Connect with us

General

MAK partners with ACCA to offer professional courses

Published

on

Makerere University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Uganda aimed at producing highly competitive graduates for the market.   

Through this mutually beneficial partnership, Makerere University (MAK) will work with ACCA Uganda to deliver professional courses; train and produce professional accountants; and high quality Bachelor of Commerce graduates.

 “Today, Friday 10th October 2014, Makerere University is becoming one of the major partners of ACCA in delivering professional courses. Makerere University in general and the College of Business and Management Sciences in particular are answering the demands of the market.  In addition to training, and equipping students with knowledge and skills, we are integrating professional courses in the Bachelor of Commerce so that we produce a highly competitive graduate,” said Dr. Umar Kakumba, Dean-School of Business, College of Business and Management Sciences at Makerere University.

Dr. Kakumba shared that they have started with professionalizing the Bachelor of Commerce academic programme, but the team in the College of Business and Management Sciences is focused on a long-term plan to partner with respected bodies/institutions so as to professionalise all academic programmes offered at the College. With the MAK and ACCA Uganda partnership, the students majoring in Accounting will have acquired 80% of the professional accounting at the time of completion of Bachelor of Commerce.

With regard to the internationalization agenda as stipulated in the Makerere University Strategic Plan, Dr. Kakumba applauded ACCA Uganda for linking the Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) to ACCA Global, which initiatives will foster internationalization of the curricula and academic outputs.

In her address, the Head of ACCA Uganda, Ms Beatrice M. Isagayite emphasized the need for partnerships and pointed out that ACCA has over 80 working partnerships with universities in China, over 20 partnerships with universities across sub-Saharan Africa, and equally commended Makerere University for coming on board.

“The major purpose of this partnership is to promote sustainable development in the Accounting profession. We need partners like Makerere University. Makerere University is important to us. Makerere University is one of the top ten (10) universities that contribute most students joining ACCA.  We have therefore had a symbiotic relationship, which we are sealing today through this MOU,” she remarked.

Ms Isagayite said that ACCA founded in 1904 and MAK founded in 1922 have rich history and share common values. The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is the global professional accounting body offering the Chartered Certified Accountant qualification and over the years, both MAK and ACCA have greatly contributed to imparting knowledge and economic development of Uganda and the world over.

“At ACCA, we believe that accountants bring value to economies in all stages of development. We aim to develop capacity in the profession and encourage adoption of consistent global standards. Our values are aligned to the needs of employers in all sectors and we ensure that, through our qualifications, we prepare accountants for business…This is achieved through partnerships like the one we are entering into with Uganda’s premier university,” she said.[L-R] Ms Beatrice M. Isagayite, Mr Martin Bakundana, Dr Umar Kakumba and Dr. Bernadette Nambi Karuhanga.

On behalf of the team that has been working diligently to restructure and review the curricula, Dr. Bernadette Nambi Karuhanga, Head-Department of Accounting and Finance said:

“Two years ago, our department chose to professionalise her academic programmes. Premised on our core value of innovativeness, we decided to team up with professional bodies. We are thus shifting from the current scenario where a student completes Bachelor of Commerce and joins another body to acquire a professional course. The MAK and ACCA Uganda partnership will ensure that our Bachelor of Commerce students acquire 80% of the professional courses.”

Dr. Nambi Karuhanga explained that through this consultative process, they have aligned the curriculum to the professional requirements, and next academic year 2014/2015, they will follow the reviewed curriculum to deliver a professional product/accountant.

The Ag. Principal, CoBAMS, Dr. Eria Hisali congratulated the School of Business for initiating the partnership with ACCA Uganda and highlighted the initiatives being undertaken by CoBAMS to improve on the quality of her graduates.

“To have a competitive edge in the labour market, we are continuously reviewing our curriculum, our students undertake internship/field attachment, and we are also collaborating with international agencies in the delivery of academic programmes,” he said.

Dr. Hisali advised the MAK and ACCA Uganda team to maximize the synergies presented by the partnership.  “In addition to training and professionalism, consider working within your mandate to undertake joint research, joint community outreach programmes, and joint staff exchanges.”

