General
Leadership must be anchored in integrity-Mrs Kagina
Published
7 months agoon
By
Mak Editor
By Carol Kasujja Adii
The former Executive Director of the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), Mrs Allen Kagina, has challenged leaders to exercise integrity not only in words but in action.
Mrs Kagina made the call on Friday 7th March during the 3rd Sarah Nyendwoha Ntiro annual public Lecture held at the School of Public Health Auditorium at Makerere University, where she delivered the keynote address.
The memorial lecture was held under the theme: “Pioneering change and transforming Institutions”
Sarah Ntiro was a trailblazer, a woman who defied societal norms and dedicated her life to advancing education and gender equality. Her story is not just one of personal triumph but a blueprint for how individuals can catalyze institutional and societal transformation.
Delivering her keynote speech, Mrs Kagina noted that when she took on the role of Executive Director at UNRA, she faced challenges because the institution was plagued by inefficiency, corruption and delayed projects, but with integrity and innovations, together with her team they rebuilt UNRA’s credibility.
“Leadership must be anchored in integrity because ethical leadership fosters a culture of accountability and transparency. As a leader, you must create an environment where people feel confident that decisions are made in the best interest of the institution and those it serves,” Mrs Kagina, said.

Mrs Kagina narrated that in order to rebuild UNRA’s credibility, she had to take difficult decisions by removing corrupt and underperforming staff and ensured that the institution was staffed by competent and ethical professionals.
According to Mrs Kagina, no leader can succeed alone. Institutional transformation depends on the collective efforts of individuals committed to the same purpose.
“Investing in people through training, mentorship and empowerment creates a culture of ownership and innovation. When employees are engaged and valued, they become champions of change rather than passive participants,” Mrs Kagina, noted.
Using her leadership journey at Uganda Revenue Authority, Mrs Kagina explained that she learnt that effective leadership is the cornerstone of institutional transformation.
She told the audience that when she joined URA, the institution was struggling with corruption, inefficiency and lack of public trust, together with a small team, they restructured the organization by removing corrupt elements and enforcing transparency at every level something that changed URA’s image.
“We introduced technology to reduce human interference in tax collection. We fostered a culture of accountability and cooperation. These reforms were challenging but they ultimately restored URA’s credibility and set a new standard for public institutions in Uganda,” She pointed out.

Drawing lessons from Ntiro’s life, Mrs Kagina, explained that although Ntiro’s journey was marked by numerous challenges, from systemic gender discrimination to societal resistance, she remained steadfast in her mission, demonstrating that resilience is essential for overcoming obstacles.
“Her ability to persevere, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable barriers, serves as a powerful reminder that change often requires enduring hardship with unwavering determination,” Mrs Kagina, said.
Mrs Kagina noted that one of Ntiro’s greatest legacies is the generation of women she inspired to pursue leadership roles. Noting that by empowering others to lead, Ntiro ensured that her work would continue long after her time.
“Ntiro’s ability to articulate a compelling vision for a more equitable society was central to her success. She inspired others to believe in the possibility of change and to work toward it with passion and commitment. Her leadership demonstrates that a clear, inspiring vision is essential for mobilizing people and driving institutional transformation,” Mrs Kagina, said.
In her closing remarks, Mrs Kagina called upon those in leadership positions to emulate people like Ntiro who demonstrated resilience, advocacy and strategic reforms to transform even the most rigid systems.

During the function, Mrs Lorna Magara, the Chairperson Makerere University Council, said that Ntiro’s story reminds people that true pioneers do not wait for change, they create it, look beyond existing limitations and imagine possibilities that others may not see.
“Mrs Kagina powerfully articulated that transformative leadership is not about being the first woman in the room, but ensuring you are not the last. When women lead with courage and vision, we do not just change organisations, we redefine the very essence of leadership,” Mrs Magara, said.
Mrs Magara, reminded students, researchers and leaders that every challenge they encounter should be treated as an opportunity to reimagine possibilities and shape the future.

Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs/Academic Registrar, Prof Mukadasi Buyinza, pointed out that Ntiro’s story teaches generations that transformative change is not about grand gestures but consistent and principled action.
“Her story reminds us that progress is a collective endeavor. It requires individuals willing to challenge systemic barriers, sacrifice personal comfort and create pathways for those who follow. As we honor Ntiro’s memory, we are called to continue her work to pioneer change, transform institutions and build a more equitable future for Uganda and the African continent,” Prof Buyinza, said.

Moderating the panel discussion, Prof. Sarah Ssali, the Dean, School of Women and Gender Studies Mrs. Allen Kagina her inspiring keynote speech. “Some of the points I kept hearing were reforms, integrity, teamwork, celebrating the pioneers on whose shoulders we stand and most interestingly, those who worked on the ecosystem to make it possible.”
She equally thanked the second panelist Mrs. Elizabeth Mushabe, a passionate gender equity and social justice advocate with over twenty years of experience in community systems strengthening, for richly contributing to the day’s discussion.

Prof. Ssali highlighted two points for the audience to take keen note of in order to address social problems; one, the behavioural transformation that considers the empowerment we undergo as individuals and two, the structural transformation which addresses issues in the ecosystem.
“When you are talking about a girl being empowered to do very well, that is a behavioural approach, when you are talking about putting in place systems, and polices and laws that prevent teenage pregnancy and exploitation, you are talking about the structural thing. We need to operate in both ways and I hope that from the gallant ladies we have in this country, you have learnt how to address issues both behaviourally and structurally” Prof. Ssali counselled.
In her remarks, Dr Ruth Nsibirano, the head of the Gender Studies Department, urged Institutions to work towards inclusive and empowering education processes and practices.

“As the Department of Women and Gender Studies, we take pride in Ntiro’s legacy. We use this day as a platform to celebrate achievements the women of Uganda have made and to stand for the global sisterhood as we advance gender equality and social inclusion,” Dr Nsibirano, said.
Ntiro at glance
Born in 1926 in Bunyoro, Ntiro grew up in a society where opportunities for women were severely limited, but she excelled academically and became the first East African woman to graduate from the University of Oxford in 1951.
Ntiro returned to Uganda and began her career as a teacher. She faced systemic gender discrimination, including being paid less than her male counterparts. In protest, she worked without pay, something which sparked national debate about gender equality.
Her advocacy for girls’ education was rooted in the belief that educated women could drive societal transformation. Her impact extended far beyond her immediate community. Her work laid the Foundation for a more inclusive and equitable education system in Uganda and across East Africa. She inspired a generation of women to pursue leadership roles and challenged deeply ingrained gender norms.
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Makerere and Nelson Mandela University Move to Actualize Existing MoU
Published
24 hours agoon
October 7, 2025By
Eve Nakyanzi
Makerere University on Tuesday, 7th October 2025 hosted a delegation from Nelson Mandela University (NMU), South Africa in the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom in a bid to strengthen academic partnerships and operationalize their existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The delegation, led by Prof. Azwinndini Muronga, Deputy Vice Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Internationalisation, NMU, aimed to turn earlier agreements into actionable collaborations and build sustainable partnerships with various colleges.
The Acting (Ag.) Deputy Vice Chancellor; Finance and Administration, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, provided an overview of the institution’s structure—nine colleges, two schools, and two institutes—while acknowledging the challenges of maintaining excellence amid resource limitations and post-pandemic recovery. He emphasized that collaboration must serve the broader goal of research-driven development, calling for teamwork and resilience among African universities. “We have to work together to sustain high academic standards and contribute to the continent’s progress,” he noted.

