President Yoweri Museveni has re-affirmed his commitment to increasing the salaries of Academic Staff in public universities in the financial year 2015/16. The President was addressing a packed audience of Makerere University Staff and students in the Freedom Square on 12th September 2014, as the Visitor. His visit was part of a security awareness week as Uganda Police marks 100 years and also a fulfilment of his promise to meet Staff of Makerere University. His Excellency however emphasized that the increment will take effect on condition that higher education institutions revise their academic programmes to remain with a few that are most relevant.
“If you kindly rationalise the courses, I can assure you we have the money to support public universities. Each year we collect more taxes. This year we hope to collect 10,000bn and next year we may hit 12,000bn. We calculated and realized that provided we initially concentrate on the teaching staff and the lab attendants, the salary increment can be realized,” he asserted. His Excellency drew on the adage ‘he who fights everywhere fights nowhere,’ to emphasize that tackling the pay of all staff (academic and administrative) at the same time will not be possible in the coming year, but promised that the administrative staff will be looked into at a later date.
The President proposed that some degrees in disciplines like Conflict resolution, Women Studies, and Development studies could instead be treated as papers in sociology and political science. He praised the Department of Quantitative economics and the Department of Food Science and Technology, which he helped start at Makerere University, after he was consulted.
He made reference to the 21st August 2014, meeting he held with a delegation from Makerere University over Staff pay and the 10% fees increment and said, “What I told you will happen. Museveni is just not talking, what he says he does,” sending the Staff members into uncontrollable jubilation.
The Chairperson of MUASA, Dr. Kiggundu Musoke told the President that Makerere University Staff were indeed happy on hearing the news of the salary increment to the tune of 15million for a Professor. He added that the President’s advise will be followed as per the aforementioned meeting.
The President explained that he had initially ‘resisted’ demands for salary increments and new districts so as to support infrastructural development in the country, like roads, so as to lessen the costs of production and encourage exportation of local produce. He then called on students from Moroto, Moyo and Padibe, who attested to infrastructure development and presence of electricity in these areas now as opposed to the situation before. He said the country’s produce can now be exported to countries in the East Africa region, COMESA and the European Union. He further referred to the biblical book of Ecclesiastes that talks about a time for everything, adding that the time was right to look into remuneration of Staff in higher institutions of learning.
“I am very interested in having a high quality education system. I think it is time to stabilize, standardise and upgrade the quality of university education in Uganda. It is good but it can be better,” he said.
The new fees structure (10%)
In relation to the new fees structure of an additional 10% to first year students, the President said this strategy was not going to provide a lasting solution to Makerere University’s financial gap, thus the need for his intervention. “My approach is scientific, not emotional. I do not have time for emotions and sensationalism. You need so much more than the 2.4b from the additional fees increment to run the university. I said, let us look for a real solution. We shall get the 2.4b, even this year,” added the President.
Youth entrepreneurship
The President was glad that the youth, some of them Makerere University students had been trained in self defense tactics with the support of the Uganda Police during the security awareness week. He said they now needed to acquire entrepreneur skills too. “I want someone to put a dose of entrepreneurship in you. Kayihura should find someone to give you a paper on enterprises like value addition, services, ICT; that you can engage in and make some money. If you consider the Business Process Outsourcing (B.P.O) for instance, we can give you capital to rent some space for a call centre and you start that business.
The Guild President H.E. Bwowe also encouraged students to start businesses on their own from humble beginnings, like the famous Bill Gates did.
The Chancellor, Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera appreciated the President for his continued interest in the youth as the future generation and the improved relationship between Makerere University and the security forces. “The paradigm shift in the relationship between Makerere University and the security forces is revolutionary and should not be taken for granted. I also want to thank the students for realizing that civilised behavior calls for dialogue and not hooliganism,” he emphasized.
The Inspector General of Police, Gen. Kale Kayihura, asserted that the police has continuously embraced community policing and dialogue. He noted that his docket has since registered improvement in handing riotous situations at Makerere University by intervening as early as possible. “I want to thank you, Your Excellency because I have come to you several times in relation to issues in public universities and you have found solutions,” said the I.G.P.
The Periemeter wall
The Guild President, Ivan Bwowe pointed out that the many entrances to Makerere University are a security threat and make surveillance difficult. He requested President Museveni to support a perimeter wall around the main campus. H.E Museveni promised to look into this issue at a later date.
Earlier in the opening prayer, Rev. Geoffrey Byarugaba asked the Lord to grant President Museveni fortitude, virtue and grace to lead Uganda.
Dear Students; Class of 2025/2026 I am very delighted to welcome you to Makerere University. You are joining a Premier University and I hope you all are excited to start your new academic journey. We would like to first congratulate all of you for successfully overcoming the many challenges you have all faced, from completing high school to choosing a university and a study program and the extensive delays in the admission process you experienced.
As you are about to begin one of the most exciting times in your life, you should acknowledge and appreciate your efforts and achievements so far. I am aware that as a fresher, you are filled with hope and ambition, and I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the road that has brought you here. I know that you have worked hard and overcome many obstacles to reach this point. So, take a moment to savor this achievement and be proud of yourselves.
