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Katikkiro Set to Grace MakRun2018 as Chief Runner

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The Katikkiro of Buganda Ow’ekitiibwa Charles Peter Mayiga has accepted the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s invitation to grace the 2018 edition of the Makerere University Run (MakRun) as Chief Runner.

“I was humbled to receive the letter signed by the Makerere University Endowment Fund Board Chairman, Dr. Martin Aliker, I appreciate the thought and I am very happy to accept this invitation. As an alumnus, I am very proud of Makerere University and this is a great opportunity to give back to my alma mater” said the Katikkiro to the delegation led by the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

The MakRun now in its second edition is one of the strategies by MakEF to raise funds for the University, and the construction of a state-of-the-art Students Centre is the flagship project. As final preparations get underway for the 25th March 2018 run, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe accompanied by the Principal, College of Education and External Studies (CEES) and Buganda Minister of Education and Sports-Prof. Fred Masagazi Masaazi, Director Planning and Development Department (PDD)-Dr. Florence Nakayiwa and Ms. Gloria Nakyeyune-PDD officially presented the Katikkiro with his MakRun kit on Monday, 5th March 2018 at his offices in Bulange, Mengo.

Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga (2nd R) flanked by the Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (R), Prof. Fred Masagazi Masaazi (2nd L) and Dr. Florence Nakayiwa (L) at the MakRun2018 Courtesy Call on the Katikkiro, Bulange, Mengo, Kampala Uganda

“Heading Makerere University is a prestigious position that comes with great responsibility, and I congratulate you upon being elected Vice Chancellor,” said the Katikkiro to Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. “Despite all the challenges, Makerere is still the leading Higher Education Institution in the region and all the people I have talked to say that you are equal to the challenge. I have no doubt that you will overcome these challenges and take Makerere even greater heights” added Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga.

The Katikkiro further shared from his experience as a lawyer and employer that Makerere continues to produce graduates that have a sense of tradition, are unique and exhibit the quality demanded by the legal profession. “I commend the Management and staff upon setting the standard. Makerere has not lost its reputation as the top University and we must do all that we can to preserve its legacy and uphold its standards” said Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga.

In his remarks, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe thanked the Katikkiro for receiving his delegation in a grand way. He acknowledged the rich history between Makerere and Buganda and appreciated the Kingdom for donating the land upon which the University is built. “Makerere still occupies some land under the Buganda Land Board’s jurisdiction and we sincerely thank you the Katikkiro for your support in ensuring that we have a cordial working relationship with the Board” said the Vice Chancellor.

The Katikkiro of Buganda Ow’ekitiibwa Charles Peter Mayiga endorses the MakRun2018 on 5th March 2018, Bulange Mengo, Kampala Uganda

Prof. Nawangwe shared that one of the Halls of Residence for gentlemen was named after former Buganda Katikkiro Martin Luther Nsibirwa in appreciation of Buganda Kingdom’s support to the University. The Vice Chancellor further said that as the home to top brains in the country, Makerere is willing to partner with Buganda Kingdom; with the endorsement of the Katikkiro, to support development projects aimed at improving the welfare of its subjects in Buganda and all residents of Uganda.

Makerere University is one of the few leading institutions in the world that does not have its own Students Centre and Teaching Hospital. The purpose of our visit here today is to improve and increase collaboration between our two institutions and in particular ask you use all resources at your disposal to publicise the MakRun 2018 and raise funds for the Makerere University Endowment Fund” said Prof. Nawangwe.

After reviewing a brief video showcasing historical buildings such as the first Administration Block built in 1922 and innovations like the Kayoola electric bus, the Katikkiro thanked the Vice Chancellor and Makerere University for reaching out to him.

Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga (R) presents the Buganda Kingdom Certificate to Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (2nd R) as Prof. Fred Masagazi Masaazi (2nd L) and Dr. Florence Nakayiwa (L) witness. The Katikkiro thanked Makerere University Council and the Office of the Vice Chancellor for purchasing certificates worth UGX1million and UGX500,000 respectively, Bulange, Mengo, Kampala Uganda

Commenting on the brief video, the Katikkiro said, “I saw an image of the first Main Building of 1922 and thought to myself, why not replicate this same design for the proposed Students Center? A careful observation shows that the Basilica of the Uganda Martyrs in Namugongo mimics the design of the Kasubi Tombs. The architect replicated the design of the traditional palace of that age. That’s the idea and as an architect, I think this would be a fantastic concept for the Students Centre,” enthused the Katikkiro to the Vice Chancellor.

Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga then vowed to mobilise his people, including his fitness partners and office staff come and join him at the MakRun 2018. “I am proud of Makerere University. My children have gone through the Hill; as we used to call it, and so have almost all Members of the Lukiiko who are degree holders. As one who spent some of my early years residing on campus with my late sister Theresa Nanziri, who was murdered by the Amin regime, and later as a Goat, resident at University Hall, we have to keep Makerere’s fire burning brightly,” he said.

The Katikkiro also took the opportunity to thank Prof. Fred Masagazi Masaazi for promoting and enriching the Luganda vocabulary, as well as Kingdom educational activities. He thanked the Makerere University Council and Office of the Vice Chancellor for contributing to the Buganda Kingdom treasury by purchasing certificates worth UGX1million and UGX500,000 respectively. He also thanked the delegation for presenting him with the Mak necktie, as well as an assortment of university branded souvenirs.

Article by Public Relations Office

Mark Wamai

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Call For Expression of Interest: MURBS MIS Requirements Gathering

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The reconstituted Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) Board of Trustees as of 1st April 2025 from Left to Right: George Bamugemereire, CPA Edna Isimbwa Rugumayo, CPA Francesca Angida Mugyema, Michael Kizito (PhD), Elizabeth P. Nansubuga (PhD), Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi (PhD), and Mr. Joseph Ikarokok. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

1.0 Background

Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) is a Mandatory Employer-Based Scheme established under irrevocable trusts to provide retirement benefits to employees of Makerere University and operates in accordance with its Trust Deed and Scheme Rules, as amended on 30 May 2023.

MURBS is committed to enhancing operational efficiency and data-driven decision-making. MURBS has grown over the years and is looking to develop a system that offers comprehensive information systems integration and reporting capabilities to support effective management.

MURBS invites qualified and experienced consulting firms/consultants to submit their Expression of Interest (EOI) for the requirements gathering necessary to develop and implement a comprehensive Management Information System (MIS). The purpose of this initiative is to gather detailed user needs and technical specifications to ensure the successful design, development, and deployment of the Management Information System (MIS).

2.0 Objectives of the Requirements Collection

The consultant/firm shall be responsible for achieving the objectives, which include:

  1. To understand and document the detailed functional and non-functional requirements of the MURBS MIS.
  2. To identify user needs across various departments and levels of management.
  3. To establish technical specifications and data architecture needs.
  4. To ensure alignment with organizational goals and compliance standards.
  5. To provide a foundation for the subsequent design, development, and implementation phases.

3.0 Scope of Work

The selected consultant/firm will be responsible for:

  1. Conducting stakeholder interviews and workshops across departments.
  2. Reviewing existing systems (if any), workflows, and data sources.
  3. Documenting current processes and identifying gaps.
  4. Collecting and prioritizing user requirements.
  5. Developing a comprehensive requirements specification document.
  6. Validating requirements with stakeholders.
  7. Providing recommendations for system features, integrations, and technical architecture.

4.0 Eligibility Criteria – Qualification and Experience

The Firm/Consultant must submit a detailed written statement to confirm the following minimum requirements:

  1. Proven experience in requirements gathering for MIS or similar systems.
  2. A strong understanding of data management, reporting, and analytics; and Public Financial Management (PFM) knowledge.
  3. Experience working in the IT industry; at least 10 years in the software and system development industry.
  4. Adequate technical and functional expertise. The Firm/Consultant should be familiar with the various stages of system development, from design to implementation and testing; and should be familiar with different requirements gathering methodologies.
  5. Successful track record of similar projects undertaken, including different requirements gathering methodologies.

5.0 Responding to this Call

  1. Interested parties should submit their EOIs, including:
    • i) Cover letter expressing interest.
    • ii) Company/consultant profile with relevant experience.
    • iii) Methodology/approach to requirements collection.
    • iv) List of key personnel involved.
    • v) Examples of similar projects undertaken.
    • vi) Tax clearance system.
    • vii) Proof of membership to a professional body in Uganda or internationally.
    • viii) Any other relevant information.
  1. The EOI should be addressed to;

The Principal Pension Officer
Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme
P.O. Box 7827, Kampala
Lincoln Flats – B4, Makerere University
Tel: +256 (414) 531472
Email: info@murbs.mak.ac.ug

  1. A completed and sealed EOI should be hand-delivered and submitted at the Scheme Office, and an electronic copy of the EOI should be sent to info@murbs.mak.ac.ug.

