On Saturday, April 5, 2025, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University held its inaugural scholar-alumni convening, themed “Building Bridges: From Scholars to Global Change Makers,” with great pomp and fanfare.
While representing Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Chairperson of the Steering Committee of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi urged the Scholar-alumni to support one another and grow their careers together.
“Dear alumni, I encourage you to support one another, as it will help you grow your careers together. Education is a foundation, not just a destination. What you do after Makerere defines the true success of the Scholars Program. Wherever life takes you, stay curious, courageous, and committed to uplifting others as you rise. Prof Buyinza remarked.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, addressing the alumni of Mastercard Foundation on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.
Prof. Buyinza further reminded the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University alumni to always remember that they are more than just graduates; instead, they should view themselves as a powerful force capable of changing Uganda and the world.
“I encourage all of you to value your connections within the university. As graduates of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, you have the power to change Uganda and Africa. Makerere University supports the AlumNet Foundation, which we hope will partner with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Our mission is to educate, empower, and help you realize your bold dreams for meaningful change,” Prof. Buyinza emphasized.
Mr. Adrian Bukenya, the Country Director of Mastercard Foundation Uganda, represented by Ms. Rachel Nandelenga, the Country Lead for Program Communications in Uganda, acknowledged the invaluable partnership with Makerere University, noting that the collaboration has made a substantial impact in the communities through the active engagement of Scholar alumni.
Ms. Rachel Nandelenga, who represented Mr. Adrian Bukenya, the Country Director-Mastercard Foundation Uganda, addressing the alumni.
“The Mastercard Foundation is proud of its decade-long partnership with Makerere University, which has borne a lot of fruit and made a significant impact in the communities through the activities of the scholars and alumni, especially through the component of giving back to the community, ” Mr. Bukenya remarked.
Mr. Bukenya further urged the Scholar-alumni to leverage their extensive network worldwide to connect, learn from one another, and support each other in finding jobs or creating entrepreneurial ventures.
“I call upon you to take advantage of the extensive network of Mastercard Foundation partners around the world, especially for the opportunities created under the Young Africa Works strategy. I invite you to visit the Foundation’s website to explore these opportunities and connect with your peers who are working with the Foundation. I also encourage you to stay connected with your peers across the partner networks and your university. Lastly, I encourage you to live boldly by expressing your ideas.” Mr. Bukenya pointed out.
A cross-section of Alumni dancing away during the event.
Mr. Bukenya encouraged the scholar-alumni to step out of their comfort zones and look beyond titles and descriptors that aim to belittle them.
“When I look around the room, I don’t see scholars or alumni; I see great thinkers, rising leaders, influential innovators, and quiet disruptors of the status quo. I see future ministers, parliamentarians, chief executives of Organisations, and quiet innovators of ideas that will change this world. Therefore, I urge you to look beyond titles and descriptors such as ” scholar-alumni,” Mr. Bukenya emphasized.
Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, Team Lead of the Alumni Association under the AlumNet Foundation, expressed gratitude to the Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University for their visionary partnership. He noted that this collaboration has immensely benefited many young people in Uganda and throughout Africa.
Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, the Team Lead, AlumNet Foundation addressing his fellow alumni.
“I would like to first express our gratitude to the Foundation and Makerere University for their visionary partnership, which has enabled many young people to obtain a quality university education that most of us may not have otherwise attained,” Mr. Ruhweza stated.
Mr. Ruhweza reminded his fellow alumni of the importance of the convening as a vehicle to support them in achieving their shared visions and dreams.
“Colleagues we’re here today to commemorate our first Scholar-alumni convening for a reason. We are here today because we have a shared vision, we have dreams, and we can only achieve our dreams if we often share ideas, learn and support each other.” Mr. Ruhweza remarked.
Alumni from Left to Right: Dr. Charles Katulamu, Ms. Ayaa Lorna Charity, and Ms. Shakira Nyamwiza, answering questions from their colleagues during a panel discussion.
Mr. Ruhweza encouraged his fellow alumni to take advantage of the resources the Foundation provided and the skills imparted by Makerere University, to enable them transition successfully to the next chapter of their lives.
“The Foundation provided all the resources we needed, Makerere University imparted the knowledge and skills; therefore, we have no excuse not to transition to any of the pathways: namely, Employment, Entrepreneurship, or further studies,” he added.
The Program Director for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, used the occasion to inspire the alumni to maintain the spirit of giving back to their communities, a core component of the Scholars Program.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University addressing the alumni.
“Dear Alumni, I encourage you to continue embracing the spirit of giving back to the community, as it has a profound impact and supports your peers. We are grateful for the significant project you completed in Buyende District in 2024. Now is the time to start planning for an even bigger project in 2025,” Professor Namaalwa stated.
Prof. Namaalwa further reminded the alumni not to focus too much on the class of degree they obtained; instead, they should concentrate on what they can accomplish and achieve with the education they received at Makerere University.
