Health
Partnering for Health: Makerere and AHF Uganda Cares Unite Against HIV/AIDS
Makerere University and the Aids Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Uganda Cares on July 30, 2025 held a meeting focused on establishing and strengthening collaboration between the two institutions in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The collaboration will particularly focus on prevention and care services for the University’s student population.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy University Secretary, Mr. Kizito Simon who presided over the meeting mentioned that Makerere University is involved in human capital development, aiming to create a healthy population alongside an educated one. “It’s not only good to have an educated population, but a healthy population as well,” he noted.
Mr. Kizito stated that the government supports various interventions in HIV prevention, care, and treatment, with the Makerere University Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) playing a leading supportive role. On this note, he encouraged AHF Uganda Cares to equally come on board in order to strengthen the fight against HIV/AIDS.
The Deputy University Secretary outlined the Makerere University strategic plan’s prioritization of engagement and partnerships with various sectors, including ministries, departments, agencies, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector in order to strengthen its research-led aspirations. He therefore encouraged Uganda Cares to support HIV AIDS services, including prevention, care, and treatment, and to collaborate in research and innovation, especially with faculty members already engaged in HIV AIDS-related research.
However, he highlighted the demographic vulnerability of Uganda’s young population, with 73.2% aged between zero and thirty years old, making them a high risk group for infections. “This is more than just a time bomb for all of us here, because this is the population which we are hoping to be productive in the later years,” he pointed out.
Mr. Kizito expressed appreciation for the wellness clinic initiative, which is poised to provide accessible sexual reproductive health services to students at no cost. On this note, he stressed the need to publicize these services to ensure students are aware of the available resources and are supported to overcome shyness and reluctance to seek help.
The 91st Guild President Makerere University, H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James with concern noted the increasing levels of irresponsible behavior among young people, which has led to the high risk of contracting STDs, and welcomed initiatives proposed by AHF Uganda Cares.
He further highlighted the recent concluded HIV awareness campaign with Guild Leaders and the Director of the Makerere University Hospital. The campaign was aimed at educating students about HIV and other STDs, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and awareness.
H.E. Ssentamu pointed out that the first year students who are soon arriving on Campus are a key target audience for these awareness efforts. He stressed the importance of abstinence but also emphasized the need for protection in case of emergencies.
The 91st Guild President suggested the possibility of counseling for those who have already contracted STDs. “I hope we can have an attachment of counselling for people that have already contracted diseases,” he stated.
He took note of existing efforts such as the government’s stock of contraception and the presence of health ministers at every hall of residence. In this regard, he proposed a linkage between the initiative and these health committee members through the Guild Minister of Health Affairs to ensure continuity.
The National Medical Director-AHF Uganda Cares, Dr. Lubanga Augustine expressed gratitude for the opportunity to discuss collaboration with Makerere University. He particularly noted previous collaborations and the need to seize opportunities for future collaboration.
He highlighted that AHF Uganda Cares provides cutting-edge medicine regardless of the patient’s ability to pay and advocates for conducive policies to increase access to HIV and STI services.
Dr. Lubanga emphasized the importance of addressing the gap in young people’s access to health services particularly for sexual health issues. He noted that even parents and guardians often avoid discussing sexual issues contributing to a lack of education awareness among young people.
He pointed out that funding for HIV prevention has shifted towards treatment despite the need for continued prevention efforts. In this, he called for increased advocacy and partnerships to secure funding for health services particularly for young people. He appreciated past interventions such as installing condom dispensers in hostels and the need for renewed partnerships with university leaders.
Dr. Lubanga expressed willingness to collaborate with the University Hospital to ensure that no one is left behind in HIV and STI services. As a sign of their commitment, AHF Uganda Cares handed over condom dispensers and condoms to the university.
Dr. Byamugisha Josaphat, Director at the Makerere University Hospital emphasized the importance of prevention in health, through programs such as STI prevention, HIV early treatment, and health education “Prevention is better than cure,” he said. He highlighted that the hospital has got satellite clinics at the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) and the Jinja Campus, serving a significant number of students, staff and the public.
The Director discussed the need for health education and information materials, including pamphlets and WhatsApp messages, to educate students and the public about HIV. “The university is already running health education programs for students and surrounding communities,” he stated.
Dr. Byamugisha further highlighted the importance of male circumcision as a preventive measure against HIV, which is already being offered at the university hospital. “We are aware that safe male circumcision can prevent about 60% of male HIV,” he explained.
