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Prof Maria Musoke Hands over Mak Librarianship

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“After ten years of MakLib leadership, I am leaving on a happy note that l am greatly inspired by what I have been able to accomplish, the people I have met, the support I got from some University Administrators, Library Staff, Members of Senate, Council and the entire University.”

These were the inspirational and heartfelt words from Prof. Maria G. N. Musoke at her handover ceremony on 20th January 2015 in the Makerere University Main Library, presided over by the Manager and Head Pre Audit Section-Directorate of Internal Audit, Mr. Patrick Akonyet.  Prof. Maria Musoke handed over office to the Deputy University Librarian, Dr. Helen Byamugisha who will act as the University Librarian until a substantive head is appointed.

Prof. Maria Musoke expressed her gratitude to the Makerere University community for all the support and advice given to her during the ten years of service as University Librarian. She therefore promised to support her successor in any way possible for the betterment of the library and the university at large.

“I am really happy to say that the two terms I have been in office have played witness to great achievements in my life and the entire Makerere community. I am honored to announce that my contract for the second term in office ended on 13th  December 2014 and today I am handing over office to Dr. Byamugisha with all the confidence that she will be able to run the library to the best of her ability. I wish her luck and I am looking forward to seeing more developments and achievements in this great institution,” she said.

Prof. Maria Musoke started off her career as an acting Librarian at Albert Cook Medical library. She then rose to the rank of Senior Librarian in charge of Acquisitions and processing of Medical literature, and then Deputy Librarian in-charge of the Medical Library. She was thereafter appointed Senior Librarian in charge of Albert Cook Medical Library, and later Documentalist /Senior Librarian Makerere University Library.

She was appointed to her first term of office; 2004-2009 and re-appointed in 2010 for her second successive term; 2010-2014. Prof. Maria Musoke will always be heralded the first Ugandan woman to head the Makerere University Library, her predecessors being five men and a British lady. These included; Mr. James Mugasha (1977-2004), Mr. Tucker Lwanga (1968-1977), Mr. Glenn L. Sitzman (1966-1967), Mr. Eric J. Belton (1961-1966), Mr. H. Holdswoth (1956-1061) and Ms. J.E Later (1948-1955).

Prof Musoke a lady of many achievements.

Prof. Maria Musoke will always be remembered as a lady of many achievements for the two terms she served as Makerere University Librarian. Some of these include;

  • In 2005 the library extension project was embarked on in a phased manner, the first half of the extension was completed in 2007 with fundraising from Makerere University’s internally generated funds and officially opened on 4th August 2012 by The President H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
  • The new library building extension and various fundraising services improved the quality of library services through increased space for discussions and research. More ICT facilities for different categories of users are now provided by Makerere University Main Library.
  • Development of modern toilet facilities to match the large student population and for the first time the library users with disabilities got toilet facilities built according to international standards.
  • An extension of a fully stocked IDA section with a digital music archive of Ugandan music was set up for the first time in 2006. The archive includes audio files photographs, over 1500 digital songs of 1940s and 1950s, digitalized cassettes of ethnomusicology and other digital recordings preserved in the music archive.
  • Construction of a mothers’ space on level three for the expectant library staff and users to take a break with comfortable sofas and with cool air to provide a favorable relaxing environment.

Dr. Helen Byamugisha acknowledged her predecessor, Prof. Maria Musoke who blazed a trail of achievements over her ten years of service, “I commend the outgoing librarian for the tremendous work she has done for Makerere University, Your achievement and developments will forever be remembered in Makerere’s history. I am really grateful for the support and efforts that have seen improved relations between library staff and management.”

Story by:  Prossy Nabatte, Intern-Public Relations Office.

Photo by: Elias Tuhereze- Web Administrator, Public Relations Office.

