MLI@10: Empowering Students Through Lung Health Mentorship and Innovation

As part of the Makerere University College of Health Sciences (MakCHS) Centenary Celebrations and the flagship activities for MLI@10, the Makerere University Lung Institute (MLI) held a Student Mentorship Programme aimed at inspiring and nurturing the next generation of lung health leaders.

The programme brought together students from Makerere University and early-career researchers for interactive learning, career guidance, and exposure to real-world scientific and clinical practice. Participants engaged with established researchers, clinicians, and industry experts who shared insights on research excellence, medical innovation, leadership, and navigating career pathways in lung health and public health.

Through keynote talks, panel discussions, skill-building sessions, and mentorship interactions, students gained:

Practical guidance on research design, publishing, and academic growth, Inspiration from role models who have significantly advanced lung science in Uganda and globally, Broader understanding of lung disease burden, emerging research opportunities, and the role of young scientists in strengthening health systems

The Mentorship Programme reinforced MLI’s commitment to capacity building and developing human resources for lung health research and clinical excellence, while also contributing meaningfully to the historic MakCHS Centenary milestone.