General
Harmonizing Africa’s Future through Musical Arts Education
By Julius Tukacungura
The 14th Pan-African Society for Music Arts Education (PASMAE) in partnership with the International Society for Music Education (ISME) Regional Conference brings on board educators, researchers, performers, students, cultural practitioners, and policymakers from across the globe to revolutionalize African musical arts education.
The four-days conference (1st to 4th July 2025), themed, Re-imagining Musical Arts Education in Africa: Innovation, Inclusion and Sustainability, presents participants with a platform for critical reflection, knowledge sharing and collaboration.
Officially opening the 14th edition of the PASMAE-ISME conference hosted at Makerere University, the Vice Chancellor – Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, represented by Prof. Robert Wamala, highlighted the essential role of music and the arts in African society, noting that they have always been a central thread in Africa’s history, carrying memory, nurturing identity, fostering unity, and igniting social movements.
“From the drumbeats of liberalization, the chants of peace, and the readings of celebration, music has been an enduring tool of communication, resistance, and renewal,” he reflected.
The Vice Chancellor expressed confidence that the deliberations would give rise to fresh insights on how to reform music education curricula, support artists as change agents, and influence policy that positions the arts at the heart of Africa’s development agenda.
On his part, Prof. Wamala, who is the Acting Director, Research, Partnerships and Innovation at Makerere University urged participants to ensure that the impact of the conference extends beyond the confines of conference hall. “It must go to classrooms, communities, and institutions that shape the future of our nations,” he said.
In a keynote address titled, ‘The Time Is Now: Rising Together Through Music Arts Education’, Professor Sheila Woodward highlighted the significance of music education in promoting cultural diversity, social justice, and human flourishing. She emphasized that music education can profoundly impact poverty and transform lives.
Prof. Woodward said, “Music needs to remain a vibrant space where we have freedom, innovation, intercultural dialogue, and this conference provides a space for that dialogue.
Prof. Woodward stressed the need for music educators to be aware of AI’s impact on the music industry. “We must now take action on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and ensure that music remains a space for creativity, innovation, and cultural expression,” she said.
She explained that AI tools can augment creativity, but the final output is that human factor that drives the generation of material and finalizes artistic decision-making.
In the keynote address, Prof. Woodward discussed the importance of music education in promoting social justice and addressing issues of poverty and inequality. “As music teachers, we have a chance to forget about those rules and just give them real joy,” she said.
“Music education can profoundly impact poverty and transform lives. It has the power to heal and unite, but also to exclude and oppress. By embracing music education and being mindful of its potential, we can harness its benefits while minimizing harm, and create positive change in individuals and communities. Action can start now, without waiting for perfection,” she emphasized.
The International Music Council, led by Prof. Woodward, is focused on advocating for fair compensation and recognition for artists, particularly in the face of AI-generated music. “Fair compensation remains elusive for many artists, and the Council is working with Spotify and YouTube to advocate for better remuneration,” she stated.
The International Music Council stands for a world where everyone can enjoy access to music, learn, experience, create, perform, and express themselves in music.
Prof. Woodward stressed that the world is facing growing threats to cultural diversity, including economic pressures, algorithmic homogenization, and the marginalization of minority voices.
She also noted that the need to affirm the musical skills of students including providing a sense of validation and a sense of safety.
Prof. Caroline Van Nievero, Charter President of PASMAE, reflected on the society’s 25-year journey, highlighting its growth and impact on music education in Africa.
“This is possibly, in many ways, the most special conference we have held,” Van Nievero said. “We have a unique gathering of past and present leaders, including PASME-ISME president and a current PASMAE president, as well as a past Secretary General.”
Prof. Van Nievero emphasized the importance of PASMAE’s relationship with the International Society for Music Education (ISME) and the International Music Council. She noted that PASMAE’s history dates back to the year 2000, when it was founded in Harare, Zimbabwe.
PASMAE has a history of a quarter of a century, which is quite significant, “We have had biennial conferences ever since the year 2000, and we are celebrating this milestone today and for the rest of the week,” Van Nievero said.
Prof. Van Nievero reflected on the evolution of PASMAE’s name, from the Pan-African Society for Music Education (PASME) to its current name, which was proposed by Professor Meki Nzewi of University of Pretoria to reflect the integrated nature of music and dance in African cultures.
“For those of us who have been involved with ISME and with PASMAE over a long period, it is an integral part of our lives,” Van Nievero said. “It is part of our identity, and we mark our lives in terms of ISME and PASMAE conferences.”
