NIH-Supported MakNCD Program at Makerere University Invites Master’s Applications for 2026

Makerere University, through its Non-Communicable Diseases Research Training Program (MakNCD), has officially announced a call for applications for Master’s level training for the 2026 academic cycle. The application deadline is Monday, 23 February 2026, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The opportunity targets motivated graduates seeking advanced training in public health, health systems leadership, and non-communicable disease (NCD) research in Uganda and the wider sub-Saharan Africa region.

Building Africa’s Capacity to Tackle Non-Communicable Diseases

Non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory conditions are now among the leading causes of illness and death across low- and middle-income countries. In response to this growing challenge, Makerere University established the MakNCD Research Training Program to strengthen local research capacity, leadership, and evidence-based decision-making.

MakNCD is a multidisciplinary research and capacity-building initiative based at the Makerere University College of Health Sciences, with collaboration from Johns Hopkins University and funding support from the United States National Institutes of Health (NIH) Fogarty International Center under the D43 mechanism.

The program focuses on developing skilled professionals who can translate research into policy, strengthen health systems, and improve NCD prevention and management.

Also Read: Makerere University Announces Fully Funded PhD Fellowships in Non-Communicable Disease Research (MAKNCD Program)

Master’s Training Opportunities Available (2026)

MakNCD is inviting applications for full-time Master’s level training in the following disciplines at Makerere University:

• Master of Public Health (MPH)

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

• Master of Public Health – Monitoring and Evaluation

These programs are designed for candidates interested in combining academic training with applied research and leadership development in non-communicable diseases.

What the MakNCD Training Focuses On

Successful candidates will be expected to engage in coursework and research aligned with national and regional NCD priorities. Key focus areas include:

• Health systems strengthening

• Monitoring and evaluation of NCD programs

• Health policy and management

• Implementation science

• Leadership and program management in public health

Each scholar will develop a Master’s research project that contributes to improved NCD policy, program design, service delivery, or outcomes monitoring.

In addition to academic training, participants will take part in MakNCD seminars, mentorship activities, and structured research capacity-building initiatives.

Scholarship and Training Support

Selected candidates will receive MakNCD-supported training, which may include:

• Tuition support and/or partial financial assistance (subject to availability)

• Structured research mentorship and academic supervision

• Access to national and international NCD research networks

• Professional development and leadership-focused activities

The training is full-time and aligned with the standard duration of the selected Master’s program, up to two years.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

• A relevant Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution

• Demonstrated interest in non-communicable diseases and health systems research

• Admission to, or an application in progress for, a relevant Master’s program at Makerere University

• Strong academic performance and clear motivation for research and leadership in NCDs

MakNCD is an equal opportunity program and strongly encourages applications from women and individuals from underrepresented groups.

Application Procedure

Interested candidates should submit the following documents electronically as a single application package:

1. A 2–3 page concept note describing the proposed Master’s research topic related to non-communicable diseases

2. NIH Biosketch or Curriculum Vitae (maximum 4 pages)

3. Contact details of two academic or professional referees

Recommended Email Subject Line

APPLICATION – Doctoral Scholarship – MakNCD (MSc)

Recommended File Naming Format

LastName_FirstName_DocumentName
(Example: Batte_Charles_CV.pdf)

Application Deadline and Contact Details

📅 Application Deadline: Monday, 23 February 2026
📧 Submission Email: [email protected]

Applications should be addressed to:

The MakNCD Program Principal Investigator
Makerere University College of Health Sciences

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Why This Opportunity Matters

As non-communicable diseases continue to rise across Africa, the need for locally trained researchers, program managers, and policy leaders has never been greater. The MakNCD Master’s training opportunity offers more than a degree—it provides mentorship, research exposure, and professional networks that position graduates to influence public health practice and policy.

For graduates seeking meaningful, research-driven careers in public health and health systems leadership, MakNCD at Makerere University stands out as a credible and high-impact pathway in 2026.

For more opportunities, click here.