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Rt. Hon. Mbabazi launches Students Centre Project at Mak@90 Grand Finale

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On Saturday 3rd August 2013, distinguished guests, alumni, partners, staff, students, friends and well-wishers filled the Makerere University campus to participate in the ‘Mak@90’ Grand Finale; a climax of the year-long celebrations to mark 90 years of Makerere University’s existence. Thanks to the heavens for the fine and cool weather!

As early as 9:00am, one would feel the celebratory mood in the atmosphere, as flags flew high and the proud alumni kept streaming in. A green and clean campus, people of all ages walking majestically to the Freedom Square; the Uganda Police band playing wonderful hymns; students wearing red gowns; and all invited guests elegantly and confidently walking in, with happy faces – clearly communicating that they have an inner untold joy to be at Makerere University!

By 10:30am, the Freedom Square was filled to capacity as they waited to receive the Chief Guest, H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. The jubilant congregation welcomed the composer of the Makerere University Anthem, Mr. Grace Wilson Mutekanga Igaga with a standing ovation as he was ushered in the VIP tent in the Freedom Square. The Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi, an alumnus of Makerere University represented His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Uganda. The congregation also rose to their feet to welcome H.E Dr. Mwai Kibaki, former President of the Republic of Kenya, and a distinguished alumnus of Makerere University, to the historic celebrations.

Under the theme, “Leadership towards Africa’s transformation in the 21st century,” the staff and students exhibited the latest advances in research and innovations at this great institution. The Chancellor of Makerere University, Chairperson of Council, Vice Chancellor, the Prime Minister of Uganda, the Minister of Education and Sports; and other dignitaries toured the exhibition.

On behalf of the President, Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi laid a foundation stone for the Makerere University Students’ Centre.  This project is expected to cost USD 30million with Phase 1 costing USD 15million, and total built-up area of 58,000sq.metres. The congregation was wowed by the magnificent  artistic impression of the proposed storied Students’ centre.  An excited member of the congregation blossoming with happiness was overheard exclaiming, “Oh dear Lord, I wish I live to see the completion of this wonderful Students’ Centre!” May the Almighty grant this wish. 

“The need for Universities to devote more time to research, innovations and career guidance so as to help our children study courses that are relevant to the needs of society has never been greater than it is currently. We would therefore like to congratulate Makerere University for extending her innovations to economic self sustainability by seeking to construct the multi-facility Students Centre,” he said. He also re-emphasized Government’s commitment to supporting Makerere University.  

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu, explained that the Students’ Centre will be a one-stop information centre for students with a multi-purpose auditorium. He called unto all stakeholders, including the alumni to support this cause.

“The role of Alumni in any Institution cannot be underestimated. You are core to the existence of any University. As you may be aware, most Universities, especially in the North, have mostly succeeded because of the support of their alumni. In times when Government funding for higher education is increasingly not enough, the Alumni have a great opportunity to make a substantial contribution. Makerere University has produced over 300,000 graduates. I would like to thank you, Alumni of Makerere University for your various contributions wherever you are in Uganda and all over the globe. I am now appealing to you – the Alumni – to come forward and make your contribution towards this great Institution,” he appealed. The VC also paid tribute to the development partners for supporting the institutional programmes of Makerere University. Professor Ddumba-Ssentamu, also the Chairperson of Mak@90 Main Organising Committee applauded the Members of Mak@90 Organising Committee, University of East Africa celebrations Committee and the Ceremonies Committee for  the hard work and selfless service during the year-long Mak@90 celebrations.

H.E Mwai Kibaki, former President of Kenya who spoke as a distinguished alumni of Makerere University, challenged young Makerereans to make their contribution by breaking new ground in research.

“As old Makerereans, we have done our part. It is now the turn of young Makerereans to break new ground through research and innovations,” he emphasized.

Drawing examples of some of the prominent alumni that have gone through Makerere University like the late Julius Nyerere, President Kabila of DRC; President Kibaki congratulated Makerere University for giving the region and the entire world high quality human resource.

“I am grateful to be a witness to the ninety year celebrations. It is not the number of years that count but rather the institution’s illustrious story of transformation,” he added. President Kibaki, a proud alumnus of Makerere University was grateful to the Institution for contributing to making him what he is today.

The celebrations were heightened with the fresh news of Makerere University’s improved ranking from 9th to 4th position on the continent, as per the July 2013 webometric rankings.

