General
Mak DHR Honours Mr. Bazanye Nkangi
Reflecting on his 35 years of service, Mr. Godfrey Bazanye Nkangi confessed that the time he has spent at Makerere University has granted him a profound experience that greatly changed his life and family.
“Looking back on my years at Makerere University I have no regrets, only learning experiences that made me a better person, I have been lucky enough to have what I call the best job and I will walk away from it with great memories,” remarked Mr. Bazanye Nkangi, Deputy University Secretary (Pensions).
Mr. Bazanye Nkangi joined the University service in 1980. He has served in the following positions: Administrative Assistant (1980-1985); Assistant Registrar (1985-1989); Senior Assistant Registrar-Admissions and Records (1989-1990); Deputy Registrar-Admissions and Records (1990-2005); and Deputy University Secretary-Pensions (2005 to date). He committed himself to the noble duty of building for the future, and has over the years significantly contributed his expertise to the realisation of the University’s vision and mission.
Cognizant of the fact that Mr. Bazanye Nkangi would retire from the University service on 12th September 2015, the members of staff in the Directorate of Human Resources generously contributed resources and treated their own, Mr. Bazanye Nkangi and his family, to a surprise farewell party held on 10th September 2015 at the Makerere University Guest House.
The Guest of Honour, Mr. Bazanye Nkangi accompanied by his dear wife, two sons and daughter, were humbled when they arrived at the colourful ceremony.
On arrival, you could feel the breeze of the Makerere University Hill, the ever green Makerere University Guest House Gardens blending so well with the table linen, the members of staff dressed to impress, with wine flowing like a river, plenty of eats and soft drinks, and tactfully selected music to reflect on the 35 years of dedicated service!
With his charming smile, Mr. Bazanye Nkangi said: “Thank you so much to all of you who thought that it was worthy for me being honoured this way. I am excited, humbled, overwhelmed for being honoured this way. Yesterday, I had a presentation, which was part of my handover, but no one in the Directorate of Human Resources mentioned the party. I have appreciated the level of secrecy. This party has truly expressed something unique. That you do really appreciate my efforts and service.”
He revealed to the audience that he succeeded in his career because he was always willing to embrace change, which presented him with opportunities to provide service in critical units of the university. Reflecting on his service in the Department of the Academic Registrar and later on his re-designation in 2005 to the Directorate of Human Resources (Deputy University Secretary-Pensions), Mr. Bazanye Nkangi shared that he enjoyed interacting with people from different walks of life, noting that every interaction brought forth learning experiences.
“I appreciate the years we have been together and I am really glad to have worked with search kind hearted people. There is nothing as good as working with cooperative people,” he added.
The Chief Convener of the surprise farewell party, who is also Mr. Bazanye Nkangi’s immediate supervisor, Mrs. Mary Tizikara applauded Mr. Bazanye Nkangi for his intelligence, energy and zeal, and integrity.
“We respect you for your intelligence, energy and high level of integrity. He is cautious when conducting university business. He follows policies and you will never make him do what he is not supposed to do,” said Mrs. Tizikara.
“We know that Mr. Bazanye Nkangi was working in a challenging office. He has mentored members of staff, and he informed us that he was ready to retire. However, in the Departmental meeting, we agreed that we will be consulting you on a number of issues,” she highlighted.
Mrs. Tizikara utilised the same opportunity to answer the puzzle from the Master of Ceremony, Mr. Lebo Julius, Senior Performance Officer in the Directorate of Human Resources who kept on wondering why Mr. Bazanye Nkangi was clocking 60 years, but looked young and energetic.
“Mr. Bazanye Nkangi looks young and energetic because of the love and support from Mrs. Edith Bazanye. We give credit to Madam, thank you for supporting him,” remarked the Director, Human Resources amidst applause from the audience.
On behalf of the staff in the Directorate Human Resources, the Senior Human Resource Officer, Ms Josephine Apolot Opolot said that Mr. Bazanye Nkangi will always be remembered as a person who gives credit to where it deserves; someone with the ability and capability of maintaining relationships with co-workers and a proficient person in team work building.
“Mr. Bazanye is always a serious person but he has never stopped wearing that smile on his face. A person with integrity, trust worthy, working with firmness amidst all situations,” she said.
“When wealth is lost nothing is lost. When health is lost something, something has been lost. When character is lost everything is lost. Your noble character will always be admired and remembered and as you leave Makerere University,” she remarked.
In the context of the surprise farewell party, some of the surprise guests present included: The Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu; the Acting University Secretary-Mr. Charles Barugahare; the Acting University Librarian-Dr. Helen Byamugisha; Senior Legal Officer-Mr. Goddy Muhumuza and the Senior Public Relations Officer, Ms Ritah Namisango.
