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Youth Empowerment Takes Center Stage at Julius Nyerere Youth Festival 2025

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On April 15th and 16th 2025, leaders from various sectors, students, and distinguished guests converged at Makerere University for the Julius Nyerere Youth Festival 2025—a vibrant platform designed to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of leaders.

Held under the theme, “Our Heritage, Our Voices: Culture, Innovation, and Servant Leadership,” the festival celebrated the enduring legacy of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, founding President and Father of the Nation of the United Republic of Tanzania. It also marked the commemoration of his 103rd birthday, celebrated in style through a dynamic, youth-driven programme.

Organized by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) at Makerere University in partnership with the Uganda Management Institute (UMI), the two-day event featured a rich blend of intellectual exchange, cultural expression, and leadership development activities. Highlights included:

  • A powerful keynote address: “Shaping the Next Generation of Servant Leaders: Mwalimu Nyerere’s Legacy”
  • Panel discussions on Servant Leadership for Societal Transformation and Youth Voices for Societal Change
  • Cultural showcases, storytelling inspired by Nyerere’s teachings, and poetry sessions celebrating African unity and Pan-Africanism
  • A Youth Innovation & Entrepreneurship Workshop, Innovation Pitch Challenge, Mentorship Walk (Walking in Nyerere’s Footsteps), and conversations on mental health and wellbeing

Honoring a Legacy of Servant Leadership

Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, born on 13th April 1922, is revered for his humility, deep sense of purpose, and unyielding commitment to African liberation and unity. As a young scholar, he studied at Makerere University—then the only tertiary institution in East Africa—where he earned a teaching diploma and began developing the ideas that would shape his Pan-African vision. Throughout his life, Nyerere championed equity, youth empowerment, gender equality, African culture, and education for sustainable development.

Dr. Nansozi Suzie Muwanga. Julius Nyerere Youth Festival 2025 held under the theme, "Our Heritage, Our Voices: Culture, Innovation, and Servant Leadership," 15th-16th April 2025, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Nansozi Suzie Muwanga.

In her remarks, Dr. Nansozi Suzie Muwanga, Executive Director of JNLC, noted that the Centre was founded to advance Nyerere’s values by preparing a new generation of servant leaders. Established on 6th October 2018 through the initiative of H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, JNLC runs programs that empower youth to harness their potential, preserve cultural heritage, and develop innovative solutions to today’s societal challenges.

“Mwalimu Nyerere was a passionate believer in the role of young people in shaping Africa’s destiny,” Dr. Muwanga affirmed. “This festival reaffirms that belief.”

Reaffirming Regional Unity and Youth Potential

In his address, H.E. Maj. Gen. Paul Simuli Kisesa, High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania to Uganda, highlighted the festival’s role in recognizing youth as active agents of change, capable of linking Nyerere’s timeless vision to contemporary progress. He encouraged young people to embrace their cultural identities while harnessing innovation to advance their communities.

H.E. Kisesa reminded students that Nyerere’s Pan-Africanist ideals took root while he was at Makerere and urged them to connect with the same spirit of purpose and service. He emphasized the strong ties between Uganda and Tanzania and cited infrastructure projects like the East African Crude Oil Pipeline as modern expressions of Nyerere’s Pan-African vision.

H.E. Maj. Gen. Paul Simuli Kisesa. Julius Nyerere Youth Festival 2025 held under the theme, "Our Heritage, Our Voices: Culture, Innovation, and Servant Leadership," 15th-16th April 2025, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
H.E. Maj. Gen. Paul Simuli Kisesa.

“This partnership reflects a dedication to regional unity—empowering young people to contribute to a prosperous East Africa,” he said, pledging continued support to JNLC to ensure Nyerere’s legacy endures.

Makerere University: A Century of Leadership and Excellence

Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Julius Kikooma, Director of Graduate Training, celebrated Makerere’s 103-year legacy as a cradle of African leadership. Prof. Nawangwe reaffirmed the University’s commitment to nurturing the next generation through education that builds wisdom, purpose, and service.

“Since its founding in 1922, Makerere has grown into one of Africa’s most prestigious institutions,” he noted. “We are proud to have educated presidents, scholars, innovators, and change makers across the continent—including Mwalimu Nyerere himself.”

