Over 100 aspiring PhD candidates attended a hybrid workshop organized by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) on Saturday, January 11, 2025. The event aimed to equip applicants with essential skills for crafting competitive applications for the 2025 Gerda Henkel Fellowship.
The workshop, conducted both in-person and online, provided detailed guidance on the application process for the Interdisciplinary PhD Programme by Research in Historical Humanities and Humanistic Social Sciences. The program is fully funded by the Gerda Henkel Foundation and is set to admit ten scholars for the 2025 cohort.
In her opening remarks, CHUSS Principal Prof. Helen Nkabala commended the organizing team and encouraged participants to take the training seriously. She expressed gratitude to the faculty for their dedication and urged them to be open in sharing their expertise. Prof. Nkabala stated, "We want to give you an equal footing as you start your application process. Faculty members, please speak with your heart so everyone can benefit."
Participants received training on various topics, including crafting fellowship-winning proposals, understanding historical humanities, and insights on managing application timelines and packages from Gerda Henkel alumni. Faculty members emphasized the importance of adhering to program guidelines, showcasing originality, and aligning research interests with the program's interdisciplinary focus.
Dr. Levis Mugumya, Program Coordinator, highlighted the significance of the program’s focus on historical humanities and humanistic social sciences. He noted that eligible fields of research include classics, archaeology, anthropology, creative arts, and political theory, among others. He stressed that applicants must demonstrate strong research skills, fluency in English, and readiness for full-time study starting in August 2025.
The fellowship targets Ugandan and sub-Saharan African nationals under the age of 40 years, or 45 years for women. Eligible candidates must hold a relevant Master’s and Bachelor’s degree, provide academic references, and commit to completing the program within three years. The fellowship offers comprehensive funding, including tuition, stipends, medical insurance, equipment, books, travel expenses, and conference participation. The program’s structured timeline includes proposal development, fieldwork, and dissertation writing phases.
Applications must be submitted by January 31, 2025, following the detailed guidelines shared during the workshop. The initiative underscores CHUSS's commitment to nurturing scholarly excellence and advancing research in the humanities.
Dr. Pamela Khanakwa Emphasizes the Importance of Context and Evidence in Humanities Research
Dr. Pamela Khanakwa, an expert in the field of Humanities, shared valuable insights on the necessity of historicizing research and understanding the context in which studies are conducted. Speaking to a group of students and researchers, Dr. Knakwa highlighted the importance of tracing the evolution of societal dynamics, particularly in the relationship between youth and authority, over time.
"In my study, I aim to explore how youth defiance has evolved over the years," said Dr. Knakwa. "Available evidence suggests that at one point, there was little hostility between youth and authority, but today we see an increasing trend of youth defiance. My work will trace these changes and the factors influencing this shift."
Dr. Khanakwa stressed the significance of grounding research in specific historical, social, and geographical contexts. "You cannot conduct a meaningful study without first understanding the context in which the events or behaviors you are studying unfolded," she said. She emphasized that research proposals must be clear, original, and feasible, with a well-defined scope that includes the time and place of study.
A key component of her approach is the importance of evidence in Humanities research. "In the Humanities, claims must be supported by concrete evidence," Dr. Knakwa stated. "Without evidence, your work becomes speculative and lacks substance."
Dr. Khanakwa also discussed the role of historical context in interpreting actions and responses. Using the example of youth defiance, she explained that one must consider how political, cultural, and historical factors shape societal behaviors. "To truly understand phenomena like cattle rustling or shifts in cultural practices, you need to understand the local context, as well as broader historical developments," she said.
Addressing the growing use of AI in research, Dr. Khanakwa cautioned that while AI can aid in gathering literature, it should not replace the critical, in-depth reading necessary for producing original research. "AI can help locate sources, but it cannot replace the intellectual engagement required to understand and analyze these sources," she warned.
