General
New MUASA Chairperson Swears In: Emphasises Association’s Financial Sustainability
The newly elected Chairperson of Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA) Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi has vowed to use his term of office to create a MUASA SACCO with the aim of strengthening the financial position of the Association. Speaking to the joyful audience at the swearing in ceremony held on 15th January 2018, Dr. Kamunyu said that the New MUASA Executive is committed to resource mobilisation and strengthening the financial position of the Association beyond the current income generating activities.
To achieve this, he pledged to institute processes and procedures that are guided by approved operating manuals with an improved outlook to governance as well as increased trust in the Association‘s ability to handle finances and guide investments.
“This SACCO will increase our social cohesion, empower us financially and increase our love for the Association. MUASA SACCO will not compete with any available saving options in the university as many may anticipate, it will instead expand saving opportunities for members but this time with clear social development objective and governance structure. The two years which we have started today seem few but will endeavour to lay a foundation for most viable projects,” he said.
Dr. Kamunyu envisions a meaningful and stronger MUASA that focuses on not only uniting but also positively changing the lives of its members beyond salary enhancement and harmonisation. According to Dr. Kamunyu, his team is also ready to work with the University Management to improve governance and promote compliance to policies and regulations.
“We want consistent improvement in ethical standards especially in the handling of financial, administrative and academic matters. We want transparency in staff development and promotions policy and procedures, college financial management and improved budgeting and compliance budgets. We will continue to call for action towards a pro service delivery procurement system and one that guarantees good value for money,” he said.
After serving as the Association’s Public Relations Officer for two years, Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi was on Monday 11th December 2017, elected as the new Chairperson of MUASA replacing Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu-Musoke; his term officially starting on 5th January 2018. He pointed to the past two years of serving MUASA as a period of learning to; serve people selflessly, take MUASA’s position seriously, listen to others carefully and be open minded.
“I therefore believe that my victory as the MUASA Chairperson was not out of persuasive campaign but out of the trust that MUASA fraternity have in me. Even when I know that the tasks ahead are many and yet with no straight forward methods of accomplishing them, I will be reminded of your resolute trust in my ability and push forward,” he remarked.
Dr. Kamunyu Muhwezi who was in the company of his beloved wife Mrs. Mariam Kamunyu and children Charles and Rebecca Kamunyu thanked the Almighty God and the MUASA fraternity for allowing him to serve the Association as the Chairperson. He also thanked the outgoing Chairperson Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu-Musoke and his Executive for steering the Association for the last five years. “Your leadership has brought various staff welfare achievements such as salary enhancement and health insurance. Together with my team, I promise to build on from where you have stopped. We hope that you will be available for consultation where need arises especially when we move to tap from your wealth of experience as MUASA leader” he said.
“I also thank the MUASA Electoral Commission for delivering a credible election. The election you organised has never been held in the history of MUASA. We are glad and honoured to have taken these respectable positions with undisputed mandate which we believe you made possible. We are partners in strengthening your mandate because we are aware that at some point, bad elections were threatening to undermine MUASA,” he added.
The swearing in ceremony was presided over by the Commissioner of Oaths His Worship Mr. Lawrence Tweyanze and witnessed by Jolly J. Sonko representing the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Service, the Representative from the Ministry of Educ ation and Sports, Makerere University Management and staff among others.
The Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe congratulated the new Executive and looked forward to their cooperation with the Management. He encouraged the team to consider looking for more aid and funds to boost the institution’s research.
“Research is one of the biggest pillars of Makerere University. This means that it needs to be heavily funded. We also have to enforce our policies that can keep the intuition’s research at the highest rank that is why I suggest that every PhD and Masters Student must begin to publish at least one publication before they finish. This is what the best universities do,” said the Vice Chancellor.
Prof. Nawangwe appreciated Dr. Kiggundu-Musoke and his Executive for employing diplomacy to win the negotiations on salary enhancement.
In the same spirit the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) Prof. William Bazeyo thanked the outgoing Executive for the tireless efforts to defend the rights of teaching staff. Prof. Bazeyo congratulated the incoming Executive and urged them to be that strong bridge between MUASA and Management so as to foster positive change at Makerere University.
He challenged the MUASA Executive to explore the available opportunities within the university so as to improve their finances.
The outgoing Chairperson Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu-Musoke congratulated Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi and his team upon being elected as the new MUASA Executive. He advised the new leadership to always use the appropriate solution for the situation at hand for the good of the people. “Leadership is not about doing a lot of talking, writing, striking, dialoguing, tweeting, whatsapping and mailing. It is about appropriate judgement that suits an environment to deliver services that promote the good of the community,” said Dr. Kiggundu-Musoke.
He urged the new leadership to create a close working relationship with the Government of Uganda and always engage Management when finding solutions to issues concerning the University.
“Makerere University is a Public Institution that demands close working relationship with the Government. Therefore, take this as important because the Government has a great stake…. In addition Management should not be treated as enemies but as a team that requires effective engagement. Both Academic and Non-Academic staff are great stakeholders and also require maximum respect as you deliver your services. Students are indispensable and they are the reason we exist,” he said.
