General
Makerere University commemorates International Day of Persons with Disabilities: Emphasizes Disability-Inclusive Programmes
In the first week of December 2025, Makerere University in solidarity, with the rest of the world, celebrated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
The colourful event held in the University Main Hall on 1st December 2025 brought onboard Ministers and government officials, Makerere University Council and Management, National Union for Persons with Disabilities (NUDIPU), representatives of persons with disabilities at different levels, members of parliament, disability rights advocates, private sector partners, civil society actors, university staff, student leaders, and the wider community of persons with disabilities.
The celebrations graced by the Minister of State for Disability Affairs, Hon. Hellen Grace Asamo and the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-Prof. Sarah Ssali was attended by key stakeholders including Hon. Safia Nalule Juuko-Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission, Prof. Frank Mwiine-Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), the Dean of Students-Dr. Winfred Kabumbuli, Guild President-Hon. Ssentamu Churchill James, Guild Minister for Persons with Disabilities-Hon. Donita Akakunda, and among other personalities.
The commemoration featured a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Diana Ateenyi Ahumuza, offering a blend of academic, experiential, and advocacy-based perspectives on disability inclusion. The panel consisted of Dr. Naboth Rwakazwaire, founder of Hope for People with Disabilities; Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Principal of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES); Lord Councillor Peace Sserunkuma; and Ms. Catherine Nakibuuka, a second-year law student. Their conversation explored practical solutions, policy gaps, personal experiences, and the role of institutions such as Makerere University in shaping a more inclusive society.
Reflecting on the times and in line with the theme, Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress, the different speakers, persons with disabilities, and participants in general, lauded Makerere University for positive steps being undertaken with respect to inclusion of persons with disabilities. The participants commended the University for inclusive teaching, library services that are sensitive and inclusive, acquisition of a university bus for students with disabilities, sports activities for persons with disabilities, and establishment of the Makerere University Disability Support Unit. The institution has been called upon to remodel the old buildings so that people with disabilities are able to access the required spaces.
Highlighting strides in Disability Inclusion at Makerere
Welcoming the guests, Prof. Sarah Ssali, the Acting Vice Chancellor, celebrated Makerere University’s commitment to recognizing the resilience, contributions, and potential of persons with disabilities. She emphasized that building truly inclusive societies requires a dual approach: empowering marginalized individuals to realize their potential and creating institutions that are receptive and accommodating of diverse needs. Prof. Ssali underscored that disability inclusion is not an act of charity but a matter of human rights, social justice, and a collective responsibility shared by the entire university community.
Prof. Ssali highlighted Makerere University’s strong commitment to inclusivity, noting the Disability Support Centre’s support, campus accessibility improvements, flexible teaching approaches, and digital inclusion efforts. She also recognized investments in sign language interpretation and staff training to better support students with disabilities.
Prof. Ssali called upon stakeholders to make inclusion a lived reality—one that celebrates diversity and recognizes disability as an integral part of the human experience. She explained that genuine inclusion is built on partnership, shared responsibility, and intentional accommodations, noting that these principles underpin the university’s safeguarding policy inspired by the Ubuntu philosophy. She observed that inclusion goes beyond creating comfort. “It requires those without disabilities to actively adjust, accommodate, and treat everyone as equal participants in the university community,” she said.
Dr. Winifred Namuwonge Kabumbuli, Dean of Students at Makerere University, reaffirmed the university’s long-standing commitment to implementing inclusive policies and practices. She emphasized that Makerere values diversity and creativity, fosters mutual support, and provides an inclusive academic and social environment that enables all members to grow, thrive, and contribute as changemakers.
The Dean of Students highlighted Makerere University’s provision of essential assistive devices such as wheelchairs, Braille materials, and white canes to support full integration of students into academic and social life. She noted the university’s commitment to equitable academic participation through measures such as extra exam time, access to readers, and provision of carers who receive accommodation, feeding, and remuneration.
“Let us unite in promoting disability awareness, understanding, and inclusion. Together, we can build a more inclusive and supportive community. One of Makerere University’s core aims is to ensure that everyone at this esteemed institution has the opportunity to participate in every aspect of life to the best of their abilities and dreams as we build for the future,” she said.
Minister appeals for true inclusion through shared spaces and equal access
The Guest of Honour, Hon. Hellen Grace Asamo, Minister of State for Disability Affairs, stated that disability is shaped more by societal attitudes than by personal limitations. She called for true inclusion through shared spaces, equal access, and collective participation. She urged parents to take equal responsibility for their children with disabilities and reminded the public that anyone can experience disability, making proactive inclusion a collective responsibility.