Disclaimer: This EOI is not a procurement contract and does not commit MURBS to select any respondent. It is an invitation for expressions of interest to facilitate the subsequent formal procurement process.

Deadline for Submission: 2 July 2025 (3:00 p.m.)

Licensed by the Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority (RBS.0005)

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Mirror Frank Kalimuzo’s life of service-MUBS Principal

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Seated L-R: Mrs. Allen Kagina, Prof. Moses Muhwezi, Mrs. Esther Kallimuzo and her daughter with dignitaries and family at the 2nd Frank Kalimuzo on 13th June 2025. 2nd Frank Kalimuzo Memorial Lecture, theme ‘Building a culture of service in Public Institutions’ organised in partnership with Makerere University Business School (MUBS), 13th June 2025, Main Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Principal of Makerere University Business School (MUBS), Prof. Moses Muhwezi, has called upon Ugandans to emulate the life of the late Frank Kalimuzo.

Today, (Friday, June 13, 2025), Makerere University hosted the 2nd Frank Kalimuzo Memorial Lecture, an event that brought together distinguished public servants, University leaders and stakeholders to honor the legacy of the late Frank Kalimuzo, Makerere University‘s first Ugandan Vice Chancellor.

The event held under the theme Building a culture of service in Public Institutions’ highlighted lessons from Frank Kalimuzo’s leadership and provided an opportunity to examine how institutions of higher learning can cultivate these same qualities of service in an era where universities are increasingly called upon to be engines of innovation, drivers of economic development and guardians of knowledge.

In his welcome speech, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, noted that the Frank Kalimuzo Annual Public Lecture serves not only as a commemorative event but as a platform for critical reflection on the principles and values that should guide our institutions in an ever-evolving world.

Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta. 2nd Frank Kalimuzo Memorial Lecture, theme ‘Building a culture of service in Public Institutions’ organised in partnership with Makerere University Business School (MUBS), 13th June 2025, Main Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta.

“The late Frank Kalimuzo remains an exemplar of dedicated public service and transformational leadership. As Makerere University‘s first Ugandan Vice Chancellor, he navigated the institution through a critical period of transition with wisdom, integrity, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His legacy extends far beyond his tenure at this university, as the first Head of Public Service, first Ugandan Secretary to Cabinet, and first Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, he helped lay the foundation for Uganda’s administrative structures,” Prof. Ireeta, noted.

Prof. Ireeta explained that what distinguished Frank Kalimuzo, was not merely his succession of firsts, but his approach to leadership, characterized by humility, service, and an unyielding dedication to the common good.

“As we continue to build on the strong foundation laid by pioneers like Frank Kalimuzo, we must ask ourselves: How do we nurture leaders who serve with integrity? How do we create institutional cultures that prioritize the common good? How do we ensure that our graduates carry forward the values of service and excellence that have defined this university for over a century,” Prof. Ireeta, pondered?

Presenting a paper titled ‘Building a culture of service in Public Institutions’ Prof. Muhwezi, noted that Mr. Kalimuzo was not merely an academic administrator but more importantly, a servant-leader whose life exemplified the highest ideals of public service.

“Mr. Frank Kalimuzo’s life teaches us that public service is not a career choice but a calling, a commitment to using one’s talents, position, and influence to advance the common good. His example shows us that it is possible to maintain integrity, drive innovation, and achieve excellence even within imperfect systems,” Prof. Muhwezi, said.

Principal MUBS and Keynote Speaker, Prof. Moses Muhwezi. 2nd Frank Kalimuzo Memorial Lecture, theme ‘Building a culture of service in Public Institutions’ organised in partnership with Makerere University Business School (MUBS), 13th June 2025, Main Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Principal MUBS and Keynote Speaker, Prof. Moses Muhwezi.

In his keynote address, Prof. Muhwezi, explained that Mr. Kalimuzo consistently demonstrated that effective public service requires placing institutional objectives above personal ambitions. He added that when faced with unprecedented resistance from various quarters, like academics who questioned his credentials to those who opposed political appointees in university leadership, Mr. Kalimuzo responded not with defensiveness but with dedication to proving himself through service.

To deal with challenges of the 21st century, Prof. Muhwezi, pointed out that the Country needs public institutions that are fit for purpose and leaders who understand that their primary responsibility is to serve, not to be served.

“We need to leave some legacy when we are out of our institutions. We should be brave. As public servants, we learn that Mr. Kalimuzo kept brave even after disappearance of other prominent personalities. As a leader, you should not be the first person to panic,” Prof. Muhwezi, said.

