The College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) at Makerere University held its first-ever non-academic staff retreat on December 7-8, 2024, at the Grand Global Hotel in Kikoni, a Kampala suburb. The retreat focused on customer care, quality assurance, professional work ethics, and human resource management. This landmark event, organized under the guidance of CHUSS Principal Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, was aimed at fostering teamwork, reflecting on work practices, and strategizing ways to enhance service delivery and the university’s overall image.

The retreat brought together administrative and support staff to build networks, improve working environments, and align individual efforts with the university’s strategic goals. “We are here to learn, dialogue, and strategize together to improve our services in line with the university’s strategic direction. It starts with us,” said Prof. Nkabala in her opening remarks. She emphasized the collective responsibility of staff in achieving Makerere University’s vision.

Prof. Nkabala also highlighted challenges such as inadequate staffing, particularly among security personnel and custodians, and called for the Human Resources Directorate to reconsider housing policies to support this vital group of workers.

In addition to formal sessions, the retreat featured interactive dialogues between staff and management, work place role plays, team-building exercises, and fitness training. A fireplace dinner provided a relaxed setting for staff to share concerns and suggestions. Activities like these rejuvenate the spirit and promote a sense of belonging.

Key Presentations and Insights

The retreat featured presentations from Makerere’s Director of Human Resources, Deus Tayari Mujuni; Chair of the CHUSS Quality Assurance Committee, Prof. Sylvia Nanyonga Tamusuza; Dr. Dickson Kanakulya, Head of the Department of Philosophy; and Dr. Gilbert Gumoshabe, Head of the Department of African Languages.

Love Your Work and Serve Clients Diligently- Dr. Gilbert Gumoshabe

Dr. Gilbert Gumoshabe, the Head of the Department of African Languages, presented on the importance of customer care in the workplace, focusing on how staff should attend to clients, particularly students, and the behavior expected of them while on the job. He began by emphasizing the importance of loving one’s work, regardless of the role. “Love your work. You applied for it. If you’re a secretary, PR, cleaner, or messenger, love your job. There is nothing more rewarding than people trusting you. Do your work with a smile,” he advised.

Dr. Gumoshabe discussed several key aspects of professional conduct, beginning with the importance of time management and serving clients diligently. He also highlighted the need for staff to leave personal beliefs, especially those related to witchcraft, outside the workplace. “Leave your beliefs like witchcraft behind the office. Witchcraft is real, and it moves in families. If you’re bewitching, what will happen when you’re bewitched? Always do to others what should be done to you. Avoid being jealous of those who do their work. If you focus on doing your job well, you won’t be chased, but if you indulge in witchcraft, you will be deceived. Sometimes you condemn yourself and slander others,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of professionalism in the workplace. Dr. Gumoshabe lectured staff on maintaining confidentiality, being polite in communication, greeting people with respect, and handling personal problems privately. He emphasized the need for staff to be friendly, responsible, and cooperative with colleagues and their leaders. Furthermore, he advised staff on maintaining personal hygiene and cultivating good habits. “Dress appropriately and be mindful of your shopping. Look for what fits you. No matter how much you want to attract love, your dressing matters. Avoid talking negatively about your supervisors, as all information that goes around comes around. There is no perfect person, and administrators want results,” Dr. Gumoshabe concluded.

Upholding Quality Standards: There must be a change in the image of our college and university- Prof. Tamusuza

Professor Sylvia Antonia Nanyonga Nakimera Tamusuza, the Chair of the CHUSS Quality Assurance Committee, addressed staff on the essential role of quality assurance in enhancing service delivery and improving the university’s reputation. She emphasized that quality begins with personal responsibility, encouraging staff to reflect on their work environments and professional conduct. “Quality is about doing things the best way and ensuring they meet the required standards,” she remarked, highlighting that teamwork, cleanliness, and attention to detail are vital components in maintaining high standards.

Professor Tamusuza warned against complacency and urged staff to embrace continuous improvement. She explained that quality assurance not only leads to better services and a more conducive working environment but also reduces complaints. “When there is quality, we will always smile when things are done well,” she said. She added that quality assurance contributes significantly to the university’s reputation, resulting in happier students and staff, and fostering a sense of pride within the university community.

To further elaborate, Professor Tamusuza highlighted the principles of quality assurance. She emphasized the importance of doing the right things consistently, checking work to ensure it aligns with assigned tasks, correcting mistakes, being efficient, managing time effectively, and promoting clear communication and teamwork. “We cannot change what we do unless we improve the quality of what we do. Let us think about efficiency and time management, and we should be people who pay attention to detail,” she stressed.

