General
Mak Administrative Secretaries equipped with skills and knowledge
Over 40 Administrative Secretaries serving in the different Units of the University were equipped with valuable knowledge and skills on coping with the demanding nature and ever changing trends in the field of work.
During the Induction Workshop held on 5th and 6th April 2017 at School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-engineering Conference Hall, participants received training focusing on the changing role of an Administrative Secretary. The participants gained multiple skills in multi-tasking and prioritization; effective communication; professional ethics; dealing with multiple bosses, difficult personalities and conditions; customer care services; records keeping and management and time management.
The participants listened to presentations on how to effectively work with others/teamwork, personal development, practical problem solving, conflict resolution, decision making as well as managing pressure and stress.
Opening the workshop, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe emphasized the vital role played by Secretaries in the realization of the University Vision, Mission and Strategic Objectives. He thanked the Directorate of Human Resources for organizing the workshop and urged the Directorate to organize more of that kind for all categories of staff in the University.
According to the Director, Mrs. Mary K. Tizikara, the two days workshop focused on providing important information that would help Administrative Secretaries to align their duties and roles with the institution’s values and behavior. Mrs. Tizikara mentioned. She thanked Makerere University Appointments Board for the support rendered in the organization of the workshop.
Addressing the participants, Dr. Euzobia Baine Mugisha a Member of Makerere University Appointments Board who represented the Chairperson-Mr. Bruce B. Kabaasa said the induction workshop was the beginning of the holistic process of enhancing professionalism.
“I have listened to the participants and I am happy that this workshop has served the purpose. I encourage everyone to put into practice what you have learned. Let us try to socialize and work with everybody because you are at a work place. Avoid conflicts at work. Always remain conscious regarding your personal credibility. Credibility comes with experience and the professionalism you have on the job,” Dr. Baine Mugisha said.
Dr. Baine Mugisha, the representative of Makerere University Administrative Staff Association (MASA) in Council as well as the Appointments Board used the same occasion to appeal to Administrative Secretaries to join MASA.
In a captivating presentation titled, Dealing with Multiple Bosses, Ms Irene Tino from Uganda Management Institute informed the participants to always remember that there is no bad boss, but one could have a difficult boss. During the discussion, Ms. Tino said that Secretaries should learn how to manage, handle and balance the demands of multiple bosses. An Administrative Secretary with multiple bosses should manage time and prioritise tasks as well as sharing the list of tasks/assignments he/she is working on with the multiple bosses so as to understand his/her workload.
Focusing on Dealing with Pressure and Stress, Mrs. Tizikara said: “Pressure is something that drives you if it is not too much. If pressure is elevated and there is no time for recovery, then stress is felt. Long hours of work can affect your motivation and concentration. Once in a while, pressure is good since it can help one meet a few challenges and keeps the individual on track. Lack of pressure may lead to boredom since the job may become a routine.”
Presenting on Team Building and Management, Dr. Wilberforce Turyasingura, Dean-School of Business and Management at Uganda Management Institute said that the greatest outcomes are achieved as a result of teamwork. He said that with teamwork, individuals work together to accomplish more than what they could have done as individuals, but in an exciting, liberating, satisfying and enjoyable way. He mentioned that to build an effective team, the right people should be selected.
“Team building process involves gathering the right people and getting them to work interdependently to achieve high performance levels. If members share a common purpose and recognize that they need the efforts of everyone in the team, then it is teamwork. Working as a team comes with many benefits including: generating new ideas; providing support and help to team members; giving people a sense of belonging; helping them to learn from each other and develop, helping to achieve goals and objectives, experience and responsibility sharing, synergy development and common commitment to goals,” Dr. Turyasingura said.
He also highlighted the seven (7) steps involved in building an effective and cohesive team. These include; clarifying the team’s common goals and purposes, clarifying each person’s role in achieving the common purpose, clarifying the needs of the team’s internal and external clients, allowing conflicts to come to surface instead of stifling, working out effective ways to resolve conflicts based on the needs of the specific teams, not allowing individual interests to override those of the team and celebrating the milestones and success of the team.
