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Office of the Director Internal Audit

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Internal Audit authority and mandate is derived from Makerere University Council. Its functions, activities and operations are defined in an audit charter. The University Council by policy establishes and supports Internal Audit as an independent appraisal function to examine and evaluate University activities/operations as a service to management and Council of Makerere University.

Audit reporting

The Director Internal Audit reports functionally to the Audit Committee of Council and administratively to the Vice-Chancellor.

Profile

Mr. Charles Barugahare holds a masters degree from Eastern and Southern Africa Management Institute (ESAMI), Fellow Chartered Certified Accountant (FCCA) and Bachelors Degree from Makerere University. He has auditing and accounting experience as Chief Internal Auditor, Senior Auditor, internal Auditor and Accountant /Administrator.

The Directorate

Staffing of the Directorate can be broken down into four main categories as;

1. AUDIT MANAGERS
Roles: Responsible for assisting in setting Audit plans and strategies, Risks and controls, Audit execution, Audit reporting and Follow ups.

2. SENIOR INTERNAL AUDITORS
Roles: To provide technical support and carry out routine internal Audit management supervision, review of technical aspects and monitoring of day today progress of internal Audit activities.

3. INTERNAL AUDITORS
Roles:To conduct Internal Audit engagements in accordance with laid down regulations and guidelines. Audit engagements covering testing of controls, reviewing risk exposures, evaluation of changes in systems and controls, development of working papers and report writing.

4. AUDIT ASSISTANTS
Role: To support Audit exercises and reviews

The Internal Audit function

Internal auditing is an objective assurance and consulting activity designed to add value and improve university systems, processes and controls. It is independent of any management functions or Officers and has access through the Audit Committee to the Chairperson of the University Council if required.
Vision: To be a leader in the provision of objective assurance and consulting services designed to add value and improve operations to assure the efficiency and success of Makerere University.
Mission: To add value to overall organisational performance by providing quality auditing services that result in reduced costs, gains in operational efficiencies and strengthened internal controls.

Objectives

  1. Review and assess the functioning of systems, processes and controls.
  2. Identify, assess and evaluate risks affecting achieving University objectives.
  3. Appraise the economy and efficiency with which resources are allocated and utilised
  4. Review compliance with applicable policies, plans, procedures, laws and regulations.
  5. Coordinate with External Auditors in the areas above.
  6. To recruit, develop and retain well qualified experienced and motivated audit staff.

The extent and frequency of audits depends upon varying circumstances such as results of previous audits, relative risks associated with activities, requests from Management and Council and resources availability.

Access to information

  • Access at all reasonable times to all books, documents, accounts, property, vouchers, records, correspondence and other data of Makerere University necessary for the proper performance of the Internal Audit function; and
  • The right at reasonable times to enter any premises of the University and to request any officer to furnish all information and such explanations deemed necessary to form an opinion on functioning of systems, controls and procedures.
  • It is incumbent upon all university staff to provide all information and explanations that may be required.

Critical elements for a successful audit function

  1. Auditing personnel must have an in depth knowledge of standard practices in the areas under review.
  2. Auditing personnel must have access to all necessary data to form conclusions about the area under review.
  3. Auditing personnel must be aware of explicit guidelines in the area under review as well as the specific communications to those being audited.
  4. Personnel being audited must be provided a detailed review of the conclusions of any audit and be given an opportunity to appeal any disagreements to a party other than that conducting the audit.
  5. Institutional personnel must have faith in the integrity of the audit and of the officials directing the audit.

Current and future audit priorities

  1. Recruit, develop, and retain well qualified and experienced audit staff
  2. Develop an exit strategy to phase out of pre-auditing
  3. Conduct risk assessment to identify and then prioritize areas for audit emphasis.
  4. Acquire audit software to support review of systems and processes

Contact information

More information from the Directorate of Internal Audit can be obtained from the;

Director Internal Audit: Mr. Charles Barugahare
Makerere University- Main Building, Top floor
P.O Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 414 532475
Email: audit[at]ia.mak.ac.ug or cbarugahare[at]ia.mak.ac.ug

 

Internal Audit authority and mandate is derived from Makerere University Council. Its functions, activities and operations are defined in an audit charter. The University Council by policy establishes and supports Internal Audit as an independent appraisal function to examine and evaluate University activities/operations as a service to management and Council of Makerere University.

