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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.

Mak Editor

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DVCAA Commends RENU Industrial Training Programme, Calls for its Expansion

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Prof. Sarah Ssali (2nd Row Centre) with RENU Leadership and Trainees after the visit on 15th July 2026. The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA) Prof. Sarah Ssali's guided tour of Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU)’s Industrial Trainee Program on 15th July 2026, RENU Labs, Edge Road, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA) Prof. Sarah Ssali on 15th July 2026 commended the Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU)’s Industrial Trainee Program, describing it as the perfect hands-on intervention for the future workforce. She made the comments while on a guided tour of RENU’s on-campus Lab facility where ten undergraduate students from Makerere and other Universities are undergoing a two-month practical training.

Origin of tour

The tour was prompted by a 24th June 2026 meeting with a RENU delegation led by CEO, Mr. Nicholas Mbonimpa, aimed at broadening the existing partnership with Makerere University beyond internet service provision to supporting teaching, learning and research activities. During the said meeting, Prof. Ssali expressed Makerere‘s desire to produce graduates that are not only academically grounded but also cognizant of the needs of the job market.

Seated L-R: Prof. Dorothy Okello, Prof. Sarah Ssali, Mr. Nicholas Mbonimpa and Mr. Samuel Mugabi during the 24th June 2026 meeting. The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA) Prof. Sarah Ssali's meeting with Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU)’s Leadership on 24th June 2026, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Seated L-R: Prof. Dorothy Okello, Prof. Sarah Ssali, Mr. Nicholas Mbonimpa and Mr. Samuel Mugabi during the 24th June 2026 meeting.

In his response then, Mr. Mbonimpa expressed RENU’s readiness to continue advancing digital transformation through advancing resilient connectivity, research infrastructure, and innovative initiatives that enhance teaching, learning, and research. He shared that the Senate Building’s computer network had been revamped in line with advancing resilient connectivity, and the initiative would be expanded to the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) buildings and other premises subsequently.

The RENU CEO further highlighted that resilient connectivity forms a good basis for the proposed Open Radio Access Network (RAN) Architecture deployment set to be done within six months, so as to boost training of students in 5G and other technologies. Other initiatives discussed included training staff and students on acquisition of Open Researcher and Contributor ID (ORCID) to improve visibility of their publications and research output. 

Training Program Lauded

Addressing student interns during the 15th July guided tour, the DVCAA who was accompanied by the 92nd Guild Speaker Rt. Hon. Trevis Mutatiina Muhwezi urged beneficiaries to harness all the technical and social opportunities accorded by the Program. “Not all students in your respective academic programmes had the benefit of being exposed to this kind of training so please make the most of it and utilize skills gained here beyond the classroom setting”.

Mr. Nicholas Mbonimpa (C) with Prof. Sarah Ssali (L) and Rt. Hon. Trevis Mutatiina Muhwezi (R). The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA) Prof. Sarah Ssali's guided tour of Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU)’s Industrial Trainee Program on 15th July 2026, RENU Labs, Edge Road, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Nicholas Mbonimpa (C) with Prof. Sarah Ssali (L) and Rt. Hon. Trevis Mutatiina Muhwezi (R).

The 2026 Industrial Trainee Program is equipping students with skills on how to diagnose and repair ICT equipment based on old and disused stock.

Prof Ssali was also toured the makerspace where solar-powered routers are manufactured and deployed to extend internet connectivity to both rural and urban locations. In 2023, RENU partnered with Mesh++, a Chicago-based connectivity solutions manufacturer, to manufacture solar-powered internet routers in Uganda. Since inception, over 200 units have been manufactured and deployed across various sites in Uganda, while over 80 units have been shipped to various African countries such as Malawi, Rwanda and South Sudan under the RENUMESH Technologies joint venture.

Prof. Sara Ssali inspects the RENUMESH Technologies router. The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA) Prof. Sarah Ssali's guided tour of Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU)’s Industrial Trainee Program on 15th July 2026, RENU Labs, Edge Road, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sara Ssali inspects the RENUMESH Technologies router.

Partnerships Inspiring New Prototypes

The RENU CEO nevertheless pointed to a long turnaround time for shipping parts from the U.S. as one of the drawbacks hindering the product’s rapid deployment. As a result, RENU, in response to the Ugandan Government’s call for import substitution and local capacity development is developing a solar-powered internet router with some of the components sourced from Ugandan companies Innovex and Chloride Excide.

“Innovex will supply the Internet of Things (IoT) component to help RENU remotely monitor and control the router while Chloride Excide will provide the batteries” Mr. Mbonimpa explained. He added that some of the current lot of trainees were already running simulations on the prototype and proposing how the device can be further refined so as to increase its portability and reduce its price.

Prof. Sarah Ssali with RENU Leadership and Trainees in the makerspace. The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA) Prof. Sarah Ssali's guided tour of Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU)’s Industrial Trainee Program on 15th July 2026, RENU Labs, Edge Road, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali with RENU Leadership and Trainees in the makerspace.