Briefing participants on Customer Care and Customer Service, Mr. Ben Mugerwa from Uganda Management Institute explained that good customer service is taking that extra step to help even without being asked. It’s all about attitude and skills. He urged the participants to always communicate with professionalism, be organized, understand their role in the team and be a team player.
“The level of customer service that a customer expects will depend upon the past experiences and the type of organization they are dealing with. In the public sector, it has been difficult to implement a customer service type in organizations that are typically very process-oriented and usually in non-competitive situation!” Mr. Mugerwa stated.
He said that when the customer care is good, there will be increased satisfaction and increased use of services by the customers since the satisfied customers will tell their fellows. He added that for exceptional customer care; the staff must be professional and knowledgeable, friendly and courteous even when under pressure. He advised the Administrative Secretaries to be helpful, listen to customers, take responsibility and respond promptly to enquiries and problems.
Tipping the participants on Records Keeping and Management, Mr. Henry Akra-Uganda Management Institute informed them that record keeping is a routine activity taken in handling records while record management is the effort taken to handle records. He said that the record content, context and structure should be in order to serve as evidence, should be kept complete and every employee is responsible for managing records.
“When records are created, they have values attached to them; some are short term administrative values while others are long term physical values. Therefore, these values should be known and the retention schedule should be understood, whether to be deleted or retained.” Mr. Akra concluded.
In a one-on-one interaction with the Mak Public Relations Office team, the participants appreciated the knowledge and skills acquired. Most of them were fascinated by the general slogan "There is no bad boss, but you can meet a difficult boss." They were inspired with the experiences shared on managing a difficult boss.
Delivering the closing remarks, the Director Human Resources, Mrs. Tizikara thanked the staff in the Training and Development Division for organizing the workshop. She equally applauded the team in the Directorate of Human Resources for facilitating the different sessions of the workshop. The facilitators included: Mrs Dorothy Senoga Zake; Mr. Richard Mugisha; Mr. Lawrence Ssanyu; Ms Marvis Kansiime; Mr. Joseph Kalema; and Ms Josephine Apolot Opolot.
The training climaxed with award of certificates and a group photo.
Written by: MAK Public Relations Office
Mastercard Foundation Scholars have been encouraged to embrace mentorship programmes as a way of maximising opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Mentorship is a professional relationship in which an experienced person (the mentor) supports another (the mentee) in developing specific skills and knowledge that enhance both professional and personal growth.
While speaking at a Mentor–Mentee matching session held on Saturday at the Central Teaching Facility, Mr Steven Langa, a counsellor and director at Family Life Network, told scholars that mentorship plays a pivotal role in preparing the next generation of leaders capable of transforming Uganda and Africa.
“We live at a very challenging time in history, a time when Uganda and Africa have to rise up to the occasion to provide leadership, professional excellence and innovation,” Mr Langa, said.
In his presentation, Mr Langa explained that a mentor is not a parent, therapist, or romantic partner, but rather a coach who helps the mentee build essential skills.
“The mentoring relationship is built on mutual trust, respect and communication and involves both parties meeting regularly to exchange ideas, discuss progress and set goals for further development. A mentor does not need to know, or to provide all the answers; instead, the mentor encourages the mentee to use their available resources to identify solutions,” Mr Langa, noted.
Speaking at the same event, Ms Eva Nabasumba, the Principal Academics and Career Development Officer at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, encouraged scholars to build strong relationships with their mentors, which could later provide credible referees for employment, scholarships and other opportunities.
She highlighted several benefits of mentorship for mentees, including gaining advice, knowledge and insights from experienced professionals; developing professional communication skills; building valuable industry networks; engaging in employment-related conversations; exploring career pathways; and learning strategies for job searches, résumé writing and interviews.
During the session, mentors introduced themselves to their new mentees, allowing scholars to identify and connect with suitable mentors. Some of the mentors are doctors, teachers, counsellors, engineer’s business people and Accountants.
Apollo Mulondo, one of the mentors, urged scholars to take the mentorship opportunity seriously and respect the time and commitment of their mentors.
