including statistician, facility and partner data staff to accurately and timely capture, enter, submit and report on respective data from project activities.

  1. Position: Communications Officer  
    • Duty Station: MU-JHU Care Ltd
    • Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)

Description and purpose:

To support the Communications Specialist in content development, digital marketing, social media management and event management support.

Required qualifications and profile:

Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications, Marketing, Branding, Journalism, or Public Relations. At least 2 years relevant experience preferably in a similar position in an NGO or media house. Understand research activities and achievements to communicate effectively. Copy writing and copy-editing skills. Knowledge of photography concepts like exposure, composition, focus and lighting. Familiarity with different types of cameras (Canon/ Nikon DSLRs and smartphones) and accessories (lenses, tripods, flashes). Basic knowledge of photo editing software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom) to enhance and retouch images is helpful. This includes adjusting exposure, color balance, and cropping. Ability to post content and gather analytics on MU-JHU social media pages on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. Have strong organizational skills to manage event logistics and coordinate speakers and presenters. Possess excellent interpersonal skills to provide on-site support and address event issues.

The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Communications Specialist with functional responsibilities to the Director Strategic Planning & Partnerships and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

Content Development:

  • Produce Various Types of Content: The officer must create articles, social media posts, and presentations that effectively communicate the site’s research activities and achievements. This requires a deep understanding of the subject matter and the ability to tailor content for different audiences and platforms.
  • Editing and Proofreading: Ensuring accuracy, consistency, and adherence to brand guidelines is crucial. The officer must have strong attention to detail and a keen eye for errors.
  • Photography: Using photography to capture site activities and research milestones requires both technical skills and creative vision. The officer must be able to tell a visual story that highlights the site’s work and achievements.

Digital Marketing:

  • Social Media Management: Managing the site’s social media accounts involves engaging with followers, sharing updates and research findings, and promoting events and initiatives. The officer must have a deep understanding of social media platforms and trends.
  • Online Reputation Management: Monitoring online conversations and reviews and responding promptly and appropriately is critical for maintaining a positive reputation. The officer must be adept at handling public relations and crisis communications.
  • Analytics: Monitoring and analysing the performance of digital marketing efforts using analytics tools requires strong analytical skills. The officer must be able to interpret data to assess effectiveness and inform future strategies.

Event Management Support:

  • Event Concept Development: Assisting in the development of event concepts, themes, and objectives requires creativity and strategic thinking. The officer must align event plans with the site’s communication strategy and goals.
  • Materials Creation: Creating event materials such as invitations, programs, signage, and presentations requires design skills and the ability to effectively communicate key messages.
  • On-Site Support: Providing on-site support during events, including managing registration, coordinating speakers and presenters, and addressing issues, requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills.

Applications with complete C.Vs, including 3 referees and their full address or contact telephone number, copies of academic certificates and testimonials, should be addressed to the MU-JHU Director Human Resources, through the reception on first floor, MU-JHU 1 Building or sent by email (application should not exceed 15MBs) to HR@mujhu.org  – not later than 12th August 2024 by 5.30pm. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.

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Makerere University Strengthens Academic Leadership Through Capacity Building for Heads of Department

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Comprehensive capacity-building and retooling workshop for all Heads of Department (HoDs) organized under the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVCAA) August 5, 2025, Senate Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

In a strategic move to enhance academic leadership and institutional efficiency, Makerere University conducted a comprehensive capacity-building and retooling workshop for all Heads of Department (HoDs) on August 5, 2025. The workshop, held at the Senate Conference Hall, brought together HoDs from various academic units to deepen their understanding of university academic policies, graduate training guidelines, and intellectual property management.

The training was organized under the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs. The session aimed at aligning departmental leadership with the University’s strategic goals, policies, and operational frameworks, particularly in relation to graduate education and research governance.

