Education
Celebrating Prof. Livingstone Walusimbi’s Legacy: A Call for Linguistic Innovation and Digital Transformation
Published
2 months agoon

Makerere University College of Education and External Studies in partnership with the Buganda Kingdom Ministry of Heritage and Palaces hosted an inaugural memorial lecture to honour the late Professor Livingstone Walusimbi, whose ground breaking contributions to African languages have left an indelible mark on the field. Themed “Building Sustainable Futures: Bridging Prof. Walusimbi’s Linguistic Legacy with Digital Transformation,“ the event provided a profound moment of reflection on the transformative power of language and its pivotal role in shaping societies.
Held on February 27, 2025 at Makerere University School of Public Health Auditorium, the memorial lecture provided a befitting platform to celebrate Prof. Walusimbi’s legacy and selfless service in advocating for and advancing the recognition of Luganda and African languages at Makerere University and other academic institutions. The month of February is dedicated to mother tongues and African languages. It was therefore a perfect decision to hold the inaugural memorial lecture during the month of February. According to Wikipedia, the International Mother Language Day is a worldwide annual observance held on 21st February to promote awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity and to promote multilingualism.
The hybrid lecture featured Anthems led by Buddo Senior Secondary School, a prayer led by Rev. Juliet Ssekamate from Wampeewo Church of Uganda, and a powerful poem with words that symbolized the good works of Prof. Walusimbi and a pledge by those he mentored and the future generations to keep his legacy alive, recited with love and emotion by Mr. Aloysius Matovu Joy (a former student of Professor Walusimbi), speeches, a keynote speech and a panel discussion.

The lecture brought on board dignitaries from Buganda Kingdom and other cultural institutions, the family of Prof. Walusimbi, the academia, scholars, educators, learners from primary schools, students and teachers from various secondary schools, institutes and universities, Bakayimbira Dramactors, the media, individuals mentored by Prof. Walusimbi, alongside leading experts in linguistics. The lecture presented a golden opportunity to honor his legacy while exploring the continued relevance of his work in the context of today’s rapidly advancing digital age.
Prof. Livingstone Walusimbi’s academic journey was marked by an unwavering dedication to linguistic excellence and education. Born on 23rd March 1935, his early experiences in the Ugandan school system during the 1940s and 1950s laid the ground work for what would become a lifelong vocation in education. Beginning his career as a Grade III teacher at the National Teachers’ College in Kyambogo in 1958, he demonstrated from the outset a deep-seated passion for teaching and learning-an attachment that would drive him to pursue advanced studies abroad, ultimately earning him a certificate from Leicester University in 1962, a diploma from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1969, and culminating in a master’s degree in Linguistics in 1971 followed by a PhD in 1976.
Through these rigorous academic pursuits, Prof. Walusimbi not only solidified his place as a distinguished scholar, but also laid the foundation for his lifelong contributions to linguistics and language education.

Beyond his academic achievements, Prof. Walusimbi played a pivotal role in integrating Uganda’s indigenous languages into the university’s curriculum. Understanding the crucial need to preserve and promote the nation’s linguistic heritage, he spearheaded the introduction of courses in Luganda, Runyakitara, Ateso, and Luo. His efforts not only enriched the academic landscape at Makerere University, but also made a significant contribution to the cultural vibrancy of Uganda’s higher education system.
The Chief Guest, Owek. Joseph Mulwanyammuli Ssemwogerere, former Katikkiro of Buganda Kingdom, lauded Prof. Walusimbi for his tireless efforts in promoting African languages, particularly Luganda, which continue to shape Uganda’s linguistic landscape. Speaking on behalf of the Katikkiro of Buganda Kingdom, Charles Peter Mayiga, Owek. Mulwanyammuli offered profound reflections on the pivotal role of language in preserving culture and driving socio-economic development.
At the core of his address was the critical role of language in defining identity and fostering unity in the community. “A community without language and culture is a lost group,” Owek. Mulwanyammuli stated, emphasizing the necessity of nurturing indigenous languages as vital to the socio-economic transformation of societies. African languages, he argued, are not only markers of identity, but also powerful tools for development, promoting community cohesion and progress.
The former premier celebrated Prof. Walusimbi’s remarkable contributions, noting that he was a steadfast advocate for the academic recognition and preservation of African languages, particularly at a time when many dismissed them as unworthy of scholarly attention. Prof. Walusimbi’s groundbreaking work to have Luganda and other indigenous languages taught at universities has created a lasting impact, resulting in a generation of experts in these fields. His unwavering commitment has shaped the academic landscape, leaving behind a legacy of linguistic scholars continuing his mission.
Owek. Mulwanyammuli also addressed a contemporary challenge—the misconception that native speakers of a language are automatically experts. He stressed the importance of formal education in indigenous languages, particularly to guide the youth who are increasingly influenced by social media and globalization. “We need people like Professor Walusimbi to guide us, especially the youth,” he remarked, underscoring the need for academic support in teaching indigenous languages and culture.

