The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites applications from Ugandan, East African and international applicants for the undergraduate under the private sponsorship scheme for the 2026/2027 Academic Year.

Each applicant should:

EITHER

Hold at least a Second Class/Credit (or equivalent classification) Diploma or otherwise as specified in the Diploma Holders’ requirements from a recognised chartered institution, relevant to the programme applied for. Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates (not photocopies of certified copies) from the awarding institutions and one passport size photograph must be submitted to Office 315 level three (3) Senate Building after applying online. 

OR

Be a Graduate from a RECOGNISED CHARTERED UNIVERSITY. Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates (not photocopies of certified copies) from the awarding Institutions and one Passport size photography MUST be submitted to Office 315, Level three (3) Senate Building after applying online.

N.B. Applicants will be responsible for verification of their academic documents from the awarding Institutions after admission.

 Other relevant information can be obtained from UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS OFFICE, LEVEL 3, SENATE BUILDING OR CAN BE found on the University Website. 

Diploma Holder applicants who hold class three (3) diploma certificates or Pass Diplomas are not eligible for admission and therefore should not apply, except where stated in the Diploma Holders requirements. 

HOW TO APPLY                                                    

Applications shall be submitted online using the ACMIS system for all applicants. Diploma/degree holders and internationals will have to submit certified copies of their transcripts and certificates and a passport size photograph to Office 315, Level 3, Senate Building after submitting the application online and payment of application fees.                                                    

OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED FROM UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS OFFICE, LEVEL 3, SENATE BUILDING, MAKERERE UNIVERSITY WITH EFFECT FROM 5th JANUARY, 2026.  

A NON-REFUNDABLE APPLICATION FEE OF SHS.55,000/= FOR UGANDAN AND EAST AFRICAN APPLICANTS OR $76.5 OR EQUIVALENT FOR INTERNATIONALS, (UGX.286,250=) PLUS BANK CHARGEs SHOULD BE PAID IN ANY OF THE BANKS USED BY UGANDA REVENUE AUTHORITY (URA)                                           

CANDIDATES WHO HOLD GRADES X, Y, Z, 7 AND 9 OF ‘O’LEVEL RESULTS SHOULD NOT APPLY BECAUSE THEY ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR ADMISSION.     

ONLINE APPLICATION PORTAL USER GUIDE                                                

Applicants should access the Institution’s Admissions URL https://apply.mak.ac.ug

• Signup using full name, e-mail and Mobile Number.  Please note that your name must be similar to the one on your supporting academic documents for your application to be considered valid.  If you changed your names please go to Senate Building Office 611 with a deed poll and gazette supporting the name change.                                       
• A password will be sent to both your e-mail and mobile number.                                         
• The system will prompt you to change the password to the one you can easily remember.             
• To fill a form (all form sections must be filled)the applicant clicks on the APPLY NOW button displayed on the running scheme.
• Obtain a pay reference nunber(PRN)  after submitting the application.
• Make a payment at any of the banks used by Uganda Revenue Authority.                                        

MOBILE MONEY PAYMENT STEPS:                                                 

The closing date for receiving applications was extended to Friday 27^th February, 2026.

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:

1. Assist the Vice Chancellor in performance of his or her functions and in that regard shall oversee the finances and administration of the University;
2. Be responsible for the Planning and Development of the University and,
3. 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

1. Provide leadership in Strategic planning and governance, leadership and administrative experience, Human resource and performance Management, Stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
2. Provide leadership in preparation and implementation of the University’s recurrent and capital budgets.
3. 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.
4. Oversee income and expenditure of all income generating units of the University.
5. Coordinate the production of the University-wide Financial Reports by Colleges and Units.
6. Management of human resources in the University.
7. Oversee the management of University Estates and Assets.

7.  CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION

1. Hold a PhD or any other academic doctorate.
2. 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.
3. Be a Ugandan citizen within the age bracket of 40 to 65 years at the time of application.