“Some of us are who we are today because of our mentors. Our offices are always open to you, so feel free to visit anytime. It does not matter what your background is you can make it,” Mulondo said.
The mentor–mentee matching session enabled scholars to interact with professionals from different fields, giving them an opportunity to identify mentors whose experience aligns with their academic and career aspirations. The engagement also created a platform for scholars to begin building networks that will support their growth beyond the university.
General
Mak Cooperative Society holds AGM: Growth, Transparency and Member Welfare Take Centre Stage
“This is a perfectly managed Cooperative Society,” remarked CPA David Ssenoga, amidst applause from Members of the Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MUMCS).
CPA Ssenoga made the remarks on 4th March 2026 as he presented the Auditor’s report from SDS and Company Certified Public Accountants at the MUMCS Annual General Meeting (AGM).
The Auditor’s report for the year ended 31st December 2025 highlighted adherence to the best corporate governance practices, confirmed proper allocation of funds, value for money, and steady progress.
“The Cooperative Society was found to be in excellent standing, with operations in compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards for SMEs, the Cooperative Societies Act, and relevant Ugandan regulations. The operations are efficient and transparent,” he reported.
Mandate of MUMCS
Chairing the AGM, the Vice Chairperson, Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu-Musoke, underscored that the MUMCS exists to promote the welfare of members. In pursuit of this mandate, MUMCS provides access to affordable credit at interest rates that are significantly lower than those offered by other financial institutions. Such support, he noted, empowers members to strengthen their financial stability, invest in personal and professional goals, and ultimately enhance their overall well-being.
Steady progress
Highlighting MUMCS’ steady progress, Dr. Kiggundu-Musoke commended members for the tremendous growth recorded over time. He noted that the cooperative society had grown from handling a few hundreds of thousands of shillings in its early years to managing a portfolio now standing at approximately UGX 3.25 billion, a milestone he described as a reflection of collective effort, prudent management, and sustained member confidence.
He encouraged members to actively promote and popularise the cooperative within their respective departments. He proposed a structured approach of engaging Heads of Department to sensitize staff on the MUMCS’ services and benefits.
AGM highlights
The hybrid AGM, with physical participants assembled in the Main Building Senior Common Room, and virtual participants who followed the proceedings via zoom, provided a platform to review performance, highlight operational successes and governance milestones, as well as, finding solutions to challenges.
Secretary’s report
Presenting the report, MUMCS’ Secretary, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, highlighted the growth in membership to 160, including 27 new recruits – a testimony to the confidence in the quality of services provided.
Prof. Ireeta excited the members when he mentioned that the 2025 surplus of UGX 291 million was distributed to members, with administrative budgets executed as approved.
On the issue of financial discipline and meeting obligations, Prof. Ireeta notified the members that the Management Committee implemented strategies that ensured compliance. “Outstanding loan arrears were settled through deductions from dividends of the concerned members,” he stated.
The Secretary reported that as approved during the previous AGM, the Vetting Committee consisting of Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala (Chairperson), Prof. Lawrence Mugisha (Member) and Dr. Alex Okello (Member) had been constituted and has embarked on the tasks as per the terms of reference.
With reference to the Secretary’s report, the Members praised the MUMCS Management Committee headed by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, for ensuring the successful implementation of key decisions agreed upon during the previous AGM.
Treasurer’s report
The Treasurer, Prof. Juma Kasozi, provided members with a detailed overview of operations, liquidity, investments, and returns.
Emphasizing MUMCS’ commitment to transparency, Prof. Kasozi noted that the Management Committee ensures that the balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and trial balances are shared monthly with members, which enables them to monitor performance throughout the year.
Prof. Kasozi explained that the Cooperative Society maintains strong liquidity, with approximately UGX 1.6 billion invested with fund managers and insurance companies. These liquid investments he said, provide a solid foundation to support loans, withdrawals, and operational needs. He encouraged members to increase their savings and shareholdings, in order to strengthen MUMCS’s financial base and enhance lending capacity.