Mr. Barugahare congratulated Mr. Bazanye Nkangi upon reaching his retirement age and thanked him for dedicating his time to serve Makerere University community.
“The University appreciates your efforts and we are grateful for the mentorship you have given to our staff. I believe you have already mentored the person who is going to succeed you. We appreciate the kind heart you have showed us all along,” he said. He then presented to him a special gift- a token of appreciation for the good work.
On behalf of the Makerere University community, and the surprise guests present, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu commended Mr. Bazanye Nkangi for his selfless service, which included working in some of the most challenging offices. I thank you for resilience, ability to remain calm and principled.
“We are very grateful for the service you have rendered, may the good Lord bless you abundantly for all the energies you have put in to see to it that the University achieves it vision and mission. Thank you for having a big heart. You have been working in one of the most challenging office here, but I appreciate the way you have handled and contained all the situations. I know that you have at times been blamed for matters beyond your control, but you remained principled and strictly followed policies of the University,” he remarked.
“I must admit that we have not been able to bid farewell to a number of staff due to the financial challenges faced by the University. I remain optimistic that when the financial situation improves, the University Management will consider this aspect of recognizing and officially bid farewell to staff who diligently serve this great institution,” said the Vice Chancellor.
Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu who thanked the members of staff in the Directorate of Human Resources for extending to him an invitation to attend the surprise farewell party, drew the audience into laughter, when he highlighted to everyone present; that the special gift he was presenting to Mr. Bazanye Nkangi was from Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu-the surprise guest, and not the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University.
Emotionally touched by the level of secrecy that climaxed with the surprise farewell party, Mr. Bazanye Nkangi urged his workmates to always keep secrets, conduct university business with the highest level of confidentiality, and to respect everyone in their execution of duty. Mr. Bazanye Nkangi emphasised that confidentiality at the work place does not only win trust and cooperation among workmates but also projects a favourable image of the organisation among its publics.
He equally cautioned the workers to always be careful when dealing with people at their work place, saying that some of them could have ill intentions that could tarnish their reputation.
“We should always know the people we are working with. The years I have spent in Makerere University, I have learnt people’s behaviours and this has saved me from many problems,” he said emphatically.
Speaking about Mr. Bazanye Nkangi, his jovial wife, Mrs Edith Bazanye said: “My husband is a loving and caring gentleman who always considers his family as the first priority. I consider myself among the lucky wives in this country; you have been there and still there for us Mr. Bazanye. You are the greatest gift God sent to us. We love you so much.”
Giving the vote of thanks, Mr. Bazanye Nkangi’s daughter, Mrs. Lindah Mpanga thanked Makerere University and the Directorate of Human Resources for loving their Dad.
“The love you have showed my Dad can never be underestimated. We are really grateful and I believe my Dad will testify this love and care to his grandchildren,” she remarked.
The Labour and Welfare Officer in the Directorate of Human Resources, Ms. Janet Nabukeera thanked all the members who voluntarily contributed toward the success of the farewell party in form of finances and advice. “We have assembled here because you contributed to this worthy cause of honouring our very own. Everyone is happy. The act of giving is good, thank you for this generous support. May God bless you,” she said.
Mr. Bazanye Nkangi opened the dance with his dear wife, joined by his children, invited guests and members of staff from the Directorate of Human Resources. The tactfully selected music comprised songs with irresistible rhythms that forced many on the dance flow.
Written by: Ritah Namisango and Proscovia Nabatte, Mak Public Relations Office
Business & Management
Mak and ACCA Career Workshop: Students tipped on success, professionalism and the future of accountancy
On Tuesday 1st April 2025, over600 students from the College of Business and Management Sciences convened at Makerere University Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium to participate in the Career workshop that provided an invaluable platform for students to engage with industry leaders, gain insights into career prospects and professional development within the accounting and finance sectors.
Organized by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in Uganda in partnership with Makerere University Department of Accounting and Finance, School of Business under the College of Business and Management Sciences, the Career workshop also presented a platform to celebrate the academic achievements of the ten (10) Bachelor of Commerce students who graduated with First Class degrees-Honours Division during the Makerere University 75th Graduation ceremony held in January 2025.
Prior to the workshop, the Dean, School of Business, Dr. Godfrey Akileng in an interview with the College’s Communication Office, disclosed that celebrating the academic achievements of the students who obtained First Class degrees would inspire the current students to excel. In addition, Dr. Akileng noted that the presence of graduates who excelled at the Career workshop would lead to networking and peer mentorship possibilities with the current students.