“Disability is an idea shaped by society, and the attitudes often start at home. When a child is born with a disability, many see it as a burden. And while women often bear the brunt, fathers must also support their children. Remember: anyone can become disabled at any point—through accident, illness, or age. So planning for inclusion is not optional; it is necessary,” Hon. Asamo said.
She added that breaking barriers is essential, as persons with disabilities continue to excel across various fields. According to her, inclusive progress depends on creating opportunities rather than imposing limitations, and on recognizing that persons with disabilities are not homogeneous, but a diverse group with unique abilities, needs, and potential.
Hon. Asamo urged academic leaders to leverage their influence beyond the Makerere University main campus, to promote inclusive communities, calling for accessible education pathways, employability-focused training, and stronger advocacy against stigma. She emphasized that leadership is defined by capability, not physical condition, and noted the importance of mentorship, counselling, and job preparation for graduates with disabilities.
The Minister highlighted the everyday challenges faced by persons with disabilities, stressing that both public and private sectors must take action. She praised emerging inclusion in beauty, fashion, and entertainment, noting pageants and showcases as affirmations that talent and dignity transcend disability. She encouraged persons with disabilities to always claim their space and be visible.
“To people living with disabilities: nobody will hand over to you, your space—you must claim it. Be visible and be heard. Inclusion is a right, not a debate. Persons with disabilities contribute to society and the economy just like anyone else,” she said.
Keynote Speaker advocates for an enabling environment for disability-inclusion
Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Safia Nalule Juuko, Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission and former National Woman MP representing Persons with Disabilities in the 10th Parliament, affirmed that disability is not a single condition, but a diverse experience shaped by the interaction between health conditions and environmental barriers.
Hon. Safia Nalule was emphatic that families, teachers, and communities must create enabling environments, and praised the role of supportive parents and educators in her own life while calling attention to the many children who lack similar support.
“Families must accept their children, support them, understand their needs, and avoid treating disability as a curse or omen. Children with disabilities are entitled to healthcare, nutrition, education, and decision-making space. Sadly, many do not receive these rights,” Hon. Safia Nalule said.
She recommended that disability inclusion requires practical, measurable action: education and awareness led by persons with disabilities, meaningful consultation, and active participation in planning, budgeting, and implementation. She stressed that institutions must budget for both physical and financial access since the cost of exclusion far outweighs that of inclusion.
Inclusivity must span humanities and science disciplines
Prof. Frank Mwiine, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Finance & Administration) and Principal of the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources & Bio-Security, asserted that in addition to the humanities and social sciences, inclusivity must span all disciplines, including STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). He articulated that inclusion is a continuous responsibility, not a one-off event or favour. “It is a responsibility that Makerere University must consistently and intentionally uphold, and we are committed to doing exactly that,” he affirmed.
Mak Council lauded for promoting disability-inclusion
Mr. Amon Muteganda, representative of administrative staff with disabilities on the Makerere University Council, reaffirmed that the university is indeed an inclusive institution. He noted that disability-related concerns consistently receive respect and thoughtful consideration during council deliberations, with members listening attentively and responding constructively. He praised management for its timely action on the issues raised, highlighting the new transport initiative as a key example.
“Many people have spoken about inclusivity at the management level, and we have seen it in action. I want to sincerely thank the university management for their responsiveness. Whenever we raise concerns about disability-related issues, they are addressed promptly. One notable example is our transport initiative,” Mr. Muteganda said.
Student leader asserts disability is not inability
The Guild Minister for Persons with Disabilities, Hon. Donita Akankunda reflected on her experiences as a student with low vision and representative of visually impaired learners. She acknowledged improvements in accessible infrastructure, such as buildings and transport. She applauded the determination of fellow students with disabilities to create awareness, challenge stereotypes, and demonstrate that disability is not inability.
“My fellow students and persons with disabilities, I thank you for your resilience and dedication to raising awareness. Despite the many challenges we face, you have stepped forward, embraced leadership roles, and engaged in meaningful activities, demonstrating that disability is not inability. Together, we will continue to prove this every day,” she said.
Student with Disability shares his experience on adaptation
Sharing his personal journey as a student with a disability, Mr. Safiri Mungofeni, a first-year Bachelor of Architecture student at Makerere University, reflected on his initial concerns about managing practical work, navigating equipment, and moving around campus. “Over time, with the support of accessible resources and encouragement from staff, I gradually adapted,” he said. He added that witnessing fellow students with disabilities confidently navigating campus life inspired him to believe in his own potential and persevere.
