Connect with us

General

Mak Sida Annual Review Meeting Reveals Good Progress

Published

on

Over the last 15 years of collaboration, the Swedish Government has invested US$ 73.3 million in Graduate Training and the scientific environments of five public Universities in Uganda, with the main recipient being Makerere University (Mak). The latest phase of collaboration (2015-2020) will contribute US$ 32million to training over 240 students over the five year period.

These figures formed a good basis for this year’s Sida (Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency) Annual Review Meeting’s theme “Investing in Research and Innovating for Society”.  Launched on 10th October 2016 in the Main Hall, the meeting also marked the first official visit to Makerere University by the new Swedish Ambassador to Uganda H.E. Per Lindgärde.
Ambassador Lindgärde who arrived in the country only a week prior to the Annual Review Meeting thanked Makerere University for the warm reception accorded to him.
H.E. Amb. Per Lindgärde (2nd R), Dr. Gity Behravan (R), Vice Chancellor-Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu (2nd L) and Director DRGT-Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza (L) listen to presentations during the Sida Annual Review Meeting
“The Annual Review Meeting brings together Ugandan and Swedish partners to assess the past year. I understand that some of you are new to the program, while others have much experience from previous collaboration phases. But what you all have in common is that you have been successful in the competition to get a project approved for this collaboration,” commended Ambassador Lindgärde.

He further drew attention to the uniqueness of the Swedish funding to research collaboration, noting that “The Swedish strategy is based on funding institution building, post-graduate education, and research in one single effort. No part can function without the others. It is a holistic approach” shared the Ambassador.

The Director, Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT) and Head of the Mak-Sida Intuitional Collaboration Programme, Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza thanked the Swedish Government for the dedicated support to Mak which has led to the training of 325 academics since 2000. Prof. Buyinza took note of two shifts that have since taken place in the new collaboration period.
Dr. Gity Behravan (R) reacts to one of the presentations as Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza (L) listens intently
“Firstly, whilst the program previously was only based on sandwich students, 105 PhD students are now locally trained. Only 20 PhDs are going to be on sandwich, based on capacity need.” He observed that this was indeed a great testimony of the strengthened research capacity achieved by Mak over the 15 years of collaboration.

“Secondly, local training will take place in multidisciplinary teams, based on multidisciplinary themes. The previous model of primarily singular PhD projects has thus been shifted, as per Mak’s research policy,” shared Prof. Buyinza. He however noted that translating scientific findings into the language that policy makers can easily understand remains a challenge, which the new collaboration period will seek to address.

In his welcome remarks, the Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba Ssentamu thanked the H.E. Amb. Per Lindgärde, the First Secretary and Senior Research Advisor, Dr. Gity Behravan as well as Swedish and Ugandan partners for taking time off their schedules to attend the meeting.
Some of the Swedish Partners that attended the Annual Review Meeting listen to the day's proceedings
“This Annual Review Meeting symbolises the nature and character of the relationship between Makerere University and the Royal Government and People of Sweden. It is an opportunity to take stock of our performance within our agreement for joint research cooperation,” remarked the Vice Chancellor.

Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu appreciated the fundamental role played by Swedish Government support in strengthening the University’s capacity to deliver her core functions. “This support has indeed greatly contributed to our visibility and status. I wish therefore, on behalf of Makerere University, to extend our sincere gratitude to the Royal Government of Sweden for this continued support,” underscored the Vice Chancellor.

In her remarks, Dr. Gity Behravan stressed that support to Mak is in line with the institutional Research Agenda which is also generated from Uganda’s National Development Plan (NDP). This, she said, will strengthen all efforts of knowledge production and use. She therefore called upon all presenters at the Annual Review Meeting to take note of the importance of highlighting the research results that can be used in knowledge generation to improve focus areas as outlined in the 2014-2018 Sida bilateral cooperation strategy for Uganda. These include; strengthening of democracy and human rights, better maternal and child health, increased employment and reduced violence against women.
One of the presenters Dr. Jamil Ssenku (L) answers questions from the audience. Second Right is MUST Vice Chancellor-Prof. Celestino Obua and Right is Deputy Director DRGT-Prof. David Owiny
Emphasizing the need to communicate research findings, Dr. Behravan noted that “today’s research is tomorrow’s welfare and this needs to be better known and seen and felt.” She restated the Swedish Government’s appreciation of the link between research and development and expressed hope that the Ugandan Government commitment to University research and research training would be demonstrated by an increased share of the national budget.