He talked about the need for supplies and human resources for screening, emphasizing the importance of protecting the university community and surrounding areas. “The university hospital aims to go beyond just serving students but also help the broader community,” he added.
The Hospital Director emphasized the importance of peer-to-peer interaction between students and staff to enhance health education and support as this could help the students open up more on sexual issues which may not be the case with a person who is older than them. He further explained students undertaking internship at the Makerere University Hospital already have the advantage of easily talking to the staff about these issues.
Dr. Byamugisha highlighted the need for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) drugs and counseling, ensuring that people understand the importance of taking these drugs. He suggested specific targets for collaboration, such as supporting a medical officer and providing services rather than cash. “Many a time we don’t need cash, we need in-kind support through a person or provision of a service,” he stated.
In his final remarks, he appealed for support to make services more accessible to students and reiterated the importance of collaboration to protect students and the broader community.
The Deputy Principal, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT)-Prof. Kizito Maria Kasule, highlighted that 75% of young people contracting HIV are between the ages of 14 and 24, indicating a need for targeted prevention efforts.
He pointed out the poverty among girls as a significant issue contributing to the spread of HIV because they look at the sexual related practices as means of earning a living which has led to the high spread of these infections.
Prof. Kasule emphasized the importance of involving different religious institutions to sensitize people about the organization’s work and counteract negative perceptions. He suggested that the organization should collaborate with various religious institutions. “Even Born Agains are involved in the sexual relationships but cannot come out to express themselves,” he added.
He stressed the importance of open discussions about gender and sexuality free from fear and trouble, and he raised the need for sensitization within and outside the institution.
Coordinator of the HIV program at AHF Uganda Cares, Mrs. Mbabazi Martha, introduced the girl’s act program which aims to empower young women to address issues affecting them at various levels, from primary school to national policy. “The program encourages young women to raise their voices and influence policies that affect their lives,” she commented.
She highlighted the success of the program in engaging young people and influencing policy changes at different levels of governance, such as the distribution of sanitary pads in schools and communities.
Mrs. Mbabazi emphasized the importance of skilling centers for young girls to gain economic independence and avoid exploitation. She highlighted the success of webinars and dialogues in raising awareness and influencing behavior change. In closing, she called for continued collaboration with various stakeholders to support the empowerment of young people and address the root causes of HIV infection.
Mr. Amojong Trevor, a representative from AHF Uganda Cares, introduced the “Boys to Men” initiative program to address poor health seeking behavior and lack of testing among boys. He emphasized that the need to empower girls should go hand in hand with focusing on boys to prevent the spread of HIV.
He mentioned the low demand of female condoms and suggested demonstration on how to use them to increase awareness and usage.
About AHF Uganda Cares
Aids Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Uganda Cares an NGO based in the USA operating in 47 countries, including 14 in Africa. AHF Uganda Cares started in 2002 in the Masaka region and now operates in 32 districts with over seven health facilities. The organization supports over 203,000 lives on HIV treatment and has tested over 7 million Ugandans for HIV.
The organization offers HIV prevention services, including the ABC (Abstinence, Be Faithful, Condom) approach, and provides about 6 million condoms annually.
Health
MakCHS 2026 Orientation begins: Freshers Urged to Prioritise Responsibility, Integrity and Academic Excellence
New students joining Makerere University College of Health Sciences (MakCHS) have been urged to embrace responsibility, discipline, integrity and hard work as they embark on their journey towards becoming healthcare professionals.
The call was made during the opening session of the college’s orientation programme that began on the 4th August and will conclude on 7th August 2026. During the session, College leaders including the Principal and Deans welcomed students admitted to study various programmes at MakCHS. The speakers outlined expectations for academic and professional conduct.
The session was moderated by Professor Mark Kaddu, Deputy Dean-School of Medicine. Welcoming the freshers, he stressed the importance of hard work highlighting that ‘your academic documents will speak for you and excellence will open doors’.
The college leaders congratulated the students on securing admission to Makerere University, noting that many qualified applicants were unable to secure places. They encouraged the new entrants to make the most of the opportunity by committing themselves to excellence from the first day. The students were reminded that programmes offered by the college are rigorous full-time courses that demand commitment, discipline and consistency.
