Education
CEES Orientation 2025: Students tipped on academic excellence, setting goals and development of work plans
On 6th August 2025, the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) held a lively orientation ceremony to equip new students with the requisite knowledge required to gain a deeper understanding of the College structures, academic programmes, services, and, its contribution to the University’s core functions of teaching and learning, research and innovations, knowledge transfer partnerships, and community engagement.
The College consists of three (3) schools namely, the School of Education, the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, and the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development. The College wide orientation brought onboard first year students from the respective Schools who filled Makerere University Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium and its gallery to the brim.
Organised by the College Administration, the 91st College Guild Council (CGC), and student leaders at the College, the Orientation featured presentations from the Office of the Principal, Dean of the School of Education, Dean of the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, College Registrar, College Bursar, College Librarian, College Communication Office, College Chief Custodian, Makerere University Counselling and Guidance Centre, and Directorate for ICT Support (DICTS). The students also listened to highlights from student leaders, presentations on Safeguarding, the Emerging Leaders Program, and participated in an interactive question and answer session.
The College Principal, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga represented by the Deputy Principal, Prof. Ronald Bisaso, congratulated the new students upon joining Makerere University, a renowned hub for academic excellence, research and innovations.
Citing the ongoing implementation of the competence based education in Uganda and beyond, the College Principal challenged the new students to study the trends in order to tap into the opportunities and networks. He advised the students to re-position themselves as a new breed of teachers, professionals and change agents focused on societal transformation by positively impacting learners.
“You have joined the College, at a time, when the Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Education and Sports, the National Curriculum Development Centre, Makerere University, and other reputable partners, are implementing Competence Based Education (CBE) at the Secondary levels, national teacher training institutions, and at the university level. You should position yourself to play a central role in the delivery of competence based education at the different levels of the education system,” he stated.
The Principal urged the new students to concentrate on academics, build positive networks, form discipline specific discussion groups, actively participate in College and University-wide activities.
Speaking in his capacity as the Deputy Principal, Prof. Bisaso outlined three (3) pillars that would enable the first year students to excel in academics. “If you wish to earn your degree and graduate with excellent grades, prioritize classroom learning, independent research and practical internships. This should be coupled with maximum engagement in learning, regular attendance and meeting of set deadlines,” said Prof. Bisaso.
Convinced that quality education begins with quality educators, the Deputy Principal guided students to invest time and resources to become quality teachers. He counselled them to embrace digitalization and e-learning, seek mentorship from those who have excelled in life, acquire professional skills, and adopt acceptable societal values and standards.
Prof. Bisaso encouraged the new students to take on leadership positions within the College and at the University level. “I recognize the College Guild Council, Makerere University Education Students Association (MESA) and other structures within the College that present our students with leadership opportunities. I charge you to take on leadership positions such as Class Representative, Discipline specific association leadership slots, among others. You should be a holistic student gifted in academics, leadership and other aspects of life at campus,” he remarked.
In the same vein, he recognized the Chairperson of the 91st College Guild Council (CGC), Hon. Samuel Asingya and his team, student associations such as MESA, for working in partnership with the College administration to host a successful orientation ceremony.
Delivering his remarks, the Dean-School of Education, Associate Prof. Mathias Mulumba Bwanika notified the first year students that Uganda needs educators who will inspire the future workforce.
Emphasizing the importance of attaining a good class of degree, Associate Prof. Mulumba Bwanika said: “Admission into the University is only the start – the real challenge is graduating with a degree that reflects your true potential.”
To achieve the desired outcome, Associate Prof. Mulumba Bwanika advised the students as follows: “You should have a work plan. Plan your day, week and semester. Attend all your lectures, read ahead of your lecturer, undertake research on different topics, form discussion groups, be punctual and disciplined.” He encouraged the first year students to consult and engage the Heads of Department, Subject and Program Coordinators, the College Administration and student leaders.
Tasking the students to consider joining the academia (teaching staff), research and the administrative arms of the University in future, he reminded the audience that he too was once a student. He testified that he was one of those students who focused on academics, and over the years, he is reaping the fruits of hard-work, discipline, and resilience.
He re-affirmed Makerere University’s zero-tolerance for sexual harassment, when he said: “No student should feel pressured to compromise their values. I request you to read the Policy and Regulations against sexual harassment, and the Makerere University Safeguarding Policy.”