In addition, she underscored the critical role of staff in maintaining quality assurance, including keeping offices clean, greeting visitors politely, filing documents properly, ensuring cleanliness in toilets and compounds, arriving on time, and maintaining self-discipline at work. Creating a daily checklist for tasks, she suggested, is another way to ensure quality.

“Remember, you hold the quality of the work in the place where you work. Whether it’s a professor, student, or visitor, please handle them properly because we are here because they are here,” Professor Tamusuza emphasized. She concluded by stressing the need for a shift in the image of the college and university, noting that this change starts with each individual. “There must be a change in the image of our college and university because of the services we offer. It begins with me,” she declared.

Offering motivational advice, she shared that quality is not just an action but a habit that everyone must cultivate. “Every small thing makes a difference. Doing your work well helps you remain healthy. Your work helps Makerere shine,” she concluded.

Work Ethics and Professionalism by Dr. Dickson Kanakulya

Dr. Dickson Kanakulya delivered a compelling session on the importance of work ethics and professionalism, emphasizing that a strong work ethic is the foundation for high performance and institutional success. He discussed how attitude, ethical behavior, and professionalism are integral to creating a productive and harmonious work environment.

In his presentation, Dr. Kanakulya underscored the transformative power of a positive attitude, describing it as essential for workplace success. “A negative attitude is like a flat tire—you won’t get anywhere until you change it,” he remarked. He explained that cultivating a positive outlook not only boosts personal engagement but also fosters productivity and collaboration among colleagues.

Dr. Kanakulya also reminded staff of the importance of aligning their actions with Makerere University’s core values of integrity, accountability, and respect. Ethical conduct, he emphasized, is critical for building trust, strengthening teamwork, and enhancing the university’s reputation as a global knowledge hub. “Ethical conduct builds trust, strengthens teamwork, and contributes to Makerere’s standing as a global knowledge hub,” he stated, highlighting how these principles serve both the individual and the institution.

He further stressed the importance of efficient use of time, urging staff to manage their schedules effectively and ensure that their tasks are completed in a timely manner. Efficiency, he noted, is a hallmark of professionalism and a vital component of high performance. Additionally, he encouraged staff to pay close attention to detail in their work, explaining that professionalism requires care and precision to uphold the university’s high standards.

Through his engaging presentation, Dr. Kanakulya illustrated how embracing ethical principles, maintaining a positive attitude, and demonstrating professionalism can enhance individual performance while contributing to Makerere University’s strategic vision.

HR Reforms to Streamline Operations– Chief HR Deus Mujuni

Chief Human Resource Officer, Deus Tayari Mujuni detailed Makerere University’s revised Human Resources policies, aimed at enhancing efficiency and compliance with employment laws. Addressing the retreat, he outlined updates from the amended 2009 HR Manual, which emphasize recruitment protocols, leave management, and payroll accuracy.

Mujuni  reported that Makerere University has rolled out significant updates to its Human Resources (HR) policies, aiming to streamline staff management and ensure compliance with labor laws. The changes, unveiled by the university’s Human Resources Director, Deus Tayari Mujuni, focus on recruitment, leave management, performance evaluation, and payroll systems, as detailed in the revised 2009 HR Manual.

“The manual consolidates policies, procedures, and practices to guide the recruitment, development, and retention of staff,” Tayari explained, emphasizing its critical role in defining the responsibilities of the University Council and employees.

A key reform mandates that, starting FY 2024/2025, unit-level appointments funded by non-wage budgets will be prohibited, ensuring such funds prioritize teaching and research. The University Council reaffirmed this during its May 9, 2024, meeting, emphasizing that all salaries must align with the designated wage budget.

Tayari also underscored the expanded duties of line managers, which include monitoring performance, overseeing leave compliance, and ensuring accurate payroll management. Notably, staff on study leave must now submit signed bonding agreements and periodic progress reports, with failure to return from leave classified as misconduct under Section 9.6 of the HR Manual.

The revisions also enhance payroll accuracy by requiring timely updates about inactive staff receiving salaries. Occupational safety and health measures have been bolstered to comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

“These updates aim to propel Makerere into becoming a high-performance institution by aligning individual and organizational goals,” Tayari concluded. The reforms are expected to improve efficiency, accountability, and institutional alignment with Makerere’s strategic vision.

