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Directorate of Graduate Training Empowers PhD Supervisors with Academic Supervision Training

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By Moses Lutaaya

The Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) in conjunction with CARTA’s Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases (TERID) Research Hub and the East– Spark Project  completed a two days Doctoral (PhD) academic supervisors training under the theme:  “Empowering Academic Supervision Training in Eastern Africa: Sparking Potential, Advancing Research, and Knowledge (EAST-SPARK).”

The training took place between 2nd and 3rd July 2025 at the College of Business and Management Sciences’ (COBAMS) School of Business conference hall.

In his opening remarks, the Director of Graduate Training Prof. Julius Kikooma challenged the team to set clear and manageable objectives for graduate students under their supervision so that they can complete their doctoral studies on time.:

“Set expectations at the beginning of the research journey of PhD students under your supervision. Resist working with students that are not objective. Set a time frame with in which the student is able to do their research so that they are able to finish their doctoral studies on time.”

He added, “The issue of supervising graduate research is very vital because there needs to be seamless progression of the graduate students.”

Prof. Kikooma further highlighted that the target in the strategic plan is to have 30% graduate students enrolled in the next five years. Currently, it is about 17%.

“We need to get everything right in this training. Our biggest issues are in the supervision process flow of the graduate students. Graduate supervisors need to listen to students and equally the students need to listen to the supervisors. The graduate supervision journey is simple with open communication and immediate feedback between the two parties.”

This will help us in creating a new breed of academia and researchers that Makerere university and the country as a whole need.”

Director of Graduate Training Prof. Julius Kikooma

Prof. Kikooma further added “Take the excellence you have to represent the university. Ensure you have all they policies on your fingertips so that you guide the students well.”

In his remarks, Prof. Ibrahim Okumu (representing the Principal, COBAMS) said that such a training was necessary and it was a right move towards standardization of doctoral training in the region.

“What does it take to standardize doctoral and graduate studies? We need to create unison in the region and learn by doing. Doctoral studies are vital and cannot be taken for granted. We need to continue creating critical thinkers ready to nature research programs. These trainings are enablers in this journey.”

He added, “Let us blend the old and young birds in this training so that we share knowledge and experience to nature and grow the dreams of the doctoral students. Nature the inner person, not imposing yourself on to the student. Enable them to open up while doing their research and they will have a good and seamless doctoral academic journey.”

Prof. Ibrahim Okumu

Dr. Drago Kato Charles, a trainer and a senior Lecturer at the Department of Biomedical Laboratory Technology at CoVAB said, “These trainings are continuous professional development programs aimed at refreshing doctoral supervisors every now and then. They are vital and needed by the mixture of the young, intermediate and senior supervisors.”

He added, “These senior supervisors share knowledge and experience on what is going on in the world of education. The young come to learn from old supervisors. The goal is to increase completion and quality of the PhD output. In totality, such a training aims to improve quality and mentorship on how to facilitate and handle graduate student supervision.”

He added that the trainees were taking the obtained skills to their schools and colleges to produce more quality doctoral and graduate students which would lead to growth of economies since every country needs PhD researchers to drive economic transformation and policy developments as well as implementation.

Dr. Peter Ssenkusu, a senior lecturer in the Department of Foundations and Curriculum studies in the School of Education said, “The training modules are extensively researched. The areas covered are very pertinent for doctoral supervision.”

Dr. Stephen Ojiambo Wandera, a facilitator and a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Population Studies in the School of Statistics and Planning at COBAMS added, “The vision for Makerere University is to be a research led institution. To be research- led university, we need to promote graduate teaching and learning. To achieve this, graduate students need supervisors that are well trained and skilled. We will also continue to do retooling for experienced supervisors.”

Dr. Byaruhanga Micheal Bruce from the Department of Biochemistry and Tourism, a lecturer and a participant said, “Whoever thought about this training did something very important. I thought all I was doing in supervision was normal until this training came. I did not know that some issues I knew would let the students off the course while others would keep them on. I want to ensure that all I have learnt is put into action. The modules have been very enriching. We need more of such trainings, probably for more than two days.”

Dr. Tukae Mbegalo, a guest trainer from Mzumbe University in Tanzania said, “The training is very relevant considering the diversity of the participants which include the young and senior researchers because of sharing the experiences which include delays and the relationships between supervisors and supervisees.” He added, “As supervisors, our emphasis is on scientific writing which we should instill in the students. Scientific writing leads to consistency right from problem setting, objectives, methodology and aligning it to the results so that we improve the quality of the doctoral outputs.”