Highlighting Makerere University’s strong academic support systems, the Dean, School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, Dr. Harriet Nabushawo, urged the students to effectively utilize the teaching and learning facilities in their academic pursuits. She reported that the School houses the Department of Open, Distance and e-Learning, which is championing e-learning and digital pedagogies.
The Dean mentioned that the School prioritizes student affairs through an open communication approach, involvement and engagement. She called upon students to have a positive attitude towards voluntary work, and cited Mr. Oscar Kizito, who accepted to volunteer at a very short notice, to provide sign language interpretation services at the orientation. She noted that this gesture alone had made him known to a wider audience, who wouldn’t hesitate to recommend his sign language interpretation services, when the opportunity arose. Dr. Nabushawo therefore called upon students to seize every opportunity and get the best out of it.
Representing Mr. Henry Nsubuga, the Deputy Chief of Counselling and Guidance Services, Ms. Rosemary Nalwanga, a Senior Counsellor, implored the students to have a sense of purpose. “Life is more than a degree. You need to learn other skills outside your degree. Be cooperative,” she guided.
On the issue of building positive relationships, Ms. Nalwanga advised students to acquire good friends. “Positive friends impact your future,” she stated.
Ms. Nalwanga explained that the Counselling and Guidance Centre exists to ensure that the emotional wellbeing of students is catered for. “I advise you not to take drugs. If you have any fears that you have failed to control, please come to Makerere University Counselling and Guidance Centre.”
Delivering her remarks, the College Registrar, Mrs. Joanna Kayaga Kiwana introduced the School Registrars present namely Ms. Molly Nantongo and Ms. Sandra Ampiire. The College Registrar tipped the first year students on academic policies, registration procedures, change of course guidelines, among other key aspects. She underscored the importance of timely registration. “Without registration, you are not an eligible student. You need to fulfill the registration procedures in order to access university services and facilities. Based on her experience, Mrs. Kayaga Kiwana reminded the students that their academic journey involves planning, discipline, listening to words of wisdom, holding on to your faith and being prayerful.
Ms. Ritah Namisango, the Principal Communication Officer, implored the students to participate in college events/functions, be goodwill ambassadors of the College, navigate the College website (https://cees.mak.ac.ug), and follow the College Social media pages, to be specific on X (formerly Twitter) on @MakCEES.
The College Bursar, Mr. Stephen Kayima, represented by Mr. Godfrey Wasikye sensitized students on the financial policies and payment guidelines. He appealed to students to adhere to the Fees Policy and the stipulated timelines. He stressed the need to document and keep a record of financial transactions during one’s academic journey, and urged the students to always consult the office of the College Bursar regarding financial obligations to the University.
On behalf of DICTS, Mr. Yunusu Musisi briefed the first year students on the different online academic and support systems. He appealed to the students to embrace digitization in order to utilise the systems. Mr. Musisi informed the students that the online systems are accessible and convenient. He requested them to always follow the social media platforms run by DICTS for instant messages including videos guiding students on how to use the particular systems such as the Makerere University e-Learning Environment (MUELE).
“MUELE helps students to access course materials, participate in online discussions and submit academic assignments virtually. The Makerere University students’ portal provides a platform for students to register, enroll for the semester, and keeps track of the students’ academic progress,” he reported.
On safety and well-being while on campus, Dr. Michael Walimbwa, a Senior Lecturer at CEES, and a Safeguarding Champion, described safeguarding as a means of protecting yourself and others from harm, exploitation and abuse. Safeguarding, he noted, stands for being safe, informed and empowered. Dr. Walimbwa tasked the students to read the Makerere University Safeguarding Policy, and to always report safeguarding concerns to the respective offices and safeguarding champions.
In her remarks, the College Librarian, Ms. Grace Akello presented the wide range of library services at the College. Regarding library users with special needs, Ms. Akello stated that the library team ensures that a member of staff is designated to provide sign language interpretation services.
The Chief Custodian, Ms. Agnes Nambuya emphasized handling University property entrusted to students during their studies with care. She requested the students to notify the Office of the Principal as well as the Chief Custodian, on matters pertaining to facilities and university property.
Presenting the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) framework and its benefits, Ms. Laeticia Asasira and Hon. Miracle Nassazi sensitized students on character, leadership, values and embracing a purpose-driven lifestyle. They rallied students to participate in the short trainings and activities organized by the ELP in order to be grounded in leadership, ethics, character building and formation.