Owek. Mulwanyammuli thus called for continued research into the relationship between indigenous languages, culture, and development. “We need to move with the times,” he urged, highlighting the potential of integrating indigenous languages into the evolving digital landscape. By doing so, he believes African languages can play a pivotal role in the continent’s economic and political transformation, serving as bridges to new technologies and innovations.
In her keynote address, Ms. Margret Nankinga, Coordinator of Luganda, Lusoga, and Lugwere Languages at the Language Commission of the African Union, emphasized the contributions of Prof. Walusimbi to the teaching of Luganda and African languages at Makerere University and other Universities as well as key issues of cultural identity, education and technological advancement.
She highlighted the impact of colonial-era policies that sought to diminish the role of mother tongues in education, labeling them as hindrances to academic success. These attitudes, which punished children for speaking their native languages, still re-occur today, inhibiting the growth of linguistic diversity. She stressed that Prof. Walusimbi defied these odds, dedicating his career to proving that African languages—specifically Luganda—could be vehicles for higher education and intellectual discourse.
She portrayed the significance of linguistic literacy, urging a revitalization of indigenous languages in both educational and technological contexts. Ms. Nankinga highlighted how, despite the historic stigmatization of mother tongues, languages such as Luganda have demonstrated adaptability. Prof. Walusimbi’s pioneering work in introducing Luganda at the university level exemplifies the potential of African languages to carry complex and high-level knowledge.

Drawing attention to the challenges of the 21st century, she warned of the digital divide, where African languages are at risk of being excluded from the digital revolution. “Are we capable of migrating our languages into the digital sphere?” Ms. Nankinga asked. She emphasized that in an age where social media, artificial intelligence, and ICT dominate global communication, it is crucial that African languages are not left behind. To preserve their cultural heritage and ensure their relevance in the future, African languages must evolve alongside technology.
“In this migration, someone may be sitting right next to you, yet they’re not truly present. They are in another world—the world of social media. Their attention is consumed by social media. Their body may be here, but their spirit and everything else have already migrated—that’s the term they use. So, how do we ensure that as they migrate, they carry our language with them? How do we ensure they carry our cultures? How do we ensure that our indigenous knowledge also migrates to the digital world, to social media, and the Internet?” she questioned.
Ms. Nankinga also underscored the importance of policy reform, calling for a shift in attitudes toward language education. She advocated for policies that provide economic value to indigenous languages and support their integration into the digital landscape. The example of the Bible being translated into 22 Ugandan languages was a powerful illustration of the richness of these languages and their capacity to convey complex ideas. Yet, much more needs to be done, she argued, particularly in the realms of scientific research and technological innovation.
She advocated for collaborative efforts among universities, researchers, and policymakers to bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and modern innovation. “If we are to evolve, let us start with our languages,” Ms. Nankinga guided. She also pointed out the need for researchers to present their findings in African languages, making academic knowledge more accessible and relevant to local communities.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, emphasized the significant impact of Prof. Walusimbi’s work on both the academic and cultural realms. He remarked that when Prof. Walusimbi joined Makerere University as a tutorial fellow in 1972, he entered an academic environment that had not yet fully recognized the intrinsic value of Ugandan and African languages. Prof. Walusimbi advocated for the inclusion of indigenous languages in the university curriculum, beginning with the introduction of Luganda as a formal subject in 1976.

The Vice Chancellor stated that Prof. Walusimbi’s academic journey at Makerere University exemplified both scholarly excellence and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of indigenous languages. His rapid progression from tutorial fellow to lecturer in 1975, senior lecturer, and ultimately, the first Ugandan to attain a professorship in linguistics in 1992, stands as a testament to his dedication and intellectual rigor. He explained that Prof. Walusimbi’s contribution to Makerere University extended far beyond his exemplary academic achievements.
“Recognizing the importance of community engagement, he established platforms such as the Baganda Nkobazambogo Students Association and co-founded the Luganda Language Society (Ekibiina ky’olulimi oluganda). These initiatives not only nurtured linguistic scholarship, but also promoted cultural pride and heritage among generations of Ugandans. His persistent outreach has indelibly changed the cultural and educational landscape of our nation,” Prof. Nawangwe said.
Prof. Nawangwe announced the University’s exciting new initiative that is aligned to integrating technology with language preservation. He highlighted a research project by researchers at Makerere University at the College of Education and External Studies who were developing an application to transcribe the Luganda language in real-time. This tool was designed to enable those with hearing impairments to read spoken Luganda on their screens. Prof. Nawangwe stated that this project was a true reflection of the kind of research-driven innovation that Prof. Walusimbi had championed throughout his life.
Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies represented by Prof. Paul Muyinda Birevu, acknowledged Prof. Walusimbi’s instrumental role in establishing the Department of Humanities and Language Education at the College. He stated that Prof. Walusimbi’s visionary leadership played a pivotal role in integrating rigorous linguistic scholarship with progressive pedagogical practices, creating a strong foundation for the study of languages. He added that by championing interdisciplinary research, Prof. Walusimbi set a benchmark for academic excellence in language education.
“His foresight and leadership were critical in leading these language studies in our curriculum. Through incorporating rigorous traditional linguistic scholarship in progressive pedagogical practices, he not only established a robust academic foundation for the study of languages, but also set a standard for interdisciplinary research. His commitment to multi-term education has reshaped education practices in Uganda,” Prof. Anthony Mugagga stated.
The Principal noted that Prof. Walusimbi was at the forefront of advocating for policies that promoted language instruction in local dialects, ensuring that Ugandan and other indigenous languages were integrated into formal education. This advocacy helped position language as more than just an academic discipline but as a fundamental tool for cultural preservation and social cohesion.

