Business & Management
Celebrating Academic Excellence: CoBAMS Presents 975 Graduands at Mak 76th Graduation Ceremony
26th February 2026– The third day of Makerere University’s 76th Graduation Ceremony, held on 26th February 2026, underscored the University’s central role in shaping economic thought, business leadership, and public policy in Uganda and beyond. On this day, the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) together with Makerere University Business School (MUBS) presented their graduands for the conferment of degrees and award of diplomas.
CoBAMS Graduation Statistics
Across the University, a total of 9,295 graduands will be presented during the 76th graduation ceremony (24th to 27th February 2026). The College of Business and Management Sciences presented 975 graduands, comprising 14 Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, 334 Master’s degrees, 2 Postgraduate Diplomas, and 625 Bachelor’s degrees. This robust academic profile reflects the College’s sustained investment in advanced research, graduate training, and industry-relevant programmes designed to equip graduates with analytical competence, ethical grounding, and leadership capacity required to contribute meaningfully to economic transformation, institutional development, and enterprise growth at national, regional, and global levels.
Prof. Nawangwe emphasized that CoBAMS remains a key pillar in advancing the University’s research agenda. Through strategic partnerships with government ministries, the business community, and the private sector, the College has produced over 60 high-quality research outputs under the CoBAMS Working Paper Series, many of which have been published in internationally recognized peer-reviewed journals. These outputs he said are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Uganda’s 10-fold National Economic Growth Strategy, and the University’s Strategic Plan, reinforcing CoBAMS’ role in driving evidence-based development.
The Vice Chancellor commended the College for its five dynamic research centres—Entrepreneurship and Innovation; Statistics and Demography; Public Investment Management; the Environment for Development Initiative; and the Centre of Excellence for Africa Climate-Sensitive Macroeconomic Modelling—which collectively form the backbone of the College’s research enterprise. Through these centres, he noted CoBAMS continues to advance high-level scholarship, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and deepen policy engagement, firmly positioning itself at the forefront of national and regional economic discourse.
In his message to the graduands, Prof. Nawangwe tasked them to become job creators, who are ready to turn challenges into opportunities. He encouraged them to remain proud ambassadors of Makerere University, upholding integrity and excellence, and to utilize their knowledge to transform communities and nations.
“You are all graduating with disciplines that are needed by society. We have equipped you with the knowledge and skills that will make you employable or create your own businesses and employ others. Do not despair. If you cannot find employment, reflect on the immense opportunities around you and raise to the occasion as an entrepreneur,” Prof. Nawangwe stated.
Addressing the congregation, the Guest of Honour, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports commended Makerere University for its pivotal role in transforming lives and shaping Uganda’s future. She congratulated the graduands upon reaching a significant academic milestone and reflected on the broader purpose of higher education in developing both knowledge and character.
She highlighted the success of the Emerging Leaders Programme, launched at Makerere University as a deliberate initiative to cultivate a generation of leaders grounded in values, integrity, and service. Founded on the conviction that higher education must shape both mind and character, the programme equips young people to navigate real-world challenges. She noted that 20 graduates from the inaugural cohort of the Emerging Leaders Programme were being celebrated at the 76th graduation.
“We recognised that our young people face real challenges such as moral decay, violence, addiction, exploitation and sometimes a loss of purpose and direction. The Emerging Leaders Programme was a deliberate commitment to raise a generation of leaders grounded in values, integrity and service to others. Today, 20 graduates represent the early visible fruit of that vision. They have deliberately chosen to build their lives on a foundation of strong moral values and servant leadership,” the Minister said.
The Minister urged graduands to view their achievements not as an end, but as a commissioning. She called upon them to lead with courage, humility, and responsibility, emphasizing that the world needs graduates who embody not just skills and knowledge, but character, integrity, and service. She reminded graduates that as they step into society, they carry the promise of a new Uganda, one where talent, ambition, and knowledge are matched by integrity, purpose, and service,” she exhorted, celebrating the role of higher education in nurturing both excellence and character.