The following university staff participated in the orientation ceremony: Prof. Ronald Bisaso-Deputy Principal, Associate Prof. Mathias Mulumba Bwanika-Dean of the School of Education, Dr. Harriet Nabushawo-Dean, School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, Mrs. Joanna Kayaga Kiwana-College Registrar, School Registrars (Ms. Molly Nantongo and Ms. Sandra Ampiire), Dr. Michael Walimbwa-Senior Lecturer, Mr. Vincent Muwonge-Coordinator BECE, Ms. Ritah Namisango-Principal Communication Officer, Mr. Emmanuel Lubega-Office of the Principal, Ms. Rosemary Nalwanga-Senior Counsellor, Mr. Godfrey Wasikye-Office of the College Bursar, Mr. Yunusu Musisi-DICTS, Ms. Agnes Nambuya-Chief Custodian, Ms. Grace Akello-College Librarian, and Mr. Moses Kibirango-Web Administrator.
The proceedings of the CEES Orientation were moderated by Ms. Ritah Namisango-Principal Communication Officer, assisted by student leaders namely Hon. David Ocola and Hon. Kenneth Mbabali.
Education
Real life project: Makerere University Vice Chancellor hands over constructed Wall Fence to Makerere College School
By Ritah Namisango and Harriet Musinguzi
On 12th November 2025, Makerere University officially handed over a newly constructed wall fence to Makerere College School. The real-life project was executed by technical students pursuing higher diploma courses in Civil Engineering and Architecture under the Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB). The students are enrolled at the Centre for Lifelong Learning and Teaching, which operates within the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) at Makerere University.
The Centre for Lifelong Learning, in partnership with UVTAB, is involved in implementing real life projects within the communities-a practical approach that ensures that students identify problems within the community, hold collaborative discussions, and come up with projects to solve the problems.
The handover ceremony of the newly constructed Wall Fence was witnessed by key stakeholders that included officials from UVTAB, the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), the leadership of Makerere College School, UVTAB Deputy Executive Secretary and the technical students pursuing the higher diploma in Architecture and Civil Engineering.
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, represented by the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Prof. Anthony M. Mugagga, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Martin Muyingo, Head Teacher of Makerere College School, for providing a valuable learning space to students under the lifelong learning and teaching program. He acknowledged Prof. Dorothy Okello-Chairperson of the Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB), Prof. Moses Musinguzi-Principal of CEDAT, course instructors, and students for their commendable contributions. He noted that the newly constructed wall stands as a testament to the power of lifelong learning and practical teaching.
The Vice Chancellor commended the management and staff of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) for implementing programmes through the Centre of Lifelong learning, which are aligned to the Makerere University’s Strategic Plan. He observed that the partnership with UVTAB increases the number of students accessing quality education services, enhances lifelong learning, promotes practical education, and contributes to community transformation.
Congratulating the technical students upon this milestone, and in solidarity, the Vice Chancellor wrote: “I am an architect and courses in my profession go deep to my heart. Congratulations to the students, the engineers, and course instructors.”
Prof. Nawangwe emphasized the importance of architecture-related courses and praised Makerere’s longstanding commitment to student-centered learning, innovation, and thought leadership principles that have guided the university for over two decades. He highlighted that Makerere’s strategic direction aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan IV and Vision 2040, which advocates for inclusive, equitable, and lifelong education. This vision, he said, reflects the aspirations of His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the Government of Uganda’s education agenda.
He explained that the Centre for Lifelong Learning (CLL) at CEES, serves as a bridge between the university and the community. It offers opportunities to Ugandan youth and individuals who lack the financial means or academic qualifications to access Makerere’s mainstream programs, to join UVTAB technical education programmes, with instructors at Makerere University Centre for Lifelong Learning. Students enrolled in the program typically come from A-level backgrounds or hold certificates from technical institutions.
He highlighted that long before the Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Education and Sports, restructured the secondary school curriculum to embrace competence-based teaching and learning, Makerere University had already been championing student-centered education. For over two decades, the university has promoted innovation, experiential learning, and thought leadership.
Ms. Jalia Nassaza, the Acting Deputy Executive Secretary of the Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB), emphasized the importance of real-life projects within the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) curriculum. She explained that these projects enable students to identify community challenges, engage in collaborative discussions, and develop practical solutions ultimately shaping them into holistic professionals. Through this approach, learners gain essential skills in planning, teamwork, and applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Ms. Nassaza emphasized the need for an education system in Uganda that equips students to solve local problems and improve their surroundings. “We want to make our education realistic by translating knowledge into solving problems,” she affirmed.