Participants react

The retreat underscored the critical role of non-academic staff in achieving Makerere University’s vision as a global knowledge hub. The event concluded with a collective commitment to apply the insights gained, ensuring that CHUSS remains a model of excellence within Makerere University.

Participants expressed gratitude for the retreat and praised its relevance to their roles.

Sunday Seezi, Chief Custodian, shared:
“This retreat was a first of its kind for us as non-teaching staff. Many times, we hear of workshops for academic staff, but this time we felt seen and valued. The activities were well-organized, and we left with valuable lessons to implement in our daily work. We appreciate our Principal for this initiative.”

Rebecca Talikaza, another custodian, added:
“We are indeed happy to be included in such an event. The choice of the hotel was excellent—we slept well, ate well, and learned a lot. The presentations were rejuvenating, and I believe everyone who attended has a changed mindset. However, I suggest that next time, participants be given certificates of attendance. It would mean a lot to many of us who don’t have formal academic qualifications.”

Annet Nakaye, a cleaner and messenger, noted:
“This was my first time attending such a workshop. I learned a lot about how to improve my work and serve better. I am grateful to our Principal for thinking about us. We promise to improve where we have been falling short.”

The retreat reaffirmed that achieving institutional goals requires the dedication and collaboration of every member of the university community.

Makerere University has recorded significant progress in addressing sexual harassment through its Kicking Sexual Harassment Out of Higher Education Institutions (KISH) project. Findings from the project’s endline dissemination, held on December 5, 2024, revealed the positive impact of interventions designed to create a safer academic environment.

Launched in 2020, the KISH project was a collaboration between the School of Women and Gender Studies, the School of Psychology, and the School of Computing and Informatics Technology at Makerere University. Funded by Uganda’s Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (Mak-RIF), the project adopted a whole-university approach to tackle sexual harassment holistically by involving all stakeholders and implementing diverse interventions tailored to different groups.

The project introduced several key components, including KISH Student Clubs for female students, an online sexual harassment course for students and staff, the Men’s Hub targeting male participants, and an innovative online reporting and response system. The initiative aimed to empower students and staff with life skills, increase awareness of sexual harassment policies, and establish accessible channels for reporting and addressing harassment.

During the online dissemination event Prof. Grace Bantebya Kyomuhendo, the project’s Principal Investigator (PI), highlighted the need for a systemic approach to tackle sexual harassment. “This issue cannot be resolved through isolated interventions. We designed KISH to address every aspect of the university system, engage all stakeholders, and foster collective responsibility,” she said. Prof. Bantebya emphasized the project’s focus on including men as part of the solution, stating, “Men are often labeled as perpetrators, but they need to be engaged as allies and advocates for change.”

Findings from the project’s baseline survey showed that over 75% of staff and 80% of students acknowledged that sexual harassment was common at Makerere University. Female students were the most frequent victims, while male students and staff were identified as the primary perpetrators. However, a culture of silence prevailed, with over 80% of female staff and 91% of female students who experienced harassment failing to report their cases. Factors such as fear of retaliation, normalization of harassment, and lack of trust in existing reporting mechanisms were identified as barriers.

The endline survey demonstrated a shift in attitudes and practices. Knowledge about sexual harassment and confidence in responding to incidents had increased among students and staff. The online reporting system was lauded for its ease of use, anonymity, and smartphone accessibility, providing a confidential platform for victims and whistleblowers. The KISH Men’s Hub emerged as a pivotal initiative, engaging male participants in dialogue about masculinity, gender equality, and their role in eliminating harassment.

Prof. Florence Muhanguzi, Project Co-PI, emphasized the transformative impact of these interventions. “The KISH initiative has empowered the university community by equipping them with tools to identify and address sexual harassment,” she said. While acknowledging the progress made, Prof. Muhanguzi stressed the need for sustained efforts to raise awareness and integrate KISH activities into broader university programs.

Representing the Chairperson Grants Management Committee, Ms. Phoebe Lutaaya Kamya commended the project for its high impact. “This initiative stands out as a life-changing innovation, and we hope it will extend beyond Makerere to other higher education institutions in Uganda,” she said.

The workshop was moderated by Prof. Julius Kikooma who is also Project Co-PI and featured presentations from other Co-PIs and panel discussions. Key recommendations from the dissemination meeting included incorporating sexual harassment training into orientation programs for new students, expanding awareness campaigns to reach all university units, and mainstreaming KISH initiatives into existing safeguarding policies. The project team also proposed seeking additional funding to enhance and sustain the initiative.