“The class of degree may not matter much; instead, what truly counts is what you can do with the education and skills you acquired at Makerere University. Do not focus solely on the paper; rather, what you are now and where you want to be is what truly matters,” Prof. Namaalwa remarked.
The inaugural alumni convening was a vibrant event featuring a range of engaging activities, including panel discussions, meet-and-greet sessions, and lively music and dance performances. Organized by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, the Alumni Convening serves as an important annual platform for alumni to network and deepen their involvement in Program activities. By uniting Scholar alumni from different cohorts, the event fosters a strong sense of community and provides an opportunity for participants to share their experiences, challenges, and successes. This collaborative environment not only strengthens the Scholar Alumni community but also encourages ongoing engagement and support among alumni.
Bernard Buteera is the Principal Communications & Public Relations OfficerMastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
The Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi on Thursday 29th May, 2025 held a press conference to update members of the Media on the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) Medical Drone Programme, and the Kampala Status Summary 2023 on Road Safety Risk Factors, conducted under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety, a collaborative effort between the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and the Trauma, Injury, and Disability (TRIAD) Unit at Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH). Also presented were updates on; Digital Certification of Academic Transcripts, Digital Supervision of Graduate Students, Inclusive e-Learning and Smart Classrooms, and Launch of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Laboratory at the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS).
The event held in the Senior Common Room, Main Building, was on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe presided over by the Acting (Ag.) DVC AA and substantive Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. Presentations were made by Executive Director of the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Dr. Andrew Kambugu and Head of the Trauma, Injuries, and Disability (TRIAD) Unit, Dr. Fredrick Oporia. Dr. Jimmy Osuret and Dr. Esther Bayiga from TRIAD supplemented Dr. Oporia’s presentation. In attendance were; the Director for ICT Support (DICTS)-Mr. Samuel Mugabi, Deputy Chief – Public Relations-Ms. Betty Kyakuwa, Deputy Chief Security Officer-Mr. Musa Mulindwa and other university officials.
The proceedings of the Press Conference follow below;
Vice Chancellors’ Press Statement
Good morning colleagues, members of the press,
It is my pleasure to welcome you to this important media briefing, where we share compelling findings from two groundbreaking studies that reflect Makerere University‘s ongoing commitment to impactful research, innovation, and community transformation.
The first is a pioneering initiative led by the Infectious Diseases Institute—the IDI Medical Drone Programme. This project explores the use of drone technology to deliver lifesaving HIV medications and test samples to hard-to-reach populations, particularly in Kalangala District and the West Nile region. The study demonstrates how drones can overcome logistical barriers, reduce costs, and enhance access to critical healthcare in some of Uganda’s most underserved communities.
The second study is the Kampala Status Summary 2023 on Road Safety Risk Factors, conducted under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety. This collaborative effort between the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and our Trauma, Injury, and Disability Unit here at Makerere University presents over two years of data on vehicle speed and helmet use in Kampala. It provides vital insights into the human behaviours and systemic gaps contributing to road traffic injuries and fatalities—particularly among vulnerable road users. The study also offers evidence-based recommendations for enforcement, planning, and public health messaging aimed at making Kampala’s roads safer for all.
We are proud to support this kind of research that not only advances knowledge but also drives tangible improvements in public health and safety.
Before I invite the researchers to present their findings, allow me to briefly highlight some transformative developments in the areas of academic registry and ICT advancement here at Makerere University:
Digital Certification of Academic Transcripts:
Alumni can now certify their transcripts digitally through the Makerere Academic Records System (Mak-ARS https://makars.mak.ac.ug/), eliminating the need for physical visits. This user-friendly platform allows access from anywhere in the world, supported by comprehensive video tutorials and public communications.
Digital Supervision of Graduate Students
We have introduced the Research Information Management System (Mak-RIMS), piloted at the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, to streamline the supervision of Master’s and PhD research. This initiative enhances accountability, timely feedback, and is now being rolled out university-wide to improve graduation rates.
Inclusive eLearning and Smart Classrooms
Through support from development partners and the Government of Uganda, we are establishing multimedia studios and smart classrooms across our colleges. These state-of-the-art facilities are designed to produce professional, accessible learning content, including tools tailored for students with visual and auditory disabilities. This aligns with our goal of equitable, globally competitive education.
Launch of the AI Laboratory at CoCIS:
The newly launched Artificial Intelligence Laboratory will spearhead the development of AI-enabled solutions tailored to Uganda’s socio-economic needs, including localized assistive eLearning tools and context-sensitive curriculum development.
These initiatives are part of our broader vision to transform Makerere University into a research-led, inclusive, and globally relevant institution.
The Senior Program Director, Higher Education and Research in Africa, International Program, Carnegie Corporation of New York, Prof. Omotade Akin Aina on 23rd May 2025 visited Makerere University during his short trip to Kampala. Prof. Aina was received on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe by Prof. Tony Oyana, Principal of the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS).
