Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) is set to gain independence from the College of Health Sciences starting January, Vice Chancellor Barnabas Nawangwe announced. The decision aims to empower the school to enhance its research capabilities and streamline decision-making processes.
Speaking during the launch of a new strategic plan for the school, Nawangwe highlighted its significant contribution, noting that MakSPH accounts for 40% of all research conducted at Makerere University. However, he acknowledged challenges in handling grants, as funders often prefer dealing directly with autonomous institutions rather than through the College of Health Sciences.
MakSPH produces up to 350 publications annually in international peer-reviewed journals and oversees 200 research projects, including national health surveys critical for government public health policy decisions. Nawangwe emphasized that autonomy will enable the school to address emerging public health challenges more effectively and diversify its operations.
This shift marks a return to the school’s roots, as it was initially established as an independent institute of public health before being integrated into the College of Health Sciences.
Prof. Fred Wabwire-Mangen, a medical researcher and public health specialist, traced the school’s history to its beginnings in the early 1950s as a department of preventive medicine in Kasangati. He welcomed the move towards autonomy, citing the need for quicker decision-making and greater flexibility in addressing public health training and collaboration demands.
He pointed to the school’s long-standing initiatives, such as the “public health schools without walls” model, which has fostered extensive collaboration since 1994. Researchers have recommended that 75% of public health training occur outside the classroom, making agility and independence vital.
Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, the Dean of MakSPH, unveiled a five-year strategic plan targeting three critical areas: addressing health challenges associated with climate change, urbanization, and other emerging issues.
Despite its success in securing international grants, Wanyenze expressed concerns about inadequate funding for local public health priorities. She called for increased government investment, noting that funds from the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund are insufficient to address the country’s pressing health challenges.
As the school transitions to independence, leaders are optimistic about its potential to expand its impact on Uganda’s public health landscape and beyond.