Business & Management
Strengthening Europe-Africa Higher Education Collaboration through the NEAR-ER Project
Makerere University in Uganda, is implementing the Network on Europe and Africa Relations-Education and Research (NEAR-ER) project, which seeks to strengthen collaboration in higher education through dialogue, events, scholarly debates, exchange of best practices, and dissemination of research and techniques.
The NEAR-ER is a Jean Monnet policy network of 20 higher education institutions; 7 in Europe and 13 in Africa. The thematic areas include: Shared Peace, Shared Prosperity and Shared Spaces as expounded below:
Shared Peace-Democracy, Rule of Law, Justice and Positive Peace Initiatives; Shared Prosperity-Trade Relations, Development Cooperation and Sustainability; and Shared Spaces-Climate Change, Energy Cooperation and Population Movement
The implementation of the three year (December 2024 to November 2027), NEAR-ER project co-funded by the European Union, follows a successful response, to a call for proposals by researchers based at the School of Statistics and Planning under the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS). The NEAR-ER research team consists of the following: Dr. John M. Mushomi – Principal Investigator, Dr. Patricia Ndugga, Dr. Elizabeth Nansubuga, Dr. Olivia Nankinga, Dr. Nicholas Tunanukye and Dr. Fred Maniragaba.
Early Career Researchers and Graduate Students’ Dialogue
On 16th June 2025, Makerere University hosted the NEAR-ER dialogue targeting early career researchers and graduate students from higher education institutions in Uganda.
Featuring remarks from Makerere University officials, an overview of the NEAR-ER project, a panel discussion on the career prospects in the EU, and an interactive question and answer session, the dialogue presented an opportunity to participants to engage with leading scholars in Europe-Africa relations, network with academics across continents, explore research and career prospects in EU-Africa partnerships, contribute to meaningful discussions on contemporary challenges affecting both continents, and gain insights into current trends and future directions in Europe-Africa cooperation.
The following members of the NEAR-ER project tipped early career researchers and graduate students on Africa and Europe relations including research, partnerships, academics, access to scholarships, mobility, networking, and among other important aspects: Prof. Muller Gustavo-the Overall Principal Investigator from KU Lueveni, Prof. Chris Nshimbi-Africa Principal Investigator from University of Pretoria, and Dr. John A. Mushomi-Principal Investigator at Makerere University.
Tour of Makerere University Innovation Pod
Prior to the dialogue, the NEAR-ER delegation toured the Makerere University Innovation Pod (Mak Unipod). Reflecting on the tour, Prof. Muller Gustavo lauded the level of innovation, describing it as a promising space for African-centered academic advancement.
NEAR-ER delegation Courtesy meeting with the Vice Chancellor
The delegation participated in a courtesy meeting with the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, who was represented by the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. The following University officials participated in the courtesy meeting held in the Vice Chancellor’s Board Room: Associate Prof. James Wokadala-Deputy Principal-College of Business and Management Sciences, Associate Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu-Dean, School of Economics, Dr. Margaret Banga-Dean, School of Statistics and Planning, and Dr. John A. Mushomi-Principal Investigator of the NEAR-Project at Makerere University.
Official Opening of the NEAR-ER dialogue
Opening the NEAR-ER Dialogue on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, underscored the significance of the event, as a defining moment in research collaboration in Africa and Europe. He emphasized that the academic convening provided a strategic platform for deep reflection, meaningful reconnection, and a renewed commitment to joint scholarship that promotes peace, shared prosperity, and inclusive development.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi noted that the activities of the NEAR-ER project were aligned with Makerere University’s strategic vision as well as Uganda’s national development agenda. He expressed optimism that the deliberations would spark innovative thinking, strengthen solidarity between Africa and Europe, and help shape a future rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and purposeful collaboration.
He encouraged the participants in the NEAR-ER dialogue to ensure that Africa embraces the Fourth Industrial Revolution through optimizing digitalization systems and processes. He challenged the participants to view the dialogue, as a call to action, and a catalyst for cultivating transformational African leaders equipped with relevant digital skills and employable knowledge. He stressed that the continent’s future hinged on preparing the next generation to confidently navigate and address the demands of the digital age.
Putting across a strong case for African institutions to take on leadership in the co-production of knowledge, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi said: “Africa’s development trajectory depends on homegrown ideas, African-led innovation, and the strategic harnessing of global partnerships to address local and global challenges.”