On a personal note, Prof. Mugagga shared that Prof. Walusimbi was not just an outstanding academic but also a compassionate mentor whose guidance left a profound impact on many scholars, including himself. He credited the late professor for instilling in him the belief that education transcends textbooks and lecture halls. According to him, Professor Walusimbi’s mentorship emphasized the importance of curiosity, identity, and ethical responsibility in academia. He noted that the late professor’s dedication to blending traditional values with innovative educational practices made him a model educator who fostered equity, intellectual rigor, and mutual respect among students and colleagues alike.
The Minister for Heritage and Palaces in the Buganda Kingdom, Dr. Anthony Wamala acknowledged the lasting contribution of Prof. Livingstone Walusimbi to the development of his mother tongue, to be specific Luganda.
The Minister described Prof. Walusimbi as the “father of modern Luganda language,” underscoring his pivotal role in ensuring that the study and teaching of Luganda received the academic recognition it deserved. “Through his effort in advocacy and mentorship, the teaching of our own language gained recognition at this great centre of academic excellence,” the Minister said.
The Minister emphasized that Prof. Walusimbi’s contributions went far beyond academic scholarship. His work laid a critical foundation for the continuity of Uganda’s heritage and cultural identity. “It is therefore incumbent upon us, the living, to protect and extend the vision and leadership of Professor Walusimbi,” the Minister urged, stressing the need for continued efforts in supporting the teaching and further development of Luganda.
Taking note of the modern technological advancements today, the Minister highlighted the potential to use these tools to further the transmission of Luganda. “We are blessed to live in a world with numerous technologies that we can exploit to pass on our language,” he remarked, pointing to mobile applications as one example of how technology could be harnessed to make learning and teaching Luganda more accessible, especially for younger generations and those from outside the region wishing to learn.

The Minister called on everyone, to not only celebrate Prof. Walusimbi’s achievements, but also to commit to embodying the values he championed. “Let us strive for excellence in our pursuits, serve our communities with proportion, and use our knowledge to build a more just and equitable world,” he stated. By doing so, the Minister affirmed that Prof. Walusimbi’s legacy would continue to inspire and guide future generations in the preservation and growth of Uganda’s linguistic and cultural heritage.
As the first recipient of a PhD in Luganda from Makerere University and the only professor specializing in the subject, Prof. Fred Masagazi Masaazi, the Chairperson of the Organizing Committee for the inaugural lecture and a former student of Prof. Walusimbi praised his unwavering commitment to the development of Luganda and other African languages. He underscored the significance of Prof. Walusimbi’s work in advancing linguistic scholarship. He expressed the collective aspiration to see other Ugandan and African languages develop to the level of Luganda, highlighting how the late Professor’s efforts extended beyond Makerere University to impact the broader linguistic and educational landscape.
He said, “It is our wish to see Uganda and other African languages develop the way Luganda has developed. We are here to instruct on work that has been done by Prof. Livingstone Walusimbi.”
Prof. Masagazi Masaazi applauded the invaluable contributions of Uganda’s language teachers, recognizing their role in sustaining and expanding linguistic education through research, teaching, and publication. He further reflected on Professor Walusimbi’s groundbreaking achievements, explaining that his mentor did not merely study languages for academic interest, but worked tirelessly to develop structured programs in Luganda. Prof. Walusimbi, initially trained in English language and linguistics, conducted extensive research and pioneered the creation of Luganda language programs.

Mr. Aloysius Matovu Joy, a multifaceted Ugandan artist, one of the directors of Bakayimbira Dramactors and a former student of Prof. Walusimbi, in a poignant poetic tone called the populace to preserve and nurture the Luganda language, the mother tongue of many Ugandans. He re-echoed the importance of passing the language on to future generations, encouraging parents to teach their children not just to speak it, but to gain expertise and qualifications in it. He called for a broader recognition of the language, urging for books and knowledge in Luganda to multiply, thus safeguarding its future.
He recounted the invaluable role Professor Walusimbi played in his life, describing him as a nurturing figure who never let his students wither but instead helped them flourish. “He watered us, and we blossomed,” said Mr. Matovu, highlighting how the professor instilled in his students a profound love and respect for Luganda. According to Mr. Matovu, it was Professor Walusimbi who helped elevate the language, allowing it to surpass others, especially those that historically sought to suppress it.
Mr. Matovu praised Professor Walusimbi for being a fountain of wisdom, comparing him to a stone that, once ordinary, transformed into a mighty rock that stood out among others. “You became a father, mother, and grandparent to us, shaping us into the people we are today,” he said, conveying deep respect and admiration. He also underscored how Prof. Walusimbi not only made his students experts in the Luganda language, but also helped them become teachers and leaders in their own right.
Dr. Alice Joy Nabalamba, daughter of the late Prof. Walusimbi, on behalf of the family, expressed deep gratitude for the recognition of her father’s legacy. She emphasized that Makerere University was more than just a workplace for her father—it was his second home for over four decades. She extended special thanks to the organizing committee for their unwavering commitment to ensuring that Professor Walusimbi’s work is celebrated and remembered.
Reflecting on his career, Dr. Nabalamba described her father as more than an educator; he was a mentor and a guardian of language and culture. His belief that language is deeply intertwined with identity and heritage fueled his relentless efforts to preserve indigenous languages. As an advocate for linguistic preservation, his work extended beyond academia to global platforms such as UNESCO, where he collaborated with experts to safeguard endangered languages. Dr. Nabalamba noted that he was acutely aware that the disappearance of a language equated to the loss of history, wisdom, and the very essence of a people.