Dr. Benon Kigozi, Chair and Convener of the conference, welcomed participants to the event, expressing gratitude to the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Professor Banabas Nawangwe, and the acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Robert Wamala, for their support. He highlighted the significance of the conference in promoting musical arts education and its potential to drive innovation, inclusion, and sustainability in Africa.
“We are here to discuss, and to take on all steps that will help us as musical artists in the field of education to keep it going, to make it even more and more alive,” Dr. Kigozi said.
Dr. Kigozi expressed appreciation for the support received from partners, including ISME, and acknowledged the contributions of iconic figures in PASMAE, namely Prof. Caroline Van Nievero, who has played a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s history.
“We’re equally delighted to host iconic figures in PASMAE,” Dr. Kigozi said. “PASMAE has a history, and there are people that have paved the path for that history.”
We believe that, “As participants engage in presentations, workshops, performances, and cultural exchanges, they will have opportunities to network, collaborate, and learn from one another.
“As we engage with a rich program of presentations, workshops, performances, and cultural exchanges, we hope that we all will take time to enjoy the weather and the vibrancy of Kampala, the artistic and intellectual heart of Uganda,” Dr. Kigozi said.
The Conference featured a Panel Discussion on different topics, among these was; (Social Impact of music education in higher education Ensemble settings in south-western Nigeria) by Professor Mellitus Wanyama and Kadupe Sofola from Kabarak University, Kenya, (Comparing the Development of Black South Africans and African American Choral Music: Society and Music) by Randy Tillmutt from Virginia Union University, (State of flux: a case study of decolonizing music lessons in a South African School) by Dr. Urvi Drummond from North Western University Potchefstroom, Olubiri as a Context for intergenerational music education: Insights from lived experiences of Entenga Royal Music of Buganda Kingdom by Dr. James Isabirye from Kyambogo University.
Participants at the conference believe that by bringing together diverse perspectives, ideas, and expertise, they can create a comprehensive approach that addresses the complex challenges facing the music culture. In addition, through synthesis and unity, they can forge a cohesive system that celebrates their rich cultural heritage while embracing innovation and sustainability.
The participants will continue to integrate different components, considering multiple aspects and factors that contribute to effective music education, in order to harness the transformative power of music to promote social justice, cultural diversity, and human flourishing.
General
Makerere University Leaders Call for Excellence in Research and Supervision as Academic Staff and PhD Students Receive Certificates
By Moses Lutaaya
Kampala, 15 December 2025 — Makerere University on Monday held a reflective and inspiring Certificate Award Ceremony at the CTF 2 Auditorium , Yusuf Lule to award academic staff who completed the Graduate Supervision and Mentorship Course and PhD Students who successfully undertook the University’s compulsory cross-cutting doctoral courses. The event was presided over by the Deputy Vice Chancellor – Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali.
The ceremony honored the efforts and achievements of 58 academic staff members, 39 men and 19 women from various colleges including CEDAT, CAES, CEES, COVAB and COBAMS, who completed a rigorous three-week Graduate Supervision and Mentorship programme.
Additionally, PhD students were recognized for completing cross-cutting courses in Philosophy of Methods, Scholarly Writing and Communication, and Advanced Research Methods.
In her keynote remarks, Prof. Sarah Ssali, the Deputy Vice Chancellor–Academic Affairs, delivered a message of encouragement and renewed commitment to research excellence at Makerere University.
“It is both an honor and a privilege to be here today to celebrate a significant academic milestone, the completion of the PhD Cross-Cutting Courses by our students and the award of Supervision Certificates to our academic staff.”
“Your completion of this course is not just a personal achievement, but a critical contribution to strengthening the research and mentoring capacity of Makerere University.”
To the PhD students, Prof. Ssali offered warm congratulations and encouragement. “These courses have equipped you with essential tools to conduct high-quality, ethical research and to engage with complex academic questions. This achievement reflects your hard work, intellectual growth, and commitment to excellence.”
She reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment to research advancement. “As a University, we remain deeply committed to fostering a culture of research excellence. We will continue to invest in both our students and our staff, ensuring that we uphold the highest standards in research and academic supervision.”
The Director of Graduate Training, Prof. Julius Kikooma, challenged the PhD students to approach research with urgency, intentionality, and a clear sense of purpose.
“Completing the crosscutting courses in Philosophy of Methods, Advanced Research Methods, and Scholarly Writing and Communication has not been an easy task. However, the certificate alone is not the end goal. Don’t simply compile these certificates. Make them meaningful.”
Prof. Kikooma emphasized that the value of the courses lies in applying the knowledge gained. “These certificates give you the foundation knowledge. The question now is: Can we see the application of that knowledge in your different fields?”