Dr. Julius Kikooma. Julius Nyerere Youth Festival 2025 held under the theme, "Our Heritage, Our Voices: Culture, Innovation, and Servant Leadership," 15th-16th April 2025, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Julius Kikooma.

He added that the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre continues to provide a nurturing environment for young leaders to grow in character, competence, and commitment to society.

A Call to Action

Mr. Andrew Tumusiime, a Board Member and representing the Chair of the Board of Directors – Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre Dr. Kasozi Mulindwa, emphasized the Centre’s dedication to amplifying youth voices and building their leadership capacity. “The Centre is committed to listening to young people’s aspirations and walking with them toward a better future,” Mr. Tumusiime said.

Acknowledging concerns about the future, he urged youth to take meaningful action now and shape a legacy they can be proud of. “The time to lead is now,” he stated. “Together, we can build the Africa that Nyerere envisioned—united, innovative, and just.”

Mr. Andrew Tumusiime. Julius Nyerere Youth Festival 2025 held under the theme, "Our Heritage, Our Voices: Culture, Innovation, and Servant Leadership," 15th-16th April 2025, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Andrew Tumusiime.

Reigniting Nyerere’s Spirit Through Youthful Leadership and Collective Action

The Chairperson of the JNLC Board of Directors, Dr. Saturninus Kasozi-Mulindwa, set the tone for the second day of the Festival with a powerful message: “Today is about re-igniting Mwalimu Julius Nyerere’s spirit through your voices as young people—through our culture, our innovations, and your leadership.”

Dr. Kasozi-Mulindwa emphasized the richness and resilience of African heritage, rooted in unity, dignity, and communal responsibility. “Your voices matter. Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the leaders of today,” he declared.

Drawing attention to the interactive nature of the festival, he encouraged participants to actively engage in the panel discussions, exhibitions, innovation showcases, and intergenerational dialogues. These platforms, he noted, are essential for amplifying youth voices, challenging injustices, and shaping narratives grounded in African identity and values.

“This is your moment,” he concluded, “to not only dream of change but to drive it—to question, to learn, to lead, and to inspire transformation.”

Building on this foundation, Dr. James Nkata, Director General of Uganda Management Institute, represented by Associate Professor Gerald Karyeija, echoed the ethos of servant leadership. He called on youth to prioritize critical pillars such as education, healthcare, African unity, and collective responsibility.

“Be the custodians of our heritage,” he urged. “Build strong, self-reliant communities grounded in education, family, and moral leadership.” He concluded with a rallying call: “Let us honour Nyerere’s legacy by working for a brighter future for ourselves, our communities, and our continent. Go and become servant leaders.”

The keynote address that followed served as a compass for the rest of the day’s discussions.

Keynote Address: Shaping the Next Generation of Servant Leaders

In a keynote address titled “Shaping the Next Generation of Servant Leaders: Mwalimu Nyerere’s Legacy,” Ms. Eva Mulema Matsiko, Chief of Party at RTI International, challenged young leaders to embrace excellence and purpose-driven leadership.

“Harness every opportunity to the best of your advantage,” she advised. “Like Mwalimu Nyerere, whose remarkable list of accomplishments and honorary doctorates show us that excellence is within reach if we are willing to pursue it.”

Keynote Speaker, Eva Mulema Matsiko. Julius Nyerere Youth Festival 2025 held under the theme, "Our Heritage, Our Voices: Culture, Innovation, and Servant Leadership," 15th-16th April 2025, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Keynote Speaker, Eva Mulema Matsiko.

Ms. Matsiko reflected on Nyerere’s early days at Makerere University, where he nurtured his Pan-Africanist ideals. She called on the youth to define their values and ensure that their actions align with their words.

“Mwalimu Julius Nyerere did not just speak about unity and justice—he lived it. He sacrificed personal comfort to realize his ideals. That is the kind of selfless leadership we must emulate,” she said.

She highlighted Nyerere’s commitment to youth and women empowerment, African liberation movements, and indigenous culture—especially his promotion of Kiswahili as a unifying language.