The Government of Uganda under the new cabinet has introduced a Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. Representing the line Minister Hon. Dr. Elioda Tumwesigye at the Annual Review Meeting, the Executive Director, Uganda Industrial Research Institute (UIRI), Prof. Charles Kwesiga reassured all gathered of the Government’s full support through the new fully fledged ministry.

A Science Day is one of the activities that traditionally constitute the Sida Annual Review Meeting. This year’s presentations included: Could secondary metabolites from cruciferous vegetables serve as a source of industrial chemicals in Uganda? by Assoc. Prof. Steven Nyanzi; Using Mathematical Models for Policy Making by Dr. Betty Nanyonga Kivumbi; and Nutri-medicinal plants used in the management of HIV/AIDS opportunistic infections by Dr. Savina Asimwe.
Director DRGT Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza meets some of the PhD student beneficiaries under the current phase of funding
Other presentations were: What is the place for transdisciplinary Research in our University Setting by Dr. Kenneth Arinaitwe; Mathematical Modeling for Infectious and Non-infectious Diseases by Dr. John Kitayimbwa; and Bioactivity, Toxicity and Phytochemistry of selected plant species by Ms. Adia Mohammed Madina. Two other presentations were delivered by Mr. Alex Tumwesigye on One-Dimensional Dynamical Systems and Commutativity Commuting Elements in Non-Commutative Algebras, and Dr. Jamil Ssenku on Potential for phtoremediation of acid mine waste degraded sites by selected tree species in Kasese District.

The Annual Review Meeting was attended by the Leadership, Staff and Students of; Busitema University, Gulu University, Kyambogo University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST).

Article by Public Relations Office

Mark Wamai

Continue Reading

General

Press Statement: Makerere 76th Graduation Ceremony

Published

on

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) presents one of the printed batches of transcripts the Registrar College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS)-Ms. Ruth Iteu Eyoku (2nd Right) as Right to Left: DVCAA-Prof. Sarah Ssali, AR-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Ms. Prossy Nakayiki witness on 28th January 2026. Vice Chancellor's Press Briefing on the 76th Graduation due to be held 24th-27th February 2026 at Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University’s 76th graduation ceremony will be held from February 24th – 27th, 2026, at the Makerere University Freedom Square, starting at 8.30am. During the 76th graduation ceremony, we shall confer degrees and award certificates to 185 PhDs, 2034 Masters, 6,043 bachelors, 137 postgraduate diplomas and 33 diplomas.

I am proud to announce that in comparison to the 75th graduation, we have registered a 30% growth in graduate student output. This is a result of our strategic decision to prioritize graduate education per our research-led agenda.

I also wish to announce that the transcripts have been finalized and are ready for pick up. Today, I am handing over the ready transcripts to the College principals and can be picked up from respective Colleges even before the graduation ceremony.

Important to Note:

In preparation for the graduation ceremony, the University wishes to note the following:

