General

Guidelines for Online Research Proposal and Thesis Defence

Published

6 years ago

June 5, 2020

Mak Editor

The Main Building, Makerere University against an almost clear blue sky. Date taken 15th March 2013, Kampala Uganda.

The higher education landscape is rapidly changing, the technological rise of the 21st-century and widespread integration of those technologies into our society, combined with access to the internet has integrally changed graduate research proposal and thesis examination/defence approaches. The rapidly changing landscapes call for a review of the research proposal/thesis examination methods in order to keep up with the times and incorporate integrated technologies into the learning modal, these technologies aren’t going to go away, they’ll continue to be integrated into our society and it’s time to embrace them for the advantages they bring. With the heavy integration of online technologies, the University will be able to improve the teaching and learning processes, information retention, engagement, responsibility and academic integrity.

Virtual and blended approaches have become important because they help to break down the traditional walls of examination, and now with access to present day technologies and resources we can tailor the examination experience to the prevailing conditions.

The Makerere University policy and regulations for the examination of research dissertations and theses provide for three forms of defense, namely, face-to-face; blended; and/or online technology. Traditionally, the Makerere University’s thesis examination policy required that all participants be physically present in the room where the thesis defense is taking place, however, under exceptional circumstances, videoconferencing is permitted provided that the following conditions are met:

The general University regulations governing graduate research proposal and thesis examination/defence will apply (ref. Mak Graduate Hand book available at www.rgt.mak.ac.ug)
A suitable space and technology for the videoconference should be designated before the proposal and thesis defense. The technology should ensure system stability and quality of sound and image during the examination.
Contact the Directorate of Information and Communication Technical Services (DICTs) for audio and videoconference technical support for the duration of the defense.
Inform the Director, Directorate of Research and Graduate Training in advance of an upcoming online research proposal or thesis examination. In this notification letter, the Principal/Dean/Chair should indicate in writing he/she has read and understands the regulations and rules for online examination/defence.
Videoconference software must be used that allows all participants to see and hear each other during the entire examination/defense.
Online participants must connect using hardware and network connections that ensure that all participants are visible and audible and that the connection is stable and available throughout the scheduled time of the defense.
Examination by ordinary cellular telephone (Audio only) is not permitted under any circumstances.
Conducting a practice run one week prior to the defense to ensure that participants are comfortable using the technology is highly recommended.
Maintain a good balance between web-conference security (to avoid disruptions, i.e. ‘web-bombing’) and allowing for an open public participation in the defense.

General Considerations

It is the responsibility of the Department to facilitate the web/teleconference-based defense;
To ensure that the candidate knows how to use the software platform, the Chair and candidate should conduct a test meeting prior to the defense.
Virtual research proposal and thesis defenses should adhere to the normal University requirements and procedures as much as possible;
The candidate and the examiners are encouraged to use a headset to reduce audio feedback, and to use an ethernet connection to the internet instead of WiFi.
The PhD Thesis defenses are open to the public audiences, and specific video connection instructions will be distributed to the University community in advance of the defense.
At the discretion of the Chair of the examination committee, a defense in progress may be stopped and rescheduled, ideally within one week if technical difficulties prevent the student, Chair or examiners from participating.

Before the Examination/defense

The Chair opens the meeting 15 minutes before the scheduled start of the defense. All participants should join the meeting at least 10 minutes before the defense begins.
The Chair should ensure that late participant arrivals do not distract the candidate once they start their oral presentation. Alternatively, the Chair can lock the meeting after the oral presentation begins.
At the start of the defense, the Chair will explain the format of the defense, including the time allowed for the oral presentation and set the ground rules for participation.
It is advisable that the candidate should send their presentation materials to the Supervisor and Chairperson ahead of time in case technical difficulties prevent projecting them during the teleconference.
To avoid distracting the candidate during their oral presentation, examiners and audience members’ microphones and camera should be turned off.

During the Examination/defense

The Chair should reminds the candidate and examination committee of the regulations. The Chair could project the slides on behalf of the candidate.
Audience members can either ask their question via the tool, in which case the Chair can turn on their video and microphone and invite them to interact directly with the candidate.

