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MISR Vacancies: Senior Research Fellow and Research Fellow

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Expressions of interest are invited from suitably qualified candidates for the listed posts below. Interested applicants should submit application, Curriculum Vitae, Certificates and Transcripts
giving full details of applicant’s education, qualifications, work experience, present salary and
naming three referees, plus their postal and email addresses.

Letters should be addressed to;

The Director
Makerere Institute of Social Research
P.O. Box 16022
Wandegeya, Kampala.

Applications should be sent to applications.misr[at]gmail.com with a copy to mm1124[at]columbia.edu

(a) Senior Research Fellow

Qualification:

  • (i) PhD
  • (ii) A minimum of six (6) new publications in Refereed journals
  • (iii) A minimum of five (5) years of proven Research
  • (iv) Not less than ten (10) researched papers;
  • (v) Contribution to the intellectual life in the area of specialization

Area of Specialization:

  • Political theory: global premodern and contemporary modern;
  • History: (a) historical methods and historiography, archival research(b) Africa Before Western Hegemony and Indian Ocean; (c) Gender in History
  • Political Economy: Ecology and the Environment
  • The study of culture: theory and ethnography; gender and ethnicity

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Publish at least two Articles a year;
  • Teach two MISR graduate courses annually, and the 3rd Year PhD Colloquium; Give at least one Research Seminar a year;
  • Participate in planning a MISR workshop and book publication annually;
  • Participate in planning and carrying out MISR core Research Projects;
  • Participate in writing at least one policy brief annually in the area of specialization;
  • Prepare and submit an Annual activity Report;
  • Actively participate in service to the Institute and University;
  • Participate in workshops run by the Institute;
  • Supervision of Students to completion;
  • Perform any other related duties as may be assigned by the Director.

Tenure of appointment:

Five (5) years renewable contract subject to satisfactory performance following an appraisal.

(b) Research Fellow

Qualification:

  • (i) PhD
  • (ii) A minimum of three (3) publications in Refereed journals
  • (iii) A minimum of three (3) years of proven Research
  • (iv) At least two (2) Researched Papers

Area of Specialization:

  • Political theory: global premodern and contemporary modern;
  • History: (a) historical methods and historiography, archival research – (b) Africa Before Western Hegemony and Indian Ocean
  • Political Economy: Ecology and the Environment
  • The study of culture: theory and ethnography

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Publish at least one Article a year;
  • Teach at least two MISR graduate courses annually, and the 3rd Year PhD Colloquium;
  • Give at least one Research Seminar a year;
  • Participate in planning and carrying out MISR core Research Projects;
  • Prepare and submit an Annual activity Report;
  • Actively participate in service to the Institute and University;
  • Participate in workshops run by the Institute;
  • Supervision of Students to completion;
  • Perform any other related duties as may be assigned by the Director.

Tenure of appointment:

Five (5) years renewable contract subject to satisfactory performance following an appraisal.

Mark Wamai

Humanities & Social Sciences

Mak HR Chief Emphasizes the Role of Line Managers in Organizational Success

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Makerere University’s Chief Human Resource Officer, Deus Tayari Mujuni makes his presentation on 2nd November 2024. Makerere University College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Staff Retreat, 1st-2nd November 2024, Nican Resort Hotel, Seguku Entebbe Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University’s Chief Human Resource Officer, Deus Tayari Mujuni, highlighted the critical role of line managers in ensuring the successful execution of university strategies and goals during a retreat organized by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) at Nican Resort from November 1-2, 2024. The retreat focused on human resource policies, the work environment, and employee well-being.

In his address, Mujuni reminded line managers of their responsibility to oversee employees effectively, appreciate their contributions, and maintain a conflict-free environment to foster collaboration and productivity. “Line managers must lead by example, identifying key roles within their teams and supporting each member’s contribution to organizational goals,” Mujuni stated.

