Veterinary & Biosecurity
The New Cohort at CoVAB Urged to Prioritize Academic Progress and Innovation as they got oriented into the Covabian Family
The College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB) at Makerere University held an orientation to welcome its incoming undergraduate students. The event, held in the Media Room, Thursday, 7th August 2025, also served as a platform to promote leadership, innovation, and academic excellence.
The Principal of the college, Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, stressed to the new undergraduate students the importance of having a clear life plan and pursuing it with unwavering dedication. He noted that whether their journey lasts three or five years, success depends on their full commitment. Prof. Mwiine urged students to work together, support each other, and stay focused on both their academic and personal goals. “I stand before you not just as your Principal, but as your brother and your friend,” he said. “I’m here to walk this journey with you, and I pray that you understand the value of embracing your purpose.”
Prof. Mwiine emphasized that university life demands discipline, focus, and responsibility. He urged students to familiarize themselves with key institutional policies, citing the example of the Safeguarding Policy and the Fees Policy, both available on the university website. “We were once young like you,” he said, “and we hope that you remain with us until you successfully graduate.” Acknowledging their new independence, Prof. Mwiine reminded students that while they may be out of sight of their parents and guardians, the university now takes on the parental role. “We take responsibility for disciplined students,” he noted, encouraging them to live responsibly and support one another as brothers and sisters within the CoVAB family.
He stressed the importance of academic commitment, particularly for those enrolled in five-year programs, urging them to complete their studies within the designated timeframe. “As a parent, I feel aggrieved when students stay longer than expected,” he said. Prof. Mwiine described the university as a space for intellectual growth, self-expression, and discovery—especially in the sciences, where students are expected to grasp core principles, challenge ideas, and enjoy the pursuit of knowledge. He also acknowledged the financial sacrifices made by privately sponsored students and cautioned scholarship recipients to safeguard their opportunities. He warned against excessive use of social media, encouraging students to use digital platforms purposefully for learning, communication, and personal development.
In his welcome remarks, the Deputy Principal, Assoc. Prof. James Acai Okwee, congratulated the incoming undergraduate cohort on their admission to Makerere University, describing it as a pivotal transition from student to professionalism. He noted that the students were stepping into esteemed fields such as laboratory science, animal production and management, and veterinary medicine, which careers play a vital role in society. “This stage of your life will shape the kind of professional and person you become,” he said.
Prof. Acai highlighted CoVAB’s proud legacy, emphasizing that many accomplished individuals have passed through its programs, which are recognized and respected globally. “At CoVAB, we cultivate diverse careers, create opportunities, and produce professionals who make a lasting impact,” he affirmed. While acknowledging the widespread concern about unemployment, he reassured students that CoVAB graduates are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to Uganda’s development. “You won’t find our products aimlessly walking the streets,” he said. “They are trained to lead, innovate, and serve.”
He further explained that the Office of the Deputy Principal is responsible for quality assurance and the coordination of effective teaching and learning, including the development of the global timetable for all academic programs. Prof. Acai concluded by encouraging students to remain focused on their academic mission, to be self-driven, and to use their freedom wisely. “Let your commitment to the purpose that brought you here guide your choices,” he advised.
The Dean School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources (SVAR), Prof. Robert Tweyongyere noted that all of the students were admitted on merit and shared that working hard and discipline were the two major principles of success. ‘Now you have entered into another journey, you need to be re-energized for the next period. He noted that some of the reasons why students do not complete on time focused on forgetting the cardinal reason as to why they were at university. All of us here went through this stage successfully, and you can do it. Citing an example of a former student who failed to complete because of football, he asked them to make the right decisions. Do not lie back and struggle with challenges, but come up and approach the respective offices to seek counsel and advice whenever need arises
Dr. Claire M. Mugasa, Dean of the School of Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory Sciences (SBLS), warmly welcomed the new students with a message that resonated deeply with purpose and possibility. She likened their arrival at the university to receiving a blank slate or an open canvas waiting to be filled.
“Whatever you write on this slate is what you will go out with,” she emphasized, urging Freshers to take ownership of their academic journey.
She reminded them that while the slate is theirs, they are not alone. The faculty and staff are here to guide, support, and equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Responsibility, she noted, must extend beyond academics into communication, conduct, and personal growth.
