Natural Sciences
Makerere Researchers Call for Urgent Conservation of Medicinal Plants in Eastern Uganda
Researchers from the Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University have highlighted the urgent need to conserve medicinal plants in the face of increasing threats from climate change, over-harvesting, and habitat destruction.
Despite Namutumba District’s rich diversity of medicinal plants, conservation efforts are limited, and several species are already classified as globally and nationally threatened. This highlights the urgent need for focused conservation strategies to safeguard these vulnerable medicinal plants.
Under a project titled “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” a team of researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume documented 174 medicinal plant species. The goal was to assess the existential threats facing these plants due to unsustainable harvesting practices and the lack of effective conservation measures. These species are widely used to treat various health conditions, including malaria, syphilis, diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers. The findings of the study are intended to guide the development of species-specific, evidence-based interventions to curb possible extinction and loss of medicinal plant resources. The research revealed troubling trends in the availability of key medicinal plants, including:
- The herbalists mostly collected their medicinal plants from bushlands (92.0%), markets (82.3%) and wetlands (74.7%) and were rarely cultivated. This is of great concern regarding the conservation and future availability of these resources.
- It was noted that 36% of the herbal products were made from roots, which presents a conservation threat since the heavy utilization of roots affects the regeneration of the medicinal plants.
- Common plants used were: Kigelia africana (Naibere), Erythrina abyssinica (Ekiyirikiti) and Geranium sauveolens (Lokowe). Kigelia africana was the most cited species by the herbalists, indicating heavy utilization and a high conservation threat if deliberate measures are not taken to ensure its future availability.
- Almost all respondents (289, 96.3%) acknowledged a considerable decline in the availability of 13 medicinal plants species including Aloe wollastonii (Ekigagi), Commiphora africana (Nkulidho), Myrica kandtiana (Mukikimbo) and Acacia sieberiana (Mufundawuzi).
- Four plant species i.e. Tamarindus indica (Enkoge), Warburgia ugandensis (Balwegira), Mitragyna rubrastipulata (Mutamatama) and Mondia whitei (Mulondo) appear on the Red List of Globally and Nationally Threatened Species and were mentioned among the plants whose population has greatly declined.
- The causes of decline in availability of medicinal plants included climate change, overharvesting, agricultural expansion, habitat destruction, land use change and inadequate regulations.
- There were no medicinal plant conservation efforts by herbalists.
The study recommended the following practices to ensure conservation of the medicinal plants:
- Promote the use of sustainable harvesting techniques to ensure conservation of medicinal plants.
- Conduct capacity building for stakeholders in the medicinal plants sector on conservation, value addition and standardization.
- Establish community botanical gardens raw plant collection and sensitization programmes.
- Advocate for agroforestry among herbalists to reduce the dependence on natural habitats.
- Develop and enforce regulations on accessing natural areas for medicinal plants.
- Promote conservation awareness campaigns.
Research Dissemination in Namutumba District
At the research dissemination workshop held in Namutumba District on 23rd July 2025, and attended by district leaders, researchers, and local herbalists, the project team led by Dr Patience Tugume expressed hope that the insights gained from the project, particularly in medicinal plants conservation approaches, will be invaluable for minimising the decline in medicinal plants.
In her remarks, Dr Tugume, thanked the Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF) for funding the project. She expressed gratitude to the research team composed of Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa, Dr Jamilu E. Ssenku, Dr Savina Asiimwe, and Dr Abdul Walusansa who have worked with her closely from project inception in February 2024. She further thanked the research assistants and all respondents, mainly the herbalists that participated in the study.
In a special way, she appreciated Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu (Resident District Commissioner), Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel (Chief Administrative Officer), Mr. Kiire Noah (Communication Officer), Mr. Mugunywa Enock (District Community Development Officer), Mr. Kirya Moses (District Environmental Officer), Mr. Bamusubire William (District Forest Officer) and the leaders of herbalist associations for providing support throughout the study and sparing time to attend the dissemination workshop.
Addressing the participants, the Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu urged all stakeholders to engage in a collaborative discussion on how the study findings can be translated into practical solutions to promote sustainable use and conservation of commonly used medicinal plants in Namutumba District amidst adverse effects of climate change.
Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel, the Chief Administrative Officer, praised the Makerere research team for selecting Namutumba as the study area. He said the research served as an eye-opener to the district officials and community, especially regarding the pressure exerted on natural medicinal resources.
