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Prof. Noble Banadda Laid to Rest

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Prof. Noble Banadda has been laid to rest at his ancestral home at Lukooge Sempa, Luweero District.

Prof. Banadda succumbed to COVID-19 on 1st July, 2021 in a Kampala hospital. The celebrated professor was buried on Sunday 4th July 2021 and his funeral service relayed to hundreds of mourners within Uganda and the diaspora via zoom.

Banadda’s sendoff was attended by representatives from Government, Makerere University, Uganda Petroleum Authority, different educational, religious, research institutions, family members, friends, old boys and girls among others.

A member of the SDA clergy hands over a bible to one of Prof. Banadda's children
A member of the SDA clergy hands over a bible to one of Prof. Banadda’s children

The service was performed by the Seventh Day Adventist Church of Uganda (SDA) led by Pastor George William from Lukooge parish assisted by Pastor Maber Paul from Katikamu SDA Secondary School, Pastor Sonko Fred and Pastor John Ssempa.

Pastor George described the demise of Prof. Banadda as a great loss to academia, the country, the church and family.

He however said, death is not an end, imploring  the aggrieved to hold onto Jesus Christ , who conquered death, the only comforter and one that will come again to judge the living and the dead.

In his sermon the pastor told mourners that when the Messiah comes, every sad situation,  challenges and predicaments will be no more. Citing Isaiah 61.1, the pastor said at his coming, the Messiah will proclaim God’s freedom to those that are bound and give joy to the grieving

He said whereas the law demands that we die, thanks to the Messiah as written in John 3:16, whoever believes in Him shall have eternal life.

Family members lay their wreath on Prof. Banadda's casket
Family members lay their wreath on Prof. Banadda’s casket

Paying their last respects, mourners described Banadda as not just an ordinary professor, but  a researcher, innovator, generous, a wonderful friend, humble, dependable and dedicated worker, a legend and true genius of the times.

Speaking on behalf of Makerere University, the Dean School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering Dr. Abel Atukwase conveyed apologies on behalf of the Principal and Vice Chancellor who were not able to make it to the send-off due to earlier scheduled  commitments.

Dr. Atukwase delivered a message of condolence from the college and the school saying,  the university had earlier held a church service on 2nd July 2021 in honor of Prof. Banadda’s contribution to the university adding that, the Vice Chancellor’s condolence message had been circulated on different social media platforms.

 Dr. Atukwase said the University was greatly saddened by the passing on of Prof. Banadda as a colleague, a mentor and a teacher.

Banadda, the Dean said, joined the university as a part time lecturer in the then Department of Food Science and Technology in 2006 and later in 2011 he was appointed full lecturer and quickly rose through the ranks. He was promoted to full professor under the fast track promotion in 2012 given his robust research profile.

“He served diligently as a Professor of Agricultural and Bio systems engineering, teaching and conducting research and secondly as the Head of Department and, by the time of his death, he was left with two months to the end of his second term as Head in August 2021.

Dr. Beatrice Banadda pays her last respects to her husband.
Dr. Beatrice Banadda pays her last respects to her husband.

He served as member of the University Senate and represented the School on different national and international fora. He was a prolific researcher and one who won many accolades that led to the growth of the school.

He supported and mentored staff and students, sourced for scholarships, supervised students and provided guidance,” Dr. Atukwase said.

He pledged that the School and the University would work hard to continue with Prof. Banadda’s legacy of research excellence given that he worked with a strong dedicated team of staff and students.

He encourage the bereaved family with Psalm 18:2 to hold onto the Lord as the fortress and the rock in whom they should take refuge.

The President SDA in Uganda Dr. Matte Daniel told mourners that in the midst of the heavy hearts due to this bereavement, they should turn to Jesus as the only hope in this world.

“We share our heartfelt condolence for the loss of a beloved father, son, dependable worker and very dedicated citizen of Uganda and member of the University and Church.

