Makerere University proudly celebrates the recognition of Mr. Mordecai Tayebwa, Senior Grants Manager, Makerere University Lung Institute and Ms. Bonny Tusiime, Grants and Contracts Officer, Makerere University College of Health of Sciences (MakCHS) as recipients of the prestigious Future of the Field Award of Society of Research Administrators International (SRAI), an international recognition that Honors emerging leaders making outstanding contributions to the advancement of research administration. This year’s ‘Future of the Field’ honorees were formally recognized at SRAI’s Annual Meeting held in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA in October, 2026.
The Future of the Field Award recognizes professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to strengthening research management and administration. The award celebrates individuals whose work is shaping the future of the profession by improving research support systems, fostering collaboration, and advancing excellence in research administration.
At Makerere University, Mr. Tayebwa and Ms. Tusiime have played key roles in strengthening grants and contracts management, supporting researchers throughout the grant lifecycle, promoting compliance with sponsor requirements, and contributing to the development of sustainable research management systems. Their efforts have enhanced institutional capacity to attract, manage, and administer competitive research funding while ensuring accountability and excellence. Commenting on the recognition, the award recipients expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the growth of research administration. "This recognition reflects not only our individual efforts but also the collaborative environment at MakCHS and Makerere University. It inspires us to continue strengthening research administration and supporting researchers in generating impactful scientific discoveries that improve lives." They said.
The achievement highlights the growing international recognition of research administration professionals in Africa and underscores Makerere University and MakCHS's general commitment to building strong research support systems that enable world-class research. This also reflects the institution's investment in professional development and its dedication to advancing research excellence through effective grants management.
Commenting on the award, Dara C. Little, President, (SRAI) said “In a field as dynamic and rapidly evolving as research administration, the need for visionary,adaptable leaders have never been greater,” . “SRAI’s Future of the Field recipients represent the next generation of changemakers – those who will not only navigate complexity but shape the future of our profession. To embrace change, is to lead your innovation, resilience, and leadership are exactly what this moment demands. Rise to the opportunity and you will do great things!”
Makerere University congratulates Mr. Mordecai Tayebwa and Ms. Bonny Tusiime on this significant achievement and wishes them continued success as they contribute to shaping the future of research administration both regionally and globally