Highlights by the College Principal
The Principal, Prof. Edward Bbaale represented by the Deputy Principal, Associate Prof. James Wokadala, described the NEAR-ER project as a foundational moment in the redefinition of global academic cooperation from the heart of Africa. The Principal called upon the participants to utilize the dialogue to form enduring partnerships.
He underscored the College’s central role in advancing global academic collaboration, within the framework of EU-Africa partnerships in education and research. He noted that the dialogue marked a significant milestone through positioning CoBAMS as a vital conduit for strengthening cross-continental partnerships. He highlighted that the NEAR-ER network’s emphasis on education and research strongly aligned with the College’s mission to foster robust academic linkages between the Global North and South.
The Deputy Principal acknowledged CoBAMS’ unwavering dedication to advancing Makerere University’s agenda of becoming a global academic e-hub, particularly within the evolving landscape of EU-Africa relations. He reported that the College was actively undertaking strategic initiatives to deepen international engagement—initiatives designed to foster mutual learning, catalyze collaborative research, and create meaningful career development pathways.
“The College leadership has prioritized supporting young researchers and postgraduate students, thus empowering the next generation of scholars to thrive in an increasingly interconnected academic ecosystem,” he said.
Highlights from the Principal Investigator
Focusing on the critical role of students in academic institutions, Dr. John A. Mushomi, the Principal Investigator of the NEAR-ER project at Makerere University, said: “Our students are our main customers. We should therefore nurture and empower our learners through global research and engagements.”
Dr. Mushomi highlighted the importance of providing a “safe engagement space” for students and researchers. Reflecting on his academic journey, and postdoctoral fellowship, he acknowledged the relevance of seeking mentorship, citing it as an instrumental step in his path to the NEAR-ER network.
He also acknowledged the long-term collaborative efforts that led to the successful NEAR-ER grant proposal, notably involving both Makerere University and Kyambogo University.
Overview of the NEAR-ER project
Presenting the Overview of the NEAR-ER project, Prof. Muller Gustavo, a Senior Researcher at the London Centre for Global Government Studies underscored the critical importance of collaborative research and education between Europe and Africa. He noted that holding the first African convening/dialogue at Makerere University was both strategic and symbolic of the growing academic ties between the two continents.
Delving into the origins of the project, Prof. Gustavo revealed that the idea for the network was conceived approximately three years prior, where they envisioned a platform that would encourage dialogue, research, and exchange on topics central to Europe–Africa relations. They rallied scholars from diverse institutions, forming a vibrant and interdisciplinary consortium.
“Over the last three years, we put together a group of universities to foster and facilitate research and communication on relationships between Africa and Europe. The goal of the consortium is to disseminate the research and education practices, the best practices of education in Africa, in Europe, but also worldwide,” he said.
Prof. Gustavo highlighted that the NEAR-ER project will serve as a vehicle to foster best practices in education, research dissemination, and policy-relevant collaboration. He noted that the network intentionally included universities and institutions representing diverse linguistic and cultural contexts, affirming their commitment to inclusivity and comprehensive regional representation. According to Prof. Gustavo, this diversity strengthens the network’s mission to bridge educational and research gaps between the global north and south.
Beyond institutional collaboration, Prof. Gustavo emphasized the network’s commitment to public engagement and knowledge dissemination. He detailed a range of outputs already in motion, including research blogs, podcasts, newsletters, webinars, policy surveys, and country-specific forecasts.
Prof. Gustavo urged the students and young scholars to become active contributors to the NEAR-ER platform. He explained that the network is open to ideas from emerging voices—whether through blogs, podcasts, or other digital formats—and provides a unique opportunity for students to share perspectives and shape global discourse.
“There might be opportunities here for some of you that are interested in further increasing your knowledge on European integration, African integration, and the relationship between those two processes. You may be a student who has an idea on how to improve the relationship and looking at a particular aspect to get that idea out to the world, we can offer that destination platform for you as well,” Prof. Gustavo mentioned.
Remarks by the Dean, School of Statistics and Planning
Dr. Margaret Banga, the Dean of the School of Statistics and Planning, informed the participants, that the dialogue was a space to unite the varied disciplines and backgrounds present, all in pursuit of a shared vision for the future.
“The NEAR-ER initiative is more than a research collaboration. It is a bridge of solidarity between Europe and Africa—a platform where shared learning leads to shared solutions. It is not about the North teaching the south, but it is about learning from one another,” Dr. Banga said.
