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Mak Resolutions of the Special Meeting of Council-19th February 2020

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During its special meeting held on 19th February 2020, the University Council considered the Management report, the Senate report, the report of the Finance, Planning, Administration and Investment Committee and reports of University Companies.

Council noted:

  1. That the University Senate had recommended candidates for the positions of Principal and Deputy Principal in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Health Sciences and the College of Business and Management Sciences.
  2. That a petition had been received from 43 staff of the College of Health Sciences regarding the search for the Principal of the College. The petition was received late in relation to the date of the Council meeting. Accordingly, more time was needed to study the matters raised.
  3. That the search for Principals and Deputy Principals continued to attract low numbers of applicants. Council needed to review the low interest in the positions and undertake mitigation measures.
  4. That Consultations had been ongoing regarding the search for the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) following the annulment of the initial appointment by Court. The University needed to advance the search process to another stage.
  5. That for the first half of FY2019/2020, the University received a total cash release of UGX 157.966 Billion from the Consolidated Fund, representing 50% of the appropriated budget for FY2019/2020. The total Non-tax Revenue collection for the half year was UGX 56.2 Billion, representing 117% revenue performance of the estimated revenue collection for the half year period.
  6. That total receipts under grants (off-budget) financing was UGX 112.26 Billion representing 42% of the approved off-budget financing for financial year 2019/2020 which is UGX 256 Billion.
  7. That the University received supplementary funding of UGX 1.891 Billion from Government towards the establishment of a Forensic Sciences Institute in the College of Natural Sciences.
  8. That the University experienced budget implementation challenges including a wage bill deficit of UGX 14.619 Billion and domestic arrears of UGX 46 Billion including the arrears owed to Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS). The Ministry of Finance had been engaged to support the University to cover the deficit.
  9. That the reports and matters concerning University Companies to wit Makerere University Holdings Company Limited, Makerere University Endowment Fund and Africa Institute for Strategic Animal Resource Services and Development (AFRISA) needed to be further studied by the responsible committees of Council including the Audit Committee, Finance, Planning, Administration and Investment Committee (FPAIC), and the Legal, Rules and Privileges Committee.
  10. That Management needed to investigate the operations of Makerere University Private Sector Forum (MUPSF) and make a report to Council.
  11. That there was need to appoint a Board of Directors and Board of Trustees for Makerere University Holdings Company Limited and Makerere University Endowment fund.
  12. That Senate had recommended the establishment of a Biomedical Research Centre in the School of Biomedical Sciences. The proposed Centre is expected to enhance research in Biomedical Sciences.
  13. That the University has commenced on the process of staff appraisal. In addition, it is necessary for all Heads of Administrative Units to submit quarterly performance reports to the Vice Chancellor.
  14. That Management set up a committee to investigate the administration of the 70th graduation. The investigation was expected to address issues relating to the supply of gowns for the 70th graduation. The Committee was also expected to provide recommendations for improving the management of graduation ceremonies.
  15. That there is need to provide alternatives for graduands to access graduation gowns, the options should include hiring or purchasing the gowns.
  16. That at its 148th meeting held on 20th December 2019, Council resolved that all short-term or stopgap contracts that expire were not to be renewed. The Appointments Board permitted the Vice Chancellor to consider urgent matters where he could extend such contracts for a maximum of three months and not exceeding 31st March 2020.
  17. That Management was undertaking commendable efforts to protect University land.
  18. That based on request of the Students Guild, Management extended Guild Elections pending consideration of the proposals to amend the Guild Electoral Regulations as requested by the students during the Emergency Council Meeting of 29th October 2019. Council had received written submissions from the Students’ Guild on the proposed amendments which need to be considered urgently.
  19. That Council needs to enact a Grants Management Policy to streamline the management of grants in the University.

Council Agreed:

  1. To approve the Senate recommendation of candidates for the positions of Principal and Deputy Principal and accordingly recommend the following to the Chancellor for appointment:

