General
Prof. Ezra Suruma appointed Chancellor of Makerere University
![[Front-Row] Assoc.Prof. Okello Ogwang welcomes H.E Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi, Prof. Ezra Suruma and Mr. Edward Gaamuwa to the Advancing Uganda’s Economy Book Launch by Prof. Suruma on 23rd September 2014, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda](https://news.mak.ac.ug/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/field_image_Makerere-Prof-Suruma-Book-Launch-23rdSept2014-Story.JPG)
The President of the Republic of Uganda has appointed Prof. Ezra Suruma, Chancellor of Makerere University, subsequent to recommendation by the University Council.
Makerere University is the premier University in Africa; a renowned centre of academic excellence, and a hub for research and innovations. In the Thomas Reuters five year (2010-2014) analysis of Africa’s Top ten, Makerere University was ranked one of the most respected Universities in Africa. The ranking which specifically analyses the university reputation in terms of the ability to recruit high-quality staff and students, establish valuable international partnerships, and connect with greater funding prospects featured Makerere as the only University in East and Central Africa.
In exercise of the powers conferred upon the President by Section 30(1) of the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, the Instrument of Appointment issued and signed by President reads as follows:
“I, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni do hereby appoint: Prof. Ezra Suruma, Chancellor of Makerere University for a period of four years (4) with effect from the date of assumption of duty. Given under my hand and the Public Seal this 2nd day of December 2015.”
With this Instrument of Appointment, Prof. Suruma a distinguished scholar and statesman becomes the third non-Head of State Chancellor of Makerere University.
Chancellor Suruma takes over from Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera, the Second non-Head of State Chancellor who served for two (2) terms from 23rd October 2007 to 23rd October 2015.
The Chancellor is the Titular Head of the University and presides at all assemblies, confers degrees, other academic titles and distinctions of the University.
Who is Prof. Ezra Suruma?
Chancellor Suruma is a distinguished scholar and statesman with a wealth of experience in the field of finance and banking, spanning more than 25 years. He attained a doctorate degree of economics in 1976 from the University of Connecticut, USA; a Masters of Arts in Economics in 1972 and a Bachelor of Science in Finance in 1969, both from Fordham University, New York, USA.
He is a person of high integrity, excellent public relations and with proven ability to market and internationalize the University. Prof. Suruma is a Senior Presidential Advisor responsible for Finance and Planning. He serves on the Board of the National Planning Authority, participates in numerous national and international economic policy discussions and initiates proposals for policy change. He is the Head of the Prime Minister’s Delivery Unit responsible for the implementation of priority programmes of the Uganda Government.
From 2005 to 2009, Prof. Suruma served as the Minister of Finance. He was internationally recognized for his outstanding service when he won the award of Africa’s Best Minister of the Year 2008.
Prof. Suruma has been at the centre of objective interactions and negotiations with numerous financial institutions such as the IMF, World Bank, African Development Bank, China Development Bank among others. He is also a Founder Member of Ugafode Microfinance Ltd, a bank with 12 branches in Uganda.
In 1972, Prof. Suruma began his academic career as Assistant Professor at Florida A&M University, USA. He joined the Makerere University service in 1973. From 1973 to 1975, Mr. Suruma was a Lecturer in the Department of Economics, Makerere University. He returned to Florida A&M University in 1976 as Associate Professor of Economics. In 1979, Dr. Suruma returned to Makerere University at the rank of Senior Lecturer, a position he held until 1981 when he moved to Coppin State University in the USA as Professor and Head of the Department of Management Science. To date, he continues to pursue academic interests with several recent publications including “Advancing Uganda’s Economy: A Personal Account” and “African Perspectives on Sovereign Debt Restructuring”.
Following a distinguished career in universities in Uganda and the Unites States, Prof. Suruma joined Government service in 1987 as the Director of Research in the Central Bank. He rose to the rank of Deputy Governor of the Bank in 1990 and later served as the Chairman/Managing Director of Uganda Commercial Bank.
Between 1990 and 2009, Prof. Suruma held various positions including Chairman Governing Council of the African Export Import Bank from 2008 to 2009; Vice Chairman of the Steering Committee of the Panel of African Finance Ministers from 2007 to 2009; Chairman Governing Council of the East African Development Bank from 2006 to 2009; Chairman Governing Council of the Preferential Trade Area (PTA) Bank from 2007 to 2008; Secretary of the Commission for Fast Tracking the East African Federation from October 2004 to January 2005; and Director of Economic Affairs for the National Resistance Movement Secretariat.
Prof. Suruma has been a significant player in the stabilization, reconstruction, restructuring and management of the Ugandan economy since 1986. He has always maintained a passion for economic justice and economic emancipation of the Ugandan people.
He went to Washington in 2010 as a Distinguished Visiting Fellow at the Brookings Institution and in 2014, the Brookings Institution Press published his book, Advancing the Ugandan Economy, A personal account. He is also a Distinguished Fellow of the Centre for International Governance Innovation, Canada.
The Installation Ceremony for the Chancellor will be held on 18th January 2016
Hosts Makerere University have officially kicked off the East African Universities’ Debate Championship EAUDC ZAABU 2026, bringing together student debaters, university leaders, and representatives from universities across the region to promote intellectual engagement, critical thinking, leadership development, and regional collaboration. The championship provides a platform for students to exchange ideas, strengthen public speaking skills, and develop solutions through constructive dialogue. This year’s theme is: From Dialogue to Action: The Role of Youth in Africa’s Transformation.