The College Registrar, Mr. Byarugaba Richard, welcomed the new students with a message underscoring the importance of timely registration and active engagement with his office. He noted that the registration process is the first step in becoming a bonafide student and emphasized that privately sponsored students would receive their original admission letters upon completing registration. Mr. Byarugaba outlined the college’s four-level assessment structure, the continuous assessment, practical exams, oral exams, and the final university examination, all of which contribute to the final mark. He also drew attention to the institution’s strict policy on examination malpractice, informing students about the Exam Irregularities Committee, which handles cases of misconduct. He urged students to uphold academic integrity and take responsibility for their learning.
The College Librarian, Ms. Lydia Namugera Senjovu, welcomed students and affirmed their eligibility to access library services upon presentation of a valid photo ID, including provisional admission letters. She noted that the library is open daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, offering a wide range of academic support services. These include access to electronic resources, reference services, information literacy sessions, and plagiarism detection tools to uphold academic integrity. She also emphasized the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, cautioning against its abuse in academic work. Students were encouraged to take a brief tour of the library to familiarize themselves with its facilities. As a Safeguarding Champion, Ms. Senjovu highlighted the importance of safeguarding, which involves protecting students’ rights and promoting a safe and respectful learning environment.
Senior Superintendent of Police Gubira Gerald, Chief Security Officer at Makerere University, urged students to utilise police services whenever they need assistance. He reminded them that life at Makerere can be enjoyable and free, provided they follow university regulations and abide by the laws of Uganda. He expressed concern that some students had already lost original documents, which can be difficult and stressful to replace.
SSP Gubira urged students to stay alert, highlighting the high rate of theft, scammers, and robbers, even near student hostels. He stressed the need to protect personal belongings like laptops and phones, and advised students to live within their means, avoid accepting suspicious free offers, and stay away from drugs and other illegal activities. He also recommended using the main entrance when entering campus, remaining visible, moving in groups, and always being aware of their safety.
Ms. Rosemary Nalwanga from the Counseling and Guidance Centre highlighted the importance of proper orientation to help students navigate campus life and avoid unnecessary difficulties. She advised students to be careful when choosing friends, recognizing their value while also emphasizing the importance of building healthy and supportive relationships.
She explained that orientation is not just about logistics, but about preparing for the full spectrum of experiences that come with the academic journey. Life at university, she noted, is not only about academics but also about building networks and connections. Lecturers, for instance, can serve as mentors and even open doors to future career opportunities.
Ms. Nalwanga urged students to embrace failure as part of growth. “Many talk about success, but most people fail before they succeed,” she said, encouraging students to seek help when facing setbacks. The right support, she emphasized, can make all the difference.
Her message also included a call to develop entrepreneurial skills, especially in cases where formal employment may not be immediately available. She emphasized the importance of managing fear, particularly the fear of failure, which often hinders achievement.
“We want you to thrive,” she concluded, “and successfully transition from university to the world of work.”
Ritah Ndibalekera, Chairperson of the College Guild Council, encouraged new students to immerse themselves in campus life by joining clubs and associations. She emphasized that these groups play a crucial role in building social networks and fostering both academic and personal development. Among the initiatives she highlighted were the AniScholar Career Hub, which supports students in shaping their academic and professional paths; the Emerging Leaders Program, aimed at nurturing leadership potential; and the Animal Health and Welfare Club, which promotes advocacy and awareness in animal care. She urged students to take full advantage of these opportunities to enrich their university experience and prepare for future success.
Veterinary & Biosecurity
Global Scholar Prof. John B. Kaneene Pushes for Structural Change in Ugandan Universities to Elevate Research and Innovation
Renowned academic Prof. John B. Kaneene has called for sweeping structural reforms across Ugandan universities, including Makerere University, to enhance their global competitiveness and research output. Speaking at a forum on science and innovation, held on August 26th at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Prof. Kaneene emphasized the urgent need for improved facilities to support active research participation.
He urged institutions to revamp their reward systems, noting that scholars who achieve significant milestones should be recognized in line with their contributions. “Success must be incentivized,” he said, adding that such recognition would motivate researchers and elevate academic standards.
The guest lecture was held under the theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation.” The session explored the transformative role of universities in enhancing human wellbeing, societal development, and economic growth. It offered critical insights into institutional frameworks such as tenure and promotion, innovation and research ecosystems, and mentoring and incentive structures—drawing valuable lessons from Michigan State University to inform Uganda’s evolving science, technology, and innovation landscape.
