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Students With Disabilities Welfare Takes Centre Stage at Sensitization Workshop

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On 22nd June 2017, the Office of Dean of StudentsMakerere University organised a workshop to sensitize the institution’s Stakeholders on issues pertaining students with disability. Held in Senate Conference Hall, the workshop focused on developing a fundamental strategy to operationalize the Makerere University Policy on Students with Disabilities.

Speaking to the stakeholders, Management and members of staff present, the Dean of students Mr. Cyriaco Kabagambe said that the workshop kick-started efforts to practically implement the Makerere University Policy on Students with Disabilities. “Our aim is to create awareness of the importance of the policy through capacity building.  We want to take the policy off the shelf and put it into practice.

According to Mr. Kabagambe, the Policy on Students with Disability that was approved by the Makerere University Council in February 2014. This action was purposely to promote effective management, inclusion, participation and visibility of students of the university through deliberate supportive, sustainable and friendly physical and nonphysical environment.
The Dean of Students-Mr. Cyriaco Kabagambe convened the Stakeholders Workshop
The policy also mainstreamed the disability issues in all university programmes and activities, as well as promoted equalization of opportunities for students with disabilities and special needs in the university.

“This policy is very instrumental, based on research from different universities and other international policies. We looked at how we can create a conducive working and learning environment for the participation of students with disabilities in the university. And also promote consciousness and awareness among members of the University community about the rights and needs of students with disabilities and ways of supporting them,” he said.

On behalf of students with Disability at Makerere University, Mr. Okwii Simon Peter thanked the management and staff for ensuring effective, efficient and friendly service delivery to students with disabilities and Special Needs. “We are very grateful that out of the 64 slots the government of Uganda gives to personal with disabilities at higher institutions of learning, Makerere University takes the highest number of students during the entry application compared to other Public Institutions.”
Mr. Charles Ssentongo, Ag. Deputy Registrar (Undergraduate Admissions) contributes to the discussion during the workshop
Sharing an experience of students with disability at Makerere University, Mr. Okwii, a final year student at School of Law said that for long people have misinterpreted disability with only physical challenges. “Disability goes beyond what we can see in relation with the international convention. It goes a long way to include things we cannot see such as sickle cells, asthma, among others,” he explained.

He however, humbly called upon the university to look into the challenges that have persisted and greatly hindered his fellow students from having a convenient and enjoyable stay at campus.

“We have realised that the university has few sign posts and this has affected us. Another issue is to do with examinations, tests and course work. So many of my fellow students have failed to graduate in time due to missing marks. We find many challenges in classes with lecturers who don’t know how to handle us. Our request is to the university management is to carry out a capacity building workshop on how lecturers are supposed to handle us in class” Okwii said.
A sign language interpreter (R) helps students with hearing impairments to follow proceedings of the Stakeholders Workshop
During the workshop, the Programs Manager at National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPU) Mr. Ninsiima Chris encouraged students with disability to ignite a sense of self-esteem in their lives. ” The greatest enemy of the person with disability is the person with attitude. Remove all the stereotypes and names referring to you in form of sympathy. There is ability in disability and those abilities can flourish with support,” he said.

In a presentation he made on creating a conducive study environment for students with disability at Intuitions of Higher Learning, Mr Ninsiima urged institutions of higher learning to engage the entire community including persons with disability if they are to attain inclusive development.

“Inclusive development occurs when the entire community, including persons with disabilities, benefit equally from development processes. Inclusive development encourages awareness of and participation by all marginalized groups. Disability-inclusive development respects the diversity that disability brings and appreciates that it is an everyday part of the human experience. Disability-inclusive development sets out to achieve equality of human rights for persons with disabilities as well as full participation in, and access to, all aspects of society,” he stated.
Mr. David Nangosi emphasised the need for equity for students with disabilities
Discussing the rights of person with disability under a topic; enforcing human rights of students with disabilities in institutions, Mr. David Nangosi, the Legal Officer NUDIPU emphasized the need to promote equity among students in the university. “Don’t discriminate them, let them compete with others in the various university activities available. The only way to live is to achieve equity in life.

Speaking on the role of the Makerere University Library in adapting the new innovations and modern software to suit the needs of students with disability, Mr. Luyaaya Mathias, the Officer in charge of Students’ Information Services said that the University has put in place equipment that carter of the needs of students with disability.

“We have at least stocked machines and software that carter for both students that are deaf and those who are visually impaired. The library has also been set up to accommodate students with wheelchairs among others. However, the library still faces challenges of being under-staffed and lack enough equipment in the section,” Mr Luyaaya narrated.
Dr. Margaret Wandera addresses the Stakeholders Workshop
The Director Makerere University Hospital Dr. Margaret Wandera, encouraged the students with disability to fully utilize the university hospital services. According to Dr. Wandera the university hospital has put aside services accessible to only students with special needs.

In his speech, the Guild President H.E Kato Paul thanked the Office of the Dean of Students for the initiatives it has put in place to make sure that the Makerere University Policy on Students with Disability is operationalized. He pledged to work hand in hand with the Office of the Dean of Students to see to it that the entire university community understands and puts into practice the principles of the policy.
The Guild President-H.E. Kato Paul makes his speech at the Workshop
“We are also working hand in hand with the Office of the Dean of Students to see to it that we provide orientation to first year students specifically students with disability,” he said.

H.E Kato Paul also said that his Government has embarked on an affirmative action to help students with disabilities.  The Students Guild has in place a full ministry and a well allocated budget for the students with disabilities.

Article: Public Relations Office
 

Mark Wamai

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Press Statement: Makerere 76th Graduation Ceremony

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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 post graduate diplomas and 33 Postgraduate 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

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

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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

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

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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:

  • Dr. Kiyonga Crispus Walter, Chancellor of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Bukonzo West.
  • Mr. Kabaasa Bruce Balaba, Chair, Finance, Planning, Administration, and Investment Committee of the University Council, on his election as MP for Rubanda County West.
  • Mr. Alionzi Lawrence, former Guild President of Makerere University, on his election as Lord Mayor of Arua City.
  • Mr. Maseruka Robert, former Guild President of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Mukono South.
  • Mr. Gyaviira Lubowa Ssebina, former Deputy Bursar of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Nyendo–Mukungwe.
  • Prof. Lubega George Willy, former Staff at College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), on his election as MP for Bugangaizi South.
  • Prof. Ahebwa Wilber Manyisa, former Staff at College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), on his election as MP for Nakaseke North.
  • Hon. Adeke Anna Ebaju, former Guild President, on her re-election as Woman MP for Soroti District.
  • Hon. Onekalit Denis Amere, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Kitgum Municipality.
  • Hon. Karuhanga Gerald, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Ntungamo Municipality.
  • Hon. Aber Lillian, former Vice Guild President, on her re-election as Woman MP for Kitgum District.
  • Hon. Nyamutoro Phiona, former Vice Guild President, on her election as Woman MP for Nebbi 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

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