The Makerere University Council Chairperson represented by the Chairperson Finance, Planning, Administration and Investment Committee (FPAIC) of Council-Mr. Bruce Balaba Kabaasa has called upon Unit heads to ensure a consultative and inclusive budgeting process that is aligned to the objectives of the Third National Development Plan (NDPIII) and Makerere University Strategic Plan (2020-2030). The call was made during the Annual Budget Conference held virtually on 14th October 2021.
“It is my pleasure to preside over the opening of the Makerere University Budget Conference 2021, for the financial year 2022/2023. I wish to thank the Chairperson of Council Mrs. Lorna Magara who delegated me to perform this duty on her behalf” remarked Mr. Kabaasa.
He noted that the Higher Education sector, just like many other sectors, has been severely disrupted by measures aimed at controlling the spread of COVID-19 and has as a result suffered from shortfalls in revenue.
“It turns out that we must rethink the methodologies for pursuing our set goals because the new normal demands an urgent shift from business as usual and therefore, the budget being the principal tool for executing the new normal must shift” he pointed out.
The Chair FPAIC added that this year’s budgeting process was more critical than ever before, calling for a balance between realizing the goals and targets of the University Strategic Plan, and ensuring that the planned activities are consistent with operational dynamics occasioned by COVID-19.
He therefore urged the College Principals and Administrative Unit heads to align their budgets to the Budget Call Circular issued by the University Secretary as well as the University Strategic Plan and NDPIII.
“I wish to emphasise that the budgeting must be consultative and inclusive. Consultations must go beyond conferences such as the one we are having today. All stakeholders in given budgeting units must have a chance to contribute towards setting the budget priorities and allocation of funds to those priorities in the respective units” Mr. Kabaasa highlighted.
The Chair FPAIC further requested the budgeting units to involve the relevant Council Committees in the budgeting process right from the onset, as a means of ensuring adherence to set guidelines. He concluded by urging the cost centres to go beyond receiving technical guidance from the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) and identify peculiarities within their respective units that respond to the gender and equity requirement and qualify them so as to fit within the regulations while meeting their unique needs.
In her remarks, the Acting Vice Chancellor and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance & Administration) Dr. Josephine Nabukenya thanked all participants for sparing time to congregate and deliberate on how best to deliver a good budget based on the proposed roadmap. The roadmap for the budget process for Financial Year 2022/2023 is highlighted below.
14th October 2021 – Stakeholders’ Budget Conference and Sensitisation on the new Budget structure aligned to NDPIII
14th October 2021 – Communication of the Budget Call Circular and issue of Ceilings to all the Units
19th October 2021 – Budget Units/Cost Centres Submit their Draft Budgets
20th October 2021 – Consolidation of University Budget
22nd and 23rd October 2021 – The University Budget Committee Retreat
25th October 2021 – The University Central Management Finance Committee Approval
26th October 2021 – The University Central Management Committee Approval
28th October 2021 – The Finance, Planning, Administration and Investment Committee (FPAIC) of Council Approval
5th November 2021 – University Council Approval
10th November 2021 – Submission of the Budget Framework Paper and the Consolidated Draft Budget 2022/2023 to the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED).
“We have had several meetings in preparation to fulfill this cycle and so far we seem to be progressing very well. We are extremely grateful to the cost centre heads, who have put in time to ensure that they follow the almanac for producing this budget in time” remarked Dr. Nabukenya.
She extended sincere thanks to the Offices of the University Secretary and University Bursar as well as the Planning and Development Unit for all preparations leading up to the Budget Conference. The Acting Vice Chancellor equally acknowledged and thanked the Colleges and Administrative Units that had already made input into the budgeting process, and urged others to make theirs too.
“May I request through this conference that everybody who is supposed to provide input to have this budget process executed successfully do their part and in a timely manner” said the Acting Vice Chancellor.
Earlier while introducing the budget process, the University Secretary (US) Mr. Yusuf Kiranda shared that the University had since receiving the Budget Call Circular from MoFPED on 15th September been making internal preparations, which included sourcing for the figures that form the basis for budgeting.
“These include projection of student numbers, staffing figures, infrastructure requirements, revenue from various sources including tuition and others, which together guide us on how we will budget” he explained.
The US noted that the conference was organized in compliance with the requirement of Section 9 (i) of the Public Finance Management Act 2015 (as amended), which requires every accounting officer in consultation with relevant stakeholders, to prepare a budget framework paper for the vote, taking into account consideration of balanced development as well as gender and equity responsiveness.