“In the next few years, Makerere should become a World Class University. The Task Force on Job Evaluation and Re-organisation of Staff Structure of Makerere University has already made path finder recommendations that are being scrutinized and we shall soon be able to set Makerere on the path to World Class categorization and this is a sure possibility,” re-assured Hon. Jessica Alupo, the Education Minister.

An Artistic Impression of the Proposed Students' Centre, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
An Artistic Impression of the Proposed Students’ Centre, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.

On behalf of the Student community, the Guild President, H.E Anna Adeke-Ebaju, appealed to the Government of Uganda to increase funding to public universities. She requested Government to re-consider the beneficiaries of the Students’ Loan Scheme, which currently caters for only science students, and excludes humanities and social sciences. In response to her request, the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister explained that the Students loan is still in its infancy, Government is aware of its challenges, but that it will improve as time goes by.

A key highlight of the celebrations was the recognition of Mr. Grace Wilson Mutekanga Igaga, the composer of the Makerere University Anthem. The police band played and the congregation joined in giving this illustrious alumnus a highly deserved standing ovation as he walked to receive an award from the Chancellor, Professor George Mondo Kagonyera, in recognition of his genius contribution to Makerere University.

“As we celebrate the 90 years of Makerere University, I take this singular honour of recognizing the composer of one of the most beautiful anthems, I have ever listened to,” remarked the joyful Chancellor. He then presented the well-worded and beautiful plaque to Mr. Grace Wilson Mutekanga Igaga and a dummy cheque of Five Million shillings, as a token of appreciation from the Makerere University.

Mr. Grace Wilson Mutekanga Igaga, in recognition of your ingenious efforts in composing the Makerere University Anthem – a timeless and eternally inspiring masterpiece – read part of the plaque.

The 70 year old Grace Wilson Mutekanga Igaga thrilled the congregation when he melodiously and articulately opened his vocal cords to sing a stanza of the coveted Anthem; in a manner that only the original composer could have done. He was extremely natural, original and fully in control, as the audience looked on in awe, fighting back tears of joy! Mutekanga was in the company of his dear wife, Mrs. Frances Mutekanga. The applause that followed was thunderous!

In his address to the congregation, the jovial alumnus, Mutekanga said, “With big humility, I stand before you, to thank you Mr. Vice Chancellor and your administration for every effort. I thank the Makerere University community for accepting my commodity. I say to the entire world, I feel honoured. I have never imagined that I would receive this honour when I am still alive. I am very grateful for the Award.”

In the same spirit, Gen. Elly Tumwine, the Patron of the Great Lakes Students’ Union presented a medal to H.E Dr. Mwai Kibaki in recognition of his outstanding political, economic and life achievements and also for promoting good governance in the region.

The guests were treated to a photographic memory lane of Makerere University and a video tour of the great Institution. They were served mouth-watering snacks and bull-roasting. The celebration attracted artists who are also alumni of Makerere University. Key among them was Herbert Segujja, a popular comedian,  excellent at mimicking President Museveni. The audience broke into uncontrollable laughter when the comedy version of President Museveni in the person of Segujja, drove into the Freedom Square with full V.I.P escorts and glamour. He went ahead to give remarks that sent the audience into further laughter. By press time, (10:00pm) the guests were still dancing to the tunes of these artists, in a highly interactive dance floor. The event was updated online (facebook and twitter) as it happened, and was also covered live on UBC. As estimated 900 guests attended the grand finale, close to the expected 1,000.

The event was majorly sponsored by Makerere University. Other sponsors included Bank of Uganda, Centenary Bank; Stanbic Bank; dfcu Bank, Crane Bank; Coca-Cola Sabco, Crown Beverages Limited,  UBC Television, NTV, sms one and the Daily Monitor.

Congratulations to Makerere University for successfully celebrating the 90 years of existence.


Looking forward to the Centennial celebrations!


Story By Ritah Namisango and Marion Alina
Photos by Elias Tuhereze and Joseph Buwule

Mark Wamai

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Re-Advert: Position of Second Deputy Vice Chancellor

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Mak Main Building

Makerere University is governed by the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, Cap 262. The University is seeking applications from suitably qualified applicants for the position of Second Deputy Vice-Chancellor. The Second Deputy Vice Chancellor holds a pivotal role in financial governance, institutional planning, and administrative leadership.