He thanked the Office of the Vice Chancellor, which was represented by Ms Ritah Namisango, the Senior Public Relations Officer, as well as the MAK Legal Office for the support in the realization of the MAK-ACCA partnership.

The ACCA Uganda team comprised: Ms Beatrice M. Isagayite, Ms Charlotte Kukunda, Ms Dorothy Mutabaazi, Mr. Emmanuel Siiya and Ms Martha Nakayima.

The MAK CoBAMS team comprised:  Dr. Eria Hisali, Dr. Umar Kakumba, Dr. Nambi Karuhanga, Dr. Godfrey Akileng, Mr. Martin Bakundana and Mr. Chris Muganga.

 

Written by:  Ms Ritah Namisango, Public Relations Office

Elias Tuhereze

Continue Reading

Business & Management

PIM Centre Holds 9th Steering Committee Meeting, Set to Benefit from World Bank Support

Published

on

Mak PIM COE Steering Committee

The Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence at Makerere University today, October 10th, 2025, held its 9th Steering Committee Meeting to review progress made in the first quarter of the financial year and plan for the months ahead.

The meeting was chaired by Ms. Getrude Basiima, who represented Mr. Hannington Ashaba, Director Budget at the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED). Ms. Basiima commended the Centre for its continued commitment to strengthening public investment management capacity across government institutions.

In her remarks, Ms. Basiima applauded the Centre for successfully hosting the Public Investment Management Conference held in August at Makerere University. The conference attracted key policymakers, development partners, and academics who deliberated on how to enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and impact of public investments in Uganda.

She further shared exciting news that the Government of Uganda has secured funding from the World Bank to support the public investment management function. The PIM Centre, she announced, will be among the key beneficiaries of these funds — receiving support for the construction and acquisition of a permanent home to enhance its institutional sustainability and training capacity.

Reviewing the Centre’s quarterly performance, Ms. Basiima congratulated the team for successfully conducting three specialized trainings in the first quarter, reaching officials from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. These trainings continue to strengthen the technical competencies required for effective project preparation, appraisal, and implementation in line with Uganda’s National Development Plan.

The PIM Steering Committee in a meeting held at Emin Pasha Hotel

She encouraged the Centre to integrate climate change considerations into its future training programmes, noting that sustainable public investment must now account for environmental resilience and climate adaptation.

The centre team presented the proposed  structure/ organogram, the financial performance of 2024/2025, research areas for 2025/2026 and the strategic plan for 2025 – 2030.

The Steering Committee reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the PIM Centre’s vision of becoming a regional leader in building capacity for efficient, transparent, and sustainable public investment management.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

Continue Reading

General

Strengthening Collaboration between Makerere University and the University of Groningen

Published

on

Seated: Prof. Sarah Ssali (C), Dr. Dinie Bouwman (L) and Dr. Anita Veltmaat (R) with teams from Makerere University and the University of Groningen during the meeting on 7th October 2025. Strategic meeting between Makerere University and the University of Groningen, Netherlands to move beyond existing collaborations and formalize a new Double Doctorate (PhD) program, 7th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

A significant development unfolded at Makerere University during a strategic, hour-long meeting in the vice chancellor’s boardroom on 7th October 2025, marking a deepening bond with the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. The primary goal was to move beyond existing collaborations and formalize a new Double Doctorate (PhD) program. Prof. Sarah Saali, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, set the tone by emphasizing that institutional partnerships are crucial to Makerere University, which she proudly called the leading research and most collaborative university in the world.

The parties from Makerere University and the University of Groningen meeting in the Vice Chancellor's Boardroom. Strategic meeting between Makerere University and the University of Groningen, Netherlands to move beyond existing collaborations and formalize a new Double Doctorate (PhD) program, 7th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The parties from Makerere University and the University of Groningen meeting in the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom.

The discussion promptly formed the core structure of the program: a four-year PhD (or three if the master’s was research-based), with supervision duties split 50-50% between the two institutions. A key feature is the mobility requirement, stipulating that PhD candidates would spend a total of six months in the Netherlands, potentially divided into two three-month periods. Crucially, the University of Groningen confirmed there would be no teaching requirement during this stay, allowing students full access to focus on their research. A major financial hurdle was overcome with the adoption of a fee-waiver policy; Makerere would waive tuition for incoming Groningen candidates, and Groningen would reciprocate for Makerere‘s students, significantly boosting the program’s financial viability.