Audit reporting

The Director Internal Audit reports functionally to the Audit Committee of Council and administratively to the Vice-Chancellor.

Profile

Mr. Charles Barugahare holds a masters degree from Eastern and Southern Africa Management Institute (ESAMI), Fellow Chartered Certified Accountant (FCCA) and Bachelors Degree from Makerere University. He has auditing and accounting experience as Chief Internal Auditor, Senior Auditor, internal Auditor and Accountant /Administrator.

The Directorate

Staffing of the Directorate can be broken down into four main categories as;

1. AUDIT MANAGERS
Roles: Responsible for assisting in setting Audit plans and strategies, Risks and controls, Audit execution, Audit reporting and Follow ups.

2. SENIOR INTERNAL AUDITORS
Roles: To provide technical support and carry out routine internal Audit management supervision, review of technical aspects and monitoring of day today progress of internal Audit activities.

3. INTERNAL AUDITORS
Roles:To conduct Internal Audit engagements in accordance with laid down regulations and guidelines. Audit engagements covering testing of controls, reviewing risk exposures, evaluation of changes in systems and controls, development of working papers and report writing.

4. AUDIT ASSISTANTS
Role: To support Audit exercises and reviews

The Internal Audit function

Internal auditing is an objective assurance and consulting activity designed to add value and improve university systems, processes and controls. It is independent of any management functions or Officers and has access through the Audit Committee to the Chairperson of the University Council if required.
Vision: To be a leader in the provision of objective assurance and consulting services designed to add value and improve operations to assure the efficiency and success of Makerere University.
Mission: To add value to overall organisational performance by providing quality auditing services that result in reduced costs, gains in operational efficiencies and strengthened internal controls.

Objectives

  1. Review and assess the functioning of systems, processes and controls.
  2. Identify, assess and evaluate risks affecting achieving University objectives.
  3. Appraise the economy and efficiency with which resources are allocated and utilised
  4. Review compliance with applicable policies, plans, procedures, laws and regulations.
  5. Coordinate with External Auditors in the areas above.
  6. To recruit, develop and retain well qualified experienced and motivated audit staff.

The extent and frequency of audits depends upon varying circumstances such as results of previous audits, relative risks associated with activities, requests from Management and Council and resources availability.

Access to information

  • Access at all reasonable times to all books, documents, accounts, property, vouchers, records, correspondence and other data of Makerere University necessary for the proper performance of the Internal Audit function; and
  • The right at reasonable times to enter any premises of the University and to request any officer to furnish all information and such explanations deemed necessary to form an opinion on functioning of systems, controls and procedures.
  • It is incumbent upon all university staff to provide all information and explanations that may be required.

Critical elements for a successful audit function

  1. Auditing personnel must have an in depth knowledge of standard practices in the areas under review.
  2. Auditing personnel must have access to all necessary data to form conclusions about the area under review.
  3. Auditing personnel must be aware of explicit guidelines in the area under review as well as the specific communications to those being audited.
  4. Personnel being audited must be provided a detailed review of the conclusions of any audit and be given an opportunity to appeal any disagreements to a party other than that conducting the audit.
  5. Institutional personnel must have faith in the integrity of the audit and of the officials directing the audit.

Current and future audit priorities

  1. Recruit, develop, and retain well qualified and experienced audit staff
  2. Develop an exit strategy to phase out of pre-auditing
  3. Conduct risk assessment to identify and then prioritize areas for audit emphasis.
  4. Acquire audit software to support review of systems and processes

Contact information

More information from the Directorate of Internal Audit can be obtained from the;

Director Internal Audit: Mr. Charles Barugahare
Makerere University- Main Building, Top floor
P.O Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 414 532475
Email: audit[at]ia.mak.ac.ug or cbarugahare[at]ia.mak.ac.ug

 

Denis Wamala

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Master’s Scholarship Opportunities: Call For Applications – Faculty Initiated Ideas

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A hands-on session in the Biomedical Engineering Unit Lab. College of Health Sciences (CHS), New Mulago Complex, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Biomedical Engineering Unit, Department of Physiology at Makerere University College of Health Sciences (MakCHS), Uganda in conjunction with Case Western Reserve University, USA received a grant from the U.S. NIH – Fogarty International Center to train Ugandans in Biomedical Engineering (BME). This program’s main aim is to build capacity for medical technology innovation and develop human capacity interested in research in Biomedical Engineering.

