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Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu Hands Over to Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe

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On completion of his five year tenure as Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu in the evening hours of Thursday, 31st August 2017 handed over office to the next Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

Effective 1st September 2017, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe is the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University.

The Vice Chairperson of Makerere University Council, Hon. Irene Ovonji-Odida presided over the handover meeting held in the Office of the Vice Chancellor.

During the meeting, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu congratulated Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe upon being appointed the next Vice Chancellor and wished him a successful tenure.

Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu commended the University Management team, Senate and Council, Government, staff and other stakeholders for the support accorded to him in the realization of the University’s core functions of teaching and learning; research and innovations; and knowledge transfer partnerships and networking.

Vice Chairperson Council-Hon. Irene Ovonji-Odida (C) poses with Incoming VC-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (L) and Outgoing VC-Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu (R)Cognizant that the Official handover Ceremony is scheduled to take place on 14th September 2017, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu pointed out that he would use the upcoming ceremony to share with the audience a detailed account of his experience during his five year tenure (1st September 2012 to 31st August 2017).

Drawing from his wealth of experience, Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu requested the Management Team and University Council to re-think the idea of merging the Planning and Development Department with the Finance Department.  “We need to re-think the Planning and Development Unit as an Independent Unit. It may not be a Directorate, but it should remain as independent Unit.” He also re-echoed the need to strengthen the human resource function of Makerere University.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe who was delighted to take over the mantle of leadership of this great institution thanked Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu for his enormous contribution towards the cause of building for the future. “Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu led the University during time of significant challenges, but despite those challenges, during his tenure the University continued to improve her research profile and productivity.”

Prof. Nawangwe noted that some of the infrastructural developments initiated during Prof. Ddumba’ tenure such as the AfDB-funded Central Teaching Facilities will improve the teaching and learning core function of the University. He thanked the University Council for entrusting him with the role of leading Makerere for the next five years.

“It means a lot for me to lead Makerere University. We have climbed high and it will be a challenge to not only keep our position but also overtake those ahead. As Management we are taking on a heavy responsibility but with God’s guidance and grace, we will take Makerere to greater heights” said Prof. Nawangwe.

L-R: Ag. Director Internal Audit-Mr. Benson Barigye, Ag. Director HR-Mrs. Dorothy Sennoga Zake, Incoming VC-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dep. Chairperson Council-Hon. Irene Ovonji-Odida, Outgoing VC-Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu and University Secretary-Mr. Charles Barugahare at the handover ceremony, 31st August 2017 In her remarks at the brief handover ceremony, Hon. Irene Ovonji-Odida shared with Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu and Prof. Nawangwe her dream of attracting the Government to boost its support for higher education in general and public funded Universities in particular. She emphasized the need for team work, good interpersonal relations, peace-making involving mediation and conflict resolution in our line of service.

“Council appreciates the work done under Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu’s leadership in the last five years. It is good that issues were discussed and resolved despite all differences in opinion. Going forward, I hope that this will still be the case” shared the Vice Chairperson.

The following Officers attended the handover meeting: The University Secretary/Secretary to Council- Mr. Charles Barugahare, Acting Director of Human Resources-Mrs. Dorothy Sennoga Zake, Acting Director Internal Audit-Mr. Benson Barigye; and staff from Makerere University Public Relations Office.

In his remarks, Mr. Charles Barugahare who moderated the handover ceremony said, “We registered significant achievements during Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu’s tenure and we thank him for leading us well. I welcome the Incoming Vice Chancellor-Prof. Nawangwe who was also part of these achievements. The task before you is to deliver higher education to the Nation and make sure that we register even more achievements.”

The official handover ceremony of the Vice Chancellor’s Office is scheduled to take place on 14th September 2017 in the Main Hall, Makerere University.

 

Article: Public Relations Office

 

Mark Wamai

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First Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Sarah Ssali courtesy visit to MakPress

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Prof. Sarah Ssali and Dr. William Tayeebwa together with staff show off some of MakPress' publications during the visit on 21st October 2025. First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

As part of her efforts to familiarize herself with the offices under her docket, the newly appointed First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, has embarked on a series of visits to different units that report to her office. One of these is the Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, on a courtesy call. She was received by the Managing Editor for MakPress, Dr. William Tayeebwa, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Journalism and Communication at the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Previously, MakPress operated jointly with the Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) and the Directorate of Research, Innovations and Partnerships (DRIP) before becoming a standalone entity. Accompanying Prof. Ssali on this visit were Prof. Julius Kikooma, the Director of DGT, and Mr. Mathias Ssemanda, the Acting Manager of the International Relations Office.