The Treasurer highlighted the Society’s loan products, including instant loans; which provide same-day disbursement and long-term term loans. He reported that in 2025, UGX 479 million was disbursed in instant loans, and UGX 913 million as long-term loans.
He informed the AGM that the major challenge faced during the year 2025, was premised on disruptions in payroll deductions. “Before this setback, payroll deductions generated over UGX 50 million per month. Due to temporary disruptions, the amount generated reduced to UGX 20 million,” he explained.
The Treasurer briefed the members that discussions with the payroll management team had been successful, and full deductions were expected to resume, a step that would restore the expected income stream of the Cooperative Society.
He re-assured members that despite challenges with payroll deductions, MUMCS remains financially stable, with strong liquidity, robust investments, sound loan recovery mechanisms, and a commitment to member welfare.
He encouraged members to recruit colleagues, increase shareholding, and actively participate in strengthening the Cooperative Society’s growth and impact.
Members applaud the Management Committee
Impressed by the reports presented by the Secretary and Treasurer, the Members praised the MUMCS Management Committee headed by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, for the successful implementation of key decisions agreed upon during the previous AGM.
Presentation from the Welfare Committee
On behalf of the Welfare Committee, Ms. Ritah Namisango, commended the Management Committee for effectively implementing the Society’s Welfare Policy. Ms. Namisango noted that the policy stipulates the contribution to weddings, loss of a member, and/or when a member loses a parent, spouse and a biological child. She encouraged the members to read the Welfare Policy in order to tap into the benefits that accrue to them.
“We invite all members to read the Welfare Policy and inform the Management Committee early enough whenever a situation arises. I am glad that, because of transparency and communication through the WhatsApp group, most of you have been notifying the Executive Committee promptly. Most of the Members who have received contributions from MUMCS during such situations, have acknowledged receipt, and gone an extra mile, to send messages of gratitude via MUMCS’ WhatsApp group,” she said.
She welcomed the AGM’s approval of an additional UGX 2.5 million allocation to the Welfare Fund, to boost the Cooperative Society’s ability to extend support as well as standing in solidarity with the Members.
The Welfare Committee consists of Ms. Ritah Namisango, Dr. Oscar Mugula and Mr. Michael Kasusse.
Supervisory Committee report
The Chairperson, Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi, congratulated the Management Committee and the Members, upon the positive financial performance of MUMCS with a gross surplus of UGX 351,533,935/=, and a net surplus of UGX 49,510,181/= after deduction of all expenses.
Concerned that some members have faced challenges with payroll deductions, the Supervisory committee welcomed the progress reported by the Secretary toward resolving the issue.
He stated that the Committee reviewed the financial proposals presented by the management committee and endorsed the recommended dividend payment of UGX 38,630,000 to shareholders, noting that dividends cannot exceed 10 percent under the law.
In addition, the Committee supported payments to service providers, the purchase of a second laptop to enhance data security, the use of cloud and external storage for safeguarding records, the proposed welfare and AGM budgets, and the allocation of 65% of the gross surplus as return on savings.
The Supervisory Committee consists of Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi (Chairperson), Prof. Edgar Nabutanyi (Member) and Dr. Jamidah Nakato (Member).
Closing remarks
Closing the AGM, Dr. Kiggundu-Musoke thanked members for their active participation and challenged them to actively support the growth of the cooperative society. He emphasized that membership growth would not only strengthen the Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society’s financial standing, but also enhance dividend returns for all members.
General
Makerere University and World Bank Sign Partnership to Strengthen Environmental and Social Sustainability Capacity
On 5th March 2026, Makerere University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Development Association (IDA), the financing arm of the World Bank Group, establishing a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening environmental and social sustainability systems in Uganda and the wider East African region.
The collaboration brings together Makerere University through the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) and the World Bank to jointly advance training, research, and policy advisory in environmental and social sustainability.
The three-year agreement provides a framework for cooperation focused on building national capacity to manage environmental and social risks associated with large-scale development investments.
