General
WIPO calls for Utilisation of International Patent System
Makerere University on Friday 6th September 2024 hosted the second World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) roving seminar, which called for effective utilisation of the International Patent System by Universities in Uganda. The seminar held in collaboration with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) in the Senate Conference Hall was preceded by a courtesy call on the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi who represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. The Vice Chancellor is attending the Australia Africa Universities Network (AAUN) and the Africa Down Under (ADU) conferences in Perth, Australia.
Welcoming participants to the seminar, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe thanked WIPO and URSB for choosing Makerere as one of the host institutions, noting that Intellectual Property (IP) education and management holds the key to tapping into ripple effects of research generated by universities and other institutions. Citing the example of Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) that started as an academic project, he noted that institutions ought to embrace IP so as to unlock the benefits that come with commercialization of their research outputs.
“As the person in charge of finances at Makerere, I would be extremely happy if the revenue portfolio of our institution can increase as a result of commercializing our research” Prof. Alinaitwe remarked.
Delivering the opening remarks, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi thanked WIPO representatives Ms. ‘Nyalleng Pii and Mr. Yinghua Chen for journeying all the way from Geneva, Switzerland to take part in the roving seminar for Ugandan Universities. He equally thanked URSB Registrar General, Ms. Mercy Kainobwisho for partnering with Makerere to deliver the crucial training.
“At Makerere University, we are committed to becoming a research-led institution that contributes to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation. However, as we continue to produce cutting-edge research and groundbreaking innovations, it is vital that we also build the capacity to protect the intellectual property that emerges from our work” remarked the Acting Vice Chancellor.
Prof. Buyinza noted that the seminar provides an opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of how patent systems operate, how patent information can be accessed and utilized, and how protection of intellectual property can be strengthened. “Patents are not just about protecting innovations; they are a rich source of technological information that can inspire further innovation and help avoid duplication of efforts in research.”
Noting that the seminar aligns perfectly with Makerere University’s strategic objective to strengthen her research and innovation ecosystem, Prof. Buyinza said “Our goal is not just to generate knowledge, but also to ensure that the knowledge we create can be transformed into tangible products, technologies, and services that contribute to national development.”
He concluded by reiterating that it was only by protecting intellectual property through patent systems, that institutions would secure the value of their innovations, attract industry partnerships, and create opportunities for commercialization.
In her remarks, Ms. Kainobwisho, an alumna of the School of Law, thanked the Academic and Administrative staff for upholding Makerere’s brand of academic excellence. In the same breath, she apprecaited the University leadership for restoring the Ivory Tower, as the Main Administration Building is popularly referred to, back to its original glory. She shared that the Ivory Tower was one of the first registrations as an Industrial Design when the Industrial Property Act 2014 was enacted, and commended Makerere for registering its graduation gown, anthem and a number of other research outputs as well.
“On our register, we have Makerere University leading all universities as well as research and development institutions in terms of the Intellectual Property components that are registered; there are close to 70 or 80 registrations that belong to the university” remarked the Registrar General.
Despite this commendable leadership by Makerere, Ms. Kainobwisho noted that Universities still face a number of losses by not embracing IP. She singled out; inability to attract investments, industrial parks, potential partnerships, grants, publication opportunities and startups as well as lost job creation opportunities as some of the setbacks.
The Registrar General therefore expressed URSB’s aspiration to see more students embrace IP education at the college level so as to be better equipped to meet marketplace demands. She argued that without IP education, many continue to struggle to start businesses and create jobs.
“As the National Intellectual Property Office and as URSB, we want to position Uganda as the best destination in terms of Intellectual Property protection, generation, promotion and enforcement. So join us in the IP struggle so that we can all get there” she concluded.
Ms. ‘Nyalleng Pii who represented the Director General WIPO, Mr. Daren Tang acknowledged Makerere University as a reputable brand on the African continent, noting that a number of Professors in her home country of Lesotho trace their academic roots back to the institution. She explained that the purpose of the roving seminars was to raise awareness of effective utilization of the International Patent System amongst universities in Uganda.
“Today’s presentations will cover an introduction to the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), a treaty that is administered by the World Intellectual Property Organisation and that offers applicants a streamlined and uniform procedure for filing for patent applications globally in currently 157 member states” said Ms. ‘Nyalleng.
She added that the PCT facilitates public access to a technical information related to their inventions through WIPO’s Patent Scope database, which also enables applicants to make full searches of the entire collection of international and national applications.
“Our hope is that today’s presentation will challenge us all to continue to promote better utilization of the patent system for the benefit of the university, the researchers and community at large” added Ms. ‘Nyalleng, who concluded with a quote from the Director General WIPO.