We have been cheated of a humble, passionate, respectful, honest and committed man. Death is evil and cruel and the biggest enemy of the human race.

Pallbearers carry Prof. Banadda's casket to his final resting place in Lukooge Sempa Luweero District.
Pallbearers carry Prof. Banadda’s casket to his final resting place in Lukooge Sempa Luweero District.

Before death we are all vulnerable and helpless. The only logical and sensible lesson is that man needs God”, Dr. Matte stated.

Ernest Rubondo from the Petroleum Authority of Uganda said, Banadda was a very responsible man who served as Board Member on the technical, governance and audit committee of the oil and gas sector.

Rubondo said Banadda was nominated by the President and had been the Board Member that oversaw supervision of the Executive Director and management.

“He gave a lot of advice to the Authority, was critical by virtue of being an academician and very inquisitive in the quest to learn. He was full of strength, innovative and a very cheerful and humble person,

His contribution to Uganda’s gas and oil sector specifically to the Authority’s mandate will be missed. His commitment has enriched the authority.

The notable aspects during his service include his contribution to the preparation of the country’s report 2020.

He offered technical insights in the development of the state-of-the-art petroleum data center to handle the country’s data and information”, Rubondo remarked.

Rubondo said it will be difficult to replace him in many roles and responsibilities he has been handling adding that, his career growth to full professor at the age of 37 and the Papal Award were significant reflections.

He said God takes good people early and it is only human that the bereaved accepted his death as written in Romans:8:28.

Mrs. Dr. Beatrice Banadda supported by relatives and surrounded by her children at Prof. Banadda's graveside.
Mrs. Dr. Beatrice Banadda supported by relatives and surrounded by her children at Prof. Banadda’s graveside.

Speaking on behalf of the deceased friends, Moses Mayanja also Prof. Banaddas Best man said Prof. Banadda was an inspirational and trustworthy friend.

“We first met in 1988 at Bugema Secondary School and even when we separated after senior four, he kept in touch.  I dropped from the academic line to join business but he inspired me until I went back to school for a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and later did a Masters.

Banadda had a rare trait of trust and commitment. He has served his family, church, community and the nation in different capacities and in Munyonyo where he lived, he was engaged in the welfare of members.  I have lost a friend with whom we shared a lot”, Mayanja said.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Dr. Jimmy Kitumba said they had lost a pillar in the clan, a brother, friend, a father who was also the heir to his father.

“I have lost a brother, a generous, supportive and a uniting factor” Dr. Kitumba said.

Dr. Kitumba thanked Makerere University, the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, the various institutions, friends and relatives for the physical, financial and moral support accorded during Banadda’s hospitalization  and clearance of the medical bills.

Prof. Banadda is survived by wife Dr. Beatrice Namaganda Banadda, and three children Daniel Mayombwe Banadda,  David Lutaaya Banadda and Joy Deborah Nalutaaya Banadda.

The pallbearers lower Prof. Banadda's remains into the grave.
The pallbearers lower Prof. Banadda’s remains into the grave.

In their tribute read for them, the children described their father as Papa who was loving, caring and one that was very much interested in knowing what they would like to become in future.

“…Father was a very hard working man and loved the family. He always asked us what we want to be and told us to look at him as an example. He told us that life is full of challenges but it is fair if you attain an education. Now, it is up to us to write a chapter in our lives.

My mother is special and hardworking and she has never got enough sleep. This time, she is going to be working very hard and alone for our life,” parts of the children’s tribute read.

The widow Dr. Beatrice Namaganda Banadda said the late developed complications on 29th May 2021, three days after receiving his second jab of the COVID-19 vaccine on 26th May 2021 and started complaining of a sore throat, body weakness, sweating and breathing problems. These led to his hospitalisation in the ICU at Case hospital where he battled the disease for about four weeks until 1st July when he passed on.

Mrs. Banadda thanked all for standing by the family during the difficult times.