In his remarks, Professor Bruce Kirenga – Principal, MakCHS welcomed the new entrants and provided an overview of the College’s rich history, highlighting its growth and commitment to excellence in health professionals’ education. The Principal reaffirmed the college’s mission of impacting the national health agenda through transformational teaching, research and innovation for societal development. Students were encouraged to embrace the wide range of career pathways and professional opportunities available upon qualification, emphasizing that their training would equip them to make a meaningful contribution to society.
Stressing the importance of mind-set change which has also been introduced as a crosscutting course, the Principal urged the students to cultivate discipline, resilience, professionalism, and a passion for lifelong learning. “The journey you have embarked on is challenging, but it is achievable,” the Principal noted, reminding the students that many graduates before them successfully completed the programme through dedication and hard work. The address concluded with a call for the new students to remain focused, work diligently, and strive for academic excellence as they prepare to become the next generation of healthcare professionals who will transform their communities.
Professor Annettee Nakimuli, Dean – School of Medicine encouraged students to work collaboratively rather than viewing learning as a competition. She urged them to form productive study groups, support one another and take advantage of opportunities for mentorship, research and international exchange programmes available through the college. “We are here to support you throughout your journey,” she told the students, adding that strong academic performance could open doors to international exchanges, postgraduate training and research collaborations with universities around the world.
Professor Nakimuli warned students against academic dishonesty, including examination malpractice, falsification of academic records and illegal programme changes. She cautioned that such misconduct could lead to dismissal from the university, even after several years of study. Students were further advised to be vigilant against fraudsters who promise to alter admission records or transfer students into different academic programmes through unofficial channels.
In his remarks, Dr. Richard Muhindo, Dean-School of Health Sciences highlighted the importance of personal responsibility and wellbeing beyond academics. He encouraged students to manage their time wisely, avoid drug and alcohol abuse, stay away from gambling and maintain healthy lifestyles throughout their studies. Dr. Muhindo emphasized the importance of professionalism, reminding students that healthcare careers are built on compassion, teamwork and service to humanity. He encouraged students from different programmes to learn together, respect one another’s professions and build networks that will benefit them throughout their careers.
In his address to the freshers, Dr. David Nono who represented Dr. Annet Kutesa, Dean – School of Dentistry, encouraged students to embrace the opportunities before them by working hard, maintaining discipline, and striving for academic excellence. He emphasised the importance of achieving a strong academic record, noting that outstanding performance opens doors to competitive opportunities and future specialisation. The Dean also urged students to pursue postgraduate studies, reminding them that the dental profession requires highly qualified specialists. Reflecting on his own academic journey, he shared how dedication and continuous learning enabled him to study and work internationally before returning to serve the University. He concluded by encouraging students to remain focused, respect University rules, support one another, and make the most of their time at the institution as they prepare for successful professional careers.
Representing the Dean of the School of Biomedical Sciences, Professor Elisa Mwaka welcomed the freshers and congratulated them on earning admission to the College, urging them to embrace responsibility and discipline as they begin university life. Introducing the School of Biomedical Sciences to students, he explained that it handles core foundational courses like Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Medical Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, among others that support their academic journey. Professor Mwaka reminded students that success at university depends on personal responsibility, regular class attendance, effective time management, and organised study habits, emphasizing that attendance of at least 80 percent of lectures and practical sessions is required to qualify for examinations. He also encouraged students facing academic or personal challenges to seek guidance from their lecturers early rather than waiting until examination time, and urged them to be punctual, prepare adequately for classes.
Mental health featured prominently during the orientation. Leaders acknowledged that health sciences programmes can be stressful encouraging students experiencing emotional or psychological challenges to seek support early rather than suffering in silence. They also called on students to avoid stigmatizing colleagues facing mental health difficulties.
Students were also cautioned to safeguard their personal belongings, particularly phones and laptops, as they settle into campus life. Officials warned that new students are often targeted by thieves during the first weeks of the academic year.
The opening session for the 2026 orientation concluded with a message of encouragement, with MakCHS leaders expressing confidence that the students would develop into competent, ethical and compassionate healthcare professionals capable of contributing to Uganda’s health sector and beyond.
The Orientation Programme continues until Friday, 7th August, and all students were strongly encouraged to attend every session to give themselves the best possible start to their academic journey. Important topics to be covered include IT services, registration procedures, university policies, mental health and well-being, and awareness and prevention of sexual harassment. These sessions are designed to equip students with the knowledge and support they need to thrive both academically and personally.
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