7.1 Academic Qualifications

1. Earned a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate should be acceptable by Senate.
2. 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.
3. 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

1. Experience in leading large administrative teams at the level of dean or higher, demonstrating efficiency and productivity.
2. Proven record in developing and executing strategic plans, aligning financial and administrative objectives with institutional goals.
3. Evidence of developing and implementing financial policies that have improved financial efficiency, transparency, and risk management.
4. Evidence of implementing organisational restructuring or process improvements to ensure operational efficiency.
5. Ability to develop and implement institutional policies, ensuring compliance with national higher education and financial regulations.

7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience

1. Minimum 5 years of senior academic leadership in a recognized institution comparable with that of Makerere University, as accepted by Senate.
2. Demonstrated experience in managing budgets exceeding UGX 500,000,000=, ensuring financial sustainability and accountability.
3. Proven ability to mobilize resources, secure grants, and attract external funding to support institutional growth.
4. Experience in conducting financial forecasting, cost control measures, and investment strategies to optimize institutional resources.
5. Track record of leading financial audits and compliance assessments in alignment with national and international financial regulations.
6. 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.

• Experience in implementing performance-based appraisal systems, leading to improved staff efficiency and accountability.
• Proven ability to foster industrial harmony, resolving labour disputes and improving employer-employee relations.

7.5        Infrastructure Development and Resource Optimization

1. Experience in overseeing capital development projects, ensuring timely delivery and cost efficiency.
2. Track record of overseeing the maintenance and expansion of university facilities, enhancing institutional infrastructure.
3. Proven ability to negotiate and manage contracts for outsourced services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality standards.

7.6          Digital Transformation and ICT Integration

1. Experience in integrating ICT solutions in financial and administrative operations, improving service delivery and efficiency.
2. Evidence steering the automation of financial, procurement, and HR systems, reducing paperwork and improving real-time decision making.
3. Proven ability to implement cybersecurity measures that safeguard institutional financial and administrative data.

7.7          Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

1. Demonstrated experience in building partnerships with government agencies, donors, private sector investors, and international organizations to enhance institutional funding.
2. Proven ability to engage faculty, students, and staff in financial decision-making, ensuring transparency and inclusivity.
3. Experience in negotiating contracts, partnerships, and collaborations that have led to financial and administrative growth.

7.8        Personal Attributes

1. High level of integrity, transparency, and ethical leadership, with a record of financial prudence.
2. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, backed by evidence of successfully managing complex financial and administrative challenges.
3. Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement.
4. 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:

1. A signed letter of application;
2. A vision statement;
3. Curriculum Vitae with contact details signed and dated by the applicant;
4. Copies of required minimum number of publications;
5. Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates;
6. Three (3) letters of recommendation;
7. 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;
8.  A copy of the applicant’s National Identity Card or passport;
9. A copy of the last clearance from the Inspector General of Government or other equivalent national body;
10. 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 Tuesday 13^th January, 2026;
11. 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.

• Hardcopy applications: Both confidential letters and sealed applications marked “CONFIDENTIAL: POSITION OF SECOND DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLOR” should be addressed to:

• Electronic media (e-mail) applications should have all the above documents scanned and emailed to search.dvcfa@mak.ac.ug by 5.00 pm East African Standard Time on Tuesday 13^th January, 2026.

Please note that:

• Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered.

• Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.

For more Information and inquiries:  Visit our website https://mak.ac.ug/search-for-dvcs OR 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

_{By Eric Tumwesigye and Cynthia Ayaa Komakec}

Introduction

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of the most pervasive and entrenched human rights violations in Uganda. Within institutions of higher learning—spaces intended to cultivate intellectual rigor, ethical leadership, and civic responsibility—GBV persists in both visible and covert forms, often sustained by silence, stigma, and institutional inertia. As Uganda’s oldest and most influential public university, Makerere University bears a dual responsibility: to respond decisively to these challenges and to model transformative, ethical leadership for the nation.

It is within this context that the Strides for Change walk, led by 16 male changemakers during the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, emerges as a strategic and symbolic intervention. The initiative addresses both digital and offline forms of violence against women and girls and aligns with the 2025 global theme, UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls. It reflects a growing recognition that gendered harm increasingly transcends physical boundaries, manifesting in digital spaces in ways that exacerbate the vulnerabilities of female students, staff, and young women across Uganda.