Opening the workshop, Prof. Buyinza Bukadasi, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), underscored the importance of strong departmental leadership in driving the University’s vision:

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi makes his remarks. Comprehensive capacity-building and retooling workshop for all Heads of Department (HoDs) organized under the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVCAA) August 5, 2025, Senate Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi makes his remarks.

“The Head of Department is not merely an administrator; they are the academic engine of their unit. By equipping our HoDs with up-to-date policy knowledge, research management skills, and leadership tools, we are investing in the core structures that sustain academic excellence and innovation at Makerere.”

Emphasis on Graduate Policy and Structured PhD Training

Dr. Julius Kikooma, Director of the Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT), led an engaging presentation on the Makerere University Graduate Policies, Guidelines, and Procedures. His session unpacked critical updates in the revised 2024 Graduate Handbook, including:

  • Removal of provisional admission for PhD by Research.
  • A structured PhD framework requiring a minimum of three years and 40 credit units.
  • Strengthened supervision standards and doctoral mentorship structures.
  • Cohort-based admissions to improve program coherence and tracking.
  • Integration of cross-cutting courses such as Scholarly Writing, Advanced Research Methods, and Teaching Assistantship into PhD training.

The new framework, supported by the Research Information Management System (RIMS), enhances monitoring of student progress and ensures timely completion of graduate programs. Dr. Kikooma emphasized the importance of departmental roles in guiding and supporting students, noting that departments serve as the primary disciplinary homes for graduate students and are key in fostering research cultures.

A section of HoDs listens to the DVCAA make his address. Comprehensive capacity-building and retooling workshop for all Heads of Department (HoDs) organized under the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVCAA) August 5, 2025, Senate Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A section of HoDs listens to the DVCAA make his address.

Understanding and Applying Intellectual Property Policies

The session also featured a detailed presentation on the Makerere University Intellectual Property Management Policy (2008, as amended), delivered by Counsel Esther Kabinga, Ag. Manager of the Intellectual Property Management Office (IPMO). Participants were guided through the obligations and rights related to IP created by staff, students, and visitors.

The presentation highlighted:

  • Ownership structures for IP generated at the University.
  • Procedures for disclosing, protecting, and commercializing IP.
  • Roles of departments in supporting creators and liaising with IPMO.
  • Revenue-sharing mechanisms and the inclusion of IP outputs in staff promotion criteria.

Counsel Kabinga encouraged HoDs to promote awareness of IP rights and responsibilities within their units, especially given the increasing volume of research outputs and innovations emerging from the University.

Strategic Alignment with the University’s Research Agenda

The workshop is part of broader efforts to implement the Makerere University Research Agenda 2025/26 – 2029/30, which prioritizes talent development, research visibility, and knowledge transfer. According to Dr. Robert Wamala, Director of the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Partnerships (DRIP), strengthening administrative and academic capacity at departmental level is critical for sustaining Makerere’s status as a leading research institution.

Dr. Robert Wamala makes his presentation. Comprehensive capacity-building and retooling workshop for all Heads of Department (HoDs) organized under the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVCAA) August 5, 2025, Senate Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Robert Wamala makes his presentation.

The Research Agenda also supports the operationalization of structures like the IP Management Committee and GAMSU (Grants Administration and Support Unit), both of which are instrumental in streamlining research support services.

The training reaffirmed Makerere University‘s commitment to continuous professional development and the strategic empowerment of academic leaders. With a renewed understanding of policies and tools, Heads of Department are now better equipped to foster academic excellence, supervise graduate research, and steward innovation at the departmental level.

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Admission Lists -Successful Appeals 2025/26

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International Admissions at makerere university

The Office of Academic Registrar, Makerere University has released the admission lists for candidates for those whose appeals have been successful for the 2025/26 Academic Year.