Edited by: Ritah Namisango-Senior PRO, Public Relations Office

Additional sources of information

www.mulib.mak.ac.ug

Makerere University Library booklet; The ten years of increased visibility through innovations (2004-2014)

Proscovia Nabatte

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Press Statement: Clarification on Issues Raised During the Ongoing Conversations on the X Platform

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

Thursday, 06 February 2025

Makerere University Management has been keenly following the concerns raised on the X platform. As a public institution, we value constructive criticism and feedback as these present an opportunity to clarify issues and, in the process, enhance service delivery. However, the University Management has noticed several instances of disinformation and outright blackmail towards various University officers and would like to offer the following clarifications:

  1. Allegations of Solicitation of a Bribe by a Member of the University Council

The University Management received an audio recording in which a staff member is allegedly heard soliciting a bribe from colleagues to assist them in accessing higher positions during the recently concluded salary harmonization process. While the staff member in question is an elected representative of the support staff to the governing University Council, he is neither a member of the Appointments Board nor wields influence on its decisions.

Given the severity of the alleged offence and the position of the staff member, the University initiated immediate investigations and interdicted the staff member on Thursday 30th January 2025 to facilitate the investigation process. The staff member will be given an opportunity to present his case through a fair hearing before the Appointments Board.

  1. Appointment of Substantive Deputy Vice Chancellors

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Finance and Administration (DVC F&A) position became vacant after a legal challenge overturned the initial appointment and halted subsequent searches. After the appellant withdrew the cases, the University Council initiated a new search through the Senate. However, a contestant later petitioned, citing non-compliance with guidelines. The University Council referred the matter back to the Senate, which reviewed it on 12th December 2024. The revised report will be considered at the University Council meeting on 11th February 2025.

  1. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVC AA)

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVC AA) position became vacant on 30th November 2023 upon the end of the incumbent’s tenure. While the University Council was conducting an appraisal for possible reappointment, the DVC AA was appointed in an acting capacity. However, before the process concluded, a member of staff challenged the appraisal in court, making the matter sub judice. Consequently, the University Council deferred further consideration until the court resolves the case.

  1. Promotion Requirements for Associate Professors and Professors.

Academic staff promotions at Makerere University follow the Human Resources Manual (HRM), last amended in 2022. Policy changes are initiated by the Senate and take effect upon Council approval. Promotions are based on the criteria in place at the time, as recorded by the Senate and Council. All Associate Professors and Professors undergo rigorous assessment, including mandatory internal and external vetting by internationally recognized subject experts.

  1. Retirement of Associate Professors and Professors Post-60 Years

Makerere University mandates retirement at 60 in accordance with Ugandan law. To retain highly skilled talent, the University Council introduced a post-retirement contract policy under the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA). The Appointments Board grants or renews these contracts based on outstanding performance in teaching, research, grants, and mentorship, subject to available vacancies and wage funds. Before approval, the University Management assesses the impact on staff promotions, ensuring no disadvantage to qualifying staff within a particular Department.

  1. Membership and Leadership of the University Council and its Committees

The University Council membership is constituted in accordance with Section 38(1) of the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA), which outlines the criteria for appointing representatives from various constituencies, including the Government, staff, students, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), persons with disabilities, and Council appointees.

The constituents are responsible for managing the selection process for their respective representatives. University Council members serve four-year terms, which can be renewed by the respective constituents in accordance with Section 38(3) of the UOTIA. It is important to note that no Council member, current or former, has ever served beyond the period specified by law.

The University Council elects its Chairperson and Vice Chairperson in accordance with Section 39 of the UOTIA. Additionally, the Council establishes the Appointments Board and all its Committees in compliance with Section 43 of the UOTIA and Section 38 of the Council Charter.

  1. Recent Policy Reforms at the University

The University Council has implemented key reforms to enhance service delivery and staff accountability. These include a biometric staff attendance system and the digitalization of student services such as application, admission, registration, fee payment, exam records, and graduation. These measures have improved lecture attendance, expedited transcript issuance, and strengthened student support. University Management and the Appointments Board actively monitor staff performance to reward outstanding performance and ensure compliance.