The Principal of the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, Prof. Moses Musinguzi while congratulating the students upon the completed wall fence structure and other projects, noted that as professionals, scientists get a lot of public criticism because they are the core of providing solutions to societal problems. He said the commissioning of the fence was testimony that the university in partnership with UVTAB, was teaching students ways of solving problems around them. He said that as a college, CEDAT provides access to the required infrastructure in the labs, workshops, and studios, as well as technicians who support the teaching.
Prof. Musinguzi said Makerere University was considering a revision of the assessment, making continuous assessment total to 60%, while classwork is rated at 40%. He also mentioned the CEDAT model, whereby the university was considering utilizing students in technical subjects to support the Estates and Works Department in infrastructural maintenance and service works instead of hiring externally, and that students on both Diploma and Degree programs would be engaged. ‘We need to see scientists directly engaged in the development of the country,’ he emphasized.
Speaking on behalf of the instructors, Mr. Barnabas Mabonga highlighted some of the students’ requirements that included the need for basic tools, providing opportunities for their academic progression to degree programs, and strengthening the safety measures. Some of the actual projects that the AVTAB technical students under CEES and CEDAT have worked on at Makerere College School include: a yard constructed at the boys’ hostel, the wall fence, and a drainage system. He said 173 students out of whom 28 are girls, were enrolled in the Civil Engineering and Architecture higher diploma program. He informed the Vice Chancellor and other guests present that the students in the real-life learning and teaching programs were excelling in performance, with a pass rate of 99%.
Dr. Oscar Mugula, Coordinator of the Centre for Lifelong Learning, emphasized the value of community engagement in their academic programs. He noted that the partnership with Makerere College School began two years ago, when students from the center undertook repair works on the school’s infrastructure. The collaboration has proven mutually beneficial, with the beneficiary school experiencing reduced development costs, while students, particularly those studying technical drawing, gained hands-on experience through the perimeter wall project, which contributed to their coursework and project assessments for the year.
In partnership with UVTAB, the Centre for Lifelong Learning offers diploma courses in Civil Engineering, Architecture, and Electrical Engineering. The students pursuing these courses are examined and accredited by UVTAB. Students benefit from experiential learning at CEDAT, where they are encouraged to innovate using affordable, locally sourced materials. They are also placed in real-world workstations and garages to observe best practices and avoid unethical conduct. Graduates of the program either join the workforce or continue their academic journey at the university.
The Center for Lifelong Learning at CEES is charged with the duty to take the university to the community, providing opportunities to Uganda’s youth and persons interested in technical education, who may not have the requisite funds or grades to join the university’s degree programmes. The students on the program are either directly from A-level or other technical institutions.
Education
Digital Education: CEES holds stakeholders’ workshop to inform curricula for Postgraduate Diploma in Education (Online Track)
November, 4th 2025: Makerere University through the College of Education and External Studies, has been offering the Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) following the face-to-face delivery model.
In addition, to the physically taught Postgraduate Diploma in Education, the College of Education and External Studies, embarked on a process of curriculum development, for the online delivery model (PGDE-online).
This strategic option presents learners with a choice to either enroll for the physically taught (face to face) or the online Postgraduate Diploma in Education.
The introduction of the online mode of delivery for the Postgraduate Diploma in Education was informed by wide consultations, which revealed that many working adults including teachers, and distant learners, who wished to study the programme, were unable to attend. Engagements with such prospective applicants, called for the online delivery option.
To address this challenge, in March 2024, the College of Education and External Studies, embarked on developing the curriculum for the online option. The PGDE (online track) will be delivered on the Makerere University eLearning Environment (MUELE).
According to staff at the College of Education and External Studies, the online delivery model will enable learners to study remotely while acquiring modern pedagogical and digital skills essential for the 21st century education.
College hosts Stakeholders’ workshop to enrich curricula for the online delivery option:
On 4th November 2025, the College of Education and External Studies hosted a stakeholders’ workshop to enrich the curriculum document.
The workshop brought on board various stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES), the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC), the Department of the Academic Registrar, Directorate of Graduate Training, former students of the College who studied the Postgraduate Diploma in Education (face-to-face), staff from other units within Makerere University, and representatives from other education institutions including Ndejje University, Uganda Christian University-Mukono, and Uganda Martyrs’ University-Nkozi.