1.      POSITION:           SECOND DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR
2.      SALARY SCALE: PU2
3:     DUTY STATION:  MAKERERE UNIVERSITY
4.      ROLE

The Second Deputy Vice-Chancellor will report to the Vice–Chancellor and shall:

a)     Assist the Vice Chancellor in performance of his or her functions and in that regard shall oversee the finances and administration of the University;

b)     Be responsible for the Planning and Development of the University and,

c)      Perform such other functions that may be delegated to him or her by the Vice Chancellor or assigned by the University Council.

5.      PURPOSE OF THE JOB

To provide strategic leadership and ensure efficient and sound financial, human and fiscal resources management in the University.

6.      DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

a)     Provide leadership in Strategic planning and governance, leadership and administrative experience, Human resource and performance Management, Stakeholder engagement and collaboration.

b)     Provide leadership in preparation and implementation of the University’s recurrent and capital budgets.

c)      Monitor the development and implementation of the University’s accounting procedures, manuals and other documents relating to financial control and Management as per approved financial regulations.

d)     Oversee income and expenditure of all income generating units of the University.

e)     Coordinate the production of the University-wide Financial Reports by Colleges and Units.

f)      Management of human resources in the University.

g)     Oversee the management of University Estates and Assets.

7. CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION

a)     Hold a PhD or any other academic doctorate.

b)     Be at the rank of associate or full professor level in an institution whose academic ranking is comparable with that of Makerere University as accepted by Senate.

c)      Be a Ugandan citizen within the age bracket of 40 to 65 years at the time of application.

7.1 Academic Qualifications

a)     Earned a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate should be acceptable by Senate.

b)     At least five years of financial or administrative leadership experience at the level of school dean/director or higher in a higher education institution, public service, or corporate institutions.

c)      Supervised at least ten (10) postgraduate students (Master’s and Ph.D.) to completion. At least three of the students must be at the PhD level.

7.2 Strategic Planning and Governance

a)     Experience in leading large administrative teams at the level of dean or higher, demonstrating efficiency and productivity.

b)     Proven record in developing and executing strategic plans, aligning financial and administrative objectives with institutional goals.

c)      Evidence of developing and implementing financial policies that have improved financial efficiency, transparency, and risk management.

d)     Evidence of implementing organisational restructuring or process improvements to ensure operational efficiency.

e)     Ability to develop and implement institutional policies, ensuring compliance with national higher education and financial regulations.

7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience

a)     Minimum 5 years of senior academic leadership in a recognized institution comparable with that of Makerere University, as accepted by Senate.

b)     Demonstrated    experience    in    managing    budgets    exceeding    UGX 500,000,000=, ensuring financial sustainability and accountability.

c)     Proven ability to mobilize resources, secure grants, and attract external funding to support institutional growth.

d)     Experience in conducting financial forecasting, cost control measures, and investment strategies to optimize institutional resources.

e)     Track record of leading financial audits and compliance assessments in alignment with national and international financial regulations.

f)      Experience in handling procurement, asset management, and infrastructure development, ensuring transparency and value for money.

7.4    Human Resource and Performance Management

a)    Track record of leading workforce planning, recruitment, and talent development strategies, ensuring a high-performance institutional culture.

b)     Experience in implementing performance-based appraisal systems, leading to improved staff efficiency and accountability.

c)      Proven ability to foster industrial harmony, resolving labour disputes and improving employer-employee relations.

7.5    Infrastructure Development and Resource Optimization

a)     Experience in overseeing capital development projects, ensuring timely delivery and cost efficiency.

b)     Track record of overseeing the maintenance and expansion of university facilities, enhancing institutional infrastructure.

c) Proven ability to negotiate and manage contracts for outsourced services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality standards.

7.6 Digital Transformation and ICT Integration

a) Experience in integrating ICT solutions in financial and administrative operations, improving service delivery and efficiency.

b) Evidence steering the automation of financial, procurement, and HR systems, reducing paperwork and improving real-time decision making.

c) Proven ability to implement cybersecurity measures that safeguard institutional financial and administrative data.

7.7 Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

a) Demonstrated experience in building partnerships with government agencies, donors, private sector investors, and international organizations to enhance institutional funding.

b) Proven ability to engage faculty, students, and staff in financial decision-making, ensuring transparency and inclusivity.

c) Experience in negotiating contracts, partnerships, and collaborations that have led to financial and administrative growth.

