General
Prof. Ezra Suruma installed Chancellor
It was a cheerful moment as students from the Makerere University School of Performing Arts led the procession to welcome Prof. Ezra Suruma to his installation ceremony as Chancellor of Makerere University on 18th January 2016. Prof. Suruma, a renowned scholar of economics and management, succeeded Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera who has been the Chancellor of the University since 2007.
Amidst joy and happiness, Prof. Suruma was installed Chancellor by Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu in the Makerere University Main Hall. Well adorned with the Chancellor’s robe, Prof. Suruma was given a copy of the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act 2001, a copy of the Instrument appointing the Chancellor read by the Makerere University Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs Dr. Ernest Okello Ogwang.
He was also given a Mace which symbolizes his authority at Makerere University and what Makerere University stands for, a key, a flag and Makerere University neck tie signifying his attachment to the great institution.
Prof. Suruma is the third non-Head of State Chancellor, taking on the mantle after Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera and the Rt. Hon. Apolo Robin Nsibambi. He was appointed as Makerere University Chancellor by the President of the Republic of Uganda subsequent to the recommendation of the Makerere University Council. Upon being installed as the University Chancellor, Prof. Suruma promised to work with his peers to uplift the standards of Makerere University.
“In accepting to be Chancellor of Makerere University, I accept responsibility to contribute in every way that I can to take Makerere to a higher level. I will strive to leave every aspect of its existence better than I found it,” he happily said.
Prof. Suruma called for joint efforts in improving Makerere University when he said, “we need to focus on the essentials that are most visible products to the graduates. We have to make sure that students stand out as exceptionally great citizens, morally upright, academically excellent and globally competitive. Let us ensure we all transform our students that whoever eventually meets them will confirm that Makerere University is indeed contributing to and substantially building a better world for all.”
He extended sincere gratitude to his predecessor Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera for accomplishing the eight years of remarkable service as Chancellor of Makerere University. He further appreciated the Makerere University community for the cordial relationship with Prof. Kagonyera that propelled the University to its present glory as one of the greatest institutions of higher learning in Africa.
“May the lord continue to bless you, award you and your family for contributing so many years of selfless service to this institution. I promise to do everything in my power with the help of God to add on what you have done so far to advance further the knowledge, innovation, integrity and excellence at Makerere University,” he said.
Starting 19th January 2016, Prof. Suruma will officially assume his duties as Chancellor of Makerere University by presiding over the 66th graduation ceremony scheduled to last four days. This is one of the roles of a Chancellor as spelt out in section 30 (3) and (4) of the Universities and other Tertiary Institutions Act 2001 which states that;
30 (3) The Chancellor shall be the titular head of the University and as such shall preside at all ceremonial assemblies of the University and, in the name of that University, confer degrees and other academic titles and distinctions of that University.
(4) The Chancellor shall, at any time, on the direction of the Visitor, cause a visitation of the University.
In addition to the well spelt out roles in the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act 2001, the Chairperson-Makerere University Council Eng. Dr. Charles Wana-Etyem said that Makerere University is expecting Prof. Suruma to drive Makerere University’s cause and do things that promote the institution.
“We will be pleased to enjoy the benefits out of your national and international networks. Your deep understanding of the working of the Government should also help to alleviate Makerere University’s challenges at the right time in the right forum. We also expect you to look through the academic matters of the University without fear or favor because often they come to your attention,” he said.
Citing inadequate resources as one of the greatest challenges and threats Makerere is facing, Dr. Wana-Etyem told Prof. Suruma that the inability to raise the desirable funds for Makerere University has limited the institution’s ability to fully deliver on its mandate. “I kindly request you to engage in resource mobilization and support the University to address this challenge. Makerere University will expect you again to lay a hand in establishing partnerships to give the institution a stand nationally and internationally,” he emphasized.
Performing the ceremonial roles, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu congratulated Prof. Ezra Suruma upon his appointment as the third Non Head of State Chancellor of Makerere University.
“As Makerere University, we are excited to welcome yet another distinguished personality to this great institution. Prof. Suruma comes from the world of academia and has a wealth of experience as a leader at various levels of society, both nationally and internationally. He therefore brings with him unique insights and perspectives, from which Makerere University is eager to learn as we continue on our journey in search of excellence towards achieving our vision “To be the leading institution for academic excellence and innovations in Africa,” he said.
