Partnership highlights Hampton’s esteemed international relations
Hampton, VA – Hampton University’s School of Pharmacy is strengthening its global reach through a transformative partnership with Makerere University School of Pharmacy in Uganda. This collaboration aims to enhance pharmaceutical education, research, and healthcare initiatives, furthering Hampton’s mission of academic excellence and community service on an international scale.
Dr. Elizabeth Heard, an assistant professor and key representative of the School of Pharmacy, was introduced to Ivan Santiago Awuzu, a pharmacy student at Makerere University School of Pharmacy, during her post-doctoral fellowship. The two quickly formed a connection, and Dr. Heard promised that the next time she visited Uganda, she would stop by his school. She fulfilled that promise the very next summer, and from that visit, a meaningful partnership between Hampton University and Makerere University School of Pharmacy began to take shape.
A key aspect of this growing partnership is the interactive learning sessions between Hampton and Makerere University students. A recent virtual workshop brought together Dr. Benjamin Mwesige, an Oncology Professor at Makerere University and the Co-founder of the Uganda Cancer Institute, School of Pharmacy faculty members Dr. Annette Owili, and Dr. Elizabeth Heard, nine Makerere University Students, and seven Hampton University pharmacy students.
The session was a dynamic exchange of knowledge, with students demonstrating strong engagement and enthusiasm for continued collaboration.
During a visit to Uganda in October, Dr. Heard met with Makerere University students, faculty, and healthcare professionals to explore opportunities for further collaboration. The visit included discussions on curriculum development, student engagement, and clinical training programs aimed at improving patient care.
“Engaging with students and faculty in Uganda has reinforced the importance of shared knowledge and innovative solutions in addressing critical health challenges. Hampton is positioning itself for impactful research and clinical training that’ll benefit communities worldwide,” said Dr. Heard
As part of her trip, Dr. Heard also interacted with Dr. Mwesige, Co-founder and Director of Pharmacy at the Uganda Cancer Institute, who provided an in-depth tour of the hospital’s facilities, showcasing opportunities for joint research and clinical training.
“This collaboration with Makerere University reflects Hampton University’s dedication to expanding the impact of pharmaceutical education and research,” said Dr. Anand Iyer, Dean of Hampton’s School of Pharmacy.
To continue this relationship, Dr. Heard hopes to launch a 5-week international clinical rotation in Uganda for Hampton University pharmacy students during their fourth year and states that Hampton University and Makerere University School of Pharmacy are also planning a virtual research conference for students from both institutions in the near future.
Working alongside Makerere University and the Uganda Cancer Institute, Hampton University’s School of Pharmacy aims to create impactful educational and healthcare advancements that benefit communities both locally and internationally.
About Hampton University
Hampton University is a Carnegie R2-designated research institution, recognized for its groundbreaking research in atmospheric science, cancer treatment, and cybersecurity. Contributing $530 million annually to the regional and Commonwealth of Virginia economies, Hampton plays a vital role in driving economic development while championing diversity, inclusion, and opportunity. The university was recently named one of the “Best Colleges in America” by Money Magazine and recognized as the “Best Private College” by Coastal Virginia.
Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a close-knit community of learners and educators representing 44 states and 32 territories, committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship. For more information, visit www.hamptonu.edu.
For media inquiries regarding Hampton University, please contact Mahogany Waldon in the Office of University Relations 757-727-5253.