7.8 Personal Attributes

a) High level of integrity, transparency, and ethical leadership, with a record of financial prudence.

b) Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, backed by evidence of successfully managing complex financial and administrative challenges.

c) Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement.

d) A visionary leader with the ability to drive financial sustainability administrative efficiency, and institutional growth.

8. REMUNERATION

An attractive remuneration package that is in accordance with Makerere University terms and conditions of service.

9. TENURE

The Second Deputy Vice Chancellor shall hold office for a period of five years and shall be eligible for re-appointment for one more term.

10. METHOD OF APPLICATION

Interested applicants are invited to submit their application letters. The following documents shall comprise a complete application:

a) A signed letter of application;

b) A vision statement;

c) Curriculum Vitae with contact details signed and dated by the applicant;

d) Copies of required minimum number of publications;

e) Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates;

f) Three (3) letters of recommendation;

g) Copies of letters of appointment to leadership positions at the level of Dean of a School in a national accredited university or other academic institution;

h) A copy of the applicant’s National Identity Card or passport;

i) A copy of the last clearance from the Inspector General of Government or other equivalent national body;

j) Referees should be advised to send confidential reference letters, addressed to the Chairperson Search Committee for the Position of Second Deputy Vice Chancellor and delivered directly to the address below by 5:00 pm on Monday 14th April, 2025;

k) The references should cover the following areas: the applicant’s academic credential, experience, leadership, managerial and administrative skills and personal integrity.

Both Hardcopy and Electronic (Email) applications shall be accepted.

(a) Hardcopy applications: Both confidential letters and sealed applications marked

“CONFIDENTIAL: POSITION OF SECOND DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLOR”

should be addressed to:

SECRETARY SEARCH COMMITTEE
THE ACADEMIC REGISTRAR
MAKERERE UNIVERSITY
6TH Floor, ROOM 602, SENATE BUILDING
P. O. BOX 7062, KAMPALA, UGANDA

(b) Electronic media (e-mail) applications should have all the above documents scanned and emailed to search.dvcfa[at]mak.ac.ug by 5.00 pm East African Standard Time on Monday 14th April, 2025.

Please note that:

(a) Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date and time

will not be considered.

(b) Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.

For more Information and inquiries:
Email us on search.dvcfa@mak.ac.ug OR Call Telephone number: +256-414-532634 during working hours (between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday).

MAKERERE UNIVERSITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (PhD)
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

Mak Editor

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RE-Advert: Position of First Deputy Vice Chancellor

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Front View of the reconstructed Main Building, Makerere University. Date Taken 8th November 2024. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University is governed by the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, Cap 262. The University is seeking applications from suitably qualified applicants for the position of First Deputy Vice-Chancellor. The First Deputy Vice Chancellor must possess a strong background in academic leadership, teaching, research, and strategic institutional management.

1. POSITION: FIRST DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR

2. SALARY SCALE: PU2

3: DUTY STATION: MAKERERE UNIVERSITY

4. ROLE

The First Deputy Vice-Chancellor will report to the Vice–Chancellor and shall:

  1. Assist the Vice Chancellor in performance of his or her functions and in that regard be responsible for the Academic affairs of the University
  2. In the absence of the Vice-Chancellor, perform the functions of the Vice-Chancellor and,
  3. Perform such other functions that may be delegated to him or her by the Vice Chancellor or assigned by the University Council.

5. PURPOSE OF THE JOB

To provide leadership and Coordination of academic and academic research matters to ensure effective and efficient implementation of policies, teaching and research programmes.

6. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Initiate, obtain approval of policies, plans and programmes that will enhance the academic and professional excellence of the University.
  2. Initiate, coordinate curriculum development and review for all courses offered at the University.
  3. Ensure that all examinations are set and marked in accordance with established Regulations.
  4. Coordinate the appointment of external examiners.
  5. Oversee the selection and admission of qualified students.
  6. Oversee the development of research programmes by liaising with Principals of Colleges/Deans of Schools and submit them to Senate and Council for approval.

7. CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION

  1. Hold a PhD or any other academic doctorate.
  2. Be at the rank of associate or full professor level in an institution whose academic ranking is comparable with that of Makerere University as accepted by Senate.
  3. Be a Ugandan citizen within the age bracket of 40 to 65 years at the time of application.