After the examination/defense

At the end of the question period, the Chair will ask the audience to leave the meeting and invite the candidate to either leave the meeting or isolate them from the other participants in the “lobby” depending on the software platform used.
Each examiner will individual assess and score the candidate’s performance. No vote will be recorded for an examiner who was not able to attend the defense. If an examiner must leave early due to technical difficulties, they can be allowed to vote via email at the Chair’s discretion.
The Chair will ask the examiners to sign the Examination Report. More details on digital signatures shall be provided by the DRGT.

The Chair will invite the candidate to return to the meeting and inform them of the outcome of the examination/defense.
If the candidate passes but revision of the thesis is required, the Chair will provide written comments to the candidate. All examiners must agree on the required changes. Optional changes that the candidate should consider prior to submitting the final report to the DRGT.
If the candidate fails, the Chair will provide written comments on the oral defense performance.
At the committee’s discretion, the candidate may be given a second attempt to defend the proposal or thesis.

Guidelines and best practices for the Principal/Dean/Chair

In advance of the examination/defense, the Chair

Consult with the student to select the video conference program to be used. At the time of the defense, the Chair should be the host/point person for any technology difficulties. Please do not leave this to the student, even if Chair is sure the student is more adept at technology.
Be knowledgeable of the ICT facility especially on how to allow the student to share slides and control the presentation.
Consider offering a “test run” with the student to ensure that the technology works and that they are comfortable using it to present their findings and answer questions.
Ensure that the student maintain audio-video connection throughout the examination.
Be responsible for ensuring that the requirements for online participation are met and that the online participation was uninterrupted or, if interrupted, that the defense was paused until the situation was fully restored.

At the defense

All participants should be in the examination room at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time.
Don’t multitask during the research proposal or thesis defense. Many examiners often do this in the online environment, but this is not a regular online meeting, it is an examination. The student defending has spent years in anticipation of this examination/defense.
Chair has the authority to discontinue the online defense at any time if they judge that online participation is interfering with the proper conduct of a rigorous and fair defense.
If one or more participants is dropped from the connection, or if audio is lost, the defense must be paused until the connection is restored. If the connection cannot be restored, the Chair must suspend the defense until it can be rescheduled.
Chair will introduce the candidate and the examination committee members; just as you would in a live defense (this is also a final check that all the audio/visuals work).
Put a brief the agenda/rules in the chat window as a reminder of the examination rules.
Audio-only participation by either the examination committee members and the student is not permitted.

Guidelines and best practices for the candidate/student defending

In advance of the defense

The student should arrange to distribute all visual materials in advance of the defense
Make sure you know how to use the chosen video conferencing site (WebEx, Zoom, Microsoft Teams).
Share your slides with your Supervisor before the start of the defense. Ensuring someone else has them and could potentially share them if necessary is a good back up plan.
If you have notes or a presentation, practice how you will setup and deliver that beforehand. You may want to arrange your screen so that you can see your committee
To ensure high quality and full access to web-conference features, the candidate should participate in the defense using a laptop or desktop computer.
Plan your physical space for the defense to ensure that there is enough light so that you can be seen without a shadow; avoid glare, shadows, or an overly cluttered backdrop, and Use headphones is encouraged, to reduce any potential background noise.

At the defense

When delivering the presentation, sit and be sure that your webcam has a good shot of you from the shoulders up. In a live defense, you would probably be standing, but that will not work here since you will not be as clearly visible.
Even though you are, sitting and you are communicating via videoconference, your gestures and nonverbal communication still matter. Just as in a face-to-face examination, practice to avoid all those verbal fillers that may clog your communication.

Guidelines and best Practices for the examination committee members/Panelists

Do a test run, and consult DICTs and time to arrange the camera and lighting in advance.
Use your video to the extent that your internet connection allows, rather than a still image or your name.
Please mute your microphone unless you are speaking.
The examination committee members evaluate the candidate’s presentation, the quality of the research proposal or thesis as well as the candidate’s response questions.

