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Mak School of Public Health Leading in Public Health Training, Research, and Community Service

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Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) stands as a pillar of public health excellence in Sub-Saharan Africa. Through research, policy influence, and capacity building, it drives real change—locally, nationally, and globally. With a strong legacy of collaboration with the Ministry of Health and international partners, MakSPH continues to tackle critical health challenges and shape the future of health systems.

Technical Support to National Health Policies and Guidelines

Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) is a pillar of public health excellence in Sub-Saharan Africa, driving change through research, policy influence, and capacity building. MakSPH provides technical support for evidence-based policies and interventions. Its efforts in training and strengthening healthcare systems, particularly in underserved areas, continue to address critical gaps in family planning, maternal health, and other public health priorities.

“Our faculty members bring their expertise to national and global technical committees, advisory boards, and policy-making platforms, ensuring that research findings translate into actionable policies and practices,” reads part of the MakSPH Strategic Plan 2025-2030. This commitment to evidence-based decision-making has fostered extensive partnerships with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international institutions, amplifying the School’s impact on public health.

A New Era of Autonomy and Innovation

Effective January 2025, as granted by the Makerere University Governing Council, the MakSPH started operations as a standalone school, operating with a College status. This marked a fundamental milestone in its evolution. This autonomy enables MakSPH to innovate, broaden its impact, and address emerging public health challenges with greater agility.

Over the past decade, the School has experienced remarkable growth in student enrollment, research output, and strategic partnerships. With its new status, MakSPH is poised to strengthen health systems, advance groundbreaking research, and influence policies that transform lives, solidifying its position as a leader in public health training, research, and service.

Key Impact Programs and Initiatives

MakSPH’s impact is evident through its flagship programs and initiatives, which address a wide range of public health issues:

  • Monitoring and Evaluation Technical Support (METS) Program: Implemented through three core areas—Health Systems Strengthening (HSS), Disease Surveillance and Response (DSR), and Data Science and Informatics (DSI)—the METS program strengthens health systems and improves data use for decision-making.
  • PERSUADE I and II: Funded by the Global Fund, this initiative enhances the capacity of ministries of health in 13 countries to analyze and use program data for HIV, TB, and malaria. It also examines the impact of COVID-19 on disease programming, fostering regional collaboration and data-driven solutions.
  • Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health Operational Research (RMNCAH OR): In partnership with the World Bank Group, this program provided critical operational research to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Global Leadership and Influence

Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) is a leading force in public health training, research, and policy in Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond. Its faculty contribute to global health by shaping policies and driving innovations.

The faculty at MakSPH play an instrumental role in tackling global health challenges and advancing health equity, with their expertise shaping policies in vaccine advocacy, pandemic preparedness, maternal and child health, environmental health, and non-communicable diseases.

By offering leadership and technical advice in international organizations, they ensure our research translates into actionable policies, and this strengthens health systems and empowers communities, especially in low-resource settings. Through research and capacity-building in infectious and non-infectious diseases, reproductive health, and sustainable development, MakSPH collaborates with national and global partners to drive real-world impact.

As board members, chairs, and advisors in leading international organizations, they help advance evidence-based solutions for a healthier, more equitable future. Here are some of faculty and their key roles as of January 2025:

Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze: Represents the Research and Technical Health Institutes on Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and serves on the World Health Organization (WHO) Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework Advisory Group. She is also a member of the Advisory Board for the Declaration of Research Assessment (DORA) and Co-Chair of the University of Oslo Lancet Commission on Global Governance for Health.

Dr. David Musoke: Co-Chair of the Community Health Workers Thematic Working Group, President-Elect of the International Federation of Environmental Health, and Member of the Technical Advisory Group of the Community Health Worker (CHW) Central.

Dr. John Bosco Isunju: Board Member of the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA).

Dr. Esther Bayiga Zziwa: Member of the WHO Technical Advisory Group (TAG) on Motorcycle Safety.

Dr. Frederick Oporia: Member of the WHO Technical Advisory Group (TAG) on Drowning.

Prof. Ssengooba Freddie: Member of the Medical Research Council (MRC) UK, the Applied Global Health Policy Research Board (AGHRB), and the NIHR’s Global Health Research Programme Board. He also serves on the Science Advisory Committee for the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust and the African Advisory Committee on Health Research and Development (AACHRD) for the WHO-Afro Office.