Prof. Sarah Ssali (R) presents a Mak Souvenir to Dr. Anita Veltmaat. Strategic meeting between Makerere University and the University of Groningen, Netherlands to move beyond existing collaborations and formalize a new Double Doctorate (PhD) program, 7th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali (R) presents a Mak Souvenir to Dr. Anita Veltmaat.

However, the critical issue of the stipend remained. Dr. Anita Veltmaat explained that to meet the required living standard of approximately €1,875 per month in Groningen, the incoming candidate must secure a partial external scholarship of around €250 per month. The positive news is that if the candidate secures this minimum scholarship, the University of Groningen is prepared to top up the amount to the full living standard for the six months the student spends in the Netherlands. It was noted that this initial financial hurdle might be simplified for Makerere students, as many are already staff members receiving a salary, which could help cover the required €250.

The meeting in session. Strategic meeting between Makerere University and the University of Groningen, Netherlands to move beyond existing collaborations and formalize a new Double Doctorate (PhD) program, 7th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The meeting in session.

The path forward was clear: it was to complete the agreement template guided by the setup committee from both institutions. The plan culminated in scheduling an online follow-up meeting for Tuesday, November 11th, to review the first revision of the agreement, capping a highly constructive discussion that solidified the two universities’ shared future in graduate education.

The Team from Makerere University from Left to Right: Dr. Ruth Nsibirano, Dr. Racheal Nuwagaba, Dr. Patricia Ndugga, Dr. Stella Achen, Dr. Joseph Watuleke, and Ms. Agatha Ainemukama. Strategic meeting between Makerere University and the University of Groningen, Netherlands to move beyond existing collaborations and formalize a new Double Doctorate (PhD) program, 7th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Team from Makerere University from Left to Right: Dr. Ruth Nsibirano, Dr. Racheal Nuwagaba, Dr. Patricia Ndugga, Dr. Stella Achen, Dr. Joseph Watuleke, and Ms. Agatha Ainemukama.

Makerere University was represented by Prof. Sarah Ssali, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academics Affairs; Dr. Ruth Nsibirano, Head of the Department of Gender Studies; Dr. Patricia Ndugga, School of Statistics; Dr. Stella Achen and Dr. Joseph Watuleke, School of Distance and Lifelong Learning; Agatha Ainemukama, School of Engineering; Racheal Nuwagaba, School of Psychology; Awel Uwihanganye, Martine Rugamba, and Hawa Ndagire from the Advancement Office; and Muhammad Kiggundu from the Institute of Gender and Development Studies.

Prof. Sarah Ssali (R) presents a Mak Souvenir to Mrs. Alette Arendshorst. Strategic meeting between Makerere University and the University of Groningen, Netherlands to move beyond existing collaborations and formalize a new Double Doctorate (PhD) program, 7th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali (R) presents a Makerere Souvenir to Mrs. Alette Arendshorst.

The University of Groningen was represented by Dr. Dinie Bouwman, Senior Policy Advisor, Internationalization and Quality Assurance; Dr. Anita Veltmaat, Faculty of Social Behavior and Social Sciences, Department of International Studies, involved in mentorship programs for women; and Dr. Alette Arendshorst, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, working on graduation/collaboration for students/staff.

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

Makerere and Nelson Mandela University Move to Actualize Existing MoU

Published

on

Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta (6th L) and Prof. Azwinndini Muronga (5th L) with the delegation from NMU and officials from Makerere after the meeting on 7th October 2025. Delegation from Nelson Mandela University (NMU), South Africa meeting with officials from Makerere University on 7th October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University on Tuesday, 7th October 2025 hosted a delegation from Nelson Mandela University (NMU), South Africa in the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom in a bid to strengthen academic partnerships and operationalize their existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The delegation, led by Prof. Azwinndini Muronga, Deputy Vice Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Internationalisation, NMU, aimed to turn earlier agreements into actionable collaborations and build sustainable partnerships with various colleges.