Prof. Muhwezi reminded leaders that they do not need many years to create impact. He explained that although Mr Kalimuzo’s tenure as Vice Chancellor was short-lived, his impact, like a writing on the wall, remains for all to see.

“When given an opportunity to serve, don’t be distracted. Offer skilled leadership execution even in the middle of the storm. As we play around with politics, we should promote peace. As an educated class, we should be good examples. We should appreciate the freedom of speech we enjoy at the moment,” Prof. Muhwezi, noted.

On 23rd June 2022, the University Leadership dedicated the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility in his honor, that stands as a physical reminder of his contributions. But more importantly, it symbolizes the University’s commitment to ensuring that his values and principles continue to shape generations of students who will go forth to serve Uganda and the world.

Mrs. Esther Kalimuzo assisted by her daughter delivers her remarks. 2nd Frank Kalimuzo Memorial Lecture, theme ‘Building a culture of service in Public Institutions’ organised in partnership with Makerere University Business School (MUBS), 13th June 2025, Main Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Esther Kalimuzo assisted by her daughter delivers her remarks.

During the event, Mr. Kalimuzo’s family expressed gratitude to the University Leadership for always honouring a man who served the University, nation, and its people with distinction.

Addressing guests, Mrs. Esther Kalimuzo, the widow of the late Frank Kalimuzo, noted that although to-date the family has no grave, no explanation and no closure, his silence has not been wasted. On the contrary, it has become a witness, and his disappearance has become a declaration that Uganda has known men who refused to bow.

“After Frank was taken, I was left with our children young, tender, full of questions I could not answer. They were raised with memory instead of presence, with principle instead of protection. And yet, through all the hardship, uncertainty, and pain they endured. They overcame. Today, our children stand tall. They are proud citizens of Uganda, and residents in nations far beyond. They have carried their father’s spirit into classrooms, workplaces, and communities across the world. They embody the values they barely had time to hear him speak, values they absorbed through the echo of his life and the strength of his memory,” orated Mrs Kalimuzo to an audience that listened silently in great admiration.

Delivering the closing remarks, the Chairperson of the University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, noted that Makerere’s strategic plan echoes Mr. Kalimuzo’s spirit of innovation and visionary leadership.

Mrs. Lorna Magara delivers her remarks. 2nd Frank Kalimuzo Memorial Lecture, theme ‘Building a culture of service in Public Institutions’ organised in partnership with Makerere University Business School (MUBS), 13th June 2025, Main Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Lorna Magara delivers her remarks.

“The insights shared today provide a valuable framework for addressing current leadership challenges within African institutions. Makerere University Council is already advancing key recommendations through our Strategic Plan (2020/21–2024/25), with an emphasis on building a responsive and research-driven institution,” Mrs Magara, said.

Mrs. Magara also pointed out that Mr. Kalimuzo’s values deserve continued critical reflections and practical application in leadership development, noting that they remain relevant not just for Makerere’s transformation, but for the renewal of public institutions across the continent.

“As the late Prof. Asavia Wandira reminded us during Makerere’s 90th Anniversary, our historic mission is “to be the Golden Apex of the Education System, consistent with National Development.” This mission remains unfinished. Rising societal challenges from youth unemployment to public health demand the very kind of ethical, visionary leadership Mr. Kalimuzo embodied,” Mrs. Magara concluded.

Mrs. Allen Kagina moderated the day's discussion. 2nd Frank Kalimuzo Memorial Lecture, theme ‘Building a culture of service in Public Institutions’ organised in partnership with Makerere University Business School (MUBS), 13th June 2025, Main Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Allen Kagina moderated the day’s discussion.

During the interactive discussions chaired by Mrs. Allen Kagina, the Chairperson of the Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council, Mrs Kalimuzo shared with the guests that when her husband went missing, she did all kinds of odd jobs to see her children through School and put food on the table. Hard work and the grace of God, she said, were the hallmarks of how she managed to raise her young family.

Organized in partnership with Makerere University Business School, the 2025 lecture was crowned with a surprise 90th Birthday celebration for Mrs. Esther Kalimuzo. It was all tears of joy as she cut cake with her grandchildren surrounded by family and friends.

A surprise 90th Birthday celebration for Mrs. Esther Kalimuzo at the event. 2nd Frank Kalimuzo Memorial Lecture, theme ‘Building a culture of service in Public Institutions’ organised in partnership with Makerere University Business School (MUBS), 13th June 2025, Main Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A surprise 90th Birthday celebration for Mrs. Esther Kalimuzo at the event.

