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Mak-GMD Holds Sensitization Workshop on Sexual Harassment

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The Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) on Friday 13th March, 2020 embarked on a series of workshops to sensitize staff on the Makerere University Policy and Regulations Against Sexual Harassment (PRASH) of 2006, as amended in 2018 as well as the Gender Equality Policy (MUGEP) 2009. The first of four workshops brought together participants from the Colleges of; Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Education and External Studies (CEES), Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) and the School of Law (LAW).

Makerere University in 1998 took the lead among Higher Education Institutions in the region by establishing the Senate Committee on Gender Mainstreaming which did the preparatory work for the creation of the Gender Mainstreaming Programme (GMP). This was followed by the establishment of the Gender Mainstreaming Division (GMD) under the Academic Registrar’s Department in 2000 and subsequently, creation of an independent Directorate in 2009.

Setting the tone for the workshop, Ms. Susan Mbabazi, the Principal Gender Officer, GMD shared that the purpose of the training was to create awareness among members of the Makerere University community about mainstreaming gender in the core functions of: Teaching and Learning; Research and Innovations; Knowledge Transfer Partnerships and Networking as well as Support Services.

Ms. Susan Mbabazi (Left) and Ms. Frances Nyachwo (Right) confer during the Sensitisation Workshop on Friday 13th March, 2020, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.

“The training is also aimed at enhancing staff capacities to mainstream gender in their respective functions as well as developing a common understanding about roles, responsibilities and obligations in implementing the Gender Equality Policy and the Policy and Regulations Against Sexual Harassment” explained Ms. Mbabazi.

Taking participants through Complaints and Reporting Mechanisms with regard to the Policy and Regulations Against Sexual Harassment (PRASH), the Deputy Director, GMD, Ms. Frances Nyachwo shared that the rules were applicable to Staff (Academic, Administrative and Support), Students as well as contractors, partners and visitors to university premises. In particular, she urged the staff or any persons in authority to always take steps to advance complaints reported to them in a timely and appropriate manner because failure to do so subjects them to disciplinary action under the PRASH.

“The complaint may be informal, in which case the victim wishes for immediate action to be taken; for instance, issuing a warning the harasser, but is not ready to lodge a formal complaint. A formal complaint on the other hand must be written and signed containing the: name, address and contact details of the complainant; date of the complaint; nature and details of the act or conduct complained about; and any other relevant details concerning the complaint” said Ms. Nyachwo.

Ms. Frances Nyachwo (Right) confers with a participant during the break

The Deputy Director went on to share that all formal complaints received by GMD are then forwarded to the Vice Chancellor to appoint an Ad hoc Committee composed of a minimum of three and maximum seven members from the Roster of 100, to further investigate the complaint.

Prof. Grace Bantebya from the School of Women and Gender Studies is an experienced lecturer, researcher and advocate for gender equality and social transformation who has witnessed first-hand the plight of the girl child. Making her presentation on “Reporting and Investigating Sexual Harassment at Makerere University she noted that the vice mainly draws on a culture that emphasizes the male identity and its connotations as well as power imbalance between the victim and harasser.

She noted that investigating committees were often challenged by resource constraints that hindered the launch of full-fledged investigations as well as fear by victims, survivors and bystanders to testify against abusers. “Additionally, the investigations at times take over six months to complete, which is too long for victims or survivors to receive justice.”

Prof. Grace Bantebya (Left) contributes to the discussion during the first sensitisation workshop organised by the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate.

Prof. Bantebya however recommended for the reduction of spaces, situations that tilted the power balance towards abusers as well as additional budgetary support to GMD and its committees to carry out detailed investigations. “Finally, the reporting system should be separated from the teaching and learning processes and reported cases should be handled expeditiously.”

Makerere University shall take all necessary steps to engender the curricula of all its academic programmes” reads the first policy resolution of the MUGEP. Making a presentation on Mainstreaming Gender in Makerere University Curricula”, Acting Director GMD, Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine shared that the unit regularly conducts a gender audit of all proposed academic programmes before they are approved by Council.