  1. Pre-graduation clearances
    Graduands are reminded to clear all necessary payments such as tuition and all graduation
    fees. It is also important to check with your College to ensure your name is on the graduation
    list and all mandatory clearances with university officials have been finalized. Note and
    internalize the graduation schedule (attached) to know which day you are graduating.
  2. Securing the graduation gowns
    Graduation gowns will be issued starting from 2nd February 2026 from the University Hall (Dinning Hall), Monday to Friday, from 9am to 4pm. To collect your gown, check and ensure your name appears on the Senate Graduation list, present your student number or National ID, and proof of payment for the gown.
  3. Security requirements
    • Attendance: For each day of graduation, entrance to the graduation ground will be by invitation only. Graduands will be issued with invitation cards which permits two guests per graduand. Do not come with more than two people or they will not be allowed access to the graduation venue. Graduands are encouraged to arrive to settle at the Freedom Square by 7am on graduation day to for a seamless flow of planned activities including the necessary security checks.
    • Prohibited items: Prohibited items include firearms, sharp instruments like mirrors and knives, alcohol, cell or batteries and chemicals, canned food and drinks, laptops, flashes and hard disks, radios including pocket radios, bottled drinks, cameras, large bags or any other heavy items.
    • Media: All media and journalists who wish to cover the ceremony must be pre-accredited by the Makerere University Public Relations office or they will not be allowed to access the ceremony venue. The access point for accredited media personnel will be the Senate Building.
    • Parking: There will be two designated parking areas; Rugby Grounds for those coming through the Eastern and Main Gate; and the second one is the Makerere University Main Grounds at Makerere College School. For VVIPs, VIPs and procession parking will be at CTF1, Directorate of Legal parking, St Francis and St Augustine parking, JICA and Senate Building.
    • Access Control: To ease traffic flow and management, the University has planned three access points to the graduation venue: the School of Social Sciences, Senate Building and the University Swimming Pool.
  4. For help and inquiries
    • Starting February 2, 2026, the Academic Registrar ’s Office and Graduation Committee will set up an information tent outside the Senate Building to provide guidance and handle all inquiries pertaining to graduation.


Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

Re-Advert for the Position of the Second Deputy Vice Chancellor

Published

on

An aerial shot of the Main Building, as taken by a drone over the Freedom Square with Left to Right: CHUSS, St. Francis, St. Augustine and CAES Buildings and the Kikoni area (Background) in view. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University is governed by the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, Cap 262. The University is seeking applications from suitably qualified applicants for the position of Second Deputy Vice-Chancellor. The Second Deputy Vice Chancellor holds a pivotal role in financial governance, institutional planning, and administrative leadership.

1.        POSITION:  SECOND DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR

2.        SALARY SCALE: PU2

3:        DUTY STATION: MAKERERE UNIVERSITY

  4.       ROLE

The Second Deputy Vice-Chancellor will report to the Vice–Chancellor and shall:

  1. Assist the Vice Chancellor in performance of his or her functions and in that regard shall oversee the finances and administration of the University;
  2. Be responsible for the Planning and Development of the University and,
  3. Perform such other functions that may be delegated to him or her by the Vice Chancellor or assigned by the University Council.

5.         PURPOSE OF THE JOB

To provide strategic leadership and ensure efficient and sound financial, human and fiscal resources management in the University.

6.         DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Provide leadership in Strategic planning and governance, leadership and administrative experience, Human resource and performance Management, Stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
  2. Provide leadership in preparation and implementation of the University’s recurrent and capital budgets.
  3. Monitor the development and implementation of the University’s accounting procedures, manuals and other documents relating to financial control and Management as per approved financial regulations.
  4. Oversee income and expenditure of all income generating units of the University.
  5. Coordinate the production of the University-wide Financial Reports by Colleges and Units.
  6. Management of human resources in the University.
  7. Oversee the management of University Estates and Assets.

7.  CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION

  1. Hold a PhD or any other academic doctorate.
  2. Be at the rank of associate or full professor level in an institution whose academic ranking is comparable with that of Makerere University as accepted by Senate.
  3. Be a Ugandan citizen within the age bracket of 40 to 65 years at the time of application.

7.1 Academic Qualifications

  1. Earned a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate should be acceptable by Senate.
  2. At least five years of financial or administrative leadership experience at the level of school dean/director or higher in a higher education institution, public service, or corporate institutions.
  3. Supervised at least ten (10) postgraduate students (Master’s and Ph.D.) to completion. At least three of the students must be at the PhD level.

7.2 Strategic Planning and Governance

  1. Experience in leading large administrative teams at the level of dean or higher, demonstrating efficiency and productivity.
  2. Proven record in developing and executing strategic plans, aligning financial and administrative objectives with institutional goals.
  3. Evidence of developing and implementing financial policies that have improved financial efficiency, transparency, and risk management.
  4. Evidence of implementing organisational restructuring or process improvements to ensure operational efficiency.
  5. Ability to develop and implement institutional policies, ensuring compliance with national higher education and financial regulations.