Frank Kalimuzo at glance

Born on 24th September 1925, the late Kalimuzo was the first Vice-Chancellor of the newly formed Makerere University away from the colonial and white man’s control. He was appointed on 1st July 1970 by the then President H.E. Apollo Milton Obote. Frank Kalimuzo transformed the institution from a colonial-era university into a truly national institution serving Ugandan society. His brief but impactful tenure established principles of service-oriented leadership that continue to influence public institutional management across East Africa

He held an Overseas Course B from Wadham College in Oxford, UK (1956), an Honors Degree (Economics Major) from the University College of Aberystwyth in Wales (1955), and a BA in Education from Makerere University (1946).

In his brief tenure, courses like Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Forestry, Bachelor of Laws, and Bachelor of Technology were added to the University’s Curriculum. Veterinary Medicine, which was being offered at the University of Nairobi, was also introduced at Makerere University, while Music, Dance, and Drama became diploma subjects. The Main Library and Albert Cook Medical Library were extended in 1972. Later that year, during former President Idi Amin’s rule, Mr. Kalimuzo was picked up by security personnel and was never seen alive again.

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Directorate of Graduate Training Rolls out Research Management Information Sytems (RIMS)

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By: Moses Lutaaya

The Directorate of Graduate Training is rolling out the Research Management Information systems (RIMS) to efficiently and effectively monitor the academic progress of all graduate students.

“RIMS will be used to track efficiently every stage of activity of graduate studies from course works, research concept to thesis completion.” The Director of Graduate Training, Prof. Julius Kikooma said.

He added, “The RIMS team is here to share developments on the system that are designed to support the agenda of Makerere university. When graduate students enter a given chapter of their research works, their supervisors will automatically receive mail prompts to swiftly handle, give comments and guide the students on the way forward.”

During the roll out training recently at the College of Health Sciences in Mulago, Prof. Kikooma said, “The Directorate of Graduate Training is working in collaboration with Directorate of Innovation, Research and Partnerships (DIRP) and the Directorate of Information Communication and Technology Support (DICTS) to ensure a smooth training to all the schools and colleges. Digitalising the graduate management process is anticipated to increase the number of graduate admissions and completion in the long run.”

“As the three directorates, we sat and reviewed the university graduate strategy and policies around it. We got reviewed policies and procedures approved by the University Senate last year. We no longer have provisional admission letter requirement for our PhD students. It is now full admission straight away and we follow a cohort system of admission for the PhD by research students.” He added.

Prof. Julius Kikooma

RIMS is a version of how the Directorate of Graduate Training aims to handle the process of systematic tracking of every point of progress in the entire academic journey of graduate students.

The Directorate of Graduate Training has so far conducted the RIMS training at three Colleges namely; College of Health Sciences (CHS), College of Business and Management Sciences (COBAMS) and College of Natural Sciences (CONAS).

The critical stakeholders on the RIMS value chain include Heads of Departments, College Principals and Deputy Principals, Directors, School Deans, Supervisors as well as Graduate coordinators. “All the above are key actors and must be able to use RIMS in the graduate process, capturing all profiles of students and supervisors and should be able to use it appropriately.” He emphasized.

He said that RIMS will bring all stakeholders on the same page and will be able to adequately troubleshoot any hinderance to progress when course works are done, to dissertation and thesis completion. Makerere university target is to increase its graduate students’ enrollment from 19% to at least 30% in the next five years.

Prof. Bruce James Kirenga, Principal College of Health Sciences welcomed RIMS training saying that this kind of E- learning and supervision tracking is the way to handle graduate studies as it seems to reduce the turn around time for student- supervisor responses.

“Every activity in the graduate students learning journey is monitored swiftly. Whatever the students upload on to the system, supervisors get message pop-ups on their mails, review the works immediately and attach comments for the students to appreciate and manage appropriately.” He said.

Prof. Bruce James Kirenga

Prof. Kirenga added that the audit trail created under RIMS will provide good progressive academic reports and improve the journey to Doctoral studies.

“Heads of Departments are able to see all students in the department, any pending system approvals, observe completion rates and total progressive over view of each student and that the total overview of department performance will be clearly seen under RIMS.” He added.

Dr. Robert Kalyesubula – the Chair. Dept of Physiology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences said RIMS will improve the efficiency of supervisors while handling the graduate students.

“RIMS views all documents and proposals of students. We will be able to observe which supervisor takes long to respond, the number of days they have taken to respond and how long an issue has pended undone at a certain level.”

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