“Given Prof. Suruma’s background and experience in the processes of stabilization, reconstruction, restructuring and management of the Ugandan economy since 1986, we are confident that he will assist Makerere University to improve its financial situation, which remains a major challenge. University Management pledges to work with Prof. Suruma to achieve our core functions of Teaching and Learning, Research and Innovations and Knowledge Transfer Partnerships and Networking,” he added.
Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu also thanked Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera for his services at Makerere University saying, “Both members of staff and students have benefitted from your sincerity as an individual and your wisdom as Chancellor. We are hopeful to continue working with you as opportunities may present.”
In a speech read by the Prime Minister of Uganda Rt. Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, the Visitor to Makerere University, H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni emphasized Government’s commitment to support Prof. Ezra Suruma during his tenure as Chancellor. President Museveni said that government is willing to work hand in hand with the Chancellor to realize the dream of not only producing graduates that are competitive in the world of work but also the kind of experts Uganda needs.
“To ensure that Makerere University continues to produce quality graduates and transform communities, Government committed special funds through the Presidential Initiative on Science and Technology at Makerere University. This Initiative has led to breakthroughs in research and innovations such as Uganda’s first electric car; and the affordable multi-purpose tractor that can thresh maize, support irrigation, and plough gardens. These efforts produce quality graduates with entrepreneurial abilities suited for the highly competitive labour market,” the President mentioned.
“I must salute Prof. Mondo Kagonyera for a highly successful tenure as Chancellor of Makerere University. You have successful overseen the implementation of institutional reform and physical developments at Makerere University. You are no doubt leaving a firm foundation on which Prof. Suruma can now build upon in taking Makerere University to the next level. I thank you,” he added.
The Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Sports Hon. Jessica Alupo represented by Director for Higher Education, Vocational Education and Training Mrs. Elizabeth Gabona said Prof. Suruma, a former Makerere academic, was a perfect choice because of his wealth of experience.
In a farewell message, Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera said that he had gained a lot of experience through his association with the Makerere University community.
“My life at Makerere University as a teacher, as the Chairman Appointments Board and as Chancellor has been an enriching experience. I have learned much from Members of Academic Staff, Administration and extremely a lot from the students. Students have enriched my experience and they have even broadened my views on life. I thank you very much,” he stated.
He however, advised Government to pay attention to the students’ welfare such as the infrastructure developments and innovations. He said that the government should take over the long term development projects bill to enhance the University’s efficiency it its operations.
“I don’t think it is correct that students’ fees should be spent on long term development projects. The fees should largely support University operations, and not long term developments projects at the University. As you all know that the environment in which you live, dictates your actions. I therefore plead to the Government to find resources and renovate the Halls of Residence to the standard they should be,” he said.
He congratulated his Successor Prof. Ezra Suruma for the deserved achievement when he said, “I don’t think that Makerere University would have found a better person to recommend to the President than Prof. Ezra Suruma. Therefore I whole heartedly congratulate you on your choice and recommendation.” On behalf of the University Council and Senate, the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda presented to Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera an accolade artistically designed with the Makerere University logo, the Main Building and a smiling Kagonyera clad in the Chancellor’s gown holding the Mace. He received a picture board providing highlights of his eight-year tenure as Chancellor of Makerere University as well as an assortment of Makerere University Souvenirs. The Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA) also presented a plaque to Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera.
Article by: Makerere University Public Relations Office
The Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, has commended Makerere University for crafting a policy aimed at creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of the University community.
Speaking at the Launch of the Safeguarding Policy today (Friday, April 4,2025) at Makerere University, Rt. Hon. Nakadama, noted that the policy is more than just a document, it represents a commitment to change, a pledge to protect, and a foundation for the future.
“I applaud the Makerere University Council and Management for the openness to acknowledge the existence of safeguarding risks within the institution, and the commitment to enhance the safety and well-being of all Students, Staff and associated stakeholders,” remarked Rt. Hon. Nakadama.
In her speech, the Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering safer learning spaces in higher education institutions.
“We must collaborate to ensure its (the Safeguarding Policy’s) implementation and effectiveness. I urge all stakeholders, students, staff, Administrators, Partners and Government officials to engage in creating and maintaining a safe University Environment,” Rt. Hon. Nakadama, observed.
Makerere University has a duty of care to do no harm and promote the wellbeing of all students, staff, and other University community stakeholders. It seeks to enhance the learning environment to make it more secure, inclusive, and ethically sound for all stakeholders. In this quest, a comprehensive Safeguarding Policy was developed and approved by the University Council in April 2024.