“Today as the agents of IP growth are becoming more global and IP’s role in the modern world is becoming more central, we are poised to enter yet another chapter in its development. WIPO is excited to be your partner on this journey and to work together with all of you to use the IP to transform great ideas into assets that will change all of our lives for the better. Let us build for the future”
Mr. Daren Tang, director general, WIPO.
The Makerere edition of the roving seminar coordinated by the Acting Director, Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT), Prof. Robert Wamala was preceded by one at Busitema University on 4th September 2024 and will conclude with one at Mbarara University of Science and Technology on 10th September 2024.
The seminar covered topics such as;
- URSB Services and the Patent System in Uganda – by URSB
- Overview of the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT); Patents and their importance for universities and research institutions – by Ms. ‘Nyalleng Pii
- WIPO IP Portal; Access to Patent Information; PATENTSCOPE; E-PCT; IP Diagnostics Tool – by Mr. Yinghua Chen
- Using Patents and the PCT to Obtain Commercial Returns from Research. Some Success Stories – by Ms. ‘Nyalleng Pii
Kampala – Braving the morning downpour, participants started gathering as early as 5:00 AM. University roads were awash with green and gold kits clad by thousands of runners who gathered at the Hill to participate in the 6th edition of the Makerere Marathon that took place on September 27 2026.
Attendance was representative, with students, alumni, corporate teams and distinguished guests present to run under the featured race categories including the 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km, alongside a 3km wheelchair race. These options gave persons of different abilities and fitness levels the opportunity to take part.
All races were officially flagged off at the Makerere Main Building parking lot by various dignitaries from Makerere, and partnering institutions led by the Chief Runner, the Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth. He was joined by the Chancellor of Makerere University and Second Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Crispus Walter Kiyonga.
The other dignitaries that accompanied the Speaker included; Dr Lorna Magara the Chairperson of Makerere University Council, Mr. Mark Anthony Muyobo CEO NCBA Bank Uganda, Mr. Phrase Lubega Managing Director of MTN Mobile Money (U) Limited, and Dr Maggie Kigozi, the Board Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF). Representatives from partner institutions and sponsors for this year’s Marathon were also present to witness the lively flag-off ceremony.
Welcoming the dignitaries who convened in the Vice Chancellor (VC)’s Boardroom, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe echoed Makerere University‘s commitment and deep appreciation for the high-level government and private sector support received during the Marathon.
He reiterated that the institution feels privileged to host the Speaker of Parliament and the Chancellor, who also serves as the Deputy Prime Minister, thanking them for their dedication to flagging off the runners despite the heavy downpour.
The same dedication was on full display throughout all race categories up to the finish line. Large crowds lined the university road sides, cheering wildly, blowing trumpets, and waving flags as the runners made their final sprint. Tired but smiling runners crossed the finish line one after the other, raising their hands in victory.
Impact of the Mak Marathon on Disability Support Centre
The Marathon serves as more than just a sports activity, it comes in as a conduit for institutional progress and student empowerment.
During the Speaker Rt. Hon. Oboth’s guided tour of the Disability Support Centre, the Manager, Ms. Elizabeth Rwabu acknowledged that so far, proceeds from the Marathon have directly transformed their services.
She elaborated, “the Makerere Marathon has been the primary driver of our growth as a centre, allowing us to support approximately one hundred and fifty-five students who rely on our services.”
The highlight of the delegation of distinguished guests and runners visit was a guided tour of the Center’s facilities, where technologies so far secured were displayed and existing as well as future needs were put forth.
She pointed out an all-in-one printer, explaining, “this printer is special because it has regular print. We also use it for large print… and scanning.”
She highlighted the machine used for tactile learning, saying, “we have an embosser here. And when students have their soft copy and hard copy notes, they bring them to the center, and we transcribe them to braille format.”
She also described the emergency solution for mobility, stating, “we also procured electric wheelchairs, which students with disabilities can actually borrow and use.”
Among students who added their voice to Ms. Rwabu’s was Ms. Catherine Nakibuuka, Chairperson of the Makerere University Disability Students Association. She is a student with visual impairment pursuing a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) who volunteered to explain to the Speaker how important some of the machines current in use are;
1. Eye Magnifier – This is a complex machine used to magnify small prints. It assists students who have visual impairments and rely on large print to read.
2. Focus Blue 40 – This is a modern device used for taking notes. It replaces older, large, and noisy Braille machines. It is portable enough to fit in a bag, making it suitable for use in meetings or courtrooms. Additionally, it can connect to a computer to display the Braille information on a screen, allowing sighted individuals to see what the user is reading.
Ms. Nakibuuka expressed deep gratitude for the support received through the Endowment Fund, Makerere University, and the organizers of the Marathon.
She stated, “We love these things,” noting that the Makerere Marathon’s goal to support the center makes education more inclusive.