Dr. Nabalamba called upon the multitude to carry forward her father’s vision. She urged scholars, educators, and language enthusiasts to continue his work by promoting indigenous languages, fostering education, and embracing kindness. In her words, “Today, as we honor him, I know he would not want us to dwell in sorrow. Instead, he would want us to continue with his work—to teach, to preserve, to serve, and most of all, to be kind to one another.”
In a panel discussion moderated by Dr. David Kabugo, the panelists namely Dr. Prosperous Nankindu, Dr. Ronald Kizito, and Prof. Abasi Kiyimba shared insights into the linguistic legacies of Professor Walusimbi and how to continue his work in preserving and promoting African languages in the digital era.
Dr. Ronald Kizito pointed out Prof. Walusimbi’s role in introducing Luganda at Makerere University, which later spread to other institutions. He noted that Prof. Walusimbi’s 1976 PhD dissertation from UCLA continues to be a valuable resource for their work, especially in training computers to recognize the syntax, grammar, and structure of Luganda. He emphasized how this laid the foundation for teaching computers to understand and process Luganda, making it accessible on a global scale. He also shared ongoing efforts at Makerere University College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, where they are working on teaching machines to read, translate, and speak Luganda, ensuring that the younger generation can interact with technology in their native language.

Dr. Prosperous Nankindu mentioned the importance of preserving and promoting Luganda, highlighting the foundational work of Prof. Walusimbi in developing Luganda studies. She acknowledged his efforts in standardizing Luganda grammar and literature, which have greatly influenced language education in Uganda. Dr. Nankindu stressed the need for continued research and technological advancements to ensure that Luganda remains relevant in the digital age. She called for more initiatives to integrate Luganda into modern communication, education, and artificial intelligence, ensuring its sustainability for future generations.
Prof. Abasi Kiyimba focused on Prof. Walusimbi’s great work in developing the Luganda language and its literature. He explained how Prof. Walusimbi helped set rules on how Luganda should be written and spoken correctly. He also worked on creating dictionaries and improving the language for teaching and learning. Prof. Kiyimba called upon the audience to continue researching and using modern technology to keep Luganda strong and relevant in schools and everyday life.
The well-attended lecture moderated by Ms Ritah Namisango and Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke from the College of Education and External Studies, ended with a prayer led by Bishop Hannington Mutebi, a member of Prof. Livingstone Walusimbi’s family.
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Education
University of Zululand Explores collaboration in decolonization of curriculum and teaching of Kiswahili and isiZulu languages
Published
4 days agoon
April 30, 2025
On 29th April 2025, a delegation from the University of Zululand, South Africa led by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Engagement and Transformation), Prof. Byron A. Brown visited the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) at Makerere University to discuss collaboration opportunities specific to decolonization of the curriculum in African universities, teaching pedagogies and re-positioning of African languages in education institutions.
The term decolonization of education is a central theme within the African Union’s agenda 2063, which envisions a united and self-reliant Africa. This agenda emphasizes the need for an education system that reflects African values, knowledge systems, and cultural identities, further supporting the ongoing push for integrating indigenous knowledge into formal education.
Underscoring the value of collaboration between Makerere University and the University of Zululand, Prof. Brown stated that both institutions will be in position to promote African values and knowledge, promote local languages and develop a socially responsive decolonized pedagogy.

It is envisaged that Makerere University’s rich history and impact on the African continent will significantly enrich the University of Zululand’s project aimed at building authentic African universities.
In the morning hours, the delegation from the University of Zululand held a strategic meeting with the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and some members of Makerere University Management. Quoting the proceedings of the meeting, Prof. Brown was pleased to note that Makerere University has ten (10) Colleges and a significant number of Schools and Departments, which will play a central role in the collaboration.
At the core of this interaction was the language question, which is central in the decolonization agenda with several researched opinions and respected voices at the national and global levels advocating for re-positioning of local or African languages.
Consequently, at the College of Education and External Studies, the delegation interacted with staff from the Kiswahili Section under the Department of Humanities and Language Education where issues of knowledge decolonization and exchanges were central.

During the interaction, Prof. Brown highlighted that the University of Zululand is committed to the implementation of the theme that focuses on strong institutions, education and social justice.
Stating the main purpose for visiting the Kiswahili section, Dr. Bongephiwe Myeni Gladness, a Lecturer at the Department of African Languages and Culture, University of Zululand highlighted that they are interested in introducing Kiswahili as one of the African languages at the University of Zululand.
“We have some interventions such as taking Kiswahili to Zululand, working on the online teaching and internationalization program. We are promoting research in African languages. We have students that are doing research in isiZulu,” she said.

Dr. Bongephiwe reiterated that their objective is to create collaborations with African Universities. Highlighting that Kenyatta University and Moi University in Kenya were onboard, they visited Makerere University to interact with the University Management and faculty on matters pertaining to decolonization of the curriculum and academic exchange.
Building on the commitment that the delegation from the University of Zululand had received from the Vice Chancellor and the University Management, Dr. Caesar Jjingo, a Lecturer specializing in Kiswahili language pedagogies and materials development highlighted the readiness of the teaching staff to participate in the collaboration aimed at promoting the Kiswahili and isiZulu languages.
“It was an insightful engagement with the delegation in relation to pedagogy, research collaboration and language students’ exchanges purposely to advance the teaching of Kiswahili and isiZulu languages at the University of Zululand and Makerere University, respectively,” said Dr. Jjingo.