Delivering the commencement address, Dr. Patricia Ojangole, Managing Director of Uganda Development Bank and a proud Makerere University alumnus, lauded the University for equipping graduates with a strong intellectual foundation and the confidence to navigate the complexities of the modern world. She recognized the sacrifices of parents, guardians, and relatives, noting that behind every graduand lies a story of perseverance, encouragement, and unwavering support.
Dr. Ojangole urged the graduands to look beyond traditional employment, highlighting the vast opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation in today’s digitally connected and globally integrated Uganda. She reminded them that the skills, exposure, and knowledge they possess, position them to create solutions, build enterprises, and drive economic and social transformation.
She emphasized lifelong learning, adaptability, and the cultivation of emotional intelligence and leadership as essential tools for sustained success, noting that the most effective leaders inspire and empower others. Above all, she urged the graduates to guard their integrity, develop strong networks, and remain resilient in the face of setbacks, framing every challenge as an opportunity to strengthen character.
“Learning does not end with this degree. The world of work is constantly evolving—technology advances, markets shift, and customer needs change. Those who stop learning quickly fall behind. Graduates must develop skills in artificial intelligence, data literacy, analytical thinking, forecasting, and strategic planning, while also cultivating emotional intelligence and leadership. These abilities are essential in the 21st-century workplace, where people follow leaders who inspire. Lifelong learning, adaptability, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace change are no longer optional—they are the new currency of corporate and business success,” she submitted.
The Makerere University Chancellor, Dr. Crispus Kiyonga urged graduates to view their time at Makerere not only as an academic journey, but as an opportunity to engage with the world around them. He encouraged them to identify opportunities within their communities and the nation at large, highlighting that while some may secure government or private sector jobs, others will need to create their own paths through entrepreneurship.
“Beyond pursuing your courses, seize the opportunities at the university to broaden your knowledge of the world, your country, and the communities in which you live. Be attentive to the opportunities around you—those you can leverage to engage in meaningful and viable activities that bring prosperity,” the Chancellor advised.
A key highlight of the day was the conferment of the Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa), of Makerere University upon CPA Japheth Buleetwa Katto, recognizing him as an Honorary Scholar of Makerere University. A distinguished professional with remarkable achievements, CPA Katto has made significant contributions to Uganda, the East African region, and beyond, particularly in advancing the accountancy discipline and strengthening the capital markets industry. His work has played a transformative role in Uganda’s social and economic development while also influencing the accountancy profession on a global scale.
Accepting the Honorary Doctorate Doctorate, CPA Japheth Buleetwa Katto expressed deep gratitude to Makerere University and those who supported his journey. Reflecting on fifty years in corporate governance and finance, he emphasized a key lesson: integrity, diligence, and ethical leadership are always noticed, and the rewards of sowing excellence will inevitably follow, even if it takes decades.
“This recognition comes as a surprise and brings with it an important lesson, I wish to share with everyone here: people are always watching. They notice when you choose integrity over shortcuts, when you champion good governance even when it is unpopular. They see not only the good, but also the bad and the ugly. We must never forget the eternal law of the harvest: we reap what we sow. If you sow excellence, diligence, and ethics, the harvest—though it may take decades—will always find you,” CPA Katto said.
Addressing the graduands, CPA Japheth Buleetwa Katto urged them to embrace the unexpected, recognize that integrity is their greatest strength, and harness the power of networking. He reflected on his own journey, crediting teachers, mentors, colleagues, and family for their support, and encouraged the new graduates to always strive to make a positive impact in everything they do.
“I have enjoyed working with educated and brilliant people,” remarked Mr. Peter Mubiru at the handover of the office of the College Bursar held on 31st August 2026 at the College of Business and Management Sciences.
Reflecting on his career journey at Makerere University, which commenced in 1998, Mr. Mubiru who has served with dedication and distinction said: “Professionalism is key in management success.”
Mr. Mubiru reached the mandatory retirement age on 25th August 2026, marking the end of a career spanning nearly three decades in Makerere University’s audit and financial management functions. In his 28 years of service, which he described as a rich and rewarding experience, Mr. Mubiru held the following positions: Assistant Internal Auditor, Head of Revenue and Expenditure Office, Principal Accountant, and College Bursar.
