GAMSU Holds Strategic Retreat to Strengthen Grants Management for a Research-First Makerere University

Entebbe, Uganda – June 15, 2025

The Grants Administration and Management Support Unit (GAMSU) successfully concluded a three-day strategic planning retreat from June 12–15, 2025, at Adamas Hotel, Entebbe. The retreat served as a platform for performance reflection, institutional alignment, and action planning to support Makerere University’s goal of becoming a research-first institution.

The retreat brought together GAMSU staff, college and unit coordinators, and key facilitators to review the unit’s performance in the 2024/2025 financial year and develop a focused strategy for 2025/2026. The sessions were coordinated by Ms. Carol Nabwire, Mr. Paison Tayebwa, and Mr. Denis Wamala.

Highlights of the Retreat:

• Performance Review and Planning: Led by Prof. Charles Masembe, participants evaluated past performance and engaged in forward-looking planning aligned with HR appraisal systems.

• Engagement of College/Unit Coordinators: The retreat emphasized the role of GAMSU Coordinators as ambassadors, strengthening grant processes across the university.

• Digital Transformation: Staff were introduced to the use of the eMakGAMS platform for streamlined grants tracking and management.

• Grants Access and Strategy: Sessions on GrantForward, team formation, and navigating grants policies were delivered by experts including Prof. Nannyonga-Tamusuza.

“This retreat has been instrumental in aligning our strategic objectives with Makerere University’s broader vision of becoming a research-led institution,” remarked the Head of GAMSU. “Our focus remains on efficiency, accountability, and support that enables impactful research through well-managed grant systems.”

As a critical arm of Makerere’s research infrastructure, GAMSU remains committed to advancing efficient, transparent, and proactive grants management that empowers researchers and contributes to national and global development goals.