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RUFORUM celebrates 10 years of Regional Agricultural Transformation

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  • Book on RUFORUM achievements for ten years launched
  • Outstanding Research Scientists  and Farmers get awards
  • Proposal to operationalize Graduate Teaching Assistantship tabled
  • Deans urged on Postgraduate completion rates

The 9th RUFORUM Annual General Meeting concluded in Kigali Rwanda with a call for the 32 partner universities to mutually support each others’ academic endeavors. The three day conference held from 19th to 21st September 2013 was officially opened by Rwanda’s Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Pierre Damien Habumuremyi at the Serena Hotel.

On arrival, the Prime Minister toured the exhibitions featuring RUFORUM partnering Universities and agricultural related organisations showcasing their latest technologies and innovations including CABI, the National University of Rwanda, Nairobi University of Kenya, Bunda College University of Malawi and University of Swaziland.

Makerere University Uganda exhibited various agro processed products from the Food Technology and Business Incubation Centre, as well as animal and crop technologies that stunned conference participants.

The RUFORUM Board Chair Prof. Levy Nyagura (L) hands over the Makerere University RUFORUM Membership Certificate to DVCFA Assoc. Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe at the 9th AGM Kigali Rwanda 19th-21st Sept 2013 Makerere’s Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration Assoc. Prof.  Barnabas Nawangwe represented the Vice Chancellor John Ddumba-Ssentamu at the conference.  Prof. Bernard Bashaasha (Principal), Prof. Patrick Rubayihayo and Assoc. Prof. Patrick Okori represented the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES). Others were Dr. Jessica Nakavuma (Deputy Principal) and Dr. David Owiny (Dean School Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory Sciences) from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity  (CoVAB)

Rt. Hon. Pierre Damien Habumuremyi  then launched  the RUFORUM book highlighting the network  achievements over  the past ten years of its  existence titled, “ DIRTY HANDS, FINE MINDS: The Story of an Agricultural Research and Training Network in African Universities”, authored by Mary Anne Fitzgerald and Megan Lindow.

The book discusses RUFORUM programs drawn from solid international experiences which identify how universities are central to achieving successful agricultural transformation.  The book shows how the RUFORUM member universities are building strong ties to business enterprises to provide role models, case studies and enhancing opportunities. The book also highlights collaborations among RUFORUM universities that have given students, staff and more importantly farmers access the knowledge and facilities within those universities.

A Conference Participant inspects products on display at the Makerere University Stall during the 9th RUFORUM AGM, Kigali Rwanda, 19th-21st Sept 2013  Prime Minister, Pierre Damien Habumuremyi later handed over IMPRESSA awards to Africa’s top three research scientists whose work had a continental impact. The first prize winner was Prof. Richard Kiprombeyi from Moi University Kenya. The second prize went to Prof. Robert Okalebo from Eldoret University Kenya as a distinguished scientist in the area of Soil Management in Africa while Prof. Emmanuel Kaunda from Bunda College University of Malawi   got the prize for developing the Fisheries and Aquaculture Centre that has benefitted many.

Two outstanding scientists in Agriculture in Rwanda were also awarded for improving peoples’ livelihoods. The trophies were handed over by Rwanda’s Minister of Education, Dr. Vincent Biruta.  Dr. Bucyaca Charles, a lecturer in the Department of Agricultural Sciences was recognized for writing a paper on Soil Conservation Technology used by farmers such as cover terracing which has impacted on the farming communities in Rwanda. The other scientist was Dr. Kagaba Desire working with the Rwanda Agricultural Board. He was recognized for his work in Agricultural Watershed Management.

Prof. David Owiny (R) along with other participants at the 9th RUFORUM AGM Kigali Rwanda 19th-21st Sept 2013Five outstanding innovative farmers in Rwanda were also given trophies and awarded 5000 Rwanda Francs to improve their farming activities in recognition of their distinguished efforts and commitment to improve the agricultural sector. The trophies were handed over to Ms. Twimbazimana Consolae, Mr. Simeo Gyizimana  and  Mrs. Uwera Flora among others by RUFORUM Board chairman  Prof. Levy Nyagura.