Guidelines and best practices for the public audience:

After the defence, examination committee members have completed their rounds of questioning, and if time permits, the audience will have an opportunity to submit questions in writing using the chat feature.
Please keep the microphone muted at all times.

Troubleshooting

Ensure there is a back-up phone number for all required participants in case there is a problem with the technology. While University policy does not allow for participation via phone, being able to reach participants by phone can help troubleshoot a solution.
If all else fails, notify the Director DICTS of the issue by other means (e.g., email, text).

Please follow these directions for planning and conducting an online/virtual proposal or thesis examination. These directions provide procedures and technical guidelines for running a virtual oral research proposal or thesis examination using videoconferencing technology. These directions do not replace the University regulations governing research proposal or thesis examination. Then Chair is responsible for understanding and conducting examination in accordance with the University regulations.

The following recommended directions explain how to set up a video-conference examination, and ensure that the defense runs smoothly and securely.

Process for planning and conducting a videoconference for Graduate Research proposal and Thesis examination/defence

Contact point in case you need further clarification of these regulations and procedures:

Directorate of Research and Graduate Training

Level 4 Senate Building, Makerere University;

P.O. BOX 7062 Kampala

Email: director[at]rgt.mak.ac.ug

General

Press Statement: Makerere 76th Graduation Ceremony

Published

33 minutes ago

January 28, 2026

Mak Editor

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) presents one of the printed batches of transcripts the Registrar College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS)-Ms. Ruth Iteu Eyoku (2nd Right) as Right to Left: DVCAA-Prof. Sarah Ssali, AR-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Ms. Prossy Nakayiki witness on 28th January 2026. Vice Chancellor's Press Briefing on the 76th Graduation due to be held 24th-27th February 2026 at Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University’s 76^th graduation ceremony will be held from February 24^th, 2026, at the Makerere University Freedom Square, starting at 8.30am. During the 76^th graduation ceremony, we shall confer degrees and award certificates to 185 PhDs, 2034 Masters, 6,043 bachelors, 137 post graduate diplomas and 33 Postgraduate diplomas.

I am proud to announce that in comparison to the 75^th graduation, we have registered a 30% growth in graduate student output. This is a result of our strategic decision to prioritize graduate education per our research-led agenda.

I also wish to announce that the transcripts have been finalized and are ready for pick up. Today, I am handing over the ready transcripts to the College principals and can be picked up from respective Colleges even before the graduation ceremony.

Important to Note:

In preparation for the graduation ceremony, the University wishes to note the following:

Pre-graduation clearances
Graduands are reminded to clear all necessary payments such as tuition and all graduation
fees. It is also important to check with your College to ensure your name is on the graduation
list and all mandatory clearances with university officials have been finalized. Note and
internalize the graduation schedule (attached) to know which day you are graduating.
Securing the graduation gowns
Graduation gowns will be issued starting from 2^nd February 2026 from the University Hall (Dinning Hall), Monday to Friday, from 9am to 4pm. To collect your gown, check and ensure your name appears on the Senate Graduation list, present your student number or National ID, and proof of payment for the gown.
Security requirements
- Attendance: For each day of graduation, entrance to the graduation ground will be by invitation only. Graduands will be issued with invitation cards which permits two guests per graduand. Do not come with more than two people or they will not be allowed access to the graduation venue. Graduands are encouraged to arrive to settle at the Freedom Square by 7am on graduation day to for a seamless flow of planned activities including the necessary security checks.
- Prohibited items: Prohibited items include firearms, sharp instruments like mirrors and knives, alcohol, cell or batteries and chemicals, canned food and drinks, laptops, flashes and hard disks, radios including pocket radios, bottled drinks, cameras, large bags or any other heavy items.
- Media: All media and journalists who wish to cover the ceremony must be pre-accredited by the Makerere University Public Relations office or they will not be allowed to access the ceremony venue. The access point for accredited media personnel will be the Senate Building.
- Parking: There will be two designated parking areas; Rugby Grounds for those coming through the Eastern and Main Gate; and the second one is the Makerere University Main Grounds at Makerere College School. For VVIPs, VIPs and procession parking will be at CTF1, Directorate of Legal parking, St Francis and St Augustine parking, JICA and Senate Building.
- Access Control: To ease traffic flow and management, the University has planned three access points to the graduation venue: the School of Social Sciences, Senate Building and the University Swimming Pool.
For help and inquiries
- Starting February 2, 2026, the Academic Registrar ’s Office and Graduation Committee will set up an information tent outside the Senate Building to provide guidance and handle all inquiries pertaining to graduation.