Referring to the Budget Call Circular received from MoFPED, Mr. Kiranda shared the theme for FY 2022/2023 as “Industrialisation for Inclusive Growth, Employment and Wealth Creation”. He also mentioned the budget strategy and priority interventions for the Government of Uganda in FY 2022/2023 as;
To mitigate the COVID19 impact on business activity and livelihoods to support the recovery of the economy back to normality by increasing access to capital, revamping health infrastructure and health systems; reducing vulnerabilities and ensuring access to education.
To speed up recovery of the economy; to sustain economic growth for socioeconomic transformation through re-prioritizing and delivering impactful investments and restructuring resources/budget to areas with more value for money.
To sustain macro-economic stability, peace and security as key foundations for growth and development by keeping exchange rate stability, inflation control, maintaining an adequate reserve of forex; and mitigating emerging internal and external security threats.
Using the Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) as an example, the US noted that the University can tailor its research to answer to some of the priorities that have clearly defined in the National Budget Strategy 2022/2023.
Presenting the New Budget Structure FY 2022/2023 and implications for budgeting Units, Mr. Kabuye Matia, the Acting Manager Planning and Development informed the conference that the Education Sector has now been designated as a sub-programme under the Human Capital Development programme.
“In the new budget structure, all colleges are going to have three budget outputs namely: teaching and training; research, innovations and technology transfer; and community outreach. When it comes to the support services sub-sub-programme, the new budget structure includes: governance, which entails business of Council and Senate with their sub-committees; general administration and support; academic affairs; library services; contributions to research and international organizations; ICT/e-learning; research, consultancy and publications; students welfare,” explained Mr. Kabuye.
He also noted that under the new normal, emphasis should also be put on how cost centres are to support safe delivery of services. “Every vote should assign a specific department to coordinate the two Government-funded projects i.e. Retooling and Infrastructure Projects.”
The University Bursar, Mr. Evarist Bainomugisha who presented the Budget Performance FY 2019/2020 shared that the University received 98.9% of its approved budget of UGX 363.736 Billion. The proportionate distribution of the University budget expenditure was Wage 58%, Non-wage 38% and Development 4%.
“Collections for last financial year were UGX 69.6 Billion, which was 72% of the budget, and the shortfall is attributed to COVID-19 and the closure of the University resulting in some of the students not paying tuition” explained the Bursar.
In terms of Retooling and Infrastructure Projects, the University completed renovations on the Senate Building, Main Library, Mathematics Building and University Hospital. Ongoing development works include; partitioning of Central Teaching Facility 1, School of Women and Gender Studies Building, the Indoor Stadium, School of Public Health, Department of Dentistry, School of Law, among others.
Delivering the closing remarks, the Conference Programme Manager and Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences, Dr. Eria Hisali thanked participants for sparing time to attend the conference. He urged unit heads to stick to the strategic direction of the University and NDPIII as they finalise the budgeting process.
“It is encouraging to note that all the units derived their own strategic plans from the University Strategic Plan. I wish to assure the Chairperson of Council that we will comply with your guidance as well as the requirements stipulated in the Budget Strategy Paper issued by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development” he concluded.
Dear Students; Class of 2025/2026 I am very delighted to welcome you to Makerere University. You are joining a Premier University and I hope you all are excited to start your new academic journey. We would like to first congratulate all of you for successfully overcoming the many challenges you have all faced, from completing high school to choosing a university and a study program and the extensive delays in the admission process you experienced.
As you are about to begin one of the most exciting times in your life, you should acknowledge and appreciate your efforts and achievements so far. I am aware that as a fresher, you are filled with hope and ambition, and I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the road that has brought you here. I know that you have worked hard and overcome many obstacles to reach this point. So, take a moment to savor this achievement and be proud of yourselves.
Now, as you step into the next phase of your lives, I want to remind you that this is a time of growth and exploration. You will face new challenges, make new friends, and gain experiences that will shape you into the person you will become. This is the time to embrace new opportunities, learn from your mistakes, and never stop growing.
I also want to emphasise the importance of hard work, determination, and resilience. These are the qualities that will help you overcome any obstacle and succeed in your endeavors. Remember to keep your focus on your goals and work towards them with determination. I encourage you to approach your studies with a growth mindset. This means that you believe that your abilities can be developed through hard work and perseverance. Remember that failure is not the end, but rather an opportunity to learn and grow.
Professor Buyinza Mukadasi (PhD) Academic Registrar
Makerere University, through the Makerere University Convocation (MUC), has hosted the first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit on Tuesday, 2nd September 2025. The historic event brought together alumni, Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), and stakeholders in a distinguished assembly aimed at re-imagining the university’s role in national and continental transformation.
