On July 4, 2024, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) and the Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) formalized a collaborative partnership centered on research and community engagement through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The ceremony was attended by key officials from both institutions, including URCS Secretary General Robert Kwesiga and MUST Vice Chancellor Prof. Celestino Obua with the University Secretary Mr. Vincent Kwatampora and the University Legal Officer Timothy Mugumya (Esq), The URCS delegation also comprised Director of Operations Dr. Harriet Kagoya Kibuule and Policy and Advocacy Manager Counsel Grace Mark Tusubira.
The MoU aligns with the URCS’s vision of delivering high-quality, sustainable humanitarian aid and its mission to be a leading partner in saving lives, building resilient communities, and promoting human dignity. The partnership aims to leverage the combined strengths of both organizations to address pressing community challenges through research and practical interventions.
MUST Vice Chancellor Prof. Celestino ObuaURCS Secretary General Robert Kwesiga expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership between URCS and MUST. He highlighted the importance of the Red Cross’ core principles in guiding their work. The partnership aims to improve healthcare in Uganda through joint efforts in addressing health challenges, capacity building, and emergency response.
The Secretary General mentioned that by collaborating with MUST, they were translating their shared commitment to humanity into tangible actions. He further stated that together, they would explore innovative approaches to address pressing health challenges, build the capacity of healthcare professionals, and strengthen their emergency response capabilities.
He concluded by saying that he was confident that the collaboration would yield remarkable results and contribute significantly to the health and well-being of Ugandans.
Expressing gratitude for the collaboration, “This MoU has been a labor of love,” Vice Chancellor Prof. Celestino Obua remarked, “It has evolved through the leadership of three deans from the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies: Dr. Viola Nyakato, Dr. Rogers Bariyo, and now Dr. Wendo Mlhagwa. This collaborative journey has ensured that the partnership aligns perfectly with the core missions of both Mbarara University of Science and Technology and the Uganda Red Cross Society.” He emphasized the importance of the collaboration and assured the URCS of the university’s full support in implementing the MoU.
The partnership between Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) and the Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) marks a significant step towards addressing humanitarian challenges in Uganda. By combining the university’s research capabilities with the Red Cross’s extensive community network, this collaboration has the potential to create lasting positive change. As MUST’s tagline aptly states, “Succeed we Must,” this partnership is a depiction of the institution’s commitment to making a tangible impact on society. Together, these two organizations are poised to drive innovation, build resilience, and improve the lives of countless Ugandans.
Mr. Vincent Kwatampola, MUST -US Dr. Harriet Kagoya Kibuule – Director of Operations
A brief about URCS
Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS)
The Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) is a humanitarian organization dedicated to providing assistance to vulnerable people in Uganda. As a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, the URCS is guided by the Fundamental Principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. For more details, please click: https://redcrossug.org/about-us/