Addressing the College leadership and staff as well as University officials from the Directorate of Internal Audit, and the Directorate of Finance who convened to witness the colourful handover ceremony to Mr. George Lusiba, Mr. Mubiru appreciated the different offices at the University for their cooperation throughout his years of service.
In a very special way, he was delighted to note that Mr. George Lusiba who was taking over the mantle as the new College Bursar has worked with him closely in the execution of several tasks and activities within the Directorate of Finance. “To Mr. Lusiba, I wish you the best of luck in the position of the College Bursar,” said Mr. Mubiru.
From Internal Audit to Financial Management
Mr. Mubiru joined the University service in 1998 as Assistant Internal Auditor, a position that he held for one year. During this period, Mr. Mubiru prepared a report examining the collection and management of revenue at Makerere University.
According to Mr. Mubiru, the recommendations in the report impressed the University Management and Council. Consequently, he was transferred from Internal Audit to the Finance Department, where he served as Head of Revenue and Expenditure, presenting to him an opportunity to contribute directly to implementing some of the recommendations. He was later promoted to Principal Accountant, which positioned him to serve the College of Business and Management Sciences, and a key specialist in financial management and implementation within the University and beyond.
At the College level, Mr. Mubiru has been responsible of overseeing the financial functions within the college, management of the college annual budgeting processes, preparing financial reports at the university and college level, and ensuring compliance with financial guidelines of the university.
He acknowledged the tremendous support received from the following members of staff whom he has been supervising at the College level: Mr. Charles Ssuna, Ms. Florence Amoding, and Ms. Mary Taaka.
Recognition of impactful service
The Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Prof. Edward Bbaale, applauded Mr. Peter Mubiru, for his dedicated service and contribution to the College over the years.
He welcomed the incoming College Bursar, Mr. George Lusiba, and expressed the readiness of the College leadership and staff to work with him to ensure an efficient and effective financial management function. “Through his service, Mr. Lusiba will contribute to the continued growth and effective administration of the College,” said the Principal.
A Legacy of Leadership and Mentorship
The Dean, School of Business, Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng praised Mr. Peter Mubiru for the outstanding service, leadership, and mentorship.
“Mr. Mubiru is a straightforward and dedicated professional whose contributions had left a lasting impact on the School of Business and the wider university community,” he added.
He encouraged Mr. Mubiru to embrace retirement as an opportunity to pursue new ventures, wishing him good health, fulfillment, and God’s abundant blessings.
Compliance and Continuity in Office Transitions
Mr. Patrick Akonyet, the Head of the Internal Audit Directorate at Makerere University, highlighted the Public Service Standing Orders that govern the handover of office. He noted that these guidelines provide the minimum standards for conducting a lawful and transparent handover, accountability and safeguarding of public resources, as well as promoting continuity in institutional operations.
Collaboration, Accountability and Financial Stewardship
Delivering his acceptance remarks, Mr. Lusiba pledged to work with the College leadership, staff and stakeholders in the execution of the financial management function.
“I am deeply honoured to take on the responsibility of the College Bursar. I thank the College leadership and staff for the warm welcome and I pledge to collaborate with everyone to strengthen financial stewardship, accountability and service to excellence.”
The handover ceremony was witnessed by following university staff: Prof. Edward Bbaale-Principal, Associate Professor James Wokadala-Deputy Principal, Dean, School of Business-Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng, Dean, School of Economics-Associate Professor Ibrahim Mike Okumu, Dean, School of Statistics and Planning-Dr. Margaret Banga, Mr. Patrick Akonyet-Head of Internal Audit, Mr. George Turyamureeba-Deputy University Bursar, Ms Racheal Ikiriza-College Human Resource, Mr. David Ikoma-College Procurement Officer, Ms. Ritah Namisango-Principal Communication Officer, Ms. Stella Butamanya-School Registrar, Mr. Joseph Ikarokok-Chief Custodian, Mr. Julius Muhwezi-Planning Officer and among other members of staff at the College level.