7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience

  1. Minimum 5 years of senior academic leadership in a recognized institution comparable with that of Makerere University, as accepted by Senate.
  2. Demonstrated experience in managing budgets exceeding UGX 500,000,000=, ensuring financial sustainability and accountability.
  3. Proven ability to mobilize resources, secure grants, and attract external funding to support institutional growth.
  4. Experience in conducting financial forecasting, cost control measures, and investment strategies to optimize institutional resources.
  5. Track record of leading financial audits and compliance assessments in alignment with national and international financial regulations.
  6. Experience in handling procurement, asset management, and infrastructure development, ensuring transparency and value for money.

7.4       Human Resource and Performance Management

  1. Track record of leading workforce planning, recruitment, and talent development strategies, ensuring a high-performance institutional culture.
  2. Experience in implementing performance-based appraisal systems, leading to improved staff efficiency and accountability.
  3. Proven ability to foster industrial harmony, resolving labour disputes and improving employer-employee relations.

7.5        Infrastructure Development and Resource Optimization

  1. Experience in overseeing capital development projects, ensuring timely delivery and cost efficiency.
  2. Track record of overseeing the maintenance and expansion of university facilities, enhancing institutional infrastructure.
  3. Proven ability to negotiate and manage contracts for outsourced services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality standards.

7.6          Digital Transformation and ICT Integration

  1. Experience in integrating ICT solutions in financial and administrative operations, improving service delivery and efficiency.
  2. Evidence steering the automation of financial, procurement, and HR systems, reducing paperwork and improving real-time decision making.
  3. Proven ability to implement cybersecurity measures that safeguard institutional financial and administrative data.

7.7          Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

  1. Demonstrated experience in building partnerships with government agencies, donors, private sector investors, and international organizations to enhance institutional funding.
  2. Proven ability to engage faculty, students, and staff in financial decision-making, ensuring transparency and inclusivity.
  3. Experience in negotiating contracts, partnerships, and collaborations that have led to financial and administrative growth.

7.8        Personal Attributes

  1. High level of integrity, transparency, and ethical leadership, with a record of financial prudence.
  2. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, backed by evidence of successfully managing complex financial and administrative challenges.
  3. Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement.
  4. A visionary leader with the ability to drive financial sustainability. administrative efficiency, and institutional growth.

8.         REMUNERATION

An attractive remuneration package that is in accordance with Makerere University terms and conditions of service.

9.         TENURE

The Second Deputy Vice Chancellor shall hold office for a period of five years   and shall be eligible for re-appointment for one more term.  

10.       METHOD OF APPLICATION

Interested applicants are invited to submit their application letters. The following documents shall comprise a complete application:

  1. A signed letter of application;
  2. A vision statement;
  3. Curriculum Vitae with contact details signed and dated by the applicant;
  4. Copies of required minimum number of publications;
  5. Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates;
  6. Three (3) letters of recommendation;
  7. Copies of letters of appointment to leadership positions at the level of Dean of a School in a national accredited university or other academic institution;
  8.  A copy of the applicant’s National Identity Card or passport;
  9. A copy of the last clearance from the Inspector General of Government or other equivalent national body;
  10. Referees should be advised to send confidential reference letters, addressed to the Chairperson Search Committee for the Position of Second Deputy Vice Chancellor and delivered directly to the address below by 5:00 pm on Friday 13th February, 2026;
  11. The references should cover the following areas: the applicant’s academic credential, experience, leadership, managerial and administrative skills and personal integrity.

Both Hardcopy and Electronic (Email) applications shall be accepted.

  1. Hardcopy applications: Both confidential letters and sealed applications marked “CONFIDENTIAL: POSITION OF SECOND DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLOR” should be addressed to:

SECRETARY SEARCH COMMITTEE

THE ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

MAKERERE UNIVERSITY

6TH Floor, ROOM 602, SENATE BUILDING

P.O.BOX 7062, KAMPALA, UGANDA

  1. Electronic media (e-mail) applications should have all the above documents scanned and emailed to search.dvcfa@mak.ac.ug by 5.00 pm East African Standard Time on Friday 13th February, 2026.

