Makerere University has unveiled significant advancements in medical delivery, road safety research, and digital learning, reinforcing its role as a leader in research-driven community transformation.
During a press briefing held on 29th May 2025 at the Senior Common Room, Main Building, Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi presented updates on two key research projects: the IDI Medical Drone Programme and the Kampala Status Summary 2023 on Road Safety Risk Factors. He also outlined new developments in digital education and academic administration.
Prof. Buyinza emphasized the university’s commitment to innovation. “We share compelling findings from two groundbreaking studies that reflect Makerere University’s ongoing commitment to impactful research, innovation, and community transformation,” he said.
The IDI Medical Drone Programme, spearheaded by the Infectious Diseases Institute, uses drone technology to deliver HIV medications and test samples to remote areas, especially Kalangala District and West Nile. The initiative has improved access to life-saving healthcare while reducing costs and logistical delays.
Dr. Andrew Kambugu, Executive Director of the Infectious Diseases Institute, explained that drones are closing the gap for underserved communities by ensuring timely delivery of essential medical supplies.
The second highlight, the Kampala Status Summary 2023, was conducted under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety. The project is a collaboration between Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and Makerere’s Trauma, Injury, and Disability (TRIAD) Unit. Over two years of data collection focused on vehicle speed and helmet use, revealing key risk factors behind road traffic injuries in Kampala.
Dr. Fredrick Oporia, Head of the TRIAD Unit, presented the findings alongside colleagues Dr. Jimmy Osuret and Dr. Esther Bayiga. The research calls for stronger enforcement, improved planning, and targeted public health messaging to address road safety challenges.
Prof. Buyinza also announced several digital innovations at the university:
- Digital Certification of Academic Transcripts via the Makerere Academic Records System (Mak-ARS), which now allows alumni to certify documents online, eliminating the need for in-person visits.
- The rollout of Mak-RIMS, a digital supervision system for graduate students, designed to enhance accountability and speed up feedback in postgraduate research.
- Inclusive eLearning and Smart Classrooms, supported by the Government and development partners, which feature multimedia tools for students with visual and auditory impairments.
- The launch of an Artificial Intelligence Laboratory at the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), aimed at creating AI solutions tailored to Uganda’s development needs.
“These initiatives are part of our broader vision to transform Makerere University into a research-led, inclusive, and globally relevant institution,” Prof. Buyinza said.
Other university officials in attendance included Mr. Samuel Mugabi, Director for ICT Support; Ms. Betty Kyakuwa, Deputy Chief Public Relations Officer; and Mr. Musa Mulindwa, Deputy Chief Security Officer.
The university reaffirmed its mission to lead national development through research, technology, and inclusive education.
Related Posts
Technical Analysis: 4 Stocks with signs of death crossovers to keep an eye on
HDFC Bank & 3 other fundamentally strong stocks trading above 200 DMA to keep an eye on
Falling Channel Breakout: Multibagger NBFC Stock Shows Bullish Momentum on Daily Chart
4 Fundamentally strong stocks to buy for an upside potential of up to 36%; Do you hold any?