Quoting African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina, she stressed the urgency of self-reliance: “Africa must chart its future relying not on the benevolence of others, but on its own determination.”

She concluded with a call to action for both current leaders and mentors: “Model the values you wish to see in the next generation. Provide real opportunities for youth to lead. Only then can we cultivate servant leaders in the true spirit of Mwalimu Nyerere.”

Panel I: Servant Leadership for Societal Transformation

The first panel discussion, “Servant Leadership for Societal Transformation”, chaired by Ms. Marion Kirabo, former Guild Minister for Gender at Makerere University, featured passionate insights from Ms. Josephine Aanyu, Mr. Gracious Kadondi, and Mr. Kenny Ronnie Rubanga.

Panel discussion featuring Sign language interpreter (Kizito Anguzu), Moderator- Marion Kirabo, and Panelists: Kenny Ronnie Rubanga, Gracious Kadondi and Josephine Aanyu. Julius Nyerere Youth Festival 2025 held under the theme, "Our Heritage, Our Voices: Culture, Innovation, and Servant Leadership," 15th-16th April 2025, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Panel discussion featuring Sign language interpreter (Kizito Anguzu), Moderator- Marion Kirabo, and Panelists: Kenny Ronnie Rubanga, Gracious Kadondi and Josephine Aanyu.

Mr. Kenny Ronnie Rubanga, Guild President at UMI, emphasized the urgency of unity and ethical leadership. “We must unite or perish,” he said, quoting Nyerere. He called on the youth to rise above tribalism, uphold integrity, and advocate for policies that are people-centered.

“Uganda has excellent policies, but they are undermined by poor implementation—often by us,” he noted. “Before blaming others, assess yourself and your peers.”

Ms. Josephine Aanyu, former Guild Speaker at Uganda Christian University, emphasized the importance of accountability and modesty in leadership. She urged young leaders to avoid extravagance and instead focus on transparent management of entrusted resources.

Addressing unemployment, she encouraged youth to form collaborative teams and generate impactful, community-based solutions. “We are brilliant and creative. Let’s use our collective energy to create jobs and opportunities,” she said.

Ms. Gracious Kadondi, the 91st Vice Guild President of Makerere University, highlighted ethical leadership as a combination of empathy, transparency, and public service. She advocated for mentorship programs to nurture a new generation of ethical leaders and emphasized the need to connect leadership to real societal needs.

Panel II: Youth Voices for Social Change

The second panel discussion, “Youth Voices for Social Change”, moderated by Dr. Gardner Rwakiseta Herbert, Programme Manager at JNLC, featured Mr. Robert Maseruka, Ms. Charity Nduhura, and Ms. Rose Nabwire.

Panel discussion featuring Rose Nabwire, Robert Maseruka, Charity Nduhura and Moderator- Gardner Rwakiseta Herbert. Julius Nyerere Youth Festival 2025 held under the theme, "Our Heritage, Our Voices: Culture, Innovation, and Servant Leadership," 15th-16th April 2025, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Panel discussion featuring Rose Nabwire, Robert Maseruka, Charity Nduhura and Moderator- Gardner Rwakiseta Herbert.

Mr. Robert Maseruka, 89th Guild President of Makerere University, emphasized equity and inclusion in leadership, citing the Makerere Guild Constitution’s provisions for women and persons with disabilities.

He urged young people to reflect on their life’s purpose: “Great leaders—whether Jesus Christ, Napoleon, or President Museveni—discovered their purpose early. What is yours? What are you willing to stand—or even die—for?”

The panel continued with more reflections on grassroots activism, the importance of youth representation in governance, and using creativity to challenge the status quo.

Conclusion: Celebrating Legacy, Inspiring Action

In her compelling remarks, Ms. Rose Nabwire, Guild President of Makerere University Business School (MUBS), challenged fellow youth to be bold and intentional about engaging in politics. She urged young leaders to be active listeners and to participate in community empowerment initiatives, such as volunteering and giving back to their communities. Stressing the importance of humility and empathy in leadership, she reminded her peers that true service is rooted in understanding and compassion.

On a more somber note, Ms. Nabwire raised concerns over the increasing commercialization of student politics across universities. She encouraged upcoming leaders to resist this trend and strive for integrity, transparency, and purpose-driven leadership.