The event reflects Makerere University’s continued commitment to nurturing student leadership, academic excellence, and regional integration by providing opportunities for young people to engage in meaningful discussions and build networks beyond national borders.
Debate as a Platform for Regional Engagement
Chairperson of the Organizing Committee and Makerere University Debate Union (MDU), Mr. Arthur Akatwijuka highlighted the importance of hosting the championship and bringing together universities from different countries across East Africa. He noted that the event demonstrates the role of debate in connecting young leaders, promoting intellectual diversity, and strengthening collaboration among institutions of higher learning.
‘We are excited to have representation from the different countries and universities. This championship is not only about competition but also about creating a platform where young leaders can engage, share ideas, and shape the future of our region,’ said Mr. Akatwijuka.
Mr. Akatwijuka further explained that the championship provides participants with an opportunity to learn from different perspectives, develop confidence, and build skills that will contribute to their leadership journey. He encouraged students to embrace the experience as a platform for knowledge exchange and regional cooperation.
Reaffirming Makerere University‘s Commitment to Regional Integration
Speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment to advancing regional integration and nurturing future leaders through the EAUDC2026. He descried the championship as a vital platform for strengthening collaboration among universities.
‘Makerere was the first university in East Africa, so you are coming back home. This is your university, and its doors are always open to you,’ said Prof. Alinaitwe.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor noted that the championship builds on Makerere University‘s efforts to promote youth leadership and regional cooperation through debate. He said the competition equips participants with critical thinking, communication, research, and leadership skills while fostering unity among East African youth. ‘As we debate regionally, we are strengthening regional integration. By coming here, articulating your points and convincing others, you are being groomed to become formidable leaders and a force for production and transformation in our societies,’ he said.
Prof. Alinaitwe emphasized that beyond the competition, the championship creates opportunities for participants to build regional networks and lasting partnerships that can support future academic, professional, and leadership opportunities. He encouraged all participants to view themselves as winners for contributing to East Africa’s shared vision of integration and development.
‘All of us are already winners simply by participating in this championship. Whether you finish first or sixth, you have strengthened your skills and contributed to building the future of our region,’ stated Prof. Alinaitwe.
Developing Responsible Leaders Through Debate
The Dean of Students Makerere University, Dr. Winifred Namuwonge Kabumbuli warmly welcomed participants and described the championship as an important opportunity for developing responsible and innovative leaders. Dr. Namuwonge noted that debate enables students to improve their communication skills, engage with diverse perspectives, and become better prepared for future leadership roles.
Dr. Namuwonge encouraged participants to uphold integrity, respect different viewpoints, and use the championship as a platform for learning and cultural exchange. ‘Makerere University is proud to host this championship because debate develops leaders who can engage society with knowledge, confidence, and respect,’ Dr. Namuwonge noted.
Communication Skills for Future Leaders
The Electoral Commission Uganda, Head of Public Relations and Spokesperson, Mr. Julius Mucunguzi congratulated the organizers and participants for promoting intellectual dialogue through the championship. He emphasized that debate plays a significant role in preparing young people to communicate effectively and participate in leadership.
Mr. Mucunguzi explained that the skills acquired through debating extend beyond competition and are valuable in professional and public spaces. ‘Debate equips young people with the ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and contribute meaningfully to society. Makerere is proud to provide this platform for East Africa’s future leaders.’
He encouraged students to continue embracing debate as a tool for knowledge sharing, understanding different perspectives, and contributing positively to society.
Transform Dialogue into Action
The keynote speaker and Executive Secretary of Inter University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), Prof. Idris A. Rai who was represented by Dr. Gervais Ndayizeye challenged young people across East Africa to move beyond discussions and take action in addressing challenges facing the continent. He described the championship as a platform for developing future leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers who will contribute to Africa’s transformation.
‘We wish that the end comes not only with debate but with action. The role of youth in African transformation is very important,’ the keynote speaker said.
Dr. Ndayizeye emphasized that young people, who make up more than 70 per cent of Africa’s population, have the potential to turn challenges into opportunities through innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership. He encouraged the youth to change their mindset from seeking employment to creating solutions and opportunities for others.
‘The question should no longer be, ‘Who will employ me?’ The new question should be, ‘What problem can I solve?’ challenged Dr. Ndayizeye.
Dr. Ndayizeye urged young leaders to actively participate in governance by voting, engaging in public affairs, and holding leaders accountable. He also highlighted the importance of East African integration, calling on young people to embrace regional cooperation and take advantage of opportunities across member states.
‘You must vote. You must engage. You must contribute. You must hold leaders accountable. You must become part of the leadership,’ Dr. Ndayizeye stated.
He further stressed that discipline is essential for success, noting that talent and education must be supported by commitment and responsibility. ‘Talent without discipline is wasted potential. Discipline is what transforms goals into achievements,’ Prof. Idris said.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Ndayizeye challenged participants to become innovators, responsible citizens, and creators of opportunities who will turn ideas into action. ‘This generation will be remembered as the generation that transformed dialogue into action, challenges into opportunities, and possibilities into progress. The future of this East African Community is sitting in this room today,’ he concluded.
EAUDC ZAABU 2026 is organised by the Makerere University Debate Union (MDU), the official student organization that promotes debate, public speaking, poetry, and critical discourse. The debate will be held from 27th to 31st July 2026 at the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility.
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