Assoc. Prof. Peter Waiswa: Independent Advisor to the WHO Director-General through the Strategic and Technical Advisory Group for Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health and Nutrition (STAGE). He is also a Technical Advisory Group Member for Small and Sick Newborns, Newborn Health Exemplars in Global Health, and Countdown 2030. Additionally, he serves as a Board Member of the ADARA Group and Director of the INDEPTH Network Maternal Newborn and Child Health Working Group.

Perez Nicholas Ochanda: Board Member of the International Society for Pharma-economics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR).

Dr. Suzanne Kiwanuka: Board Member of AFENET.

Assoc. Prof. Elizabeth Ekirapa: Board Chair of AMREF Uganda, AMREF Health Africa.

Assoc. Prof. Frederick Makumbi: Member of the Steering Committee for the International Union for the Scientific Study of Populations (IUSSP) Panel on Rethinking Family Planning Measurement with a Reproductive Rights and Justice Lens.

Prof. Nazarius Mbona Tumwesigye: Deputy President of the Association of Researchers in Substance Use in Africa (ARSUA).

Dr. Victoria Nankabirwa: Member of the WHO Immunization and Vaccines-related Implementation Research Advisory Committee (IVIR-AC).

Assoc. Prof. Noah Kiwanuka: Chairperson of the National Biosafety Committee at the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST).

Dr. Edith Nakku Joloba: Member and Uganda Country Representative to the World Medical Association. She is also an Associate Editor and Member of the Editorial Committee for Biomed-Central Journal and Frontiers in Health.

Dr. Roy Mayega: Board Member of the Resilience Africa Network (RAN).

Dr. Phyllis Awor: Co-Lead of a Technical Working Group of Health Systems Global and a Coordinating Committee Member of the Social Innovation in Health Initiatives, Africa.

Prof. Orach G. Christopher: Uganda Chairman of the Canadian Physician Aids and Relief, Vice Chairman of the International Disaster Risk Reduction, and Vice Chairman of the Integrated Research on Disaster Risk Science Committee.

Dr. Dathan Byonanebye: Member of the Africa CDC NCDs Experts developing the “Africa Health Intelligence Report.”

A Vision for the Future

As MakSPH steps into its new chapter as a standalone school, its dedication to improving public health through training, research, and community service remains strong. With greater autonomy, stronger partnerships, and a drive for innovation, MakSPH is ready to tackle emerging health challenges and build a healthier, more equitable future. For more information about MakSPH’s programs, research, and initiatives, visit www.sph.mak.ac.ug.

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About Makerere University School of Public Health:

Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) is a leading public health training and research institution in Sub-Saharan Africa. The School conducts research and provides consultation services to the Government of Uganda Ministry of Heath, various national and international health organizations, as well as bilateral and multilateral agencies involved in health. The School provides graduate, undergraduate and in-service training in public health. MakSPH’s research and capacity-building efforts address a wide range of public health priorities but also look to strengthening health systems, shaping policy, and advancing digital health and substance abuse prevention. The School plays a key role in tackling infectious and non-infectious diseases, including HIV, TB, malaria, and epidemic response. It also focuses on sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health (SRMNCH), emphasizing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and universal health coverage. Environmental and sustainable health remains central, particularly in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).

As public health challenges evolve, the School is expanding into noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), climate change and health, neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), trauma, injury, disability, and urban health. Through research, policy engagement, and community-driven solutions, MakSPH continues to drive meaningful public health impact in further advancing Makerere University mission and vision.