As the project concludes, it leaves a legacy of actionable strategies, robust systems, and an empowered community committed to fostering a safe and inclusive academic environment. Prof. Bantebya underscored the broader vision, stating, “The fight against sexual harassment requires a collective effort. Together, we can create a culture of respect, dignity, and zero tolerance for harassment in higher education.”

Makerere University on 25^th November 2024  marked a decade of cultural and academic partnership with China by celebrating the 10^th anniversary of its Confucius Institute and the 20^th anniversary of the global Confucius Institutes network. Established in 2014, the Confucius Institute has grown into a key pillar in fostering relations between Uganda and China, language education, cultural exchange, and academic collaboration.

 The event, held at the University Main Hall, featured the launch of three associations: the Confucius Institute Alumni Association, the Uganda Native Chinese Language Teachers Association, and the Uganda Secondary School Chinese Students Association.

The colorful ceremony was presided over by Mr. Mulindwa Israel, Director of Basic and Secondary Education, representing Uganda’s Minister of State for Higher Education. The function was also graced by the representatives of the Chinese Ambassador to Uganda and the Vice President of Xiangtan University.  Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe addressed the gathering. The event included cultural performances, speeches, and panel discussions that highlighted the growing ties between Uganda and China.

Uganda’s Ministry of Education Extends Gratitude to Confucius Institute

A representative of Uganda’s Minister of State for Higher Education, Mr. Mulindwa Israel lauded the Confucius Institute at Makerere University for its decade-long role in fostering stronger ties between Uganda and China. Speaking at the Institute’s 10th anniversary celebrations, Mr. Mulindwa, the Director for Basic and Secondary Education at the Ministry of Education and Sports, emphasized the Institute’s pivotal contribution to promoting Chinese language and culture in Uganda.

Mr. Mulindwa delivered the message on behalf of the Minister of State for Higher Education, Dr. J.C. Muyingo, who was unable to attend due to another pressing engagement. “It is my great honor to represent the Ministry today as we celebrate a decade of academic collaboration and cultural exchange between Uganda and China,” Mr. Mulindwa stated. “The Confucius Institute has been an important bridge in strengthening the relationship between our two nations.”

Highlighting the Institute’s achievements, Mr. Mulindwa praised its role in introducing Chinese language instruction to Ugandan secondary schools and facilitating teacher training. “This year, we witnessed the significant milestone of Chinese language assistants being deployed across Uganda’s ordinary and advanced secondary schools. I am also excited to note the commitment to train over 500 teachers in the coming years to meet the growing demand for Chinese language education,” he said.

The Director also commended the Institute for its innovative virtual Chinese and Asian Studies program, which has already produced highly qualified graduates in the Chinese language. “This initiative complements the Ministry of Education and Sports’ efforts to train sufficient teachers to meet the increasing demand for Chinese language instruction,” Mr. Mulindwa added.

Reflecting on the philosophy of Confucius, Mr. Mulindwa concluded, “Learning without thought is laborious. Thought without learning is priceless. The Confucius Institute embodies this philosophy, nurturing minds and fostering global citizenship.”

He further expressed gratitude to the Chinese Embassy in Uganda, the leadership of Makerere University, and all partners involved in supporting the Confucius Institute’s success. Mr. Mulindwa assured them of the Ministry’s continued support in advancing cultural understanding, innovation, and cooperation between Uganda and China.

“Congratulations to the Confucius Institute on this remarkable achievement,” Mr. Mulindwa concluded, pledging continued support for the Institute’s future endeavors.

Makerere Vice Chancellor Celebrates 10 Years of Cultural and Educational Achievements

Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe,  hailed the Confucius Institute for its transformative impact on Chinese language education and cultural exchange in Uganda. Prof. Nawangwe emphasized the institution’s role in fostering deeper ties between Uganda and China.

“The Confucius Institute at Makerere University, established in 2014 with the generous support of the Chinese Government and Xiangtan University, has achieved remarkable milestones over the past decade,” Prof. Nawangwe remarked.

He highlighted the growth of the Chinese language program at Makerere University, which began with just 30 students and now boasts over 4,000 learners across degree programs, short courses, and secondary schools. “This significant growth reflects the increasing interest in Chinese language and culture among Ugandans,” he added.

Prof. Nawangwe acknowledged the Institute’s pivotal role in building partnerships with Chinese companies and institutions, enabling Makerere students and staff to access scholarships and other opportunities in China. He also commended the Institute for serving as a bridge between Uganda and China, enhancing economic and cultural ties.