Principal College of

Humanities and Social Sciences

Dr. Josephine Ahikire

Principal, College of

Business and Management Sciences

Dr. Eria Hisali

Deputy Principal, College of

Business and Management Sciences

Dr. Bruno Yawe

Deputy Principal, College of

Health Sciences

Dr. Moses Kajja                                        

  1. To defer consideration of the Senate recommendation of the candidate for Principal of the College of Health Sciences pending the decision on the petition raised by staff of the College. The said petition shall be handled within a period of two weeks.
  2. To approve the establishment of a Biomedical Research Centre in the School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences.
  3. To approve the Budget Performance Report for Quarter Two of FY2019/2020.
  4. To refer matters of Makerere University Holdings Company Limited and Makerere University Endowment Fund to the Audit Committee of Council.
  5. To refer the proposed amendments to the Guild Electoral Regulations to the Legal, Rules and Privileges Committee, which shall report to Council within a period of one week.
  6. To refer matters of AFRISA to the different Committees of Council to wit: Legal matters be considered by the Legal, Rules and Privileges Committee, Financial and Administration matters be handled by Finance, Planning, Administration and Investment Committee and Audit matters be handled by the Audit Committee
  7. To require all heads of Administrative Units to submit quarterly performance reports to the Vice Chancellor who in turn shall submit the reports to Council.
  8. That the University Senate be required to set up a Search Committee for the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration).
  9. That Management investigates the operations of Makerere University Private Sector Forum and reports to Council at the next meeting.
  10. To extend the tenure of the outgoing Board of Directors of Makerere University Holdings Company Limited and the Board of Trustees of Makerere University Endowment Fund for one-year effective 31st August 2019.
  11. That Management considers alternative ways for graduands to access graduation gowns. This should include the option of purchasing or hiring the gowns.
  12. That there shall be no extension of stopgap and or short-term contracts beyond 31st March 2020 without authorisation of the Appointments Board.
  13. That management presents a proposed Grants Management Policy to the Legal, Rules and Privileges Committee within a period of two weeks.

 

………………………                                                                                    ………………………

Lorna Magara (Mrs)                                                                                     Yusuf Kiranda

CHAIRPERSON                                                                                          SECRETARY

 

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Makerere University signs Memorandum of Understanding with International Rescue Committee to Advance Research, Innovation and Partnerships

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Prof. Anthony Mugagga (Left), Principal of MakCEES exchanging the MoU with Mr. Elijah Okuyo, Country Director, IRC

Makerere University has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Rescue Committee to formalize undertakings in research, innovation & partnerships.

Signed in September 2025 by the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the Country Director, International Rescue Committee,  Mr. Elijah Okeyo, the MoU provides a framework to implement research intensive programmes, promote innovative teaching and learning, internationalization, and contribute to societal transformation.

According to Mr. Okeyo, the MoU re-affirms Makerere University as the academic partner of the International Rescue Committee (IRC). “This MoU formalizes IRC’s working relationship with Makerere University. This framework empowers both institutions to tap into opportunities together. We believe in equal partnership. Makerere University commits to being our partner in research to contribute to evidence based humanitarian undertakings,” he said.

Under this collaboration, Makerere University and IRC will work on developing child-centered learning resources, innovative curricula, and policy-relevant research to enhance the quality of education in crisis-affected regions.

At Makerere University, the MoU brings on board, the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Research Centre.

To concretize the MoU, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga convened a partnership meeting on Friday 12th September 2025  involving a delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Dr. David Kabugo, the Deputy Director of Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER),  and Ms. Ritah Namisango, the Principal Communication Officer.

Mak CEES and IRC partnership meeting in progress

The delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) consisted of the following: Mr. Elijah Okeyo-Country Director, Mr. Vincent Wanyama-Senior Program Development and Quality Coordinator,  Mr. Richard Omasete-Policy and Advocacy PlayMatters, and Ms. Janet Nambuya-Grants and Partnerships Coordinator.

The MoU focuses on the following areas of interest: Early Childhood Development, joint research and capacity building in education, the plight of refugees and the host communities, humanitarian aid, as well as, evidence based research to inform the education policy.

In line with its mandate, IRC brings onboard, its unmatched expertise in helping children in crisis-affected areas. The MoU therefore positions both institutions to undertake a leading role in the protection of children and families through evidence based research, access to education, and humanitarian undertakings.

Dr. Kabugo, the Deputy Director MITER, noted that the MoU opens new opportunities for joint efforts in research, training, and policy. He said: “We are committed to co-designing practitioner research, engaging in professional development, and generating evidence to guide the education policy in Uganda and beyond.” Dr. Kabugo explained that this partnership builds on years of cooperation between CEES and IRC, especially in child-centered methods such as play-based learning.

Prof. Mugagga described the MOU as a practical framework that connects Makerere University’s research with IRC’s field experiences. He stated that the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) conducts programmes focused on the future of the young people through training and empowering students/teachers. He articulated that the College significantly impacts on the education sector through delivery of quality academic programmes and research under the School of Education, School of  Distance and Lifelong Learning, and the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development.