Khanakwa emphasized the importance of presenting research that reflects changes over time and places the study within a broader historical context. "When historicizing an issue, it is crucial to highlight key moments of change," she said. "This allows your research to contribute to our understanding of societal evolution and the factors shaping current behaviors."
Dr. Amon Ashaba Mwiine on dos and donts of writing fellowship winning grant
Dr. Amon Ashaba Mwiine, shared on "The Dos and Don’ts of Writing a Fellowship-Winning Proposal," offering valuable advice to prospective Ph.D. candidates. His presentation covered crucial topics to help scholars navigate the fellowship application process, with a particular focus on crafting competitive proposals.
Dr. Mwiine highlighted the global need for clear handbooks and guidelines to aid doctoral candidates. He stressed the importance of evaluating one’s readiness for a Ph.D., including motivation and the availability of strong supervisory support. He cautioned against early attrition and delays, often caused by insufficient preparation, urging applicants to reflect on their readiness before embarking on doctoral studies.
One of the key points in Dr. Mwiine’s talk was the necessity of adhering to specific eligibility criteria, such as nationality, age, and academic background. He also emphasized securing strong academic references, as they play a crucial role in the selection process. Furthermore, Dr. Mwiine reminded attendees of the importance of following detailed instructions outlined in fellowship calls, ensuring every step is meticulously followed.
Dr. Mwiine shared expert advice on proposal writing, emphasizing adherence to institutional guidelines and developing a clear, innovative, and feasible research question. He stressed the importance of demonstrating both a solid knowledge of the field and originality, with the research’s relevance to both academic and societal contexts clearly articulated. A compelling proposal, he explained, is one that presents a fresh perspective while addressing significant issues.
In discussing the intellectual biography, Dr. Mwiine encouraged candidates to highlight their previous academic experiences and how they connect to their proposed research. Aligning the fellowship opportunity with both academic and career aspirations is crucial, he noted, as is demonstrating independence and the capacity for research.
Dr. Mwiine identified common mistakes that candidates often make, including submitting proposals last-minute or incomplete, ignoring specific submission guidelines (such as length, format, and specialization), and submitting forged or AI-generated content. These errors, he warned, can severely hinder one’s chances of success.
Offering additional guidance, Dr. Mwiine emphasized the value of collaborating with mentors and learning from the experiences of past fellowship winners. He also reminded students to be emotionally and intellectually prepared for the demanding Ph.D. journey. Conducting thorough research and remaining passionate about the proposed topic are also essential, he added.
Reflecting on his own experience, Dr. Mwiine shared insights from his journey in gender studies as a male student. His personal reflection highlighted how individual experiences can deeply inform academic inquiry, reinforcing the importance of authenticity and personal connection in scholarly research.
Dr. Mwiine concluded his presentation by encouraging all prospective Ph.D. applicants to approach the fellowship application process with determination, clarity, and passion. His practical advice and personal reflections provided a roadmap for those aspiring to win prestigious research fellowships.
Dr. Allen Asiimwe on Preparing a Strong Application Package
Dr. Allen Asiimwe provided further insights on crafting a competitive application. He reminded attendees that the success of an application often hinges on early preparation. He emphasized that applicants should not wait until the last minute to begin their applications. "A well-prepared application package can make the difference between success and rejection," he noted.
Dr. Asiimwe also focused on the importance of submitting a complete and certified application package. He stressed that the application form and supporting documents, including bio data and academic transcripts, must be clear, legible, and properly certified. "Everything should be planned early enough to avoid last-minute rushes," he said.
He also discussed the significance of crafting a thoughtful intellectual biography. He urged applicants to showcase their academic achievements, research experience, and relevant skills, emphasizing that the funder is looking for applicants who are a good fit for their program. "Your motivation letter should be concise, formal, and reflective of your passion for the topic," he advised.
Dr. Asiimwe also highlighted the importance of submitting strong letters of support. He advised applicants to notify their mentors early and ensure the letters are specific, detailed, and addressed properly. He cautioned against using generic language, which can undermine the application’s impact.
