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St. Francis Chaplain Rev. Onesimus Asiimwe & Wife Florence Mark Silver Jubilee

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Joy and praise filled the air as the Chaplain, St. Francis Chapel, Rev. Onesimus Asiimwe and his dear wife Florence, were joined by their children; Daudi, Marjorie and Ruth, parents, family and friends on Saturday, 22nd September 2018 at Makerere University to celebrate 25 years of Holy Matrimony.

Facing her husband with a charming smile, Florence said: “Thank you for loving me. I was a little timid village girl when we met. You have empowered me and contributed greatly to the wonderful Florence standing here. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for loving our children and taking care of them. I will love you pakalast.”

Bishop Henry Luke Orombi (3rd R) officiates at the Silver Jubiliee Anniversary service as Rev. Onesimus (4th R back to camera) and his wife Florence (2nd L) reaffirm their vows.

Officiating at the thanksgiving service held at St. Francis Chapel, the retired Archbishop of  the Church of Uganda, Bishop Henry Luke Orombi who witnessed Onesimus and Florence take their marriage vows in September 1993 congratulated the couple upon a successful and happy marriage.

“Congratulations! Thank you for being a role model to students and the community at large. Thank you for bringing up God fearing and disciplined children. May God continue to bless you!  I look forward to the Golden Jubilee,” he remarked.

The Asiimwes' Silver Jubilee Anniversary Invitation

The genuine speeches from parents, students, staff and friends confirmed that the couple is a living testimony of God’s goodness and faithfulness.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and his dear wife Susan, members of the University Management, Makerere University staff, students, and alumni turned up in big numbers to celebrate God’s goodness with the wonderful couple!

L-R: UCU Vice Chancellor-Rev. Can. Dr. John Senyonyi, his wife-Dr. Ruth Senyonyi, Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, his wife-Mrs. Susan Nawangwe and Dr. Aaron Mushengeyzi listen to proceedings at the celebration

“On behalf of Makerere University, we are very happy for you. You have been entrusted with leadership to guide most of our students and staff. The University Management will work with you to save the next generation from indiscipline, drugs and hooliganism. We will work together to build a Makerere University community filled with disciplined students. I wish you all the best. I wish you good health so that you continue to minister to our students, staff and the community at large,” said the Vice Chancellor.

Addressing the congregation at St. Francis Chapel, the overjoyed Mrs. Florence Asiimwe said they were celebrating God’s love and faithfulness.

“God has loved us. God has blessed us with great wealth in form of friends. Thank you for loving us. We were wed on 18th September 1993. The best thing that ever happened to me is meeting Onesimus. He brings a smile on my face. He is a blessing.”

The Asiimwes (Centre) joined by their children and friends cut the Silver Jubilee Anniversary Cake at a reception that follwed the service

The Chaplain, popularly known as Uncle O, remarked that the purpose of the thanks giving is to glorify God-to thank the Almighty God for thus far He has brought us.  “25 years have gone by since we started our journey in Holy Matrimony. God has been with us as sure as His word is through all the time.”

I pray to the Almighty God that the young people can be inspired to marry one wife and live with that one wife until death does them a part.

Recalling his teenage years as a very popular D.J. with Michael Jackson as his role model, Rev. Onesimus Asiimwe who accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour on 8th January 1988 thanked God for His saving grace, mercy, kindness, love and favour.

Senior Legal Officer-Canon Goddy Muhumuza (Right) and other guests at the reception

“I really bless the Lord for the transformation I have experienced. Florence and I, also thank God for blessing us with very loving people. We will keep praying for you that the Lord blesses you abundantly” added Rev. Asiimwe.

The Chaplain led the congregation into a befitting hymn of praise: “My hallelujah belongs to you. All of the Glory belongs to you. All of the Glory belongs to Jesus. You deserve it. You deserve it…”

Article by Public Relations Office
Photos courtesy Canon Goddy Muhumuza

Mark Wamai

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MURBS Reconstitutes Board of Trustees

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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.

The Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) announces the reconstitution of its Board of Trustees as of 1 April 2025. This follows the Trustee Elections that were held in December 2024 where vacant positions on the Board for Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA), Makerere University Administrative Staff Association (MASA), and National Union of Education Institutions (NUEI) were filled.

On 1st April 2025, the Board held a reorganisation meeting and elected Michael Kizito (PhD) as the Board Chairperson and CPA Francesca Angida Mugyema as the Board Secretary. In addition, the Board confirmed the membership of its standing Committees.

MURBS remains committed to strong governance and acting in the best interest of its members.

Mak Editor

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Mak and ACCA Career Workshop: Students tipped on success, professionalism and the future of accountancy

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On Tuesday 1st April 2025, over600 students from the College of Business and Management Sciences convened at Makerere University Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium to participate in the Career workshop that provided an invaluable platform for students to engage with industry leaders, gain insights into career prospects and professional development within the accounting and finance sectors.

Organized by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in Uganda in partnership with Makerere University Department of Accounting and Finance, School of Business under the College of Business and Management Sciences, the Career workshop also presented a platform to celebrate the academic achievements of the ten (10) Bachelor of Commerce students who graduated with First Class degrees-Honours Division during the Makerere University 75th Graduation ceremony held in January 2025.

Prior to the workshop, the Dean, School of Business, Dr. Godfrey Akileng in an interview with the College’s Communication Office, disclosed that celebrating the academic achievements of the students who obtained First Class degrees would inspire the current students to excel. In addition, Dr. Akileng noted that the presence of graduates who excelled at the Career workshop would lead to networking and peer mentorship possibilities with the current students.

During the Career workshop, speakers from Makerere University and ACCA Uganda re-affirmed their commitment to equipping graduates with the knowledge, skills and tools needed to excel in a rapidly evolving job market.

To understand the future of accountancy, students listened to presentations featuring the relevance of the accounting and finance in today’s job market by Dr. Eric Nzibonera; Insights on the collaboration with ACCA by Ms Charlotte Kukunda; Discussion of the global career opportunities in accounting and how ACCA supports professional development by Ms Jackie Mbabazi; and a keynote speech titled, An exploration of the skills and trends shaping the future of the accounting and finance industries in the 21st Century by Mr. Robert Busuulwa.

Ms Charlotte Kukunda – Country Manager, ACCA Uganda answering questions from students.

In his address, the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences, Prof. Edward Bbaale acknowledged the School of Business for proritising career talks and mentorship sessions for students.

“To the students, the Career workshop presents you with a chance to envision your career, and what you want to be, or what you want to study,” he said.

The Principal underscored the critical importance of bridging the gap between the academia and industry. He highlighted the instrumental role of partnerships, particularly the collaboration between Makerere University and ACCA in equipping students with globally competitive skills and certifications.

Prof. Bbaale emphasized that in the 21st century, this interface isn’t merely an option but “a necessity,” echoing the sentiments of both the keynote speaker, Mr. Robert Busuulwa, and ACCA partners.

The workshop was well attended, the venue was full house.

He advised students to visualise themselves as “global candidates” and pursue their careers with diligence and passion, taking the lessons from the workshop seriously and seeking continuous professional development. Prof. Bbaale stressed the significance of “building oneself, moulding oneself” through education, training, and experience, advocating for a focus on human capital development over immediate financial gain.

He emphasized the importance of “volunteering to work” in orderto gain experience and build a professional network. He reaffirmed the College’s commitment to strengthening collaborations to ensure graduates are academically competent and well-prepared to navigate the evolving job market.

Dr. Eric Nzibonera, the Head, Department of Accounting and Finance at the College of Business and Management Sciences highlighted the significance of career guidance events for University students. He explained that career workshops provide a valuable opportunity for students to “make a choice about a particular career,” a privilege he noted was not always available to students in the past. Dr. Nzibonera believed the workshop was a chance for students to learn from experienced professionals, guiding them towards informed decisions about their future careers.

Convinced that the workshop presented a golden opportunity to students to learn from experienced professionals, Dr. Nzibonera called upon students to leverage such moments to listen to the respective presenters, prepare to ask questions on professionalism, accreditation and career paths.