“Noble was my best friend and husband, he was the best father, he was the best everything he did for his family

He provided for everything. Everything I wanted, he would provide more. I don’t know where to go from here being that he has been everything. You let me fly and then my wings are cut, I don’t know.

Noble I really thank you for everything you did. I really hope and pray that God receives you in his boardroom and hope you can rest in real peace”, Dr. Beatrice Banadda bid farewell to her husband.

May the Almighty God strengthen Beatrice, the children and entire family.

Farewell Prof. Noble Banadda, Rest in Peace.

Prof. Noble Banadda's remains in his final resting place, Lukooge Sempa, Luweero District.
Prof. Noble Banadda’s remains in his final resting place, Lukooge Sempa, Luweero District.

Compiled by;

Jane Anyango,
Principal Communication Officer, CAES

Photography Courtesy of Landmark Media

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General

Re-Advert: Position of Second Deputy Vice Chancellor

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Mak Main Building

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:

a)     Assist the Vice Chancellor in performance of his or her functions and in that regard shall oversee the finances and administration of the University;

b)     Be responsible for the Planning and Development of the University and,

c)      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

a)     Provide leadership in Strategic planning and governance, leadership and administrative experience, Human resource and performance Management, Stakeholder engagement and collaboration.

b)     Provide leadership in preparation and implementation of the University’s recurrent and capital budgets.

c)      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.

d)     Oversee income and expenditure of all income generating units of the University.

e)     Coordinate the production of the University-wide Financial Reports by Colleges and Units.

f)      Management of human resources in the University.

g)     Oversee the management of University Estates and Assets.

7. CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION

a)     Hold a PhD or any other academic doctorate.

b)     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.

c)      Be a Ugandan citizen within the age bracket of 40 to 65 years at the time of application.

7.1 Academic Qualifications

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

b)     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.

c)      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

a)     Experience in leading large administrative teams at the level of dean or higher, demonstrating efficiency and productivity.

b)     Proven record in developing and executing strategic plans, aligning financial and administrative objectives with institutional goals.

c)      Evidence of developing and implementing financial policies that have improved financial efficiency, transparency, and risk management.

d)     Evidence of implementing organisational restructuring or process improvements to ensure operational efficiency.

e)     Ability to develop and implement institutional policies, ensuring compliance with national higher education and financial regulations.

7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience

a)     Minimum 5 years of senior academic leadership in a recognized institution comparable with that of Makerere University, as accepted by Senate.

b)     Demonstrated    experience    in    managing    budgets    exceeding    UGX 500,000,000=, ensuring financial sustainability and accountability.

c)     Proven ability to mobilize resources, secure grants, and attract external funding to support institutional growth.

d)     Experience in conducting financial forecasting, cost control measures, and investment strategies to optimize institutional resources.

e)     Track record of leading financial audits and compliance assessments in alignment with national and international financial regulations.

f)      Experience in handling procurement, asset management, and infrastructure development, ensuring transparency and value for money.

7.4    Human Resource and Performance Management

a)    Track record of leading workforce planning, recruitment, and talent development strategies, ensuring a high-performance institutional culture.

b)     Experience in implementing performance-based appraisal systems, leading to improved staff efficiency and accountability.

c)      Proven ability to foster industrial harmony, resolving labour disputes and improving employer-employee relations.

7.5    Infrastructure Development and Resource Optimization

a)     Experience in overseeing capital development projects, ensuring timely delivery and cost efficiency.

b)     Track record of overseeing the maintenance and expansion of university facilities, enhancing institutional infrastructure.

c) Proven ability to negotiate and manage contracts for outsourced services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality standards.

7.6 Digital Transformation and ICT Integration

a) Experience in integrating ICT solutions in financial and administrative operations, improving service delivery and efficiency.

b) Evidence steering the automation of financial, procurement, and HR systems, reducing paperwork and improving real-time decision making.

c) Proven ability to implement cybersecurity measures that safeguard institutional financial and administrative data.

