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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni launches Annual Nelson Mandela Commemorative Lecture

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The President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni last week launched the Makerere University Annual Nelson Mandela Commemorative Lecture. The launch followed a public lecture in honour of Nelson Mandela organized by the Department of Political Science and Public Administration in collaboration with the South African High Commission. Held under the theme; Mandela the Legend: A Message for the Youth, the lecture took place in the University Main Hall and was attended by among others, several dignitaries from the Governments of Uganda and South Africa, members of the University Council and Management as well as staff and students. At the public lecture, Mandela’s granddaughter, Ms Zoleka Mandela, delivered a keynote address in which she shared moving testimonies of her personal experience growing up under apartheid with absent parents involved in the liberation struggle, later on giving a message of hope to young people experiencing similar challenges.

Ms Zoleka Mandela “My personal experiences growing up as a child were largely afflicted by the repercussions of growing up in an unconventional and unstable home environment that was mostly vulnerable. I had my first drink at the age of nine, followed by multiple encounters with sexual and physical abuse. The severity of my drinking and drug use at the age of thirteen had escalated to a seventeen-year addiction to alcohol and suicidal behavior that was accompanied by a decade of drug dependency. An unsheltered life, poorly protected from the demoralizing ills of society is a narrative commonly shared by many youth and those like me who are born in politically famous families. I however assure you that much as you may feel unimportant, uninvolved and unheard, there are seeds of greatness that exist within you, seeds that will inevitably blossom whatever way the winds of life may blow you,” Ms Zoleka explained. Despite her tragic life as a youth, Ms. Zoleka has grown into a responsible adult now managing the Zoleka Mandela Foundation. Established in 2013, the foundation aims to educate young people about breast cancer, road safety and social responsibilities. The foundation also seeks to assist young people with personal growth, volunteerism and accountability to become responsible citizens.

Like her grandfather, Ms Zoleka emphasized the importance of education in fostering personal development noting that the quality of education has great impact on the quality of someone’s life. “My grandfather was passionate about education and always thought of it as a formidable approach to changing the world. Young people must therefore take it upon themselves to receive the highest level of education to represent us well as future leaders,” she said.

Ms Zoleka further said her grandfather believed so much in the youth as determinants of society’s future and greatly emphasized the need for all children to have political, social and cultural protection.

The discussants who included Prof. Mahmood Mamdani, Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, Dr Julius Kiiza, Hon. Anna Adeke Ebaju and Brig. Henry Masiko, applauded Nelson Mandela’s selfless contribution to the liberation struggle of South Africa saying he exhibited servant leadership skills and  was indeed a true legend. They underscored the need to empower young people pointing to their critical role in the social, economic and political  transformation of nation states across the globe.

In his remarks, President Museveni paid glowing tribute to Nelson Mandela for his selfless contribution to the liberation of South Africa in particular and the African Continent in general. He noted that Nelson Mandela played a crucial role in the liberation of South Africa by injecting a spirit of activism into the African National Congress as the first leader of the youth wing in 1944, which redefined the ANC’s struggle in the eyes of the apartheid regime.The panelists

He further noted that Mandela played a critical role in the launching of the freedom charter of 1955 that emphasized the fight for freedom for all South Africans no matter their color or race.

He said Mandela’s involvement in recruiting and fighting in the armed resistance, his refusal to collaborate with his oppressors even after a long jail period and preaching the message of reconciliation between South Africans without revenging against his former oppressors, made him a unique freedom fighter.

The President, however, said that the plight and suffering of the generation of the late Nelson Mandela, is closely related to the plight and history of the African continent. He noted that although the African continent derives pride in being the origin of humanity, a pioneer of civilization and also being blessed with abundant natural resources, on account of lack of a clear ideology and poor governance, the continent has suffered several setbacks in the last 500 years putting it and her people behind all other continents in terms of development.

The President said that because of being poorly governed under many fragmented kingdoms and chiefdoms, the African people became more vulnerable when they were confronted by foreign forces of domination especially from Europe that led Africa into suffering from slave trade, colonialism and neo-colonialism.

He said that to honour the late Nelson Mandela and other African freedom fighters for independence, the current leaders on the continent as well as the coming generations need to work to economically and politically unite the African continent to ensure economic prosperity and strategic security.

Speaking at the public lecture, the South African High Commissioner expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda and Makerere University in particular for providing a platform to carry forward the legacy of Mandela through the Annual Nelson Mandela Commemorative Lectures.President Yoweri Museveni

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu, thanked the Department of Political Science and Public Administration for spearheading the initiative to recognize the contribution of the Mandela family to the liberation of the African Continent. He extended appreciation to the South African High Commission for the support rendered to Makerere University in its effort to recognize the great works of the Mandela family.

The Principal of CHUSS, Prof. Edward K. Kirumira, explained the contribution of the humanities and social sciences to national development calling for the amendment of the policy that emphasizes the natural sciences over behavioral sciences. He appealed to the youth to emulate Mandela’s legacy by “working towards leaving a good name”.

The Dean, School of Social Sciences, Dr Andrew Elias State, called for the establishment of a Nelson Mandela Scholarship Fund to carry forward his legacy. He also called for the establishment of a Y.K Museveni Scholarship Fund to promote and strengthen the training of peace and security studies.

In her remarks, the Head Department of Political Science and Public Administration, Dr Suzie Nansozi Muwanga extended her sincere appreciation to the sponsors of the public lecture. The sponsors included Eskom, Toyota Uganda, Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, Stanbic Bank and Pinnacle Security Group.

Denis Wamala

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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 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

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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: Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā  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. Ā 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 ā€œCONFIDENTIAL: POSITION OF SECOND DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLORā€ 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:Ā 

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

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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:

  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

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