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Phase 1 of e-Learning initiative at Makerere University registers remarkable achievements

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On Thursday 24th April 2025, the Director of the Institute of Open, Distance and E-learning under the College of Education and External Studies presented the dissemination results of phase 1 of the e-Learning initiative at Makerere University to over 75 participants and key stakeholders.

The dissemination brought on board Members of Makerere University Management, the Principal and staff from College of Education and External Studies (CEES), a representative from the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES), student leaders, the Directorate for ICT Support (DICTS), Mastercard Foundation, Arizona State University (ASU)-USA and a representative sample of staff from academic and administrative units of Makerere University.

The dissemination of results of phase 1 of the e-Learning initiative follows the successful conclusion of the implementation process that kicked off in 2021 and ended in 2024. Phase 1 of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program e-Learning initiative has been implemented by the Institute of Open, Distance and E-learning (IODEL) in partnership with the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs).

Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda presents the findings. Institute of Open, Distance and e-Learning (IODeL), College of Education and External Studies (CEES) disseminating results of phase 1 of the e-Learning initiative at Makerere University, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa supported by Mastercard Foundation, Arizona State University (ASU)-USA, to over 75 participants and key stakeholders, 24th April 2025, Speke Resort Munyonyo.
Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda presents the findings.

Addressing the participants, the Director of IODEL and the Principal Investigator, Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda stated that the overarching goal of phase 1 was to enhance the e-learning capabilities with partner institutions. He elaborated that in phase 1, the Mastercard Foundation worked with 10 universities to digitally transform the teaching and learning processes.

“During the implementation of Phase 1, Makerere University has registered significant achievements in e-Learning. I am glad that you have convened here today during the e-Learning Digital Transformation workshop, to receive the dissemination results as we work together to prepare for Phase 2,” said Prof. Birevu Muyinda.

Phase 1 of the e-Learning initiative provided a platform to strengthen the existing Makerere University e-Learning Environment (MUELE), onboarding of the University leadership, staff and students for the successful implementation of e-Learning initiative, capacity building for staff and students, and involvement of the teaching staff to develop content for online courses.

Stakeholders that took part in the dissemination event pose for a group photo. Institute of Open, Distance and e-Learning (IODeL), College of Education and External Studies (CEES) disseminating results of phase 1 of the e-Learning initiative at Makerere University, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa supported by Mastercard Foundation, Arizona State University (ASU)-USA, to over 75 participants and key stakeholders, 24th April 2025, Speke Resort Munyonyo.
Stakeholders that took part in the dissemination event pose for a group photo.

During the e-Learning Digital Transformation Workshop, Prof. Birevu Muyinda shared the dissemination results of phase 1 of the e-Learning initiative amidst applause from the participants, highlighting the following achievements:

  • Training of 1,280 faculty members
  • Development of 2,579 courses out of 2,560 representing 100.74%
  • Development of four (4) support services modules
  • Capacity building for over 7,000 students
  • Training and recruitment of 32 e-Learning champions
  • Upgrading of the Makerere University e-Learning Environment (MUELE)
  • Acquisition of e-Learning infrastructure namely five (5) multi-media studios, a video streaming server and all in one printers.

Presenting the lessons learned, Prof. Birevu Muyinda informed the participants that top management support significantly contributed to the successful implementation of the program.

On this note, Prof. Birevu Muyinda acknowledged the University Council, the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), the Academic Registrar, the University Secretary, DICTS and the entire leadership at the different levels for the support rendered in the execution of the different activities of phase 1.

Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga contributes to the discussion. Institute of Open, Distance and e-Learning (IODeL), College of Education and External Studies (CEES) disseminating results of phase 1 of the e-Learning initiative at Makerere University, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa supported by Mastercard Foundation, Arizona State University (ASU)-USA, to over 75 participants and key stakeholders, 24th April 2025, Speke Resort Munyonyo.
Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga contributes to the discussion.

In appreciation, Prof. Birevu Muyinda requested the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, and the Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi to convey the message of gratitude to the Top University Management and Central University Management respectively.

Underscoring top management support as a pre-condition for successful digital transformation, he provided a detailed account of the lessons learned in Phase 1. These include:

  • Co-creation: Course co-creation breeds ownership and effective utilization
  • Learning Designers: Learning designers are necessary for the pedagogical design of e-Courses
  • Infrastructure: A robust integrated institutional, staff and students’ infrastructure is vital for successful e-Learning ecosystem
  • Capacity building: Inclusive capacity building for staff and students is essential for successful digital transformation
  • Multi-media Studios: Video content enhances flipped classroom pedagogy. This requires the setup of cost-effective multi-media studios operated by multi-media specialists who also provide ongoing technical support and capacity building
  • Pedagogical Building Design: The design of new buildings in the University should take into consideration all pedagogical and inclusivity requirements
  • Inclusivity: All courses should be designed following the universal design for learning principles
  • Student Support: The success of online courses heavily relies on well structured student support offered by the University (coaches, mentors, facilitators, technicians, career guidance, counsellors) among others
  • Central Unit: There should be a central unit (similar to Arizona State University-ASU’s EdPlus) to foresee the design, development and growth of digital and innovative pedagogy in the University
  • Design thinking: There is need to use design thinking approaches in digital transformation processes in the University
  • Partnerships: There is need to optimize collaborations for institutional growth