Makerere University’s Chief Human Resource Officer, Deus Tayari Mujuni makes his presentation at the CHUSS Retreat. Makerere University College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Staff Retreat, 1st-2nd November 2024, Nican Resort Hotel, Seguku Entebbe Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Makerere University’s Chief Human Resource Officer, Deus Tayari Mujuni makes his presentation at the CHUSS Retreat.

Mujuni outlined several key aspects of Makerere University’s updated human resource policies, including the roles of the HR Directorate, line managers, and the amended 2009 Human Resources Manual. This manual consolidates all HR policies and practices into one reference document, defining the rights and responsibilities of both the university and its employees.

According to Mujuni, the HR Directorate’s responsibilities encompass recruiting and training staff, conducting performance appraisals, managing grievances, and planning future workforce needs. “Our role is to attract, develop, and retain an effective workforce that aligns with the university’s strategic objectives,” Mujuni explained, adding, “If we are to manage HR, every person must contribute. The total budget of the university is 331 billion, but what goes to staff is 221 billion, meaning we must show that the university is working, and we have to account for it.”

In accordance with recent policies, line managers must identify gaps in capacity, declare vacancies promptly, and adhere to set guidelines for short-term contractual appointments. The University Council resolved in May 2024 to limit salary payments and contract staffing expenses, which will now strictly fall under the wage budget to ensure efficient allocation of funds for essential functions such as teaching and research. “No more contracts for part-time staff. Line managers are asked to abide by the policy, and there must be a structure, a budget, and a vacancy.”

Mujuni also underscored the importance of the HR Manual in guiding employment procedures. “This manual governs the entry, stay, and exit of staff, covering recruitment, appraisals, promotions, and leave management,” he emphasized. He discussed various leave policies, including study leave and maternity leave, and the roles of line managers in leave approvals, monitoring, and reporting.

“Staff who go on study leave have become a thorny issue. Some staff leave and never return or finish their studies, remaining on the payroll. Going forward, no staff should go on study leave unless they have served for a minimum of two years, and a circular is coming out on this,” he said.

Participants pose for a group photo on Day 2 of the CHUSS Retreat. Makerere University College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Staff Retreat, 1st-2nd November 2024, Nican Resort Hotel, Seguku Entebbe Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants pose for a group photo on Day 2 of the CHUSS Retreat.

Mujuni noted that the university has faced scrutiny from the Parliamentary Committee on Accounts, as 40% of the academic staff in some colleges have not returned even after their study programs expired. He warned heads of departments to be careful about endorsing signatures for study leaves.

Performance management, a key component of the university’s human resource strategy, aims to foster a high-performance culture. Line managers are tasked with aligning individual staff objectives with the university’s goals and conducting systematic appraisals to monitor progress. “We ensure staff contribute and are happy. The biometric system did not come to harass staff but to improve performance. I encourage all of you to key in tasks if you are to be away, but ensure your supervisors approve,” Mujuni added. He also urged line managers to understand their roles, appreciate individual efforts and interests, and avoid conflicts.

Additionally, Makerere University places a high priority on employee safety, following the Occupational Health and Safety Act of 2006. “We are committed to providing a safe working environment, reducing risks, and offering necessary safety training,” Mujuni said.

Mujuni further explained that the university’s disciplinary guidelines require employees to adhere to both Ugandan laws and Makerere’s policies. Misconduct may result in corrective actions such as written reprimands, suspension, or dismissal. Additionally, line managers are required to submit accurate monthly attendance reports to avoid discrepancies in payroll, as noted in a University Appointments Board directive.

Through these reinforced policies and a focus on strong management, the HR Chief stated that Makerere University aims to enhance staff engagement, productivity, and adherence to a high-performance standard across all departments.

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Jane Anyango

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CHUSS Management and Staff trained in Leadership and Office etiquette

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Dr. Gilbert Gumoshabe leads the session on Office Etiquette at the CHUSS Retreat. Makerere University College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Staff Retreat, 1st-2nd November 2024, Nican Resort Hotel, Seguku Entebbe Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) management team—including principals, deans, heads of departments, and administrative support staff—participated in a training retreat which included aspects of leadership and office etiquette. The retreat, held on November 1-2, 2024, at Nican Resort Hotel in Entebbe, was part of the college’s ongoing efforts to foster professional growth and enhance workplace culture.