With the short term, medium and long term strategies being undertaken by the College of Education and External Studies to decolonize education in East Africa, the coming on board of the University of Zululand from South Africa expands the spectrum to the African continent.
On 9th and 10th April 2025, the College of Education and External Studies at Makerere University hosted the 3rd East African Teacher Education Symposium under the theme, “Curriculum Development and Decolonization of Education in East Africa.”
Supported by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad), the Capacity Building for Research-Based Teacher Education (CABUTE) project with its partner institutions namely Makerere University, Kyambogo University, University of Bergen in Norway, Western Norway University of Life Sciences and the Uganda National Institute for Teacher Education (UNITE) played a pivotal role in making the decolonization of education a topical issue.
During the symposium, experts called for the integration of indigenous knowledge into Uganda’s education system to make learning more relevant, practical, culturally aligned with the communities.
The Keynote Speaker, Prof. Proscovia Namubiru, the Acting Vice Chancellor at UNITE highlighted that much of Africa’s indigenous knowledge was suppressed during the colonial period. She noted that the pre-colonial African knowledge in various fields-was often deemed “satanic” or primitive by missionaries and colonial leaders. This view led to the promotion of Western educational models, which largely ignored and erased the indigenous practices.
Prof. Namubiru advocated for a holistic multi-disciplinary approach that values indigenous practices alongside formal education. “Education institutions must form strong, respectful relationships with communities to ensure that indigenous knowledge is shared appropriately,” she said.
Tackling the key factor of language, Prof. Namubiru decried the practice of suppressing the local languages or African languages, and promoting the foreign languages.
She observed that even when the colonialists left, schools and universities in Uganda have continued to promote foreign languages to the detriment of African languages. She reminded the audience about the practices in different schools where learners are punished for speaking vernacular. According to Prof. Namubiru, referring to local languages as “vernacular” was aimed at making them inferior.
Acknowledging that decolonization of the curriculum should bring on board everyone, a step that involves starting with liberating the mind of each individual, Prof. Namubiru urged the participants to start with the small steps for instance stopping the punishments for speaking “Vernacular” and popularizing the usage of the local or African languages.
Education
Makerere University’s Role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution: A Novel Pedagogical Approach
Published
2 weeks agoon
April 22, 2025By
Mak Editor
By Eutychus Ngotho Gichuru
Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is revolutionizing the world economy by connecting the physical, digital, and biological worlds through technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain. For a developing nation like Uganda with long-standing problems like youth unemployment and poverty, the 4IR presents a chance to bypass development phases and achieve growth that includes all segments of society. This is attainable only if education is revolutionized, particularly in the universities.
Makerere University, which is Uganda’s national university, is well poised to drive the process. If Makerere deploys a novel pedagogy model Transdisciplinary Experiential Learning Ecosystems (TELE), it will produce 4IR leaders, innovate, and tackle local issues. TELE, which is focused on transdisciplinary collaborations, experiential learning, and exosystemic relationships, can be a key enabler of Makerere and Uganda’s 4IR readiness.
Established in 1922, Makerere University has shaped leaders who have carved out the East African future. Its traditional pedagogy framework, which is grounded in silo disciplines, rote memorization, and theory-led priority, has no match to the 4IR demands. Based on the World Economic Forum, 65% of the school children today will find themselves in careers not yet thought of and which require skills such as thinking, adaptability, and being technology literate.
In Uganda, where youth are now unemployed at approximately 13% and even underemployed, the universities must prepare the graduates with the ability to be job creators as well as job seekers. 4IR’s emphasis on networked systems, such as AI and environment, climate, and policy integration, requires a different brain. TELE offers Makerere the chance to reinvent learning so that it can leverage responsiveness to 4IR as well as Uganda’s socio-economic context.
What then is TELE? Transdisciplinary Experiential Learning Ecosystems brings together three ideas: transdisciplinary learning, experiential education, and ecosystem thinking. As opposed to multidisciplinary practices that cross between disciplines, transdisciplinary extends further to build new systems of knowledge. Experiential learning emphasizes problem-solving through practice in the real world, and ecosystem thinking facilitates interdisciplinary engagement among students, lecturers, industry, communities, and government.
TELE envisions Makerere as a vibrant node where learning overflows from lecture halls into industry and society. It is grounded on 4IR-appropriate competencies, creativity, cooperation, and agility but situates education within the Ugandan situation to make it locally responsive yet globally competitive.
The TELE system is novel yet realistic. It involves building nodes transdisciplinary in nature, both physical and virtual, where scholars from every department, engineering, social sciences, medicine, arts, join in solving issues confronting the real world. As an example, a “Smart Agriculture” lab would require students to design IoT-based irrigation, soil testing, and business plans for community ownership.
Experiential learning project work would engage students in semester-long projects, e.g., urban flooding solutions in Kampala or health access in rural areas, using 4IR technologies like AI or blockchain. Ecosystem partnerships with industry (e.g., MTN Uganda), government (e.g., Ministry of ICT), and societies would collaborate to coproduce curricula and fund projects jointly. Access to 4IR tools and far-distanced collaboration would be eased by digital solutions, with restructured assessment based on portfolios instead of traditional exams.
The future potential of TELE is to empower students with capabilities to be participants in the dynamic, networked society of 4IR. 4IR dissects industry silos, therefore a programmer writing software has to learn about user psychology, a doctor must learn AI diagnostics, and a policymaker has to balance data privacy. TELE teaches transdisciplinary learning where the students learn how to address system issues.
As an example, a TELE “Digital Financial Inclusion” project would get economics, computer science, and sociology students to co-create a block chain-based microfinance platform for rural women. This creates technical skills alongside empathy and systems thinking, both of which are critical in 4IR leadership. Unpacking disciplinary silos, TELE makes graduates adaptable as well as able to innovate in Uganda’s economy.
TELE also bridges the skills gap in Uganda, one of the persistent criticisms against its education system. Its graduates lack practical skills, making them less employable. TELE’s hands-on track sidesteps this by bringing students face-to-face with getting to do actual projects. A “Renewable Energy Access” lab, for example, could involve students to design microgrids powered by the sun in off-grid villages where they have to learn about IoT sensors, negotiate with village leaders, and pitch to investors.
These exercises produce graduates with the ability to apply 4IR technologies into practice, from creating AI-powered agriculture machinery to streamlining Kampala garbage management. By linking learning with the market needs, TELE enhances employability and entrepreneurship, the key driver of Uganda’s youth employment.
TELE also positions Makerere as an innovation and entrepreneurship hub powered by 4IR. Africa is blessed with a youth bulge, which is an entrepreneurial talent treasure trove, and the 4IR is driven by innovation. TELE embeds entrepreneurship in the curriculum through ecosystem relationships that expose the students to money, mentors, and markets.
An example of a “Smart Waste Management” initiative would involve a business owned by a student using AI to reduce the cost of garbage collection in Kampala, with the backing of entities such as Safe Boda or the Kampala Capital City Authority. By transforming its culture of innovation, Makerere can unleash an 4IR-drive tsunami of startups that will drive economic growth and make Uganda one of the top technological countries in Africa.
TELE’s localized focus is in that Makerere‘s 4IR contribution draws on Uganda’s circumstances, that is, its agrarian economy, youthfulness, and infrastructural shortcomings. Although as universal as the 4IR, solutions need to be context-specific. A “Precision Agriculture” cluster can design cheap, AI-led innovations for smallholder farmers that address food insecurity and capitalize on technologies from across the world.
Localization also renders Makerere internationally recognized as a leader in implementing the 4IR within African settings. Apart from that, TELE’s digital platform is also leveling the playing field for learning by utilizing web-based modules and virtual labs to reach rural students or students unable to access conventional schooling, as per the 4IR slogan of inclusivity.
Initiating TELE requires visionary and risk-taking leaders. Makerere can begin with a pilot, with two transdisciplinary institutions e.g., “Smart Cities” and “Digital Health” with 50 students each, backed by faculty staff and industry players. Curriculum would include TELE projects, accrediting short courses and experiential learning in 4IR skills such as coding or AI ethics. Partnership with Google Africa would offer finance and skills, with support from digital infrastructure such as a virtual 4IR Lab enabling virtual learning. Next, Makerere would move to the phase where there would be replicated centers, the faculty trained in transdisciplinary practice, and cutting-edge policy reform to embrace TELE-based evaluations as a vehicle for inducing long-term sustainability.
Makerere University stands at a crossroads. The 4IR requires a new kind of graduate who is flexible, creative, and can handle complex systems. With the adoption of Transdisciplinary Experiential Learning Ecosystems, Makerere can re-engineer its pedagogy to meet these needs in order to prepare graduates to drive Uganda’s 4IR. TELE focus on transdisciplinary collaboration, experiential learning, and ecosystem partnerships aligns with bridging the skills gap, encouraging entrepreneurship, and domesticating foreign technologies. While Uganda seeks to capitalize on the 4IR to achieve inclusive growth, Makerere‘s embrace of TELE can also position it as a beacon for innovation inspiration in Africa, whose destiny to learn maps the course into progress and prosperity.
Eutychus Ngotho Gichuru is a Doctoral Student at College of Education and External Studies, at Makerere University.
Education
Makerere University Hosts 3rd East African Teacher Education Symposium: A Regional Call to Decolonize and Re-imagine Education
Published
3 weeks agoon
April 11, 2025
In a continued effort to champion regional dialogue on educational transformation, Makerere University, together with its partners under the Capacity Building for Research-Based Teacher Education (CABUTE) project hosted the 3rd East African Teacher Education Symposium (EATES) from 9th to 10th April 2025, under the theme “Curriculum Development and Decolonization of Education in East Africa.”
The symposium brought onboard participants from local and international academic institutions, researchers, policymakers, and development partners to reflect on teacher education and curriculum reform.
Organized through the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad) supported CABUTE project through a collaborative effort involving Makerere University, Kyambogo University, the Uganda National Institute of Teacher Education (UNITE), the University of Bergen in Norway, and the Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, the symposium fostered dialogue on decolonial perspectives, pedagogical innovation, and cross-border collaboration in reshaping education to reflect African realities.
In her keynote address, Prof. Proscovia Namubiru Ssentamu, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Designate at the Uganda National Institute for Teacher Education (UNITE) stressed that decolonization must begin at the individual level. She articulated that true transformation requires internal reflection and personal change, stating, “Decolonization starts with us—each one of us. It begins from within.” She warned against championing decolonization in word while remaining mentally and structurally tied to colonial systems, likening such contradictions to “wolves in sheep’s clothing.”