Ms. Charity Nduhura, Guild Speaker at UMI, inspired the audience by sharing her personal journey of balancing student life, politics, employment, marriage, and family. As a living testament to the power of resilience and time management, she encouraged young people to understand their priorities and plan their schedules effectively.

In advocating for greater inclusion, Ms. Nduhura appealed to the festival organizers to ensure representation of young women from rural and distant universities in future panel discussions. “We must ensure every voice is heard, especially those from areas often left behind,” she said.

Addressing a persistent societal stereotype, Ms. Nduhura advised women not to be discouraged by those who claim that empowered women intimidate potential partners. “Class attracts class,” she affirmed. “Those who value greatness will always find their way to it.”

Reflections from Butiama: Learning from Mwalimu’s Roots

A moving storytelling session, moderated by Mr. Lawrence Alionzi, the 88th Guild President of Makerere University, brought the spirit of Mwalimu Nyerere closer to home.

Mr. Bruce Mwebaze, a student at Makerere University and a beneficiary of the JNLC’s Butiama learning visit, shared his reflections from the birthplace of Mwalimu Nyerere. He spoke of Nyerere’s deep belief in the power and promise of young people, his humility, and his devotion to servant leadership. Mwebaze recounted how leaders from across Africa would visit Tanzania to learn from Nyerere’s model of transformation—a testament to his enduring influence.

Another visitor to Butiama, Ms. Constance Ichumar, spoke of how the trip provoked deep introspection. “If I died today, what would I be remembered for?” she asked. She praised Nyerere’s vision for a united Africa and his historic efforts to unite Tanzanians under one language—Kiswahili. In his honor, she called upon Ugandans to embrace and learn Kiswahili as a step toward deeper African unity.

Julius Nyerere Youth Festival 2025 held under the theme, "Our Heritage, Our Voices: Culture, Innovation, and Servant Leadership," 15th-16th April 2025, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Performers on stage entertain guests.

Cultural Expression and the Power of Art

As the sun set, participants were treated to an evening of traditional music and dance performances celebrating African heritage—a fitting tribute to Mwalimu Nyerere, who held African culture in high esteem.

The celebrations reached a heartfelt crescendo with “Voices in the Night”, an evocative social event featuring poetry and spoken word inspired by Mwalimu Nyerere’s teachings. Distinguished voices including Dr. Susan Kiguli, Associate Professor at Makerere University, renowned poet Kagayi Ngobi, and creative writing students, performed poems that celebrated African unity, Pan-Africanism, and servant leadership.

Through rhythm, verse, and song, the evening became a living testament to Nyerere’s spirit—a reminder that leadership is not confined to political office, but is lived daily through action, voice, and legacy.

A Festival of Reflection, Action, and Hope

Day One of the Ignite Youth Voices 2025 Festival did more than commemorate the birth of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere. It sparked renewed dialogue, inspired bold ideas, and summoned a new generation to action. In every voice that spoke, every story shared, and every dance performed, Nyerere’s vision lived on.

As the youth continue to carry the torch of servant leadership, African unity, and ethical transformation, one message rang clear: the future is not something to wait for—it is something to shape, starting now.

Performers entertain guests at the Yusuf Lule Auditorium Entrance. Julius Nyerere Youth Festival 2025 held under the theme, "Our Heritage, Our Voices: Culture, Innovation, and Servant Leadership," 15th-16th April 2025, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Performers entertain guests at the Yusuf Lule Auditorium Entrance.

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Master’s Scholarship Opportunities: Call For Applications – Faculty Initiated Ideas

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A hands-on session in the Biomedical Engineering Unit Lab. College of Health Sciences (CHS), New Mulago Complex, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Biomedical Engineering Unit, Department of Physiology at Makerere University College of Health Sciences (MakCHS), Uganda in conjunction with Case Western Reserve University, USA received a grant from the U.S. NIH – Fogarty International Center to train Ugandans in Biomedical Engineering (BME). This program’s main aim is to build capacity for medical technology innovation and develop human capacity interested in research in Biomedical Engineering.