Now, as you step into the next phase of your lives, I want to remind you that this is a time of growth and exploration. You will face new challenges, make new friends, and gain experiences that will shape you into the person you will become. This is the time to embrace new opportunities, learn from your mistakes, and never stop growing.
I also want to emphasise the importance of hard work, determination, and resilience. These are the qualities that will help you overcome any obstacle and succeed in your endeavors. Remember to keep your focus on your goals and work towards them with determination. I encourage you to approach your studies with a growth mindset. This means that you believe that your abilities can be developed through hard work and perseverance. Remember that failure is not the end, but rather an opportunity to learn and grow.
Professor Buyinza Mukadasi (PhD) Academic Registrar
Makerere University, through the Makerere University Convocation (MUC), has hosted the first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit on Tuesday, 2nd September 2025. The historic event brought together alumni, Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), and stakeholders in a distinguished assembly aimed at re-imagining the university’s role in national and continental transformation.
The Convocation, which serves as a critical forum for foresight and life-transformational dialogue, unveiled five transformative points carefully crafted to transform Makerere from a symbolic “ivory tower” into an “impact tower” that influences the country and the world more than ever before.
Government Endorsement and Call to Action
The Chief Guest, Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, was represented at the event by the 3rd Deputy Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga. She conveyed warm greetings from H.E. the President of Uganda, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister.
She commended the Convocation for convening under the summit under a significant and timely theme: “Exploring the Opportunities for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Value Creation for Accelerated Socio-Economic Integration and Development of Sub-Saharan Africa.”
Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga.
She described the summit as not just a gathering but a journey and a call to action, urging academia, industry, and government to align efforts with Uganda’s and Africa’s transformation priorities.
Framing her remarks around the World Bank’s guiding principles—Trust, Humility, Inclusion, Collaboration, and Knowledge—she explained:
“Trust must be built between government, academia, and business… the gathering reflects the trust in CEOs and investors to walk this journey together.”
“Humility requires listening and learning, recognizing that no single institution has all the answers.”
“Inclusion reminds us that no youth, woman, or marginalized group should be left behind in transformation.”
“Collaboration is the currency of progress, necessary for solving complex challenges across sectors.”
“Knowledge remains our greatest asset, with Makerere University demonstrating its importance in moving from ivory towers to communities to transform lives.”
Current and Former Guild Leaders including Mr. Wilbrod Owor (CEO, Uganda Bankers Association) pose for a group photo with dignitaries.
She then unveiled a “massive transformation purpose”, commissioning five working teams led by CEOs and investors. The teams, nominated lead persons, and their respective objectives included:
From Ivory Tower to Impact Tower – Dr. Patricia Ojangole (UDB) with Patrick Ayota (NSSF), translating research into market-ready innovations.
Diaspora Dividend vs Brain Drain – Jennifer Bamuturaki (Uganda Airlines) with Michael Mugabi (Housing Finance Bank), harnessing diaspora capital, skills, and mentorship.
Intergenerational Knowledge Bridges – Fabian Kasi (Centenary Bank) with Ajay Kumar (Quality Chemicals), institutionalizing mentorship and reverse mentorship.
Climate and Infrastructure Leadership – Proscovia Nabbanja (UNOC) with Silver Mugisha (NWSC), anchoring research in energy security, green transition, and infrastructure.
Pan-African Digital and AI Advantage – Sylvia Mulinge (MTN Uganda) with Mumba Kalifungwa (Stanbic Bank), positioning Makerere as Africa’s digital and AI hub.
She pledged full government support, noting that the teams would convene in the Office of the President. “This summit is not ceremonial but a covenant,” she stressed.
The Minister’s Reflection
Hon. Balaam Barugahara, State Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development in charge of Children and Youth Affairs, emphasized that the summit was not a party but a process of transformation.
Hon. Balaam Barugahara gestures.
Drawing from personal experience, he recalled joining Makerere in 2000 and completing his degree in seven years due to balancing work, hustling for fees, and studying. He praised the university’s role in shaping his success and highlighted recent developments such as the renovation of Mary Stuart Hall and revamping the Main and Western gates, as milestones that have enhanced Makerere’s image. He equally applauded the curbing of staff and student unrest.
He noted that the summit aimed to facilitate networking, mentorship, career opportunities, and university development, signalling collective commitment to Uganda’s transformation.
Council’s Vision: A Legacy Re-imagined
Representing Makerere University Council Chairperson Ms. Lorna Magara, Prof. Sarah Ssali described the summit as a “historic alumni CEO investor round table” and a reaffirmation of Makerere’s role in Africa’s development. She described the university as a “cradle of leadership, innovation and resilience”, noting that the gathering’s objectives included fostering partnerships, showcasing research, launching a fundraising drive, and strengthening alumni engagement. Prof. Ssali emphasized that alumni relations must go beyond occasional financial contributions during events, to continuous communication and genuine relationships. “This summit marks the start of a journey, not just an isolated event,” she reechoed.
Prof. Sarah Ssali.
Vice Chancellor on Unlocking Makerere’s Potential
Reflecting on the theme of his bid for the Office of Vice Chancellor, “Unlocking the Potential of Makerere University,” Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe noted that while many only celebrate the absence of strikes, behind the calmness is a vibrant transformation.