Report compiled by Dr Patience Tugume and Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa – Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, CoNAS, Makerere University
Natural Sciences
Enhancing Experiential Learning: ZPEB Uganda Donates Well Control System Demonstration Model to Mak’s Department of Geology & Petroleum Studies
ZPEB Uganda Co. Limited has donated a Well Control System Demonstration Model to the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies at Makerere University, a contribution expected to significantly enhance practical training, research, and industry-oriented learning in petroleum geoscience and drilling engineering.
The equipment was officially handed over to Makerere University at a ceremony held on 5th August 2026 at Onomo Hotel Kampala. The event was attended by Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, alongside representatives from the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies led by the Head, Dr John Mary Kiberu.
The Well Control System Demonstration Model is an advanced educational training tool designed to provide students with practical understanding of well control principles, equipment operation, and safety procedures applied during drilling operations. Although it is not intended for field deployment, the model offers a realistic representation of the systems and processes used in the prevention and management of well control incidents, including blowouts, enabling students to acquire practical experience within a safe learning environment.
The equipment will significantly enhance students’ understanding of well control systems by providing practical demonstrations of pressure management techniques and strengthening their competencies in kick detection, well control procedures, drilling safety, and emergency response.
By integrating practical demonstrations into petroleum education, the model will contribute to the development of highly skilled graduates equipped with the technical knowledge and practical capabilities required to support Uganda’s emerging oil and gas industry.
ZPEB Uganda Co. Limited, the donor of the equipment, is the Ugandan subsidiary of Zhongyuan Petroleum Exploration Bureau (ZPEB), a globally recognized Chinese drilling contractor with extensive expertise in oil and gas exploration, drilling, cementing, and engineering services. The company has been actively involved in supporting petroleum exploration and development activities in Uganda while contributing to capacity building within the country’s oil and gas sector.
The Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies at Makerere University continues to play a pivotal role in developing professionals who contribute to the sustainable exploration and management of natural resources. Through its undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, the Department equips students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in geology, petroleum systems, exploration methods, reservoir characterization, and production technologies.
Natural Sciences
CoNAS Orientation: First Year Students Urged to Lay Strong Foundation for Academic & Professional Success
First Year students admitted to the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) at Makerere University for the Academic Year 2026/2027 have been encouraged to remain focused on their studies, embrace the opportunities available at the University, and lay a strong foundation for successful academic and professional careers.
The call was made during the orientation ceremony held on 5th August 2026 at the College premises. The session introduced the students to university life and policies, academic expectations, support services, and the diverse opportunities available within the College and University, helping them make a smooth transition from secondary school to higher education.
The orientation was attended by the College Management led by the Principal, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Deputy Principal, Prof. Juma Kasozi, Deans, Heads of Departments, academic staff, and representatives from various University administrative units.
Welcoming the students, the Principal, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, congratulated them on securing admission to one of Uganda’s leading science colleges and encouraged them to take full advantage of the opportunities available at the University.
“CoNAS is internationally recognized for excellence in teaching, research, and innovation. Supported by highly qualified academic staff, 95 per cent of whom are PhD holders, the College provides high-quality education, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and global perspectives needed to excel in an increasingly competitive world.”
Prof. Ireeta urged the students to approach university life with discipline and commitment from the outset, encouraging them to attend lectures consistently and develop effective study habits that would enable them to excel academically. While acknowledging that university life presents many social opportunities, he advised the students to maintain a healthy balance between academics and extracurricular activities.
The Deputy Principal, Prof. Juma Kasozi, challenged the students to take personal responsibility for their learning and professional development. He encouraged them to cultivate a culture of discipline, curiosity, and continuous learning, emphasizing that academic success is achieved through consistent effort rather than last-minute preparation.
He equally advised the students to attend all lectures, actively participate in all academic activities, and develop strong computer and statistical skills – competencies that are increasingly vital for success across scientific disciplines and in today’s evolving workplace.
He also urged the students to uphold academic integrity, manage their time effectively, and seek guidance whenever they encounter academic or personal challenges.
The Deans introduced students to the departments and academic programmes within their respective Schools, explaining programme structures, academic expectations, career prospects, and the support systems available to facilitate student success. They encouraged the students to take advantage of the mentorship opportunities offered by academic staff.
Addressing the students, the Acting Dean, School of Biosciences, also Head of the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, Dr. Godfrey Kawooya Kubiriza, encouraged the students to embrace the programmes to which they were admitted, noting that each programme offers unique opportunities for learning, research, innovation, and career growth. “Success depends more on commitment, dedication, and hard work than on the title of one’s degree programme.” Dr. Kubiriza reminded the students that, while university life provides greater freedom and independence, it also requires a strong sense of responsibility, self-discipline, and effective time management to achieve academic success.