Prof. Sarah Ssali (2nd Right) flanked by Left-Right: Mr. Matthias Ssemanda, Prof. Julius Kikooma, Dr. William Tayeebwa and Ms. Eunice Rukundo signs the MakPress Visitors' Book. First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali (2nd Right) flanked by Left-Right: Mr. Matthias Ssemanda, Prof. Julius Kikooma, Dr. William Tayeebwa and Ms. Eunice Rukundo signs the MakPress Visitors’ Book.

During her visit to MakPress, Prof. Sarah Ssali commended the Unit for its progress and partnerships while emphasizing the need to strengthen collaboration with key institutions such as the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC), the Ministry of Education and Sports, and other universities. She encouraged the Press to explore practical working models, including leveraging external expertise and streamlining its printing processes to enhance efficiency. Prof. Ssali also highlighted the importance of safeguarding intellectual property, ensuring fair contractual terms with partners, and maintaining transparency in publishing agreements. She advised that Makerere University Press should position itself strategically by producing high-quality academic materials that serve both national and international audiences. Additionally, she urged the team to adopt a more consistent publication schedule—launching books quarterly or biannually—and to organize events where authors can engage directly with readers, scholars, and policymakers. Prof. Ssali reaffirmed the administration’s support toward building a stronger, more vibrant university press that effectively contributes to research dissemination, academic dialogue, and national development.

Dr. William Tayeebwa (R) autographs a copy of the Centennial Publication "Makerere's Century of Service to East Africa and Beyond" for Prof. Sarah Ssali (Right). First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. William Tayeebwa (R) autographs a copy of the Centennial Publication “Makerere’s Century of Service to East Africa and Beyond” for Prof. Sarah Ssali (Right).

During the courtesy visit, Dr. William Tayeebwa highlighted the milestones and ongoing projects at the Press. He spoke about the growing partnerships with institutions such as the University of Chicago Press, the University of California Press, and the African Books Collective, which have enhanced both local and international visibility of Makerere’s publications. “Why make a university press when you have Makerere University Press”, Dr. Tayeebwa said urging public universities to utilize MakPress. Dr. Tayeebwa also shared that the Press has republished several titles, launched new book projects, and developed a digital platform that enables readers to access and purchase books online. However, he pointed out a number of challenges affecting the Press’s operations, including inadequate funding, limited printing capacity at the university printery, and delays that often affect the timely release of publications. He further noted the difficulty of accessing generated funds due to bureaucratic procedures, space and infrastructure limitations, and the continued confusion between the roles of the Press and the printery. Despite these challenges, Dr. Tayeebwa reaffirmed the commitment of his team to strengthen Makerere University Press as a central pillar in advancing research dissemination and academic publishing.

Dr. William Tayeebwa (3rd R) gestures during MakPress Staff interaction with the DVCAA. First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. William Tayeebwa (3rd R) gestures during MakPress Staff interaction with the DVCAA.

Eve Nakyanzi

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MURBS celebrates growth in FY2024/25 performance

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Left to Right: Prof. Sarah Ssali, Mrs. Lorna Magara, Dr. Michael Kizito and Mr. Mark Lotukei at the presentation of MURBS FY2024/2025 performance on 21st October 2025. Makerere University Retirement Benefit Scheme (MURBS) presents performance of Financial Year 2024/2025 to the sponsor, the University Council and other stakeholders, 21st October 2025, Telepresence Centre, Senate building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University Retirement Benefit Scheme (MURBS) has presented its performance of Financial Year 2024/2025 to the sponsor, the University Council and other stakeholders on 21st of October in the Telepresence Centre, Senate building. MURBS which is a Mandatory Employer-Based Scheme was established by Makerere University under an irrevocable trust effective 1st April 2009 to provide retirement benefits to employees of Makerere University.

Council applauds MURBS Performance

In her remarks at the presentation, the Chairperson of the University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, commended the Scheme’s steady progress and reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to safeguarding staff welfare. She noted that MURBS has grown into a trusted, transparent, and professionally managed scheme that continues to strengthen confidence among staff. Mrs. Magara praised the Board of Trustees for their prudent management and governance, describing their work as not merely financial stewardship but the protection of the hopes and futures of Makerere families. She urged continued focus on member education, digital service delivery, and sustainable fund growth, emphasizing that the ultimate goal is to build a lasting legacy of trust and financial wellbeing for all university employees.

Mrs. Lorna Magara. Makerere University Retirement Benefit Scheme (MURBS) presents performance of Financial Year 2024/2025 to the sponsor, the University Council and other stakeholders, 21st October 2025, Telepresence Centre, Senate building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Lorna Magara.