As such, this program is currently soliciting for applications from suitably qualified Ugandans for Scholarships that will lead to the award of Engineering or closely related degree. MSc students from these programs at Makerere University are highly encouraged to apply: Technology Innovation and Industrial Development from College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Computer Science (CoCIS) and Immunology and Clinical Microbiology, Masters of Health informatics, Master of Bioinformatics (CHS) but also open to closely related degrees. Funding for tuition, stipend and research costs will be available for a maximum of one academic year (Masters of Science).

A modest monthly stipend and reasonable research funds will be provided. Students are required to pick up to 2 topics those in the table (see downloads) indicating good reasons for the choice. The candidates should strictly limit their application to these preselected projects.

Selection Criteria:

  1. Minimum qualifications: Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in an in Engineering or Health-related field from a recognized university
  2. Projects only limited to the preselected ones- the candidate will then develop a MSc concept/proposal based on these
  3. Technology focus of biomaterials and drug delivery, point-of-care diagnostics, biomedical imaging, and data analytics and artificial intelligence.
  4. Evidence of good performance in year one of MSc program is a requirement
  5. Applicants should be ready and willing to undergo oral interviews

Submit only the following documents as a single PDF file to sightproject2022@gmail.com and indicate in the subject “Scholarship MSc Application 2025”.

  • Certified copies of relevant academic documents
  • Two reference letters
  • Statement of motivation (not more than 500 words)
  • A brief CV of not more than four (4) pages.

Application Deadline: 30th May, 2025
Interview date: 6th June, 2025
Notification date: 13th June, 2025

For clarifications contact: Ms. Basemera Joanittah Tel: 0701925906/0774572385 Email: birungijoanah@gmail.com

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Uphold Makerere and Mastercard Foundation values during this Holiday

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Prof. Justine Namaalwa addresses Scholars during the family day event on 19th May 2025. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Program Director for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, Prof Justine Namaalwa, has urged Scholars to uphold Makerere and Mastercard Foundation values during the holiday period.

Speaking at the family day event held on Monday, May 19, 2025 at the Rugby grounds at Makerere University, Prof Namaalwa emphasized the importance of integrity, responsibility and community engagement, encouraging Scholars to be ambassadors of positive change even while away from campus.

“As you return to your homes and countries, I encourage you to volunteer your time and data to support prospective applicants for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, as the application process is online. You will feel fulfilled when someone you supported earns the scholarship. Do not ask for a single coin just offer your help and proudly uphold the Makerere flag.” Prof. Namaalwa, noted.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa enjoys a fun moment with teams that took part in the sack race. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa enjoys a fun moment with teams that took part in the sack race.

In her speech, Prof. Namaalwa also challenged Scholars to lead, serve, and uplift their communities, emphasizing the need to make transformational leadership a lived reality. She called upon Scholars to engage in community-based learning activities during the holiday period, initiatives that align with their academic programs or personal passions as a way of applying their knowledge and values in meaningful, practical ways.

“When you go back for the holidays, identify a problem in your community that relates to your degree program. It could be an issue like poor sanitation or low immunization rates among children under five. Document the problem and think critically about possible solutions bearing in mind that the issue you choose should inspire an academic research project, an entrepreneurial initiative, or a social venture idea.” Prof.Justine Namaalwa said.

 Themed  ‘Building and Strengthening Our Bonds’ the Family Day event brought together over 100 Scholars, mentors, and members of the Program Implementation Team of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University. The day was marked by interactive games, storytelling, and meaningful engagement, all aimed at fostering connection, collaboration, and a strong sense of community within the Program.

Participants engage in aerobics. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants engage in aerobics.

The day kicked off with a lively aerobics session, setting an energetic tone for the activities ahead. Scholars then participated in a variety of fun and engaging activities including sack races, running competitions, and puzzle challenges. These activities fostered teamwork and excitement, with several Scholars and their family groups walking away with gifts and tokens of appreciation for their participation and enthusiasm.

During the event, Dr. Rodney Rugyema, the Acting Dean of Students, commended the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University for its impactful role in uplifting young people. He highlighted the value of initiatives such as counselling, mentorship, and entrepreneurship support, noting that these programs are instrumental in shaping well-rounded, empowered future leaders.