Linking Digital Violence with Physical and Psychological Harm

As Uganda’s digital ecosystem continues to expand, emergent forms of violence have surfaced that intersect with, reinforce, and intensify established patterns of gender-based violence (GBV). Research undertaken by the Makerere University Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), in collaboration with the Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET), documents the breadth and complexity of online GBV practices prevalent within the Ugandan context. Their study identifies a wide spectrum of digitally mediated abuses, including the non-consensual dissemination of intimate images (commonly referred to as revenge pornography), online sexual harassment, cyberbullying, stalking, hacking, doxing, digital surveillance, sexist and degrading commentary, trolling, impersonation, identity theft, and threats circulated through social media platforms (IGDS and WOUGNET, 2021, p. 18).

Crucially, these manifestations of digital violence are not confined to virtual environments. Rather, they produce tangible and often severe consequences that extend into survivors’ offline lives. Empirical evidence indicates that women are disproportionately targeted by online GBV compared to men, reflecting entrenched gendered power asymmetries that are reproduced and amplified within digital spaces (IGDS and WOUGWET, 2021, p. 34). Survivours frequently experience profound psychological harm, including heightened anxiety, depression, chronic fear, and diminished self-esteem (Monteagudo Martinez et al, 2020). In response to persistent victimisation, many withdraw from social, academic, and professional spheres as a protective strategy, while others face significant economic repercussions, such as job loss or reduced income, arising from stigma, reputational damage, and trauma.

Within university settings, the consequences of digital violence may escalate further, in some instances culminating in threats of, or exposure to, physical harm (Pew Research Center, 2014). Oksanen et al. (2022) demonstrate that online hostility and harassment within academic environments are associated with acute psychological distress and deteriorating social relations at work. As the authors observe, “victims experienced higher psychological distress and lower perceived social support at work—indicative of social isolation and disengagement in academic roles” (Oksanen et al., 2022, pp. 541–567). Such findings underscore the manner in which sustained online harassment undermines not only individual well-being but also academic participation and institutional belonging.

Similarly, Cassidy, Faucher, and Jackson’s (2017) examination of cyberbullying in higher education institutions highlights the pervasive sense of insecurity engendered by digitally mediated abuse. Their study reports that “victims reported stress, anxiety, and threats to safety, reinforcing that harassment in academic settings is not merely emotional but also threatens well-being” (Cassidy, et al, 2017, p. 888). These dynamics contribute to academic disengagement, social isolation, and long-term reputational damage, with potentially enduring implications for future employment and career trajectories.  Taken together, this body of evidence illustrates that digital violence functions as an extension of physical and emotional abuse, forming part of a broader continuum of harm. By eroding women’s psychological health, social participation, academic engagement, and professional prospects, online GBV undermines women’s safety, dignity, and capacity to participate fully in public and academic life. Addressing digital violence, therefore, is not merely a matter of regulating online conduct but a critical component of broader efforts to combat gender-based violence in all its interconnected forms.

The Role of Male Changemakers: Transforming Culture and Accountability

The Strides for Change campaign strategically positions men as visible allies in gender equality advocacy—not to displace women’s lived experiences, but to confront and dismantle patriarchal norms from within. Male changemakers play a pivotal role in advancing cultural transformation and accountability through three interrelated contributions.

First, they reframe gender-based violence (GBV) as a structural and societal concern rather than a “women’s issue,” underscoring its profound implications for human rights, social justice, and national development. This perspective is exemplified by Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentogo, one of the 16 male changemakers commemorated during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Drawing on his experience as an active social media user, he highlights the increasing prevalence of body shaming, slut shaming, and other forms of online abuse that silence girls and women and undermine their meaningful digital participation. He calls on all social media users to recognise, challenge, and reject such harmful language, emphasising that the creation of safe and inclusive online spaces for women is a shared societal responsibility.

Second, male changemakers model positive and accountable masculinities by publicly rejecting norms that equate masculinity with dominance, entitlement, or complicity in abuse. Ugandan musician and producer Navio articulates this stance by acknowledging the cultural power of artistic expression, stating that his lyrics will not perpetuate harm and that consent represents “the rhythm of respect”—not only in creative spaces, but in everyday life. Such public commitments challenge harmful gender norms while offering alternative, ethical frameworks for masculine identity.