Prof. Muronga spoke passionately about the NMU’s “African footprint agenda.” He urged both institutions to start with small, practical projects that can build confidence and momentum for larger initiatives. “We must grow partnerships within Africa first,” he stated, “before we expand globally. True collaboration begins when both sides contribute equally, share capacity, and build self-reliance.”
Prof. Muronga also expressed interest in joint research projects, doctoral supervision, and shared grant applications, noting that NMU and Makerere are strategically positioned to lead regional academic innovation.
In her remarks, Prof. Judy Peter, Senior Director in the International Office at NMU emphasized the University’s commitment to African-centered collaboration and the importance of internationalizing the curriculum and expanding research capacity.
Prof. Peter underscored the importance of student mobility, joint supervision of postgraduate students, and the recruitment of talented African scholars, noting that such exchanges enrich both institutions’ academic communities. She also emphasized the need to internationalize the curriculum, particularly through virtual learning platforms and co-teaching models, to ensure broader accessibility and shared expertise.
Contributions also came from Prof. James Wokadala, Deputy Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), further amplified the need to “start small and build on existing collaborations.” He proposed developing a clear roadmap that defines short-term goals and identifies areas for mutual growth.
From the College of Health Sciences, Dr. Richard Idro, the Deputy Principal highlighted opportunities for fellowship, training and collaboration in clinical subjects, emphasizing the need for practical exchanges that benefit students and staff alike. He also addressed logistical challenges such as transportation and coordination, urging for targeted partnerships that can yield tangible results.