The training featured sessions on Leadership for Hope led by Ivan Kalema, and Office Etiquette presented by Dr. Gilbert Gumoshabe.

Leadership for Hope with Ivan Kalema

Ivan Kalema is a seasoned trainer who works with boards, organizations, and senior management, offering a transformative program called Leadership for Hope. With a background in engineering and finance, he found his path into corporate governance through the mentorship of a gentleman named Japheth Cuttle, who introduced him to this vital subject.

Ivan Kalema with staff - lesson in progress. Makerere University College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Staff Retreat, 1st-2nd November 2024, Nican Resort Hotel, Seguku Entebbe Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ivan Kalema with staff – lesson in progress.

As a certified trainer for Leadership for Hope, Ivan collaborates with emerging leaders from the UK and has partnered with Marks & Spencer, a global company with operations across various regions, including Africa. His program aims to inspire individuals at all levels, driven by the belief that the principles of leadership are universal. Just as the law of gravity applies to everyone, so too do the principles of leadership resonate, whether he is speaking to professors or schoolchildren. He often shares insights that can help students enhance their academic performance, illustrating that effective leadership principles are accessible to all.

Ivan emphasizes that sustainable change cannot occur without effective leadership. “You cannot create sustainable change or transformation wherever it is without leadership,” he asserts, highlighting the necessity of cultivating leadership in order to effect meaningful change. This is a cornerstone of his message, encouraging participants to envision and create the change they desire, especially when faced with chaos or stagnation.

“A leader is a dealer of hope. In leadership, you must encounter situations of hopelessness. In homes, workplace, you will encounter the wall of hopelessness manifested in different forms no matter where you come from, which association, faith, school you went to”

A common misconception about leadership is that it is merely a position held by those with the highest rank or specific family ties. Ivan challenges this notion, arguing that true leadership is not defined by one’s background but rather by the application of essential leadership principles. He advocates for a mindset transformation, explaining that adopting specific leadership mindsets is crucial for personal and professional growth. He likens these mindsets to railway tracks built in our minds, guiding how we navigate our lives and influence our stories.

The ship is safest at the shore of the lake, but it is not built for the shores, it is built for the high seas. By the same means a leader is created for crisis. A crisis is what separates boys from men and girls from women. A leader is not meant for good times, but for hard times- It is called a defining moment”

Central to Ivan’s philosophy is the idea of ownership over one’s narrative. He believes that everyone has a unique story, shaped by various experiences and factors, some of which may be beyond their control. “Leadership is getting hold of the pen that is writing your story,” he tells his audience. If individuals do not take charge of their narratives, they risk allowing others to dictate their stories—often with selfish motivations. He echoes Chinua Achebe’s sentiment that “until the lions begin to write their stories, the stories of the hunt will always glorify the hunter,” reminding participants of the importance of sharing their truths.

Kalema with staff outside the hotel conducting drills about leadership. Makerere University College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Staff Retreat, 1st-2nd November 2024, Nican Resort Hotel, Seguku Entebbe Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Kalema with staff outside the hotel conducting drills about leadership.

Referring to story of David and Goliath in the Bible 1samuel 17, Kalema told attendees that the greatest challenge in leadership progress is your immediate territory friends and that every leader should be aware. Success, according to Kalema is 80% showing up. David showed up and overcame Goliath.

As he concluded his session, Kalema  laid out the four levels of leadership that guide personal and communal development: leading oneself, leading relationships, leading teams, and leading organizations or communities. Each level builds upon the last, creating a framework for effective leadership that extends beyond individual success to encompass broader societal impact.