Dr. Rugyema also took the opportunity to counsel Scholars on responsibility and focus, urging them to avoid engaging in sexual relationships before completing their studies.

Dr. Rodney Rugyema. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Rodney Rugyema.

“You left home to change home. Do not forget the goal. Be responsible. Avoid engaging in sexual activities that may lead to unintended responsibilities. During the holidays, learn a skill, be productive, or plant trees. Save the environment and be part of the change.”

In his remarks, Derrick Asiimwe, President of the Scholars Association at Makerere University, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Program Implementation Team for their unwavering support. He thanked them for grooming Scholars into leaders, offering comfort during challenging times, and treating them with the care and concern of a parent. His words reflected the deep sense of gratitude and belonging felt by Scholars within the Program.

Derrick Asiimwe. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Derrick Asiimwe.

 “It can’t go without mention that you have really loved and disciplined us. You are the true definition of Mathew 19:14 where Jesus said let the children come and not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to us,” Asiimwe, said. The vibrant day came to a close with members of the Shalom family emerging as overall winners, proudly walking away with the trophy a testament to their teamwork, spirit, and active participation throughout the event.

More highlights from the family day

Bottle filling was part of the fun and games. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Bottle filling was part of the fun and games.

Female participants engage in one of the challenges. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Female participants engage in one of the challenges.

Scholars running during the fun and games. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Scholars running during the fun and games.

Mr. John Osuna (Centre) presents a gift to a participant. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. John Osuna (Centre) presents a gift to a participant.

Scholars show off their certificates. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Scholars show off their certificates.

Carol Kasujja
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Directorate of Graduate Training Conducts a Training for Trainer of Trainees in Scholarly Writing & Communication Skills

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By Moses Lutaaya

The Directorate of Graduate Training has equipped scholarly and communication skills to lecturers on facilitating PhD programs in different schools and colleges.

This was during a training dubbed “Training of Trainers” organized by Directorate of Graduate Training with funding support from the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA). The workshop, conducted in the training lab in the Main University Library, was spearheaded by facilitators from the School of Languages, Literature and Communication, where the course is housed.

Officiating at the training, the Director of Graduate Training at Makerere University, Prof. Julius Kikooma highlighted that the training aimed at strengthening and enhancing the capacity of schools and colleges in handling PhD studies.

“We select a few lecturers, comprehensively train them and we usually have them cascade the knowledge to other lecturers in the different schools and colleges.” Prof. Kikooma said.

Prof. Kikooma said the University had streamlined admissions into the PhD by research program at Makerere University. Presently, there are now two intakes per academic year, highlighting an increase in the number of applicants and admissions.

“Because of the increased number of applicants and admissions, the central management has put great emphasis on improving the environment for teaching, learning, and research for graduate students generally.” He said.

Prof. Kikooma said that in a bid to achieve a better learning environment, the Directorate of Graduate Training had spearheaded efforts to strengthen the capacity of staff in various schools to handle the PhD training.

The schools whose staff participated in the ToT included, School of Public Health, the East African School for Higher Education Studies & Development, Makerere University Business School, East Africa School of Library & Information Sciences, the School of Agricultural Sciences and College of Computing and Information Sciences.

The training that was supported by CARTA, Prof. Kikooma said “CARTA generally mobilizes resources to support researchers, especially graduate students, including Thesis completion, capacity building of researchers as well as support on actual PhD research.”

He added, “Makerere University prides in collaborations with partners that have resource mobilization power that is bigger than that of universities, saying, these support capacity building and competitive grants for Mak. The partners include the Council for Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA) and CARNEGIE, based in New York.”

He however noted that the landscape for development partners continues to shift in terms of emphasis, this was not a sustainable way of supporting graduate training students and called for the need to work aggressively with government departments and agencies including the National Planning Authority to find more sustainable ways for addressing funding for graduate education in the country.

The trainers included Dr. Charles Kato – the Head of Department Biomedical Laboratory Technology and Molecular Biology- College of Veterinary Animal Resources and Biosecurity and Prof. Levis Mugumya, the Head of Department of Linguistics, English Language Studies and Communication Skills at School of Languages Literature & Communication.

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