“Our strongest synergy is education and early child-focused care,” Prof. Mugagga emphasized. He revealed that the collaboration presents CEES with a strong and reliable partner (IRC), which stands for protection and the well-being of children and families. “Through this MoU, both CEES and IRC, will significantly contribute to improving education for children, families, and communities impacted by conflict and crisis.”

Prof. Mugagga commended IRC for the earlier support and expertise extended to the College in the development of the early childhood centre, and working together to provide valuable input during the Ministry of Education and Sports’ consultative process that led to the Early Childhood development policy.

Reflecting on the increasing number of refugees enrolling for studies at Makerere University, Prof. Mugagga  said: “ IRC has come at the right time. The College will tap into the IRC expertise to teach our staff and learners components in refugee education. They will equip our students and teachers with knowledge and skills in refugee education. Some of our students will cooperate with IRC to undertake research in refugee settlement and host communities.”

[L-R] Dr. David Kabugo, Deputy Director (MITER), Mr. Vincent Wanyama (IRC), Prof. Anthony Mugagga (Principal, MakCEES), Mr. Elijah Okeyo( Country Director-IRC), Ms. Janet Nambuya (IRC), Mr. Richard Omasette (IRC) and Ms. Ritah Namisango, PCO (MakCEES)

Prof. Mugagga implored both MITER and IRC to undertake research and develop modules on refugee education, parenting, re-tooling street children, integration of a health component into the curriculum, and management of truamatised students/learners who come from areas affected by war, conflict and crisis.

On the issue of play materials, Prof. Mugagga stressed that already made play materials derial creativing. “Both CEES and IRC should work towards a context that empowers children and learners to ignite their creative potential by developing home-made play materials,” he submitted.

About IRC

Stating a brief profile history about IRC, Mr. Okeyo explained that IRC is a global non-profit organisation that provides humanitarian aid and assistance to people affected by conflict and disaster. IRC has been active in Uganda since 1998, originally assisting displaced populations in Northern Uganda and later expanding its efforts to refugee settlements and urban areas.. Currently, IRC operates more than 35 health facilities in refugee settlements and runs a variety of programs in health, education, protection, and economic recovery. IRC also undertakes projects focusing on early childhood development, prevention of gender-based violence, and protection of refugees and families.

Ritah Namisango
Ritah Namisango

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Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University encouraged to participate in philanthropy work

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Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala addressing the gathering on behalf of DVC F&A, Prof. Ireeta. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Carol Kasujja Adii and Bernard Buteera

Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University have been encouraged to embrace the spirit of philanthropy as a vital foundation for fostering stronger and more resilient communities. This inspiring call to action took place during the 2025 Community Open Day at the Freedom Square on Saturday, September 6, 2025, where hundreds of Mastercard Scholars, Scholar-alumni, and partners of the Scholars Program gathered to initiate a fundraising drive for the signature Annual Scholars Day of Service.

The Annual Scholars Day of Service stands as a hallmark event through which the Scholars give back to the community in impactful and sustainable ways. During a keynote address titled “How Philanthropy Shapes Resilient Communities,” Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration, emphasised that while local philanthropy is not a new concept in Uganda, a more intentional mobilisation of this giving back power is necessary to address broader social challenges.

“Communities that mobilise their own resources—financial, human, and material—are empowered to take ownership of their development. Ownership naturally leads to sustainability, ensuring that solutions emerge from local knowledge, context, and values rather than being imposed from the outside. This approach is essential for effectively tackling our social challenges,” Prof. Ireeta stated.

A cross-section of scholar-alumni, listening attentively during the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A cross-section of scholar-alumni, listening attentively during the event.

In his remarks delivered by Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Ireeta highlighted the importance of nurturing the inherent power of local giving. He urged the celebration of current local philanthropic efforts, which can be initiated at the individual, religious, and community levels.

“To foster a culture of giving, we need to create platforms that promote structured, transparent, and impactful contributions,” he argued. “It’s crucial to strengthen our generosity, particularly among the youth, and cultivate a society where giving is valued as a core aspect of leadership and citizenship.”

Prof. Ireeta further noted, “The future of our Communities’ strength lies not in distant promises but in our own hands and collective actions. By fostering local philanthropy, we can build a society that is not only fairer but also more resilient and united.

Mr. John Osuna, speaking on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, at the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. John Osuna, speaking on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, at the event.