Focusing on the relevance of accounting and finance in today’s job market, Dr. Nzibonera reiterated that the accounting profession is very central in the day to day lives of individuals. “Inall realms of business, in whatever you do, you need some scheme or some kind of accounting that works,” he remarked. He noted that this underlines the universal applicability of financial literacy, whether pursuing careers directly related to the field.

Some of the Bachelor of Commerce students who graduated with First Class degrees-Honours Division during the Mak 75th Graduation ceremony.

The Country Manager, ACCA Uganda, Ms Charlotte Kukunda informed the students who turned up in big numbers, that the Career workshop was anchored in the programmes and activities that Makerere University and ACCA Uganda agreed to undertake when both entities signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in July 2022.

Ms Kukunda affirmed that ACCA Uganda values its strategic partnership with Makerere University, which has been mutually beneficial and fruitful. To expound this argument, Ms Kukunda highlighted the achievements which included: 660 students enrolled for ACCA programme, curriculum reviews of Makerere University accounting programmes, re-accreditation of the Bachelor of Commerce Accounting in June 2022, annual recognition of best accounting students since 2022, tutor capacity building workshops conducted at the College, lecturers granted access to the Education Hub, and hosting of three student career workshops annually.

She outlined the areas of collaboration with Makerere University as follows: accreditation of accounting programmes, co-development of teaching programmes that align and support the University edge resources and professional insights, employability through supporting students’ career and skills development, access to ACCA member networks to support Makerere University guest lectures/panels/conference speakers, and faculty skills development support in their teaching, learning and assessment.

The Country Manager said the Career workshop is planned, deliberate and intentional because ACCA classifies Makerere University students as strategic business leaders who are being nurtured, trained and prepared to drive the economy. She clarified that the ACCA programme is not limited to only students studying accounting.  According to Ms Kukunda, the ACCA programme embraces a broader range of disciplines and positions students for global competitiveness.

Ms. Kukunda encouraged students to explore the information resources on the ACCA website to tap into the opportunities that will enhance their financial acumen. She urged students to perceive themselves as global citizens. “When you perceive yourself as that, you are the right candidate for pursuing these globally accredited qualifications,” she said. She reinforced the value of connections and valuable networks with industry professionals, assuring students that their future is filled with potential and opportunities.

Feeding into Ms Kukunda’s presentation, Ms Jackie Mbabazi, the Business Relationship Manager at ACCA Uganda highlighted the significance of the ACCA qualification in shaping future leaders. She affirmed that ACCA is “a forward-thinking qualification” connected to vital sectors and stakeholders globally.

Ms. Mbabazi emphasized the global reach of the ACCA. “We are present in 180 countries. As you plan your professional journey, consider the ACCA qualification that is going to make you professional. Technology has enabled us to work beyond borders. Having globally recognized qualifications such as ACCA positions you to work globally,” she elaborated.

Ms Jackie Mbabazi

Ms. Mbabazi further pointed out the “forward-thinking qualification” attributes of ACCA. These include: Empowering individuals to be digitally relevant, creating ethical and trusted professionals, global recognition, professionals who add value, access to the most up to date syllabus on the market, and continuous learning for trainees as well as access to the global employability platform.

She also discussed the importance of adapting to technological advancements, stating, “You need to adapt and make sure technology is at the heart of what you are doing.”

Ms. Mbabazi articulated that ethics is at the centre of the ACCA programme. “ACCA programmes uphold ethics in building professionals. I urge you to avoid any form of fraud,” she emphasized.

The captivating presentations from the College of Business and Management Sciences and ACCA Uganda set the pace for the students to listen to a powerful keynote speech. Dr. Martin Bakundana introduced the keynote speaker, Mr. Robert Busuulwa, the founder and Managing Partner of Forvis Mazars in Uganda with over 30 years of tested and proven experience.

Mr. Robert Busuulwa’s keynote speech embodied words of wisdom and lived experiences that require an individual to be responsible for his or her destiny.

He guided the students that being successful is a personal choice and commitment. “If you want to be successful, dedicate time and study success,” he advised.