Pleased with Mr. Peter Mubiru’s record of a service, Dr John Bosco Oryema, a member of faculty at the College of Business and Management Sciences said: “Congratulations upon reaching the mandatory retirement. You served with a smile and dedication. I remember when you were the Chief Cashier in the Main Building, you supported many of us in processing the Staff Development Fund. Enjoy the fruits of the hard work.”
Goodwill messages from staff and colleagues
Dr Jude Mugarura: It was a great service coupled with commitment and professionalism. Well done my dear brother, Mr. Peter Mubiru.
Dr Faisal Buyinza: Dear Peter Mubiru, congratulations upon your dedicated service to Makerere University.
Dr Zaina Nakabuye: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru upon reaching this milestone.
Dr Aisha Nanyiti: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru on your dedicated service.
Dr Susan Namirembe Kavuma: Well done Mr. Peter Mubiru, we wish you the best in your new chapter of your life.
Dr Issa Sekatawa: My brother, you have served. We enjoyed our brotherhood before I joined Makerere University
Dr Christopher Muganga: Mr. Peter Mubiru, for your great service to Makerere University and humanity at large, and all the best in your upcoming engagements.
Agnes Ssempebwa: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru on your dedicated service, I wish you od’s blessings in your new chapter of life
Geoffrey Nuwagaba: Thank you Mr. Peter Mubiru for serving us diligently and retire with flowers. I pray that more gates open for you in the next endeavours.
Dr. Patricia Ndugga: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru on your diligent service. Best wishes ahead.
Emmanuel Ssemuyaga: Congratulations on your retirement. It has been a pleasure and privilege working with you. I truly enjoyed the time we interacted, and your contribution, warmth, and collegiality made the experience both exciting and memorable.
Peter Kisaakye: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru. Wishing you well.
Dr Sarah Bimbona: Congratulations. Wishing you all the best in the new Chapter.
Dr Godfrey Akileng: Congratulations. Thank you for completing your tour of duty in building for the future. Your diligent contribution and professionalism leaves a mark. You have been a brother. May the good Lord bless you abundantly.
Dr Kasim Sendawula: Well done Mr. Peter Mubiru. We have indeed enjoyed your dedicated service. May the Almighty God bless you as you embark on a new chapter of life.
Dr Marion Nanyanzi: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru. May the Almighty God bless and guide you as you begin a new chapter.
Dr John Mushomi: Well done Mr. Peter Mubiru. Thanks for keeping young and cool. I am sure work has just started at yours as you retire. The world needs your service more than ever before.
Tadeo Masimengo: May you be blessed as you retire from Makerere University
Dr Peter Babyenda: Thank you for the work well done. Best wishes.
Chris Alioni: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru. You have served well.
Dr Stephen Wandera: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru. You have served us well. I will miss this great partnership and collegial work ethic.
Dr Lillian Tukahirwa: You have served Makerere University with dedication. To God be the glory for the accomplishments and good work.
Jude Sebuliba: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru. I wish you a successful and fruitful re-engagement.
Patience R. Mushengyezi: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru. May God guide you in your next phase.
Paneah Asiimwe: You are a good man. Mr. Peter Mubiru, enjoy your retirement.
Dan Kiganda: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru. Thank you for the dedicated service.
Eric Tumwesigye: Enjoy your next deployments because definitely, you are going for fresh and awesome deployments.
Pictorial:
The Gambia is looking to deepen its public investment management (PIM) systems by drawing lessons from Uganda, with a high-level delegation from the West African country visiting Makerere University’s Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence to benchmark Uganda’s experience.
The delegation, led by Mr Baboucarr Jobe, Permanent Secretary in The Gambia’s Ministry of Finance, visited Makerere University’s Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence to learn from Uganda’s approach to project conceptualisation, appraisal, implementation, monitoring and evaluation.
The visit is part of wider reforms being undertaken by The Gambia to strengthen its economic, judicial and institutional systems, with public investment management identified as a critical area for improvement.
Speaking during the visit, Mr Jobe said The Gambia had embarked on PIM reforms in collaboration with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which advised the country to benchmark its systems against countries with relevant experience.
“Several countries were recommended, but we ultimately chose Uganda. I am happy to say that we are glad we selected Uganda for this assignment,” he said.