Elias Tuhereze

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IGAD Board Visits Mak, Reiterates Commitment to Promoting Academic Mobility

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Prof. Edward Bbaale (5th Left) with the delegation from IGAD after their courtesy visit on 29th July 2025. Chairperson and Members of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Board of the Higher Education Council Courtesy Visit to Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Tuesday 29th July 2025.

The Chairperson and Members of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Board of the Higher Education Council on Tuesday 29th July 2025 paid a courtesy visit to Makerere University following the 5th Meeting of the IGAD Universities Forum held in Kampala from 28th to 29th July. The delegation was received by the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Prof. Edward Bbaale in the presence of Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke, Makerere University’s representative to IGAD.

In his welcome remarks, Prof. Bbaale on behalf of the Vice Chancellor and the University Management thanked the delegation for including a visit to Makerere on their Kampala itinerary, “It is an honour and privilege to host you here today,” he remarked.  He equally thanked Dr. Kiggundu Musoke for representing the University on IGAD and facilitating the visit.

Prof. Bbaale acknowledged that IGAD continues to play a critical role in fostering regional cooperation, peacebuilding, and sustainable development in the Greater Horn of Africa. “The inclusion of higher education in IGAD’s strategic priorities speaks volumes about the importance you attach to knowledge, skills, and research as tools for transforming societies,” he supplemented.

Right to Left: Dr. Victoria Anib Majur, Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke, Prof. Edward Bbaale, Dr. Kebede Kassa Tsegaye and another IGAD official during the discussions. Chairperson and Members of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Board of the Higher Education Council Courtesy Visit to Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Tuesday 29th July 2025.
Right to Left: Dr. Victoria Anib Majur, Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke, Prof. Edward Bbaale, Dr. Kebede Kassa Tsegaye and another IGAD official during the discussions.

The Acting DVCAA reiterated that Makerere University takes great pride in her IGAD membership, as well as the collaborative research partnerships, capacity-building initiatives, and policy dialogues that seek to harmonise and strengthen higher education in the region undertaken therein. He equally lauded the participation of regional Vice Chancellors and Senior Academic Leaders in IGAD’s activities, “Your presence affirms our collective resolve to build stronger institutions and knowledge systems that respond to the developmental needs of our communities.”

He noted that Makerere in pursuit of her strategic research-led agenda takes cognizance of the importance of partnerships at regional and international levels and urged the leaders present to nurture them. “We need to build a strong academic and research network so that we have seamless flow staff and students on the African continent,” adding that “We hope this visit will further deepen the bonds between our institutions and inspire new opportunities for collaboration in teaching, research, innovation, and regional integration.”

Prof. Edward Bbaale (Left) presents coffee grown, roasted and packaged by Makerere University to Dr. Victoria Anib Majur (Right) in appreciation of the delegation's visit. Chairperson and Members of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Board of the Higher Education Council Courtesy Visit to Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Tuesday 29th July 2025.
Prof. Edward Bbaale (Left) presents coffee grown, roasted and packaged by Makerere University to Dr. Victoria Anib Majur (Right) in appreciation of the delegation’s visit.

Dr. Kebede Kassa Tsegaye, the IGAD Senior Coordinator of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Program expressed delight at visiting Makerere, noting that the University and Republic of Uganda are strategic and extremely valuable partners of the regional body.

In her remarks, Dr. Victoria Anib Majur the Head, IGAD Health and Social Development Division thanked Makerere and other regional universities for promoting mobility among learners by endorsing the implementation of the IGAD Regional Qualifications Framework (IGADQF). “It is our pleasure that your institution and all other partner institutions in the region are joining IGAD in fulfilling the mission of regional integration through skills development and through qualifications.”

She reiterated IGAD’s commitment to push for; excellence in education, inclusivity of gender and persons with disabilities, and promotion of skills that will prepare learners, especially refugees, returnees, and those from host communities in the IGAD region for the marketplace. The IGAD Secretariat is hosted by the Republic of Djibouti and region covers the host country-Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan and Uganda.

Mark Wamai

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Directorate of Graduate Training Concludes Training of Trainers in Advanced Research Methods

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By Moses Lutaaya

The Directorate of Graduate Training concluded a 3-day training of trainers in Advanced Research Methods for lecturers selected from different schools and colleges, including College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), College of Education and External Studies (CEES), College of Business and Management Sciences (COBAMS), College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) and College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB). The training took place between 16th-18th July 2025.

The training which was organized by the Directorate of Graduate Training and supported by CARTA, Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases (TERID) Research Hub at Makerere University, took place at the Senate Building Conference Hall.