7.7 Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

a) Demonstrated experience in building partnerships with government agencies, donors, private sector investors, and international organizations to enhance institutional funding.

b) Proven ability to engage faculty, students, and staff in financial decision-making, ensuring transparency and inclusivity.

c) Experience in negotiating contracts, partnerships, and collaborations that have led to financial and administrative growth.

7.8 Personal Attributes

a) High level of integrity, transparency, and ethical leadership, with a record of financial prudence.

b) Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, backed by evidence of successfully managing complex financial and administrative challenges.

c) Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement.

d) 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) A signed letter of application;

b) A vision statement;

c) Curriculum Vitae with contact details signed and dated by the applicant;

d) Copies of required minimum number of publications;

e) Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates;

f) Three (3) letters of recommendation;

g) 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;

h) A copy of the applicant’s National Identity Card or passport;

i) A copy of the last clearance from the Inspector General of Government or other equivalent national body;

j) 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 Monday 14th April, 2025;

k) 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.

(a) 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
6TH Floor, ROOM 602, SENATE BUILDING
P. O. BOX 7062, KAMPALA, UGANDA

(b) Electronic media (e-mail) applications should have all the above documents scanned and emailed to search.dvcfa[at]mak.ac.ug by 5.00 pm East African Standard Time on Monday 14th April, 2025.

Please note that:

(a) Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date and time

will not be considered.

(b) Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.

For more Information and inquiries:
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. Buyinza Mukadasi (PhD)
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

Mak Editor

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General

RE-Advert: Position of First Deputy Vice Chancellor

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Front View of the reconstructed Main Building, Makerere University. Date Taken 8th November 2024. 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 First Deputy Vice-Chancellor. The First Deputy Vice Chancellor must possess a strong background in academic leadership, teaching, research, and strategic institutional management.

1. POSITION: FIRST DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR

2. SALARY SCALE: PU2

3: DUTY STATION: MAKERERE UNIVERSITY

4. ROLE

The First Deputy Vice-Chancellor will report to the Vice–Chancellor and shall:

  1. Assist the Vice Chancellor in performance of his or her functions and in that regard be responsible for the Academic affairs of the University
  2. In the absence of the Vice-Chancellor, perform the functions of the Vice-Chancellor and,
  3. Perform such other functions that may be delegated to him or her by the Vice Chancellor or assigned by the University Council.

5. PURPOSE OF THE JOB

To provide leadership and Coordination of academic and academic research matters to ensure effective and efficient implementation of policies, teaching and research programmes.

6. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Initiate, obtain approval of policies, plans and programmes that will enhance the academic and professional excellence of the University.
  2. Initiate, coordinate curriculum development and review for all courses offered at the University.
  3. Ensure that all examinations are set and marked in accordance with established Regulations.
  4. Coordinate the appointment of external examiners.
  5. Oversee the selection and admission of qualified students.
  6. Oversee the development of research programmes by liaising with Principals of Colleges/Deans of Schools and submit them to Senate and Council for approval.

7. CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION

  1. Hold a PhD or any other academic doctorate.
  2. Be at the rank of associate or full professor level in an institution whose academic ranking is comparable with that of Makerere University as accepted by Senate.
  3. Be a Ugandan citizen within the age bracket of 40 to 65 years at the time of application.

7.1 Academic Qualifications

  1. Earned a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in a relevant discipline.
  2. Minimum 5 years of progressive academic experience, including teaching, research, and academic administration at the level of dean of a school or higher.
  3. At least 20 peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals indexed in Scopus, Web of Science, or equivalent databases.
  4. Supervised at least ten (10) postgraduate students (Masters and PhD) to completion and graduation; at least three of these students must have been at the level of PhD.

