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
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.
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”.
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.
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.
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.
General
Makerere University Launches First Writing Summer School to Strengthen Professional Writing Skills.
KAMPALA, UGANDA, EAST AFRICA| July 6, 2026.
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.
General
Makerere Launches Strategic Plan 2025-2030 to Drive Research, Innovation and National Development.
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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
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