The meeting reaffirmed the universities’ commitment to collaboration in areas including faculty exchange for guest lectures, seminars, and sabbaticals; joint research and grant applications for regional and international funding; co-supervision of postgraduate students; virtual classroom exchanges; curriculum internationalization and exchange of academic materials; and capacity development for academic and administrative staff.
The teams also identified “quick-win” projects that could be implemented in the short term and agreed to establish a joint implementation team to monitor progress. Further discussions will explore funding mechanisms, including the possibility of leveraging programs like Erasmus+, to support student exchange and joint research initiatives.
In his closing remarks, Prof. Muronga reaffirmed Nelson Mandela University’s commitment to ensuring that the partnership yields visible outcomes. Both universities agreed that future engagements will be structured around mutual respect, accountability, and measurable results.
The meeting concluded on a note of optimism, with both institutions expressing confidence that their partnership will not only advance academic excellence but also contribute to Africa’s broader vision of educational and research self-reliance.
The meeting was attended by several officials from Makerere including; Prof. Eric Awich Ochen-Deputy Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze-Deputy Principal, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Prof. Godfrey Akileng-Dean School of Business, Dr. Geoffrey Nuwagaba-CoBAMS, Mr. Martine Rugamba-Ag. Chief Advancement Office, and Ms. Hawa Kajumba-Advancement Office.
General
Vice Chancellor Updates Media on DVC AA Appointment, Acquisitions, Research & Various Issues
Published
1 day agoon
October 7, 2025By
Mak Editor
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe on Tuesday 7th October, 2025 held a press conference to update members of the Media on the; New Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Acquisition of Land in Kyankwanzi, Acquisition of 3 buses from Kiira Motors, Anti-Tick vaccine, Makerere Innovation Hub upgrade, Promotion of Student Freedoms and Responsible Leadership, Student Allowances, and Staff Hires and Exits.
The event held in the Council Room, Main Building, was attended by the DVC AA-Prof. Sarah Ssali, Ag. DVC F&A-Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Academic Registrar-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Dean of Students-Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, Chief Human Resources Officer-Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni, Deputy Chief – Public Relations-Ms. Eunice Rukundo, 91st Guild President-H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James and staff from the Offices of the Vice and Deputy Vice Chancellors.
The proceedings of the Press Conference follow below;
Vice Chancellors’ Press Statement
I welcome the media to this briefing. I would like to start by thanking our staff for their diligent and dedicated service to our University and Country.
In our teaching and learning, Makerere University seeks to respond to real-world problems within clearly defined industries and economic sectors. We align core university interventions with social economic transformation, by leveraging partnerships, technology, creative arts, sciences, research and innovations. We are committed to creating an enabling environment for both students and staff in order to produce graduates who are globally competitive, relevant and responsive to development needs.
To this end, we have made some strides that I would like to share, starting with the introduction of the new Deputy Vice Chancellor – Academic Affairs.
1. Introduction of the New Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)
Makerere University Chancellor Dr. Crispus Kiyonga on September 23rd 2025, appointed Professor Sarah Evelyn Nabwire Ssali as the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs. Prof. Ssali has had a distinguished career at Makerere University spanning over two decades. Until her appointment, she was the Acting Director of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), having previously served as Dean of the School of Women and Gender Studies (2017–2024). She is also the Director of the Centre of Excellence in African Identities under the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA). An accomplished scholar, Prof. Ssali is a Professor of Gender and Development Studies and a prolific researcher. Beyond academia, she has contributed significantly to university governance, and also played a leading role in curriculum reviews and policy reforms.
I warmly congratulate Prof. Sarah Ssali on her appointment and look forward to her leadership in steering academic affairs to greater heights.
2. Acquisition of Land in Kyankwanzi Land
The University is delighted to report that, on September 26th, 2025, Makerere University officially received one square mile (approximately 640 acres) of land from the Government of Uganda. This land, located in Kyankwanzi District, has been earmarked for the establishment of a Makerere University Agro-Demonstration and Training Facility.
This facility will serve as a living laboratory for practical agricultural training, research, and community engagement. It will host demonstration farms, improved livestock breeds, and innovative technologies designed to transform subsistence agriculture into a productive, market-oriented enterprise. Through this initiative, Makerere will train farmers and extension workers in modern farming practices, sustainable land use, pest and disease control, climate-smart agriculture, and agribusiness management.
The Kyankwanzi project aligns with Makerere University’s broader mission to generate and disseminate knowledge that directly impacts communities and supports Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.
3. Makerere Acquires 3 buses from Kiira Motors
I am pleased to announce that on September 27th, 2025, we strengthened our partnership with Kiira Motors Corporation through the acquisition of three modern buses. Of these, two are diesel-powered while the third is an electric bus, specifically brought to ease mobility of students and staff with special needs across campus.
This initiative speaks directly to our core values of inclusivity, equity, and care for all members of the university community. By ensuring that every student and staff can fully participate in academic life, Makerere continues to create a learning environment where everyone can thrive.
Our partnership with Kiira Motors Corporation reflects Makerere’s support for Uganda’s homegrown innovation ecosystem. That Kiira Motors was founded on research from within our own College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), is a demonstration of how university knowledge can be translated into practical solutions that serve society.
We extend our appreciation to the management and team at Kiira Motors for their generous contribution and continued collaboration. Together, we are not only advancing sustainable transport and green technology, but also reaffirming our shared vision of a modern, inclusive, and innovation-driven Uganda.