During his visit, Prof. Aina met with the Project Implementation Committee, representatives from the Consolidating Early Career Academics Programme (CECAP) phase I Fellowship Cohort, and current Fellows of phase II. The meeting discussed the progress of CECAP II, which focuses on fostering academic development and research among early-career academics.
Left to Ritght: Dr. Jesca Nakavuma and Prof. Julius Kikooma alongside Prof. Omotade Akin Aina during the meeting.
CECAP II is being implemented by Makerere University in collaboration with four other Ugandan public universities, including; Busitema University, Gulu University, Kyambogo University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology. Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza, the Project Principal Investigator was represented at the meeting by the Director of Graduate Training, Prof. Julius Kikooma.
The Directorate of Graduate Training at Makerere University has equipped several Senior ranking lecturers with expert knowledge in a Training of Trainers’ workshop on “Philosophy of Methods”.
In his remarks at the opening of a 3-day training workshop at Level4 Conference Hall – Senate Building, the Director of Graduate Training Prof. Julius Kikooma said, “The teaching of Philosophy of Methods gives all participants the fundamentals to extend knowledge to other learners, hence its importance in upholding the Makerere University values.”
Kikooma urged and challenged the participants to also attend and actively participate in the follow up of learners’ training of students, stating that the PhD students need support as the directorate continues to coordinate the curriculum of PhD by-research that was approved by the senate recently.
“To holistically implement the senate approved PhD curriculum, we are coordinating capacity building trainings of all stake holders in a structured approach with the different units of the University. Many more trainings including Training of Trainers in advanced research methods course are on the way.”
He further urged the participants to be intentional in their teaching profession and in whatever they were doing, adding “Apart from focusing on practices as teachers and researchers, we can engage in wider philosophical debates in our research areas so that we are relevant in the society and in the empowerment of PhD research students.”
The participants for the Philosophy of Methods training were from College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Education and External Studies, Makerere University Business School among others.
During the same training, Dr. Dickson Kanakulya stressed the need to train senior lecturers in the Philosophy of Methods, saying, “The biggest connection is that societal problems require concrete research to find solutions. Our challenge in Africa is that we employ a short barrow approach to find solutions to problems. This cannot work. We need consistent researchers to solve problems. Lasting solutions to societal issues can only be got through training such as Philosophy of Methods, where researchers come up with new models for societal solutions.”
Prof. Julius Kikooma pose for a photo with participants and facilitators.
Dr. Kanakulya said that Makerere University remains the biggest research University in Africa and philosophy of Methods helps to come up with good research tools that produce good research outputs. “Research has shown that the higher the number of PhD researchers in any given country, the higher the levels of development of that country e.g. the USA, China etc., adding that research is not limited to only medicinal or agricultural related issues.”
He said philosophy of methods, encourages philosophical creativity in research, “It is meant to bring out philosophical generation of concepts, theories and ideas. It is meant to encourage students to question the existing philosophical assumptions and status quo in a given field of knowledge such that new philosophical concepts are created.”
For successful rollout of government programs like the National Development Plan 4, Dr. Kanakulya said that Philosophy of Methods training needs to be integrated into such systems. “Philosophy of Methods focuses on ethical thinking aspects. For example, for a better rollout of the Parish Development Model, we need implementers to be ethical.” He added.
Prof. Sulait Tumwiine, the associate Dean of Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research at MUBS said, “This is a discussion where new ideas are shared to guide and gauge applicability in the current knowledge diversity coupled with lots of technological development including Artificial Intelligence and Chat GPT.”
He added, “As professors of Universities, we need to understand how we leverage on what comes up so that it does not take our space, but also appreciate how we can support growth of knowledge. The Philosophy of Methods training is the answer.”
Dr. Jim Spire Ssentongo highlighted that Philosophy uses more of the critical mind than Science. He added that philosophy is more of speculation of the mind.
“Sustainability of philosophy Education encourages us to continue training. Philosophy being the oldest discipline retained special status in the academia as a pinnacle of pursuit of knowledge. All disciplines have major elements of philosophy citing examples in the philosophy of Mathematics and Physics.
Dr. Spire added, “If you do not understand philosophy, you cannot deeply investigate anything because philosophy is the reality of understanding everything. Philosophy is the basis of understanding what knowledge is and how it is arrived at.”
Also participating in the workshop was Prof. Joseph Ntaayi from MUBS, in his remarks he said PhD students need the philosophy of methods training to understand how to best to create knowledge. He added that ontological and epistemological questions that lead to good research design methods can only be answered by this training.
Dr. Robert Kakuru, a Lecturer in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences said that the Philosophy of Methods training is needed by every graduate student as well as supervisors to critically determine the choice of methods to use in academic research. For example, “If one wants to use a questionnaire as an interview approach, one should understand, why that approach and yet without this training, the why cannot be answered.” He added.