In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister  Rt. Hon. Pierre Damien Habumuremyi told participants  that the mission and vision of RUFORUM was in line with that of the Government of Rwanda geared towards  transforming the  education system  and improving  people’s livelihoods, “ This meeting  has given Rwanda  a golden opportunity to celebrate achievements  of RUFORUM for the past ten years and to witness the award ceremony to its outstanding farmers and Scientists”, he said.

The Prime Minister thanked RUFORUM for taking a bold step to reach out and promote a broad agenda of not the “Ivory Tower Syndrome” but working in a partnership model that has changed many lives. He appreciated RUFORUM for making a difference in graduate training saying, over 20 Rwandese students had benefited, trained and returned home. He added that to-date RUFORUM support to agricultural research   had reached to a tune of 9million USD with support from donors.

 Prof. Bernard Bashaasha, Prinicpal CAES, Makerere University, contributes to the discussion during the 9th RUFORUM AGM 19th-21st Sept 2013, Kigali RwandaRt. Hon. Pierre Damien Habumuremyi said over the past ten years  much had been achieved  through RUFORUM network universities  including the production of  high performing graduates and research output  that was responsive to  national needs and development , “ RUFORUM goal is in line with the Vision of President Kagame in what concerns the development of agricultural sector in Rwanda and  the transformation of Africa, elimination of  hunger and poverty”,  The Prime Minister reiterated.

He said Rwanda’s next focus was to increase productivity and agriculture value chain and attract the private sector to improve agriculture that require agricultural education and a critical mass to transform agriculture. He pledged his government commitment to support the network activities.

He added that Government of Rwanda would like to be actively involved in the network by linking   Rwanda agricultural universities with private institutions, providing   exposure to RUFORUM network facilities, accessing network centers of excellence, carrying out research and fighting pests and diseases among others.

The Prime Minister of Rwanda, Rt. Hon. Pierre Damien Habumuremyi (C) with some of the prize winners at the 9th RUFORUM AGM, 19th-21st Sept 2013, Kigali RwandaThe conference brought together, Permanent secretaries, Vice chancellors, Deans and Principals from the partnering universities, colleges and faculties. The committee of Deans and Principal’s held a Pre – Annual General Meeting and discussed various issues including the need to improve on the visibility and funding of the network activities,  the relevance of the curriculum , graduate completion rates, governance issues, quality assurance and the proposed mobility program  of Graduate Teaching Assistant ship(GTA) among other things.

The idea of Graduate Training Assistantship (GTA) was submitted by RUFORUM Secretariat where it was noted that about three quarters of the Vice chancellors of the partnering universities had signed a Memorandum of Understanding endorsing it as a good initiative.

Under this arrangement, the host university provides fellowships / student assistantship that will include waiver on tuition fees and all other related program fees. The hosting university also provides the staff member with research funds available at the university; have such students registered for a PhD or MSc and then fix the candidate on the timetable to teach at the host university as part of their contribution. The sending university on the other hand, will provide their staff or PhD student with return tickets and all related travel expenses including living out allowances during the mobility period.

L-R Prof. Adipala Ekwamu, Executive Secretary-RUFORUM, Prof. Levy Nyagura-RUFORUM Board Chairman and Prof. J.H. Pen-Mogi Nyeko-Vice Chancellor Gulu University at the 9th RUFORUM AGM, Kigali Rwanda The proposal was seen as a good initiative that will promote  academic mobility among partnering universities as part of the effort to train a pool of PhD level academic staff that will also promote regional integration and cross fertilization of expertise with the region.

Addressing Principals and Deans, the Chairman RUFORUM Board Prof. Levy Nyagura who is also Vice Chancellor University of Zimbabwe described the Deans as champions of research and implored them to support the GTA initiative saying, it was an indirect way of financing Postgraduate studies and a strategy of dealing with   limited financial resources to support graduates.

