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
Advancing Education Policy Dialogue through Partnership: Makerere Hosts the 2026 Senteza Kajubi Fulbright Memorial Lecture
Makerere University continues to position itself as a hub for global academic exchange and strategic partnerships, as demonstrated by the successful hosting of the 2026 Professor William Senteza Kajubi Fulbright Memorial Lecture.
Now in its fourth edition since the revitalisation of the lecture series in 2022, the Kajubi Lecture has evolved beyond a commemorative academic event into a powerful platform for institutional collaboration, most notably between Makerere University and the United States Embassy in Uganda. This partnership, anchored in the shared legacy of Professor William Senteza Kajubi as the first African Fulbright Scholar, reflects a deeper commitment to knowledge exchange, diplomacy, and education reform.
The 2026 lecture, held on April 23 at the Makerere University Main Hall, convened a diverse audience of policymakers, scholars, Fulbright alumni, students, and development partners, underscoring the multi-stakeholder approach required to drive meaningful education reform.
At the heart of this collaboration is a shared belief in the transformative power of education and international exchange. In his remarks, the United States Ambassador to Uganda, William W. Popp, emphasised that the Fulbright Program represents more than academic mobility; it is a bridge between nations, fostering mutual understanding and long-term cooperation. He noted that such exchanges strengthen both countries by creating enduring networks of collaboration and shared knowledge.
This partnership is not incidental but rather intentional. Through the Advancement and International Office, Makerere University has strategically aligned the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) with the U.S. Embassy to ensure that the Kajubi Lecture serves as both an intellectual platform and a diplomatic touchpoint. The lecture reinforces ongoing cooperation while also expanding opportunities for academic exchange, research collaboration, and alumni engagement.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Mary Goretti Nakabugo, Executive Director of Uwezo Uganda, brought the discussion back to the core purpose of education policy: enabling student success. Her address traced the enduring influence of the Kajubi legacy on Uganda’s education system, highlighting both progress and persistent challenges in access, quality, and relevance.
At the heart of her message was a return to Kajubi’s foundational belief: that education is both a basic human right and a tool for shaping responsible citizens. Education, she emphasised, must go beyond the acquisition of certificates to cultivate values, critical thinking, and a sense of civic responsibility.
A central critique in the keynote was the increasing dominance of technocratic approaches to education policy. While economic growth and workforce readiness are important, Dr. Nakabugo cautioned against reducing education to a tool for productivity alone. In doing so, systems risk neglecting the broader purpose of education, to nurture well-rounded individuals capable of contributing meaningfully to society.
This calls for a redefinition of student success. Success, she argued, should not be measured solely by enrollment or completion rates, but by meaningful outcomes: literacy, competence, retention, and the ability to apply knowledge in real-world contexts. It is about preparing learners not just for jobs, but for life.
To achieve this, Dr. Nakabugo called for a renewed commitment to the Kajubi vision. This includes making education truly universal and equitable, investing in teachers and infrastructure, strengthening inclusive support systems, and reducing the financial burden on families. Equally important is the need to re-centre values such as critical thinking, citizenship, and accountability within the education system.
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University further underscored this point, noting that education remains one of the most powerful instruments for building bridges between people and cultures. He expressed appreciation to the United States for its continued support, recognising the partnership as a critical contributor to Uganda’s development and to Makerere’s global outlook.
Before the Senteza Kajubi Memorial lecture, at a farewell cocktail session for H.E Ambassador. William Popp, the Vice Chancellor, expressed sincere appreciation to H.E. Amb. William W. Popp for his distinguished service and steadfast support to Makerere University during his tenure. He noted that the United States has remained a key partner in advancing the University’s global engagement, with a significant number of Makerere’s academic and institutional partnerships anchored in collaborations with U.S. universities. The Vice Chancellor commended Ambassador Popp for strengthening these ties and for his commitment to fostering academic exchange, research collaboration, and mutual understanding between Uganda and the United States.
Importantly, the Kajubi Lecture continues to serve as a convening space for Fulbright alumni, policymakers, and scholars, reinforcing a growing network of individuals committed to shaping the future of education in Uganda and beyond. This aligns with the broader objective of the lecture to initiate and sustain conversations on education policy reform while strengthening institutional and international cooperation.
As Makerere University advances its strategic priorities in internationalisation and alumni engagement, the Kajubi Fulbright Memorial Lecture stands out as a model of how legacy, partnership, and purpose can converge to drive impact.
Kainomugisha Caroline is the Communications Officer, Advancement Office, Makerere University.
Education
Makerere Takes Lead in Transitioning Universities to Competency-Based Education in East and West Africa
According to Nelson Mandela “Education is the most powerful weapon that you can use to change the world.” This powerful statement resonates with the strides being undertaken by the Government of Uganda to transform the education sector through the Competency-Based Education model.