Background to Phase 1

The e-Learning Initiative is a program funded by Mastercard Foundation out of the need to address the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic that constrained access and continuity of teaching, learning and community engagement activities at Makerere University.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (3rd Left) with a section of the audience at the dissemination. Institute of Open, Distance and e-Learning (IODeL), College of Education and External Studies (CEES) disseminating results of phase 1 of the e-Learning initiative at Makerere University, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa supported by Mastercard Foundation, Arizona State University (ASU)-USA, to over 75 participants and key stakeholders, 24th April 2025, Speke Resort Munyonyo.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (3rd Left) with a section of the audience at the dissemination.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the teaching and learning in a number of universities in Africa. As the pandemic intensified, the World Health Organisation and the respective countries issued Standing Operating Procedures (SOPs) which limited physical interactions, gatherings and restricted movements. In extreme cases, the respective governments declared a lockdown to reduce the spread of the deadly pandemic. The lockdowns affected a number of Universities, higher education institutions and schools that had to stop operations, close and send students home in order to save lives.

Makerere University continued to conduct online teaching and learning aided by its home grown, Makerere University e-Learning Environment (MUELE), managed by the Institute of Open, Distance and e-Learning under the College of Education and External Studies.

Although MUELE enabled Makerere University to conduct online teaching during the difficult time of the COVID-19 pandemic, the experience called for a robust approach to institutionalize MUELE and online teaching pedagogies.

In its strategic plan, Makerere University committed to providing innovative teaching and learning as well as adaptation to ICT trends. This strategic approach dictated the adoption of a blended approach towards teaching and learning. The COVID-19 period and post COVID-19 challenged Universities to come up with immediate, short-term and long-term measures to institutionalize e-Learning through onboarding of staff and students, creating content for online courses, and acquisition of the required infrastructure and equipment for e-learning.

Fortunately, the Mastercard Foundation issued a call for proposals for universities to compete for funding targeting quality delivery of and access to education during and post the COVID-19 era.

The IODEL team at Makerere University in partnership with the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) seized this golden opportunity and submitted a proposal. Following the competitive processes and strict adherence to the required grant application procedures, Makerere University’s proposal was successful.

With the award of the USD 2million grant, Makerere University embarked on supporting colleges to develop high-quality content and revitalization of the Makerere University e-Learning Environment (MUELE).  The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program e-Learning Initiative was officially launched on Tuesday 20th September 2022 by Prof. Mary Okwakol, the Executive Director of the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) at a colourful ceremony held at Makerere University Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium.

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Press Statement: Makerere 76th Graduation Ceremony

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

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

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

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

Important to Note:

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

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


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Re-Advert for the Position of the Second Deputy Vice Chancellor

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An aerial shot of the Main Building, as taken by a drone over the Freedom Square with Left to Right: CHUSS, St. Francis, St. Augustine and CAES Buildings and the Kikoni area (Background) in view. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University is governed by the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, Cap 262. The University is seeking applications from suitably qualified applicants for the position of Second Deputy Vice-Chancellor. The Second Deputy Vice Chancellor holds a pivotal role in financial governance, institutional planning, and administrative leadership.

1.        POSITION:  SECOND DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR

2.        SALARY SCALE: PU2

3:        DUTY STATION: MAKERERE UNIVERSITY

  4.       ROLE

The Second Deputy Vice-Chancellor will report to the Vice–Chancellor and shall:

  1. Assist the Vice Chancellor in performance of his or her functions and in that regard shall oversee the finances and administration of the University;
  2. Be responsible for the Planning and Development of the University and,
  3. Perform such other functions that may be delegated to him or her by the Vice Chancellor or assigned by the University Council.

5.         PURPOSE OF THE JOB

To provide strategic leadership and ensure efficient and sound financial, human and fiscal resources management in the University.

6.         DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Provide leadership in Strategic planning and governance, leadership and administrative experience, Human resource and performance Management, Stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
  2. Provide leadership in preparation and implementation of the University’s recurrent and capital budgets.
  3. Monitor the development and implementation of the University’s accounting procedures, manuals and other documents relating to financial control and Management as per approved financial regulations.
  4. Oversee income and expenditure of all income generating units of the University.
  5. Coordinate the production of the University-wide Financial Reports by Colleges and Units.
  6. Management of human resources in the University.
  7. Oversee the management of University Estates and Assets.