  1. Disciplinary Processes and Actions Involving Some Staff Members

Makerere University enforces disciplinary policies in line with the Human Resources Manual, Public Service Standing Orders, and Ugandan law. Staff who violate these policies face sanctions such as warnings, suspensions, interdictions, and investigations, all conducted with due process before an Appointments Board hearing. Recently, two senior staff members—one a Council member and the other a School Dean were interdicted over allegations of corruption and non-performance. Their interdiction ensures independent investigations without undue influence.

  1. State of the University Infrastructure

With substantial support from the Government, Makerere University has made significant strides in enhancing its critical infrastructure for teaching, research, and student residences/welfare, alongside initiating new infrastructure projects.

Following the phased approach to renovate student halls of residence, the University Management is pleased to report that the renovation of Lumumba Hall was completed in 2024, while that of Mary Stuart Hall is ongoing. On completion of the renovation of Mary Stuart Hall, the Contractors will proceed to Complex Hall.

The University has constructed two (2) new buildings for the School of Law and School of Dentistry. The Main Building was reconstructed and commissioned by His Excellency the President on 2nd October 2024.

In addition, two (2) structures are currently under construction namely the School of Public Health and the vertical extension of the School of Women and Gender Studies. In addition to Government support, we continue to receive support from our partners for infrastructure enhancement.

We Build for the Future

Mak Editor

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Prof. Nawangwe urges young people to take up leadership in innovation for the transformation of Africa

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Participants at the Scholars Council meeting pose for a group photo with Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) in the Freedom Square. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By the Program Communication Team

On Sunday, February 2, 2025, Makerere University hosted the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation.

During the event, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe urged young people to prepare for leadership roles in innovation, especially starting with their communities, if they wish to see the positive transformation they desire in Africa.

 â€śI urge you to connect and network with your peers and discuss how you can form inter-university teams to innovate solutions that will address the development challenges in our communities for the transformation of the African continent.” Prof. Nawangwe remarked.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor, addressing the young people at the event. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor, addressing the young people at the event.

Prof. Nawangwe applauded the Mastercard Foundation for its partnership with Makerere University and Uganda in general, which has uplifting effects on many young people.

“Makerere University and Uganda have made remarkable strides in providing Higher Education to Young People, thanks to the generous support of the Mastercard Foundation, which has contributed significantly to educating the next generation of African leaders. Through valuable initiatives and partnerships, such as the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Makerere University is poised to continue educating young individuals who will significantly impact Uganda’s and Africa’s economic growth.” Prof. Nawangwe noted.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nawangwe, further urged young people to seize the opportunities the Mastercard Foundation and other like-minded development partners presented to improve their lives and communities.

Prof. Nawangwe, flanked by Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, and officials from Mastercard Foundation listening attentively to presentations by young people. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe, flanked by Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, and officials from Mastercard Foundation listening attentively to presentations by young people.

“The Mastercard Foundation has given you the platform and opportunity to be leaders and beacons of change. Embrace this responsibility with courage. Let the core values of the Scholars Program—humility, listening, kindness and respect, co-creation, and impact—guide your actions,” Prof. Nawangwe emphasized.

While speaking at the same event, the Program Director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, enumerated high-level achievements the Program had accomplished for the last decade at Makerere University. She pointed out that in terms of scholarship enrolment, the Program had recruited 1,032 Scholars, of which 76% were Females, 7% were Internationals, 4% were Refugees, and about 1% were Youth with Disabilities.

Prof. Namaalwa further pointed out other post-graduation achievements, including a 94% completion rate of the total number of Scholars enrolled in the Scholars Program. She pointed out that between 2018 and 2025, the Program had graduated 964 Scholars, of which 37% were employed, mainly in the private sector.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director, addressing the audience. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director, addressing the audience.

Prof. Namaalwa revealed that beyond the Scholars Program, the Mastercard Foundation had put other initiatives supporting the university in numerous ways. She pointed out other initiatives such as the e-learning initiative, a COVID-19 Response measure to ensure continuity of Teaching and Learning at Makerere University and the Climate Resilience and Sustainability Collaborative: Makerere University, in collaboration with the University of Ghana, the University of Cape Town, and the University of Cambridge, is implementing a new initiative that addresses one of the world’s most significant challenges in recent times—climate change.

