Climate change centre opened at Makerere

Aug 06, 2013

Makerere University College of Agriculture and Environmental Science has launched a research centre for climate change.

By Agnes Nantabi

Makerere University College of Agriculture and Environmental Science has launched a research centre for climate change.

It is intended to generate and disseminate knowledge and innovations on climate change resilience and sustainable development in Uganda and Africa.

Speaking during the launch of the centre at Makerere recently, Samuel Kyamanywa, the acting principal of the college, said it will help to enhance and sustain climate change-related research.

“In order to achieve these, there is a need to conduct research on climate change science, mitigation and adaptation for the agricultural and natural resources sectors,” Kyamanywa said. The centre was established with support from the Rockerfeller Foundation.

Paul Isabirye, the assistant commissioner of the department of meteorology training and research and co-ordinator of the climate change unit in the water and environment ministry, observed that climate change is becoming the greatest challenge facing humanity, and thus, calls combined efforts.

Prof. Elly Sabbiti, the chairperson of the curriculum committee which was set up to incorporate the climate change components into the college’s main curriculum, said they have already introduced cross-cutting courses for all first-year undergraduates. He added that over 100 staff members have also been retooled in climate change science.

The committee was set up to review the curriculum in order to mainstream climate change adaptation, mitigation and resilience as well as develop a new master’s degree programme in climate sciences.

“The first-ever masters degree in climate sciences has been developed and awaits approval from the relevant bodies,” he said.

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