The Dean of the School of Physical Sciences, Prof. David Ssevviiri, underscored the critical role that science graduates play in driving national development through research, innovation, and technological advancement. He encouraged students to maximize the opportunities available within the School and urged them to adopt a finalist mindset from their very first semester by setting high academic standards and remaining committed to excellence throughout their academic journey.
Ms. Barbra Akello and Mr. Ivan Ocen shared practical insights on strategies for achieving a good CGPA. They encouraged students to take personal responsibility for their academic success by embracing self-directed excellence, setting clear academic goals, and developing effective study habits from the beginning of their university journey. They advised students to actively engage with lecturers, seek academic guidance whenever necessary, and build supportive study networks. They emphasized that consistent effort, early preparation, discipline, and a focused approach to learning are key foundations for attaining good grades and succeeding at the university.
Students also received comprehensive guidance on academic procedures and University regulations from representatives of the College Registrar’s Office, Ms. Hellen Mirembe and Ms. Hasifa Mukyala. They explained key processes relating to admission, registration, enrolment, progression requirements, examinations, academic appeals, and withdrawal procedures, while emphasizing the importance of honesty, integrity, and compliance with the University regulations. The students were also sensistized on the library services and fees payment policy.
The Deputy Director of the Institute of Open, Distance and e-Learning (IODeL), Dr. Godfrey Mayende, introduced students to the University’s digital learning environment. He demonstrated how students can effectively utilize the Makerere University Electronic Learning Environment (MUELE) to access course materials, submit assignments, and interact with lecturers. He also encouraged responsible and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to support learning while observing the University’s academic integrity policies.
Representatives from the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, the Counseling and Guidance Centre, and the Emerging Leaders’ Programme introduced students to institutional support services aimed at fostering academic success, personal growth, and wellbeing. They emphasized the availability of guidance, mentorship, and leadership development opportunities to help students effectively navigate university life and make informed decisions throughout their academic journey.
Photos of the orientation ceremony: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1eGEb6tAYcr15qQHIuV-Imgclu9sueOk7?usp=sharing
As the world of work continues to evolve, employers are increasingly seeking graduates who possess not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills, problem-solving abilities, creativity, digital competence, and the ability to adapt to the rapidly changing technological and professional environments. In response to these demands, Uganda is embracing Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET), an approach that emphasizes the practical application of knowledge and skills needed to perform effectively in real-world settings.
Following the introduction of the Competency-Based Curriculum in secondary schools in 2019, the Ministry of Education and Sports directed institutions of higher learning to transition to competency-based education by 2027. The reform requires universities to redesign their curricula, adopt learner-centred teaching methods, strengthen practical training, and implement authentic assessment approaches that prepare graduates for both formal and informal employment.
Building Capacity for Competency-Based Education
In support of this national transition, Makerere University is strengthening the capacity of its staff to develop and implement competency-based programmes. From 21st to 23rd July 2026, the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) conducted a three-day capacity-building training for academic and technical staff to deepen their understanding of CBET principles and equip them with the skills required to design, deliver, and assess competency-based curricula.
Held at Ridar Hotel in Seeta, the training was conducted with support from the Strengthening Commercial Aquaculture (SCA) Programme, funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Kampala (EKN) and implemented by the COFAD Consortium (COFAD–ThinkAqua–WUR). The programme is also supporting the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences (ZEFS) to review its undergraduate and postgraduate aquaculture programmes to align them with competency-based education and the evolving needs of Uganda’s growing commercial aquaculture sector.
The transition of ZEFS programmes to CBET presents a strategic opportunity for Makerere University to develop a flagship model for science-based competency-based education that could inform implementation across the University.
The Training Workshop
Officially opened by the Deputy Principal of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Prof. Juma Kasozi, the training was attended by staff from the Departments of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences; Plant Sciences; Microbiology and Biotechnology; Biochemistry and Systems Biology; Exercise and Sports Science; and Chemistry. It was coordinated by Dr. Godfrey Kawooya Kubiriza, Head of the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences and one of the coordinators of the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) Programme at Makerere University.
The facilitators included Mr. Joshua Kunya, TVET Specialist and Training Consultant; Mr. Richard Basalirwa, an associate consultant and process expert with Skills Initiative Uganda; Dr. Cyprian Misinde, Director of Quality Assurance at Makerere University; and Mr. Maurice Ssebisubi, Lead Consultant for the Diagnostic and Rapid Needs Assessment of the BSc Fisheries and Aquaculture and MSc Zoology (Fisheries and Aquaculture) curricula at Makerere University.