Standing as a firm believer in the transformative power of research, innovation, and youthful curiosity, Dr. Banga, underscored the importance of structure and strategy in translating ideas into impact. She encouraged the audience to treat planning as the bridge between possibility and progress. She stressed that without a clear methodology, timeline, partners, and budget, even the most brilliant ideas can fade into obscurity, but with a solid plan, those same ideas can evolve into funded projects, published policy briefs, and life-changing solutions.
To the young scholars, Dr. Banga issued a powerful call to action. “You are the thinkers who will unlock Africa’s economy,” she said. “You are the innovators who will shape climate resilience. You are the analysts and planners who will rethink development—not as something done for us, but as something shaped by us.”
With conviction and hope, Dr. Banga reminded the young scholars that they were not mere students, but emerging leaders, and agents of change. She urged them not to wait for some future moment of “expertise” before stepping up. She offered a critical reminder that every question they pose, every network they build, and every inquiry they pursue is already shaping the world, “Your research is not small because you are just starting out, your work has the power even now to improve lives and influence generations. Don’t just study the world. Change it.”
A voice from the PhD Students
Ms. Claire Cheremoi, President of the PhD Fellows at Makerere University, expressed her appreciation for the spirit of unity and collaboration fostered by the NEAR-ER dialogue. “Our voices matter. Coming together as students is powerful,” she said.
Ms. Cheremoi emphasized the value of collective engagement, stressing that such platforms were essential in facilitating the sharing of knowledge, fostering meaningful networks, and sparking critical discussions on the issues that matter most to young scholars. She stated their commitment to engaging in conversations on research funding, interdisciplinary collaboration, and broader academic partnerships.
A statement from the representative of undergraduate students
Mr. Ssozi Fahad Batte, Chairperson, Students Guild Council, College of Business and Management Sciences acknowledged the students had the zeal to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully. In his view, the most significant outcome of such dialogues was the ability to extract value—something “to take home.”
He stated the critical role of documentation, urging fellow participants to write down their ideas, strategies, and action points in order to share them beyond the event. He also highlighted the importance of networking, stressing that connections and collaborations were central to growth in academia and beyond.
Panel discussion on Career Prospects in the EU
In a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Robert Ojambo from Kyambogo University, several international scholars shared invaluable insights on navigating academic and professional opportunities abroad—particularly for students and researchers from the Global South.
The panel discussion offered a wealth of practical insights for young scholars seeking academic and professional opportunities across borders. The panelists emphasized the importance of building trust-based networks, as well as, going beyond emails to form genuine relationships with professors, peers, and institutions.
Strategic planning emerged as a recurring theme during the panel discussion—highlighting the need to research language requirements, living costs, and cultural differences when selecting destinations. Participants encouraged scholars from the Global South to view their unique backgrounds as assets that contribute to valuable perspectives to global discourse.
Opportunities such as Intra-Africa Academic Mobility programs, and summer schools were also presented as transformative pathways that combine education, exposure, and networking. The discussion also stressed the power of initiative—actively reaching out, applying, volunteering, and making oneself visible in digital academic spaces. Importantly, career success was linked not just to passion, but to aligning one’s skills with institutional needs and being open to unpaid roles such as voluntary service that build experience and credibility. The overall message was clear: international academic success requires preparation, adaptability, and the courage to take the first step.
As participants engaged across these thematic areas, the NEAR-ER dialogue underscored the central role of universities in bridging regions, amplifying diverse voices, and generating research-driven responses to global emergencies. The NEAR-ER dialogue held at Makerere University was not just a reflection of academic solidarity—it was a declaration of shared purpose and a call to action in re-imagining a more just, peaceful, and sustainable future across continents.
Kampala, Uganda – December 19, 2025 — The Environment for Development (EfD) Uganda Centre at Makerere University has taken stock of its 2025 achievements and outlined its strategic direction for 2025–2029, with a strong focus on energy transition, climate change, and sustainable natural resource management.
The reflections were shared during the Centre’s annual end-of-year celebration, which brought together members of the EfD Steering Committee, deans from the School of Economics and the School of Agricultural Sciences, government officials, private sector actors, civil society organisations, researchers, and students.