During the Career workshop, speakers from Makerere University and ACCA Uganda re-affirmed their commitment to equipping graduates with the knowledge, skills and tools needed to excel in a rapidly evolving job market.
To understand the future of accountancy, students listened to presentations featuring the relevance of the accounting and finance in today’s job market by Dr. Eric Nzibonera; Insights on the collaboration with ACCA by Ms Charlotte Kukunda; Discussion of the global career opportunities in accounting and how ACCA supports professional development by Ms Jackie Mbabazi; and a keynote speech titled, An exploration of the skills and trends shaping the future of the accounting and finance industries in the 21st Century by Mr. Robert Busuulwa.
In his address, the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences, Prof. Edward Bbaale acknowledged the School of Business for proritising career talks and mentorship sessions for students.
“To the students, the Career workshop presents you with a chance to envision your career, and what you want to be, or what you want to study,” he said.
The Principal underscored the critical importance of bridging the gap between the academia and industry. He highlighted the instrumental role of partnerships, particularly the collaboration between Makerere University and ACCA in equipping students with globally competitive skills and certifications.
Prof. Bbaale emphasized that in the 21st century, this interface isn’t merely an option but “a necessity,” echoing the sentiments of both the keynote speaker, Mr. Robert Busuulwa, and ACCA partners.
He advised students to visualise themselves as “global candidates” and pursue their careers with diligence and passion, taking the lessons from the workshop seriously and seeking continuous professional development. Prof. Bbaale stressed the significance of “building oneself, moulding oneself” through education, training, and experience, advocating for a focus on human capital development over immediate financial gain.
He emphasized the importance of “volunteering to work” in orderto gain experience and build a professional network. He reaffirmed the College’s commitment to strengthening collaborations to ensure graduates are academically competent and well-prepared to navigate the evolving job market.
Dr. Eric Nzibonera, the Head, Department of Accounting and Finance at the College of Business and Management Sciences highlighted the significance of career guidance events for University students. He explained that career workshops provide a valuable opportunity for students to “make a choice about a particular career,” a privilege he noted was not always available to students in the past. Dr. Nzibonera believed the workshop was a chance for students to learn from experienced professionals, guiding them towards informed decisions about their future careers.
Convinced that the workshop presented a golden opportunity to students to learn from experienced professionals, Dr. Nzibonera called upon students to leverage such moments to listen to the respective presenters, prepare to ask questions on professionalism, accreditation and career paths.
Focusing on the relevance of accounting and finance in today’s job market, Dr. Nzibonera reiterated that the accounting profession is very central in the day to day lives of individuals. “Inall realms of business, in whatever you do, you need some scheme or some kind of accounting that works,” he remarked. He noted that this underlines the universal applicability of financial literacy, whether pursuing careers directly related to the field.
The Country Manager, ACCA Uganda, Ms Charlotte Kukunda informed the students who turned up in big numbers, that the Career workshop was anchored in the programmes and activities that Makerere University and ACCA Uganda agreed to undertake when both entities signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in July 2022.
Ms Kukunda affirmed that ACCA Uganda values its strategic partnership with Makerere University, which has been mutually beneficial and fruitful. To expound this argument, Ms Kukunda highlighted the achievements which included: 660 students enrolled for ACCA programme, curriculum reviews of Makerere University accounting programmes, re-accreditation of the Bachelor of Commerce Accounting in June 2022, annual recognition of best accounting students since 2022, tutor capacity building workshops conducted at the College, lecturers granted access to the Education Hub, and hosting of three student career workshops annually.
She outlined the areas of collaboration with Makerere University as follows: accreditation of accounting programmes, co-development of teaching programmes that align and support the University edge resources and professional insights, employability through supporting students’ career and skills development, access to ACCA member networks to support Makerere University guest lectures/panels/conference speakers, and faculty skills development support in their teaching, learning and assessment.
The Country Manager said the Career workshop is planned, deliberate and intentional because ACCA classifies Makerere University students as strategic business leaders who are being nurtured, trained and prepared to drive the economy. She clarified that the ACCA programme is not limited to only students studying accounting. According to Ms Kukunda, the ACCA programme embraces a broader range of disciplines and positions students for global competitiveness.
Ms. Kukunda encouraged students to explore the information resources on the ACCA website to tap into the opportunities that will enhance their financial acumen. She urged students to perceive themselves as global citizens. “When you perceive yourself as that, you are the right candidate for pursuing these globally accredited qualifications,” she said. She reinforced the value of connections and valuable networks with industry professionals, assuring students that their future is filled with potential and opportunities.