MURBS demonstrates liquidity and resilience amid a volatile economy

Representing the Vice Chancellor, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, commended the Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) for its continued growth, accountability, and prudent management. She applauded the Scheme’s record fund value of UGX 475 billion and its unqualified audit opinion from KPMG, describing these milestones as clear evidence of transparency and sound governance. Prof. Ssali reaffirmed Makerere University’s full commitment as the Scheme’s sponsor, noting the progress made in clearing historical arrears and supporting MURBS operations. She praised the Board’s disciplined investment strategy—particularly its diversification into unit trusts and near-cash assets—which has enhanced liquidity and resilience amid a volatile economy. Highlighting MURBS as a model of good governance and accountability, Prof. Ssali emphasized that a reliable retirement scheme not only secures staff futures but also strengthens motivation, productivity, and institutional excellence.

Prof. Sarah Ssali. Makerere University Retirement Benefit Scheme (MURBS) presents performance of Financial Year 2024/2025 to the sponsor, the University Council and other stakeholders, 21st October 2025, Telepresence Centre, Senate building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali.

Embrace digital transformation – URBRA urges

From Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority (URBRA), the Manager Market Conduct, Mr. Mark Lotukei commended MURBS for its continued commitment to compliance, member education, and sectoral excellence. He highlighted that the Authority has been focusing its trainings on strengthening trustees’ capacity, with recent sessions covering strategic tax planning to help schemes minimize liabilities and safeguard members’ funds. Mr. Lotukei further announced upcoming trainings on benefits administration, stakeholder roles, and the contribution of pension funds to infrastructure and economic development. Emphasizing the evolving nature of the pension landscape, he urged trustees to embrace digital transformation, improve communication with members, and promote sustainable and innovative investment strategies. He concluded by reaffirming URBRA’s commitment to supporting MURBS and other schemes, assuring stakeholders of the Authority’s openness to continued collaboration and guidance.

Mr. Mark Lotukei. Makerere University Retirement Benefit Scheme (MURBS) presents performance of Financial Year 2024/2025 to the sponsor, the University Council and other stakeholders, 21st October 2025, Telepresence Centre, Senate building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Mark Lotukei.

Fund Value Hits Record UGX 475 billion

In his presentation on the performance, the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Michael Kizito, highlighted the Scheme’s continued growth, prudent financial management, and commitment to transparency. He reported that MURBS’ total assets had risen to UGX 475 billion, up from UGX 409 billion the previous year, reflecting strong investment performance and effective governance. Dr. Kizito commended the University management for timely remittances and reaffirmed the Board’s focus on sound risk management, diversification, and member satisfaction. He acknowledged the dedication of the trustees, staff, and service providers, noting that their collective effort has positioned MURBS for sustainable success. Looking ahead, he emphasized the Scheme’s intention to strengthen alternative investments and optimize operations to deliver even greater value to members and stakeholders.

Dr. Michael Kizito. Makerere University Retirement Benefit Scheme (MURBS) presents performance of Financial Year 2024/2025 to the sponsor, the University Council and other stakeholders, 21st October 2025, Telepresence Centre, Senate building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Michael Kizito.

The presentation of the performance of the scheme is one of the activities leading to the Annual General Meeting and it is done to management and the Sponsor of MURBS. The presentation, which attracted several key stakeholders including members of the University Council and representatives from Stanbic Bank and Old Mutual, concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session moderated by Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi. The session provided an opportunity for participants to seek clarity on the Scheme’s performance, governance practices, and investment strategies, fostering transparency and open dialogue between the MURBS leadership and its partners. MURBS is licensed by the Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority (License No. RBS.0005).

Eve Nakyanzi

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Mak Management Decries Student Violence at Mitchell Hall

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An older photo of the Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda as seen from across the Freedom Square. Date taken: 22nd October 2012.

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

All Students,

Makerere University

Dear All,

RE:  VIOLENCE IN MITCHELL HALL OF RESIDENCE

This is to address recent incidents of student violence targeting individuals at Mitchell Hall of residence. Fortunately, the police intervened and prevented harm.

Violence of any kind is unacceptable and has no place at Makerere University. Every member of the University Community deserves to live without fear of violence or harassment.

The University has launched an investigation into the matter and once concluded, strict disciplinary action will be taken against those found responsible in accordance with University Rules & Regulations.

I urge all students to: 

  • Refrain from violence and harassment
  • Report incidences of violence to University Management

As we Build for the Future

Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli

DEAN OF STUDENTS

Mak Editor

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