Throughout the training, participants explored the principles of competency-based education and examined how universities can move beyond traditional knowledge transmission towards teaching and learning approaches that develop and improve practical competence, critical thinking, innovation, teamwork, communication, ethical leadership, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship.
Presentations also examined Makerere University’s curriculum development framework, emphasizing the importance of aligning academic programmes with national quality assurance standards, labour market demands, and international best practices. Participants underscored the need for curriculum reform to be informed by industry requirements and designed to produce graduates who can effectively apply their knowledge and skills in professional, entrepreneurial, and community settings.
Recommendations from the Diagnostic Assessment of the BSc & MSc Fisheries & Aquaculture
A key highlight of the training was the presentation of findings from a diagnostic assessment of the Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Aquaculture and the Master of Science in Zoology (Fisheries and Aquaculture) programmes, conducted under the leadership of Mr. Maurice Ssebisubi. The assessment involved curriculum reviews, surveys of alumni and students, and consultations with employers and other stakeholders. It found that, although the programmes provide a strong scientific foundation, they require further strengthening to fully meet the requirements of competency-based education.
The assessment identified several gaps, including limited opportunities for practical and workplace learning, inadequate digital competencies, insufficient enterprise and business management skills, heavy reliance on end-of-semester examinations, and learning outcomes that place greater emphasis on knowledge acquisition than on the demonstration of competence.
To address these gaps, the assessors recommended revising learning outcomes, strengthening partnerships with industry, expanding supervised workplace learning, integrating digital technologies, modernising technical content, and adopting continuous competency-based assessment approaches.
Programme Review
During the practical sessions, participants worked in departmental groups to review existing curricula and redesign programme objectives, learning outcomes, teaching strategies, and assessment methods in line with CBET principles. These collaborative exercises enabled staff to begin developing curricula that are more learner-centred, industry-responsive, and aligned with Uganda’s national development priorities.
Participants identified several institutional requirements for the successful implementation of CBET, including increased investment in infrastructure and teaching resources, continuous staff development, strengthened quality assurance systems, and closer collaboration with industry.
While acknowledging that the transition to competency-based education will require significant institutional commitment and resources, participants noted that it presents an important opportunity to enhance graduate employability, foster innovation, strengthen industry linkages, and increase the contribution of universities to Uganda’s socio-economic development.
SCA Programme Reaffirms Support for Aquaculture Education
Speaking at the training, David Bargh, Team Leader of the Strengthening Commercial Aquaculture (SCA) Programme, reaffirmed the programme’s commitment to supporting Makerere University in strengthening aquaculture education and aligning its programmes with the evolving needs of the sector.
“A strong aquaculture sector requires skilled professionals. This is why curriculum reform is so important. Competency-based education focuses not only on what students know, but also on what they can do. Your role as lecturers and technicians is therefore central to producing graduates who are practical, innovative, and equipped to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s aquaculture development.”
Appreciation to the funders
Addressing the participants, Prof. Juma Kasozi, Deputy Principal of (CoNAS), appreciated the funders for the support towards strengthening the quality, relevance, and impact of university education. He emphasized that Makerere University occupies a unique position in Africa’s academic landscape and therefore has a responsibility to remain responsive to the changing needs of society and the world of work. While acknowledging the University’s achievements and long-standing contribution to higher education, he noted that the rapidly changing social, economic, technological, and professional environment requires universities to rethink how they prepare graduates for the future. “Students should leave the university with more than academic qualifications – they should possess the practical skills, competencies, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities needed to apply their knowledge effectively in the workplace and contribute meaningfully to national development.”
Dr. Godfrey Kawooya Kubiriza, Coordinator of the training and the CBET Programme equally appreciated the funders for the support. He underscored the need for staff to embrace the shift in mindset required by CBET, noting that successful implementation will depend on the ability of lecturers and technical staff to move beyond traditional approaches to teaching and assessment. He expressed optimism that the training would provide a strong foundation for the participating departments to develop and implement programmes that respond effectively to the changing needs of students, employers, industry, and society.
Photo highlights from Day One of the training: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1DZ_yEI2008uGo48C7hRyBZO8Dimxi_ky?usp=sharing
Photo highlights from Day Two and Three: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1XvsM3yggYG7FKX30binqpITB0wPBulhQ?usp=sharing
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