As such, this program is currently soliciting for applications from suitably qualified Ugandans for Scholarships that will lead to the award of Engineering or closely related degree. MSc students from these programs at Makerere University are highly encouraged to apply: Technology Innovation and Industrial Development from College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Computer Science (CoCIS) and Immunology and Clinical Microbiology, Masters of Health informatics, Master of Bioinformatics (CHS) but also open to closely related degrees. Funding for tuition, stipend and research costs will be available for a maximum of one academic year (Masters of Science).

A modest monthly stipend and reasonable research funds will be provided. Students are required to pick up to 2 topics those in the table (see downloads) indicating good reasons for the choice. The candidates should strictly limit their application to these preselected projects.

Selection Criteria:

  1. Minimum qualifications: Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in an in Engineering or Health-related field from a recognized university
  2. Projects only limited to the preselected ones- the candidate will then develop a MSc concept/proposal based on these
  3. Technology focus of biomaterials and drug delivery, point-of-care diagnostics, biomedical imaging, and data analytics and artificial intelligence.
  4. Evidence of good performance in year one of MSc program is a requirement
  5. Applicants should be ready and willing to undergo oral interviews

Submit only the following documents as a single PDF file to sightproject2022@gmail.com and indicate in the subject “Scholarship MSc Application 2025”.

  • Certified copies of relevant academic documents
  • Two reference letters
  • Statement of motivation (not more than 500 words)
  • A brief CV of not more than four (4) pages.

Application Deadline: 30th May, 2025
Interview date: 6th June, 2025
Notification date: 13th June, 2025

For clarifications contact: Ms. Basemera Joanittah Tel: 0701925906/0774572385 Email: birungijoanah@gmail.com

Mak Editor

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Uphold Makerere and Mastercard Foundation values during this Holiday

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Prof. Justine Namaalwa addresses Scholars during the family day event on 19th May 2025. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Program Director for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, Prof Justine Namaalwa, has urged Scholars to uphold Makerere and Mastercard Foundation values during the holiday period.

Speaking at the family day event held on Monday, May 19, 2025 at the Rugby grounds at Makerere University, Prof Namaalwa emphasized the importance of integrity, responsibility and community engagement, encouraging Scholars to be ambassadors of positive change even while away from campus.

“As you return to your homes and countries, I encourage you to volunteer your time and data to support prospective applicants for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, as the application process is online. You will feel fulfilled when someone you supported earns the scholarship. Do not ask for a single coin just offer your help and proudly uphold the Makerere flag.” Prof. Namaalwa, noted.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa enjoys a fun moment with teams that took part in the sack race. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa enjoys a fun moment with teams that took part in the sack race.

In her speech, Prof. Namaalwa also challenged Scholars to lead, serve, and uplift their communities, emphasizing the need to make transformational leadership a lived reality. She called upon Scholars to engage in community-based learning activities during the holiday period, initiatives that align with their academic programs or personal passions as a way of applying their knowledge and values in meaningful, practical ways.

“When you go back for the holidays, identify a problem in your community that relates to your degree program. It could be an issue like poor sanitation or low immunization rates among children under five. Document the problem and think critically about possible solutions bearing in mind that the issue you choose should inspire an academic research project, an entrepreneurial initiative, or a social venture idea.” Prof.Justine Namaalwa said.

 Themed  ‘Building and Strengthening Our Bonds’ the Family Day event brought together over 100 Scholars, mentors, and members of the Program Implementation Team of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University. The day was marked by interactive games, storytelling, and meaningful engagement, all aimed at fostering connection, collaboration, and a strong sense of community within the Program.

Participants engage in aerobics. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants engage in aerobics.

The day kicked off with a lively aerobics session, setting an energetic tone for the activities ahead. Scholars then participated in a variety of fun and engaging activities including sack races, running competitions, and puzzle challenges. These activities fostered teamwork and excitement, with several Scholars and their family groups walking away with gifts and tokens of appreciation for their participation and enthusiasm.

During the event, Dr. Rodney Rugyema, the Acting Dean of Students, commended the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University for its impactful role in uplifting young people. He highlighted the value of initiatives such as counselling, mentorship, and entrepreneurship support, noting that these programs are instrumental in shaping well-rounded, empowered future leaders.