Prof. Namubiru highlighted how education plays a central role in shaping identity, development, and progress, arguing that African education systems must reclaim and integrate indigenous knowledge. She pointed out that despite post-independence reforms, colonial legacies persist, particularly in the continued use of foreign languages in education—an indication that the colonial past still holds.
“Despite significant advancements in educational access and quality, remnants of the colonial curriculum persist, prompting calls for frameworks rooted in indigenous and African perspectives. The continued use of foreign languages reflects this lingering colonial history. Curriculum development is central to this transformation—if you want to touch a nation, go through education,” Prof. Namubiru stated.
Prof. Namubiru questioned the absence of African symbols and tools in curriculum development spaces. “For instance where are the cooking pots?” she asked. Prof. Namubiru called for a radical restructuring of curriculum to reflect African realities. She categorized curriculum into three types: informal, non-formal, and formal. Informal curriculum, she explained, is spontaneous and rooted in community life, taking on the form of pre-colonial African education, driven by oral traditions and lived experiences. Formal curriculum, by contrast, is rigid, institutionalized, and focused on structured learning, often overlooking the value of informal knowledge. Non-formal curriculum exists outside traditional academics—such as cultural galas and extra-curriculum activities—but wondered whether these are meaningfully integrated into higher education. She criticized the rigidity of formal education, stating that even at the kindergarten level, it is disconnected from children’s real-life.
Prof. Namubiru underscored that curriculum design must begin with the needs of learners and society. She guided that curriculum design should not exclude the voices of teachers who implement it. “Teachers must be seen as co-creators, not just implementers,” she noted. She thus defined decolonization as the replacement of colonial knowledge systems with local and culturally grounded content, advocating for culturally relevant pedagogies rooted in African philosophies like Ubuntu, Ujamaa, and Pan-Africanism, describing them as essential pillars in reclaiming African identity and educational empowerment.
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe represented by Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi called for urgent reflection and action in the education sector. He emphasized the need to rethink the evolution of education, especially within the current discourse on decolonization. Referring to the theme of this year’s symposium, he described it as “particularly timely,” offering a vital chance to reshape educational frameworks by integrating local histories and addressing global challenges.
“This event is special because it has undoubtedly become a cornerstone in the region,” Prof. Buyinza noted, “providing us with a platform to reflect on our successes and explore ways to transform future education.”