Remarks by the Head of Department:
Welcoming the participants, Dr. Genza Gyaviira Musoke, the Head of the Department of Foundations and Curriculum Studies thanked the stakeholders for accepting to dedicate time, to participate in the workshop. He called upon the stakeholders to suggest strategies aimed at ensuring that the PGDE delivered though the face-to-face model blends and complements the proposed online track.
College Principal emphasizes digital pedagogies:
The Principal, notified the stakeholders, that the College of Education and External Studies through the Institute of Open, Distance and e-Learning (IODeL), is credited for the operationalization of the Makerere University e-Learning platform (MUELE), which enabled online teaching and learning during the CoVID-19 pandemic.
Impressed by this milestone, the Vice Chancellor-Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, tasked the College of Education and External Studies, to come up with innovative teaching and learning pedagogies.
On this note, Professor Mugagga applauded the Department of Foundation and Curriculum Studies and the School of Education, for responding to the call from the Vice Chancellor, which has led to the development of the curriculum for the online delivery of the Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE-online).
Emphasizing the trends in the education sector, he highlighted the technological demands presented by the Competence based curriculum (CBC), the National Teacher Policy of 2019, the Ministry of Education and Sports requirements for all teachers to be degree holders, and the need to embrace artificial intelligence (AI). He stressed that these reforms require teachers who are grounded in digital/online pedagogies, to nurture, teach and mentor, the next generation of students and teachers.
Presentation from the Director of Open, Distance and e-Learning:
Professor Paul Birevu Muyinda, underscored that the development of the online delivery of programs fits within the digital strategy for Uganda, launched by the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) in August 2024.
In line with the Ministry’s vision of increasing access to education, through the online delivery of the Postgraduate Diploma in Education, Makerere University is extending access to quality education services.
Professor Muyinda noted that the online delivery option, is aligned to the digital transformation agenda of the University, which is stipulated in the University’s Strategic Plan.
He acknowledged the Chairperson of the Committee, Dr. Harriet Najjemba, and her team for the valuable work, which has led to the draft curriculum, that the stakeholders had convened to discuss.
Opening the Stakeholders’ Workshop:
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Professor Sarah Ssali, represented by Dr. Julius Kikooma, the Director of Graduate Training, commended the College of Education and External Studies, for the timely intervention, that will enable students to access quality education online. Noting that the evolution of academic programmes is within her mandate, Professor Ssali thanked the College for bringing on board various stakeholders, to provide valuable ideas.
Presentation of the proposed curriculum for the PGDE (online):
Presenting the proposed curriculum, Dr. Alfred Buluma from the School of Education highlighted the comprehensive design, online teaching and learning infrastructure for programme delivery, programme objectives and outcomes, core course units and electives, employment prospects, as well as, the availability of competent and technologically grounded staff to deliver the programme.
Dr. Buluma explained that the Postgraduate Diploma in Education (online) shall be a blended programme, heavily online, and with limited face-to-face interactions. He emphasized that Makerere University possesses adequate resources and infrastructure to support the program.
He acknowledged the involvement of staff from multiple departments: Humanities and Higher Education, Science and Technical Education, and Foundations and Curriculum Studies, alongside e-learning support staff.
Input from internal stakeholders:
Principal of the College:
Professor Anthony Muwagga Mugagga submitted that the proposed curriculum should embrace the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) in teaching and learning. He urged the participants to critically think about the delivery of experiments and practical classes online.
Reflecting on the remote areas in Uganda, where citizens do not have access to electricity and Internet, Professor Mugagga challenged the stakeholders, to bear in mind, the issue of inclusive education, and the possibility of delivery of online education, to teachers and students in such areas.
Directorate of Graduate Training:
Associate Professor Julius Kikooma, guided that the programme should strengthen the research capabilities of students/learners. He explained that the programme should provide a linkage to the research priorities stated in the Makerere University research agenda, as well as, the National Development Plan (NDPIV). As the team designs the curriculum, he encouraged them to study the University Senate guidelines document. He advised the team to include the knowledge areas, and learning outcomes. Citing the Graduate Students Handbook, Associate Professor Kikooma stressed the section on quality assurance that highlights the following competence areas: disciplinary knowledge, transferable skills, professional, and research competences.
Department of the Academic Registrar:
Stating its responsibility, the Senior Assistant Academic Registrar-Ms. Enid Kemari, who represented the Academic Registrar-Professor Buyinza Mukadasi, explained that the Department ensures that the proposed curriculum meets the standards set by the University and the National Council for Higher Education.