At the discourse attended by scientists, prodigy Scientists, administrators, and regulators of Scientists, Prof. Kaneene also criticized the current promotion framework, calling for stricter, merit-based criteria free from political interference. He proposed a more rigorous system for academic progression, from Assistant Lecturer to Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, and ultimately Professor. “The title of Professor should be earned through demonstrable excellence in both research and teaching,” he stated, arguing that current standards fall short.
In addition to structural reforms, Prof. Kaneene highlighted the need to improve the quality and quantity of academic publications. He advocated for a shift from basic science to industrial and translational research, where universities produce innovations that directly benefit public health and economic development. “We must bridge the gap between research and real-world solutions,” he said.
Prof. Kaneene concluded by urging the Ugandan government to recognize universities as engines of national progress. He called for increased funding, better infrastructure, and targeted support for top scientists. “With the right investment, our universities can drive economic growth and improve the health of our communities,” he affirmed.
Speaking at the opening of the event, Ms. Brenda Nakazibwe, Bureau Chief, Pathogen Economy at the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Secretariat under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing Uganda’s pathogen economy and strengthening its scientific research ecosystem. She highlighted the Secretariat’s role in supporting research development and fostering ecosystem establishment as Uganda moves toward sustainable growth. She emphasized that the bureau is actively working to position science and innovation as key drivers of economic transformation.
Ms. Nakazibwe commended the presentation by Prof. John B. Kaneene, a distinguished U.S.-based academic, describing his insights as highly relevant to both scientists and the general public. She acknowledged his longstanding contributions to Uganda’s scientific landscape, particularly his involvement in the foundation of the STI Open Platform (STI OP), formerly known as the Presidential Scientific Initiative on Epidemics (PRESIDE). The PRESIDE initiative was instrumental in fast-tracking research and innovation in vaccines, drugs, and therapeutics in response to emerging diseases and public health threats.
She further emphasized the importance of the issues raised during the discussion, including innovation, research incentives, academic tenure, and promotion systems. Ms. Nakazibwe described these as “tangible and actionable areas” that must be addressed across all levels of Uganda’s scientific and academic institutions.
“These are not abstract ideas and practical reforms that can strengthen our research culture and ensure our scientists are empowered to deliver solutions for national development,” she stated.
While introducing Prof. John B. Kaneene, Prof. John David Kabasa emphasized that the discourse stemmed from a longstanding consortium between universities in the United States and Africa. This partnership has been instrumental in driving major advancements in Uganda’s veterinary and biosecurity sectors. Speaking at the strategic engagement on science and innovation, Prof. Kabasa highlighted the consortium’s focus on capacity building in the integrated management of transboundary diseases and zoonoses, noting that it laid the foundation for transformative change in the country’s scientific and academic landscape.
He noted that the partnership’s strength and future-oriented vision led Makerere University to approve a development strategy and investment plan that upgraded its Faculty of Veterinary Medicine into the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity. “Biosecurity became central to our mission because we are focused on global biosecurity,” Prof. Kabasa said.
Over the past 15 years, he said, the consortium has yielded significant milestones, including the establishment of a Master’s program in Biosecurity, ongoing development of a PhD in Biosecurity, and the creation of a Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health. These efforts are now being aligned with the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation to promote Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation, key pillars of Uganda’s emerging industrial bioeconomy under the pathogen economy framework championed by His Excellency, the President of Uganda.
Prof. Kabasa, alongside Prof. John B. Kaneene and other founding scientists, announced plans to elevate the consortium’s work to a new level, with a renewed focus on global biosecurity and industrial bioeconomy. He revealed that partners mentored through the original initiative, including directors from the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), senior scientists at the ministry level, and academics from other universities, are injecting fresh energy into the collaboration.
“We are now engaging to define how universities can lead national transformation, and what strategic steps they must take to reposition themselves,” Prof. Kabasa stated. He confirmed that a series of follow-up meetings will be held to chart the path forward.
The Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health (CEBIGH) is one of the specialized units established at Makerere University, whose creation is part of a broader vision to develop a regional veterinary college through the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB). As a key research and development entity, CEBIGH is instrumental in repositioning CoVAB as a leading driver of scientific innovation, strategic research, and public service nationally and globally. Through its work, CEBIGH is emerging as a major contributor to Uganda’s growing pathogen economy.