Davidson Ndyabahika

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Sickle Cell Disease Stakeholders’ Engagement calls for raising awareness at grassroots

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Dr. Rosemary Byanyima (Centre) with Prof. Sarah Kiguli (3rd Left) and other stakeholders at the engagement meeting on 24th October 2025. Makerere University, through the College of Health Sciences (CHS), hosted the Sickle Cell Disease Stakeholders’ Engagement Meeting organized by the Center of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease and Neglected Tropical Diseases, in partnership with Enhancing Research Capacity for Sickle Cell Disease and Related Non-Communicable Diseases Across the Lifespan in Uganda (ENRICH) and the Sickle Pan Africa Research Consortium (SPARCo), 24th October 2025, MakSPH Auditorium, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University, through the College of Health Sciences (CHS), hosted the Sickle Cell Disease Stakeholders’ Engagement Meeting on 24th October 2025. The event was organized by the Center of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease and Neglected Tropical Diseases, in partnership with Enhancing Research Capacity for Sickle Cell Disease and Related Non-Communicable Diseases Across the Lifespan in Uganda (ENRICH) and the Sickle Pan Africa Research Consortium (SPARCo). The meeting brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including religious leaders from the Catholic Medical Bureau, Protestant Medical Bureau, and the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, as well as members of academia and public health practitioners.

During the Stakeholders’ Engagement Meeting held under the theme; Addressing Sickle Cell Disease in Schools and Communities, panelists emphasized the importance of early detection and effective communication in managing the disease. One of the speakers highlighted the critical role of medical interns as the first point of contact in identifying symptoms such as unexplained anemia and limb swelling, urging them to take detailed patient histories for timely diagnosis and referral. Another panelist, Ms. Penina Agaba, a lecturer at the Makerere University, underscored the need to translate data-driven research into simple, accessible formats for policymakers and community leaders. She noted that findings should be communicated in local languages through channels such as workshops, radio programs, and community meetings to ensure wider understanding and practical policy action.

Dr. Rosemary Byanyima. Makerere University, through the College of Health Sciences (CHS), hosted the Sickle Cell Disease Stakeholders’ Engagement Meeting organized by the Center of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease and Neglected Tropical Diseases, in partnership with Enhancing Research Capacity for Sickle Cell Disease and Related Non-Communicable Diseases Across the Lifespan in Uganda (ENRICH) and the Sickle Pan Africa Research Consortium (SPARCo), 24th October 2025, MakSPH Auditorium, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Rosemary Byanyima.

In her remarks, Dr. Rosemary Byanyima, the Executive Director of Mulago National Specialised Hospital, shared her personal and professional commitment to improving the management of sickle cell disease in Uganda. A sickle cell warrior herself, Dr. Byanyima revealed that Mulago is planning to establish a medical campus that will offer specialized care, including hip replacements for patients suffering from sickle cell disease. She also noted that the hospital has supported the establishment of several service centers in Mukono General Hospital, Pallisa District, and Kayunga, aimed at bringing services closer to the communities. Dr. Byanyima urged all stakeholders to work together to raise awareness, increase testing, and encourage early healthcare seeking among those affected by the disease.

The panel discussions at the Sickle Cell Disease Stakeholders’ Engagement Meeting underscored the shared responsibility of all sectors in creating a more inclusive and informed society for people living with the condition. The conversations, moderated by Dr. Deo Munube and Ms. Evelyn Mwesigwa, explored how schools, faith institutions, and communities can work together to support those affected. Speakers emphasized the need for inclusive school policies that accommodate children with sickle cell disease—such as allowing extra clothing, flexible restroom access, and special exam arrangements—alongside guidance and counseling services to combat stigma and nurture self-esteem. They also stressed the importance of honesty from parents in disclosing their children’s health conditions to enable appropriate care.

Panelists pose for a group photo after their session. Makerere University, through the College of Health Sciences (CHS), hosted the Sickle Cell Disease Stakeholders’ Engagement Meeting organized by the Center of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease and Neglected Tropical Diseases, in partnership with Enhancing Research Capacity for Sickle Cell Disease and Related Non-Communicable Diseases Across the Lifespan in Uganda (ENRICH) and the Sickle Pan Africa Research Consortium (SPARCo), 24th October 2025, MakSPH Auditorium, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Panelists pose for a group photo after their session.

From a broader perspective, panelists like Mr. Kajiiko Shafik from the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council highlighted the potential of faith-based structures to advance community sensitization and advocacy. The discussions collectively called for greater collaboration between the Ministries of Education and Health, improved psychosocial support, and stronger legal and policy frameworks to ensure that every child and adult living with sickle cell disease can thrive in a compassionate and supportive environment.