Through his Leadership for Hope program, Ivan Kalema empowers individuals to take ownership of their stories and inspire change in their communities. By fostering a culture of leadership rooted in universal principles, he believes that everyone can contribute to a brighter, more hopeful future.

He described a leader as person who has a vision, the ability to influence, a risk taker, problem solver and decision taker. He emphasized the need for all to uphold good leadership- the sacred trust held on behalf of others. He thus defined;

 “Leadership as the ability to create a story that affects the thoughts, feelings and actions of others” Kalema challenged staff that no matter where they are born, status, rank,etc they can create a story to transform the world. Kalema refers to Martin Luther King and advises that:

If you cannot be the sun, be a star because it is not by design that we all fail. If you cannot be  Vice Chancellor  at least be the best in you department. If you cannot be a forest, be a bush so that rats hide there. If you cannot be a highway, be a path so that those looking for a short cut can pass there. If you cannot be a river, atleast be a stream  so that a woman who cannot afford national water can get the water in this stream. If you cannot be a fridge, be a pot….

Office Etiquette: A Call for Professionalism and Transformation

Dr. Gilbert Gumoshabe advocated for professional conduct in the workplace and emphasized the importance of office etiquette during his training session aimed at fostering professionalism among employees. He reminded participants that while offices are permanent, those who occupy them are often temporary, underscoring the need for individuals to use their positions to drive societal transformation.

Dr. Gumoshabe presents Etiquette on being friendly. Makerere University College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Staff Retreat, 1st-2nd November 2024, Nican Resort Hotel, Seguku Entebbe Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Gumoshabe presents Etiquette on being friendly.

Gumoshabe defined office etiquette as a set of unwritten rules that guide employees in practicing professionalism and politeness, noting that these norms can vary from organization to organization. He explained that respectable office etiquette is crucial for building strong relationships with subordinates, colleagues, and clients, including students and parents, ultimately helping employees advance their careers.

“First impressions matter,” Gumoshabe stated, cautioning that people are often judged more quickly for bad behavior than for good. He outlined several key behaviors essential for maintaining professionalism in the workplace, including effective time management, appropriate dress codes, managing expectations, and being mindful of others.

He encouraged employees to communicate politely and respectfully, reminding them to greet colleagues and respect each other’s workspaces. “Being professional includes maintaining personal boundaries,” he noted, urging attendees to keep personal issues private and to remain focused on their professional responsibilities.

Gumoshabe stressed the significance of punctuality, sharing anecdotes about past mentors known for their reliability. He challenged attendees to consider how often students are left waiting, sometimes for hours, due to poor time management. “Being punctual says a lot about your commitment,” he remarked.

He also advised employees to dress appropriately for their roles, explaining that the impression created in the workplace lasts long after first interactions. “When shopping, consider what you wear; it reflects your professionalism,” he said, encouraging attendees to be intentional about their appearance.

The training emphasized the importance of clear communication regarding job expectations. Gumoshabe encouraged employees to approach their supervisors directly, fostering transparency and minimizing misunderstandings. “Do not let rumors dictate your understanding of your role,” he advised.

Moreover, he urged attendees to avoid gossip and negative talk about colleagues or superiors, as this can create a toxic work environment. Instead, he advocated for maintaining a friendly and respectful demeanor towards all staff members.

A section of staff during Kalema's lesson. Makerere University College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Staff Retreat, 1st-2nd November 2024, Nican Resort Hotel, Seguku Entebbe Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A section of staff during Kalema’s lesson.

Being available and considerate of others in shared workspaces is another crucial aspect of office etiquette highlighted by Gumoshabe. He cautioned against being inconsiderate, such as playing loud music in shared offices or keeping colleagues waiting unnecessarily.

Access to information was also a key topic, with Gumoshabe stressing the importance of confidentiality in the workplace. “Do not share sensitive information outside the office,” he warned, noting that such breaches can lead to serious repercussions.