He noted that although the delegation initially intended to focus specifically on public investment management, the visit had exposed them to broader areas with potential for cooperation between Uganda and The Gambia.
The delegation also visited Makerere University’s Innovation Centre, where it explored initiatives that could support collaboration between the two countries in advancing economic development.
Mr Jobe said institutions in The Gambia, including the University of The Gambia and the Civil Service University, could potentially collaborate with Makerere University and its Innovation Centre.
Closing gaps in public investment
Mr Jobe identified project conceptualisation, project evaluation, project implementation, monitoring and evaluation as some of the major gaps in The Gambia’s public investment management system.
He said the delegation was particularly impressed by Uganda’s systematic approach to managing public investments and the collaboration among institutions involved in the process.
“What has impressed us in Uganda is the manner in which the public investment management process is carried out step by step,” he said.
The Gambian delegation also observed collaboration among key government institutions, including the Ministry of Finance, Office of the Prime Minister, Office of the President and other stakeholders.
Mr Jobe said such institutional collaboration was an important lesson that The Gambia would seek to replicate.
The delegation had an opportunity to participate in a Development Committee meeting, where they observed how different government offices work together to advance Uganda’s development priorities.
Makerere Centre plays key role
The visit was hosted by the Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence, which is integrated into Uganda’s broader public investment management system.
Prof. Edward Bbaale welcomed the Gambian delegation and said the visit provided an opportunity for peer learning and exchange of practical experiences between the two countries.
He said countries were at different stages of strengthening their public investment systems, making peer learning an important avenue for identifying approaches that could be adapted to different institutional contexts.
“We hope to share not only what has worked well, but also some of the challenges we have encountered and the lessons we have drawn from them,” Prof. Bbaale said.
He encouraged the delegation to engage openly with the Makerere team, ask questions and share their own experiences to ensure that the benchmarking exercise was practical and mutually beneficial.
Building capacity for better investments
Prof. Eria Hisali, who presented an overview of the Centre, emphasised the importance of strengthening public investment systems to ensure that limited public resources are used effectively.
He explained that capital investments remain a key driver of economic growth, but governments often face resource constraints that make it impossible to implement every proposed project.
A strong public investment management system, he said, enables governments to assess and select projects based on their potential returns and development impact.
The Centre aims to support this process by building a pool of well-prepared projects at different stages of development, enabling government to make informed decisions about which projects to finance and implement.
The PIM Centre of Excellence was established with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the UK Trust Fund and the Government of Uganda. It initially operated as a project before being mainstreamed into the Government of Uganda, with its resources now coming directly from government.
Since its establishment, the Centre has trained 526 public-sector officials in areas related to public investment management.
Its training programmes cover key stages of the PIM cycle, including project conceptualisation, integrated analysis, feasibility studies, financial and economic appraisal, risk analysis, project execution, procurement and evaluation.
Strengthening South–South cooperation
For Mr Jobe, the visit was also an opportunity to challenge the tendency of African countries to look outside the continent for solutions to development challenges.
He argued that African countries operate in broadly similar environments and face many common challenges, making the continent an important source of knowledge and practical solutions.
“We need to move away from always looking outside Africa for solutions. There are many valuable initiatives being undertaken by our African brothers and sisters, and it is important that we learn from one another,” he said.
He proposed stronger partnerships between institutions in Uganda and The Gambia, including possible collaboration between universities and civil service training institutions.
“This visit is one step in that direction. South–South cooperation needs to be further strengthened,” he said.
Investing limited resources for greater impact
The Gambian delegation’s interest in public investment management is closely linked to the country’s development challenges.
According to Mr Jobe, The Gambia’s GDP is currently just under US$3 billion, with annual economic growth estimated at between five and six per cent. Inflation has declined significantly from double-digit levels to approximately seven per cent, although poverty remains high at more than 50 per cent.
He said strengthening public investment management was therefore essential to ensuring that the country’s limited public resources generate tangible benefits for citizens.
“This visit will help us ensure that public investment and the limited public resources available to us are utilised efficiently and provide benefits to the average Gambian,” he said.