“When you plan to do something, focus and concentrate. Pursue your ambitions and career aspirations with determination and confidence,” he added.

 He castigated the popular phrase where individuals believe that it is the government responsible for their success and development. That statements calling upon the government to “assist” individuals should be discarded. “True liberation is about understanding who you are, your strengths and weakness, and what you can do as an individual to leverage your strength,” he stated.

He emphasized the importance of acquiring relevant skills, urging students to consider what they needed to demonstrate to future employers, particularly in light of evolving trends such as AI, robotics, and big data. “What are the skills that you are expected to demonstrate?” he asked, reflecting on the broadening scope of skills in the field.

Mr. Robert Busuulwa

Using lively examples, the keynote speaker informed the audience that he had to create time to be at Makerere University on 1st April 2025 to speak to the students. He reported that he manages a very tight schedule, but if you want and value something, you work towards it, and ensure it is a possibility.

“I am here because I created time and convinced myself that I should join you today. I love mentorship and interacting with people. I love being here. I have to return to society, what it has given me through qualifications, life and experiences. Through this career workshop, I am exactly doing that,” he said.

Mr. Busuulwa shared anecdotes from his academic journey and connecting with young minds poised for the future. He reinforced the notion that the landscape of accounting has changed dramatically, moving from traditional number-crunching to roles involving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors, financial crime, and IT consulting.

A student poses a question during a Q&A session.

Mr. Busuulwa mentioned that with the trends in the accounting profession, students and practitioners are presented with diverse career paths.

Mr. Busuulwa encouraged students to understand and appreciate their potential. “Every one of you here has the potential. I urge you to believe in your capabilities,” he said. He cautioned students and young people in general against limiting beliefs. Citing the power of thinking and its effects on the choices that individuals make, he stated, “If you think you can’t do it, you will not.”

He inspired students to actively shape their careers, stressing the need for adaptability and continuous learning. He appealed to the students to always empower their minds and souls with positive statements such as “Whatever it is, I am going to be successful,” he remarked.

The Career workshop moderated by Ms Sylvia Namujjuzi, Assistant Lecturer at the College of Business and Management Sciences assisted by Mr. Jonathan Basalirwa, a third year student, ended on a high note with presentation of awards of excellence to the best ten (10) First Class Honours Division graduates, and a networking session involving the respective speakers and students.

The Principal thanked the Dean, School of Business- Dr. Godfrey Akileng, Dr. Eric Nzibonera, Ms Sylvia Namujjuzi, Mr. John Ogema, the Makerere University Accountancy Bureau, and the team from ACCA Uganda for organizing the Career workshop 2025.

The discussions involving Makerere University staff namely Prof. Edward Bbaale, Dr. Eric Nzibonera, ACCA Uganda-Ms Charlotte Kukunda and Ms Jackie Mbabazi, and the Keynote Speaker Mr. Robert Busuulwa emphasized the necessity of bridging the gap between academic training and real-world skills.

Ritah Namisango
Ritah Namisango

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Re-Advert: Position of Second Deputy Vice Chancellor

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Mak Main Building

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:     DUTY STATION:  MAKERERE UNIVERSITY
4.      ROLE

The Second Deputy Vice-Chancellor will report to the Vice–Chancellor and shall:

a)     Assist the Vice Chancellor in performance of his or her functions and in that regard shall oversee the finances and administration of the University;

b)     Be responsible for the Planning and Development of the University and,

c)      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

a)     Provide leadership in Strategic planning and governance, leadership and administrative experience, Human resource and performance Management, Stakeholder engagement and collaboration.

b)     Provide leadership in preparation and implementation of the University’s recurrent and capital budgets.

c)      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.

d)     Oversee income and expenditure of all income generating units of the University.

e)     Coordinate the production of the University-wide Financial Reports by Colleges and Units.

f)      Management of human resources in the University.

g)     Oversee the management of University Estates and Assets.

7. CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION

a)     Hold a PhD or any other academic doctorate.

b)     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.

c)      Be a Ugandan citizen within the age bracket of 40 to 65 years at the time of application.