Prof. Buyinza highlighted the fast-paced global changes driven by technology and globalization, urging education systems to adapt to the trends. “The issues at hand are evolving quite fast. We live in a dynamic society, and therefore the aspiration for the future needs really critical thinking and reflection,” he said. He underscored the importance of lifelong learning and strategic positioning of African institutions to lead transformative progress.
Prof. Buyinza warned against lagging behind in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, just as Africa did in previous revolutions. “We live in a digital age, and we must keep pace with rapid advancements. The first, second and third industrial revolutions left us lagging. The fourth should not leave us behind!” He stressed the need to “revolutionize and reshape” the curriculum to prepare students for this era, integrating essential subjects such as English, mathematics, music, and foundational education.
He recognized the long-standing support from the Royal Government of Norway, which has funded infrastructure and academic initiatives at Makerere since the 1960s, including the construction of some buildings at the University. He also acknowledged the contributions of University of Bergen, other Ugandan universities, and international partners like the Western Norway University of Applied Sciences.
He urged participants to actively engage in the symposium’s discussions: “Let us embrace the opportunity to exchange knowledge, challenge prevailing paradigms, and explore new pathways for the future of education,” he said, officially declaring the symposium open.
Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, specified the urgent need to decolonize African education, particularly in curriculum development. He explained that despite some progress, African education systems lag in fully embracing indigenous knowledge and cultural values.
Citing the Catholic Church’s shift in the 1950s to include African languages, music, and drumming in worship, Prof. Mugagga argued that religious institutions have outpaced education systems in decolonization efforts. “The church decolonized itself by, first, allowing indigenous languages to be used in their services. So, I think we are very late—extremely late. The church, which introduced formal education, has decolonized itself,” he stated.

He challenged educators and policymakers to question the philosophical foundations of current curricula, invoking thinkers like Franz Fanon, Walter Rodney, and Paulo Freire. “Are we humanizing ourselves or dehumanizing ourselves? Are we freeing ourselves from oppression? How can I be decolonized if I am still wearing a necktie?” he posed.
Prof. Mugagga observed that the neglect of African folk songs in favor of Western ones in schools is indicative of the broader problem in African education: the lack of meaningful representation of indigenous culture and knowledge. He disclosed that decolonization goes beyond content—it also requires transforming teaching methods. According to him, teachers must be retrained to adopt learner-centered, culturally relevant pedagogies rooted in African traditions, shifting away from colonial-era methods.
In his thought-provoking address, Prof. Steinar Saetre, Principal Investigator of the CABUTE Project, expressed pride in the symposium’s evolution into a regional platform for educators and stakeholders to reflect, challenge norms, and envision a better future. He urged participants to ask critical questions: “Whose knowledge are we teaching? Whose voices are we prioritizing? What kind of society are we shaping through education?” Highlighting that teachers are more than content deliverers—they are culture bearers and community builders—he called for curricula to be continually interrogated and contextually grounded.
Prof. Saetre critiqued the lingering colonial influences in education systems, including language, assessment models, and epistemologies introduced under British rule. “Colonization is not just a thing of the past—it can take new, less visible, yet still powerful forms today,” he warned. He pointed to digital education tools shaped by Western, market-driven values as a modern example, acknowledging their benefits but cautioning against deepening inequalities where access is uneven.

