Makerere University played host to the Alliance for African Partnership (AAP) dialogue, which took place from September 9th to 11th, 2024, at the School of Public Health Conference Hall.
The event, part of the AAP consortium’s series of discussions, focused on the theme “Innovation in Higher Education Programs and Practices,” aligning with the African Union’s 2024 declaration as the “Year of Education.”
Dr. Thangavel Palanivel, a senior economist with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), delivered the keynote address, urging governments and organizations such as UNDP to increase funding for innovations and research in African institutions.
He commended Makerere University for its role as a guiding light among African universities and emphasized the importance of institutional transformation.
Several distinguished guests attended the dialogue, including Makerere University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, and Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi.
The discussions explored the role of universities in pioneering change and transforming educational systems across the continent.
A highlight of the event was a panel discussion featuring academics and practitioners. Dr. Elizabeth Nansubuga, a representative from the Higher Education Resource Services-East Africa (HERS-EA), who called for gender parity in postgraduate programs.
“If we are to attain one million PhDs in 10 years, we need to address the issues of gender and inclusivity,” Dr. Nansubuga stated, referencing the need for more equitable access to advanced education.
In his closing remarks, Prof. Mwenda Ntarangwi, Vice Chancellor of USIU-Africa, emphasized the need for partnerships among institutions to address global challenges such as conflict, disease, and climate change.
“There are no boundaries that can keep these issues out,” he noted.
The AAP Consortium, launched in 2023, aims to find solutions to challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic through innovation and collaboration.