General
Makerere Explores Strategic Industry Partnership with Psalms Food Industries to Strengthen Manufacturing Innovation
On 2nd March, 2026, representatives from the Advancement Office, the College of Business and Management Sciences and the University Innovation Pod visited Psalms Food Industries to discuss a prospective partnership aimed at strengthening university–industry collaboration in manufacturing, research, innovation, and skills development.
Psalms Food Industries, a homegrown snacks innovation and manufacturing company, operates three major brands, namely, Sumz, Afrikan Harvest and Krunchables, which have grown to a range of 37 products and target the introduction of five new products annually. The company distributes products across Kenya, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, and, recently, Tanzania. As a labour of love, the idea of producing snacks was born during the honeymoon of Mr and Mrs Ngabirano, who now run Psalms Food Industries side by side.
Dr. Denis Ngabirano, CEO and Co-Founder of Psalms Food Industries, during the meeting, described the company as “a snacks innovation house, with all our products developed in-house.” He noted.
He emphasised the company’s commitment to quality assurance and consumer-centred research, noting that Psalms conducts surveys and gathers customer feedback to inform product development, supported by an internal microbiology and chemistry laboratory.
Dr. Denis Ngabirano noted that the company had only recently introduced two brands, “Afrikan Harvest for it’s health conscious clientele and Kruchables for it’s volume centric clientele.
“Afrikan Harvest has no additives, it is a brand for health-focused consumers,” he explained, while highlighting the differentiated positioning of their product lines. “Sumz is our premium brand, and Krunchables focuses on volume.”
Student-Centered Experiential Learning
A key focus of the meeting was structured experiential learning for students across disciplines. Potential areas of collaboration include internships, graduate trainee pathways, and hands-on exposure within Psalms’ incubation and production facilities.
The proposed engagement spans multiple fields, including environmental sciences, engineering, procurement and logistics, finance and accounting, quality control, production and manufacturing, human resource management, marketing, and international business.
The partnership could provide students with direct exposure to real-time production systems, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and quality assurance frameworks, strengthening the practical relevance of their academic training.
Among the innovative ideas discussed was a potential competition involving students from the Fine Art and Industrial Design disciplines to redesign packaging for selected Sumz products. The proposal would allow top designs to be commercially adopted, creating a direct bridge between creativity, intellectual property development, and industrial application.
Research, Innovation and Commercialisation
Both institutions expressed interest in joint applied research initiatives, particularly in process optimisation, data analytics for manufacturing efficiency, product improvement, and sustainable production systems.
Opportunities were also discussed around collaborative research in machine design, crop development for snack processing, and factory energy solutions, areas that not only benefit Psalms but have broader implications for Uganda’s manufacturing sector.
The engagement further highlighted potential linkages with the University’s innovation and commercialisation structures, including the University Innovation Pod (UNIPOD), to support co-creation and scaling of student-led innovations.
Mr Awel Uwihanganye, Chief Advancement Officer at Makerere University, proposed strengthening the engagement through structured programming, including a planned collaboration between the University’s innovation Hub and the upcoming incubation Hub at Psalms Food Industries, particularly to support the commercialisation of research outcomes for both students and staff.
Curriculum Co-Creation and Staff Exchange
Beyond student placements, discussions also focused on co-developing academic content that responds more directly to industry needs, particularly within the manufacturing value chain.
Proposals included guest lectures by industry practitioners, staff exchange programmes to expose academic staff to factory operations, and tailored short courses for Psalms staff based on identified skills gaps.
Dr. Jude Mugarura, Head of the Department of Marketing and Management at COBAMS, emphasised the importance of embedding the partnership within academic programming. He proposed “internships for students in HR, marketing, international business, accounting and finance,” as well as staff exchanges to give University staff hands-on exposure to manufacturing operations.
He further suggested specialised courses tailored to the factory’s needs and attachment of research students interested in manufacturing. Such collaboration would contribute to curriculum responsiveness and ensure that graduates are equipped with market-relevant competencies.
Strengthening University–Industry Linkages
The engagement reflects Makerere University’s continued commitment to strengthening partnerships that bridge knowledge generation and real-sector application.
Both institutions expressed a shared vision of building a structured, mutually beneficial collaboration that integrates research, innovation, skills development, and enterprise growth, positioning the University as a key knowledge partner in Uganda’s manufacturing transformation.
Discussions remain ongoing as both parties refine priority areas for formalisation.
Caroline Kainomugisha is the Communications Officer, Advancement Office.
Hosts Makerere University have officially kicked off the East African Universities’ Debate Championship EAUDC ZAABU 2026, bringing together student debaters, university leaders, and representatives from universities across the region to promote intellectual engagement, critical thinking, leadership development, and regional collaboration. The championship provides a platform for students to exchange ideas, strengthen public speaking skills, and develop solutions through constructive dialogue. This year’s theme is: From Dialogue to Action: The Role of Youth in Africa’s Transformation.
The event reflects Makerere University’s continued commitment to nurturing student leadership, academic excellence, and regional integration by providing opportunities for young people to engage in meaningful discussions and build networks beyond national borders.