Interdisciplinary Foundation Strengthens Impact
Addressing stakeholders, EfD Uganda Director, Professor Edward Bbaale, highlighted the Centre’s progress in institutional development, research, policy engagement, and capacity building. While acknowledging challenges encountered during the year, he noted that these provided valuable lessons as the Centre transitions into a new strategic phase under the EfD Strategic Plan (2025–2029).
Prof. Bbaale underscored the Centre’s unique positioning within Makerere University, noting that it is jointly anchored in the School of Economics and the School of Agricultural Sciences. This interdisciplinary foundation, he said, enables EfD Uganda to address complex development challenges such as energy transition, climate change, water resources, forestry, biodiversity, and agriculture from a holistic perspective.
“This approach aligns with Makerere University’s policy on research institutes and reflects global trends that increasingly demand cross-disciplinary collaboration,” he said.
He further highlighted existing academic synergies, with PhD students in Economics and Agricultural Economics sharing coursework, and announced the launch of a Master of Science in Environment and Natural Resource Economics, recently approved by the National Council for Higher Education. The programme, jointly developed by faculty from both schools, is expected to strengthen training in environmental economics and natural resource management.
Strategic Direction for 2025–2029
Prof. Bbaale unveiled the Centre’s strategic plan for 2025–2029, anchored on six thematic areas: energy transition; climate change adaptation and mitigation; climate-smart agriculture; water resources management; forestry and biodiversity; and environmental quality.
He noted that climate change remains a cross-cutting issue across all themes, adding that EfD Uganda will continue to work closely with stakeholders to ensure its research informs national policy and practical interventions.
Over the next five years, the Centre’s research will focus on land use and biodiversity conservation, climate-smart agriculture, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and energy transition-areas expected to generate evidence-based solutions for Uganda and the wider region.
Key stakeholders identified for collaboration include the National Planning Authority, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (Climate Finance Unit), the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, the Ministry of Water and Environment, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, and district local governments.
Major Achievements in 2025
Prof. Bbaale reported that the Centre concentrated its efforts on the three pillars of Makerere University: research, policy engagement, and training.
Policy Engagement
The Centre organised two high-level dialogues on climate-smart agriculture and a policy dialogue on e-mobility under the Inclusive Green Economy (IGE) programme.
“We chose e-mobility because it is a green mode of transport,” Prof. Bbaale said. “Through the IGE programme, we worked with senior civil servants and policymakers to explore how Uganda can transition to a greener economy.”
The programme also facilitated cross-country peer learning among Ethiopia, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. He cited Rwanda’s rapid electrification of motorcycles through taxation and subsidies, and Tanzania’s success in universal rural electrification, as key lessons.
Capacity Building
The Centre conducted more than ten training sessions for fellows, researchers, policymakers, and graduate students. It also recruited a funded postdoctoral fellow Dr. Gemeda Olani Akuma. from Ethiopia, to work on natural capital issues.
“Postdoctoral fellows are critical to knowledge generation,” Prof. Bbaale noted. “If Makerere strengthens its postdoctoral programme, our research output will more than triple.”
He referenced benchmarking visits to South African universities with strong postdoctoral systems, noting that Makerere is steadily moving toward becoming a research-led institution.
New Projects and Institutional Growth
EfD Uganda launched five new projects and expanded its institutional partnerships during the year. These included Sida-funded initiatives, a consultancy with GIZ, the Centre’s first MakRIF-funded project, and grants from the Gates Foundation and the Carnegie Corporation.
In institutional development, the Centre inaugurated 13 new advisory board members, strengthening governance and oversight. Prof. Bbaale also introduced the Centre’s core staff, praising their dedication and commitment to capacity building, including the mentorship of interns and teaching assistants some of whom have since joined institutions such as the Bank of Uganda.
Strengthening National and International Engagement
The Centre deepened collaboration with national institutions, including the National Planning Authority, the Ministry of Finance, Parliament, and the National Water and Sewerage Corporation. Among ongoing initiatives is a study aimed at improving bill payments at the utility to unlock new investments and service improvements.
EfD Uganda is also working with district local governments to build capacity in environmental valuation and natural capital accounting, supported by MakRIF funding from the Government of Uganda.. Trainings were conducted for districts in central Uganda and in Fort Portal.
At the international level, the Centre hosted visiting scholars, including Prof. Edwin Mchapondwa from the University of Cape Town, who trained government officials on community-based conservation, and Prof. Mark Purdon from the University of Montreal, who launched a book on carbon markets.