According to the experts in the field, competency-based education is about the change of methodology from the teacher-centred to the learner-centred approach that positions the learner at the heart of the learning, teaching and innovative processes.
In Uganda, the Ministry of Education of Education and Sports, in partnership with regulators has rolled out a road-map for education institutions at the different levels namely pre-primary, primary, secondary, technical, and universities to transition to the competency-based education (CBE) model.
At the University level, the Ministry of Education and Sports in partnership with the respective Universities, the National Council for Higher Education in Uganda (NCHE), and the Uganda Vice Chancellor’s Forum (UVCF), have lined up several strategies aimed at aligning academic programmes, curricula, research and innovations with the competency-based education (CBE) model.
Ministry tasks Makerere University to provide leadership on CBE
Specific to universities, the directive from the Ministry of Education and Sports was amplified on Tuesday 25th February 2026, during the 76th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University.
“Earlier on, I directed that all institutions of higher learning prepare for full implementation of competency-based education and training by July 2027. This is a fundamental shift in how we prepare our graduates. We are moving towards a model that emphasizes practical skills, innovation, and problem-solving, directly aligned with the needs of industry and the economy,” stated Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni in a speech read by Hon. Joyce Moriku Kaducu.
“In this regard, I want to specifically and strongly encourage Makerere University, as our premier institution, of higher learning to champion this directive. I request the Vice Chancellor and your team to lead the way in developing curricula, training staff, and establishing the necessary infrastructure to make competency-based education a reality,” added the Minister.
TRUCE project aligns with Makerere’s Competency-based education agenda
The policy directive from the Ministry of Education and Sports, coincides with Makerere University’s partnership with nine (9) consortium partners to implement an Erasmus+ Capacity Building Higher Education project. Titled Transitioning Higher Education Regulators and Universities to Competency-Based Education in East and West Africa (TRUCE), the project seeks to strengthen the capacities of universities and higher education regulators in Uganda and Ghana to transition to Competency-Based Education (CBE).
Funded by the European Union, the four year TRUCE project (December 2025 to 30th December 2029) draws from African and European expertise in curriculum reform, assessment, quality assurance, digital pedagogy, and stakeholder engagements. TRUCE brings together Makerere University as the lead partner, working with, the Mountains of the Moon University, University of Ghana, Legon University of Education, Winneba, Universitat de Barcelona, Instituto Politecnico do Porto, the National Council for Higher Education of Uganda, the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, and RUFORUM.
At Makerere University, the TRUCE Project is implemented through the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), with Associate Professor Josephine Esaete as the Principal Investigator, and Professor Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, the Principal of CEES providing oversight. At the strategic level, the TRUCE Project brings onboard Vice Chancellors of the participating universities, Deputy Vice Chancellors, Academic Registrars, the Directors of Quality Assurance, and Chief Executive Officers.
TRUCE Objectives
The project pursues four (4) interlinked objectives:
- Retooling university faculty and higher education regulators in Uganda and Ghana on competence based education
- Developing guidelines for the design, implementation, and assessment of competence based education
- Strengthening collaboration between universities , and the assessment of competence based education
- Improving the capacity of regulatory bodies and higher education institutions to assure the quality of CBE programmes
TRUCE project holds Inception meeting
Bringing onboard over 30 participants, with a minimum of three (3) representatives from each of the nine (9) participating institutions, a TRUCE inception meeting was held on the 8th and 9th of April 2026. It featured remarks from selected partners and regulators, a session aimed at reaching a common understanding of the project scope and start-up priorities, alignment of partner expectations, presentations on financial management, quality assurance principles and indicators, discussion of the five (5) work packages, work plan and budget alignment per work package, consideration of the risk register, decision log, key dates for project activities and stakeholder engagements, as well as, adoption of meeting resolutions.
The work packages, which form the core of the TRUCE project are outlined below:
- Project Management, Coordination and Oversight
- Development and piloting of guidelines for CBE design, implementation, and assessment
- Development of Collaborative Learning ecosystem for CBEs in Higher Education Institutions
- Capacity building for regulators, faculty, managers in CBE design, implementation, and assessment
- Dissemination, Communication and Impact
Purpose of the TRUCE Inception meeting
Dr. Josephine Esaete, an Associate Professor at Makerere University, and Principal Investigator of the project, welcomed the national and international participants to the TRUCE inception meeting.
“Your presence and participation, is testimony to your commitment to the TRUCE project focused on significantly contributing to the transformation of the education sector. TRUCE is grounded in learner-centered pedagogies, which position the learner as the key driver of his or her education or learning process,” said Associate Professor Josephine Esaete.