A call for Expansion

At the conclusion of the tour, Prof. Ssali who commended the use of modular Ugandan components for the prototype thanked the RENU team to exposing students to real-world technological deployments. She nevertheless urged the CEO and his team to expand the program’s intake beyond ten trainees and duration beyond the current two months so as to give students a richer experience.

The CEO RENUMESH Technologies Mr. Brian Masiga thanked the DVCAA for following up their 24th June meeting with the visit, which demonstrates that the University Management values students’ development of practical skills. He equally thanked Prof. Ssali for Management’s support to RENU activities and pledged to further refine the prototype to produce a cheaper and more portable proudly Ugandan product.  

Mr. Brian Masiga (R) walks Prof. Ssali (L) through the layout of the prototype. The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA) Prof. Sarah Ssali's guided tour of Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU)’s Industrial Trainee Program on 15th July 2026, RENU Labs, Edge Road, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Brian Masiga (R) walks Prof. Ssali (L) through the layout of the prototype.

Mark Wamai

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Makerere University Launches First Writing Summer School to Strengthen Professional Writing Skills.

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First Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof Sarah Ssali on her Right, Prof. Fredrick Muyodi, and Assoc Prof. William Tayeebwa at the launch of the Summer School

KAMPALA, UGANDA, EAST AFRICA| July 6, 2026.

First Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof Sarah Ssali on her Right, Prof. Fredrick Muyodi, and Assoc Prof. William Tayeebwa at the launch of the Summer School
First Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof Sarah Ssali on her Right, Prof. Fredrick Muyodi, and Prof. William Tayeebwa at the launch of the Summer School.

Makerere University has officially launched its inaugural writing summer school, a week long professional development program aimed at equipping students, graduates, researchers and staff with practical writing skills required for academic excellence and success in today’s competitive job market. The program jointly organized by the Makerere University Writing Centre and Makerere University Press (MakPress), reflects the University’s commitment to nurturing graduates with not only academic knowledge but also the communication skills needed to thrive professionally.

Held virtually, the launch attracted more than 280 participants from Makerere University and other higher education institutions, demonstrating the growing demand for structured writing support beyond the classroom.

Building the Next Generation of Writers.

Speaking at the launch, the Director of Makerere Writing Press, Prof. William Tayeebwa, said the summer school represents an important investment in developing writers before their work reaches publication.

“The press has traditionally focused on publishing books, journals and scholarly work. Today, we are expanding that mission by helping and develop the writers who will produce tomorrow’s publication.

He noted that MakPress continues to support the publication of books and scholarly works produced by members of the Makerere Community. Using recently published books authored by a member of staff and a student as examples, he encouraged participants to submit manuscripts for publishing support rather than relying solely on self publication.

Writing as a Foundation for Academic and Professional Success.

Chairperson of the Makerere University Writing Centre, Prof. Frederick Muyodi, said the center was established to strengthen the writing competences among students, researchers and university staff.

” The Writers Center is here to support every stage of the writing process from CVs and application letters to research manuscripts, grant proposals, reports and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in writing.”

He explained that the Centre supports writing across multiple disciplines and professional contexts, adding that its long term vision is to extend writing support beyond Makerere University to institutions across Uganda and the East African region.

Equipping Graduates for the Labour Market.

Officially launching the summer school, the First Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, described the initiative as a strategic investment in preparing graduates for an increasingly competitive labour market.

She observed that while universities successfully impart disciplinary knowledge, many graduates leave campus without the practical writing skills required to secure employment and other professional opportunities.

“We teach content very, but many students are never taught how to write an effective CV, application letter, motivation statement or scholarly essay. Yet these are the documents that often determine whether someone secures an opportunity.”

Prof. Ssali said the writing summer school would bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice by equipping participants with market ready communication skills.

Reaffirming her office’s commitment to the initiative, she added:

“My office is pleased to support this initiative as we institutionalize the Writing Summer School to ensure that Makerere graduates leave not only with degrees but also with practical competencies needed to thrive professionally,”

She officially declared the inaugural Writing Summer School open and expressed optimism that future editions would attract even more participants and resources.

Participants Gain Practical CV Writing Skills.

The first technical session was facilitated by Mr. Abdul Noor Luttamaguzi, a PhD student in the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences within the School of Bio sciences at Makerere University, a Senior Fisheries Officer with Luweero District Local Government, and the founder and director of the ANL Foundation, an organization that supports youth employment and capacity building.

During the session, he guided participants on developing competitive CVs tailored to specific professionals and employer expectations. He emphasized that applicants should customize their CVs to suit each opportunity instead of submitting the same document for every application. Participants also learned how effectively present their education, work experience, leadership roles technical competencies and professional achievements, while avoiding unnecessary personal information. Practical demonstrations using professional specific CVs provided participants with hands on examples of preparing competitive job application documents.