Finally, Dr. Asiimwe urged applicants to avoid typographical or formatting errors, and to ensure that all documents are clearly scanned and attached before submission. "Do not attempt to manipulate the structure or margins to fit more text," he cautioned. "It’s important to follow the guidelines exactly."
In conclusion, both Dr. Mwiine provided a comprehensive roadmap for crafting successful fellowship applications, emphasizing preparation, attention to detail, and a clear alignment between personal aspirations and the fellowship’s objectives.
Resty Naiga on CHUSS Application form and key issues
Naiga Resty, a Development and Organizational Studies expert, provided essential guidance on how to effectively complete the CHUSS fellowship application form. She emphasized that every section of the form is assigned marks, so it is vital to address each part carefully. Personal information, such as date of birth, residence, and academic qualifications, must be accurate and aligned with the proposed research, as this ensures the applicant’s academic background matches the study they are applying for.
Resty stressed the importance of a concise title for the application, advising that it should not exceed 15 words for clarity and precision. She further elaborated on the significance of the abstract, which must summarize the proposal in 150 words, highlighting the research problem, objectives, and methods. The abstract is critical as it provides a snapshot of the proposal and can either motivate the reviewer to explore further or deter them from considering the application.
She also advised applicants to demonstrate how their qualifications and prior experiences, including community outreach, are relevant to their proposed research. She cautioned against including irrelevant details, urging that everything presented in the application must support the research proposal’s feasibility. Resty also discussed the importance of being truthful in the publication section, where applicants must list relevant publications accurately and without exaggeration.
Regarding intellectual biographies, Resty emphasized that applicants should clearly outline their current academic standing and future goals, demonstrating how the PhD program will help them achieve those goals within the proposed five-year period. This section helps verify the applicant’s genuine interest in the program and ensures the PhD will add value to their career.
She also reminded applicants that the research proposal, which should not exceed five pages, must include a well-articulated problem statement informed by existing literature. Applicants should clearly highlight the value their research will add to current debates. Methodology is another critical section, carrying significant weight in the application process. Resty stressed that the chosen methods should directly relate to the research objectives and questions.
When it comes to letters of recommendation, Resty advised applicants to seek recommendations from individuals who can attest to their intellectual and academic abilities, preferably those who have taught them. She cautioned against using outdated or unsigned letters and emphasized that only recent, signed recommendations should be submitted.
Finally, she recommended that all supporting documents, including passport copies, academic qualifications, and recommendation letters, be compiled into a single document for submission. This reduces the risk of missing documents and ensures that the application is complete, as incomplete submissions will result in automatic disqualification. Resty concluded by urging applicants to pay close attention to every detail, including adhering to instructions on historicizing content, to strengthen their applications.
Lillian Mbabazi Shares Her PhD Journey: From Determination to Success
Lillian Mbabazi, a final-year PhD student in the Department of Performing Arts and Film at shared her inspiring journey to earning a Gelda Fellowship and pursuing a PhD in Applied Theatre. Mbabazi highlighted the importance of passion, dedication, and perseverance in the face of challenges.
"I applied in April 2022, after a 10-year gap since completing my Masters," Mbabazi said. "That gap made me feel like I had let myself down. Everyone around me believed I had potential, but I wasn't maximizing it."
Her journey was fueled by a conversation with a colleague, which reminded her of the persistent desire to pursue a PhD. "That conversation motivated me to push forward. I promised my department head that I would do it as part of my performance improvement plan," she shared.
Mbabazi emphasized the importance of reading the fellowship call thoroughly. "I read it multiple times and researched previous Gelda Fellows' projects. It helped me understand what the fellowship valued and what to focus on," she explained. Her research, focused on community agency in conserving intangible cultural heritage, was developed after consultations with colleagues and critical readers, including experts from both her field and beyond.