She referenced the Makerere University Policy on Open, Distance, and E-Learning, highlighting its main objective of increasing access to higher education through flexible learning modes. Ms. emphasized several key policy areas critical to the new online teacher education programme.
She commended the School of Education for aligning its program with national and institutional policies, noting that it will enable teachers, especially those already employed, to upgrade their qualifications without leaving their jobs. “It will contribute significantly to improving education quality in Uganda,” she said.
Plenary Session involving external stakeholders:
The plenary session provided the following recommendations.
- The online delivery should encompass the 21st century education expectations and demands of a learner and teacher.
- In addition, to increasing access to quality education, the curriculum document under the section “justification of the programme” should state the new areas in the education field, and the changed context under which teachers are operating.
- It should emphasize using the Makerere University e-Learning Environment (MUELE) in both teaching and learning.
- The curriculum should focus on developing the skills of learners (not only as those being taught), but also being empowered as learners to teach using the online delivery.
- There is need for retooling courses for both the teachers and learners as well as engagements on using artificial intelligence (AI) ethically.
Way forward:
Dr. Genza Gyaviira Musoke, highlighted that the input from stakeholders would be incorporated into the proposed curriculum. He briefed the participants that the proposed curriculum would be presented to the School of Education Academic Board, the College of Education and External Studies Academic Board, the University Senate and Council, and to the National Council for Higher Education.
On 5th November 2025, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Professor Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, hosted an inception meeting to discuss the modalities of setting up a daycare facility anchored within the Early Childhood Care Education strategy and the Competence Based Education trends.
Early Childhood Care and Development is the foundation of the education sector. Therefore, initiatives such as the daycare facility, are testimony to Makerere University’s commitment to the implementation of programmes aimed at strengthening early childhood care education. The facility will also serve as a demonstration centre for students and staff engaged in Early Childhood Care Education programmes.
The daycare facility to be hosted at the College of Education and External Studies will be enriched by best practices from Uganda, Norway and Ethiopia
The inception meeting brought onboard Early Childhood Care Education specialists from both the College of Education and External Studies and the Partnership for Change in Norway, staff from Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, and the Office of the Dean of Students.
The Partnership for Change is a Norwegian Organization that supports aspiring countries to develop a thriving Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) sector and women’s economic empowerment in several countries. The delegates from Partnership for Change in Norway included: Oscar Haugejorden, Birikit Terefe, and Nasanet Hailemariam.
Welcoming the delegation from Norway and the respective internal stakeholders, the Principal expressed the readiness of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) to host the daycare facility that will be utilized by both staff and students.
Professor Mugagga flanked by Dr. Peter Ssenkusu, both specialists in early childhood care education, highlighted that the College conducts a Bachelor’s degree, Masters’ degree, and PhD in early childhood care education and development. The CEES leadership reported that there is an increasing demand for early childhood care education programmes at Makerere University.
“Whereas Makerere University through the College of Education and External Studies had expected applicants from Diploma Holders, the realities proved that students who had completed the Advanced level of education (Senior Six) were interested in the academic programmes, and consequently applied,” said Professor Mugagga. He disclosed that the first advert to the (Bachelor of Early Childhood Development) attracted 500 applicants from Advanced level, Makerere University could only admit 110. He stated that the second advert, attracted 1,000 applicants, but they could take on, only 120.
Commenting on the gender (female to male) enrollment into Early Childhood Care Education (ECCE) at Makerere University, he said: “I am delighted to note that this year, Makerere University admitted 30 male students into the ECCE academic programme. This is an interesting trend that the boy child is also joining the ECCE programmes, that initially had attracted mostly female students.”
Partnership for Change underscores working with local partners and experts
Appreciating the warm reception at the College of Education and External Studies, the delegation expressed readiness to partner with Makerere University to contribute to the advancement of Early Childhood Education in Uganda. “Through this inception meeting at the College of Education and External Studies, history is being made. Makerere University and the Partnership for Change will contribute to strengthening of the early childhood care education sector in Uganda and beyond.”
The Head of the Delegation, Oscar Haugejorden, underscored the value of partnerships at all levels of their work and operation. “Partnerships are very important to us. We do not work alone. We work with local partners,” emphasized Oscar Haugejorden, the Managing Director, Partnership for Change.