Feeding into Ms Kukunda’s presentation, Ms Jackie Mbabazi, the Business Relationship Manager at ACCA Uganda highlighted the significance of the ACCA qualification in shaping future leaders. She affirmed that ACCA is “a forward-thinking qualification” connected to vital sectors and stakeholders globally.
Ms. Mbabazi emphasized the global reach of the ACCA. “We are present in 180 countries. As you plan your professional journey, consider the ACCA qualification that is going to make you professional. Technology has enabled us to work beyond borders. Having globally recognized qualifications such as ACCA positions you to work globally,” she elaborated.
Ms. Mbabazi further pointed out the “forward-thinking qualification” attributes of ACCA. These include: Empowering individuals to be digitally relevant, creating ethical and trusted professionals, global recognition, professionals who add value, access to the most up to date syllabus on the market, and continuous learning for trainees as well as access to the global employability platform.
She also discussed the importance of adapting to technological advancements, stating, “You need to adapt and make sure technology is at the heart of what you are doing.”
Ms. Mbabazi articulated that ethics is at the centre of the ACCA programme. “ACCA programmes uphold ethics in building professionals. I urge you to avoid any form of fraud,” she emphasized.
The captivating presentations from the College of Business and Management Sciences and ACCA Uganda set the pace for the students to listen to a powerful keynote speech. Dr. Martin Bakundana introduced the keynote speaker, Mr. Robert Busuulwa, the founder and Managing Partner of Forvis Mazars in Uganda with over 30 years of tested and proven experience.
Mr. Robert Busuulwa’s keynote speech embodied words of wisdom and lived experiences that require an individual to be responsible for his or her destiny.
He guided the students that being successful is a personal choice and commitment. “If you want to be successful, dedicate time and study success,” he advised.
“When you plan to do something, focus and concentrate. Pursue your ambitions and career aspirations with determination and confidence,” he added.
He castigated the popular phrase where individuals believe that it is the government responsible for their success and development. That statements calling upon the government to “assist” individuals should be discarded. “True liberation is about understanding who you are, your strengths and weakness, and what you can do as an individual to leverage your strength,” he stated.
He emphasized the importance of acquiring relevant skills, urging students to consider what they needed to demonstrate to future employers, particularly in light of evolving trends such as AI, robotics, and big data. “What are the skills that you are expected to demonstrate?” he asked, reflecting on the broadening scope of skills in the field.
Using lively examples, the keynote speaker informed the audience that he had to create time to be at Makerere University on 1st April 2025 to speak to the students. He reported that he manages a very tight schedule, but if you want and value something, you work towards it, and ensure it is a possibility.
“I am here because I created time and convinced myself that I should join you today. I love mentorship and interacting with people. I love being here. I have to return to society, what it has given me through qualifications, life and experiences. Through this career workshop, I am exactly doing that,” he said.
Mr. Busuulwa shared anecdotes from his academic journey and connecting with young minds poised for the future. He reinforced the notion that the landscape of accounting has changed dramatically, moving from traditional number-crunching to roles involving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors, financial crime, and IT consulting.
Mr. Busuulwa mentioned that with the trends in the accounting profession, students and practitioners are presented with diverse career paths.
Mr. Busuulwa encouraged students to understand and appreciate their potential. “Every one of you here has the potential. I urge you to believe in your capabilities,” he said. He cautioned students and young people in general against limiting beliefs. Citing the power of thinking and its effects on the choices that individuals make, he stated, “If you think you can’t do it, you will not.”
He inspired students to actively shape their careers, stressing the need for adaptability and continuous learning. He appealed to the students to always empower their minds and souls with positive statements such as “Whatever it is, I am going to be successful,” he remarked.
The Career workshop moderated by Ms Sylvia Namujjuzi, Assistant Lecturer at the College of Business and Management Sciences assisted by Mr. Jonathan Basalirwa, a third year student, ended on a high note with presentation of awards of excellence to the best ten (10) First Class Honours Division graduates, and a networking session involving the respective speakers and students.
The Principal thanked the Dean, School of Business- Dr. Godfrey Akileng, Dr. Eric Nzibonera, Ms Sylvia Namujjuzi, Mr. John Ogema, the Makerere University Accountancy Bureau, and the team from ACCA Uganda for organizing the Career workshop 2025.
The discussions involving Makerere University staff namely Prof. Edward Bbaale, Dr. Eric Nzibonera, ACCA Uganda-Ms Charlotte Kukunda and Ms Jackie Mbabazi, and the Keynote Speaker Mr. Robert Busuulwa emphasized the necessity of bridging the gap between academic training and real-world skills.
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