He added that achieving value for money from public resources would enable citizens to experience greater benefits from government investments and contribute to poverty reduction. The visit marked an important step towards strengthening institutional cooperation between Uganda and The Gambia, while positioning Makerere University and its PIM Centre of Excellence as a potential partner in building public-sector capacity beyond Uganda.
Business & Management
Makerere University Inaugural Conference on Noonomy Paves way for Centre of Excellence in Africa
Makerere University on 20th August 2026, hosted the historic inaugural conference on the Theory of Noonomy, bringing together scholars, policymakers, international partners and students to explore a bold new paradigm for addressing modernity’s deepest crises. Organised by the School of Economics, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) in collaboration with the S.Y. Witte Institute for New Industrial Development, St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Russia and supported by the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF), the conference was held under the theme “The Theory of Noonomy and Its Role in Resolving Modernity Issues: Pathways to Sustainable Social and Economic Transformation.”
The event held in the Senior Common Room, Main Building underscored Makerere’s strategic commitment to thought leadership in Africa’s transformation, positioning the University as a continental hub for alternative development thinking.
Bold Thinking Amid Global Crises
Representing Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA), Prof. Sarah Ssali described the gathering as both timely and historic.
“Across the globe, we continue to witness systemic crises rooted in market fundamentalism, unchecked resource depletion, and the ideology of growth for the sake of growth. These contradictions are not abstract, but they manifest in climate change, widening inequality, and the erosion of social cohesion” Prof. Ssali stated.
On this note, she lauded the Theory of Noonomy, developed by Prof. Sergey Bodrunov, as a transformative lens. She noted that Prof. Sergey Bodrunov’s Theory of Noonomy that prioritizes reason, humanistic values and solidarism, offers a sustainable path forward in the midst of global crises driven by market fundamentalism, resource depletion and endless growth, exacerbated by climate change, inequality, and social erosion. The Theory envisions a shift to a New Industrial Society of the Second Generation (NIS.2) where knowledge, technology, and human potential drive progress.
“Hosting this conference is not accidental,” Prof. Ssali affirmed, adding that it “Reflects our commitment to shaping debates that matter for Africa’s future.” She outlined the conference’s five core objectives: to introduce and contextualise Noonomy within Africa’s socio-economic realities; to explore solutions to systemic challenges such as inequality, resource scarcity and climate change; to identify pathways for integrating Noonomy principles into policy, education and institutional frameworks; to foster collaboration among scholars, policymakers and practitioners; and to lay the groundwork for establishing a Noonomy Centre at the School of Economics, CoBAMS.
She added that once established, the Centre will serve as a hub for continental dialogue, research, and innovation, hence positioning Makerere and her partners to “transform the theory of Noonomy into a living agenda for Africa, that prioritizes knowledge, human potential, and sustainable transformation”.
Noonomy’s Emphasis of Knowledge as the Primary Productive Force
Prof. Sergey Bodrunov, Director of the S.Y. Witte Institute and author of the theory, addressed the conference virtually and underscored Noonomy’s relevance in an era of technological power that can either destroy or elevate humanity. He argued that neoliberal models have entrenched inequality and ecological crises, while the gradual removal of humans from direct material processes open a path to a non-economic mode of satisfying rational human needs.
Additionally, Prof. Nikolay Dmitriev, Director of the S.Y. Witte Institute expanded on the practical implications for Africa. He stressed that technological sovereignty must be pursued without repeating the dependency traps of earlier industrialisation. Cognitive technologies, he noted, can either subordinate humans to the technosphere or place technology in service of human potential. On the other hand, he noted that Africa’s rapid demographic growth and cultural diversity make it a critical laboratory for Noonomy’s application.
Panel Scrutinizes Noonomy under the lens of Ugandan Realities
Moderating the high-level panel, the Principal CoBAMS, Prof. Edward Bbaale, set the stage with a question on the Ugandan context: Can the country move from a technology-consuming economy to a knowledge-producing one while remaining human-centred and inclusive? He outlined three tests any technology adoption should pass under a Noonomy lens; productivity, human development, and inclusion.