Research
Makerere Scientists Document Climate-Smart Innovation in Sentema, Applaud Farmer’s Odor-Control Breakthrough
A team of scientists under the regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited Mr. Mugisha Jonan, an urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, whose adoption of innovative practices is redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings.
Through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, Mr. Mugisha has not only resolved the persistent issue of odor from his dairy farm, but is also unlocking more profitable outcomes by embracing climate-smart agricultural techniques. Central to his approach is the use of VTC Technology, a system designed to recover nutrients from diverse waste streams, including farm and market waste, and return them to their original sources. This transformative method was introduced to him by Dr. Herbert Mukiibi, a renowned scientist from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity at Makerere University.
Based on the demonstration on the farm, the innovative practice will help in reshaping urban agriculture by enhancing sustainable food production while simultaneously addressing critical environmental challenges such as waste management and odor control. Mr. Mugisha’s work stands as a compelling example of how local science-driven solutions can empower urban farmers and contribute to greener, more resilient cities.
Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira Kalule led a team that included Dr. Herbert Mukiibi, the innovator who collaborated directly with Mr. Mugisha to implement the nutrient recycling innovation. Also part of the team was Prof. Josephine Esaete from the College of Education and External Studies, part of the members of the bigger project research team that includes Prof. Robert Stephen Tabuti and Prof. Vincent Muwanika, both from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at Makerere University.
“Mr. Mugisha’s work exemplifies the kind of innovation we aim to capture, document and validate as solutions that are proven to work, locally driven, environmentally sound, and socially inclusive,” said Dr. Nampanzira, following a tour of the project site nestled within a densely populated urban residential area.
Dr. Nampanzira said the reason for the visit to the farmer was because through the project, scientists were looking out for farmers doing unique things that actually give them good results which are not known to the scientists. She said the purpose was to validate such practices and have them promoted.
The project, Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate-Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa (CICSA-E&SA), continues to engage with farmers who have adopted some climate-smart agricultural practices by identifying and supporting solutions that work for farmers on the ground. Through hands-on engagement and collaboration, the initiative focuses on practical innovations that address real challenges, ensuring that climate-smart agriculture is not only sustainable, but also accessible and effective for local communities.
While describing the innovation demonstrated by Mr. Mugisha, Dr. Herbert Mukiibi explained that the Nutrient Recycling Technology is designed to recover nutrients from various waste streams such as domestic, farm, hospital, schools or market waste and return them to their original source. If the nutrients came from the garden, the ultimate goal is to return them to the garden, Dr. Mukiibi noted. He said that most systems release nutrients through waste, which wastes are often mistreated because people don’t realize they are valuable resources. He said through such interventions, they were coming in to tap on these wastes and return them to the garden in a ready form that can be used by the crops for better yields without necessarily using inorganic forms of fertilizers.
Dr. Mukiibi emphasized that this technology not only promotes sustainable agriculture but also transforms public perception of waste, from a nuisance into a valuable resource thereby encouraging more responsible and productive environmental practices. He commended Mr. Mugisha, the farmer behind the initiative, for embracing the technology and personally financing its development. Thanks to Mr. Mugisha’s commitment, the project has advanced to the point where it is nearly ready to produce, package, and sell organic manure, marking a significant milestone in practical nutrient recycling.
“We want to document the various innovations that promote climate-smart agriculture while simultaneously addressing farmers’ real-world challenges,” said Prof. Asaete Josephine, who is part of the research team. “The innovation demonstrated by Mr. Mugisha not only solved his initial problem, the unpleasant smell of dung that was causing concern in the neighborhood, but also evolved into a broader solution. What began as an effort to manage odor has also addressed nutrient deficiencies. That’s where the climate-smart aspect comes in, she noted. Instead of spending resources on inorganic fertilizers, the farmer is now benefiting from nutrient recycling, which promotes faster plant growth while tackling the original issue of odor.”, she noted.
