General

Minister Muyingo launches USD 12.2Million KOICA project to enhance E-learning at Makerere

Published

11 months ago

February 28, 2025

Chief Guest-Hon. Dr. J.C. Muyingo (4th Left) and Republic of Korea Ambassador to Uganda-H.E. Park Sung-Soo (4th Right) with Left to Right: Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. James Nkata, Ms. Ahn Jihee, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe and Prof. Chun Seyeoung at the KOICA-funded project launch on 27th February 2025. Launch of a US$12.2million Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) funded project to enhance the Distance Education Environment by Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, 27th February 2025, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — Chief Guest-Hon. Dr. J.C. Muyingo (4th Left) and Republic of Korea Ambassador to Uganda-H.E. Park Sung-Soo (4th Right) with Left to Right: Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. James Nkata, Ms. Ahn Jihee, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe and Prof. Chun Seyeoung at the KOICA-funded project launch on 27th February 2025.

The Minister of State for Higher Education, John Chrysostom Muyingo, has launched a project aimed at strengthening Makerere University’s Open, Distance and e-learning (ODeL) capacity.

Addressing guests yesterday (Thursday, February 27, 2025) while officiating the launch of a $12.2million (44billion shillings) Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) grant, Mr. Muyingo, commended the Government of Korea, for supporting Uganda’s Education sector.

“This grant is more than just a financial contribution, it is a symbol of Uganda and the Government of Korea’s strong partnership to advance higher education, digital transformation, and skills development,” Mr. Muyingo, said.

Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo delivers his remarks at the launch. Launch of a US$12.2million Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) funded project to enhance the Distance Education Environment by Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, 27th February 2025, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo delivers his remarks at the launch.***

He highlighted that the grant will support the expansion of online learning platforms, improve access to digital resources, and elevate the overall quality of education which will bridge the gap between traditional and digital learning, something which will make Makerere University education more accessible and flexible for students both within Uganda and beyond.

“With the advancing technological environment, educational institutions have to work smarter and better than before to ensure that educators and learners have the appropriate tools to deliver quality and relevant education,” Mr. Muyingo, explained.

The minister also commended the Makerere University Council and the Vice Chancellor for their visionary leadership in steering the University towards excellence in digital education.

The initiative aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040, which prioritizes human resource development, technological advancement, and expanded access to digital education. According to a recent World Bank report on Uganda’s economic outlook, the country’s economic growth remains stable. However, it highlights the need for greater investment in human capital.

Dr. James Nkata, a University Council Member, represented the Chairperson, Mrs. Lorna Magara. Launch of a US$12.2million Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) funded project to enhance the Distance Education Environment by Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, 27th February 2025, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Dr. James Nkata, a University Council Member, represented the Chairperson, Mrs. Lorna Magara.***

At the same event, the Chairperson Makerere University Council Mrs. Lorna Magara, encouraged students, faculty, and staff members to fully embrace the opportunity, and harness the power of technology to unlock Makerere University‘s full potential and drive a brighter future for Uganda and the region.

In her speech, read by Dr. James Nkata, a University Council member, Mrs. Magara, pointed out that the Makerere takes great pride in the partnership with KOICA, an organization whose dedication to education and development aligns perfectly with the University’s vision.

“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the people of the Republic of Korea, for their trust and generous support of our vision. We are grateful for the continued collaboration and backing of the Ministry of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, whose commitment has been instrumental in making this project a reality,” Mrs Magara, said.

Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, the University Vice Chancellor, noted that the trust of the Korean people in Makerere University is a testament to Makerere University’s reputation as a center of academic excellence and innovation.

The Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe makes his remarks. Launch of a US$12.2million Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) funded project to enhance the Distance Education Environment by Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, 27th February 2025, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***The Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe makes his remarks.***

“The KOICA project, aligns seamlessly with our institution’s strategic goals and Uganda’s national development priorities. By strengthening our ODeL framework, this initiative will enhance teaching and research capabilities at Makerere University while fostering innovation, digital entrepreneurship, and knowledge sharing across borders,” Prof Nawangwe, said.