The sharing by staff and students at the centre moved Dr Maggie Kigozi, who in turn appreciated them noting that “I’m glad to hear we are being useful as the Makerere Endowment Fund” and pledged that the Fund “will continue to work with the centre until they achieve more.”
Institutional Vision
The Chairperson of the Makerere University Council Dr. Lorna Magara acknowledged that the current Student with Disability Support Centre space may not be enough for the entire university.
In the spirit of remedying this, she shared that, “one of our goals is to have these centers in every other department of the university.”
“If we can have four or five or even maybe in every Hall of Residence, a smaller unit like this, then students with disabilities don’t have to walk long distances, that’s our target,” Dr. Magara explained.
Rt. Hon. Oboth Commends Makerere for the Marathon and Inclusivity
The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth thanked the leadership for the Marathon, stating, “we want to thank the leadership of this university for innovative leadership that has brought the sixth Makerere Marathon to fruition.” He added that it is “gaining traction and momentum” and is “going a long way in creating awareness for persons with disability and its other yearly themes.”
While touring the Disability Centre at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Rt. Hon. Oboth addressed the students with disabilities, and emphasised a distinction between sympathy and compassion, noting, “what the students with disability need is not our sympathy. you need our compassion. You need the support. Sympathy will not help because it varies, but compassion remains.”
Regarding Parliamentary support, the Speaker made an individual contribution and also pledged, “as Parliament of Uganda, we are here to support the cause.”
He specifically invited the University to partner with Parliament for future events, saying, “we want to further pledge that for the next Marathon, please work with us through the Clerk of Parliament, so that we can take center stage.”
On a lighter note, he encouraged the students with disability to persevere, remarking, “after all, Makerere University is built on a hill, so every day you climb the hill, you are breaking a barrier. So take those barriers as a hill you are breaking.”
Makerere Marathon from a Student with Disability’s Perspective
Nalumansi Sharon, a student with disability in her third-year pursuing a Bachelor of Applied Psychology secured first place in the 3-kilometer wheelchair race. Beyond her athletic success, Sharon is a passionate advocate for fellow students with disabilities.
In an interview with Makerere Public Relations team, Sharon confessed that her personal motivation to participate in this event was the appreciation of challenges faced by persons with disabilities and desire to contribute to causes that support her peers.
“It feels good to be part of this mobilisation because I also have a disability, and I feel good if I do something that will help my other colleagues,” Sharon confessed.
She added that Makerere University‘s hilly terrain makes mobility difficult but with resilience, students with disability can overcome. She urged donors to contribute toward electric wheelchairs, which would significantly improve students’ ability to study and navigate campus.
Sharon therefore appreciated the Makerere University Endowment Fund for bringing together sponsors and the general public to raise funds for the betterment lives of students with disability at Makerere.
As the conversation deepened, Sharon praised the Makerere Disability Support Center for providing an environment where students with disability can complete coursework, receive guidance, and access printing services, allowing them to focus on their studies without unnecessary distractions.
She concluded by praying that God blesses all who pool their resources for the good of Persons with Disability.
Sponsors’ Inspiration to partner and support Mak Students with Disability
Speaking at the launch on July 1, 2026, Mr. Mark Muyobo, the Chief Executive Officer of NCBA, the Platinum Sponsor of the Makerere Marathon, highlighted that the partnership reflects a shared belief in the power of education to shape the future.
He said “our partnership with Makerere University is founded on a shared conviction that education remains one of the greatest investments any nation can make. For generations, Makerere has produced leaders, innovators and professionals who continue to shape Uganda and Africa. Supporting its future is an investment in our country’s future.”
In an interview, the Managing Director Mr. Phrase Ronald Lubega emphasized that MTN Mobile Money is driven by the belief that every Ugandan deserves the benefit of a modern quality of life.
He stated that MTN aims to positively impact communities within Uganda, ensuring they are healthy, supported, and progressing. By focusing on these areas, the company believes they help communities serve the country more effectively.
Beyond their core mobile money services, Lubega highlights the importance of connecting people through initiatives like sports, which help individuals integrate and network. He explained that these connections are essential for innovation and moving forward.
Organised through the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MAKEF) together with partners, this 6th edition will equip Makerere University’s Disability Support Centre and provide students with disabilities with assistive equipment that enables them to read, type, and hear university assignments and participate more fully in academic life.
This initiative reflects Makerere’s commitment to ensuring that disability does not become a barrier to accessing quality university education.
Photography by Benite Uwase, Public Relations Office, Makerere University
View Flickr Album: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjD68fW
During the afternoon of September 21, 2026, Makerere University played host to regional discussions as students, academics, and government officials gathered to commemorate the International Day of Peace under the theme “Investing in Regional Peace and Trade for Shared Prosperity”.