He concluded his session by highlighting the need for employees to actively engage with colleagues, remember their names, and communicate effectively. “Be a good listener and take the time to understand the issues at hand before responding,” he advised, reinforcing the idea that professionalism in the workplace not only fosters personal success but also contributes to a positive and productive organizational culture.

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Jane Anyango

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Humanities & Social Sciences

Mak Develops New Digital Timetable and Attendance Systems to Enhance Efficiency

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The Quality Assurance Director Dr. Cyprian Misinde (C) interacts with staff after the presentations on 1st November 2024. Makerere University College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Staff Retreat, 1st-2nd November 2024, Nican Resort Hotel, Seguku Entebbe Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

In a significant step towards improving operational efficiency, Makerere University is implementing new systems for digitizing timetables and monitoring student attendance. The initiatives were announced during a recent retreat held by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) at Nican Resort on November 1-2, 2024.

Dr. Cyprian Misinde, the Director of Quality Assurance, outlined the university’s plans for a comprehensive Student Attendance Management System (SAMS), which aims to replace cumbersome manual roll calls with a streamlined digital solution. “The motivation for developing the e-timetable is to streamline processes across the university,” Dr. Misinde stated. “Our strategic plan focuses on digitizing university operations, which we have successfully started with several systems, including financial management and student records.”

Dr. Cyprian Misinde addressing staff on the e-timetable and the biometric system. Makerere University College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Staff Retreat, 1st-2nd November 2024, Nican Resort Hotel, Seguku Entebbe Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Cyprian Misinde addressing staff on the e-timetable and the biometric system.

During the retreat, staff participated in discussions led by the Directorate of Information and Communication Technology Services (DICTS) on e-timetabling and biometrics. Presentations also covered vital topics such as quality assurance and human resource policies. “We are aiming for a more efficient timetable system that helps allocate teaching spaces appropriately and reduces clashes,” Dr. Misinde explained.

The current manual timetabling process has been described as cumbersome, creating challenges in managing lecturer workloads and classroom allocations. “Digital timetabling will eliminate these problems, providing a permanent schedule that minimizes changes,” Dr. Misinde added. This system will also generate reports on classroom usage and teaching loads, facilitating better resource management.

In addition to the e-timetable, the SAMS is currently under pilot testing, aiming to enhance attendance tracking for both students and staff. Dr. Misinde emphasized the importance of monitoring attendance, stating, “Our policy requires students to attend at least 70% of lectures before they can sit for exams. This system will allow us to track attendance digitally and generate reports for quality assurance.”

Mr. Juma Katongole, Principal Information Systems Officer at DICTS, elaborated on the advantages of the e-timetable, which integrates with the existing Academic Management Information System (ACMIS). “The new system allows for central management of timetables, reducing conflicts and ensuring rooms are allocated efficiently,” Katongole noted. “It will support heads of departments while improving the overall timetabling process.”

Makerere University College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Staff Retreat, 1st-2nd November 2024, Nican Resort Hotel, Seguku Entebbe Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Katongole Juma presenting on e-timetable and biometric system.

As for the implementation timeline, Katongole indicated that while functionality has been developed, some colleges are further along than others. “Most colleges have nearly completed their timetabling processes, but we aim to refine the system for wider deployment by next semester,” he said.

Both Dr. Misinde and Katongole acknowledged the unique challenges presented by CHUSS due to its large student and staff population, as well as the diverse programs offered across various disciplines. “Understanding the dynamics within CHUSS is crucial as we implement these systems,” Dr. Misinde remarked. “We are committed to continuous feedback from staff to ensure our systems meet the unique needs of the university.”

Makerere University is poised to enhance its operational efficiency significantly through the introduction of digital systems for timetabling and attendance management, marking a progressive step towards modernizing its academic administration. The ongoing feedback and adaptation process will be essential to address the specific challenges faced by different colleges within the university.

Some of the CHUSS staff at the retreat. Makerere University College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Staff Retreat, 1st-2nd November 2024, Nican Resort Hotel, Seguku Entebbe Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the CHUSS staff at the retreat.

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Jane Anyango

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