“The first test is the productivity test. Does it improve what society can produce? The second test is the human development test. Does it expand skills, creativity, capabilities, and quality of life? And then number three, the inclusion test. Are its benefits widely spread, or does it deepen exclusion?” Prof. Bbale pondered, as he equally thought to interrogate how the theory aligns with Uganda’s tenfold growth strategy and National Development Plan IV.
Panellists included Prof. Robert Wamala-Director of Research, Innovations and Partnerships (DRIP), Makerere University, Dr. Robert Ngobi-Director Policy Research, National Planning Authority (NPA), Mr. Davis Vuningoma who represented Dr. Albert Musisi-Commissioner Macroeconomic Department, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) and Prof. Nikolay D. Dmitriev. Discussions centred on mainstreaming knowledge as a productive force in national planning, financing long-term knowledge-intensive capabilities, and ensuring industrialisation expands rather than displaces human potential.
Prof. Wamala emphasised the need to Africanise the theory, “We should not simply import the concept… Our role should be to interrogate, Africanise and generate evidence on what a knowledge and intelligence-driven economy means in the African context.” He proposed an interdisciplinary research programme, curriculum transformation from knowledge transmission to intelligence development, and the creation of an African Noonomy network led by Makerere.
Dr. Ngobi in his submission noted that although the principles of Noonomy are already addressed by aspects of developing planning, he pointed to the need to address a series of “missing middles” attributed to: reliable and well-costed electricity supply to support hi-tech industries; infrastructure in form of roads, digital infrastructure; seamless interconnectivity in the form of mass rapid transport systems for people and goods; mass education systems; mass health systems that are not only sensitive to local diseases but also viable for medical tourism; as well as knowledge research and innovation informed by national priorities.
Addressing financing of national development priorities, Mr. Vuningoma emphasised the Government appreciation of the need to fund Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) as a pillar for economic transformation. As such he shared that over UGX 1 Trillion had been allocated to the STI sector to support innovations particularly in health.
Prof. Dmitriev on his part addressed the research topics that should become priorities for the first stage of cooperation between Makerere University and the World Association of Noonomy and the S.Y. Witte Institute of Noonomy and New Industrial Development.
Questions from the floor and online participants focused on inclusivity of youth and women, reconciliation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with African cultural values and indigenous knowledge, and mechanisms to prevent elite capture of automated production. Panelists stressed that Noonomy’s emphasis on solidarity and human-centred development provides the ethical foundation for addressing these concerns through joint research.
Courtesy Call on the Vice Chancellor
Key on the agenda of the visiting delegation was a courtesy call on the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. In his remarks, Prof. Nawangwe thanked Prof. Sergey D. Bodrunov, author of the Theory of Noonomy and Prof. Dmitriev for choosing Makerere out of all African Universities as partner in advancement of future collaborations and research. He added that setting up a Centre of Excellence in Noonomy at the School of Economics would bolster the University’s aspirations to become Africa’s thought leader in knowledge generation for societal transformation and development.
Transitioning from Dialogue to Institutional Action
In his closing remarks, Dean of the School of Economics, Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu described the conference as the start of a sustained institutional relationship rather than a one-off event. He committed the School to developing a concrete research agenda with named outputs and timelines, including joint studies on automation and labour markets in African economies, doctoral exchanges, and empirical testing of Noonomy claims against Ugandan and East African data.
“Let us treat Noonomy as a diagnostic, not a blueprint,” Prof. Okumu urged. “Its greatest value to us is not a policy program awaiting adoption, but a lens sharpening the questions our own planners must answer directly. How do we build human and creative capacity alongside industrial capacity rather than after it? How does this school develop a research agenda that studies Uganda’s own transition rather than import a finished framework wholesale?” he pondered.
He announced Makerere’s forthcoming participation in the World Association of Noonomy Congress in Italy and reiterated the University’s determination to establish the proposed Noonomy Centre as a hub for continental dialogue, research and innovation.
The conference concluded with exchanges of gifts, group photographs and expressions of gratitude to partners including the Government of Uganda through Mak-RIF, the Russian Embassy, and the S.Y. Witte Institute.
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