Panelists included members from UMSC and other agencies. Makerere University, through the College of Health Sciences (CHS), hosted the Sickle Cell Disease Stakeholders’ Engagement Meeting organized by the Center of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease and Neglected Tropical Diseases, in partnership with Enhancing Research Capacity for Sickle Cell Disease and Related Non-Communicable Diseases Across the Lifespan in Uganda (ENRICH) and the Sickle Pan Africa Research Consortium (SPARCo), 24th October 2025, MakSPH Auditorium, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Panelists included members from UMSC and other agencies.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Sarah Kiguli, the Director of the Centre of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease and Neglected Tropical Diseases at Makerere University, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for their active participation and thoughtful contributions. She noted her optimism about the existing systems that can be leveraged to strengthen collaboration and awareness efforts, saying, “I’m happy that there are systems already in place that we can use to engage everyone on this cause.” Dr. Kiguli emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in the fight against sickle cell disease, adding, “It is impossible for us here in Makerere to reach everyone, but I love the message of ‘train the trainers’ so that sensitisation work can be efficient and far-reaching.”

Prof. Sarah Kiguli. Makerere University, through the College of Health Sciences (CHS), hosted the Sickle Cell Disease Stakeholders’ Engagement Meeting organized by the Center of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease and Neglected Tropical Diseases, in partnership with Enhancing Research Capacity for Sickle Cell Disease and Related Non-Communicable Diseases Across the Lifespan in Uganda (ENRICH) and the Sickle Pan Africa Research Consortium (SPARCo), 24th October 2025, MakSPH Auditorium, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Kiguli.

Makerere University’s continued commitment to public health research extends beyond academia into real community impact. Through the College of Health Sciences, the University has strengthened partnerships with the Ministry of Health and regional hospitals to enhance early screening, diagnosis, and management of Sickle Cell Disease. Recent efforts include supporting the expansion of the national Sickle Cell Registry and developing community-based counselling programs to raise awareness at the grassroots level. Despite progress, Uganda still faces significant gaps in screening and treatment, with thousands of children born each year with the condition remaining undiagnosed. Makerere’s initiatives, therefore, aim to bridge these gaps through research, training, and collaboration with government, faith-based, and cultural institutions to ensure that no child or family faces Sickle Cell Disease in silence.

Eve Nakyanzi

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Makerere, Karolinska Reflect on 25 Years, Encourage University Research Equality

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Photo by Kseniya Hartvigsson.

STOCKHOLMMakerere University and Karolinska Institutet (KI-Mak) marked 25 years of collaboration on Oct. 15, 2025, with a hybrid forum on research equity, highlighting lessons for universities striving toward fair and sustainable global partnerships.

The event, part of the Global Conversations on Sustainable Health, explored the theme, “Exploring Power Dynamics & Equity in Partnerships.” Scholars, policymakers, and university leaders gathered to discuss how institutions can build collaborations grounded in trust, shared ownership, and mutual respect.

Organized by the Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Health (CESH), a joint initiative between Makerere University and Karolinska Institutet, the forum reflected on how equitable partnerships drive progress toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

Hours before the event, Sweden’s Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Maria Håkansson, posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“The partnership between Makerere University and Karolinska Institutet is both dynamic and exemplary in how many years of development cooperation can lay the foundation for mutually beneficial relations between institutions in Sweden and Uganda.”

Front Row (L-R): Prof. Helena Lindgren, Dr. Phyllis Awor, Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, Sweden’s Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Maria Håkansson, Prof. Annika Östman Wernerson, president of Karolinska Institutet, and Prof. Peter Waiswa during their visit to Makerere University on Nov. 11, 2024. Photo by Davidson Ndyabahika
Front Row (L-R): Prof. Helena Lindgren, Dr. Phyllis Awor, Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, Sweden’s Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Maria Håkansson, Prof. Annika Östman Wernerson, president of Karolinska Institutet, and Prof. Peter Waiswa during their visit to Makerere University on Nov. 11, 2024. Photo by Davidson Ndyabahika

Equity, Trust, and Warmth at the Core

Panelists navigated questions of power, agency, and mutual respect. Policymakers, researchers, and academics agreed that successful partnerships depend not only on fairness but also on warmth, the human connection that sustains collaboration and ensures initiatives respond meaningfully to local realities.