The Acting (Ag.) Deputy Vice Chancellor; Finance and Administration, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, provided an overview of the institution’s structure—nine colleges, two schools, and two institutes—while acknowledging the challenges of maintaining excellence amid resource limitations and post-pandemic recovery. He emphasized that collaboration must serve the broader goal of research-driven development, calling for teamwork and resilience among African universities. “We have to work together to sustain high academic standards and contribute to the continent’s progress,” he noted.

Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta (L) presents a Mak necktie to Prof. Azwinndini Muronga (R). Delegation from Nelson Mandela University (NMU), South Africa meeting with officials from Makerere University on 7th October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta (L) presents a Mak necktie to Prof. Azwinndini Muronga (R).

Prof. Muronga spoke passionately about the NMU’s “African footprint agenda.” He urged both institutions to start with small, practical projects that can build confidence and momentum for larger initiatives.  “We must grow partnerships within Africa first,” he stated, “before we expand globally. True collaboration begins when both sides contribute equally, share capacity, and build self-reliance.”

Prof. Muronga also expressed interest in joint research projects, doctoral supervision, and shared grant applications, noting that NMU and Makerere are strategically positioned to lead regional academic innovation.

In her remarks, Prof. Judy Peter, Senior Director in the International Office at NMU emphasized the University’s commitment to African-centered collaboration and the importance of internationalizing the curriculum and expanding research capacity.

Prof. Peter underscored the importance of student mobility, joint supervision of postgraduate students, and the recruitment of talented African scholars, noting that such exchanges enrich both institutions’ academic communities. She also emphasized the need to internationalize the curriculum, particularly through virtual learning platforms and co-teaching models, to ensure broader accessibility and shared expertise.

Contributions also came from Prof. James Wokadala, Deputy Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), further amplified the need to “start small and build on existing collaborations.” He proposed developing a clear roadmap that defines short-term goals and identifies areas for mutual growth.

From the College of Health Sciences, Dr. Richard Idro, the Deputy Principal highlighted opportunities for fellowship, training and collaboration in clinical subjects, emphasizing the need for practical exchanges that benefit students and staff alike. He also addressed logistical challenges such as transportation and coordination, urging for targeted partnerships that can yield tangible results.

Some of the Makerere officials that attended the meeting from Left to Right: Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Dr. Richard Idro, Prof. James Wokadala, Prof. Eric Awich Ochen, and Prof. Godfrey Akileng. Delegation from Nelson Mandela University (NMU), South Africa meeting with officials from Makerere University on 7th October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the Makerere officials that attended the meeting from Left to Right: Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Dr. Richard Idro, Prof. James Wokadala, Prof. Eric Awich Ochen, and Prof. Godfrey Akileng.

The meeting reaffirmed the universities’ commitment to collaboration in areas including faculty exchange for guest lectures, seminars, and sabbaticals; joint research and grant applications for regional and international funding; co-supervision of postgraduate students; virtual classroom exchanges; curriculum internationalization and exchange of academic materials; and capacity development for academic and administrative staff.

The teams also identified “quick-win” projects that could be implemented in the short term and agreed to establish a joint implementation team to monitor progress. Further discussions will explore funding mechanisms, including the possibility of leveraging programs like Erasmus+, to support student exchange and joint research initiatives.

In his closing remarks, Prof. Muronga reaffirmed Nelson Mandela University’s commitment to ensuring that the partnership yields visible outcomes. Both universities agreed that future engagements will be structured around mutual respect, accountability, and measurable results.

The meeting concluded on a note of optimism, with both institutions expressing confidence that their partnership will not only advance academic excellence but also contribute to Africa’s broader vision of educational and research self-reliance.

The meeting was attended by several officials from Makerere including; Prof. Eric Awich Ochen-Deputy Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze-Deputy Principal, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Prof. Godfrey Akileng-Dean School of Business, Dr. Geoffrey Nuwagaba-CoBAMS, Mr. Martine Rugamba-Ag. Chief Advancement Office, and Ms. Hawa Kajumba-Advancement Office.

Eve Nakyanzi

Continue Reading

Trending