The Convocation, which serves as a critical forum for foresight and life-transformational dialogue, unveiled five transformative points carefully crafted to transform Makerere from a symbolic “ivory tower” into an “impact tower” that influences the country and the world more than ever before.
Government Endorsement and Call to Action
The Chief Guest, Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, was represented at the event by the 3rd Deputy Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga. She conveyed warm greetings from H.E. the President of Uganda, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister.
She commended the Convocation for convening under the summit under a significant and timely theme: “Exploring the Opportunities for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Value Creation for Accelerated Socio-Economic Integration and Development of Sub-Saharan Africa.”
Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga.
She described the summit as not just a gathering but a journey and a call to action, urging academia, industry, and government to align efforts with Uganda’s and Africa’s transformation priorities.
Framing her remarks around the World Bank’s guiding principles—Trust, Humility, Inclusion, Collaboration, and Knowledge—she explained:
“Trust must be built between government, academia, and business… the gathering reflects the trust in CEOs and investors to walk this journey together.”
“Humility requires listening and learning, recognizing that no single institution has all the answers.”
“Inclusion reminds us that no youth, woman, or marginalized group should be left behind in transformation.”
“Collaboration is the currency of progress, necessary for solving complex challenges across sectors.”
“Knowledge remains our greatest asset, with Makerere University demonstrating its importance in moving from ivory towers to communities to transform lives.”
Current and Former Guild Leaders including Mr. Wilbrod Owor (CEO, Uganda Bankers Association) pose for a group photo with dignitaries.
She then unveiled a “massive transformation purpose”, commissioning five working teams led by CEOs and investors. The teams, nominated lead persons, and their respective objectives included:
From Ivory Tower to Impact Tower – Dr. Patricia Ojangole (UDB) with Patrick Ayota (NSSF), translating research into market-ready innovations.
Diaspora Dividend vs Brain Drain – Jennifer Bamuturaki (Uganda Airlines) with Michael Mugabi (Housing Finance Bank), harnessing diaspora capital, skills, and mentorship.
Intergenerational Knowledge Bridges – Fabian Kasi (Centenary Bank) with Ajay Kumar (Quality Chemicals), institutionalizing mentorship and reverse mentorship.
Climate and Infrastructure Leadership – Proscovia Nabbanja (UNOC) with Silver Mugisha (NWSC), anchoring research in energy security, green transition, and infrastructure.
Pan-African Digital and AI Advantage – Sylvia Mulinge (MTN Uganda) with Mumba Kalifungwa (Stanbic Bank), positioning Makerere as Africa’s digital and AI hub.
She pledged full government support, noting that the teams would convene in the Office of the President. “This summit is not ceremonial but a covenant,” she stressed.
The Minister’s Reflection
Hon. Balaam Barugahara, State Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development in charge of Children and Youth Affairs, emphasized that the summit was not a party but a process of transformation.
Hon. Balaam Barugahara gestures.
Drawing from personal experience, he recalled joining Makerere in 2000 and completing his degree in seven years due to balancing work, hustling for fees, and studying. He praised the university’s role in shaping his success and highlighted recent developments such as the renovation of Mary Stuart Hall and revamping the Main and Western gates, as milestones that have enhanced Makerere’s image. He equally applauded the curbing of staff and student unrest.
He noted that the summit aimed to facilitate networking, mentorship, career opportunities, and university development, signalling collective commitment to Uganda’s transformation.
Council’s Vision: A Legacy Re-imagined
Representing Makerere University Council Chairperson Ms. Lorna Magara, Prof. Sarah Ssali described the summit as a “historic alumni CEO investor round table” and a reaffirmation of Makerere’s role in Africa’s development. She described the university as a “cradle of leadership, innovation and resilience”, noting that the gathering’s objectives included fostering partnerships, showcasing research, launching a fundraising drive, and strengthening alumni engagement. Prof. Ssali emphasized that alumni relations must go beyond occasional financial contributions during events, to continuous communication and genuine relationships. “This summit marks the start of a journey, not just an isolated event,” she reechoed.
Prof. Sarah Ssali.
Vice Chancellor on Unlocking Makerere’s Potential
Reflecting on the theme of his bid for the Office of Vice Chancellor, “Unlocking the Potential of Makerere University,” Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe noted that while many only celebrate the absence of strikes, behind the calmness is a vibrant transformation.
He highlighted Makerere’s alumni strength, with over 20,000 CEOs globally, and underscored their contributions to Uganda’s economy, governance, health, sports, and research. “What would Uganda do without Makerere?” he pondered. Prof. Nawangwe quickly added that the moment was ripe for Makerere to collaborate more with diaspora alumni so as to tap into fast-evolving niches such as blockchain.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.