Recognizing the potential of digital platforms for inclusion and collaboration, Prof. Saetre highlighted the need to assess them critically to avoid inadvertently deepening educational inequalities — particularly where access remains uneven. He said that in a decolonized perspective, the digital revolution in education is a double-edged sword which offers opportunities, but only if we engage with it critically, contextually, and equitably.
Drawing from Norway’s experience, he noted a national shift away from excessive screen use, with renewed focus on printed books and foundational skills—signaling that even digital leaders are reassessing what matters most in education.
Though European, Prof. Saetre rejected the notion of being an outsider in decolonization efforts. He stressed that “decolonization is not solely an African responsibility, but a global one,” urging educators to reflect on their own assumptions, cultural biases, and inherited worldviews that often go unexamined.
Emphasizing dialogue and collaboration, he championed sincere cross-cultural conversations as key to creating more inclusive educational models. He encouraged integrative approaches that blend indigenous and Western knowledge, balance digital and printed resources, and stay locally relevant while embracing global collaboration.
In his remarks, Prof. Mathias Mulumba Bwanika, Dean of the School of Education at Makerere University, connected historical curriculum practices with current reforms. Reflecting on the symposium’s theme, he noted its alignment with ongoing regional innovations in curriculum and staffing.
Prof. Mulumba Bwanika, a key contributor to Uganda’s competence-based curriculum (CBC), described it as the best the country has ever developed. Unlike the former content-based approach, which focused on rote learning and fluency in colonial languages without imparting practical skills, he said that the CBC centers on the learners and equips them with relevant, real-world competencies.

“Before the introduction of the competence-based curriculum, East African countries and Africa in general followed a traditional content-based curriculum which emphasized content over competence. One of the most notable outcomes of the content-based approach was that its recipients could speak the colonial language fluently, yet often lacked the practical skills and competences needed in the world of work,” Prof. Mulumba Bwanika said.
He cited CBC adoption timelines across East and Central Africa—highlighting Uganda’s official adoption in February 2020—and stressed the importance of instruction in familiar languages. He recalled the initial exclusion of local languages in Uganda’s CBC and how it took two years of advocacy to have them integrated.
Underscoring the pivotal role of teachers, Prof. Bwanika praised the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC) for the retooling efforts, but called for continued structured training for both in-service and pre-service teachers. He affirmed that curriculum development is an ongoing process that must evolve to meet learners’ changing needs.
Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, the Country Coordinator of the CABUTE Project, highlighted the initiative’s core objectives: strengthening postgraduate teacher education, building research capacity among teacher educators, promoting gender inclusion, and fostering stakeholder engagement. He elaborated that the symposium’s theme, “Curriculum Development and Decolonization of Education,” was a vital step toward transforming teacher education in Uganda.
Prof. Muyinda noted that the CABUTE project is designed to align teacher education with the competence-based curriculum introduced in Uganda in 2020, ensuring relevance to current educational demands. “Through this symposium, we are committed to advancing the objectives of the CABUTE project, ensuring that teacher education remains relevant, inclusive, and transformative,” he stated.

He extended appreciation to the Norwegian government for its support, acknowledged the efforts of the project team, and commended the local organizing committee for successfully coordinating the symposium.
As the opening session of the symposium concluded, participants engaged in a rich and open dialogue that illuminated critical challenges and opportunities within Uganda’s education system. The key insights included:
- Teacher Exclusion in Reforms: Participants expressed concern that the 2020 rollout of the competency-based lower secondary curriculum lacked meaningful input from teachers, leaving many unprepared and disengaged in the implementation process.
- Colonial Legacy in Education: Several participants lamented the lingering colonial influence, highlighting how local languages and cultural practices are often devalued—even by teachers. This has created a divide between urban and rural learners and undermined efforts to preserve indigenous heritage.
- Role of Teachers as Change Agents: It was emphasized that teachers must lead societal transformation rather than being driven by outdated community expectations. A shift in teacher training and mindset is crucial for meaningful decolonization.
- Implementation Gaps in Curriculum Reform: Teachers reported that the competency-based curriculum, though well-intentioned, is poorly implemented due to lack of retraining and resources. Without proper support, reforms risk failure, similar to past initiatives.
- Marginalization of Indigenous Languages: There were strong concerns about the continued punishment of students for speaking native languages and the lack of written material and literature in indigenous tongues. Participants warned that losing these languages equates to losing cultural identity and history.
- Community Skepticism and Parental Influence: Resistance from parents who equate quality education with Western ideals hinders the acceptance of indigenous knowledge in schools, complicating reform efforts.
- Digital Exclusion and Language: Participants observed that the global digital shift—especially in areas like AI and content creation—further sidelines communities that lack content in local languages.
- Mockery and Undervaluing of Local Languages: Students interested in studying local languages often face ridicule, revealing a societal bias that discourages linguistic and cultural pride.
- Barriers to Indigenous Language Research: A shortage of linguistic resources and skepticism about who can research indigenous languages limits academic exploration. Yet participants emphasized that language understanding, not ethnicity, should define research legitimacy.
Recognizing the value of individual efforts, the participants underscored that systemic change was essential for genuine decolonization. Making reference to the entrenched colonialism, the participants agreed that decolonization is a gradual process requiring resilience, unity and continued resistance.

Tackling the challenges facing the adoption of the curriculum (CBC), Mr. George Wilson Ssabavuma, a curriculum specialist and developer at NCDC noted that resistance to change spans across stakeholders including school owners, teachers, learners and parents. He explained that the major issue is that 64% of the schools in Uganda are privately-owned, and many of these schools lack the necessary resources to effectively implement the new curriculum. This has led to hesitation and in some cases, outright resistance to the adoption of the new curriculum.
He pointed out that only 38% of the teachers have been adequately trained to implement CBC. This lack of training among educators, particularly in the practical application of new teaching methods presents a significant obstacle.
Noting that the transition is not solely the responsibility of curriculum developers, Mr. Ssabavuma informed the participants that the Ministry of Education and Sports must play an active role in ensuring that teachers are properly trained, school heads understand their duties, and ensuring that schools receive access to the resources that they require.
“The involvement of all stakeholders including the School administrators is essential for successful implementation of the competence-based curriculum. Without this collective effort, the expected results will remain elusive,” said Mr. Ssabavuma.
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