Voicing his gratitude, Prof. Nawangwe, noted that through the project, the University will establish a dynamic e-learning ecosystem that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

“By equipping students and faculty with advanced digital tools and methodologies, we will drive the development of innovative solutions to address socio-economic challenges in Uganda and the broader region. We are confident that this initiative will have a lasting impact, improving livelihoods, stimulating economic growth, and promoting sustainable development,” Prof Nawangwe, pointed out.

Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, the project Principal Investigator makes his remarks. Launch of a US$12.2million Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) funded project to enhance the Distance Education Environment by Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, 27th February 2025, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, the project Principal Investigator makes his remarks.***

The Vice Chancellor commended Prof. Henry Mwanaki Alinaitwe and Dr Venny Nakazibwe, who have worked tirelessly to bring the project to fruition.

The Project team at Makerere include Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, Dr. Godftey Mayende and Mr. Paul Mugabi.

Presenting the project’s objectives, Prof. Alinaitwe, noted the University is going to establish a state-of-the-art e-learning facility, equipped with advanced tools and resources to support interactive and immersive learning experiences.

Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, a member of the Project Implementation Unit (PIU). Launch of a US$12.2million Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) funded project to enhance the Distance Education Environment by Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, 27th February 2025, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, a member of the Project Implementation Unit (PIU).***

“We will have a masterplan to accommodate a platform and network of resources to guide the infrastructure development. We are also going to establish a state-of-the-art e-learning facility, equipped with advanced tools and resources to support interactive and immersive learning experiences,”

Prof. Alinaitwe explained that his team will create a comprehensive repository of high-quality digital course materials, tailored to the needs of students and faculty.

In his remarks, the South Korean Ambassador to Uganda, Park Sung-Soo, told guests that Korea firmly believes that education is the foundation of national development, and their own economic success was built upon strong investments in human capital.

H.E. Park Sung-Soo addresses the congregation. Launch of a US$12.2million Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) funded project to enhance the Distance Education Environment by Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, 27th February 2025, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***H.E. Park Sung-Soo addresses the congregation.***

“Korea’s experience demonstrates that education is a long-term commitment, often described as a ‘hundred-year plan,’ and we are eager to share our knowledge and expertise with the Ministry of Education of Uganda and Makerere University to support Uganda’s educational advancement,” the ambassador, said.

The envoy explained that digital transformation is no longer an option but a necessity for ensuring equal educational opportunities and fostering future-ready talent that is why the Korean government is fully committed to supporting Uganda in this critical endeavor.

“The Covid pandemic showed us the critical need for flexible and resilient learning environments. As a global leader in information technology and a country that deeply values education, Korea is honored to work with Uganda to enhance digital learning infrastructure and expand access to education for all students, regardless of location or circumstance,” he said.

Prof. Chun Seyeoung the Korean PMC Project Manager makes his remarks. Launch of a US$12.2million Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) funded project to enhance the Distance Education Environment by Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, 27th February 2025, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Prof. Chun Seyeoung the Korean PMC Project Manager makes his remarks.***

On his part, Prof Chun Seyeoung, explained that with the Mak ODel project, the most important engine for the success of Mak ODel project is the people who are destined to be involved and committed.

“Based on the valuable experience expected to be gained from this short term Mak ODel project, Makerere University will be able to digitally transform so that the e-learning paradigm will be applied to all of the academic programmes including masters and doctoral programmes. Ultimately, Makerere University will be the central hub of ODeL for the entire African continent,” Prof Seyeoung, said.

Up Next

Mak Co-operative Society financial performance excites Members: More strategies proposed for continuous growth

Don't Miss

Extension of Applications for Diploma/Degree Holders for Govt. & Private Sponsorship AY 2025/2026

General

Call for Applications: Admission to Postgraduate Programmes 2026/2027

Published

1 day ago

February 4, 2026

Mak Editor

SoL Graduands celebrate after being conferred upon their awards. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites applications for admission to Graduate Programmes (Postgraduate Diplomas, Masters and Doctoral Degree Programmes) for the 2026/2027 Academic Year. Applicants should have obtained at least a first or second class degree (or its equivalent) from a Chartered University at the time of completion. Applicants should also possess a Uganda Certificate of Education (or its equivalent) and a Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (or its equivalent).