Convocation’s Strategic Role
MUC Chairperson CPA George Mugabi Turyamureeba outlined the Convocation’s mission to support the university’s growth and well-being. He highlighted innovations such as the Convocation House, the annual luncheon for first-class graduates and their parents, mentorship programs, and the MUC SACCO as initiatives that his team had established and promoted during the term so far. The Chairperson nevertheless urged the CEOs present to enable the Convocation have greater impact collaborating on existing as well as envisaged projects such as the Convocation Innovation Centre.
CPA George Turyamureeba.
Adding her voice, Vice Chairperson Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto urged participants—described as “movers and shakers” of Uganda’s economy—to ensure that their decisions today would be celebrated by future generations.
CPA George Turyamureeba (Right) and Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto (2nd Right) and members of the Convocation Team.
Keynote Address: The Journey’s Just Began
In his keynote, Dr. Peter Kimbowa, Founder and Board Chair of the CEO Summit and Makerere alumnus, congratulated his alma mater on the initiative and reaffirmed the Convocation’s strategic role.
He emphasized that the Round Table Summit should not be seen as a one-time event but as an ongoing journey, echoing American Football Player Jalen Hurts’ mantra: “There’s no arrival. Only the journey.” Dr. Kimbowa defined the Convocation as a community of leaders, alumni, and faculty united by heritage and vision. He described it as a bridge connecting:
The past to the future,
Business and industry to academia, and
Learning to market needs.
Dr. Peter Kimbowa.
He stressed that the Convocation’s ultimate goal was to transform Makerere into a self-sustaining engine of innovation, opportunity, and national transformation. Drawing on corporate insights, he challenged participants to always ask “what is the next opportunity?” and warned against complacency. He unpacked the massive transformation purpose structured around five working teams which MUC has developed, whereby corporate chief executives from Uganda are called upon to lead collaboration with the university. He highlighted the importance of mobilizing talent to connect with successful Ugandan alumni, underscoring the need for local CEOs to harness talent in the diaspora. He emphasized deliberate action, mobilization of global alumni talent, and collaboration between CEOs and the university to sustain transformation
Members of Management from Left to Right: Mr. Paul Agaba-Procurement and Disposal Unit, Mr. Simon Kizito-Deputy University Secretary, Prof. Robert Wamala-Director Research Innovations and Partnerships, and Prof. Ruth Nalumaga-University Librarian.
Panel Discussions and Triple Helix Framework
The day’s panel discussion featured Mr. Samuel Mwogeza (Executive Director, Stanbic Bank), Mr. Peter Sibukule (Headmaster, Busoga College Mwiri), Mr. Clovice Bright Irumba (Petroleum Authority of Uganda), and Ms. Grace Cherotich.
Mr. Mwogeza stressed the need to commercialize university prototypes and ideas. He explained that banks like Stanbic use their networks to strengthen innovators’ business cases, preparing them for market entry. Mr. Sibukule on the other hand called for transformation of mindsets right from secondary school level so that students are well primed to communicate, collaborate, uphold integrity and good work attitudes over qualifications in the marketplace. Mr. Irumba highlighted efforts by the PAU to create more opportunities for Ugandan entities to get involved in the oil and gas sector thanks to gaps highlighted by a study undertaken by the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC). Ms. Cherotich on the other hand invited CEOs to take interest in research outputs of the Makerere UniversityResearch and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) and reassured the audience of the Convocation’s readiness to provide a trusted platform for engagement with industry.
Panelists from Left to Right: Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto, Mr. Samuel Mwogeza, Mr. Peter Sibukule and Mr. Clovice Bright Irumba with Moderator-Dr. William Tayeebwa.
Contributing to the day’s discussion, Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo, Executive Director of the Uganda Vice Chancellors’ Forum (UVF), reminded the audience of the “Triple Helix” model and it’s underlying policy frameworks that in the recent past guided collaboration between universities, government, and the private sector. He observed Uganda’s lack of a robust framework, and called for policies that tie tax incentives to university support by corporations and other business entities.
Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo.
Proceedings
The inaugural edition of the summit was moderated by Dr. Tayeebwa William from the Department of Journalism and Communication who doubles as Managing Editor Makerere University Press and Dr. Viola Karungi from the Department of Performing Arts and Film (PAF).
Dr. Viola Karungi (Left) and Dr. William Tayeebwa (Right).
The PAF team took charge of the leading the anthems and day’s entertainment, which included a poetic presentation of the Makerere University Anthem.
The Office of Academic Registrar, Makerere University has released the admission list of candidates admitted under the Disability and District Quota Schemes with Government sponsorship 2025/26 Academic Year.
Kindly follow the links below to access the lists:-