7.  CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION

  1. Hold a PhD or any other academic doctorate.
  2. Be at the rank of associate or full professor level in an institution whose academic ranking is comparable with that of Makerere University as accepted by Senate.
  3. Be a Ugandan citizen within the age bracket of 40 to 65 years at the time of application.

7.1 Academic Qualifications

  1. Earned a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate should be acceptable by Senate.
  2. At least five years of financial or administrative leadership experience at the level of school dean/director or higher in a higher education institution, public service, or corporate institutions.
  3. Supervised at least ten (10) postgraduate students (Master’s and Ph.D.) to completion. At least three of the students must be at the PhD level.

7.2 Strategic Planning and Governance

  1. Experience in leading large administrative teams at the level of dean or higher, demonstrating efficiency and productivity.
  2. Proven record in developing and executing strategic plans, aligning financial and administrative objectives with institutional goals.
  3. Evidence of developing and implementing financial policies that have improved financial efficiency, transparency, and risk management.
  4. Evidence of implementing organisational restructuring or process improvements to ensure operational efficiency.
  5. Ability to develop and implement institutional policies, ensuring compliance with national higher education and financial regulations.

7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience

  1. Minimum 5 years of senior academic leadership in a recognized institution comparable with that of Makerere University, as accepted by Senate.
  2. Demonstrated experience in managing budgets exceeding UGX 500,000,000=, ensuring financial sustainability and accountability.
  3. Proven ability to mobilize resources, secure grants, and attract external funding to support institutional growth.
  4. Experience in conducting financial forecasting, cost control measures, and investment strategies to optimize institutional resources.
  5. Track record of leading financial audits and compliance assessments in alignment with national and international financial regulations.
  6. Experience in handling procurement, asset management, and infrastructure development, ensuring transparency and value for money.

7.4       Human Resource and Performance Management

  1. Track record of leading workforce planning, recruitment, and talent development strategies, ensuring a high-performance institutional culture.
  2. Experience in implementing performance-based appraisal systems, leading to improved staff efficiency and accountability.
  3. Proven ability to foster industrial harmony, resolving labour disputes and improving employer-employee relations.

7.5        Infrastructure Development and Resource Optimization

  1. Experience in overseeing capital development projects, ensuring timely delivery and cost efficiency.
  2. Track record of overseeing the maintenance and expansion of university facilities, enhancing institutional infrastructure.
  3. Proven ability to negotiate and manage contracts for outsourced services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality standards.

7.6          Digital Transformation and ICT Integration

  1. Experience in integrating ICT solutions in financial and administrative operations, improving service delivery and efficiency.
  2. Evidence steering the automation of financial, procurement, and HR systems, reducing paperwork and improving real-time decision making.
  3. Proven ability to implement cybersecurity measures that safeguard institutional financial and administrative data.

7.7          Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

  1. Demonstrated experience in building partnerships with government agencies, donors, private sector investors, and international organizations to enhance institutional funding.
  2. Proven ability to engage faculty, students, and staff in financial decision-making, ensuring transparency and inclusivity.
  3. Experience in negotiating contracts, partnerships, and collaborations that have led to financial and administrative growth.

7.8        Personal Attributes

  1. High level of integrity, transparency, and ethical leadership, with a record of financial prudence.
  2. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, backed by evidence of successfully managing complex financial and administrative challenges.
  3. Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement.
  4. A visionary leader with the ability to drive financial sustainability. administrative efficiency, and institutional growth.

8.         REMUNERATION

An attractive remuneration package that is in accordance with Makerere University terms and conditions of service.

9.         TENURE

The Second Deputy Vice Chancellor shall hold office for a period of five years   and shall be eligible for re-appointment for one more term.  

10.       METHOD OF APPLICATION

Interested applicants are invited to submit their application letters. The following documents shall comprise a complete application:

  1. A signed letter of application;
  2. A vision statement;
  3. Curriculum Vitae with contact details signed and dated by the applicant;
  4. Copies of required minimum number of publications;
  5. Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates;
  6. Three (3) letters of recommendation;
  7. Copies of letters of appointment to leadership positions at the level of Dean of a School in a national accredited university or other academic institution;
  8.  A copy of the applicant’s National Identity Card or passport;
  9. A copy of the last clearance from the Inspector General of Government or other equivalent national body;
  10. Referees should be advised to send confidential reference letters, addressed to the Chairperson Search Committee for the Position of Second Deputy Vice Chancellor and delivered directly to the address below by 5:00 pm on Friday 13th February, 2026;
  11. The references should cover the following areas: the applicant’s academic credential, experience, leadership, managerial and administrative skills and personal integrity.

