Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR)

Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR) MISR is a centre of excellence in multidisciplinary research that aims to improve academic knowledge It cannot do this alone.

The Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR) has had a proud existence since its establishment in 1948. The secret of this pride has been its ability to change with the times, at times to muster the courage to defy scholarly convention, often to be at the cutting edge of change at Makerere University. Established as more or less the research arm of the colonial state, MISR was led by illustrio

us anthropologists (Audrey I. Richards, Lloyd Fallers) who saw themselves as giving voice to ‘native peoples’ inside an otherwise hostile colonial establishment. On the morrow of independence, MISR was fortunate to be steered by young nationalist scholars (Ali Mazrui, Victor Uchendu, Yash Tandon) who saw themselves both as pioneers of an emancipatory nationalist scholarship and as critics of nationalism’s anti-liberal tendencies, especially when these tended to undermine the autonomy of the scholar. When the times were difficult, MISR found prudent directors (Samwiri Karugire, Dan Mudoola) who understood that the most important goal under the circumstances may be survival. When MISR and Makerere University came under severe pressure from those who shelter under the banner of ‘market forces’, MISR found a director (Nakanyike Musisi) who endeavoured to turn the situation to institutional advantage. Today, MISR takes a critical look at how it has been shaped by this legacy, in particular the impact of ‘market forces’ over the past decade. In the face of a growing and pervasive culture of consultancy, MISR recommits itself to its original vocation, social research. To build a sustainable research culture MISR must join hands with others, starting with the different Faculties that contribute to the study of society at Makerere. We at MISR can only hope that such a commitment will be within our grasp. We invite all those who share this commitment, from near and far, to come and join in this endeavor, whether on the ground or on the web, so we may together forge new if uncertain futures. In the interest of that joint endeavour and shared reflection, we hope to bring to life a buzz of activities, from internet discussions to printed materials, ranging from working papers to workshops, journals to books. Using methods from the unconventional to the orthodox, we hope to create a market place of ideas, an arena of debate. To borrow a different metaphor from another era, let a hundred flowers bloom, let a hundred schools of thought contend!

Call for Abstract: MISR Graduate Students' Conference.Submit your abstracts (max 300 words)See poster for details!
30/04/2026

Call for Abstract: MISR Graduate Students' Conference.

Submit your abstracts (max 300 words)
See poster for details!

Invitation: MISR Open Day – Saturday, May 2, 2026
28/04/2026

Invitation: MISR Open Day – Saturday, May 2, 2026

MISR MPHIL/PH.D Applications Open
14/04/2026

MISR MPHIL/PH.D Applications Open

Wednesday seminar coming up soon
18/02/2026

Wednesday seminar coming up soon

Call for Applications,
15/10/2025

Call for Applications,

Join us
30/06/2025

Join us

🚨 Mark your calendar!Another insightful seminar is coming your way —🗓️ Wednesday, June 25th🕑 2:00 PMDon’t miss it...
20/06/2025

🚨 Mark your calendar!
Another insightful seminar is coming your way —
🗓️ Wednesday, June 25th
🕑 2:00 PM
Don’t miss it...

11/06/2025

Dear Colleagues,



This is a kind reminder to join us for a seminar taking place today, Wednesday, June 11, 2025 starting at 2:00PM to 5:00PM.

Title: "Captive Maternals" and the Modern Subject of Gendered Violence

Presenter: Prof. Lyn Ossome, Director, MISR.

Discussants: Dr. Andrea Cassatella, Senior Research Fellow

Dr. Yosef Sintayehu Jemberie, Postdoctoral fellow, MISR

Date: Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Time: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Venue: MISR Seminar Room 1



Hard copies of the paper are available for collection at the MISR Library ahead of the session.

We look forward to your presence and active participation.

04/06/2025
21/05/2025

invites applications for the MPhil/Ph.D. 2026 class. Apply from-apply.mak.ac.ug. Deadline: 30-5-2025. For more information visit: misr.mak.ac.ug. Once you have completed your application, email: [email protected]. All the best!

07/04/2025

Big things are happening at Makerere this week. The Research and Innovations Week kicks off tomorrow 8th April 2025 at the Freedom Square ... and you won’t want to miss it.

The Vice Chancellor, Professor gives us a sneak peek into what’s coming... think groundbreaking discoveries, fresh ideas, and exciting chances for students, researchers, and industry movers to connect and shine.

Address

Makerere University Main Gate, University Road
Kampala

Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 17:00
Thursday 08:00 - 17:00
Friday 08:00 - 17:00

Telephone

+256415328308

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR) posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The University

Send a message to Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR):

Shortcuts

Share

Category