Drawing inspiration from global examples, such as Chris Downey, a visually impaired architect, Safiri declared that with proper support, encouragement, and mindset, students with disabilities can excel in fields where society least expects them.
Parents called upon to love and support children living with disabilities
Illuminating both the challenges and transformative possibilities of parenting children with disabilities in Uganda, Mr. and Mrs. Kizito Bbosa, parents of Hon. Catherine Nakibuuka, a second-year law student and Speaker of the Makerere University Students with Disabilities Association shared their journey that began when their daughter was born with visual impairment. In their quest for solutions, they initially invested all their resources in medical interventions, holding onto hope that she might one day regain her sight. When these options were exhausted, they redirected their focus entirely to education, embracing it as the next frontier of opportunity and empowerment for their daughter.
“When our daughter was born in 2003 with a visual impairment, I invested every resource I had, believing she might regain her sight, until I realized that even money has its limits. We then shifted our focus to her education. Truly, the most challenging experience I have ever faced has been trying to educate her,” Mr. Bbosa recounted.
Recognizing that Catherine and other visually impaired children deserved more than sympathy, the Bbosas transformed their personal struggle into a broader mission for change. This led to the founding of the Centre for Visually Impaired Children (CEVIC) and later CEVIC School for the Blind, institutions created not out of charity but from a belief in the potential of children with visual impairments, providing them with opportunities to learn, belong, and thrive.
The Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe has today, Friday, 26th June 2026 handed over the CCE (Complex) Hall of Residence Site to National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) Managing Director and CEO, Lieutenant General James Mugira for renovation and overhaul works. The UGX 12billion Government of Uganda-funded works, expected to be completed within a year, are the fourth project to be undertaken by NEC. They were preceded by; construction of the University Perimeter Wall, Renovation of Lumumba Hall, and Renovation of Mary Stuart Hall.
NEC’s Record Lauded
Prof. Nawangwe in his remarks at the handover ceremony lauded these projects. “The quality of work done by NEC makes us proud because we can finally say that we have Ugandans who can do the things, which we previously depended on foreigners to do.” He therefore thanked the Government of Uganda for fully funding the projects and the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Museveni, whose visit set the renovation projects in motion.
The Vice Chancellor added that as the Alma mater for most members of both the Contractor and Project Management Teams, this was a moment of great pride as their expertise and skills have saved the country billions of taxpayers’ money. “Thank you for being patriotic”, he commended.
Prof. Nawangwe concluded by noting that CCE Hall, by virtue of its location, provides a first impression of Makerere University as a whole. He therefore urged the contractor to ensure that upon renovation, CCE Hall would create a memorable and lasting first impression, exceeding even that of the renovated Mary Stuart Hall.
A Project Fueled by Nostalgia
Speaking of impressions, Lt. Gen. Mugira, with nostalgia recalled that close to 42 years ago, he not only attended his first lectures in Hall 1 of the CCE Complex but also, on a more personal note added, “my wife was a resident, and so I have every motivation to put in a lot of effort and make sure that I deliver more than was done with Mary Stuart and Lumumba.”
He therefore extended heartfelt appreciation to his Alma mater Makerere University for the trust and confidence bestowed in NEC, which underscored their ability to deliver. “Trust is earned through performance, through integrity and consistency, and your decision to engage us motivates us to work even harder to exceed your expectations.”
In his remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) Prof. Henry Alinaitwe reechoed the need to ensure that the project is executed with adherence to the cost, quality, specifications and safety related issues as earlier shared by the Acting (Ag.) Chief Engineer of Estates and Works, Eng. Ezra Sekadde.
“NEC has already demonstrated this (with previous projects), and that is why we have all the confidence that you can deliver this project within 12 months” remarked Prof. Alinaitwe. He equally lauded the Project Management Team (PMT) led by Arch. Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere whose supervision ensures timely project completion.
Relatedly, Arch. Dr. Semwogerere was on 25th June 2026, the eve of the handover, promoted to the rank of Associate Professor, a milestone Prof. Alinaitwe attributed to his track record as Head of PMT. He therefore, on a light note, urged him to keep up the good work as this could equally contribute to his promotion to the rank of full Professor.