Dr. Andreas Göthenberg, executive director of the Swedish Foundation for International Cooperation in Research and Higher Education (STINT), recalled that earlier models often reduced African researchers to “data farmers” in one-directional projects led from the North.

“We now support balanced research collaborations, not capacity building alone,” he said.

Over the past decade, he added, STINT has seen a surge of high-quality proposals from African researchers seeking genuine collaboration.

“When partners bring different expertise and learn from each other, that is when collaborations work well,” he said. “Institutions with fewer resources can now do very advanced things; that’s a real game changer.”

Göthenberg said Africa’s rapid advances in microfinancing, cloud computing, and even space research show that “technology development means institutions with fewer resources can still do very advanced things,” offering lessons for innovation systems in Europe.

Dr. Andreas Göthenberg, executive director of the Swedish Foundation for International Cooperation in Research and Higher Education (STINT), speaking during the Global Conversations on Sustainable Health, in Stockholm. Photo by Kseniya Hartvigsson. Pics failing to upload on Mak News with errors of "resources"
Dr. Andreas Göthenberg, executive director of the Swedish Foundation for International Cooperation in Research and Higher Education (STINT), speaking during the Global Conversations on Sustainable Health, in Stockholm. Photo by Kseniya Hartvigsson

Why Equitable Partnerships Matter

Professors Rhoda Wanyenze and Stefan Swartling Peterson have argued that traditional models often concentrate leadership and funding in the Global North, thereby limiting the agency of Southern partners.

Their work from long-term collaborations in Ethiopia, Uganda, Lao PDR, and Vietnam shows that shifting leadership to where research occurs strengthens local capacity and aligns agendas with community needs.

They demonstrate that equity relies on mutual trust, transparency, and shared decision-making, principles that transform funding into a tool for empowerment rather than dependency. Joint PhD programs, reciprocal staff exchanges, and twinned supervision models have further enabled two-way knowledge flow and reduced brain drain.

“Partnerships grounded in reciprocity, inclusion, and respect are not only ethically sound but also more effective,” Wanyenze said. “They build local ownership, lasting capacity, and context-driven innovation.”

Front Row: Prof. Annika Östman Wernerson, president of Karolinska Institutet (L) and Makerere Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (R) with officials during the hybrid forum. Makerere University and Karolinska Institutet (KI-Mak) marked 25 years of collaboration on Oct. 15, 2025, with a hybrid forum on research equity, highlighting lessons for universities striving toward fair and sustainable global partnerships. The event, part of the Global Conversations on Sustainable Health, explored the theme, “Exploring Power Dynamics & Equity in Partnerships.”
Front Row: Prof. Annika Östman Wernerson, president of Karolinska Institutet (L) and Makerere Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (R) with officials during the hybrid forum.

Championing South-to-South Knowledge Exchange

Associate Professor Caroline Wamala-Larsson, director of the SPIDER program at Stockholm University, underscored that the Global South must set its research agendas.

“The agenda must be set by Southern institutions. Swedish institutions act as collaborators, not directors,” she said.

She cited projects in Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Bolivia, and Mozambique where South-to-South learning has flourished.

Associate Professor Caroline Wamala-Larsson, director of the SPIDER program at Stockholm University, presents at the Global Panel on Equitable Partnerships. Photo by Kseniya Hartvigsson. Makerere University and Karolinska Institutet (KI-Mak) marked 25 years of collaboration on Oct. 15, 2025, with a hybrid forum on research equity, highlighting lessons for universities striving toward fair and sustainable global partnerships. The event, part of the Global Conversations on Sustainable Health, explored the theme, “Exploring Power Dynamics & Equity in Partnerships.”
Associate Professor Caroline Wamala-Larsson, director of the SPIDER program at Stockholm University, presents at the Global Panel on Equitable Partnerships. Photo by Kseniya Hartvigsson

“Bolivians traveled to Tanzania to share source codes from a research management system. Now, the University of Dar es Salaam wants to adopt it,” she said. “Solutions developed within the South often fit local contexts better than Northern models.”

Wamala-Larsson added that innovation and digital transformation have strengthened institutional systems. “We need new funders, private sector partners, and universities to participate equally.” Respect for each partner’s contribution is essential for sustainability,” she said.