Advancing Sustainable Development through Knowledge Partnerships
The partnership will be anchored in the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre (ESSC) at Makerere University, a national hub established to promote applied research, policy engagement, and professional training in environmental and social governance.
Through the Centre, the two institutions will collaborate to strengthen Uganda’s ability to plan and implement development projects in ways that safeguard communities and the environment.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Ms. Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala, the World Bank Country Manager emphasised that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening systems that support sustainable growth.
“This partnership with Makerere University is an important step in strengthening Uganda’s systems for environmental and social sustainability. By working through the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre, we aim to build the capacity of professionals across government, the private sector, and development institutions to better manage environmental and social risks and deliver investments that promote sustainable growth while protecting people and the environment.” Ms. Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala, World Bank Country Manager, Uganda, noted.
The partnership will support training, research, and policy advisory activities through the ESSC, helping Uganda pursue a development trajectory that promotes economic growth while protecting people and the environment.
Building National Capacity for Environmental and Social Risk Management
Uganda’s development agenda under the Fourth National Development Plan prioritises large-scale investments in infrastructure, agro-industrialisation, energy, and science and technology. However, such investments require strong environmental and social risk management systems to ensure sustainable outcomes.
The new partnership, therefore, focuses on building a skilled workforce capable of applying international best practices in environmental and social governance.
Under the MoU, Makerere University will design and deliver demand-driven short-course training programs targeting public sector officials, development practitioners, financial institutions, civil society organisations, and private sector actors implementing major projects.
Seven certificate-level short courses have already been developed and approved across multiple colleges at the University. These courses cover areas such as environmental and social risk management, climate risk assessment, construction health and safety, and integrating environmental and social considerations into investment cycles.
“Makerere Universityis proud to partner with the World Bank in strengthening Uganda’s capacity to manage environmental and social risks in development investments. Through the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre, we have already developed and approved seven certificate-level short courses across multiple colleges, designed to equip professionals in government, the private sector, and development institutions with practical skills to plan and implement sustainable projects. This collaboration reflects Makerere’s commitment to providing knowledge-driven solutions that support Uganda’s development while safeguarding communities and the environment.” Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe noted.
Strengthening Collaboration between Academia and Development Partners
As part of the agreement, the World Bank will support the development and delivery of the training programs, including conducting Training of Trainers (ToT) on the Bank’s Environment and Social Standards and international best practices.
The Bank will also leverage its convening power to encourage participation from development partners, government institutions, and project implementers, while supporting impact monitoring of trained professionals to document improvements in project performance and job creation.
The collaboration will further promote professional networking, policy dialogue, knowledge exchange, and the development of knowledge hubs containing environmental and social tools, databases, and resources for practitioners.
Positioning Makerere as a Regional Knowledge Hub
Through this partnership, Makerere University seeks to position the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre as a leading knowledge hub for environmental and social governance in Africa.
By combining academic expertise with the World Bank’s global experience in development financing and technical assistance, the initiative is expected to strengthen the institutional capacity required to deliver sustainable and climate-resilient investments in Uganda.
The partnership also aligns with the World Bank’s broader commitment to supporting Uganda’s development agenda and strengthening country systems for environmental and social sustainability.
Together, the two institutions aim to equip professionals across government, the private sector, and development organizations with the skills required to ensure that Uganda’s development pathway remains inclusive, responsible, and environmentally sustainable.
Caroline Kainomugisha is the Communications Officer, Advancement Office, Makerere University
-
General6 days agoCall for Applications: Diploma Holders under Government Sponsorship 2026/2027
-
General6 days agoAdvert: Admissions for Diploma/Degree Holders under Private Sponsorship 2026/27
-
Agriculture & Environment2 weeks agoCAES Presents Overall Best Performing Student in the Sciences & a Record 28 PhDs at the 76th Graduation Ceremony
-
General6 days agoExtension of Application Deadline for Diploma/Degree Holders 2026/2027
-
Natural Sciences2 weeks agoMak 76th Graduation Ceremony: CoNAS Presents 16 PhDs & Best Performing Male Student in the Sciences