In pursuit of this partnership, the delegation expressed readiness to work with the leadership at Makerere University-the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellors, Dean of Students, Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, the College of Education and External Studies, and the government of Uganda through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development.
The delegation committed to following standards and regulations that govern daycare centres and working with nationals who are experts in the different fields/disciplines such as certified local engineers.
The discussion revealed that the success of the Partnership for Change Early Childhood Care Education programmes is built on experience, trust, stakeholder engagements, involvement of the local partners and experts, and a great deal of advocacy.
The daycare facility to be hosted at the College of Education and External Studies will be enriched by best practices from Uganda, Norway and Ethiopia.
Success stories of ECCE in Ethiopia
In Ethiopia, The Partnership for Change, promotes social and economic development, with a focus on childcare and healthcare.
The delegation informed the Makerere University officials about the success of the ECCE programme built on partnerships with the government, schools, stakeholder engagements and involvement of citizens in Ethiopia. “Through partnerships and advocacy, Early Childhood Care Education has been institutionalized in Ethiopia. In addition, the government established 750 daycare centres.”
According to the Partnership for Change team, the government and citizens of Ethiopia, understood and appreciated the cardinal duty to nurture and care for the young ones, as parents joined the workforce. “Early childhood care education, and daycare centres, contributed to the economic transformation of Ethiopia. Parents could concentrate on their work or service to the nation without worrying about their babies or children. Parents entrusted their babies/children to the professional teams in parenting and early childhood care education, who are managing the daycare facilities.”
Gender Mainstreaming Directorate inspired by positive attitude towards ECCE
Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine, the Chief of Gender Mainstreaming at Makerere University, articulated that prioritization of early childhood care education, and its essential components such as daycare centres, would significantly contribute to the transformation of the education sector.
Providing the Ugandan context, Dr. Mugisha Baine, noted that for decades, early childhood care education, had been left to the private sector. Reflecting on the last five years, she observed that the government, universities and a number of stakeholders, have developed keen interest in the early childhood care education field including its operationalization, management, and its delivery. Dr. Mugisha Baine, is optimistic that with the change in attitude, early childhood care education will continue to grow, evolve and impact the learners, teachers and providers. She reiterated the need for Universities to have fully fledged daycare facilities. She expressed her readiness to learn new knowledge and skills as the daycare facility is rolled out at the College of Education and External Studies.
Office of the Dean of Students commends the timely intervention
The Dean of Students-Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, represented by the Warden of Mary Stuart Hall, Ms. Norah Nalubowa, commended the ongoing efforts to refurbish and remodel a daycare facility at the College of Education and External Studies.
Ms. Nalubowa notified the meeting that during the examination period, some students who come with their babies and/or children, have been experiencing challenges, because they could not enter with them in the examination venues.
Drawing from the aforementioned experiences, Ms. Nalubowa explained that the daycare facility is a timely intervention, that will enable such students, to entrust their babies and/or children to the professional team managing the facility.
Way Forward
The proceedings of the inception meeting at the College of Education and External Studies were a precursor to other stakeholder engagements on integration of early childhood care education facilities into the education sector. The team is scheduled to meet officials in the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development in Uganda. Specific to Makerere University, the team is expected to meet the Vice Chancellor-Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, and the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-Professor Sarah Ssali, on Friday 7th November 2025.
Participants
The following Makerere University staff members participated in the inception meeting: Ms. Norah Nalubowa-representing the Dean of Students, CEES staff including – Professor Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Dr. Peter Ssenkusu, Ms. Ritah Namisango, Mr. Emmanuel Lubega, Mr. Moses Kibirango, and Gender Mainstreaming Staff including – Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine, Ms. Susan Mbabazi, Mr. Eric Tumwesigye, Ms. Lillian Tukahirwa and Ms. Cynthia Komakech Ayaa.
Writer: Ritah Namisango, is a Principal Communication Officer at Makerere University
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General6 days agoMakerere University Writing Centre trains first cohort of staff on professional minute writing
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General1 week agoMeet Sedrick Nuwagaba, a Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni Contributing to Uganda’s Oil & Gas Industry
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General3 days agoCall For Applications: Mak-BSSR Postdoc, PhD, Master’s Fellowship-level Training
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Health1 week agoNACNDC & 19th JASH Symposium Breaks Silence on Mental Health in Schools & Universities
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Business & Management1 week agoUganda National Academy of Science inducts Professor Edward Bbaale as Distinguished Fellow