Kindly follow the links below to access the lists respectively:-

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UNDP and Mak Launch Daycare Centre and Multimedia Studio to Boost Gender Equality and Digital Inclusion

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Mr. Ian King and H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James (Standing before Banners) are joined by officials in a group photo in the Daycare Centre, located on the Ground Floor of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) on 7th August 2025. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Uganda, has launched two transformative facilities, a Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), and a state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility. These facilities mark a major milestone in the University’s commitment to gender equality, student and staff welfare, and digital innovation in higher education.

A Milestone for Gender Equality: Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre

Mr. Ian King, the Ag. Resident Representative, UNDP Uganda, speaking at launch of the Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre emphasized the importance of the Gender Equality Seal (GES) initiative, funded by the European Union (EU). He applauded the Institute for being the first in Africa to participate in the GES.

Mr. King highlighted the role of the facility to mothers and some fathers in ensuring children’s safety and peace of mind for parents. He further commended the Institute for demonstrating what can be achieved through the programme. He stressed the importance of setting high standards for child care centres and making spaces safe for young parents. The Daycare centre is intended to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children and relief for mothers and fathers to focus on their work and studies.

A view of the general play and lounge area of the Daycare Centre. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A view of the general play and lounge area of the Daycare Centre.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor, noted that the centre will be crucial in supporting breastfeeding mothers—particularly students and staff—to continue their academic and professional pursuits. Recalling a time when women were barely represented in the University Senate, he acknowledged the significant strides Makerere has made, while also noting ongoing gaps in graduate gender equity.

“The majority of graduates are women, but there are still issues of equity at the graduate level. I think there are still issues that we must solve, and one of them is helping mothers who are students and members of staff to continue with what they do, even when they have got babies to look after because that’s one of the reasons, I think, why many students drop out just because they become mothers,” he added.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe holds a baby as he makes his remarks at the Daycare facility. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe holds a baby as he makes his remarks at the Daycare facility.

He acknowledged that the facility will come in handy for addressing challenges, including balancing motherhood with academic or professional responsibilities. He extended appreciation to UNDP for their long-standing partnership in transforming Makerere into a more inclusive and modern academic institution.

The Head of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), Prof. Sarah Ssali, in her remarks, thanked the Vice Chancellor who catered for the Daycare Centre while designing the building. Prof. Ssali highlighted that the Daycare describes Makerere University‘s history and its commitment to gender equality and inclusion. She highlighted that the University has over 20 gender policies and interventions—with some directly impacting gender equality and others improving the work ecosystem—for example, digitization, quality assurance programmes and scholarship programmes. “But this is the first that directly addresses the needs of both students and staff—mothers and fathers alike—through a shared space for child care,” she said.

Prof. Sarah Ssali (Right) welcomes officials to the Institute of Gender and Development Studies. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali (Right) welcomes officials to the Institute of Gender and Development Studies.

Ms. Donna Keirungi, a mother and alumna of the University, shared her personal journey on how challenging it is to balance both studying and childcare. She highlighted that the Daycare Centre aims to make the various policies on gender equality and women’s empowerment practical, and to support the University’s commitment to Gender Equality. The Centre aims to fulfil the University’s Strategic Plan 2020–2030’s emphasis on creating an enabling environment and work-life balance.

“The journey to establish the centre began in 2022 with support from the UNDP, including benchmarking at a well-established Daycare Centre in Parliament. The centre is open to children aged zero to five years, including those of students and staff members,” she highlighted.

Ms. Donna Keirungi leads officials on a tour of the Daycare Centre. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Donna Keirungi leads officials on a tour of the Daycare Centre.

The Daycare Centre is unique in that it benefits all members of the University community, including single fathers and students.

H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James, the 91st Guild President, thanked UNDP and the organising committee for their efforts in making the facility a reality, describing it as a testament to the University’s commitment to gender equity, student welfare, and removing barriers for parenting students. He highlighted the importance of peace of mind for students, especially mothers, and how the facility will help them balance their roles.

