General
Dr. Umar Kakumba Receives Office of First Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)
The outgoing First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Dr. Ernest Okello Ogwang officially handed over office to his successor Dr. Umar Kakumba on Friday, 30th November 2018. The brief ceremony was presided over by the Vice Chairperson of the University Council, Hon. Irene Ovonji-Odida.
The Director Human Resources, Mr. Andrew Abunyang congratulated the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA), Dr. Umar Kakumba and the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration (DVCFA), Prof. William Bazeyo upon their respective successful appointments. He also thanked Hon. Ovonji-Odida for representing the Chairperson of the University Council, Eng. Dr. Charles Wana-Etyem at the ceremony.
Delivering the handover remarks, a jovial Dr. Ernest Okello Ogwang thanked Hon. Ovonji-Odida, Members of Management and University staff present for finding valuable time to witness the smooth transition of office.
“I entered office officially on 8th December 2013. I have learnt a lot of things that have enriched my decision making abilities. I have also noted that so many achievements have been realised at Makerere University over the last five years. Some challenges still remain, but we thank God that we are here to take stock of what has been done so far,” he remarked.
Dr. Okello Ogwang’s parting advice to his friend and successor; Dr. Umar Kakumba was to lobby Government to amend the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act so as to streamline the reporting structures for all offices that the DVCAA oversees. He also urged Dr. Kakumba to use his business skills to help improve University revenue collections.
The outgoing DVCAA thanked the University Council, Management, Senate as well as his office staff for all the support rendered to him during his tenure. He urged the Leadership and his former staff to render the same level of support to Dr. Umar Kakumba and shared his readiness to continue supporting his friend and successor.
“As a businessman, Dr. Kakumba is starting on a firmer footing than I did and if you support him well, he might yield a lot more, and I am sure Allah will pour his blessings upon him.”
Dr. Okello Ogwang used the same opportunity to reiterate his unconditional love for Makerere University, his alma mater when he said, “I am still a Makererean. Makerere gave me two degrees, a job, and the opportunity to serve this institution. My loyalty is to Makerere University.”
In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Umar Kakumba expressed great pleasure and humility to be addressing the audience as DVCAA for the next five years, acknowledging that such moments did not come to all individuals. “I thank and appreciate the Almighty God for rendering us the light of opportunity to see this occasion,” he added.
He thanked Hon. Ovonji-Odida for gracing the handover ceremony as well as his colleagues in the University Council and Senate for the guidance and encouragement throughout the race for office.
“If the University Senate had not entrusted me with the mandate to represent them in the University Council, I doubt that I would be in this position today. I therefore thank the University Senate where I have served for eight years and the College of Business and Management Sciences for entrusting me with the responsibility to represent them,” said Dr. Kakumba.
He went on to stress that his service was not to self but to Makerere University which is bigger than each of us as individuals. “All of us are here to make a contribution, to serve both God and humanity and not to become adversarial.”
“The only thing we can walk away with from this institution is our legacies. My commitment to the position of Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) is to make a contribution and leave a legacy,” added Dr. Kakumba.
He thanked his predecessor Dr. Okello Ogwang for spotting his leadership potential and entrusting him with various responsibilities in line with the mandate of the office of the DVCAA.
In his remarks, the DVCFA Prof. William Bazeyo thanked Dr. Okello Ogwang for his service to Makerere University, noting that his contribution had left the institution in a better place than it was five years ago.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the DVCFA commended Dr. Okello Ogwang for his tenacity and willingness to find solutions to challenges.
“The Vice Chancellor shared that Dr. Okello Ogwang is one of the most resilient people that he has worked with who could always be counted on to discuss solutions to pressing challenges. I pray that you continue to give us this motion even after your term of office.”
Prof. Bazeyo welcomed the incoming DVCAA, noting that he joins the University Administration at a time when he is needed to make a personal contribution. “It is only through teamwork and accepting that we want to be a contribution to this institution that we will succeed.”