He further urged doctoral students to begin producing serious academic work now, not at the end of their studies. “If you are becoming someone to be listened to, start now. It means the course is becoming useful. Write about issues that speak to societal challenges. Produce thinking pieces. Produce better outputs. “Look for low-lying fruits that can make your PhD journey more exciting and impactful.”
Prof. Kikooma also reminded students that while the PhD journey is shared by the academic community, its weight is uniquely felt by the candidates. “Your PhD journey is ours as a group. But you feel the heat. Speak to us so we understand your challenges. “You cannot be here for more than three years. Why are some of you still here? Is the journey heavy? How can we support you to complete it?” He asked.
He encouraged students to build thought leadership through the PhD Forum, adding that the forum is a strong voice for the students. A PhD is automatic leadership in the knowledge domain. Why doesn’t the PhD Forum come up with periodic writings that reflect what communities are experiencing? Start now so that by the time you finish the course, you hit the ground running.”
The Ag. Director of the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (CTLS), Dr. Dorothy Ssebowa Kyagaba, gave a message to the academic staff who completed the Graduate Supervision and Mentorship Course, speaking with admiration for their dedication and high level of engagement.
“I congratulate all the academic staff who have completed the three-week Graduate Supervision and Mentorship Course. Your commitment, hard work, and enthusiasm have been evident throughout the training.”
She described the course as a cornerstone of Makerere’s commitment to strengthening graduate supervision. “This course is a key component in Makerere University’s drive to strengthen the quality of graduate training, research supervision, innovation, and strategic partnerships.”
She highlighted the thematic richness of the training; covering Knowledge Production Perspectives, Supervisory styles, Supervisory meetings and conversation skills, Research Ethics, Intercultural supervision and diversity, Scholarly writing and feedback as well as Examination processes and Doctoral Viva. She expressed gratitude to the Directorate of Graduate Training led by Prof. Kikooma, and to Prof. Ssali for providing leadership that advances graduate training across Makerere University.
General
Makerere University Hosts EU Delegation to Review Institutional Engagement in EU Cooperation Programmes
Makerere University today hosted a delegation of members from the European Union (EU) for a high-level engagement aimed at reviewing the University’s involvement in EU cooperation programmes. The meeting focused on the linkages between the Erasmus+ Programme, Makerere University’s internationalization strategy, and the related institutional management and coordination structures.
The delegation was received by Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) Professor Sarah Ssali, provided an overview of how EU cooperation programmes are coordinated across different offices within the University. She highlighted Makerere’s integrated institutional approach to managing EU-funded initiatives, emphasizing collaboration among academic units, administrative offices, and support departments to ensure effective implementation and sustainability of projects.
Prof. Sylivia Antonia Nakimera Nanyonga-Tamusuza presented an overview of how grants are handled at Makerere University, with particular emphasis on the role of the Grants Management and Support (GAMSU) Office. She explained that the office provides end-to-end support for externally funded projects, including proposal development, grant negotiation, compliance, financial accountability, reporting, and capacity building for project teams. The GAMSU Office plays a critical role in ensuring transparency, efficiency, and compliance with donor requirements, including those of the European Union.
The University Secretary, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, addressed the meeting and outlined how the University’s resources are managed to support academic programmes and international cooperation initiatives. He further explained the role of the Office of the University Secretary in supporting students, including policy oversight, governance, student welfare, administrative coordination, and ensuring that institutional systems effectively support teaching, research, and international partnerships.
Ms. Betty Nabisubi from the International Relations Office (IRO) provided a comprehensive overview of how Erasmus+ programmes are coordinated within her office. She explained that the IRO supports Erasmus students and staff from the time they arrive at Makerere University until their departure. This includes orientation, immigration support, accommodation guidance, academic coordination, cultural integration, and continuous student support. She also highlighted additional services offered by the office, such as partnership development, mobility coordination, and facilitation of international collaborations.
Following the institutional presentations, project representatives were allocated 30 minutes for structured discussions with EU project contact persons. The session began with short presentations focusing on project results, impact, and sustainability, followed by an interactive discussion and question-and-answer session. The representatives presented their projects clearly and confidently, demonstrating strong outcomes and long-term impact aligned with both Makerere University and EU cooperation objectives.
Overall, the engagement was highly productive and fruitful, providing a valuable platform for knowledge sharing, reflection on best practices, and strengthening collaboration between Makerere University and the European Union. The discussions reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment to effective internationalization, accountable project management, and sustained partnerships under EU cooperation programmes.
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