Dr. Rugyema also took the opportunity to counsel Scholars on responsibility and focus, urging them to avoid engaging in sexual relationships before completing their studies.

Dr. Rodney Rugyema. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Rodney Rugyema.

“You left home to change home. Do not forget the goal. Be responsible. Avoid engaging in sexual activities that may lead to unintended responsibilities. During the holidays, learn a skill, be productive, or plant trees. Save the environment and be part of the change.”

In his remarks, Derrick Asiimwe, President of the Scholars Association at Makerere University, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Program Implementation Team for their unwavering support. He thanked them for grooming Scholars into leaders, offering comfort during challenging times, and treating them with the care and concern of a parent. His words reflected the deep sense of gratitude and belonging felt by Scholars within the Program.

Derrick Asiimwe. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Derrick Asiimwe.

 “It can’t go without mention that you have really loved and disciplined us. You are the true definition of Mathew 19:14 where Jesus said let the children come and not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to us,” Asiimwe, said. The vibrant day came to a close with members of the Shalom family emerging as overall winners, proudly walking away with the trophy a testament to their teamwork, spirit, and active participation throughout the event.

More highlights from the family day

Bottle filling was part of the fun and games. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Bottle filling was part of the fun and games.

Female participants engage in one of the challenges. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Female participants engage in one of the challenges.

Scholars running during the fun and games. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Scholars running during the fun and games.

Mr. John Osuna (Centre) presents a gift to a participant. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. John Osuna (Centre) presents a gift to a participant.

Scholars show off their certificates. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program family day event, 19th May 2025, Rugby Grounds, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Scholars show off their certificates.

Carol Kasujja
Carol Kasujja Adii

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Directorate of Graduate Training Conducts a Training for Trainer of Trainees in Scholarly Writing & Communication Skills

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By Moses Lutaaya

The Directorate of Graduate Training has equipped scholarly and communication skills to lecturers on facilitating PhD programs in different schools and colleges.

This was during a training dubbed “Training of Trainers” organized by Directorate of Graduate Training with funding support from the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA). The workshop, conducted in the training lab in the Main University Library, was spearheaded by facilitators from the School of Languages, Literature and Communication, where the course is housed.

Officiating at the training, the Director of Graduate Training at Makerere University, Prof. Julius Kikooma highlighted that the training aimed at strengthening and enhancing the capacity of schools and colleges in handling PhD studies.

“We select a few lecturers, comprehensively train them and we usually have them cascade the knowledge to other lecturers in the different schools and colleges.” Prof. Kikooma said.

Prof. Kikooma said the University had streamlined admissions into the PhD by research program at Makerere University. Presently, there are now two intakes per academic year, highlighting an increase in the number of applicants and admissions.

“Because of the increased number of applicants and admissions, the central management has put great emphasis on improving the environment for teaching, learning, and research for graduate students generally.” He said.

Prof. Kikooma said that in a bid to achieve a better learning environment, the Directorate of Graduate Training had spearheaded efforts to strengthen the capacity of staff in various schools to handle the PhD training.

The schools whose staff participated in the ToT included, School of Public Health, the East African School for Higher Education Studies & Development, Makerere University Business School, East Africa School of Library & Information Sciences, the School of Agricultural Sciences and College of Computing and Information Sciences.

The training that was supported by CARTA, Prof. Kikooma said “CARTA generally mobilizes resources to support researchers, especially graduate students, including Thesis completion, capacity building of researchers as well as support on actual PhD research.”

He added, “Makerere University prides in collaborations with partners that have resource mobilization power that is bigger than that of universities, saying, these support capacity building and competitive grants for Mak. The partners include the Council for Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA) and CARNEGIE, based in New York.”

He however noted that the landscape for development partners continues to shift in terms of emphasis, this was not a sustainable way of supporting graduate training students and called for the need to work aggressively with government departments and agencies including the National Planning Authority to find more sustainable ways for addressing funding for graduate education in the country.

The trainers included Dr. Charles Kato – the Head of Department Biomedical Laboratory Technology and Molecular Biology- College of Veterinary Animal Resources and Biosecurity and Prof. Levis Mugumya, the Head of Department of Linguistics, English Language Studies and Communication Skills at School of Languages Literature & Communication.

Mak Editor

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