Makerere University’s College of Education and External Studies (CEES) has officially launched the Mindset Change and Social-economic Transformation from the People’s World (MiSeT) project, marking a significant milestone in the university’s efforts to promote social change and national development. The launch event, held at CEES, brought together a diverse group of academics, government officials, and community leaders to discuss the project’s goals and anticipated impact.
Dr. Achen Stella, a central figure in the MiSeT project, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to making the initiative possible. She praised the research team’s dedication and specifically thanked Dr. Fred Masagazi Massazi for his pivotal role in securing the grant that brought the project to life. Dr. Achen also acknowledged the vital mentorship provided by the college principal, which has significantly bolstered the department’s growth and success. She further recognized Dr. Nabushawa Harriet, the Dean of Education, for her encouragement in motivating staff to write research proposals, and thanked the organizing team for their efforts in ensuring the event’s success.
In her address, Dr. Nabushawo Harriet highlighted the transformative potential of the MiSe T project. “We are focused on shifting people’s ways of thinking, behaviors, and approaches to problem-solving,” she stated. “This shift is essential for achieving meaningful transformation and making a substantial impact on people’s lives.” She underscored the importance of long-term projects funded by the Research and Innovations Fund (RIF) and expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to conduct such impactful research. Dr. Nabushawo also mentioned the forthcoming publication funded by the principal, which will compile key findings from RIF-funded projects, serving as a valuable resource for future research and policymaking.
Professor Anthony M. Mugagga, speaking at the event, emphasized the necessity of changing mindsets that hinder development. He stressed the importance of aligning the project’s goals with Uganda’s Vision 2040, which aims to achieve middle-income status. “To realize this vision, we must shift our mindset from what we already know to new, progressive ways of thinking,” Prof. Mugagga remarked. He also highlighted the role of social transformation, including parenting, in achieving this mindset change, and called for a deeper understanding of Uganda’s anthropological environment and the protection of cultural values.
Dr. Twine Bananuka provided an in-depth overview of the MiSeT project, explaining that the study aims to engage communities in the mindset change process. He outlined the project’s objectives, which include fostering a culture of productivity, value consciousness, and improved livelihoods. “Mindset change is a process, not an end in itself,” Dr. Bananuka noted, emphasizing that the ultimate goal is sustainable development and better lives for all.
Further elaborating on the project’s scope, Dr. Nampijja Dianah discussed the specific areas of research focus and the challenges encountered. The research will take place in Komamboga, Mpigi, and Bwaise, with a particular emphasis on overcoming barriers to community self-help initiatives. The Mayor of Mpigi Town Council expressed his support for the research and called for additional funding to ensure its continuity.
Professor Fred Masagazi Massazi appealed to the government for increased funding, highlighting the need for continued support of impactful projects like MiSeT. He noted that the equipment purchased under the RIF grant belongs to the department and stressed the importance of translating research findings into policy briefs that can guide national strategies. Prof. Masagazi also emphasized ongoing support for Ph.D. students and their supervisors and pledged to establish a grants office at CEES to streamline future research initiatives.
Representing the Ministry of Gender, Ms. Imelda Kyalingabira commended Makerere University for its research efforts and its pivotal role in educating Ugandans. She noted that Uganda’s Vision 2040 emphasizes the need for mindset transformation as a pathway to economic growth. “This research is timely and will aid the transformation and development we seek,” she stated. Ms. Kyalingabira also highlighted the ministry’s role in community mobilization and mindset change, noting their efforts in training community development officers and planners to support the implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM) and other mindset change initiatives. She expressed optimism that the MiSeT project would yield significant results and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working with Makerere University to improve communities across the country.
The launch of the MiSeT project represents a pivotal moment in Makerere University’s ongoing efforts to drive social and educational transformation. As the project moves forward, the university, in collaboration with government and community partners, is well-positioned to make a lasting impact on Uganda’s journey toward sustainable development and national prosperity.