The DVCFA further thanked the University Council for supporting the DVCAA’s office, noting that this had resulted in the quick issuance of transcripts as well as automated generation of student examination permits. He also thanked the Academic Registrar, Mr. Alfred Namoah Masikye for supporting the DVCAA’s office to attain several milestones during Dr. Okello Ogwang’s tenure.
The Vice Chairperson of Council congratulated Dr. Okello Ogwang upon successfully completing his term and conveyed her respect for his leadership style.
“I have learnt from Dr. Okello Ogwang that humility and respect for others despite their level are very important values. He has the ability to see the good in others and has respect for diversity,” shared Hon. Ovonji-Odida.
The Vice Chairperson was happy to share about the growing diversity in the composition of Makerere’s leadership but noted that she would love to see more women come into Management positions. “Diversity matters and is very important in determining how you are perceived by the community and donors out there. How you cater for persons with disabilities in your infrastructure for example is a very important aspect.”
Addressing the incoming DVCAA, the Vice Chairperson congratulated Dr. Umar Kakumba upon his appointment and encouraged him to reflect upon Makerere’s role in society.
“This is a lovely office that allows you to see both the developed and shanty parts of our city, including the greenery. As you sit here, I hope that you will reflect on the connection between Makerere University and Uganda and learn from it,” she advised.
Hon. Ovonji-Odida also prayed that both Deputy Vice Chancellors would work hard to change the challenging aspects of Makerere’s culture and establish cultures that strive for excellence.
“As beneficiaries from people who have seen your potential, I hope that you can see the importance of involving the young in leadership through institutional mentorship,” she added.
The Vice Chairperson fully endorsed Dr. Okello Ogwang’s advice on the need to revise the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act but noted that all staff in their individual capacities have a contribution to make to Makerere University. She therefore called upon all witnesses of the handover ceremony to contribute to the future direction of Makerere by actively taking part in ongoing efforts to draft the new 10-year strategic plan.
“To Dr. Umar Kakumba, you have the full support of the University Council because Management’s success is Council’s success. We want to see you succeed so please, use it (your success) for institutional glory,” concluded Hon. Ovonji-Odida.
The DVCAA handover ceremony was additionally witnessed by the Director Research and Graduate Training (DRGT)-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Director Internal Audit (IA)-Mr. Walter Yorac Nono, Director Gender Mainstreaming (GMD)-Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine as well as staff from the Finance Department, Internal Audit, Vice Chancellor’s Office, DVCAA’s Office, Directorate of Legal Affairs (DLA) and the Public Relations Office.
Article by Public Relations Office
General
NCBA Commits UGX 1.45 Billion to Makerere Marathon, Pledges Five-Year Support for Inclusive Education
By Eve Nakyanzi and Atwenda Nancy
Makerere University has officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the platinum sponsor for the 2025 Makerere University Marathon (#MakRun2025), marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable student support. The partnership was formally announced during a colourful event held at the university, attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund, and NCBA Bank Uganda CEO, Mr. Mark Muyobo.
NCBA Bank Uganda’s UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship over the next five years is the largest corporate contribution to the Makerere Marathon to date. It underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting quality education, community development, and equity. Mr. Muyobo said that, “We are driven by the desire to leave every community better than we found it”. He added that the goal is to empower disadvantaged students to live without limitations, describing this initiative as a bold stride toward establishing a world-class international marathon.
“This is more than just a sponsorship, it is a strategic partnership built on shared values,” Dr. Kigozi remarked. “With this support, we are positioned to establish a fully equipped Disability Support Unit and a sustainable pool of funds to assist economically disadvantaged students.”
The marathon, slated under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future,” seeks to unify students, alumni, corporate entities, and professional athletes in pursuit of a common cause. At its core, the MakRun2025 promotes active lifestyles, social inclusion, and a sense of communal responsibility.
“It’s not just a race,” Prof. Nawangwe emphasized. “It is a movement to break barriers, change lives, and build a resilient, inclusive university.”
The marathon’s broader impact includes fundraising for students living with disabilities and those facing financial hardship, contributing directly to the university’s Endowment Fund.
