General
Minister Muyingo launches USD 12.2Million KOICA project to enhance E-learning at Makerere
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
“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.
“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.
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.
Hundreds of mourners gathered at St. Augustine Chapel, Makerere University on May 30, 2026 to pray for the soul of Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, the first President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Community at Makerere University.
The requiem mass was filled with emotional tributes celebrating Ruhweza’s life of service, leadership and dedication to community causes. Ruhweza passed away on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Mildmay Uganda Hospital.
Speaker after speaker described him as a humble and visionary leader who was passionate about uplifting others and deeply committed to excellence.
“We thank God for the life of Sylas, for the years he granted him among us, and for the impact he made on countless lives. He carried himself with humility and grace, and wherever he went, he built friendships, inspired confidence, and left people better than he found them,” Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, said during the Mass.
Mr. Rwomiire urged mourners to honour Ruhweza’s legacy by embracing the values he stood for, including integrity, compassion, hard work, service to community, and his unwavering love for Tooro Kingdom.
The main celebrant, Rev. Fr. Charles Lwanga Makoboza, echoed the message in his homily, reminding Christians to remain rooted in Jesus Christ throughout their lives.
“Sylas has gone to be with God, in a place where there is no pain, missed calls, struggle, corruption, betrayal, jealousy and tears. He is in a place with absolute peace. So, in life, never be the cause of someone’s tears, and if you do, seek reconciliation,” Fr. Lwanga, said.
Fr. Lwanga also reminded mourners that what Ruhweza needs most are prayers, not wreaths.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Ms. Grace Kabasita, Ruhweza’s maternal aunt, described him as a loving and dedicated young man whose life touched many people.
“Sylas was a counsellor, teacher, and a brilliant, loveable young man who fitted into every society. His life was marked by service, friendship, dedication, and commitment to the wellbeing of others and his culture,” she said.
Addressing mourners, Prof Justine Namaalwa, the Coordinator of the Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University, noted that though Sylas’s life was cut short, he leaves behind a lasting legacy of service, leadership and impact on the communities he served.
“Sylas, you have gone too soon. But it is well with our souls. May your legacy of Transformative Leadership live on,” Prof. Namaalwa, said.
She thanked the Mastercard Foundation for supporting his education through BRAC Uganda, supporting his university education through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, and nurturing his leadership journey through the Youth Advisory Board.
Ruhweeza at glance
Born on 19th July 1994 to the late Mr. Paul Tinkasimire Paul Adyeeri and Ms. Ategeka Margret Abwooli of Bunyangabu District.
The ninth born of eleven children attended Kaboyo Primary School for his Primary Education, and later joined Fort Portal Secondary School where he sat for his O-Level. He then proceeded to A-Level at Hannah International School.
He joined Makerere University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production in 2022, supported by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme at Makerere University.
At the time of his passing, he was pursuing a Master’s degree at Victoria University.
Leadership, Service and Professional Contributions
Mr. Ruhweza served as Chairperson of the Mastercard Foundation Alumni Network at BRAC from 2020 to 2022, demonstrating transformative leadership and commitment to social change.
He later became the President of the Makerere AlumNet Foundation, an umbrella organization that brings together the Scholars Makerere Alumni chapter.
He worked as an eLearning Support Officer at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) under the e-learning initiative at Makerere University.
He was a member of the Steering Committee of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, representing the Scholars Makerere Alumni chapter.
At the time of his passing, he was serving as the Minister of Information in the Tooro Kingdom, Strategy and Engagement Lead for the Mastercard Foundation Alumni Network-Uganda Chapter, and Programme Associate at the Africa Climate Collaborative, one of the Mastercard Foundation initiatives at Makerere University.
Legacy
Ruhweza is remembered for his dedication to education, leadership, mentorship, and community service. He passionately championed youth empowerment, collaboration, and social responsibility.
His life reflected the transformative power of education, servant leadership, and a commitment to uplifting others.
May Sylas’s soul rest in eternal peace.
General
Makerere University Pushes for Stronger Support for Research Ethics Committees amid Growing Research Demands
By Moses Lutaaya
Makerere University has intensified efforts to strengthen research governance and ethical oversight, with university leaders calling for greater institutional support for Research Ethics Committees (RECs), whose role has become increasingly central to the institution’s research-led agenda.
The call was made during a high-level meeting between University Management and Chairpersons of Research Ethics Committees held at the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom at the Makerere University Main Building on May 25, 2026.
Opening the meeting, the Director of Research Innovations and Partnerships (DRIP), Prof. Robert Wamala, highlighted a number of operational and administrative challenges affecting the effectiveness of RECs at Makerere University.