Sponsorship:

All Graduate Programmes are PRIVATELY-SPONSORED. Therefore, applicants seeking sponsorship should have their applications endorsed by their respective sponsors where applicable. Applicants should note that the various fees payable to the University indicated for the various programmes EXCLUDE functional fees, accommodation, books, research and other expenses.

Makerere-Advert-for-Graduate-Programmes-2026-2027 Download

View on DGT

General

Simon Mungudit: Mak’s Best Performing Male Science Student & Rising Star in Petroleum Geoscience

Published

2 days ago

February 3, 2026

Hasifa Kabejja

Simon Mungudit emerged the best performing male science student this year. He is set to graduate from Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 24th February 2026 in the Freedom Square.

At just 24 years old, Simon Mungudit from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) has etched his name in the academic history of Makerere University, having emerged as the overall best male student in the Sciences, an achievement earned through perseverance, discipline, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence.

Mungudit is set to graduate during 76th graduation ceremony scheduled for 24^th to 27th February 2026, having attained a CGPA of 4.76 in the Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production. His academic interests-Reservoir Engineering, Petrophysics, and Drilling-reflect a deep understanding of the subsurface sciences that power modern energy systems.

Early Life and Journey to Academic Excellence

Born to Mr. Owor Thomas, a Game Ranger with the Uganda Wildlife Authority at Murchison Falls National Park, and Ms. Lilly Obewun Grace of Akuru Bridge Village, Nyaravur Sub-County in Nebbi District, Mungudit’s journey to academic excellence began far from the lecture halls of Makerere. At Karuma Primary School, Mungudit scored 12 aggregates in the Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE), setting the pace for his future success. He proceeded to St. Daniel Comboni College, Nebbi, where he attained 14 aggregates in 8 subjects at O’ Level. He then joined Namilyango College, one of the best secondary schools in Uganda, where he studied Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) and scored 19 points, results that secured him government sponsorship to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production at Makerere University.

Gratitude to his mentors and sponsors

Behind these milestones lies a story of humility, gratitude and opportunity. Mungudit credits his parents for supporting his primary and O’ Level education and expresses gratitude to TotalEnergies, which provided a full bursary for his A’ Level studies, covering tuition, upkeep, and medical care. He also acknowledges the Government of Uganda for sponsoring his university education, a factor he says motivated him to excel.

At Makerere, Mungudit thrived in an environment that blended rigorous academics with mentorship. He pays tribute to his lecturers, particularly Dr. Arthur Batte, Head, Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, for their unwavering commitment to nurturing students and pushing them to excel.

“I always aimed to excel,” Mungudit says. “Together with a few colleagues, we formed a group and held discussions on a daily. This, coupled with a conducive study environment, prayer, and discipline, enabled us to attain excellent grades.”

Dr Arthur Batte describes Mungidit as a humble yet very intelligent student.

Achievements and Professional Experience

Beyond academics, Mungudit consistently demonstrated expertise in petroleum engineering. In 2024, he led a team that won the Reservoir Modelling Challenge, organized by the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) Makerere University Chapter, earning prize money and a sponsored field trip to the Tilenga Project courtesy of COSL. He was First Runner-Up in the Petro Bowl competitions of 2023 and 2025, a highly competitive petroleum knowledge quiz organized by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Uganda Section. He served as a Student Officer for the SPE Makerere University Chapter in 2023, and in 2024, he chaired the Organizing Committee of the SPE Annual Students’ Technical Conference and Exhibition, helping bridge the gap between academia and industry.

His learning extended beyond the classroom. During his internship, he worked with TotalEnergies, where he applied petrophysics skills to analyze gas-while-drilling data for formation evaluation, hands-on exposure that sharpened his professional competence. At Makerere University, he mastered PetroMod 2018, a critical software tool in oil and gas exploration. After completing his studies in June 2025, Mungudit trained with the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), participating in the 2D seismic acquisition in the Kasurubani Block in Buliisa and Hoima districts.

