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Makerere University and Oregon State University have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on various research initiatives, including postgraduate supervision, staff and student exchanges, and joint academic programs. This partnership aims to enhance research capacity and support the mentorship of future scientists.

Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, signing the MoU on behalf of Makerere University

Makerere University has formalized a collaboration with Oregon State University through a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance research initiatives.

The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, signed the MoU on behalf of Makerere University. The ceremony was attended by Dr. Revocatus Twinomuhangi, Dean of the School of Forestry, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences; Dr. Lawrence Orikiriza, Head of the Department of Forestry, Biodiversity and Tourism; and Prof. Jim Ayorekire from the same department.

Representing Oregon State University were Dr. Ian E. Munanura, Associate Professor in the Department of Forest Ecosystems and Society, College of Forestry, and Racheal Fahrenbach, Manager of International Programs at the College of Forestry.

Representing Oregon State University Dr. Ian E. Munanura and Racheal Fahrenbach posing for a photo with Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe of Makerere University

The partnership encompasses various areas, including teaching and supervision of postgraduate studies, staff and student exchanges, exchange of academic information and materials, joint research, participation in conferences and academic meetings, development of short-term academic programs, and resource mobilization for mutually beneficial projects.

Prof. Nawangwe highlighted that this collaboration aligns with Makerere University’s Strategic Plan, emphasizing its goal of becoming a research-led institution. He stated, “As we move towards becoming a research-led university, we aim to contribute to the realization of Agenda 2063, which seeks to produce at least one million PhDs in Africa as part of efforts to eradicate poverty. Partnerships like this will help us achieve our target by enhancing our supervision capacity.”

Dr. Ian Munanura expressed Oregon State University’s enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting, “The partnership will strengthen the research capacity of both institutions and support the mentorship of the next generation of scientists to address global challenges such as climate change and unemployment.”

Prof. Jim Ayorekire, reflecting on the inception of this collaboration, shared that the idea originated during his tenure as a scholar at Oregon State University. He emphasized the unique synergy between the forestry and tourism disciplines at both universities, stating, “In Uganda, over 50% of tourism revenue comes from gorilla tourism, which is closely linked to our forests. This collaboration is vital as it leverages the connection between forestry and tourism, essential for sustainable tourism development in our country.”