7.2 Strategic Planning & Governance

  1. Evidence of having served or participated in university-level strategic planning processes including, membership to strategic planning committees and contribution to policy development and institutional growth.
  2. At least five years of demonstrated experience in academic programme accreditation processes contributing to the securing approvals from the relevant national or international regulatory bodies.
  3. Demonstrated evidence in leading at least one (1) higher education ICT integration initiative, improving online learning, digital governance, or student information systems or the development of at least one online course curriculum.

7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience

  1. A minimum of 5 years of senior academic leadership in a recognized institution comparable to that of Makerere University, as accepted by the Senate, at the level of Dean of a School or higher.
  2. Participated in the development and implementation of at least two (2) academic policies improving quality assurance, curriculum development, or institutional governance.
  3. Demonstrated ability to lead a school or college, ensuring optimal performance and professional development of members.
  4. Proven track record of mentoring at least 10 faculty members toward career progression and research output, including co-teaching, publication, and capacity development in areas of teaching and training, grants, research and innovations.
  5. Participated in at least three (3) university committees or initiatives on academic policy development, research and publications, or student affairs.
  6. Participation in mediation of at least five (5) student or faculty grievances, ensuring fair and transparent resolutions.

7.4 Teaching, Learning & Curriculum Development

  1. Led or contributed to the development of at least five (5) accredited academic programmes or curricula at undergraduate and postgraduate level.
  2. Participated in the Designing and conducting at least 10 faculty development workshops focused on pedagogy, research methodologies, or curriculum advancement.

7.5 Research & Innovation

  1. Secured at least $200,000 in competitive research grants from national or international funding agencies.
  2. Established or managed at least one (1) research centre, or college wide research programme or industry-academic partnerships.
  3. Published a minimum of five (5) books, or 5 book chapters, or patents (separate from the papers in peer reviewed journals), contributing to knowledge production in the discipline.
  4. Organized at least three (3) international or national research conferences, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.

7.6 Financial & Resource Management

  1. Successfully managed academic budgets exceeding UGX 500,000,000= in a leadership role.
  2. Led at least two (2) faculty resource mobilisation initiatives, increasing funding for research, scholarships, or infrastructure.
  3. Secured at least one (1) international academic partnership to enhance funding, student exchange, or faculty development.
  4. Developed and executed at least three (3) cost-cutting strategies, optimising institutional resources without compromising academic quality.

7.7 Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

  1. Built at least five (5) partnerships with government agencies, private sector stakeholders, or international academic institutions.
  2. Successfully led at least two (2) community engagement or outreach programmes, strengthening university-industry relations.
  3. Served on or contributed to at least three (3) University, national, or international education policy boards, shaping higher education discourse.

7.8 Personal Attributes

  1. Proven record of upholding institutional integrity, with no record of financial mismanagement or ethical violations.
  2. Demonstrated decision-making and problem-solving skills, having led at least five (5) crisis resolution initiatives.
  3. Recognized for academic leadership excellence, receiving at least one (1 ) award or recognition for contributions to higher education.

8. REMUNERATION

An attractive remuneration package that is in accordance with Makerere University terms and conditions of service.

9. TENURE

The First Deputy Vice Chancellor shall hold office for a period of five years and shall be eligible for re- appointment for one more term.

10. METHOD OF APPLICATION

Interested applicants are invited to submit their application letters. The following documents shall comprise a complete application:

  1. A signed letter of application;
  2. A vision statement;
  3. Curriculum Vitae with contact details signed and dated by the applicant;
  4. Copies of required minimum number of publications;
  5. Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates.
  6. Three (3) letters of recommendation;
  7. Copies of letters of appointment to leadership positions at the level of Dean of a School in a national accredited university or other academic institution;
  8. A copy of the applicant’s National Identity Card or passport;
  9. A copy of the last clearance from the Inspector General of Government or other equivalent national body.
  10. Referees should be advised to send confidential reference letters, addressed to the Chairperson Search Committee for the Position of First Deputy Vice Chancellor and delivered directly to the address below by 5:00 pm on Monday 14th April, 2025.
  11. The references should cover the following areas: the applicant’s academic credential, experience, leadership, managerial and administrative skills and personal integrity.

