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Key Skills
- Expertise in Animal Science: Prof. Kugonza possesses deep knowledge in animal breeding, genetics, agriculture, and apiculture, evidenced by his academic qualifications and teaching roles.
- Research Skills: He has a strong background in conducting significant research, particularly in the conservation and improvement of African Animal Genetic Resources. His involvement in numerous research projects and grants showcases his research prowess.
- Academic Leadership: As an Associate and Adjunct Professor, Prof. Kugonza has demonstrated leadership in academic settings, guiding students and fellow researchers in the field of animal science.
- Program Coordination: His role in coordinating the Service Learning Internship Program highlights his skills in managing and overseeing collaborative educational programs.
- Strategic Management: His position as chairperson and member of various national and regional boards and committees illustrates his ability in strategic planning and management in different organizational contexts.
- International Collaboration and Networking: Prof. Kugonza’s work involves collaboration with international bodies, showcasing his ability to work effectively across different cultures and geographical boundaries.
- Mentorship and Teaching: With over two decades of teaching experience, he has honed his skills in mentoring and educating students from diverse backgrounds.
- Editorial and Reviewing Expertise: His editorial roles in scientific journals and as a reviewer for high-impact journals reflect his critical analysis and quality assurance skills in academic publishing.
- Policy Contribution: His involvement in agricultural policy development in East and Central Africa points to his skills in policy analysis and advisory.
- Community Engagement: Prof. Kugonza’s work with various community-based programs demonstrates his commitment to applying scientific knowledge for practical and societal benefits.
- Award-Winning Research: His numerous awards and recognitions highlight his skill in conducting impactful research that contributes to the field and society.
- Communication Skills: As a prolific author and presenter at international conferences, Prof. Kugonza possesses strong oral and written communication skills.
- Project Management: His ability to secure and manage various research grants indicates strong project management skills.
- Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Engaging in various research groups and centers, he has shown the ability to work across different scientific disciplines.
Profile
Introduction Prof. Donald Rugira Kugonza Akiiki is a distinguished Animal Scientist, holding multiple degrees from Makerere University, including a BSc in Agriculture (1997), M.Sc. in Agriculture (Animal Science) (2003), and a PhD in Animal Breeding and Genetics (2010). He also earned a first-class Master of Business Administration (MBA) summa cum laude from Amity Business School in 2016. Currently, he serves as an Associate Professor at Makerere University, teaching animal breeding, genetics, animal agriculture, and apiculture. He is also an Adjunct Professor of BioSciences at Chandigarh University, India.
Career and Research Prof. Kugonza coordinates the Service Learning Internship Program, a 15-year collaboration between Makerere University and Iowa State University, USA. His research primarily focuses on the conservation and performance improvement of African Animal Genetic Resources. He has chaired and advised numerous national and regional organizations, including the National Livestock Resources Research Institute (NaLIRRI) and the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) Technical Committee on Apiculture & Apiculture Products.
As President of the Association of Uganda Professional Agriculturalists (ASUPA), he is involved in various African Union and international advisory groups. An assiduous editor and reviewer for high-impact journals, he has received numerous awards for his research, impacting livelihoods and knowledge creation. Prof. Kugonza has been active in international engagements for over 26 years.
Biography Prof. Kugonza describes himself as a passionate animal scientist, science mentor, and change agent. He boasts over 20 years of teaching experience and has been involved in collaborative research, securing 30 grants. A prolific author, he has published extensively in his field, including 3 books, 14 book chapters, and numerous journal and conference papers. He is known for his work in livestock breeding, genetics, and apiculture, contributing significantly to agricultural policy in East and Central Africa.
Community and Awards In the community, Prof. Kugonza has been instrumental in various programs, including the Pig Artificial Insemination program and providing training and advice to farmers. He has also been recognized with several awards and fellowships, acknowledging his contributions to agricultural research and policy.
Teaching and Research Prof. Kugonza is involved in teaching various agricultural courses at Makerere University. His research projects span multiple areas, including livestock genetics and productivity, with funding from diverse sources like the Sustainable Development Goals Fund and the Austrian Development Cooperation.
Affiliations and Memberships He holds memberships in numerous academic and professional bodies, including the Uganda National Academy of Sciences, the African Technology and Innovation Incubators Advisory Committee, and others. Prof. Kugonza is a founding member of several organizations and has played pivotal roles in various advisory groups and committees.
Conclusion Prof. Donald Rugira Kugonza Akiiki's career is marked by significant achievements in animal science research, teaching, and community engagement. His work has had a considerable impact on agricultural practices and policies, not just in Uganda but across the African continent