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
Makerere University commemorates 13 transformative years of partnership with Mastercard Foundation
On Friday, 27th February 2026, Makerere University proudly celebrated 13 years of a significant partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, a prestigious independent organisation headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Since its inception in 2013 with the launch of the Scholars Program-currently headed by Prof. Justine Namaalwa, this collaboration has grown significantly, expanding to include two additional initiatives: The E-learning Initiative-headed by Prof. Paul Muyinda Birevu and the Africa Climate Collaborative-headed by Prof. Gorretie Nabanoga. This long-term partnership underscores the shared commitment to fostering education, innovation, and sustainability in Uganda and across Africa.
The colourful event coincided with the 76th Graduation Ceremony, during which Makerere University honoured Ms. Reeta Roy, the Founding President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation, with an honorary Doctor of Laws.
In her commencement speech, Ms. Roy thanked Makerere University for considering a partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and for conferring upon her a prestigious honorary award.
“Mastercard Foundation is honoured to collaborate with this esteemed university, and I appreciate the recognition through this award. I am excited to be associated with Makerere University and look forward to actively embodying its values. Joining the broader community of alumni from this distinguished institution is a privilege, and I am eager to contribute to its legacy,” stated Ms. Roy.
During the reception in honour of Ms. Roy, the Chairperson of Makerere University Council, Dr. Lorna Magara, acknowledged the invaluable support from the Mastercard Foundation. She emphasised the profound impact of the Foundation’s various initiatives, particularly the scholarships for disadvantaged youth, which enable them to access higher education and opportunities that might have otherwise been beyond their reach.
“On behalf of the Makerere University Council and the broader University community, I extend our sincere gratitude to Mastercard Foundation for its commitment to collaborating with Makerere University in various endeavours, especially for providing scholarships to our underprivileged young people who would never have stepped inside a lecture room at the University.” Dr. Magara stated.
Dr. Magara, in a special way, thanked Ms. Roy for her transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to supporting young people in Africa, citing her efforts to ensure young people get their voices heard.
“As a university, our business is with young people. We are therefore committed to providing the environment and education that deliver meaningful pathways. We will provide an environment that ensures young people have a voice and agency to create meaningful change in society.” Dr. Magara pledged.
Dr. Magara further congratulated Ms. Roy on her honorary Doctor of Laws from Makerere University, noting that it is the university’s highest honour for individuals who have excelled in their careers.
“On behalf of the Makerere University community, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations on your honorary Doctor of Laws. This esteemed recognition represents the highest honour our institution can bestow on individuals who have demonstrated exceptional achievement and excellence across various facets of their career.” Dr. Magara remarked.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and the Coordinator for all Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University, expressed her appreciation for the thirteen-year collaboration between Makerere University and the Mastercard Foundation. She highlighted that the partnership had yielded significant, impactful results.
“In 2013, Makerere University partnered with the Mastercard Foundation to educate the next generation of transformative African leaders who can positively impact their lives, their communities, and the economies of Africa. The partnership has had a significant impact. I thank the University Management and the Foundation team for this visionary collaboration,” remarked Prof. Namaalwa.
Prof. Namaalwa articulated that the partnership with the Mastercard Foundation is primarily focused on empowering young people as agents of change for transformational leadership in Africa. She presented compelling statistics demonstrating the positive impact of the scholars’ program, highlighting the success of individuals who have completed their education and their subsequent professional experiences after university graduation.
“This partnership focuses on young people, aiming to create positive change in their lives. To date, the Scholars Program has graduated 974 alumni, with 48% securing formal employment, 18% starting their own businesses, 8% participating in internships, and 5% pursuing further education. Overall, 72% of Scholar alumni are actively engaged in employment or entrepreneurship,” Prof. Namaalwa stated.
The colourful event showcased a dynamic array of activities that highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit of Scholars and alumni from the Mastercard Foundation at Makerere University. Attendees enjoyed a mini-exhibition featuring innovative products from these ventures.
A video documentary illustrated the positive impact of the three Mastercard Foundation initiatives. The event also featured inspiring poetry recitations by Scholars and a lively atmosphere of music and dance, creating an engaging and memorable experience for all participants.