In his opening remarks, the acting Deputy Vice Chancellor –Academic Affairs Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi emphasized that each of the PhD cross cutting courses has got their unique role and importance that it adds to everyone including lecturers and other scholars.

He commended the wealth of experience of the trainers and thanked them for coming up with different core methods of teaching the Advanced Research Methods course.

“It takes courage to stand before PhD holders and train them. However, the more you listen, the more you understand that there is a lot you don’t know”, Prof. Buyinza added.

Prof. Buyinza emphasized that these PhD cross cutting course were approved by the Senate and that they are now regular programs of the University, adding that participants must now be assessed, sit examinations and avail certificates to the participants.

“We need the seriousness of the trainees while attending these courses. You are the crop that we look to in training and meeting the demands of the over 500 PhD students we admit each year.” He said.

He further said, “Once you have the skills we require of you in these courses, we will avail you with the course description to teach and train the PhD students. We need a multi- disciplinary team because Advanced Research Methods requires so.”

He called upon the Graduate Training Directorate to train many more to enable the university have a sizeable number of facilitators. “Train as many as you can. Give them the basic principles and we shall have a crop of facilitators that Makerere University needs.”

Prof. Buyinza also informed the participants that the package and course content of the training were very relevant and that even if one did not do research methods at Masters, then at PhD, with this course, it makes a lot of sense to such learners. “With Pedagogy, the learner is at the center of learning and this calls for special skills in addition to integration of technology.” He added.

Relatedly, the Director of Graduate Training Prof. Julius Kikooma challenged the participants to have great knowledge takeaways from the trainers, as these will be the building blocks of future trainings to doctoral students.

“You are our building blocks and we want to use this training to strengthen your ability to take on knowledge creation and dissemination to another level through facilitating graduate trainings, even after these trainers have left.” He added.

He further added, “I challenge you to be creative and innovative. We are now competence based. How prepared are you to handle students since the curriculum has been changed to competence based approach? Focus is now on competence based teaching.” 

Prof. Kikooma further added that the Advanced Research Methods training encourages and promotes competent capacity building for learners and that it is an opportunity for the university to prepare for the students who are going to join the university education after going through the new teaching curriculum that is competence based.

 Dr. Moses Okech, a participant from the Department of Extension and Innovation Studies at CAES said, “My hope is that this training is cascaded to all colleges and schools of the university to ensure uniformity. It is a training everyone needs to go through. It is broad knowledge in enhancing the quality of doctoral studies is unmatched.”

He added, “We need to implement this training to all doctoral students according to design and anticipated outcome because this Advanced Research Methods has the potential to transform our higher education system and provides more potential to produce students with transformative mindsets that can easily internalize and deliver government priority interventions like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyoga.

Dr. Okech added, “Great training in terms of offering opportunity for instructors to check the standards that are used to support graduate students during their masters and doctoral studies.”

Prof. Joseph Ntaayi, a trainer from the Department of Procurement and Logistics Management at Makerere University Business School (MUBS) said, “Traditionally we have been receiving students and they are given to doctoral committees. However, such students have not been going through trainings like Philosophy of Science, Advanced Research Methods and scholarly writing and publications, yet students are required to write and defend research proposals, design, implement and validate a research instrument and also be able to anticipate and deal with ethical issues, write a research thesis and at least publish two (2) papers before they defend the final thesis and graduate.”

He therefore added that this training will help improve on the PhD students’ proposals and thesis, as well as their scholarly publications and this will eventually improve on the completion rates of graduate studies.

On the National Development Plan, Prof. Ntaayi said that the Students’ research areas of focus will impact positively on the policy development and implementation.

“The selection of research topics by students has been mechanical because they lacked the competence to undertake research. This training hence focuses them to select topics that have issues of national importance.” He added.

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NEC Hands Over Refurbished Mary Stuart Hall to Mak

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Left to Right: MD and CEO NEC-Lt. Gen. James Mugira conducts a symbolic handover of keys to the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe as 91st Guild President-H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James, Principal CEES and Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Deputy University Secretary-Mr. Simon Kizito and Deputy Dean of Students-Dr. Rodney Rugyema witness on 25th July 2025. The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) hands over fully refurbished Mary Stuart Hall. The renovation, which cost UGX 10.5 billion, began on 26th July 2024 and was completed exactly a year later, on 25th July 2025. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) has successfully delivered yet another milestone project to Makerere University with the handover of a fully refurbished Mary Stuart Hall. The renovation, which cost UGX 10.5 billion, began on 26th July 2024 and was completed exactly a year later, on 25th July 2025.