7.1 Academic Qualifications

a)     Earned a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate should be acceptable by Senate.

b)     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.

c)      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

a)     Experience in leading large administrative teams at the level of dean or higher, demonstrating efficiency and productivity.

b)     Proven record in developing and executing strategic plans, aligning financial and administrative objectives with institutional goals.

c)      Evidence of developing and implementing financial policies that have improved financial efficiency, transparency, and risk management.

d)     Evidence of implementing organisational restructuring or process improvements to ensure operational efficiency.

e)     Ability to develop and implement institutional policies, ensuring compliance with national higher education and financial regulations.

7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience

a)     Minimum 5 years of senior academic leadership in a recognized institution comparable with that of Makerere University, as accepted by Senate.

b)     Demonstrated    experience    in    managing    budgets    exceeding    UGX 500,000,000=, ensuring financial sustainability and accountability.

c)     Proven ability to mobilize resources, secure grants, and attract external funding to support institutional growth.

d)     Experience in conducting financial forecasting, cost control measures, and investment strategies to optimize institutional resources.

e)     Track record of leading financial audits and compliance assessments in alignment with national and international financial regulations.

f)      Experience in handling procurement, asset management, and infrastructure development, ensuring transparency and value for money.

7.4    Human Resource and Performance Management

a)    Track record of leading workforce planning, recruitment, and talent development strategies, ensuring a high-performance institutional culture.

b)     Experience in implementing performance-based appraisal systems, leading to improved staff efficiency and accountability.

c)      Proven ability to foster industrial harmony, resolving labour disputes and improving employer-employee relations.

7.5    Infrastructure Development and Resource Optimization

a)     Experience in overseeing capital development projects, ensuring timely delivery and cost efficiency.

b)     Track record of overseeing the maintenance and expansion of university facilities, enhancing institutional infrastructure.

c) Proven ability to negotiate and manage contracts for outsourced services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality standards.

7.6 Digital Transformation and ICT Integration

a) Experience in integrating ICT solutions in financial and administrative operations, improving service delivery and efficiency.

b) Evidence steering the automation of financial, procurement, and HR systems, reducing paperwork and improving real-time decision making.

c) Proven ability to implement cybersecurity measures that safeguard institutional financial and administrative data.

7.7 Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

a) Demonstrated experience in building partnerships with government agencies, donors, private sector investors, and international organizations to enhance institutional funding.

b) Proven ability to engage faculty, students, and staff in financial decision-making, ensuring transparency and inclusivity.

c) Experience in negotiating contracts, partnerships, and collaborations that have led to financial and administrative growth.

7.8 Personal Attributes

a) High level of integrity, transparency, and ethical leadership, with a record of financial prudence.

b) Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, backed by evidence of successfully managing complex financial and administrative challenges.

c) Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement.

d) 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:

a) A signed letter of application;

b) A vision statement;

c) Curriculum Vitae with contact details signed and dated by the applicant;

d) Copies of required minimum number of publications;

e) Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates;

f) Three (3) letters of recommendation;

g) 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;

h) A copy of the applicant’s National Identity Card or passport;

i) A copy of the last clearance from the Inspector General of Government or other equivalent national body;

j) 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 Monday 14th April, 2025;

k) 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.

(a) Hardcopy applications: Both confidential letters and sealed applications marked

“CONFIDENTIAL: POSITION OF SECOND DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLOR”

should be addressed to:

SECRETARY SEARCH COMMITTEE
THE ACADEMIC REGISTRAR
MAKERERE UNIVERSITY
6TH Floor, ROOM 602, SENATE BUILDING
P. O. BOX 7062, KAMPALA, UGANDA

(b) Electronic media (e-mail) applications should have all the above documents scanned and emailed to search.dvcfa[at]mak.ac.ug by 5.00 pm East African Standard Time on Monday 14th April, 2025.

Please note that:

(a) Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date and time

will not be considered.

(b) Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.

For more Information and inquiries:
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. Buyinza Mukadasi (PhD)
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

Mak Editor

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