Adapting to a Changing Global Landscape

Shifting global priorities and limited funding are reshaping how universities collaborate. Ms. Brenda Wagaba, partnerships officer at Makerere University, noted that while funding remains limited, the Government of Uganda, for instance, has taken steps to support local research through the Research and Innovation Fund. “The government started setting aside money for university research even before the recent cuts,” she said.

“Now, with those cuts, the need for sustained domestic investment is even greater.” She added that such initiatives strengthen the confidence of Southern partners to engage as equal contributors in global collaborations.

Dr. Rawlance Ndejjo, a Makerere University researcher, said local initiatives could help sustain momentum. “Local funding opportunities allow countries to find resources for research and partnerships. Such efforts can improve equity through bottom-up collaborations,” he said.

Dr. Rawlance Ndejjo, a Lecturer and Lecturer at Makerere University, receives a souvenir from Prof. Annika Östman Wernerson, president of Karolinska Institutet. Photo by Kseniya Hartvigsson. Makerere University and Karolinska Institutet (KI-Mak) marked 25 years of collaboration on Oct. 15, 2025, with a hybrid forum on research equity, highlighting lessons for universities striving toward fair and sustainable global partnerships. The event, part of the Global Conversations on Sustainable Health, explored the theme, “Exploring Power Dynamics & Equity in Partnerships.”
Dr. Rawlance Ndejjo, a Lecturer and Lecturer at Makerere University, receives a souvenir from Prof. Annika Östman Wernerson, president of Karolinska Institutet. Photo by Kseniya Hartvigsson

Göthenberg noted that new opportunities lie in multidisciplinary work. “Many of the challenges we face today demand broadly defined solutions,” he said. “Multidisciplinary projects lead to broader societal impact and stronger partnerships.”

He also pointed to Africa’s demographic advantage: “With its young population and rapid innovation, Africa is driving technological development in ways that can benefit both continents.”

Equitable Partnerships Deliver Results

Wagaba said engaging communities early is key to success. “When we engage communities early, we can bridge the gap between large-scale interventions and local acceptance. Whether it’s water, vaccines, or health infrastructure, success depends on understanding immediate community priorities,” she said.

She cautioned that top-down projects often fail to deliver lasting impact.

“You may build a vaccine plant or develop a vaccine, but if a community’s immediate need is safe water, your intervention will falter,” she said, adding that warmth, respect, and open communication are as critical as technical expertise.

Makerere Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe highlighted tangible results from Sweden’s long-term support.

Makerere Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe presenting during one of the engagements with the KI team to commemorate 25 years of partnership in Stockholm. Photo by Kseniya Hartvigsson. Makerere University and Karolinska Institutet (KI-Mak) marked 25 years of collaboration on Oct. 15, 2025, with a hybrid forum on research equity, highlighting lessons for universities striving toward fair and sustainable global partnerships. The event, part of the Global Conversations on Sustainable Health, explored the theme, “Exploring Power Dynamics & Equity in Partnerships.”
Makerere Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe presenting during one of the engagements with the KI team to commemorate 25 years of partnership in Stockholm. Photo by Kseniya Hartvigsson

“Under the SIDA program, 500 PhD students were trained, all of whom returned to Uganda,” he said. “The program made them feel at home while gaining knowledge abroad. Without mutual respect, equity will always face challenges.”

Prof. Annika Östman Wernerson, president of Karolinska Institutet, said sustainable partnerships depend on continuous engagement.

“Every collaboration begins with people meeting. Warmth and curiosity are crucial between individuals and institutions,” she said. “Equity is not static; it requires continuous work. Trust and transparency are critical.”

MakSPH Partnership Officer Ms. Brenda Wagaba Mugarura receives a souvenir from Prof. Annika Östman Wernerson, president of Karolinska Institutet, in Stockholm, Sweden. Photo by Kseniya Hartvigsson. Makerere University and Karolinska Institutet (KI-Mak) marked 25 years of collaboration on Oct. 15, 2025, with a hybrid forum on research equity, highlighting lessons for universities striving toward fair and sustainable global partnerships. The event, part of the Global Conversations on Sustainable Health, explored the theme, “Exploring Power Dynamics & Equity in Partnerships.”
MakSPH Partnership Officer Ms. Brenda Wagaba Mugarura receives a souvenir from Prof. Annika Östman Wernerson, president of Karolinska Institutet, in Stockholm, Sweden. Photo by Kseniya Hartvigsson.