7.1 Academic Qualifications

  1. Earned a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in a relevant discipline.
  2. Minimum 5 years of progressive academic experience, including teaching, research, and academic administration at the level of dean of a school or higher.
  3. At least 20 peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals indexed in Scopus, Web of Science, or equivalent databases.
  4. Supervised at least ten (10) postgraduate students (Masters and PhD) to completion and graduation; at least three of these students must have been at the level of PhD.

7.2 Strategic Planning & Governance

  1. Evidence of having served or participated in university-level strategic planning processes including, membership to strategic planning committees and contribution to policy development and institutional growth.
  2. At least five years of demonstrated experience in academic programme accreditation processes contributing to the securing approvals from the relevant national or international regulatory bodies.
  3. Demonstrated evidence in leading at least one (1) higher education ICT integration initiative, improving online learning, digital governance, or student information systems or the development of at least one online course curriculum.

7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience

  1. A minimum of 5 years of senior academic leadership in a recognized institution comparable to that of Makerere University, as accepted by the Senate, at the level of Dean of a School or higher.
  2. Participated in the development and implementation of at least two (2) academic policies improving quality assurance, curriculum development, or institutional governance.
  3. Demonstrated ability to lead a school or college, ensuring optimal performance and professional development of members.
  4. Proven track record of mentoring at least 10 faculty members toward career progression and research output, including co-teaching, publication, and capacity development in areas of teaching and training, grants, research and innovations.
  5. Participated in at least three (3) university committees or initiatives on academic policy development, research and publications, or student affairs.
  6. Participation in mediation of at least five (5) student or faculty grievances, ensuring fair and transparent resolutions.

7.4 Teaching, Learning & Curriculum Development

  1. Led or contributed to the development of at least five (5) accredited academic programmes or curricula at undergraduate and postgraduate level.
  2. Participated in the Designing and conducting at least 10 faculty development workshops focused on pedagogy, research methodologies, or curriculum advancement.

7.5 Research & Innovation

  1. Secured at least $200,000 in competitive research grants from national or international funding agencies.
  2. Established or managed at least one (1) research centre, or college wide research programme or industry-academic partnerships.
  3. Published a minimum of five (5) books, or 5 book chapters, or patents (separate from the papers in peer reviewed journals), contributing to knowledge production in the discipline.
  4. Organized at least three (3) international or national research conferences, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.

7.6 Financial & Resource Management

  1. Successfully managed academic budgets exceeding UGX 500,000,000= in a leadership role.
  2. Led at least two (2) faculty resource mobilisation initiatives, increasing funding for research, scholarships, or infrastructure.
  3. Secured at least one (1) international academic partnership to enhance funding, student exchange, or faculty development.
  4. Developed and executed at least three (3) cost-cutting strategies, optimising institutional resources without compromising academic quality.

7.7 Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

  1. Built at least five (5) partnerships with government agencies, private sector stakeholders, or international academic institutions.
  2. Successfully led at least two (2) community engagement or outreach programmes, strengthening university-industry relations.
  3. Served on or contributed to at least three (3) University, national, or international education policy boards, shaping higher education discourse.

7.8 Personal Attributes

  1. Proven record of upholding institutional integrity, with no record of financial mismanagement or ethical violations.
  2. Demonstrated decision-making and problem-solving skills, having led at least five (5) crisis resolution initiatives.
  3. Recognized for academic leadership excellence, receiving at least one (1 ) award or recognition for contributions to higher education.

8. REMUNERATION

An attractive remuneration package that is in accordance with Makerere University terms and conditions of service.

9. TENURE

The First Deputy Vice Chancellor shall hold office for a period of five years and shall be eligible for re- appointment for one more term.

10. METHOD OF APPLICATION

Interested applicants are invited to submit their application letters. The following documents shall comprise a complete application:

  1. A signed letter of application;
  2. A vision statement;
  3. Curriculum Vitae with contact details signed and dated by the applicant;
  4. Copies of required minimum number of publications;
  5. Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates.
  6. Three (3) letters of recommendation;
  7. Copies of letters of appointment to leadership positions at the level of Dean of a School in a national accredited university or other academic institution;
  8. A copy of the applicant’s National Identity Card or passport;
  9. A copy of the last clearance from the Inspector General of Government or other equivalent national body.
  10. Referees should be advised to send confidential reference letters, addressed to the Chairperson Search Committee for the Position of First Deputy Vice Chancellor and delivered directly to the address below by 5:00 pm on Monday 14th April, 2025.
  11. The references should cover the following areas: the applicant’s academic credential, experience, leadership, managerial and administrative skills and personal integrity.