Please note that:

  1. Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered.
  2. Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.
  3. Applicants who responded to the advertisements published on 31st December 2025 (The New Vision) and 2nd January 2026 (The Daily Monitor) do not need to re-apply.

For more Information and inquiries: 

Visit our website https://mak.ac.ug/search-for-dvcs OR email us on search.dvcfa@mak.ac.ug OR Call Telephone number: +256-414-532634 during working hours (between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday).

MAKERERE UNIVERSITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza

ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

Press Statement: Makerere University Congratulates Former Staff and Students on Successful Election to Public Office

Published

on

An aerial photo of Clockwise Top Left to Right: St. Francis Chapel, Main Building, CAES, JICA Building, Chemistry Building, Mathematics, School of Statistics, Main Library, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, CoBAMS, EPRC, IGDS and the Freedom Square. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University warmly congratulates its former staff and students who emerged victorious in the 2026 national elections. Their success is a source of immense pride to the University and a strong affirmation of Makerere’s efforts to not only nurture academic excellence but also free expression and leadership. It is evidence of Makerere’s enduring impact and contribution to leadership, public service, and national development.

We are particularly pleased to recognize the following distinguished members of the Makerere University community who emerged victorious:

  1. Dr. Kiyonga Crispus Walter, Chancellor of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Bukonzo West.
  2. Rt. Hon. Tayebwa Thomas, former Chair, Finance, Planning, Administration, and Investment Committee of the University Council, on his re-election unopposed as MP for Ruhinda North and approval by the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) as Deputy Speaker 12th Parliament.
  3. Mr. Kabaasa Bruce Balaba, Chair, Finance, Planning, Administration, and Investment Committee of the University Council, on his election as MP for Rubanda County West.
  4. Hon. Nobert Mao, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Laroo-Pece.
  5. Mr. Alionzi Lawrence, former Guild President of Makerere University, on his election as Lord Mayor of Arua City.
  6. Mr. Maseruka Robert, former Guild President of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Mukono South.
  7. Mr. Gyaviira Lubowa Ssebina, former Deputy Bursar of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Nyendo–Mukungwe.
  8. Prof. Lubega George Willy, former Staff at College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), on his election as MP for Bugangaizi South.
  9. Prof. Ahebwa Wilber Manyisa, former Staff at College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), on his election as MP for Nakaseke North.
  10. Dr. Asiimwe Florence Akiiki, former Staff at College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), on her election as Woman MP for Masindi District.
  11. Dr. Kasigwa Gerald, former Staff at College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), on his election as MP for Kigorobya County.
  12. Hon. Adeke Anna Ebaju, former Guild President, on her re-election as Woman MP for Soroti District.
  13. Hon. Onekalit Denis Amere, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Kitgum Municipality.
  14. Hon. Karuhanga Gerald, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Ntungamo Municipality.
  15. Hon. Aber Lillian, former Vice Guild President, on her re-election as Woman MP for Kitgum District.
  16. Hon. Nyamutoro Phiona, former Vice Guild President, on her election as Woman MPfor Nebbi District.
  17. Dr. Lakisa Mercy Faith, former Vice Guild President, on her election as Woman MP for Alebtong District.
  18. Ms. Lenia Charity Kevin, former Vice Guild President MUBS, on her election as MP for Vurra County.
  19. Dr. Nambassa Shamim, former Guild President, on her election as LC V Woman Councilor for Kawempe South.
  20. Dr. Nalukwago Judith, former Vice Guild President, on her election as LC V Woman Councilor for Makindye West.
  21. Ms. Nattabi Margaret, former Vice Guild President, on her election as Female Youth Councilor for Mukono Municipality.
  22. Mr. Kizito Abasi, former Guild Minister, on his election as LC V Chairman for Lwengo District.
  23. Ms. Ssonko H. Namuganga, former Guild Minister, on her election as Female Youth Councilor for Kalungu District.

Makerere values dialogue, democracy, and responsible citizenship, and continues to make deliberate and progressive efforts to enhance participation in leadership and governance. We are confident they will serve with dedication, wisdom, and integrity.

We Build for the Future.

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

Trending