“Let us have a common vision as RUFORUM family regarding uplifting each other in terms of academics. The bottom line is to accept the idea. We have not come up with implementation modalities. Secretariat will engage with you deans and prepare a dozzier to that effect. The Deans should bring suggestions of what they think should be done to make the scheme effective and efficient for the future academics. “Prof. Levy Nyagura appealed to the Deans.

 In the same forum, the Deans were also requested to ensure that Post graduate students complete their studies within the stipulated rules and regulations. This followed the Deans and Principals committee meeting which raised concerns over complaints that some students were taking too long to graduate.

The Board chairman asked Deans to consider themselves as responsible for creating a good academic environment for students to complete. “Deans should gauge the number of admissions vis-a-vis the number of supervisors and guide the system on what is possible regarding postgraduate admission and the existing capacity’, The Board Chairman advised.

Some of the Participants in the 9th Annual RUFORUM AGM, 19th-21st September 2013, Kigali Rwanda

The conference was also punctuated by presentations from other agricultural organizations including ASARECA, CTA and CARDESSA. All RUFORUM partnering universities received   membership certificates.

RUFORUM is a consortium of 32 member universities in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa. The Principals and Deans responsible for agriculture in these universities are the main entry point of implementation and achievements of RUFORUM output and impacts in agricultural graduates, the university and sector at large in those countries.

Regular meetings of the Deans and Principals are a key channel for networking, sharing and lesson learning, collective discussion and agreements on regional initiatives that influence change for the better focus in the colleges, faculties and universities. END

 

Story by Jane Anyango & Agaba Issa Mugabo

Mark Wamai

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Press Statement: Makerere 76th Graduation Ceremony

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) presents one of the printed batches of transcripts the Registrar College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS)-Ms. Ruth Iteu Eyoku (2nd Right) as Right to Left: DVCAA-Prof. Sarah Ssali, AR-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Ms. Prossy Nakayiki witness on 28th January 2026. Vice Chancellor's Press Briefing on the 76th Graduation due to be held 24th-27th February 2026 at Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University’s 76th graduation ceremony will be held from February 24th, 2026, at the Makerere University Freedom Square, starting at 8.30am. During the 76th graduation ceremony, we shall confer degrees and award certificates to 185 PhDs, 2034 Masters, 6,043 bachelors, 137 post graduate diplomas and 33 Postgraduate diplomas.

I am proud to announce that in comparison to the 75th graduation, we have registered a 30% growth in graduate student output. This is a result of our strategic decision to prioritize graduate education per our research-led agenda.

I also wish to announce that the transcripts have been finalized and are ready for pick up. Today, I am handing over the ready transcripts to the College principals and can be picked up from respective Colleges even before the graduation ceremony.

Important to Note:

In preparation for the graduation ceremony, the University wishes to note the following:

  1. Pre-graduation clearances
    Graduands are reminded to clear all necessary payments such as tuition and all graduation
    fees. It is also important to check with your College to ensure your name is on the graduation
    list and all mandatory clearances with university officials have been finalized. Note and
    internalize the graduation schedule (attached) to know which day you are graduating.
  2. Securing the graduation gowns
    Graduation gowns will be issued starting from 2nd February 2026 from the University Hall (Dinning Hall), Monday to Friday, from 9am to 4pm. To collect your gown, check and ensure your name appears on the Senate Graduation list, present your student number or National ID, and proof of payment for the gown.
  3. Security requirements
    • Attendance: For each day of graduation, entrance to the graduation ground will be by invitation only. Graduands will be issued with invitation cards which permits two guests per graduand. Do not come with more than two people or they will not be allowed access to the graduation venue. Graduands are encouraged to arrive to settle at the Freedom Square by 7am on graduation day to for a seamless flow of planned activities including the necessary security checks.
    • Prohibited items: Prohibited items include firearms, sharp instruments like mirrors and knives, alcohol, cell or batteries and chemicals, canned food and drinks, laptops, flashes and hard disks, radios including pocket radios, bottled drinks, cameras, large bags or any other heavy items.
    • Media: All media and journalists who wish to cover the ceremony must be pre-accredited by the Makerere University Public Relations office or they will not be allowed to access the ceremony venue. The access point for accredited media personnel will be the Senate Building.
    • Parking: There will be two designated parking areas; Rugby Grounds for those coming through the Eastern and Main Gate; and the second one is the Makerere University Main Grounds at Makerere College School. For VVIPs, VIPs and procession parking will be at CTF1, Directorate of Legal parking, St Francis and St Augustine parking, JICA and Senate Building.
    • Access Control: To ease traffic flow and management, the University has planned three access points to the graduation venue: the School of Social Sciences, Senate Building and the University Swimming Pool.
  4. For help and inquiries
    • Starting February 2, 2026, the Academic Registrar ’s Office and Graduation Committee will set up an information tent outside the Senate Building to provide guidance and handle all inquiries pertaining to graduation.