Third, male changemakers broaden the reach and effectiveness of advocacy by engaging other men in critical dialogue, often within spaces that women may be unable to access safely or strategically. This engagement is strengthened through intellectual and academic platforms, including presentations at the Makerere University Men’s Forum, where evolving scholarship on masculinity is examined and translated into practical strategies for social transformation. Through this combination of peer engagement, cultural influence, and scholarly reflection, male changemakers contribute meaningfully to the collective effort to prevent GBV and advance gender justice.

Institutional Commitments to Gender Equality and the Elimination of Sexual Harassment

Through the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD), Makerere University continues to demonstrate institutional leadership in advancing gender equality and addressing sexual harassment. The launch of the Strides for Change campaign reaffirmed the University’s commitment to the following priority areas:

Strengthening Reporting and Accountability Mechanisms

Makerere University has established confidential, survivour-centred reporting and redress systems to ensure the timely investigation and adjudication of GBV cases. These mechanisms enforce stringent sanctions, including disciplinary action, against individuals who engage in sexual exploitation, harassment, or the solicitation of sexual favours in exchange for academic or professional advancement. The GMD supports the continuous operationalisation and improvement of these accountability frameworks.

Expanding Psychosocial and Legal Support for Survivours

The University is committed to enhancing access to high-quality psychosocial care, legal aid, and referral services for survivours of GBV. The GMD coordinates capacity-building initiatives for service providers and strengthens partnerships with relevant institutions to ensure comprehensive and survivours-centred support.

Institutionalising Male Allyship and Transformative Engagement

Makerere University is advancing a structured approach to male allyship by formalising male and female champion networks that collaborate in dialogue, advocacy, and behavioural change initiatives. This includes integrating men into gender training programmes and encouraging visible public commitments, such as participation in the Strides for Change walk. The GMD leads the design, implementation, and evaluation of these transformative engagement strategies.

Conclusion

Makerere University’s Strides for Change walk and the male changemakers programme, implemented in partnership with the Embassy of Sweden and the United Nations Population Fund, represent a significant milestone in the fight against gender-based violence.  By confronting the interconnected realities of digital and physical violence, addressing entrenched patterns of sexual harassment, and mobilising male allies as agents of change, the University sets a compelling precedent for institutional and national transformation.

Ending GBV is not solely a policy imperative; it is a cultural, structural, and ethical commitment.  These initiatives align with Makerere University’s broader strategic commitment to inclusive excellence, ethical leadership, and safeguarding the well-being of its academic community.

When men stand in solidarity with women, when institutions centre survivours voices, and when society collectively rejects the normalisation of violence, Uganda moves closer to a future in which every woman and girl can pursue her aspirations free from fear, intimidation, and harm. The Strides for Change campaign is therefore more than a march—it is a call to conscience, a model for action, and a promise of a safer and more just society for generations to come.

Acknowledgement

The Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Makerere University, extends its appreciation to the Embassy of Sweden in Uganda, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and all development partners who participated in the Strides for Change walk and the series of activities conducted during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to a comprehensive, 360-degree approach towards achieving zero tolerance for gender-based violence.

References:-

1. Cassidy Wanda, Faucher Chantal and Jackson Margaret (2017): Adversity in University: Cyberbullying and Its Impacts on Students, Faculty and Administrators, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health journal, Article 14(8) page 888
2. Institute of Women and Development Studies and Women of Uganda Network (2021): Not Just a Trend: Assessing the Types, Spread and the Impact of Online Gender Based Violence in Uganda, Research Report.
3. Monteagudo Martinez (2020): Cyberbullying in the University Setting. Relationship With Emotional Problems and Adaptation to the University, Frontiers in Psychology journal, Article: 10:3074
4. Oksanen et al. (2022) — Hate and harassment in academia: the rising concern of the online environment, Vol. 84, pages 541 – 567
5. Pew Research Center (2014): Part 4: The Aftermath of Online Harassment, Pew Research Center, Published on October 22, 2014

Eric Tumwesigye and Cynthia Ayaa Komakec are the Senior Gender Officer and Gender Officer respectively at the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Makerere University