Makerere University and China’s Xiangtan University are set to introduce a joint Master’s degree programme in Chemical Engineering as the two institutions seek to strengthen academic cooperation, student exchanges and staff collaboration.

The planned programme was highlighted during a meeting between Makerere University Vice Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe and a delegation from Xiangtan University led by Professor Dingyu Ou.

The discussions focused on expanding the partnership between the two universities, building on their existing academic and cultural ties.

Addressing the visiting delegation, Professor Nawangwe commended the establishment of the Confucius Institute at Makerere University, noting its role in opening opportunities for strategic collaboration between Uganda and China.

The Vice Chancellor also expressed Makerere University’s interest in learning from China’s development model, particularly the role universities can play in promoting innovation and contributing to poverty eradication.

His remarks highlighted the importance of strengthening links between higher education, research, innovation and national development.

Professor Ou acknowledged the longstanding relationship between Makerere University and Xiangtan University and expressed appreciation for the support extended to the Confucius Institute at Makerere University and its staff.

He also looked forward to the successful commencement of the planned Chemical Engineering collaboration.

The proposed joint Master’s programme is expected to provide a new avenue for academic cooperation between the two institutions, alongside expanded opportunities for student and staff exchanges.

The Confucius Institute at Makerere University forms part of the longstanding educational relationship between Makerere and Xiangtan University.

According to Makerere University’s published account, the institute was established in December 2014 to promote Chinese language learning and cultural exchange in Uganda. The collaboration has helped strengthen academic and cultural links between the two institutions.

The planned Chemical Engineering programme would extend this relationship further into specialised postgraduate education, while continued exchanges could provide opportunities for students and academic staff to engage with their counterparts at the partner institution.

Beyond postgraduate education, the collaboration is intended to advance cultural and professional exchange between Uganda and China.

The proposed expansion of student and staff exchanges could strengthen academic interaction, knowledge sharing and professional relationships between the participating universities.

The initiative also reflects Makerere University’s interest in international partnerships that connect higher education with innovation, skills development and broader socioeconomic progress.

The next steps will include further details on the joint Master’s programme and the implementation of the expanded exchange arrangements, as communicated by the universities.