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Re-Advert for the Position of the Second Deputy Vice Chancellor

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An aerial shot of the Main Building, as taken by a drone over the Freedom Square with Left to Right: CHUSS, St. Francis, St. Augustine and CAES Buildings and the Kikoni area (Background) in view. Makerere University, 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 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: Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā  DUTY STATION: MAKERERE UNIVERSITY

  4.       ROLE

The Second 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 shall oversee the finances and administration of the University;
  2. Be responsible for the Planning and Development of the University 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 strategic leadership and ensure efficient and sound financial, human and fiscal resources management in the University.

6.         DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Provide leadership in Strategic planning and governance, leadership and administrative experience, Human resource and performance Management, Stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
  2. Provide leadership in preparation and implementation of the University’s recurrent and capital budgets.
  3. 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.
  4. Oversee income and expenditure of all income generating units of the University.
  5. Coordinate the production of the University-wide Financial Reports by Colleges and Units.
  6. Management of human resources in the University.
  7. Oversee the management of University Estates and Assets.

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 should be acceptable by Senate.
  2. 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.
  3. 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

  1. Experience in leading large administrative teams at the level of dean or higher, demonstrating efficiency and productivity.
  2. Proven record in developing and executing strategic plans, aligning financial and administrative objectives with institutional goals.
  3. Evidence of developing and implementing financial policies that have improved financial efficiency, transparency, and risk management.
  4. Evidence of implementing organisational restructuring or process improvements to ensure operational efficiency.
  5. Ability to develop and implement institutional policies, ensuring compliance with national higher education and financial regulations.

7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience

  1. Minimum 5 years of senior academic leadership in a recognized institution comparable with that of Makerere University, as accepted by Senate.
  2. Demonstrated experience in managing budgets exceeding UGX 500,000,000=, ensuring financial sustainability and accountability.
  3. Proven ability to mobilize resources, secure grants, and attract external funding to support institutional growth.
  4. Experience in conducting financial forecasting, cost control measures, and investment strategies to optimize institutional resources.
  5. Track record of leading financial audits and compliance assessments in alignment with national and international financial regulations.
  6. Experience in handling procurement, asset management, and infrastructure development, ensuring transparency and value for money.

7.4       Human Resource and Performance Management

  1. Track record of leading workforce planning, recruitment, and talent development strategies, ensuring a high-performance institutional culture.
  2. Experience in implementing performance-based appraisal systems, leading to improved staff efficiency and accountability.
  3. Proven ability to foster industrial harmony, resolving labour disputes and improving employer-employee relations.

7.5        Infrastructure Development and Resource Optimization

  1. Experience in overseeing capital development projects, ensuring timely delivery and cost efficiency.
  2. Track record of overseeing the maintenance and expansion of university facilities, enhancing institutional infrastructure.
  3. Proven ability to negotiate and manage contracts for outsourced services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality standards.

7.6          Digital Transformation and ICT Integration

  1. Experience in integrating ICT solutions in financial and administrative operations, improving service delivery and efficiency.
  2. Evidence steering the automation of financial, procurement, and HR systems, reducing paperwork and improving real-time decision making.
  3. Proven ability to implement cybersecurity measures that safeguard institutional financial and administrative data.