EfD’s Natural Capital Accounting Model Adopted by Government
A major highlight was the development of a natural capital accounting model, supported by GIZ and now adopted by the Ministry of Water and Environment. The Excel-based MoneyCap model, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, UBOS, and the National Planning Authority, supports policy assessment by comparing investment scenarios in natural capital.
“This places us at another level,” Prof. Bbaale said, noting that the model aligns with global climate finance discourse and Africa’s emerging coalition of finance ministers for climate action.
Prof. Bbaale warned that Uganda’s agriculture sector must urgently adapt to climate realities, citing erratic rainfall and rising temperatures. He stressed that climate-smart agriculture is critical to safeguarding livelihoods and food security.
The Centre also celebrated the graduation of a new cohort of Inclusive Green Economy Fellows, supported by Sida, and announced five new grants, including a Carnegie-funded project on household and SME energy efficiency and a grant for climate-sensitive macroeconomic modelling and the Makerere Research and Innovation Fund (MakRIF) from the Government of Uganda
Commitment to Policy-Relevant Research
In his concluding remarks, Prof. Bbaale reaffirmed EfD Uganda’s mission to generate research that delivers practical solutions for policymakers and communities.
“Our work asks a fundamental question: how much natural capital are we depleting in the pursuit of growth?” he said. “That is the frontier we are working on.”
He thanked the Centre’s team for their dedication and contributions throughout the year.
Centre Reaffirms Commitment to Collaboration
Dr. Peter Babyenda, Policy Engagement Specialist, reaffirmed EfD Uganda’s commitment to collaboration with policymakers, academia, civil society, and the media.
“Policy engagement includes working with the media,” Dr. Babyenda said. “We remain open to partnerships and invite stakeholders to engage with us.”
He thanked participants for attending the annual reflection event and encouraged continued networking.
Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer, EfD-Mak Centre
December 18, 2025 – Coming after the successful completion of the examination season, and as the year comes to an end, the afternoon, evening and night hours of 18th December 2025, presented the best opportunity, to staff to reflect on the 2025 College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) achievements in a relaxed environment.
The ever-green Makerere University Guest House gardens provided comfort as staff continued to enjoy this lovely space situated on the Makerere University Main Campus.
The event brought together the Principal, Deputy Principal, Deans of the respective Schools, Heads of Department, academic, administrative, technical and support staff, as well as guests, in a mix of celebration, networking, and recognition.
The end of year staff get-together provided a platform to strengthen collegial relationships, and reflect on the College’s future direction. In the true sense of networking, the event also featured dance competitions amongst staff.
Recognition of CoBAMS staff who received the Vice Chancellor’s Excellence Awards 2025
A key highlight of the event featured recognition of the ten (10) members of staff from CoBAMS who received the Vice Chancellor’s Excellence Award 2025. These included: Early Career Scholar Category-Namugenyi Christabellah and Dr. Richard Ssempala, Mid-Career Scholar Category-Dr. Peter Kisaakye, Dr. Anthony Tibaingana, Dr. John A. Mushomi, and Dr. Kasimu Ssendawula, Senior Career Scholar Category-Dr. Stephen O. Wandera, and the Best Teachers Category-Dr. Patricia Ndugga, Dr. Faisal Buyinza and Mr. Fred Kasalirwe.
Presenting the CoBAMS Awards amidst applause from members of staff, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-Prof.Sarah Ssali flanked by the Deputy Principal of the College, Associate Professor James Wokadala read a special message: “Your dedication elevates the standards of the College of Business and Management Sciences and brings distinction to Makerere University.”
Collective Achievements and Strategic Priorities
Professor Edward Bbaale, Principal of CoBAMS, in his end-of-year message, acknowledged the dedication of all staff and their contributions to the college’s success. “I sincerely thank all colleagues across our academic, research, administrative, and support units for your relentless dedication to advancing the mandate of the College. Your collective efforts remain the backbone of our success and institutional resilience,” he said.
Prof. Bbaale highlighted notable achievements in research and publications, congratulating staff who received the Vice Chancellor’s Excellence Awards and Best Teacher Awards. “These achievements reflect individual distinction and collective pride for our College. I encourage you to sustain this excellent performance,” he said. He further recognised faculty who secured research grants from Mak-RIF, international development partners including the Gates Foundation, UN-PAGE, GGGI, the World Bank, and Erasmus+, noting that such successes reflect growing global trust in CoBAMS scholarship.