Looking ahead, the Vice Chancellor outlined an ambitious vision for the next decade. “We envision the Confucius Institute becoming a leading center for Chinese language and cultural studies in East Africa. Our plans include expanding our programs to cover Chinese culture, history, and business, and establishing more partnerships with Chinese enterprises and institutions,” he stated.

Recognizing the challenges of meeting the growing demand for Chinese language skills driven by Uganda-China economic ties, Prof. Nawangwe called for continued investment in programs, infrastructure, and innovation.

He expressed gratitude to the Chinese Government, Xiangtan University, and the Centre for Language Education and Cooperation for their unwavering support. “We are also deeply thankful to our dedicated staff and students, whose efforts have made the Confucius Institute at Makerere University a success,” he noted.

As the celebrations concluded, Prof. Nawangwe reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment to promoting Chinese language and culture and strengthening the relationship between Uganda and China.

“This 10th anniversary is not just a reflection of our achievements but a beacon for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead,” he concluded.

Directors Celebrate Milestones

 Directors Dr. Gilbert Gumoshabe and Mr. Tang Fei reflected on the Institute’s achievements. They highlighted milestones such as training over 50,000 students in Chinese language and culture, preparing 170 Ugandans as Chinese language teachers, and facilitating the further studies of 200 students and scholars in China.

“Today, we celebrate a journey that has transformed lives and fostered understanding. With unwavering support from our partners, we have moved mountains,” Gumoshabe said

 The Institute has also excelled in hosting cultural events, supporting the introduction of Chinese in Ugandan secondary schools, and launching a Bachelor of Chinese and Asian Studies program that has already produced graduates. Additionally, it has connected students to job opportunities in Chinese companies, significantly improving their livelihoods.

One of the notable accolades mentioned was the recognition of the Confucius Institute as the “Institute of the Year” in 2018, a testament to its exemplary performance. Other achievements include fostering research in China-Africa relations, excelling in international competitions such as the Chinese Bridge Competition, and organizing cultural activities beyond Makerere University.

The Directors acknowledged the support of Makerere University, particularly under former Vice Chancellor Prof. Ddumba Ssentamu and current Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. They also extended gratitude to partners such as Xiangtan University, the Chinese Embassy, and the National Curriculum Development Centre, led by Dr. Grace Baguma, for their role in the Institute’s success.

Looking ahead, the Confucius Institute aims to expand academic programs, deepen cultural exchange, and enhance language training to meet growing global demands. The Directors also paid tribute to former CI directors, including Prof. Hong Yonghong, Prof. Oswald Ndoleriire, Ms. Xia Zhuoqiong, and Dr. Zhong Jianghua, for their contributions to the Institute’s growth.

In their closing remarks, the Directors invoked the wisdom of Confucius: “The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.” They expressed pride in the journey of hope and persistence that led to this milestone and emphasized their commitment to achieving even greater heights in the years ahead.

Chinese International Education Foundation Applauds Confucius Institute at Makerere for 10 Years of Excellence

The Vice President and Secretary General of the Chinese International Education Foundation congratulated the Confucius Institute at Makerere University on its 10^th anniversary, celebrating its achievements in promoting cultural exchange and education between China and Uganda.

In a message delivered during the anniversary celebrations, the foundation commended the collaborative efforts between Makerere University and Xiangtan University. “In the past ten years, Makerere University and Xiangtan University have sincerely cooperated with each other. The Confucius Institute, adhering to the principles of carrying forward traditions, daring to innovate, uniting and cooperating, and dedicating with professionalism, has become an important bridge for disseminating Chinese culture and fostering friendship between China and Uganda,” the message read.

The foundation highlighted key milestones of the institute, including offering multi-level Chinese language courses, organizing cultural activities such as Voice Into My Heart, and training local teachers to successfully integrate Chinese language education into Uganda’s national system.

Acknowledging Makerere University‘s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, for his congratulatory video message on the Confucius Institute Day in September, the foundation noted the strong support for the institute from both Ugandan and Chinese stakeholders. “This reflects how both the Chinese and Ugandan sides value and support the cause of the Confucius Institute, for which we express our heartfelt appreciation,” the Secretary General stated.

Expressing optimism for the future, the foundation emphasized its confidence in the institute’s continued success. “It is believed that with the cooperation of our two sides, the Confucius Institute will be able to give full play to its unique advantages and achieve even greater milestones,” the message concluded.

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