7.7          Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

  1. Demonstrated experience in building partnerships with government agencies, donors, private sector investors, and international organizations to enhance institutional funding.
  2. Proven ability to engage faculty, students, and staff in financial decision-making, ensuring transparency and inclusivity.
  3. Experience in negotiating contracts, partnerships, and collaborations that have led to financial and administrative growth.

7.8        Personal Attributes

  1. High level of integrity, transparency, and ethical leadership, with a record of financial prudence.
  2. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, backed by evidence of successfully managing complex financial and administrative challenges.
  3. Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement.
  4. 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:

  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. Ā 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 Second Deputy Vice Chancellor and delivered directly to the address below by 5:00 pm on Friday 13th February, 2026;
  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.

  1. Hardcopy applications: Both confidential letters and sealed applications marked ā€œCONFIDENTIAL: POSITION OF SECOND DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLORā€ should be addressed to:

SECRETARY SEARCH COMMITTEE

THE ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

MAKERERE UNIVERSITY

6TH Floor, ROOM 602, SENATE BUILDING

P.O.BOX 7062, KAMPALA, UGANDA

  1. Electronic media (e-mail) applications should have all the above documents scanned and emailed to search.dvcfa@mak.ac.ug by 5.00 pm East African Standard Time on Friday 13th February, 2026.

Please note that:

  1. Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered.
  2. Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.
  3. Applicants who responded to the advertisements published on 31st December 2025 (The New Vision) and 2nd January 2026 (The Daily Monitor) do not need to re-apply.

For more Information and inquiries:Ā 

Visit our website https://mak.ac.ug/search-for-dvcs OR 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. Mukadasi Buyinza

ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

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Press Statement: Makerere University Congratulates Former Staff and Students on Successful Election to Public Office

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An aerial photo of Clockwise Top Left to Right: St. Francis Chapel, Main Building, CAES, JICA Building, Chemistry Building, Mathematics, School of Statistics, Main Library, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, CoBAMS, EPRC, IGDS and the Freedom Square. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University warmly congratulates its former staff and students who emerged victorious in the 2026 national elections. Their success is a source of immense pride to the University and a strong affirmation of Makerere’s efforts to not only nurture academic excellence but also free expression and leadership. It is evidence of Makerere’s enduring impact and contribution to leadership, public service, and national development.

We are particularly pleased to recognize the following distinguished members of the Makerere University community who emerged victorious:

  • Dr. Kiyonga Crispus Walter, Chancellor of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Bukonzo West.
  • Mr. Kabaasa Bruce Balaba, Chair, Finance, Planning, Administration, and Investment CommitteeĀ of the University Council, on his election as MP for Rubanda County West.
  • Mr. Alionzi Lawrence, former Guild President of Makerere University, on his election as Lord Mayor of Arua City.
  • Mr. Maseruka Robert, former Guild President of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Mukono South.
  • Mr. Gyaviira Lubowa Ssebina, former Deputy Bursar of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Nyendo–Mukungwe.
  • Prof. Lubega George Willy, former Staff at College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB),Ā on his election as MP for Bugangaizi South.
  • Prof. Ahebwa Wilber Manyisa, former Staff at College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), on his election as MP for Nakaseke North.
  • Hon. Adeke Anna Ebaju, former Guild President, on her re-election as Woman MP for Soroti District.
  • Hon. Onekalit Denis Amere, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Kitgum Municipality.
  • Hon. Karuhanga Gerald, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Ntungamo Municipality.
  • Hon. Aber Lillian, former Vice Guild President, on her re-election as Woman MP for Kitgum District.
  • Hon. Nyamutoro Phiona, former Vice Guild President, on her election as Woman MP for Nebbi District.

Makerere values dialogue, democracy, and responsible citizenship, and continues to make deliberate and progressive efforts to enhance participation in leadership and governance. We are confident they will serve with dedication, wisdom, and integrity.

We Build for the Future.

Mak Editor

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