A major highlight of the event is the introduction of a full 42.2-kilometer marathon—bringing international standards to the annual run. Organizers have promised a professional, accredited experience with traffic-free routes and ample support for runners.
“This edition will elevate the MakRun into a world-class event,” said Mr. Muyobo. “We are proud to support Makerere University in realizing its dream of a globally recognized marathon that reflects Uganda’s commitment to education and inclusivity.”
Beyond the race itself, the event will feature a vibrant line-up of activities, including music, drama, and games for all age groups. It is designed to foster a festival-like atmosphere that welcomes every member of the community.
Organizers and university leaders have extended an open invitation to students, staff, alumni, corporate partners, and Kampala residents to participate, cheer, or donate to the cause.
“Every step taken is a step towards hope for a student,” Dr. Kigozi stated. “Together, we are building a Makerere that cares, includes, and uplifts.”
The partnership is expected to significantly enhance the university’s ability to support underprivileged students and improve campus infrastructure for students with disabilities. It also sets the tone for future collaborations that align with the values of compassion, excellence, and innovation. The fifth edition of the MakRun is scheduled to take place on August 17th, 2025.
The Writers are Interns in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University
Makerere University has today Wednesday, 9th June 2025 officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon. Formerly known as a fun run, the initiative was rebranded on 27th March 2025 during the launch of its Fifth Edition. This year’s event, #MakRun2025, is slated for 17th August 2025 under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future”.
Addressing the Media at a press conference this afternoon, the MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi remarked, “We are deeply honoured and excited to unveil NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of #MakRun2025, with a landmark commitment of UGX 1.45 billion over the next five years.”
Dr. Kigozi further described the unveiling as “a strategic partnership built on shared values and a common vision for inclusive education and sustainable impact,” adding that it would “fast-track the establishment of a fully equipped Disability Support Unit for students living with disabilities, and to build a sustainable pool of funds to support Economically Disadvantaged Students.”
Appreciating the generous sponsorship, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe acknowledged that NCBA Bank had not only made history as the biggest corporate sponsor of #MakRun to date but also aligned with Makerere’s vision to improve the quality of student life. “This is a powerful gesture of trust in our mission and a demonstration of deep corporate citizenship”, he added.
Prof. Nawangwe further thanked NCBA for recognizing that an investment in Makerere University is an indirect investment in the future of Uganda. “The Makerere Marathon is not just a race. It is a movement to establish a fully-fledged Disability Support Unit for students living with various forms of disabilities, and to build a sustainable fund for Economically Disadvantaged Students.”
The Vice Chancellor therefore rallied staff, students, alumni, partners and friends of Makerere to match NCBA’s generous support with vigour and commitment, so as to make #MakRun2025 the most impactful edition since its founding.
The Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mark Muyobo thanked Makerere University for giving NCBA Bank Uganda the opportunity to play its part in “shaping Uganda’s future one student, one community, one strength at a time,” adding that #MakRun is a symbol of hope for students living with disabilities as it speaks to Makerere’s core values of inclusion, equity, and excellence.
On a rhythmical note, Mr. Muyobo remarked that the #MakRun2025 theme is “not just about finishing lines, it is about opening doors; giving opportunities to those who are disabled. It is about promoting active lifestyle.”
#MakRun2025 will for the first time feature a full 42.2km marathon race with international accreditation and professional timing along a dedicated traffic-free route.
“These are not just upgrades, these are bold steps towards building a world-class international marathon right here in Kampala. We are proud to be the wings at your back as you take this leap because when Makerere University, the beacon of higher learning in Uganda grows stronger, the ripple effects are felt across the region and across the continent” Mr. Muyobo affirmed.
To officially seal the deal, a Memorandum of Understanding was officially signed between Makerere University and NCBA Bank Uganda, and thereafter, a dummy cheque of UGX 1.45 billion was presented to Dr. Maggie Kigozi as the Vice Chancellor, Members of Management and NCBA staff witnessed.
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