Touching on research and innovations, Dr. Baine said it was important to holistically integrate gender dimensions in all research projects and programmes, including composition of research teams. “In our trainings, we always urge researchers not to simply add the gender component as an afterthought but incorporate gender analysis all through the research process. This starts right from generation of ideas, designing the research, methodology, data collection, data analysis and report writing and to dissemination of the findings.”

The Acting Director, GMD, Dr. Euzobia Baine Mugisha made a presentation on Mainstreaming Gender in Makerere University Curricula.

The final presentation on the day was by the Senior Gender Officer, GMD, Mr. Eric Tumwesigye on “Gender and Equity Budgeting Certification Process and Requirements”. He noted that it was important for units to be aware of the legal provisions in the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) 2015 in order for their budgets to be issued a gender and equity certification of compliance “by the Minister responsible for Finance in consultation with the Equal Opportunities Commission.”

In particular, Mr. Tumwesigye outlined key issues for the Education sector as; Sexual harassment, Gross imbalance in female participation among academic staff at all levels, Underrepresentation of women in higher level decision-making committees and senior administrative positions, Underrepresentation of women in science disciplines, Limited support and spaces for nursing female staff and Limited female representation in students’ politics.

The workshops continue on Monday 16th March, 2020 for the Colleges of; Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-security (CoVAB). Thursday 19th March, 2020 will be dedicated to the Colleges of; Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) and Health Sciences (CHS). The fourth and final workshop will be held on Friday 20th March, 2020 for staff from non-teaching units.

The following are hotlines run by GMD officials as avenues for reporting Sexual Harassment: +256-755-797130, +256-784-609661, +256-758-540263 and +256-785-594931. The community may also make use of the SafePal Mobile App, available on the Google Play Store to confidentially report cases of sexual harassment. The App can be accessed at the link below https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.unfpa.safepal

 

Article by Public Relations Office.

Mark Wamai

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Notice: Makerere Disability Scheme 2025/26 Medical Review Exercise

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Person with special needs at the 73rd Graduation Ceremony

The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites persons with disability who applied for admission to public universities under the Disability Scheme for 2025/2026 academic year to appear for medical/review exercise at Makerere University, Senate Building, Level Two (2) in the Telepresence Centre.

Note: Only those who have the minimum entry requirements of at least two principal passes at A’ Level and at least five (5) Passes at O’ Level or the equivalent will be interviewed.

Only candidates candidates who sat A’ Level in 2024, 2023 and 2022 are eligible for admission.

The exercise will be conducted on 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th and 30th May, 2025 respectively from 9.00 a.m – 1.00 p.m. each day.

Important:

a)If you fail to appear on any of the given days above, there will be no other chance for you.

b) Applicants who are beneficiaries of other Government Scholarships are not eligible for admission through the Disability Scheme.

Mak Editor

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Mak Inducts Newly Appointed Staff

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Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda and Mr. Amon Muteganda pose for a group photo with new staff during the induction ceremony on 15th May 2025. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year. Held in the Senate Conference Hall, day one of the induction was presided over by the Acting (Ag.) Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-DVCAA, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, who represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

Warmly welcoming the new staff, Prof. Buyinza congratulated the ladies and gentlemen upon choosing Makerere University as the workplace for embarking on their next phase of professional growth, self-discovery, and personal development.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi addresses new staff during the induction. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi addresses new staff during the induction.

“You are joining a century-old institution with a distinguished history and a deeply rooted culture of academic excellence” Prof. Buyinza remarked. “For over 100 years, Makerere has nurtured the intellectual talents of young people and contributed meaningfully to the development of society across the globe,” he added.

The Ag. DVCAA nevertheless tipped that although the onboarding process might overwhelm staff with a lot of information, it is all meant to enable them better understand their roles, the benefits due them, and the unique opportunities that come with working in a world-class institution. Prof. Buyinza therefore encouraged new staff to contribute to the attainment of Makerere’s Mission, connect with the vibrant community they are now part of, enjoy the beautiful greenery the campus affords, and take advantage of professional development as well as well-being promoting programmes.

“At Makerere University, the well-being, safety, and professional growth of our staff are priorities. We are committed to walking this journey with you, and to building an institution that is not only a place of work but a place of inspiration and belonging” Prof. Buyinza reassured.

Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni (2nd Right) responds to a question as Left to Right: Mr. Amon Muteganda, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Mr. Emmanuel Kitamirike listen. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni (2nd Right) responds to a question as Left to Right: Mr. Amon Muteganda, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Mr. Emmanuel Kitamirike listen.

In his welcome remarks, the Chief Human Resources Officer, Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni congratulated the new staff upon successfully completing the rigorous process the resulted into their respective appointments. He equally thanked the Vice Chancellor for endorsing the induction ceremony with not only budgetary support but also his representation.

Reiterating the need to appreciate the culture, politics and dynamics of the institution that they are now part of, Mr. Mujuni tasked new staff to take time and appreciate the University Vision, Mission and Objectives, and ensure that they adhere to them. He equally urged new staff to read and understand the various university policies and where in doubt, consult the relevant offices.

Ultimately, he urged staff in the fulfilment of their duties and responsibilities not to disregard their individual goals. “You have aspirations that you must achieve as an individual and I encourage you not to neglect them.”

Mr. Amon Muteganda congratulated the new staff upon their respective appointments. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Amon Muteganda congratulated the new staff upon their respective appointments.

The University Council as the supreme governing body of the university is also the policy making body, whose Appointments Board oversees the appointment, promotion, removal from service, and discipline of all university staff and officers. The representative of Staff with Disabilities on University Council, Mr. Amon Muteganda Kabahima who chaired the session on University Governance equally congratulated new staff.

“You underwent a tough process full of various competitive stages and we are sure that we have the right people for the various jobs” he commended.

Addressing aspects of University Governance and the key Offices, the University Secretary and Secretary to Council, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda guided that the policies and regulations that govern the institution are broad, numerous, and as such cannot adequately be covered over the two-day induction. He nevertheless encouraged staff to visit the University Policies website and appraise themselves with the details, not only for avoidance of breaching them but also building a culture voluntary compliance.

Mr. Yusuf Kiranda made a presentation on University Governance and Key Offices. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Yusuf Kiranda made a presentation on University Governance and Key Offices.

Mr. Kiranda equally encouraged staff not to ascribe importance and respect to colleagues based on rank and titles but seek to esteem each and every member of staff as an important and vital contributor to the fulfilment of the University’s Vision and Mission.

“We are all equally important in this university; the person whose services the university does not require, it does not hire. As long as you are here, you are required” he explained.

The University Secretary equally called upon staff to familiarize themselves with the law that establishes and governs public universities; the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA). In his presentation, he singled out section twenty-four (24) that outlines the objectives of a public university in Uganda, as well as sections 30 to 32 that prescribe various offices’ responsibilities.

Mr. Kiranda equally encouraged staff to read the Human Resources Manual, Policy and Regulations against Sexual Harassment (PRASH), the Safeguarding Policy, among others. He concluded by reiterating the need for staff to read and appreciate the policies that directly address their welfare and steer clear of negative narratives and discourse, particularly those that seek to weaponize discourse. Other topics to be covered during the two-day induction include; the University Strategic Plan, Financing, Research-led Agenda, Institutional Communication and Public Relations and the Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS). Topics to be covered on day two include; Legal Instruments, The Collegiate System, Human Resources Management and Functions, as well as Policies on Gender Equality and Sexual Harassment. Others include; Academic Issues, Quality Assurance, Procurement, Audit, and Library Resources.

Mark Wamai

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Pre-entry Exam Results for Bachelor of Laws 2025/2026

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The office of the Academic Registrar has released the results for Bachelor of Laws Pre-Entry Examination 2025/2026 held on Saturday 12th April, 2025.

Candidates who scored 50% and above passed the examination and have been recommended to the Admissions Committee for consideration. However, the candidates who passed have to submit an application where Bachelor of Laws is among the programme choices in the application system here: https://apply.mak.ac.ug.

Those who are not satisfied with their results may appeal within two weeks from the date of the release of results.

The list includes the different categories of applicants namely: A-level, Diploma Holders, Degree Holders and Mature-Age:

Mak Editor

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