Mr. Mugisha informed the visiting team that he initially started the farm to meet his family’s nutritional needs. However, as the farm grew, he encountered significant challenges related to waste management, which led him to connect with Dr. Herbert Mukiibi, whose expertise helped guide him toward innovative solutions. He said he first adopted biogas technology yet, odor problem persisted, leading him to explored more sustainable options and eventually embraced the nutrient recycling innovation. He said transforming waste into organic manure enabled him resolve the environmental concerns but also enhanced the productivity of his vegetable gardens, and is moving towards packaging and sale of organic manure.
The CICSA-E&SA project is a multi-institutional collaboration led by Makerere University, in partnership with the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (Norway), Maseno University (Kenya), and LUANAR and DARS (Malawi). The project is funded by the Norwegian Agency for International Cooperation and Quality Enhancement in Higher Education (Diku) and aims to promote climate-resilient agricultural practices across East and Southern Africa.
The College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) at Makerere University has officially launched its pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning an initiative marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda. Designed to address pressing challenges in the livestock sector, the program will blend academic rigor with practical relevance, equipping scholars with the skills and knowledge needed to drive sustainable development, enhance food security, and shape policy across the region.
In alignment with Makerere University’s curriculum development framework, stakeholders from across the livestock industry were invited to contribute their insights to ensure the program is relevant, rigorous, and responsive to contemporary challenges. The stakeholder engagement forum that brought together academics, civil society actors, farmer representatives, donor agencies, and policymakers was convened at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) on Thursday, 14th August 2015. The objective was to solicit broad-based input into the proposed taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, fostering a collaborative approach to shaping its content and direction.
Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira Kalule, Head of the Department of Livestock and Industrial Resources, welcomed the participants and acknowledged the need for a collaborative effort that would help in the improvement of the proposed program. “This program is not just going to produce intellectually capable individuals, it will produce citizens equipped to solve the real-world challenges facing the livestock industry,” she emphasized.
Dr. Nampanzira paid special tribute to Professor Anthony Mugisha, whom she described as the “thought leader” behind the initiative. His visionary proposal for a taught PhD program ignited a college-wide collaboration, ultimately leading to the development of a curriculum tailored to the evolving needs of Uganda’s livestock sector, she said. She acknowledged the contribution by departmental staff for their unwavering commitment to the development of the program. Quoting Nelson Mandela, she underscored the transformative power of education: “Education is the most powerful weapon which we can use to change the world.” She likened the new PhD program to a finely crafted weapon, calling on participants to help sharpen it through open dialogue and shared expertise. “We are here to sharpen this weapon,” she said. “The enemy is food insecurity and poverty. Let us be bold, open, and visionary in shaping this program.”
“We must strike the right balance,” said Dr. Henry Zakumumpa who represented the Ag. Director of the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training Professor Julius Kikooma. “Doctoral research requires depth, time, and intellectual maturity, he said while giving counsel on the program which he said should emphasize more on research output”. Zakumumpa said as part of the ongoing reforms, the university was reaffirming the importance of cross-cutting mandatory courses, including Philosophy of Methods, Research Methodology, Gender Research, and Research Writing. These core units are examinable and graded, forming a critical foundation for doctoral scholarship and ensuring that PhD candidates are equipped with essential research competencies and analytical skills.
While referring the college to existing guidelines Zakumumpa advised the team to incorporate a benchmarking process that draws on successful external models, notably the taught PhD program at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), which has been commended for its structured approach and academic rigor.
Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources (SVAR), who represented the Principal of the College, Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, expressed his delight at the milestone achieved. He described the engagement as a valuable opportunity to refine the program and urged the team to strictly adhere to the provided guidelines in order to successfully navigate the approval processes at both Makerere University and the National Council for Higher Education. He congratulated the Department of Livestock and Industrial Resources (LIR) on their progress and encouraged other departments to follow suit in designing academic programs that are responsive to societal needs.
Prof. Anthony Mugisha noted that the department initially conceptualized the program idea and, with support from agencies such as RUFORUM, received valuable guidance throughout the development process. He emphasized the importance of advancing beyond technical training to cultivate thought leaders and philosophers within the sector. “With the Master of Livestock Development program, we have begun building a critical mass,” he said, “but we now need to nurture philosophers—individuals who can think deeply and strategically for the future of the sector.”
This PhD focuses on advancing sustainable, ethical, and technologically driven livestock systems. It prepares experts in Livestock production and management, climate-resilient farming, Artificial Intelligence and Digital tools and big data in agriculture as well as Animal welfare and policy leadership.
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