Mary Stuart Hall is one of three major projects entrusted to NEC by the university, the others being the renovation of Lumumba Hall and the construction of a perimeter wall. These developments follow a presidential directive to renovate all halls of residence at Makerere University, aimed at enhancing student welfare and improving living conditions on campus.

Some of the blocks of the renovated Mary Stuart Hall including the Tower (Box). The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) hands over fully refurbished Mary Stuart Hall. The renovation, which cost UGX 10.5 billion, began on 26th July 2024 and was completed exactly a year later, on 25th July 2025. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the blocks of the renovated Mary Stuart Hall including the Tower (Box).

Speaking at the event, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe commended NEC for their exceptional work. “I must thank NEC for the job well done,” he said, adding that “this facility looks better than some hotels.” He also expressed gratitude to the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Mama Janet Museveni, whom he credited as the driving force behind the renovations. He urged students and stakeholders to take care of the newly renovated facility: “Let us try to maintain the facility the way it has been handed over.” The Vice Chancellor emphasized that the purpose of these renovations is to foster an environment conducive for leadership development.

Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Principal of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), represented the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration). He commended the Vice Chancellor for fulfilling his campaign promise to transform university infrastructure and expressed appreciation to the Government for the financial support. “I can report from what I’ve seen, that there is value for money,” he stated. Prof. Muwagga further encouraged student leaders to promote responsible behaviour that protects and preserves university property for future generations.

Lt. Gen. James Mugira and H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James (Rear) inspect of one of the bathroom facilities. The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) hands over fully refurbished Mary Stuart Hall. The renovation, which cost UGX 10.5 billion, began on 26th July 2024 and was completed exactly a year later, on 25th July 2025. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Lt. Gen. James Mugira and H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James (Rear) inspect of one of the bathroom facilities.

Lieutenant General James Mugira, Managing Director of NEC, emphasized the significance of the project, describing the refurbished building as a symbol of “female empowerment and liberation.” He applauded the university leadership for their trust and confidence and reaffirmed NEC’s commitment to quality and timely project delivery. He highlighted the role of proper accommodation in fostering health, safety, academic performance, and social interaction among students. “A healthy mind, in a healthy body,” he said, adding that good housing promotes “safe and hygienic living and physical and mental health.” He also underscored the importance of regular maintenance to preserve the facility and avoid expensive renovations.

Mr. Simon Kizito, Deputy University Secretary equally extended appreciation to the President, the Ministry of Education and Sports, and the Directorate of Estates and Works for their role in the project’s success. He thanked the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development for ensuring that the necessary funds were released on times.

Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogere (White Hard Hat) leads the Vice Chancellor and other officials on a guided tour of the renovated Mary Stuart Hall. The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) hands over fully refurbished Mary Stuart Hall. The renovation, which cost UGX 10.5 billion, began on 26th July 2024 and was completed exactly a year later, on 25th July 2025. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogere (White Hard Hat) leads the Vice Chancellor and other officials on a guided tour of the renovated Mary Stuart Hall.

Representing the Dean of Students’ Office, Dr. Rodney Rugyema hailed the project as a significant milestone in enhancing student welfare. He revealed that Mary Stuart Hall will accommodate 521 students and includes facilities for persons with disabilities, such as lifts and ramps. He pledged to uphold the standards and purpose of the hall.

Guild President H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James expressed his gratitude to NEC and the university administration, particularly applauding the Vice Chancellor’s for his hands-on approach and consistent involvement in the university’s affairs.

Ms. Anthea Ampaire(L) franked by the Guild President Ssentamu Churchill James(R) delivering her remarks.

The Hall Chairlady Ms. Anthea Ampaire described the reopening as a landmark moment, calling Mary Stuart Hall “a beacon of hope and a sanctuary for students.” She highlighted the importance of providing spaces that empower women and support their academic journeys.

Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere, Head of the Department of Architecture at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) who led the Project Management Team, noted that the renovation was a collaborative effort involving both students and staff. He commended all involved for their dedication.

Mary Stuart Hall Chairlady-Ms. Anthea Ampaire (Centre) is joined by officials to cut cake in commemoration of the official handover. The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) hands over fully refurbished Mary Stuart Hall. The renovation, which cost UGX 10.5 billion, began on 26th July 2024 and was completed exactly a year later, on 25th July 2025. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mary Stuart Hall Chairlady-Ms. Anthea Ampaire (Centre) is joined by officials to cut cake in commemoration of the official handover.

Following this successful handover, NEC is set to begin renovation works on the Centre for Continuing Education (CCE) Hall commonly referred to as Complex Hall, as it continues to implement the presidential directive to revamp student accommodation across public universities.

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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