Advancing Digital Transformation: New Multimedia Studio Launched

In a separate but equally impactful launch at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Mr. Ian King described the studio as a strategic milestone in the University’s vision to modernise higher education and foster flexible learning. Mr. King noted that Uganda has made significant progress in digital inclusion with over 13 million internet users. He emphasized that the facility aims to address gaps in digital skills access—with only 3% of the population currently benefiting—and promote digital inclusion in line with the pillars of the Digital Economy Scorecard.

Mr. Ian King makes his remarks prior to launching the Multimedia Studio. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Ian King makes his remarks prior to launching the Multimedia Studio.

He also expressed confidence that the next Digital Economy Scorecard will show improved figures due to the efforts of Makerere and other universities. The digital studio will provide a dedicated space equipped with modern infrastructure to facilitate equitable access to digital skills development. He encouraged full utilization of the studio to maximise its impact on teaching, learning and skills development. He further thanked the Makerere University Management and development partners for their financial contributions that enabled the studio’s realization.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe expressed gratitude to the UNDP for their long-time support, especially with facilities like the Makerere University Innovation Pod (Mak UniPod). He thanked the UNDP for contributing to the modernisation of the University. The Vice Chancellor pledged to use the facility to build capacity across all disciplines and provide knowledge to a wider audience online.

Left to Right: Prof. Sarah Ssali, Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Mr. Ian King, H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James and Ms. Annet Mpabalungi Wakabi in the Multimedia Studio. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Left to Right: Prof. Sarah Ssali, Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Mr. Ian King, H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James and Ms. Annet Mpabalungi Wakabi in the Multimedia Studio.

He noted that Africa’s enrolment in higher education is the lowest in the world despite having the fastest-growing population, emphasizing the importance of providing high-quality education to as many people as possible, both on-campus and online. “I’m happy that this facility looks even more diverse than ones I have seen,” he said, expressing his gratitude to UNDP. The Vice Chancellor also highlighted the impact of the UNDP’s support towards unleashing talent and fostering innovation among students. “So by bringing the UniPod, you helped us unlock so much talent, and these students can now come up with the innovations which can be commercialised and create jobs for our fast-growing populations,” said Prof. Nawangwe.

Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, the Director, Makerere University Institute of Open Distance and e-Learning (IODel), said that the studio brings a significant leap in content production for e-learning. He expressed gratitude to UNDP for providing the necessary equipment to compete with world-class universities. He highlighted that e-learning courses are now incorporating multimedia elements like video and sound, moving on from the text-based model.

Officials pose for a group photo shortly after the launch of the Multimedia Studio. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Officials pose for a group photo shortly after the launch of the Multimedia Studio.

He further mentioned the preference of the younger generation for visual and interactive content, making multimedia content essential for effective teaching and learning. Prof. Muyinda explained how the new multimedia studio will allow for more authentic and context-specific e-learning content, enhancing student engagement. He emphasized that the University is focusing on four key areas: training staff on studio usage, AI literacy, online facilitation, and teaching learners how to use e-learning technology. He underscored the importance of continuous innovation and adaptation in e-learning to keep up with global standards.

Dr. Godfrey Mayende revealed that all science units can also be taught in this Multimedia Studio. He said that the studio provides the naturalness of a class setting as it gives space for students to physically sit in the studio room as the lecturer is teaching or recording a lecture.

Dr. Godfrey Mayende observes as Mr. Ian King tests the Multimedia Studio's provisions that support teaching of subjects that necessitate writing of formulae and other hand-drawn illustrations. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Godfrey Mayende observes as Mr. Ian King tests the Multimedia Studio’s provisions that support teaching of subjects that necessitate writing of formulae and other hand-drawn illustrations.

The two facilities; Daycare Centre and Multimedia Studio, are the latest in a series of initiatives borne out of the strong partnership between Makerere University and the United Nations Development Programme, including the previously launched Mak UniPod and Gender Equality Seal for Public Institutions. The abovementioned developments offer clear demonstration that Makerere University and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have a strong partnership focused on fostering innovation and development in Uganda and beyond.

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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