Both Hardcopy and Electronic (Email) applications shall be accepted.

  1. Hardcopy applications: Both confidential letters and sealed applications marked “CONFIDENTIAL: POSITION OF SECOND DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLOR” should be addressed to:

SECRETARY SEARCH COMMITTEE

THE ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

MAKERERE UNIVERSITY

6TH Floor, ROOM 602, SENATE BUILDING

P.O.BOX 7062, KAMPALA, UGANDA

  1. Electronic media (e-mail) applications should have all the above documents scanned and emailed to search.dvcfa@mak.ac.ug by 5.00 pm East African Standard Time on Friday 13th February, 2026.

Please note that:

  1. Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered.
  2. Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.
  3. Applicants who responded to the advertisements published on 31st December 2025 (The New Vision) and 2nd January 2026 (The Daily Monitor) do not need to re-apply.

For more Information and inquiries: 

Visit our website https://mak.ac.ug/search-for-dvcs OR email us on search.dvcfa@mak.ac.ug OR Call Telephone number: +256-414-532634 during working hours (between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday).

MAKERERE UNIVERSITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza

ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

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Press Statement: Makerere University Congratulates Former Staff and Students on Successful Election to Public Office

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An aerial photo of Clockwise Top Left to Right: St. Francis Chapel, Main Building, CAES, JICA Building, Chemistry Building, Mathematics, School of Statistics, Main Library, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, CoBAMS, EPRC, IGDS and the Freedom Square. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University warmly congratulates its former staff and students who emerged victorious in the 2026 national elections. Their success is a source of immense pride to the University and a strong affirmation of Makerere’s efforts to not only nurture academic excellence but also free expression and leadership. It is evidence of Makerere’s enduring impact and contribution to leadership, public service, and national development.

We are particularly pleased to recognize the following distinguished members of the Makerere University community who emerged victorious:

  1. Dr. Kiyonga Crispus Walter, Chancellor of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Bukonzo West.
  2. Rt. Hon. Tayebwa Thomas, former Chair, Finance, Planning, Administration, and Investment Committee of the University Council, on his re-election unopposed as MP for Ruhinda North and approval by the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) as Deputy Speaker 12th Parliament.
  3. Mr. Kabaasa Bruce Balaba, Chair, Finance, Planning, Administration, and Investment Committee of the University Council, on his election as MP for Rubanda County West.
  4. Hon. Nobert Mao, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Laroo-Pece.
  5. Mr. Alionzi Lawrence, former Guild President of Makerere University, on his election as Lord Mayor of Arua City.
  6. Mr. Maseruka Robert, former Guild President of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Mukono South.
  7. Mr. Gyaviira Lubowa Ssebina, former Deputy Bursar of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Nyendo–Mukungwe.
  8. Prof. Lubega George Willy, former Staff at College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), on his election as MP for Bugangaizi South.
  9. Prof. Ahebwa Wilber Manyisa, former Staff at College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), on his election as MP for Nakaseke North.
  10. Dr. Asiimwe Florence Akiiki, former Staff at College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), on her election as Woman MP for Masindi District.
  11. Dr. Kasigwa Gerald, former Staff at College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), on his election as MP for Kigorobya County.
  12. Hon. Adeke Anna Ebaju, former Guild President, on her re-election as Woman MP for Soroti District.
  13. Hon. Onekalit Denis Amere, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Kitgum Municipality.
  14. Hon. Karuhanga Gerald, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Ntungamo Municipality.
  15. Hon. Aber Lillian, former Vice Guild President, on her re-election as Woman MP for Kitgum District.
  16. Hon. Nyamutoro Phiona, former Vice Guild President, on her election as Woman MPfor Nebbi District.
  17. Dr. Lakisa Mercy Faith, former Vice Guild President, on her election as Woman MP for Alebtong District.
  18. Ms. Lenia Charity Kevin, former Vice Guild President MUBS, on her election as MP for Vurra County.
  19. Dr. Nambassa Shamim, former Guild President, on her election as LC V Woman Councilor for Kawempe South.
  20. Dr. Nalukwago Judith, former Vice Guild President, on her election as LC V Woman Councilor for Makindye West.
  21. Ms. Nattabi Margaret, former Vice Guild President, on her election as Female Youth Councilor for Mukono Municipality.
  22. Mr. Kizito Abasi, former Guild Minister, on his election as LC V Chairman for Lwengo District.
  23. Ms. Ssonko H. Namuganga, former Guild Minister, on her election as Female Youth Councilor for Kalungu District.

Makerere values dialogue, democracy, and responsible citizenship, and continues to make deliberate and progressive efforts to enhance participation in leadership and governance. We are confident they will serve with dedication, wisdom, and integrity.

We Build for the Future.

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