Looking Ahead.

The Writing Summer School continues throughout the week sessions on application letter writing, responsible use of artificial intelligence, professional communication and other essential writing skills aimed at improving academic productivity and employablity.

Through initiatives such as the Writing Summer School, Makerere University continues to strengthen its commitment to producing graduates who are not academically accomplished but also equipped with practical communication skills that enable them to compete and lead in today’s global workplace.

Allan Ainematsiko

I'm Allan Ainematsiko, a fourth year student pursuing Bachelors of Journalism and Communication at Makerere University.

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Makerere Launches Strategic Plan 2025-2030 to Drive Research, Innovation and National Development.

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Hon. Henry Musasizi (3rd R) unveils the Makerere University Strategic Plan (2025-2030).

Kampala, Uganda East Africa.

Makerere University has officially launched its Strategic Plan 2025-2030, reaffirming its commitment to advancing research, innovation, academic excellence and human capital development in support of Uganda’s national transformation agenda.

The Strategic Plan, unveiled by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, provides a road map for strengthening the University’s contribution to Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy through research, innovation, entrepreneurship and the production of highly skilled graduates.

The launch, held at the University’s Main Hall, brought together government officials, members of the University Council, management, development partners, staff and students to witness what leaders described as the beginning of Makerere University’s next phase of institutional transformation.

Positioning Makerere for National Transformation.

Delivering his remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe said the Strategic Plan reflects Makerere University’s ambition to become an even stronger research led institution that responds directly to Uganda’s development priorities.

He noted that the University intends to restore student enrollment to pre COVID levels while significantly increasing postgraduate training to produce more researchers, innovators and professionals capable of addressing national challenges.

Prof. Nawangwe also highlighted the University’s growing research portfolio, commending researchers and research centers that continue to attract substantial international funding.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

“when you combine the grants won by all our researchers through competitive international funding, the total exceeds US$200 million,” He said.

The Vice Chancellor also pointed to the need to strengthen the University’s academic workforce, noting that although progress has been made, more investment is required to fill approved academic positions, particularly at professor and associate professor levels.

Strategic Plan Sets Ambitious Institutional Targets.

Chairperson of the University Council, Dr. Lorna Magara, described the Strategic Plan as more than an institutional document, calling it “a public covenant with the people of Uganda.”

She said the Plan outlines measurable commitments that will guide the University’s performance over the next five years, including expanding postgraduate enrolment, increasing STEM participation, improving doctoral completion rates and strengthening research productivity.

Dr. Lorna Magala
Dr. Lorna Magara.

“Ambition is precisely what this moment demands. A strategic plan is not measured by the elegance of its language, but by the lives it transforms,” she said.

Dr. Magara emphasized that every investment in Makerere University should translate into tangible benefits for society through research, innovation, leadership and skilled graduates.

She also called for reforms to Uganda’s Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act to strengthen university governance and create an enabling environment for innovation and knowledge production.

Government Reaffirms Support.

Launching the Strategic Plan, Hon. Henry Musasizi commended Makerere University for aligning its institutional priorities with Uganda’s Vision 2040, the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) and the country’s Tenfold Growth Strategy.

He observed that universities remain central actors in national development because they produce the knowledge, innovation and skilled workforce required to transform Uganda’s economy.

Hon. Henry Musasizi.
Hon. Henry Musasizi.

“Universities are central actors in national transformation. they are engines of knowledge creation, innovation and human capital development,” he said.

The Minister emphasized government’s commitment to supporting research, innovation and stronger collaboration between universities and industry to ensure that knowledge generated within higher education institutions contributes directly to economic growth.

Universities Critical to Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy.

Presenting the national development perspective, Samuel Kasule, Senior Planner at the National Planning Authority, explained that the Strategic Plan aligns closely with the Uganda’s long term development framework.

He noted that achieving the country’s ambitious economic growth targets will depend heavily on universities producing competent graduates, expanding research and strengthening innovation ecosystems that support priority sectors including agriculture, tourism, ICT, minerals, manufacturing, and oil and gas.

Kasule further underscored the importance of competency based education and post graduate training in building the human capital required for sustainable national development.

A Shared Vision for the Future.

Throughout the launch, speakers emphasized that Makerere University’s future lies in becoming an increasingly research intensive, innovation driven institution that responds to national and global development challenges.

The Strategic Plan 2025-2030 outlines priorities that include strengthening research excellence, promoting innovation and commercialization, expanding digital transformation, enhancing partnerships with industry, and producing graduates equipped to drive socioeconomic transformation.

Its launch marks a renewed commitment by Makerere University to remain at the forefront of knowledge generation and to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s long term development aspirations.

Allan Ainematsiko

I'm Allan Ainematsiko, a fourth year student pursuing Bachelors of Journalism and Communication at Makerere University.

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