On Thursday 28th June 2018, the Outgoing University Bursar, Mr. Augustine Tamale handed over office to the Acting University Bursar, Ms. Deborah Nalule. 

Ms Deborah Nalule, the Manager-Expenditure and Reporting in the Finance Department will manage the office until a substantive University Bursar assumes office.

 In a letter dated 20th April 2018, Mr. Tamale notified the Director, Human Resources that he would resign from the University service on Friday 29th June 2018. At its 565th meeting held on 23rd May 2018, the Makerere University Appointments Board accepted Mr. Tamale’s resignation.

In a cordial interaction with the Central Management team in May 2018, Mr. Tamale revealed that he had secured a job in another company that was offering a very competitive package in terms of remuneration and other benefits.

During his tenure, Mr. Tamale ensured transparency and efficiency of financial transactions in the University. Determined to improve financial reporting in the University, Mr. Tamale introduced proper ways of maintaining all financial records in the Department. He also initiated an effective accounting system for the University.

“This is a tough office but you have done a great job. Thank for being a man of your word, with a respected reputation that you have protected for long. You are so committed to your wok and that kind of dedication needs to be appreciated. You have used the best of your time to ensure that the Finance Department becomes a better Unit. Once a Makererean, stay a Makererean, wherever you go ensure that you market Makerere University. Do things that will build and raise the University to greater heights,” said Mr Charles Barugahare, the University Secretary.

In the same spirit, the Director of Human Resources, Mr. Andrew Abunyang commended Mr. Tamale for being a very open, cooperative and hard working colleague.

During the handover ceremony, Mr. Tamale said: “It is an afternoon of mixed feelings. There is joy that I am moving to another place, but I had bonded with so many people here whom I miss dearly. Makerere University has lifted my profile so high-the University Bursar managing billions and billions. It was worthwhile being here. I will continue to give support to the team in the Finance Department when called upon.”

Mr. Tamale said that he was happy to hand over office knowing that the Debt burden of the University had reduced from UGX.130billion to UGX 60billion. He also urged the University Management to prioritise systems accounting in the Finance Department. “We have put in place a number of systems, and there is an urgent need to recruit technical people to handle systems accounting,” he stated.

Mr. Tamale applauded the staff in the Finance Department for their cooperation and team work when he said:  “People that I found in the University helped me a lot. My success has been realised due to teamwork. Very many people here played a big role in ensuring that I deliver.  I appreciate the opportunity granted to me to serve this University. My family has grown bigger to include the Makerere University community.” 

Witnessing the handover, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Dr. Eria Hisali who is also the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences, thanked Mr. Tamale for his dedicated service to Makerere University. 

“We appreciate your contribution to Makerere University. You have put in place very good financial systems. Transparency has been enhanced in the accounting system. Information can now be easily shared among units. We appreciate this solid contribution and thank you for having been a remarkable person who is committed to your work. We shall always remember you,” Dr. Hisali said.

Dr. Hisali welcomed the incoming Acting University Bursar, Ms Nalule and thanked her for accepting to Act until a substantive University Bursar assumes office. On behalf of Management, Dr Hisali pledged to support Ms Nalule during her period of service. 

Ms Nalule thanked Mr. Tamale for his invaluable contribution to Makerere University, and in particular for uplifting the financial functions in the University. “We have enjoyed the cordial working relationship. Thank you so much for driving us this far and for the mantle that you have left to us,” she said. 

The following officers also witnessed the handover:  Mr. Walter Yorac Nono-Director Internal Audit; Mr. Hudson Musoke-representing the Director Legal Affairs, Ms Ritah Namisango-Senior Public Relations Officer, Mr. Peter Mubiru and Mr. Majid Sserunjogi from the Finance Department. 

Article by: Mak Public Relations Office