He thanked the University Management, Council and members of staff for the support they have rendered to his Executive during the five years of his service. In a special way, Dr. Kiggundu-Musoke thanked the Government of Uganda, specifically H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his decision to enhance staff salaries.
“I thank the IGP Kale Kayihura for ensuring peace and stability at Makerere University and for his support that enabled us to meet the President on the salary issue. We thank the Ministry of Education and Sports for both moral and financial support towards our staff. I thank our fellow associations; Makerere University Administrative Staff Association, Non-Teaching Fraternity and NUEI for the generous support when we pushed the university and the Government to work on our demands,” he nostalgically said.
The newly elected MUASA Executive will be led by the Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi, the Chairperson and other remembers include:
• Assoc. Prof. Edward Nector Mwavu (Vice Chairman),
• Dr. Michael Walimbwa (General Secretary),
• Dr. Geoffrey Nuwagaba (Deputy General Secretary),
• Mr. Hussein Oria (Treasurer),
• Dr. Ronald Kakungulu-Mayambala (Academic & Research),
• Mr. Arthur Mugisha (Welfare),
• Mr. Allan Ochieng (Public & External Relations),
• Assoc. Prof. John Bosco Lamoris Okullo (CAES college representative),
• Mr. Milton Wabyona (CHUSS college representative),
• Dr. Anthony Tibaingana (CoBAMS college representative),
• Dr. Andrew Tamale (CoVAB college representative),
• Dr. Amin Kiggundu Tamale (CEDAT college representative),
• Dr. Erem Geoffrey (CHS college representative) and
• Mr. Mwanje Aloysius Desire (COCIS college representative).
Article by Public Relations Office
Education
Makerere University signs Memorandum of Understanding with International Rescue Committee to Advance Research, Innovation and Partnerships
Makerere University has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Rescue Committee to formalize undertakings in research, innovation & partnerships.
Signed in September 2025 by the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the Country Director, International Rescue Committee, Mr. Elijah Okeyo, the MoU provides a framework to implement research intensive programmes, promote innovative teaching and learning, internationalization, and contribute to societal transformation.
According to Mr. Okeyo, the MoU re-affirms Makerere University as the academic partner of the International Rescue Committee (IRC). “This MoU formalizes IRC’s working relationship with Makerere University. This framework empowers both institutions to tap into opportunities together. We believe in equal partnership. Makerere University commits to being our partner in research to contribute to evidence based humanitarian undertakings,” he said.
Under this collaboration, Makerere University and IRC will work on developing child-centered learning resources, innovative curricula, and policy-relevant research to enhance the quality of education in crisis-affected regions.
At Makerere University, the MoU brings on board, the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Research Centre.
To concretize the MoU, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga convened a partnership meeting on Friday 12th September 2025 involving a delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Dr. David Kabugo, the Deputy Director of Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and Ms. Ritah Namisango, the Principal Communication Officer.
The delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) consisted of the following: Mr. Elijah Okeyo-Country Director, Mr. Vincent Wanyama-Senior Program Development and Quality Coordinator, Mr. Richard Omasete-Policy and Advocacy PlayMatters, and Ms. Janet Nambuya-Grants and Partnerships Coordinator.
The MoU focuses on the following areas of interest: Early Childhood Development, joint research and capacity building in education, the plight of refugees and the host communities, humanitarian aid, as well as, evidence based research to inform the education policy.
In line with its mandate, IRC brings onboard, its unmatched expertise in helping children in crisis-affected areas. The MoU therefore positions both institutions to undertake a leading role in the protection of children and families through evidence based research, access to education, and humanitarian undertakings.
Dr. Kabugo, the Deputy Director MITER, noted that the MoU opens new opportunities for joint efforts in research, training, and policy. He said: “We are committed to co-designing practitioner research, engaging in professional development, and generating evidence to guide the education policy in Uganda and beyond.” Dr. Kabugo explained that this partnership builds on years of cooperation between CEES and IRC, especially in child-centered methods such as play-based learning.
Prof. Mugagga described the MOU as a practical framework that connects Makerere University’s research with IRC’s field experiences. He stated that the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) conducts programmes focused on the future of the young people through training and empowering students/teachers. He articulated that the College significantly impacts on the education sector through delivery of quality academic programmes and research under the School of Education, School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, and the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development.
“Our strongest synergy is education and early child-focused care,” Prof. Mugagga emphasized. He revealed that the collaboration presents CEES with a strong and reliable partner (IRC), which stands for protection and the well-being of children and families. “Through this MoU, both CEES and IRC, will significantly contribute to improving education for children, families, and communities impacted by conflict and crisis.”
Prof. Mugagga commended IRC for the earlier support and expertise extended to the College in the development of the early childhood centre, and working together to provide valuable input during the Ministry of Education and Sports’ consultative process that led to the Early Childhood development policy.
Reflecting on the increasing number of refugees enrolling for studies at Makerere University, Prof. Mugagga said: “ IRC has come at the right time. The College will tap into the IRC expertise to teach our staff and learners components in refugee education. They will equip our students and teachers with knowledge and skills in refugee education. Some of our students will cooperate with IRC to undertake research in refugee settlement and host communities.”