4. RESEARCH AND INNOVATION UPDATES
i. Anti- Tick vaccine
The College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB) has successfully completed the formulation of an anti-tick vaccine, marking a major milestone in Makerere University’s contribution to Uganda’s livestock sector. The vaccine, which has demonstrated an efficacy rate of 86%, is expected to reduce calf mortality by 14% and significantly improve productivity across the livestock value chain. Uganda’s livestock industry currently contributes 19.4% to the national GDP, valued at approximately USD 17.09 billion.
Once fully developed and approved, the anti-tick vaccine is projected to reduce product losses in milk and meat by 11% and 29% respectively, and cut down on acaricide importation (An acaricide is a chemical substance used to kill ticks and mites). The vaccine is now awaiting clinical trials and regulatory approval from the relevant drug authorities before commercialization.
ii. Makerere University’s Innovation Hub upgraded
In 2022, we established an Innovation Hub dubbed the Unipod, which in 2024 got a grant from UNDP under the Timbukutoo Africa Initiative. The Unipod has now been formally upgraded to Makerere University Technology and Innovations Center (MUTIC) with the mandate to offer support to innovations university-wide.
MUTIC is a state-of-the-art innovation center that nurtures, incubates and accelerates ideas into companies. It has 10 makerspaces including Computer-Aided Design rooms, Textile space, Electrical space, Renewable Energy, E-Mobility, a Multimedia Studio among others.
The Center will be under the administration of a board of Directors chaired by the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration and comprising members from the student body, academic staff, government and the private sector.
5. STUDENT AFFAIRS
Promoting Student Freedoms and Responsible Leadership
Makerere University continues to make deliberate and progressive efforts to enhance student freedoms and participation in leadership.
In a development that reflects Makerere’s continued commitment to empower and nurture responsible future leaders, the University recently made the decision to reinstate open guild campaigns, which had previously been suspended following the tragic loss of a student during campaign activities. This decision was reached after extensive consultations with the Student Guild leadership, guided by our shared desire to restore a vibrant, participatory, and safe democratic culture on campus.
The resumption of open campaigns comes with a renewed understanding and agreement to balance freedom with responsibility, emphasizing peaceful and respectful campaigns that do not disrupt academic programmes or endanger persons, property, or businesses within and around the University.
As an institution that values dialogue, democracy, and responsible citizenship, we recognize that a truly great university must not only nurture academic excellence but also provide a space for free expression and engagement in governance.
Student Allowances
Students received some of their allowances in Quarter One and will receive the balance this quarter as soon as government releases the Quarter 2 funds. Management has met and harmonized with the Students leadership and we have committed to pay.
6. STAFF AFFAIRS
Staff Hires and Exits
There has been some media attention owing to the recent appointments and departures of staff from Makerere University. Allow me comment on this.
At its 769th meeting, the Makerere University Appointments Board appointed twenty-three (23) new members of staff, confirmed fifty-eight (58) members into University service, and also accepted resignations for eighteen (18) members of staff. Most of the colleagues who resigned went to take up other opportunities in various capacities. We congratulate all departing staff and wish them well in their new positions of service.
We recognize that transition is a natural process in all institutions of higher learning. The career growth and accomplishments of former Makerere staff reflects not only their individual achievements but also Makerere’s enduring role as a crucible for leadership and knowledge production.
It is important to acknowledge that while staff inevitably transition out of the University, Makerere maintains a robust recruitment pipeline to ensure that teaching, learning, and research remain uninterrupted. You will, therefore, note that while 18 staff left, 58 were confirmed and 23 joined the University’s service within the same period. Makerere, therefore, continues to demonstrate sound institutional planning and has in no way reneged on our responsibility to safeguard academic continuity for our students and partners.
End.
Agriculture & Environment
Call for Grants to Develop Policy Briefs and Working Papers on Climate-Resilient Agri-Food Systems
Published
2 days agoon
October 6, 2025By
Mak Editor
The Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), in close collaboration with the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), recognizes the vital role of young researchers in shaping Africa’s future. Graduate students, in particular, bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and rigorous research to the climate and agriculture discourse. Yet, much of this knowledge remains locked in academic theses and journal articles, with limited translation into policy and practice spaces where it can have the greatest impact. To bridge this gap, RUFORUM & AGRA are launching a grant opportunity for graduate students
(Master and PhD Candidates & Post-Doctoral Fellows) enrolled in African universities to develop policy briefs and/or working papers on strengthening climate-resilient agri-food systems. This initiative is designed to support students not only to generate high-quality academic outputs but also to translate their findings into actionable recommendations for policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders.
The program will provide educational, skilling, and incubation opportunities, preparing young people; especially young women for the world of work. It will also enhance access to market-relevant training and practical skilling opportunities, enabling youth to gain the competencies needed by the labor market for both self-employment and wage employment. Through this call, RUFORUM & AGRA seeks to empower a new generation of African scholars to contribute directly to national, regional, and continental dialogues on climate change, resilience, and sustainable agri-food systems.
APPLICATION PROCESS
- Applicants must submit an abstract of no more than 500 words through the RUFORUM online application portal (https://rims2.ruforum.org/)
o Instructions for submission can be accessed on this link - Inquiries: cgs[@]ruforum.org
- RUFORUM reserves the right to make final award decisions.
IMPORTANT DATES
Call Opens: September 5, 2025
- Deadline for Abstract Submission: October 15, 2025
- Notification of Selected Abstracts: October 30, 2025
- Submission of Final Policy Brief/Working Paper: December 31, 2025
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