A Global Model for Sustainable Partnerships

The 25-year collaboration between Makerere University and Karolinska Institutet demonstrates how long-term, equitable partnerships can strengthen research systems and inform policy.

As Nawangwe put it:

“Students return home, communities benefit, and research informs global health policy. This is a model of how equity and trust drive sustainable partnerships.”

Makerere University and Karolinska Institutet teams celebrate after Vice Chancellor Barnabas Nawangwe and President Annika Östman Wernerson signed the renewed MoU, extending the partnership to 2030. Photo by Kseniya Hartvigsson. Makerere University and Karolinska Institutet (KI-Mak) marked 25 years of collaboration on Oct. 15, 2025, with a hybrid forum on research equity, highlighting lessons for universities striving toward fair and sustainable global partnerships. The event, part of the Global Conversations on Sustainable Health, explored the theme, “Exploring Power Dynamics & Equity in Partnerships.”
Makerere University and Karolinska Institutet teams celebrate after Vice Chancellor Barnabas Nawangwe and President Annika Östman Wernerson signed the renewed MoU, extending the partnership to 2030. Photo by Kseniya Hartvigsson

The Makerere–Karolinska (KI-Mak) partnership shows how universities, funders, and governments can work together fairly and Like many others working in this field, the Center recognises that there is still much to learn and discuss about how partnerships can continue to evolve through openness, dialogue, and shared reflection.

As Makerere and Karolinska look to 2030, their renewed agreements promise more than ceremonial goodwill. The two universities will intensify exchanges between students and faculty, expand joint research, share academic output, and organise lectures, conferences, and workshops. They will also open new paths for training, scientific collaboration, and shared learning. After 25 years, the partnership has proven that long-term cooperation can endure and excel with mutual respect, steady investment, and a clear purpose.

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Davidson Ndyabahika

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TWAS recognises Dr. Angelina Mwesige Kakooza for her research

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Dr. Angelina Mwesige Kakooza, Associate Professor of Paediatrics in the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health receives her award.

Dr. Angelina Mwesige Kakooza, Associate Professor of Paediatrics in the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences (MakCHS) received the 2025 TWAS-Fayzah M. Al-Kharafi Award in Medical Sciences. She was recognised for her research on neurodevelopmental disorders – particularly epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and nodding syndrome – and for advancing policy and research, mentorship, as well as local community interventions to enhance children’s health.

The award was given at the recent 17th General Conference of The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil under the theme ‘Building a Sustainable Future: The Role of Science, Technology, and Innovation for Global Development.’ Organized in partnership with the Brazilian Academy of Sciences (BAS) and TWAS, the conference brought together leading scientists, policymakers, and institutional leaders from across the global South and beyond.

In her remarks after receiving the award, Dr. Kakooza said, “This award highlights the importance of neurodevelopmental disorders which are a great health problem worldwide, often diagnosed late and treated poorly,” said Kakooza. “It affirms my contribution to science in Africa, strengthens advocacy for gender equity in science and education and makes me a role model for others, increasing my influence in the scientific community.”

Associate Professor Angelina Mwesige Kakooza.
Associate Professor Angelina Mwesige Kakooza.

Dr. Angelina Kakooza Mwesige is a Ugandan scholar with over 25years teaching experience whose research focuses on neurodevelopmental disorders in children centred on their epidemiology, early screening, identification and community based interventions in Uganda. Her current areas of research cover studies on early detection and interventions for young infants at high risk of neurodevelopmental delay and disability in Nepal and Uganda; development of community engagement projects to empower adolescents living with epilepsy in Uganda reduce stigma in their communities; as well as development and testing of an interactive epilepsy smart phone application to improve resilience among them.

TWAS is a global merit-based science academy based in Trieste, Italy, and administered as a UNESCO Programme Unit. Read more here: https://twas.org/

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Zaam Ssali

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