Mungudit currently works as the Special Projects Coordinator for the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Uganda Section Student Liaison Committee.

Future Plans

Mungudit hopes to work in the oil and gas industry in the upstream sector as a geoscientist. He also plans to pursue further studies in petroleum engineering.

From a village in Nebbi to the forefront of petroleum geoscience, Mungudit’s story is one of an opportunity seized and potential realized. It is a testament to what is possible when talent meets support, and when determination is guided by faith, mentorship, and service. As Uganda’s oil and gas sector continues to evolve, Mungudit stands as a symbol of the skilled, principled professionals poised to shape its future.

The CoNAS fraternity congratulates Mungudit on this noble achievement.

View on CoNAS

General

Press Statement: Makerere 76th Graduation Ceremony

Published

1 week ago

January 28, 2026

Mak Editor

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) presents one of the printed batches of transcripts the Registrar College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS)-Ms. Ruth Iteu Eyoku (2nd Right) as Right to Left: DVCAA-Prof. Sarah Ssali, AR-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Ms. Prossy Nakayiki witness on 28th January 2026. Vice Chancellor's Press Briefing on the 76th Graduation due to be held 24th-27th February 2026 at Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University’s 76^th graduation ceremony will be held from February 24^th – 27^th, 2026, at the Makerere University Freedom Square, starting at 8.30am. During the 76^th graduation ceremony, we shall confer degrees and award certificates to 185 PhDs, 2034 Masters, 6,043 bachelors, 137 postgraduate diplomas and 33 diplomas.

I am proud to announce that in comparison to the 75^th graduation, we have registered a 30% growth in graduate student output. This is a result of our strategic decision to prioritize graduate education per our research-led agenda.

I also wish to announce that the transcripts have been finalized and are ready for pick up. Today, I am handing over the ready transcripts to the College principals and can be picked up from respective Colleges even before the graduation ceremony.

Important to Note:

In preparation for the graduation ceremony, the University wishes to note the following:

Pre-graduation clearances
Graduands are reminded to clear all necessary payments such as tuition and all graduation
fees. It is also important to check with your College to ensure your name is on the graduation
list and all mandatory clearances with university officials have been finalized. Note and
internalize the graduation schedule (attached) to know which day you are graduating.
Securing the graduation gowns
Graduation gowns will be issued starting from 2^nd February 2026 from the University Hall (Dinning Hall), Monday to Friday, from 9am to 4pm. To collect your gown, check and ensure your name appears on the Senate Graduation list, present your student number or National ID, and proof of payment for the gown.
Security requirements
- Attendance: For each day of graduation, entrance to the graduation ground will be by invitation only. Graduands will be issued with invitation cards which permits two guests per graduand. Do not come with more than two people or they will not be allowed access to the graduation venue. Graduands are encouraged to arrive to settle at the Freedom Square by 7am on graduation day to for a seamless flow of planned activities including the necessary security checks.
- Prohibited items: Prohibited items include firearms, sharp instruments like mirrors and knives, alcohol, cell or batteries and chemicals, canned food and drinks, laptops, flashes and hard disks, radios including pocket radios, bottled drinks, cameras, large bags or any other heavy items.
- Media: All media and journalists who wish to cover the ceremony must be pre-accredited by the Makerere University Public Relations office or they will not be allowed to access the ceremony venue. The access point for accredited media personnel will be the Senate Building.
- Parking: There will be two designated parking areas; Rugby Grounds for those coming through the Eastern and Main Gate; and the second one is the Makerere University Main Grounds at Makerere College School. For VVIPs, VIPs and procession parking will be at CTF1, Directorate of Legal parking, St Francis and St Augustine parking, JICA and Senate Building.
- Access Control: To ease traffic flow and management, the University has planned three access points to the graduation venue: the School of Social Sciences, Senate Building and the University Swimming Pool.
For help and inquiries
- Starting February 2, 2026, the Academic Registrar ’s Office and Graduation Committee will set up an information tent outside the Senate Building to provide guidance and handle all inquiries pertaining to graduation.