The event organised by the Makerere University 92nd Guild Security Ministry in partnership with the Global Peace Guild, served as the official launch of the East African Peace and Trade Law Moot Court Competition. The idea was conceived as an annual event where the youth across East Africa will gather to deliberate on the nexus between regional peace and trade in fostering regional integration.
Acting Vice Chancellor (VC) of Makerere University Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga graced the event, welcomed the distinguished guests and set a reflective tone for the day.
Reminiscing about his old days the VC noted, “lecturers were the ones who used to come and talk about politics, economics, and law but somehow, somewhere, things never went well”. He appreciated the Students’ Guild, and all who were involved in organising the celebration and launch for a good job done.
Prof. Mugagga further encouraged students to look beyond the classroom, urging them to engage in critical debates in different sectors while emphasising that peace is a prerequisite for all development.
People anchor Trade – Keynote address
Representing the guest of honor who was the Minister of State for East African Community Affairs Hon. James Magode Ikuya, Dr. Andrew Musiime – Commissioner for Political Affairs, delivered a keynote address.
His entry was that you cannot talk about trade and not talk about people. Trade is done by people, and therefore as a Ministry, they facilitate free movement of people.
Dr. Musiime provided a comprehensive breakdown of the East African Community (EAC) as an intergovernmental organisation.
“So it is an intergovernmental organisation. Therefore, the governments remain with their constitution, the governments remain with their sovereignty, the governments remain with their national boundaries, the governments remain with their national laws, Musiime explained.”
He mentioned that the East African Community is anchored on the four pillars for integration that is the Customs Union, the Common Market, the Political Federation and Monetary Union.
Dr. Musiime equally challenged the students to move beyond theory, urging them to research the EAC treaty and actively participate in regional integration.
In a gesture of togetherness, he told the distinguished guests that the Ministry operates an open door policy for students and those interested in engaging can apply for opportunities across the Ministry’s various departments.
From UPE to the Halls of Parliament
The event also featured inspiring remarks from the National Female Youth Member of Parliament, Hon. Mercy Kanyesigye. Reflecting on her own journey from Universal Primary Education (UPE) to the halls of Parliament, she delivered a powerful message on peace and security.
In agreement with Prof. Muggaga, she linked the day’s theme to the practical realities of trade, noting that sustainable trade can not exist without peace.
“This moot competition is therefore not just academic exercise. It’s a training ground for the next generation of East African traders, lawyers, negotiators, judges, policy makers who will defend the spirit of our East African common market and our custom union”, Kanyesigye told the attendees.
92nd Guild Calls for Embracing Dialogue
Hon. Denis Mabirizi, the Minister of Security for the Makerere University 92nd Guild, underscored the event’s purpose by highlighting that peace is the foundation for justice, opportunity, and cooperation. He then called upon the student community to reject violence and intolerance, urging them to use dialogue and established leadership structures to address their concerns.
Mabirizi also emphasized that universities are not just centers of academic excellence, but places where the leaders of tomorrow are shaped.
“Universities are not only centers of academic excellence, they are also places where future leaders are shaped. The conversations we have, the values we promote, and the decisions we make today will influence the kind of society we create tomorrow. Peace begins with each one of us, Mabirizi noted.”
The Global Peace Guild Initiative
Mr. Joseph Micheal Tenywa, the founder and President of the Global Peace Guild, shared the vision behind the organization. He explained that the Global Peace Guild was born out of a desire to involve young people in the promotion of peace, trade, and regional integration.
“Global Peace Guild is an initiative born out of a desire to have young people get involved into the promotion of peace, trade, and regional integration.”
He reminded the audience that regional integration would only become a reality when young people actively participate in the market and hold policy makers accountable.
“As we commemorate the International Day of Peace, it’s an invitation for young people to get involved, not only in ensuring that there is no violence, but that we also put in place the conditions that take our strength, and these are our economic provisions, we call it trade.”
The launch of the East African Peace and Trade Law Moot Court Competition marks a significant milestone for the student community as it brings together academic rigor with a focus on regional policy.
International Day of Peace is observed globally on September 21, 2026, under the unified United Nations theme: “Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day”. The day emphasizes that achieving lasting peace requires continuous local action, shared civic responsibility, and strategic conflict mitigation to ensure long-term regional development.
-
General1 week agoAR Department Bids Farewell to Mr. Ssentongo and Ms. Akoli
-
General5 days agoCall for Applications: RLRH Graduate Traineeship Programme
-
General2 weeks ago“We are moving in the right direction” Prof Nawangwe to Press
-
Agriculture & Environment2 weeks agoMakerere Hosts Inaugural Falling Walls Lab Competition as Innovators Pitch Solutions to National Challenges
-
Humanities & Social Sciences2 weeks agoProf. Walakira takes over as CHUSS Deputy Principal, pledges research-driven leadership