Both Hardcopy and Electronic (Email) applications shall be accepted.

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

SECRETARY SEARCH COMMITTEE
THE ACADEMIC REGISTRAR
MAKERERE UNIVERSITY
6TH Floor, ROOM 602, SENATE BUILDING
P.O.BOX 7062, KAMPALA, UGANDA

b) Electronic media (e-mail) applications should have all the above documents scanned and emailed to search.dvcaa@mak.ac.ug by 5.00 pm East African Standard Time on Monday 14th April, 2025.

Please note that:

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

b) Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.

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

Mak Editor

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Office of the Academic Registrar Lauded for Groundbreaking Achievements In Digitalization

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Mr. Charles Ssentongo (5th Left), together with Office of the Academic Registrar staff members are joined by Dr. Dickson Kalungi (4th Right) and MUST Registrars for a group photo in front of the Senate Building on 25th March 2025.

By Gerald Ochwo

On 25th March 2025, a delegation of Registrars from Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) undertook a benchmarking exercise at Makerere University, with a specific focus on the latter’s pioneering efforts in academic records digitalization. The delegation, led by Dr. Dickson Kalungi, Ag. Deputy Academic Registrar was received by Mr. Charles Ssentongo, Deputy Academic Registrar in charge of Admissions and Records Division, who represented the Academic Registrar (AR), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi.

The visit was prompted by Makerere University‘s trailblazing achievements in digitalizing academic records, as exemplified by the Digitalization of Academic Records Project (DARP). This initiative has been instrumental in creating a centralized, digital one stop repository of all University’s academic records, thereby enhancing the efficiency, accuracy, and security of academic records management.

In his welcoming remarks, Mr. Ssentongo conveyed the Academic Registrar’s message and highlighted Makerere University‘s efforts to digitalize all its processes and records. He further noted that the university is intentional about creating a digital ecosystem that makes academic records retrieval easy and efficient.

As a university, we are now intentional with the digitalization of all our processes including, digitization of our manual records that date as way back as the inception of Makerere University. Currently, the DARP project as gone as far as creating a one stop center for both Academic document verification and certification, whereby our former graduates, will only need to access the online verification and certification portal and submit their documents without necessarily having to travel many physical distances to Makerere University” Mr. Ssentongo remarked.

Registrars from MAK and MUST pose for a group photo after the meeting. Left is article author Gerald Ochwo.
Registrars from MAK and MUST pose for a group photo after the meeting. Left is article author Gerald Ochwo.

In his appreciation remarks, the MUST head of delegation, Dr. Dickson Kalungi, thanked the Academic Registrar for honoring their request to come and learn from the best practices that exist at Makerere University and particularly commended the Department for the great steps and strides made in pioneering modern Academic records storage management systems.

“I want to sincerely thank the Office of the Academic Registrar for sparing time and organizing this meeting. As a University, we have embarked on a transformative change drive whereby we intend to automate all our registry processes including, the management of Academic Records. The DARP project at Makerere University, has been one project where we draw a number of lessons and we are eager to go and implement some of the best practices we have observed here today”

Conclusion

The benchmarking exercise undertaken by Mbarara University of Science and Technology demonstrates the significance of Makerere University and particularly, the Office of the Academic Registrar’s achievements in academic records digitalization. The DARP project serves as a model for other institutions to follow, highlighting the importance of investing in digital solutions to enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and security of academic records management. It further demonstrates the university’s commitment to sharing knowledge and best practices with other institutions. Makerere University‘s efforts in digitalizing academic records have set a high standard for other universities to emulate, and the DARP project is a shining example of innovation and excellence in academic records management.

Gerald Ochwo is the Liaison Officer, Office of the Academic Registrar

Mak Editor

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