Prof. Mugagga implored both MITER and IRC to undertake research and develop modules on refugee education, parenting, re-tooling street children, integration of a health component into the curriculum, and management of truamatised students/learners who come from areas affected by war, conflict and crisis.
On the issue of play materials, Prof. Mugagga stressed that already made play materials derial creativing. “Both CEES and IRC should work towards a context that empowers children and learners to ignite their creative potential by developing home-made play materials,” he submitted.
About IRC
Stating a brief profile history about IRC, Mr. Okeyo explained that IRC is a global non-profit organisation that provides humanitarian aid and assistance to people affected by conflict and disaster. IRC has been active in Uganda since 1998, originally assisting displaced populations in Northern Uganda and later expanding its efforts to refugee settlements and urban areas.. Currently, IRC operates more than 35 health facilities in refugee settlements and runs a variety of programs in health, education, protection, and economic recovery. IRC also undertakes projects focusing on early childhood development, prevention of gender-based violence, and protection of refugees and families.
General
Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University encouraged to participate in philanthropy work
By Carol Kasujja Adii and Bernard Buteera
Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University have been encouraged to embrace the spirit of philanthropy as a vital foundation for fostering stronger and more resilient communities. This inspiring call to action took place during the 2025 Community Open Day at the Freedom Square on Saturday, September 6, 2025, where hundreds of Mastercard Scholars, Scholar-alumni, and partners of the Scholars Program gathered to initiate a fundraising drive for the signature Annual Scholars Day of Service.
The Annual Scholars Day of Service stands as a hallmark event through which the Scholars give back to the community in impactful and sustainable ways. During a keynote address titled “How Philanthropy Shapes Resilient Communities,” Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration, emphasised that while local philanthropy is not a new concept in Uganda, a more intentional mobilisation of this giving back power is necessary to address broader social challenges.
“Communities that mobilise their own resources—financial, human, and material—are empowered to take ownership of their development. Ownership naturally leads to sustainability, ensuring that solutions emerge from local knowledge, context, and values rather than being imposed from the outside. This approach is essential for effectively tackling our social challenges,” Prof. Ireeta stated.
In his remarks delivered by Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Ireeta highlighted the importance of nurturing the inherent power of local giving. He urged the celebration of current local philanthropic efforts, which can be initiated at the individual, religious, and community levels.
“To foster a culture of giving, we need to create platforms that promote structured, transparent, and impactful contributions,” he argued. “It’s crucial to strengthen our generosity, particularly among the youth, and cultivate a society where giving is valued as a core aspect of leadership and citizenship.”
Prof. Ireeta further noted, “The future of our Communities’ strength lies not in distant promises but in our own hands and collective actions. By fostering local philanthropy, we can build a society that is not only fairer but also more resilient and united.
In his welcoming remarks, Mr. John Osuna, Transition Lead for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, who spoke on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, expressed gratitude to the Scholars for their collaborative efforts in turning the idea of giving back into reality.
“Let us embody humility, kindness, and compassion through actionable philanthropy. By doing so, we can create lasting impacts, enhancing our reputation as a community that genuinely cares,” Mr. Osuna stated.
The Community Open Day was organised under the inspiring theme: “Nurturing Philanthropy for Resilient Communities,” paving the way for future initiatives that strengthen community bonds through collective generosity.
“We believe that through nurturing philanthropy for resilient communities, our communities shall be able to organise themselves to build resilience beyond what we shall give back,” Mr. Osuna explained.
The vibrant event saw Scholars and Scholar-alumni actively participating by bringing items for auction and buying tickets for the raffle draw as a means of mobilising resources for the construction of a ventilated pit latrine, renovation of two classroom blocks and providing tanks for harvesting clean water for Bwera Primary School in Kabale District.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Agnes Katumba, the Director of Katumba Estates, one of the long-standing partners of the Scholars Program at Makerere University, tasked the Scholars to embrace the heart of giving back without expecting something in return.
“I thank the Mastercard Foundation; they not only provide scholarships but also give back to the community. I have been able to grow because of them. For scholars, you do not have to wait to be wealthy to give back; every coin counts,” Mrs. Katumba said.
Katumba Estates Ltd contributed three million shillings to the Scholars Give Back project. Another long-standing partner, DFCU Bank, pledged over sh10 million towards the Scholars’ building project.
In her presentation, Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar-alumna, urged current Scholars to contribute to their communities in various ways, including mentorship and guiding young people.
“We are all here because someone chose to give. During my first year at Makerere, I contributed to some young man’s school fees back home in my community. The young man is now in his second year at Makerere. You don’t have to be wealthy to make an impact; be intentional in your giving, and you will witness the difference it makes. There is no greater fulfilment than helping someone in need,” Akwara stated.
The event was punctuated with a number of activities that ranged from auctioning items, raffle draws, exhibitions, quizzes and a lot of games and fun.
Carol Kasujja and Bernard Buteera form the communications team for the Scholars Programme at Makerere University.
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