Prof. Wamala observed that RECs continue to operate with gaps in institutional framework outlining their position within the university governance structure, a gap he said has affected institutional support and long-term sustainability.
According to Prof. Wamala, inadequate facilitation continues to affect the operations of several committees, especially in areas of staffing, administrative coordination, and remuneration for REC administrators.
He also pointed to challenges arising from new regulatory requirements governing the appointment of REC members, particularly the need for appointment letters to be authorized or signed by the Vice Chancellor.
Prof. Wamala further raised concern over the high cost of mandatory accreditation and training processes required by the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST), especially the Good Research Regulatory Practice (GRRP) training undertaken every three years. “Payment for training is too high for individual RECs to cover,” he noted, adding that many committees are struggling to independently raise the money to undertake the training for all their members.
He also emphasized the need for stronger institutional monitoring systems to support timely submission of accreditation renewal applications, oversight of approved research activities, and coordination of REC operations across the university.
In her remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, commended the growing contribution of RECs in advancing Makerere University’s research agenda and acknowledged the concerns raised by Prof. Wamala and committee members.
“There were not very many RECs,” Prof. Ssali said. “So now that we are 10, it is really impressive because it speaks to our cause for a research-led university.” She admitted that despite their importance, many RECs still operate outside the formal university establishment, making staffing and operational support difficult.
“The only challenge that I see is that they are not fully institutionalized. So it is upon units to start them or not to start them,” she explained. Prof. Ssali added that because RECs are not fully integrated into the public service structure of the university, recruiting and remunerating staff through conventional university systems remains complicated. “Hiring for them staff will be a little bit cumbersome because the university will say they are not part of our structure,” she said.
She nevertheless emphasized that university management recognizes the strategic importance of RECs in strengthening ethical research oversight and supporting Makerere’s position as a research-led institution. “RECs are doing a great job of furthering our strategic agenda of being a research-led university,” she noted.
Prof. Ssali explained that the growing reliance on institutional RECs by the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology demonstrates the trust placed in Makerere University’s ethical review systems.
Addressing concerns about the cost and frequency of mandatory training, Prof. Ssali acknowledged the financial burden on RECs but explained that many of the requirements are set by national regulators. “Many of the things you have raised are with National Council, they are not with us,” she said. “We can only pledge to lobby.”
To address logistical challenges associated with training senior academics, she proposed more flexible scheduling arrangements. “For a professor to give you a whole day is going to be a challenge,” she said. “Maybe you can do half days throughout the week.”
Prof. Ssali also encouraged colleges and schools to allocate part of their enhanced research budgets toward supporting REC activities, including staffing, training, and operational facilitation.
She suggested that colleges and schools hosting RECs should directly take responsibility for sustaining them. “For me, that’s the way out — to ensure that the colleges and schools that have RECs take them as their responsibility,” she noted.
The DVC-AA also addressed concerns related to intellectual property rights, Material Transfer Agreements (MTA), and the need for researchers to formally communicate scientific discoveries and innovations to the university to ensure institutional protection and benefit-sharing. “All you are saying is true, but it depends on you as researchers informing the institution that we have made this discovery,” she said.
Prof. Ssali reiterated Makerere University’s commitment to strengthening research governance systems and pledged continued engagement with both university management and national regulatory bodies to address the concerns raised by REC members. “Where they are, they enable research, publication and growth,” she said of the RECs. “Most importantly, they enable us to be ethical with the way we do our things.”
The meeting was attended by chairpersons of the various Research Ethics Committees across Makerere University and affiliated institutions. These included Dr. Ponsiano Ochama from the School of Medicine Research Ethics Committee (SOM-REC), Dr. Moses Ocan from the School of Biomedical Sciences Research Ethics Committee (SBS-REC), Dr. Paul Kutyabami from the School of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee, Dr. David Kyaddondo from the Uganda Cancer Institute Research Ethics Committee, Dr. Stella Neema from the School of Social Sciences Research Ethics Committee (MAKSS-REC), Dr. Joseph Kagayi from the School of Public Health Research Ethics Committee, Dr. Joseph Kateete from the Infectious Diseases Institute Research Ethics Committee, Dr. Fred Okuku from the Uganda Heart Institute Research Ethics Committee, Dr. Kassim Sadik from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Research Ethics Committee, and Dr. Eddy Walakira from the College of Business and Management Sciences Research Ethics Committee.
The discussions reflected Makerere University’s broader ambition to consolidate its position as a leading research-intensive institution while ensuring that ethical standards, accountability, and innovation protection remain central to its academic mission.
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