She stressed the importance of originality in academic work, encouraging aspiring scholars to conduct comprehensive literature reviews to ensure their research was new and relevant. "A PhD is about originality—what new thing can you contribute to the field? You can't know what's new unless you understand what's already out there," she said.
Mbabazi also spoke about the value of seeking feedback and collaborating with others. "Academic work is like giving birth. It’s a communal process, and you need support to bring your ideas to life," she stated, adding that the feedback she received from her critical readers significantly improved her work.
Despite facing logistical challenges, such as power outages during her final editing week, Mbabazi persevered. "I had a research project in Jinja, and when the power went out, I had to change hotels. It was stressful, but I kept pushing," she recounted. She ultimately submitted her application two hours before the deadline.
Reflecting on the importance of recommenders, Mbabazi emphasized the need to keep them informed and aligned with the goals of the application. "Share detailed information with your recommenders and set personal deadlines to ensure everything is submitted on time," she advised.
Mbabazi shared two motivational quotes. The first, by American author Augustine Mandino, reminds individuals of the power of determination: "Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough." The second, by Henry Ford, offers a message of resilience: "Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently."
Mbabazi’s journey serves as a testament to the power of persistence and commitment, inspiring fellow students to stay driven, no matter the obstacles. "It is never too late to pursue your dreams," she concluded.
Scholarship Recipient Eugenio Njolomo Reflects on Successful PhD Journey at Makerere University
Eugenio Njoloma, a recipient of a PhD scholarship, shared insights into his academic journey, highlighting the discipline and dedication that led to his success. Speaking candidly, Njoloma revealed the key factors that helped him navigate the challenging path toward completing his PhD.
Njoloma, who secured the scholarship in 2021, recalled the importance of adhering to the program’s timelines. “The almanac that the program provides is a crucial guide, outlining everything from conference attendance to journal writing,” he said. “If you don't follow it, you won’t succeed.” He also emphasized the necessity of setting personal deadlines in collaboration with supervisors to ensure timely progress. “For example, my supervisor gave me a task with a strict timeline, and I made sure to meet it,” Njoloma recalled.
An essential part of his success was accepting the realities of the program and the limited resources. “When I came to Makerere, I already had another scholarship offer in China, but I chose Makerere because I wanted to focus on my PhD and the subject I am passionate about,” he explained. Despite not receiving lavish benefits, Njoloma was determined to make the most of the opportunity.
He attributed much of his success to discipline, which he described as a vital component of his journey. “I accepted my situation and worked extremely hard,” he said. “I spent long hours in the library, focused on my studies, and never let distractions, such as social media, interfere with my goals.” Njoloma also made a point of being respectful and attentive to his supervisors, noting that listening to their guidance helped him stay on track.
Dr. Abdul Mahajubu experience
Dr. Abdul Mahajubu shared his inspiring journey toward earning a Ph.D. acknowledging the support from Makerere University, particularly the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, and the Department of History, Archaeology, and Heritage Studies. He emphasized the importance of surrounding oneself with inspiring individuals who can identify potential even when one is unaware of it. His Ph.D. journey, which spanned from 2017 to 2021, was fueled by his initial interest in the Nubi community, which lacked a written history and was marginalized politically.
Dr. Mahajubu’s process was methodical and ambitious. He successfully navigated the milestones of proposal writing, data collection, and dissertation defense. His proposal was defended in nine months, data was collected and analyzed systematically with the support of his supervisors, and he engaged in academic and professional development throughout. His dissertation, focusing on ethnicity and identity politics, was drafted in multiple stages, and feedback was crucial in refining his work.
The key takeaway from his experience was the importance of taking action in the present. He advised the audience not to wait for the "right time" but to act now and surround oneself with people who encourage and support academic growth. His supervisor, Dr. Pamela, was mentioned as a continual source of motivation, providing guidance and affirming his progress. Dr. Majumd closed with gratitude for those who contributed to his success and urged others to follow a similar path of determination and support.