Also present at the handover ceremony was the Principal, College of Education and External Studies (CEES) Prof. Anthony Mugagga, whose unit will be greatly affected by the renovations. He nevertheless welcomed and reiterated his full support for the project, noting that just as renovation of Lumumba and Mary Stuart Halls had resulted in many alumni revisiting, the CCE Complex would upon renovation attract former residents and teaching professionals to give back or forge new partnerships.
Student Welfare at the Forefront
On her part, the Dean of Students Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli lauded the renovations of Halls of Residence as a clear demonstration of Government’s dedication to the improvement of student welfare, and creating an environment conducive for nurturing responsible citizens who can contribute to national development. She pledged her Office’s and the Student Leadership’s readiness to ensure that the renovated facilities used responsibly for the benefit of future generations.
As a resident of the recently renovated Mary Stuart Hall, 92nd Guild President H.E. Kadondi Gracious could not help but appreciate how impactful the renovation of CCE Hall would be to student welfare. “The female students will be very excited (to occupy CCE Hall) but the male students will be left complaining – so we shall be expecting more renovations, not just for the female but also the male students,” she amiably concluded.
General
Makerere University Leads EU-Funded MAGNETISE Project to Strengthen Gender Equality in Higher Education Across Sub-Saharan Africa
A consortium of African and European universities has intensified efforts to mainstream gender equality in higher education through the MAGNETISE project, with Makerere University taking a leading role in hosting a high-level workshop that brought together policymakers, researchers, and gender experts to reflect on institutional progress, persistent gaps, and future strategies.
The initiative, focused on Mainstreaming Gender in Higher Education Institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa (MAGNETISE), is supported by the European Union and implemented through a multi-country partnership involving institutions in Uganda, South Africa, and Europe. It aims to move beyond policy formulation to practical implementation, monitoring, and institutional accountability in gender equality.
At the heart of the discussions was a shared concern: while universities across the region have developed gender policies over the past decades, translating these frameworks into measurable, lived institutional change remains uneven.
A Consortium Approach to Gender Mainstreaming in Academia
Opening the workshop, held at Makerere University recently, the project lead, Professor James Acai Okwee who is also deputy Principal CoVAB, described MAGNETISE as a collaborative effort designed to strengthen institutional capacity for gender equality planning across higher education systems in Sub-Saharan Africa.
He explained that the consortium includes Ugandan partners such as Makerere University and Muni University, alongside South African institutions including University of KwaZulu-Natal, Rhodes University, and Nelson Mandela University. European partners include Katholieke Hoge school VIVES Zuid (VIVES) and KMOP Policy Centre from Belgium, as well as Research Innovation and Development Lab (ReadLab) and University of Peloponnese. The consortium also includes additional European academic collaboration through the University of Applied Sciences and related policy and research networks.
According to Acai, the core objective is not simply to produce policies, but to ensure universities develop functional gender equality plans supported by implementation tools, monitoring frameworks, and institutional accountability systems.
“We have had policies since the early 2000s, but the real question is: where is the implementation plan, and how do we track progress?” he noted. “If a policy says 40 percent representation for women in leadership, we must be able to measure whether that is being achieved.”
He emphasized that MAGNETISE would support training, capacity-building exchanges with European institutions, student engagement programmes, and the development of a digital knowledge hub for gender equality.
Makerere University’s Institutional Position on Gender Equality
Representing university leadership, Dr. Suzan Mbabazi of Makerere University’s Gender Mainstreaming Directorate reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to advancing gender equality across its academic, research, and community engagement mandate. She highlighted significant progress made over more than two decades, citing policies such as the Gender Equality Policy and the Regulations Against Sexual Harassment, alongside governance frameworks that have institutionalized gender equity. Makerere has also established key structures, including the Institute of Gender and Development Studies and the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, to coordinate initiatives across faculties. Yet, Dr. Mbabazi cautioned that structural achievements do not erase systemic challenges. “Despite progress globally and locally, we must acknowledge persistent gaps, biases, and inequalities within higher education institutions,” she said, stressing the need to bridge policy and practice. She urged participants to prioritize awareness creation, institutional analysis of existing gaps, and deliberate action to dismantle structural barriers. Reaffirming management’s support, she called for continued collaboration among institutions and stakeholders to sustain momentum in gender mainstreaming.
