01 — The Partnership
SWAU Partners with Makerere University
The Songwriters Association of Uganda, under President John Kay, conducted a landmark session at Makerere University's School of Liberal and Performing Arts — planting the craft of songwriting firmly inside academia.
Moments from the session
SWAU Partners with Makerere University to Empower Future Songwriters
The Songwriters Association of Uganda (SWAU), under the leadership of its President, John Kay, recently conducted a successful partnership session at Makerere University's School of Liberal and Performing Arts. This initiative is part of SWAU's ongoing mission to promote songwriting as a professional craft and strengthen its relevance within academic spaces.
The session brought together experienced songwriters including Yese Oman Rafik, Ray Signature, Zulanda, and Whytecollar, who shared practical insights into songwriting, creativity, and the business of music. Students engaged in an interactive learning experience that covered key topics such as copyright, intellectual property, and revenue opportunities for songwriters.
The collaboration was warmly received by the university, with lead lecturer Pamela Mbabazi emphasizing the importance of building strong songwriter profiles and integrating industry standards into academic training. She also highlighted the need for continued partnerships to enhance skills development and professional recognition.
This engagement marks an important step in bridging the gap between academia and the music industry. SWAU remains committed to expanding such partnerships across institutions, nurturing talent, and contributing to the growth and professionalization of Uganda's music ecosystem.