The Principal underscored the college’s role in fostering institutional growth and partnerships. “I appreciate colleagues who have initiated and advanced Memoranda of Understanding with domestic and international partners. These platforms strengthen relevant academic training, impactful research, and policy engagement,” he said.
He highlighted new academic programs responsive to Uganda’s economic and societal needs, emphasising the college’s forward-looking and development-oriented approach.
Prof. Bbaale praised initiatives promoting staff welfare and cohesion, including the CoBAMS Physical Fitness Programme and the Mak-CoBAMS SACCO.
On infrastructure development, the Principal noted, “Government has allocated resources to commence the CoBAMS Infrastructure Expansion Project, and the University Council has approved two strategically located plots of land for its implementation. We shall actively engage the design consultant to ensure the buildings meet our teaching, research, innovation, and policy-engagement needs.”
He concluded his remarks by acknowledging life’s challenges alongside successes, extending condolences to staff who lost loved ones in 2025 and seasonal greetings: “As we step into 2026, I wish you and your families a year filled with God’s abundant blessings, good health, professional fulfilment, and personal joy. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all.”
DVC Academic Affairs praises Research, Innovation, and Integrity
The Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Professor Sarah Ssali, praised CoBAMS for its contribution to Makerere University’s strategic goals.
She extended warm greetings from the university management, including the Vice Chancellor, and underscored the importance of every staff member’s role. “Whatever role you play, you are adding a brick to this institution, just as those before us did,” she said.
Prof. Ssali highlighted the college’s research-led initiatives, emphasizing the importance of postgraduate and doctoral programs as a pipeline for academic excellence. “I commend CoBAMS for taking this seriously. Your work reflects the university’s strategic direction and internationalisation,” she said.
She noted the recent launch of the CoBAMS Working Paper Series and encouraged its development into four journals in economics, business, statistics, and planning in the near future. “This will allow graduate students to actively contribute, mentoring the next generation of scholars while strengthening Africa’s knowledge production and decolonising knowledge,” she explained.
The DVC Academic Affairs acknowledged CoBAMS for innovative approaches to research and value addition. “During the Entrepreneurship Expo, your work with coffee demonstrated how one thematic area can generate multiple products—from coffee oil to bath scrubs—showing creativity and value addition. Similarly, demography and population studies contribute crucial expertise, from census data to electoral processes,” she said.
Prof. Ssali encouraged the college to document and develop indigenous knowledge systems. “Your role as a college is to study local economic models, explore African-informed business and economic practices, and produce scholarship that reflects local realities,” she said.
She congratulated faculty members who secured research grants, published in peer-reviewed journals, or served as editors, noting that these achievements reflect both individual excellence and the academic culture of CoBAMS.
Reflecting on the Professor Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile Centre of Excellence at Makerere University and the research promoted by the Tumusiime Mutebile Foundation, Prof. Ssali called for rigorous development of the initiative. “While research chairs focus on individual scholarship, Centres of Excellence build pipelines of knowledge for future generations, preserving the legacy of scholars namely Dr Mutebile in monetary policy, finance, and banking,” she said.
Networking and Teamwork
In his address, Associate Professor James Wokadala, the Deputy Principal of CoBAMS, emphasized the importance of networking and teamwork. “Today is a day for networking. This is a time to connect socially, celebrate, and reaffirm our commitment to serve Makerere University and, specifically, our College.”
He applauded staff for supporting the college’s teaching, learning, research, and student mentorship activities. He highlighted CoBAMS’ innovative initiatives, including the CoBAMS SACCO and the CoBAMS fitness club, which promote teamwork, wellness, and collegiality.
He thanked the event organisers for their efforts and acknowledged those who have supported administrative processes, such as fast-tracking promotion applications. He called upon staff to continue collaborating to serve Makerere University, the nation, and humanity.
Staff Appreciate the get-together moments
Charmed by the spirit of celebration, dance competitions amongst staff, and the choice of trending music, a significant number of staff stayed at the venue until the party came to a complete stop at 10:00p.m.
The following day (19th December 2025), the rejuvenated staff took to the College WhatsApp platform, and wrote messages, acknowledging being refreshed, feeling nice and young again. They requested the College leadership to plan for more of such engagements that promote teamwork, collegiality and good health.
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