Both Hardcopy and Electronic (Email) applications shall be accepted.

a) Hardcopy applications: Both confidential letters and sealed applications marked “CONFIDENTIAL: POSITION OF FIRST DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLOR” should be addressed to:

SECRETARY SEARCH COMMITTEE
THE ACADEMIC REGISTRAR
MAKERERE UNIVERSITY
6TH Floor, ROOM 602, SENATE BUILDING
P.O.BOX 7062, KAMPALA, UGANDA

b) Electronic media (e-mail) applications should have all the above documents scanned and emailed to search.dvcaa@mak.ac.ug by 5.00 pm East African Standard Time on Monday 14th April, 2025.

Please note that:

a) Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered.

b) Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.

For more Information and inquiries: Visit our website https://mak.ac.ug/search-for-dvcs OR email us on search.dvcaa@mak.ac.ug OR Call Telephone number: +256-414-532634 during working hours (between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday).

MAKERERE UNIVERSITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

Mak Editor

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Office of the Academic Registrar Lauded for Groundbreaking Achievements In Digitalization

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Mr. Charles Ssentongo (5th Left), together with Office of the Academic Registrar staff members are joined by Dr. Dickson Kalungi (4th Right) and MUST Registrars for a group photo in front of the Senate Building on 25th March 2025.

By Gerald Ochwo

On 25th March 2025, a delegation of Registrars from Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) undertook a benchmarking exercise at Makerere University, with a specific focus on the latter’s pioneering efforts in academic records digitalization. The delegation, led by Dr. Dickson Kalungi, Ag. Deputy Academic Registrar was received by Mr. Charles Ssentongo, Deputy Academic Registrar in charge of Admissions and Records Division, who represented the Academic Registrar (AR), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi.

The visit was prompted by Makerere University‘s trailblazing achievements in digitalizing academic records, as exemplified by the Digitalization of Academic Records Project (DARP). This initiative has been instrumental in creating a centralized, digital one stop repository of all University’s academic records, thereby enhancing the efficiency, accuracy, and security of academic records management.

In his welcoming remarks, Mr. Ssentongo conveyed the Academic Registrar’s message and highlighted Makerere University‘s efforts to digitalize all its processes and records. He further noted that the university is intentional about creating a digital ecosystem that makes academic records retrieval easy and efficient.

As a university, we are now intentional with the digitalization of all our processes including, digitization of our manual records that date as way back as the inception of Makerere University. Currently, the DARP project as gone as far as creating a one stop center for both Academic document verification and certification, whereby our former graduates, will only need to access the online verification and certification portal and submit their documents without necessarily having to travel many physical distances to Makerere University” Mr. Ssentongo remarked.

Registrars from MAK and MUST pose for a group photo after the meeting. Left is article author Gerald Ochwo.
Registrars from MAK and MUST pose for a group photo after the meeting. Left is article author Gerald Ochwo.

In his appreciation remarks, the MUST head of delegation, Dr. Dickson Kalungi, thanked the Academic Registrar for honoring their request to come and learn from the best practices that exist at Makerere University and particularly commended the Department for the great steps and strides made in pioneering modern Academic records storage management systems.

“I want to sincerely thank the Office of the Academic Registrar for sparing time and organizing this meeting. As a University, we have embarked on a transformative change drive whereby we intend to automate all our registry processes including, the management of Academic Records. The DARP project at Makerere University, has been one project where we draw a number of lessons and we are eager to go and implement some of the best practices we have observed here today”

Conclusion

The benchmarking exercise undertaken by Mbarara University of Science and Technology demonstrates the significance of Makerere University and particularly, the Office of the Academic Registrar’s achievements in academic records digitalization. The DARP project serves as a model for other institutions to follow, highlighting the importance of investing in digital solutions to enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and security of academic records management. It further demonstrates the university’s commitment to sharing knowledge and best practices with other institutions. Makerere University‘s efforts in digitalizing academic records have set a high standard for other universities to emulate, and the DARP project is a shining example of innovation and excellence in academic records management.

Gerald Ochwo is the Liaison Officer, Office of the Academic Registrar

Mak Editor

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