Prof. Namaalwa revealed that the Research Collaborative would provide opportunities for MSc and PhD scholarships to African students and encourage young people to enrol as graduate students starting in the academic year 2025/2026.

The event was punctuated with fireside chats, during which young people had an opportunity to discuss a number of topical issues related to entrepreneurship and Transformative leadership. Thereafter, the visiting students were taken on a guided tour around Makerere University.

Mr. Enoch Muwanguzi one of the young entrepreneurs exhibiting a shoe brush he had made during a fire-side chat. Makerere University hosts the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council Representatives meeting, which brings together young people from around 45 partner universities of the Mastercard Foundation, 2nd February 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Enoch Muwanguzi one of the young entrepreneurs exhibiting a shoe brush he had made during a fire-side chat.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council comprises student leaders from partner Universities. Each Partner University has one Council Representative.  They represent the needs of Scholars and work with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program teams at each institution, the Mastercard Foundation, and Alumni.

Mak Editor

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CAES, CHS & CoVAB Receive Buses to Enhance Fieldwork, Outreaches

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Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, The three buses parked in the Freedom Square against the backdrop of the Main Building on 3rd February 2025. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

On Monday 3rd February 2025, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe handed over three (3) university buses to the respective leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB).

The new buses mark a significant improvement in mobility and learning for Makerere University students and staff, furthering the institution’s commitment to practical education and community service.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe speaks to the Media at the handover. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe speaks to the Media at the handover.

Speaking at the handover ceremony held at the University’s Freedom Square, Prof. Nawangwe highlighted the significance of the new buses in enhancing teaching and learning. “These buses will play a crucial role in improving students’ practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach,” he said.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) hands over the keys to CoVAB Principal-Prof. Frank N. Mwiine (Left) as Dr. Claire Mugasa (Right) witnesses. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) hands over the keys to CoVAB Principal-Prof. Frank N. Mwiine (Left) as Dr. Claire Mugasa (Right) witnesses.

Prof. Nawangwe expressed gratitude to the Parliament and the Government of Uganda for providing the resources for the new buses, emphasizing their importance in replacing the old fleet, which frequently breaks down. The new 2023 model buses, with a 67-seater capacity, were secured at a cost of UGX 626million each and are expected to save the university significant maintenance costs and improve the learning experience for students.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (3rd L) with the CAES Team from Left to Right: Prof. Donald Kugonza, Principal-Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, Dep. Principal-Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Dr. Revocatus Twinomuhangi, Dr. Lawrence Orikiriza, Ms. Suzan Kyamulabi and Dr. Mildred Ochwo-Ssemakula. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (3rd L) with the CAES Team from Left to Right: Prof. Donald Kugonza, Principal-Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, Dep. Principal-Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Dr. Revocatus Twinomuhangi, Dr. Lawrence Orikiriza, Ms. Suzan Kyamulabi and Dr. Mildred Ochwo-Ssemakula.

Principals from the respective colleges expressed their appreciation for the new buses. Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, Principal of CoVAB, emphasized the importance of the buses for practical training at locations such as Lake Mburo National Park. Associate Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, Principal of CAES, and Associate Prof. Bruce Kirenga, Principal of CHS, highlighted the buses’ role in facilitating community engagement and outreach.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) hands over the keys to CHS Principal-Prof. Bruce Kirenga (Left). Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hands over three (3) university buses to leadership in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the College of Health Sciences (CHS), and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) to improve students' practical learning experiences by ensuring reliable transportation for fieldwork and community outreach, 3rd February 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) hands over the keys to CHS Principal-Prof. Bruce Kirenga (Left).

He explained that the decision to purchase Isuzu buses instead of those manufactured by Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) a Makerere University partner, was based on prior engagement with the former, as well as the need to utilize the allocated funds promptly within the Financial Year, which couldn’t be accomplished at KMC due to their high demand.

Harriet Musinguzi

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