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General

Re-Advert for the Position of the Second Deputy Vice Chancellor

Published

1 day ago

January 27, 2026

Mak Editor

An aerial shot of the Main Building, as taken by a drone over the Freedom Square with Left to Right: CHUSS, St. Francis, St. Augustine and CAES Buildings and the Kikoni area (Background) in view. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

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:

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

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

7. CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION

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

7.1 Academic Qualifications

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

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

7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience

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

7.4 Human Resource and Performance Management

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

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

7.6 Digital Transformation and ICT Integration

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

7.7 Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

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

7.8 Personal Attributes

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

A signed letter of application;
A vision statement;
Curriculum Vitae with contact details signed and dated by the applicant;
Copies of required minimum number of publications;
Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates;
Three (3) letters of recommendation;
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;
A copy of the applicant’s National Identity Card or passport;
A copy of the last clearance from the Inspector General of Government or other equivalent national body;
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 Friday 13^th February, 2026;
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:

SECRETARY SEARCH COMMITTEE

THE ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

MAKERERE UNIVERSITY

6^TH Floor, ROOM 602, SENATE BUILDING

P.O.BOX 7062, KAMPALA, UGANDA

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 Friday 13^th February, 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.
Applicants who responded to the advertisements published on 31^st December 2025 (The New Vision) and 2^nd January 2026 (The Daily Monitor) do not need to re-apply.

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

Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza

ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

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General

Press Statement: Makerere University Congratulates Former Staff and Students on Successful Election to Public Office

Published

1 day ago

January 27, 2026

Mak Editor

An aerial photo of Clockwise Top Left to Right: St. Francis Chapel, Main Building, CAES, JICA Building, Chemistry Building, Mathematics, School of Statistics, Main Library, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, CoBAMS, EPRC, IGDS and the Freedom Square. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University warmly congratulates its former staff and students who emerged victorious in the 2026 national elections. Their success is a source of immense pride to the University and a strong affirmation of Makerere’s efforts to not only nurture academic excellence but also free expression and leadership. It is evidence of Makerere’s enduring impact and contribution to leadership, public service, and national development.

We are particularly pleased to recognize the following distinguished members of the Makerere University community who emerged victorious:

Dr. Kiyonga Crispus Walter, Chancellor of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Bukonzo West.
Mr. Kabaasa Bruce Balaba, Chair, Finance, Planning, Administration, and Investment Committee of the University Council, on his election as MP for Rubanda County West.
Mr. Alionzi Lawrence, former Guild President of Makerere University, on his election as Lord Mayor of Arua City.
Mr. Maseruka Robert, former Guild President of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Mukono South.
Mr. Gyaviira Lubowa Ssebina, former Deputy Bursar of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Nyendo–Mukungwe.
Prof. Lubega George Willy, former Staff at College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), on his election as MP for Bugangaizi South.
Prof. Ahebwa Wilber Manyisa, former Staff at College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), on his election as MP for Nakaseke North.
Hon. Adeke Anna Ebaju, former Guild President, on her re-election as Woman MP for Soroti District.
Hon. Onekalit Denis Amere, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Kitgum Municipality.
Hon. Karuhanga Gerald, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Ntungamo Municipality.
Hon. Aber Lillian, former Vice Guild President, on her re-election as Woman MP for Kitgum District.
Hon. Nyamutoro Phiona, former Vice Guild President, on her election as Woman MP for Nebbi District.

Makerere values dialogue, democracy, and responsible citizenship, and continues to make deliberate and progressive efforts to enhance participation in leadership and governance. We are confident they will serve with dedication, wisdom, and integrity.

We Build for the Future.

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