Preliminary Survey Findings Reveal Mixed Progress
Presenting the initial findings of a university-wide survey, Dr. Peace Musiimenta of the School of Women and Gender Studies at Makerere University revealed that responses from 82 participants across various units highlight both progress and persistent challenges in advancing gender equality. While many acknowledged strides in gender mainstreaming, structural and cultural barriers remain entrenched. The study found that although gender policies exist, their implementation is often inconsistent, and initiatives risk being treated as isolated projects rather than integrated institutional practices. Dr. Musiimenta noted that some staff perceive gender programs as overly focused on women, fueling resistance and ideological tensions within academic spaces. She emphasized that the challenge is no longer the absence of policy but the need to ensure visibility, ownership, and effective application of existing frameworks to embed gender equality across the institution.
Gender Audit Highlights Structural Gaps and Progress
Expanding on the institutional audit, Dr. Florence Ebila outlined the methodology and preliminary findings of the gender audit conducted between May and June 2026.She explained that the audit examined institutional policies, governance systems, practices, organizational culture, and perceptions of gender equality.
The study drew data from multiple administrative units including human resources, academic registrars, estates and works departments, and student leadership structures. Ebila reported that Makerere University has made significant institutional progress, including the establishment of gender-focused units and integration of gender considerations into teaching, research, and governance. However, she identified persistent disparities in representation, particularly in science-related disciplines where male staff and students remain dominant.
She also highlighted infrastructural gaps, noting that while newer buildings are increasingly accessible, several older facilities lack adequate support for persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.
Another concern raised was limited gender-responsive budgeting, with insufficient allocation of resources to sustain gender mainstreaming activities across all units. “The challenge is not just policy design, but operationalization at all levels of the institution,” she said.
Gender, Identity, and Institutional Culture: A Critical Reflection
A keynote reflection by Dr Josephine Ahikire introduced a deeper theoretical lens to the discussion, situating gender mainstreaming within broader questions of institutional power, identity, and cultural norms.
Ahikire emphasized that gender mainstreaming is not a technical exercise but a structural transformation process that challenges entrenched systems of privilege.
She used the example of Makerere University’s centenary monument, where a male graduate is prominently positioned in front view while a female graduate is placed at the rear, to illustrate how symbolic representations can reflect deeper institutional biases.
“What appears natural often hides embedded inequality,” she argued. “Even symbolic structures matter because they reflect how institutions imagine gender.”
Ahikire acknowledged Makerere University’s progress in policy development and institutional frameworks but cautioned that deeper cultural transformation is still required.
She emphasized the need to interrogate curriculum design, research systems, and informal institutional practices that may perpetuate inequality despite formal commitments to inclusion.
She further argued that gender discourse must retain its political dimension, noting that terms such as feminism should not be avoided but engaged critically in order to address structural inequality.
“Gender equality work is not about comfort,” she said. “It is about questioning established norms and rethinking how power is distributed.”
Institutional Achievements and Remaining Challenges
Across presentations, several common themes emerged.
Participants acknowledged that Makerere University has developed one of the most advanced gender mainstreaming frameworks in the region, including:
- A dedicated gender equality policy framework
- Sexual harassment regulations and safeguarding policies
- Institutional gender mainstreaming structures
- Student engagement programmes and gender clubs
- Scholarships supporting women in science and disadvantaged backgrounds
- Increasing integration of gender into teaching and research
However, speakers consistently highlighted persistent challenges, including:
- Limited implementation of gender policies at departmental level
- Uneven representation of women in senior academic ranks
- Infrastructure gaps affecting accessibility and inclusion
- Weak gender-responsive budgeting mechanisms
- Resistance and misunderstanding of gender equality concepts
- Fragmentation of gender work across isolated units
Towards a Comprehensive Gender Equality Plan
A key outcome of the MAGNETISE project is the development of a comprehensive institutional gender equality plan for Makerere University, supported by monitoring tools and a sustainability framework.
The plan is expected to consolidate existing policies into a coherent implementation strategy, linking institutional commitments to measurable outcomes.
It will also include a handbook for monitoring gender equality initiatives and a digital platform for knowledge sharing among students and staff.
Project leaders emphasized that sustainability will depend on institutional ownership beyond donor funding, particularly through integration into university governance systems.
A Continuing Institutional Journey
The workshop concluded with a shared recognition that gender equality in higher education remains a work in progress, requiring sustained institutional commitment, cultural transformation, and accountability mechanisms.
While Makerere University has made notable progress over the past decades, speakers agreed that the next phase of gender mainstreaming must focus on implementation, visibility, and structural change.
As the MAGNETISE project continues across partner institutions in Africa and Europe, it positions itself not only as a research initiative, but as a long-term institutional reform effort aimed at reshaping how universities understand and operationalize gender equality in higher education.
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