Emphasizing the importance of the two-day engagement, Associate Professor Esaete said: “This kick-off meeting is aimed at aligning all partners on the project logic, working methods, responsibilities, and implementation expectations for TRUCE.” She articulated that the meeting would provide a formal platform for adopting the consortium’s start-up decisions so that the project moves from inception into coordinated implementation.
“To ensure implementable decisions, the inception meeting programme, combines short plenary inputs, structured technical sessions, regulator-university dialogue, work package planning sessions, and a final decision session,” she explained.
Role of the Colleges or Schools of Education in CBE implementation
Responding to key issues from a brief, but interactive plenary session, Associate Professor Josephine Esaete flanked by Dr. Alfred Buluma, Dr. Michael Walimbwa, Dr. Julius Shopi Mbulankende, from the College of Education and External Studies, at Makerere University, highlighted that the ultimate goal of the TRUCE project envisions impacting the entire university, as well as, the education system in general.
In pursuit of this goal, the team explained that in addition to the Project Management Team (PMT), at the strategic level, TRUCE is structured with a Project Advisory Board (PAB), which consists of Vice Chancellors, Principals, or Chief Executive Officers of the participating consortium partners.
At the implementation level, the Colleges or Schools of Education, play a fundamental role in determining the formulation of teaching, learning and digital pedagogies, curriculum development, and early childhood education.
“The starting point in changing education in a given country should be the teacher. We are intentional on rolling out programmes to strengthen the capacities and competences within the Schools of Education in Universities because those Units have the mandate to influence the entire education system,” explained Dr. Alfred Buluma, Co-Principal Investigator, TRUCE project.
TRUCE positions Makerere for more collaboration opportunities
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe represented by Professor Anthony Muwagga Mugagga congratulated the TRUCE universities and partners for winning the research grant, which seeks to re-model the education system, transform Africa and the world at large.
The Vice Chancellor observed that competence based education provides the best approach of producing critical thinkers and innovative learners with problem solving abilities.
Building on the spin offs of the TRUCE project including the number of participating universities and reputable partners, the Vice Chancellor extended an olive branch for more collaborations. “Makerere University welcomes collaborations through the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in areas of mutual interest, joint research and publications, student and staff exchanges, visiting professors, and external examinations,” he said.
Emphasizing transparency and accountability for funds, the Vice Chancellor appealed to the participating institutions and partners to strictly adhere to the guidelines and templates provided by the funding partner-the European Union.
TRUCE enhances CEES’ competency-based education profile
The Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Prof. Mugagga stated that the TRUCE project was a timely intervention. “In Uganda, the shift to competency-based education is challenging. Makerere University and the College of Education and External Studies are implementing several strategies including re-tooling teachers to adapt to CBE. Therefore, the TRUCE project with its objectives, is a welcome intervention, as we advance to CBE,” he stated.
In the same vein, Professor Mugagga commended the TRUCE project for bringing onboard the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), a reputable partner with expertise in managing international projects.
RUFORUM commits to aligning programmes with Competency-based education
Building on related initiatives such as AgriCBE, the TRUCE project aims to contribute to more relevant, market-responsive graduates and stronger university-regulator-industry linkages. Prof. Anthony Egeru, Programme Manager, Training and Community Development at the RUFORUM Secretariat, informed the participants that the TRUCE project commences on a solid foundation.
“RUFORUM has been actively involved in initiatives at the national and international levels of aligning agriculture programmes to competency-based education. RUFORUM has implemented several research and international projects in partnership with Makerere University, which provides a firm ground for the successful execution of the TRUCE project. RUFORUM works closely with the different colleges at Makerere University to execute research, innovations and community development programmes,” said Professor Egeru.
With respect to aligning academic programmes with the competency-based education model, Professor Egeru mentioned that over the years, RUFORUM has implemented several research and project activities with the Makerere University College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES).
Professor Egeru said the TRUCE project presents yet another opportunity to RUFORUM and Makerere University through the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) to enhance the quality of education through building a critical mass of teachers, trainer of trainers, learners and experts in competency-based education.
On the issue of successful coordination and execution of the project activities, the RUFORUM Secretariat called upon the participating institutions and each member involved in the project, to read and understand the agreements, proposal, guidelines, travel arrangements, and to initiative procurement early so that the activities are implemented within the stipulated timelines.
TRUCE supporting other universities
During the inception meeting, participants and stakeholders appreciated the approach consisting of training and capacity building programmes lined up to create a pool of competency-based education (CBE) facilitators. “The TRUCE project will support other universities in the region by creating a critical mass of experts who understand competency-based education,” said Dr. Michael Walimbwa, a member of the TRUCE implementation team.