The high-level event was attended by senior University officials, led by the Chairperson of Council, Dr. Lorna Magara; the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe; the Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, Deputy, and the Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Finance and Administration Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta. Mr Yusuf Kiranda, the University Secretary; and Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, the Academic Registrar, Chancellor Emeritus-Prof. Ezra Suruma, former Chairperson of the Steering Committee of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program-Prof. Umar Kakumba, and the Deputy Executive Secretary, RUFORUM, and former Program Coordinator of the Scholars Program at Makerere University-Dr. Florence Nakayiwa, among many other officials graced the function.
The event was also graced by a high-level delegation from the Mastercard Foundation, led by Ms. Reeta Roy, the Founding President of the Foundation, and included the Mastercard Foundation Teams from the Country offices in Kigali, Nairobi, and Kampala; the Program partners; the Mentors, Scholars and alumni; as well as the Program staff of the three Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University.
At the end of the event, Makerere University honoured Ms. Reeta Roy with University memorabilia, including a pencil-drawn portrait, a pencil-drawn photo of the Ivory Tower, and other Ugandan crafts. Ms. Roy cut a graduation cake together with the 10 graduates of the 76th graduation ceremony from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Bernard Buteera is the Principal Public Relations Officer for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
The Board Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF), Dr. Margaret Blick Kigozi, has urged graduands in Health and Life Sciences to uphold professional ethics and serve humanity with diligence and compassion.
Her appeal came during the passing out of graduates from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-Security (CoVAB), the College of Health Sciences (CHS) and the School of Public Health (SPH) on Day Two of the 76th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University.
“Class of 2026, you are now part of the Makerere legacy. Wherever you go clinics, laboratories, farms, boardrooms, or classrooms, you carry this institution with you. Serve your patients with skill and compassion. Care for animals and communities responsibly. Question boldly and keep learning,” Dr Kigozi, said.
Delivering the commencement address, Dr. Kigozi lauded the graduates for their dedication to careers that directly impact lives and communities. She encouraged them to use their knowledge generously and exercise their power gently.
“Your education has trained you to ask better questions. Your humanity must guide the answers. Never forget that behind every chart, every case, every animal, every experiment, there is life. And life deserves care, patience, and dignity. Give every person you come in contact with care, patience and dignity,” Dr Kigozi, noted.
As the graduates embark on their professional journeys, Dr. Kigozi emphasized the importance of cultivating basic business acumen and financial literacy to ensure sustainability in their work.
“You do not need to become accountants but you must be able to read the essentials: understand simple financial statements, budgets and key metrics so you can judge whether a clinic, lab, or program is sustainable. You are encouraged to start your business. There are numerous investment opportunities in your areas of training. You can provide services to our people and create jobs,” Dr Kigozi, said.
She shared candidly how, when she first stepped into leadership, she realised she did not understand balance sheets or budgets well enough. So, she returned to Makerere for short courses to strengthen herself.
“A well-run Hospital, clinic or lab delivers better outcomes, attracts staff, and secures funding. Business savvy is not only about profit, it’s about sustainability and the freedom to serve ethically and effectively. Carry clinical skill with business sense so your work endures and grows,” Dr. Kigozi, noted.
Quoting renowned writer and producer Shonda Rhimes, creator of Grey’s Anatomy, who once reflected that succeeding in one area of life can sometimes mean falling short in another, Dr. Kigozi encouraged women graduates to intentionally balance professional ambition with family responsibilities.
“When one area thrives, another is often under strain. When Navio was graduating from school I had to manage the Presidential Investor Round Table on the same day as Executive Director Uganda Investment Authority. I chose my job and delegated his siblings to attend Navios graduation. I learnt from this. I choose family always after that thing you achieve once and keep forever,” Dr Kigozi, said.
In his speech, the Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor, informed the congregation that Makerere’s ranking on all university ranking platforms has remained stable, placing Makerere among the top 10 African universities and within the top 4.5% globally.
“In the Times Higher Education global ranking, Makerere University made a formidable jump from the 1200-1500 bracket to the 800-1000 bracket. This was no mean achievement and I congratulate all members of the Makerere Community on this stellar performance,” Prof Nawangwe, said.
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