Debate as a Platform for Regional Engagement
Chairperson of the Organizing Committee and Makerere University Debate Union (MDU), Mr. Arthur Akatwijuka highlighted the importance of hosting the championship and bringing together universities from different countries across East Africa. He noted that the event demonstrates the role of debate in connecting young leaders, promoting intellectual diversity, and strengthening collaboration among institutions of higher learning.
‘We are excited to have representation from the different countries and universities. This championship is not only about competition but also about creating a platform where young leaders can engage, share ideas, and shape the future of our region,’ said Mr. Akatwijuka.
Mr. Akatwijuka further explained that the championship provides participants with an opportunity to learn from different perspectives, develop confidence, and build skills that will contribute to their leadership journey. He encouraged students to embrace the experience as a platform for knowledge exchange and regional cooperation.
Reaffirming Makerere University‘s Commitment to Regional Integration
Speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment to advancing regional integration and nurturing future leaders through the EAUDC2026. He descried the championship as a vital platform for strengthening collaboration among universities.
‘Makerere was the first university in East Africa, so you are coming back home. This is your university, and its doors are always open to you,’ said Prof. Alinaitwe.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor noted that the championship builds on Makerere University‘s efforts to promote youth leadership and regional cooperation through debate. He said the competition equips participants with critical thinking, communication, research, and leadership skills while fostering unity among East African youth. ‘As we debate regionally, we are strengthening regional integration. By coming here, articulating your points and convincing others, you are being groomed to become formidable leaders and a force for production and transformation in our societies,’ he said.
Prof. Alinaitwe emphasized that beyond the competition, the championship creates opportunities for participants to build regional networks and lasting partnerships that can support future academic, professional, and leadership opportunities. He encouraged all participants to view themselves as winners for contributing to East Africa’s shared vision of integration and development.
‘All of us are already winners simply by participating in this championship. Whether you finish first or sixth, you have strengthened your skills and contributed to building the future of our region,’ stated Prof. Alinaitwe.
Developing Responsible Leaders Through Debate
The Dean of Students Makerere University, Dr. Winifred Namuwonge Kabumbuli warmly welcomed participants and described the championship as an important opportunity for developing responsible and innovative leaders. Dr. Namuwonge noted that debate enables students to improve their communication skills, engage with diverse perspectives, and become better prepared for future leadership roles.
Dr. Namuwonge encouraged participants to uphold integrity, respect different viewpoints, and use the championship as a platform for learning and cultural exchange. ‘Makerere University is proud to host this championship because debate develops leaders who can engage society with knowledge, confidence, and respect,’ Dr. Namuwonge noted.
Communication Skills for Future Leaders
The Electoral Commission Uganda, Head of Public Relations and Spokesperson, Mr. Julius Mucunguzi congratulated the organizers and participants for promoting intellectual dialogue through the championship. He emphasized that debate plays a significant role in preparing young people to communicate effectively and participate in leadership.
Mr. Mucunguzi explained that the skills acquired through debating extend beyond competition and are valuable in professional and public spaces. ‘Debate equips young people with the ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and contribute meaningfully to society. Makerere is proud to provide this platform for East Africa’s future leaders.’
He encouraged students to continue embracing debate as a tool for knowledge sharing, understanding different perspectives, and contributing positively to society.
Transform Dialogue into Action
The keynote speaker and Executive Secretary of Inter University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), Prof. Idris A. Rai who was represented by Dr. Gervais Ndayizeye challenged young people across East Africa to move beyond discussions and take action in addressing challenges facing the continent. He described the championship as a platform for developing future leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers who will contribute to Africa’s transformation.
‘We wish that the end comes not only with debate but with action. The role of youth in African transformation is very important,’ the keynote speaker said.
Dr. Ndayizeye emphasized that young people, who make up more than 70 per cent of Africa’s population, have the potential to turn challenges into opportunities through innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership. He encouraged the youth to change their mindset from seeking employment to creating solutions and opportunities for others.
‘The question should no longer be, ‘Who will employ me?’ The new question should be, ‘What problem can I solve?’ challenged Dr. Ndayizeye.
Dr. Ndayizeye urged young leaders to actively participate in governance by voting, engaging in public affairs, and holding leaders accountable. He also highlighted the importance of East African integration, calling on young people to embrace regional cooperation and take advantage of opportunities across member states.
‘You must vote. You must engage. You must contribute. You must hold leaders accountable. You must become part of the leadership,’ Dr. Ndayizeye stated.
He further stressed that discipline is essential for success, noting that talent and education must be supported by commitment and responsibility. ‘Talent without discipline is wasted potential. Discipline is what transforms goals into achievements,’ Prof. Idris said.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Ndayizeye challenged participants to become innovators, responsible citizens, and creators of opportunities who will turn ideas into action. ‘This generation will be remembered as the generation that transformed dialogue into action, challenges into opportunities, and possibilities into progress. The future of this East African Community is sitting in this room today,’ he concluded.
EAUDC ZAABU 2026 is organised by the Makerere University Debate Union (MDU), the official student organization that promotes debate, public speaking, poetry, and critical discourse. The debate will be held from 27th to 31st July 2026 at the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility.
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