In his welcoming remarks, Mr. John Osuna, Transition Lead for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, who spoke on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, expressed gratitude to the Scholars for their collaborative efforts in turning the idea of giving back into reality.

“Let us embody humility, kindness, and compassion through actionable philanthropy. By doing so, we can create lasting impacts, enhancing our reputation as a community that genuinely cares,” Mr. Osuna stated.

The Community Open Day was organised under the inspiring theme: “Nurturing Philanthropy for Resilient Communities,” paving the way for future initiatives that strengthen community bonds through collective generosity.

A cross-section of the alumni making their pledges towards the scholars give back project. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A cross-section of the alumni making their pledges towards the scholars give back project.

“We believe that through nurturing philanthropy for resilient communities, our communities shall be able to organise themselves to build resilience beyond what we shall give back,” Mr. Osuna explained.

The vibrant event saw Scholars and Scholar-alumni actively participating by bringing items for auction and buying tickets for the raffle draw as a means of mobilising resources for the construction of a ventilated pit latrine, renovation of two classroom blocks and providing tanks for harvesting clean water for Bwera Primary School in Kabale District.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Agnes Katumba, the Director of Katumba Estates, one of the long-standing partners of the Scholars Program at Makerere University, tasked the Scholars to embrace the heart of giving back without expecting something in return.

Ms. Agnes Katumba, the Director, Katumba Estates Ltd handing over part of her pledge towards the Scholars Giveback project. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Agnes Katumba, the Director, Katumba Estates Ltd handing over part of her pledge towards the Scholars Giveback project.

“I thank the Mastercard Foundation; they not only provide scholarships but also give back to the community. I have been able to grow because of them. For scholars, you do not have to wait to be wealthy to give back; every coin counts,” Mrs. Katumba said.

Katumba Estates Ltd contributed three million shillings to the Scholars Give Back project. Another long-standing partner, DFCU Bank, pledged over sh10 million towards the Scholars’ building project.

The Representative from DFCU making the pledge to support Scholars Giveback project on behalf of the Bank. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Representative from DFCU making the pledge to support Scholars Giveback project on behalf of the Bank.

In her presentation, Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar-alumna, urged current Scholars to contribute to their communities in various ways, including mentorship and guiding young people.

Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Scholar-alumna addressing fellow Scholars and alumni at the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Scholar-alumna addressing fellow Scholars and alumni at the event.

“We are all here because someone chose to give. During my first year at Makerere, I contributed to some young man’s school fees back home in my community. The young man is now in his second year at Makerere. You don’t have to be wealthy to make an impact; be intentional in your giving, and you will witness the difference it makes. There is no greater fulfilment than helping someone in need,” Akwara stated.

Some of the Scholars praying for their raffle draw tickets to win. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the Scholars praying for their raffle draw tickets to win.

The event was punctuated with a number of activities that ranged from auctioning items, raffle draws, exhibitions, quizzes and a lot of games and fun.

The winner of the grand draw walked away with a flat screen TV. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The winner of the grand draw walked away with a flat screen TV.

Carol Kasujja and Bernard Buteera form the communications team for the Scholars Programme at Makerere University.

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First-Year Student’s Joining Instructions 2025/26

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Dear Students; Class of 2025/2026
I am very delighted to welcome you to Makerere University. You are joining a Premier University and I hope you all are excited to start your new academic journey. We would like to first congratulate all of you for successfully overcoming the many challenges you have all faced, from completing high school to choosing a university and a study program and the extensive delays in the admission process you experienced.

As you are about to begin one of the most exciting times in your life, you should acknowledge and appreciate your efforts and achievements so far. I am aware that as a fresher, you are filled with hope and ambition, and I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the road that has brought you here. I know that you have worked hard and overcome many obstacles
to reach this point. So, take a moment to savor this achievement and be proud of yourselves.

Now, as you step into the next phase of your lives, I want to remind you that this is a time of growth and exploration. You will face new challenges, make new friends, and gain experiences that will shape you into the person you will become. This is the time to embrace new opportunities, learn from your mistakes, and never stop growing.

I also want to emphasise the importance of hard work, determination, and resilience. These are the qualities that will help you overcome any obstacle and succeed in your endeavors. Remember to keep your focus on your goals and work towards them with determination.
I encourage you to approach your studies with a growth mindset. This means that you believe that your abilities can be developed through hard work and perseverance. Remember that failure is not the end, but rather an opportunity to learn and grow.

Professor Buyinza Mukadasi (PhD)
Academic Registrar

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