At the Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration (IDRC), we understand the importance of innovation and collaboration. These principles were brought to life on September 9th, 2024, when we had the pleasure of attending an event hosted by Makerere University’s Department of Architecture and Physical Planning at Makerere University College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT). The occasion? A special showcase by Year Three architecture students, presenting their proposed designs for the IDRC’s new building project.
Our senior management team, including Executive Director Professor Moses Kamya, Deputy Executive Director Dr. Joaniter Nankabirwa, and Director of Finance and Administration Catherine Tugaineyo, were invited to witness this remarkable display of talent and creativity.
Guided by Dr. Arch. Kenneth Ssemwogerere, an Architect, Construction Manager, and Academic and Dr. Arch. Assumpta Nnaggenda Musana an Architect, Urban Planner, and Academic both Senior Lecturers at Makerere University’s Department of Architecture and Physical Planning we were taken through a series of conceptual, scheme, and design presentations that left us in awe of the potential these young minds hold.
The students displayed their architectural plans, complete with detailed 3D models, offering us a glimpse of what our future building could look like. As we sat through each presentation, it became clear that this wasn’t just about designing a structure; it was about creating something that would serve as a lasting symbol of IDRC’s mission, vision, and values.
Professor Moses Kamya was quick to express his admiration. “I am impressed by how you have approached these designs,” he said, speaking to the students. “You’ve not only thought about the physical structure but the context in which it will exist. You’ve considered sound, traffic, the environment, and the well-being of the people using the space. Architecture is not just about drawings—it’s about understanding the whole picture.”
It was a decisive moment for all of us at IDRC. We weren’t just seeing designs for a building; we were witnessing the next generation of architects shaping the future with ideas that could have a global impact. As Professor Kamya highlighted, “There is talent here that can benefit not just Uganda but the world.”
The event wasn’t only a learning experience for us but also a celebration of the students’ hard work. After the presentations, we moved to the awarding ceremony, where Professor Kamya and Mr Yusuf Kiranda, the Principal of Makerere University CEDAT, presented certificates to the students. The best designs were honoured with excellence awards, recognising the dedication and thoughtfulness that went into their work.
Mr. Kiranda echoed the sentiments of pride in seeing the students’ progress. “This is the best way to train our students—by giving them real-world projects to work on,” he said. “They may be students today, but soon they will be the senior architects in town. Your work can influence the happiness and productivity of those who use the buildings you design.”
The day ended on a high note, with the cutting of a celebratory cake and a shared lunch, allowing everyone to reflect on what had been an inspiring and enriching experience. For us at IDRC, it was not only about engaging with Makerere University but about recognising the power of collaboration, creativity, and forward thinking.
This event has laid the foundation for what we hope will be a fruitful partnership with Makerere University, one that taps into the incredible potential of its students while contributing to IDRC’s goal of advancing public health through research and innovation. The journey of building our new facility has just begun, but with the input and ideas we’ve gathered from this talented group of young architects, the future is looking bright.
We are excited to see how this collaboration evolves, and we remain committed to supporting the next generation of innovators, ensuring their work has a lasting impact on Uganda and beyond.
To the students, thank you for your dedication, passion, and creativity. Your work has already made a mark, and we look forward to seeing where your talents take you.