NCHE urges universities to train staff in Competency-based education
The National Council for Higher Education in Uganda (NCHE) is a key partner in the TRUCE project. The Executive Director of NCHE, Professor Mary J. N. Okwakol represented by Mr. David Musiimaani, Head of Standards, Recognition and Equating of Qualifications, congratulated the participating institutions on the TRUCE project and its intended objectives.
At the TRUCE inception meeting, Mr. Musiimaani highlighted that NCHE has taken the necessary steps to ensure that the alignment with CBE is done. He reported that NCHE had developed the minimum standard guidelines of competence based education. He implored the University Management in the respective institutions to train staff in order to execute the Competence Based Education (CBE) model.
GTEC-Ghana commends the TRUCE project
Sharing his experience, Prof. Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai, the Director-General, Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), said: “In Ghana, we are working towards technical education, but it is difficult.”
Drawing from his experience and lessons learned, Professor Jinapor Abdulai, informed participants that Competency-based education (CBE) requires commitment in terms of strategy, time, and investment in staff.
The Director General welcomed the TRUCE project as a timely intervention, which seeks to empower universities and regulators with Competency-based education (CBE) knowledge through re-tooling of staff, and on-boarding of partners through consultations, involvement and capacity building.
Consensus
The inception meeting concluded on a high note, with participants, regulators and stakeholders re-affirming their commitment to adapt to the competency-based education model through innovative teaching and learning pedagogies, undertaking research projects, participating in community development, training and re-tooling, bench-marking best practices, as well as, scaling up partnerships at the national and international levels.
Makerere University Truce Project Implementation Team
At the end of the inception meeting, the following participants were introduced as members of the TRUCE Implementation team at Makerere University: Associate Professor Josephine Esaete, Dr. Alfred Buluma, Dr. Michael Walimbwa, Dr. Julius Shopi Mbulankende. Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga and Ms. Teddie Nassali (Project Management and Oversight) as well as Ms. Ritah Namisango (on the Communication, Dissemination and Impact Work Package).
Education
Makerere University Students and Staff participate in Prof. Peter Jarvis Memorial Lecture at Gulu University
Students and Staff from the Department of Adult and Community Education under the College of Education and External Studies at Makerere University, on 15th April 2026, participated in the Second Professor Peter Jarvis Memorial Lecture, held at Gulu University in a hybrid format, bringing together scholars, practitioners, and students from across the region.
Held under the theme “The Individual, The Collective and The Learning Society,” the lecture created a dynamic platform for reflecting on Prof. Jarvis’s enduring contribution to adult and lifelong learning, particularly within the African context.
A highlight of the event was the powerful tribute by Makerere University students, who presented selected quotations from Prof. Jarvis’s work, demonstrating both intellectual depth and practical understanding of adult learning principles. Among the reflections shared was Jarvis’s assertion that:
“Education is a social provision of learning opportunities, not just the idealistic kind but one driven by the desire to make the world better.”
Democracy, lifelong learning and learning society: “I remain convinced that learning is intrinsic to human living and that we will never completely understand the process until we understand life itself, our approach to learning has, therefore, to be inclusive”
Towards a comprehensive theory of human learning: “Society needs free people if it is to change or develop in any manner—people who will keep on learning and acting independently but doing so for the good of the whole group.”
Students also engaged the audience with his insight that:
“All learning begins with experience, but not all experience results in learning,”
emphasizing the importance of critical reflection in transforming experience into meaningful learning.
The Department was actively represented in the academic programme through scholarly contributions. Dr. Dianah Nampijja, Graduate Coordinator, facilitated a dialogical session on:
“Continuous Professional Development, Community Learning and Lifelong Learning in Practice: The Individual and Development Partners.”
In another session, Dr. Hannington Bananuka Twine (Emeritus, Department of Adult and Community Education) contributed to a dialogical engagement on:
“African Socialism and Adult Education as Transformation in Tanzania: Navigating Neoliberalism and Sustaining Communal Ownership,” in collaboration with Ms. Leonia Kassamia from the Institute of Adult Education, Tanzania.
These sessions enriched the discourse by linking Jarvis’s theoretical contributions to contemporary issues in adult education, including community development, professional learning, and the sustainability of collective approaches in changing socio-economic contexts.
The Acting Head of Department, Dr. Joseph Watuleke, provided overall leadership to the Makerere delegation physically present at Gulu University, coordinating participation and engagement throughout the event.
The Memorial Lecture, organized under the PAR & Lifelong Learning Series, seeks to stimulate intellectual activism by exploring Jarvis’s concepts of agency and the learning market within the context of Eastern Africa’s adult education and policy environment.
Participation in this lecture underscores Makerere University’s continued commitment to advancing adult and lifelong learning, while nurturing students and staff as reflective practitioners and contributors to knowledge and practice in the field.
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