The Policy is designed to detect, and swiftly act on safeguarding risks; prevent the occurrence of harm; provide mechanisms for reporting all allegations or incidents that have occurred; respond appropriately to all reported incidences; and, continuously monitor, evaluate and learn from practices and experiences of managing safeguarding concerns.
The University Council Chairperson, Mrs. Lorna Magara, pledged total commitment to make sure that the policy does not remain on paper.
“With this policy we reinforce our zero-tolerance stance on abuse and commit to building a community where equality and respect thrive, and where every individual feels seen, supported and secure. Today marks a new chapter. We expect Management to ensure that every Campus member understands and lives out these principles. Violations will be met with strong disciplinary and legal action and survivors will receive the support, care and justice they deserve,” Mrs. Magara, said.
Addressing guests, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice-Chancellor, reassured that the launch of the Policy is not just a ceremonial event but a call to action. He called upon staff and students to ensure that every member of the University community knows their rights and has access to channels where they can report cases without fear of retaliation.
“Makerere is an equal opportunities institution and we are intentional in maintaining a safe environment for our students, staff and visitors. On the African continent, we are pioneers in establishing the gender mainstreaming policy, the anti-sexual harassment policy, the policy on students with disabilities and others, and I want to assure you Your Excellency Mr. Ssentamu that this policy will be implemented,” Prof. Nawangwe pledged.
In his address prior to the Vice Chancellor’s remarks, H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu, the 91st Guild President had appealed to the University Management, to ensure that the policy does not remain in the filing cabinet but is put into practice. He had also requested Management to use the policy to guide in decision-making, disciplinary action, staff training, and student orientation. Prof. Nawangwe’s response therefore sought to promptly address the Student Guild’s prayer.
H.E. Ssentamu equally lauded the University Management, for developing a policy that aspires to create a safe space for everyone, especially women, students with disabilities, international students, and other vulnerable groups.
“This policy is a bold declaration that enough is enough. That silence is not an option. That every student matters. That every complaint will be taken seriously. That perpetrators will be held accountable regardless of title, status, or office,” His Excellency, Ssentamu, noted.
“To my fellow students: Safeguarding is not about punishing people; it is about protecting everyone. Speak out against misconduct. Support your colleagues. Educate yourselves about your rights. Use the reporting systems. Let us build a culture of respect,” the Guild President highlighted.
During the launch, students with disabilities, pointed out that with the policy in operation, they feel that Makerere University has created a framework for inclusivity.
“With the Safeguarding Policy in place, we have not been left behind. We now know where to report when we have challenges and also the MakSafeSpace, the online reporting system, can easily be accessed. We feel we are part of this prestigious Institutions,” Yasin Ikoza, a first-year student Social Work and Social Administration with visual impairement, said.
The MakSafeSpace platform, which incorporates accessibility features for differently abled users, provides a robust and confidential means of reporting any risk or harm that is likely to occur or has occurred during teaching, learning, research, and community engagements. This platform complements the other reporting channels, both digital and non-digital, provided by Makerere University.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa a member of the Safeguarding Steering Committee added that an Inclusion and Safeguarding Liaison Office has been established in the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) to track incidences. She equally requested members of the community to report incidences through the MakSafeSpace and other designated spaces so as to ease case tracking.
“When you report, the incidences will be channeled to the Safeguarding Liaison Office. The University Management is committed to have an annual audit; what is prevailing, what is most occurring, and what has come down. So if you don’t report through designated spaces, University Management cannot have data to act accordingly,” Prof. Namaalwa advised.
Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students and Chairperson of the Safeguarding Implementation Committee informed the audience that her team has rolled out sensitization campaigns for both staff and students. The campaigns which began in Student Halls of Residence will proceed to affiliated hostels thereafter.
“The purpose of these sensitization campaigns is to educate students and staff about the importance of the Safeguarding Policy and how to identify, prevent and respond to safeguarding concerns. We have also trained staff and student safeguarding champions and we are confident that these individuals will promote a culture of safeguarding in our University community,” Dr. Kabumbuli added.
The introduction of the safeguarding policy aligns with the University’s broader mission to uphold the highest standards of Education and Institutional ethics. With this development, the University reaffirms its dedication to protecting the rights and well-being of all its stakeholders.
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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