He highlighted Makerere’s alumni strength, with over 20,000 CEOs globally, and underscored their contributions to Uganda’s economy, governance, health, sports, and research. “What would Uganda do without Makerere?” he pondered. Prof. Nawangwe quickly added that the moment was ripe for Makerere to collaborate more with diaspora alumni so as to tap into fast-evolving niches such as blockchain.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.
Convocation’s Strategic Role
MUC Chairperson CPA George Mugabi Turyamureeba outlined the Convocation’s mission to support the university’s growth and well-being. He highlighted innovations such as the Convocation House, the annual luncheon for first-class graduates and their parents, mentorship programs, and the MUC SACCO as initiatives that his team had established and promoted during the term so far. The Chairperson nevertheless urged the CEOs present to enable the Convocation have greater impact collaborating on existing as well as envisaged projects such as the Convocation Innovation Centre.
CPA George Turyamureeba.
Adding her voice, Vice Chairperson Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto urged participants—described as “movers and shakers” of Uganda’s economy—to ensure that their decisions today would be celebrated by future generations.
CPA George Turyamureeba (Right) and Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto (2nd Right) and members of the Convocation Team.
Keynote Address: The Journey’s Just Began
In his keynote, Dr. Peter Kimbowa, Founder and Board Chair of the CEO Summit and Makerere alumnus, congratulated his alma mater on the initiative and reaffirmed the Convocation’s strategic role.
He emphasized that the Round Table Summit should not be seen as a one-time event but as an ongoing journey, echoing American Football Player Jalen Hurts’ mantra: “There’s no arrival. Only the journey.” Dr. Kimbowa defined the Convocation as a community of leaders, alumni, and faculty united by heritage and vision. He described it as a bridge connecting:
The past to the future,
Business and industry to academia, and
Learning to market needs.
Dr. Peter Kimbowa.
He stressed that the Convocation’s ultimate goal was to transform Makerere into a self-sustaining engine of innovation, opportunity, and national transformation. Drawing on corporate insights, he challenged participants to always ask “what is the next opportunity?” and warned against complacency. He unpacked the massive transformation purpose structured around five working teams which MUC has developed, whereby corporate chief executives from Uganda are called upon to lead collaboration with the university. He highlighted the importance of mobilizing talent to connect with successful Ugandan alumni, underscoring the need for local CEOs to harness talent in the diaspora. He emphasized deliberate action, mobilization of global alumni talent, and collaboration between CEOs and the university to sustain transformation
Members of Management from Left to Right: Mr. Paul Agaba-Procurement and Disposal Unit, Mr. Simon Kizito-Deputy University Secretary, Prof. Robert Wamala-Director Research Innovations and Partnerships, and Prof. Ruth Nalumaga-University Librarian.
Panel Discussions and Triple Helix Framework
The day’s panel discussion featured Mr. Samuel Mwogeza (Executive Director, Stanbic Bank), Mr. Peter Sibukule (Headmaster, Busoga College Mwiri), Mr. Clovice Bright Irumba (Petroleum Authority of Uganda), and Ms. Grace Cherotich.
Mr. Mwogeza stressed the need to commercialize university prototypes and ideas. He explained that banks like Stanbic use their networks to strengthen innovators’ business cases, preparing them for market entry. Mr. Sibukule on the other hand called for transformation of mindsets right from secondary school level so that students are well primed to communicate, collaborate, uphold integrity and good work attitudes over qualifications in the marketplace. Mr. Irumba highlighted efforts by the PAU to create more opportunities for Ugandan entities to get involved in the oil and gas sector thanks to gaps highlighted by a study undertaken by the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC). Ms. Cherotich on the other hand invited CEOs to take interest in research outputs of the Makerere UniversityResearch and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) and reassured the audience of the Convocation’s readiness to provide a trusted platform for engagement with industry.
Panelists from Left to Right: Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto, Mr. Samuel Mwogeza, Mr. Peter Sibukule and Mr. Clovice Bright Irumba with Moderator-Dr. William Tayeebwa.
Contributing to the day’s discussion, Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo, Executive Director of the Uganda Vice Chancellors’ Forum (UVF), reminded the audience of the “Triple Helix” model and it’s underlying policy frameworks that in the recent past guided collaboration between universities, government, and the private sector. He observed Uganda’s lack of a robust framework, and called for policies that tie tax incentives to university support by corporations and other business entities.
Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo.
Proceedings
The inaugural edition of the summit was moderated by Dr. Tayeebwa William from the Department of Journalism and Communication who doubles as Managing Editor Makerere University Press and Dr. Viola Karungi from the Department of Performing Arts and Film (PAF).
Dr. Viola Karungi (Left) and Dr. William Tayeebwa (Right).
The PAF team took charge of the leading the anthems and day’s entertainment, which included a poetic presentation of the Makerere University Anthem.
The Office of Academic Registrar, Makerere University has released the admission list of candidates admitted under the Disability and District Quota Schemes with Government sponsorship 2025/26 Academic Year.
Kindly follow the links below to access the lists:-