General
Project Financial Management Training Kicks Off
Published
3 years agoon
By
Mak Editor
The Directorate of Finance, Makerere University on 23rd March 2022 embarked on a four-day training aimed at equipping Makerere University Staff with Project Finance Management skills, especially in line with guidelines and regulations of the Public Finance Management Act, 2015. The training to be held in the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-engineering Conference Hall was officially launched by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, represented by the University Bursar, Mr. Evarist Bainomugisha.
“The Government informed us that all grants must be declared to the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development during the budgeting process. Any grant or project that has not been declared to the Ministry and approved by Parliament is not supposed to be in operation. Following all these developments, Makerere University had to ensure harmonisation with Government programmes. Thus Makerere University put in place the Grants Administration and Management Policy of 2020 as well as the Grants Administration and Management Support Unit (GAMSU)” remarked the Bursar.
Mr. Bainomugisha added that all these developments are aimed at ensuring that public funds entrusted to the University and her staff are properly managed and reported. “And so we have organised this meeting to ensure that you are oriented in these key developments in terms of laws and in terms of the administrative procedures that have been put in place.”
Addressing the role of GAMSU in grants management, the Unit Head Prof. Grace Bantebya Kyomuhendo informed participants that one of the reasons for holding the meeting was to facilitate the process of declaring projects that exist in the University, so as to comply with the University policy guidelines and Government requirements.
Prof. Bantebya Kyomuhendo clarified that GAMSU’s role is not to handle finances. “The funds are going to be governed by other structures and systems that deal with funds. However, we are part of the system to make sure that these processes are made easy and fast for us as researchers.”
She shared that GAMSU derives its functions from the Grants Administration and Management policy, with the top three outlined as:
- i) Undertake regular mapping and maintain an up-to-date database of grants and funding opportunities and ensure that these opportunities are communicated to faculty and staff in a timely manner;
- ii) Ensure that Makerere University is registered with various funding agencies wherever necessary; and
- iii) Support faculty and other staff of the University in the preparation of grants applications;
Prof. Bantebya Kyomuhendo said that GAMSU will support researchers and innovators at Pre-Award, Award and Post-Award levels. GAMSU will also look out for donor opportunities and announcements as well as compile information on donors’ and partners’ interests from the submitted projects. These will be compiled and published on quarterly.
The University Secretary Mr. Yusuf Kiranda who was asked to speak about how the Grants Administration and Management Policy can better be understood emphasised that researchers and faculty ought to read and internalise the document.

Mr. Kiranda reiterated that the University’s stature as a Government Institution, implies that all funds received through and in the name of Makerere automatically become public funds, subject to rules and regulations governing resources therein.
“One of the key laws we must know in this regard is the Public Finance Management Act of 2015 as amended. Interestingly this law also discusses in detail the issue of how we manage projects funded by grants, that is under section 44” he said.
Reverting to the Grants Administration and Management Policy, the University Secretary said, “the idea of the policy was to streamline the administration and management of grants across the entire chain from identification to close up.” He emphasised that the spirit behind the policy was to support as opposed to control the grants process.
Mr. Kiranda further outlined the objectives of the Grants Policy as;
- i) To establish a framework for grants mobilisation and management within the University;
- ii) To create a platform to track and monitor grants within the University;
- iii) To establish strategic global partnerships with other institutions with the intent to solicit funds for scholarships, research and infrastructure development;
- iv) To provide guidelines through which projects funded by grants link to existing laws, policies and regulations governing Makerere as a Public University;
- v) To define the roles of different University officials in the mobilisation, management, and administration of grants at the University.
Prior to introducing BVL Consultants, the firm tasked with training staff on project financial management, the Manager Accounts and Reporting, Mr. Gyaviira Lubowa urged participants to seriously consider the calls to adhere to the Public Finance Management Act and Grants Administration and Management Policy guidelines.
He further tasked them to adhere to timelines for preparation of quarterly reports as raised by Mr. George Turyamureeba, the GAMSU Head of Finance. “George informed you that the University will be expected to produce your quarterly reports within two weeks following the end of the quarter. This implies that your reports ought to be produced latest, within a week after close of the quarter.”
The Team Leader, BVL Consults, Mr. Owor Julius while pointing out issues of best practice that the training will tackle, urged participants to always be cautious about closing out projects. “There should be coordination of financial and non-financial information at this stage.”
The University Bursar concluded the day’s proceedings by thanking all attendees for their participation and ideas, adding that it is up to us as an institution to prove to the Government that we have the capacity to manage grants within the institution’s structures. He pledged the Finance Department’s readiness to continue supporting GAMSU’s sensitization meetings for all colleges and at different units of the university.
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The Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) announces the reconstitution of its Board of Trustees as of 1 April 2025. This follows the Trustee Elections that were held in December 2024 where vacant positions on the Board for Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA), Makerere University Administrative Staff Association (MASA), and National Union of Education Institutions (NUEI) were filled.
On 1st April 2025, the Board held a reorganisation meeting and elected Michael Kizito (PhD) as the Board Chairperson and CPA Francesca Angida Mugyema as the Board Secretary. In addition, the Board confirmed the membership of its standing Committees.
MURBS remains committed to strong governance and acting in the best interest of its members.
Business & Management
Mak and ACCA Career Workshop: Students tipped on success, professionalism and the future of accountancy
Published
1 day agoon
April 2, 2025
On Tuesday 1st April 2025, over600 students from the College of Business and Management Sciences convened at Makerere University Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium to participate in the Career workshop that provided an invaluable platform for students to engage with industry leaders, gain insights into career prospects and professional development within the accounting and finance sectors.
Organized by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in Uganda in partnership with Makerere University Department of Accounting and Finance, School of Business under the College of Business and Management Sciences, the Career workshop also presented a platform to celebrate the academic achievements of the ten (10) Bachelor of Commerce students who graduated with First Class degrees-Honours Division during the Makerere University 75th Graduation ceremony held in January 2025.
Prior to the workshop, the Dean, School of Business, Dr. Godfrey Akileng in an interview with the College’s Communication Office, disclosed that celebrating the academic achievements of the students who obtained First Class degrees would inspire the current students to excel. In addition, Dr. Akileng noted that the presence of graduates who excelled at the Career workshop would lead to networking and peer mentorship possibilities with the current students.
During the Career workshop, speakers from Makerere University and ACCA Uganda re-affirmed their commitment to equipping graduates with the knowledge, skills and tools needed to excel in a rapidly evolving job market.
To understand the future of accountancy, students listened to presentations featuring the relevance of the accounting and finance in today’s job market by Dr. Eric Nzibonera; Insights on the collaboration with ACCA by Ms Charlotte Kukunda; Discussion of the global career opportunities in accounting and how ACCA supports professional development by Ms Jackie Mbabazi; and a keynote speech titled, An exploration of the skills and trends shaping the future of the accounting and finance industries in the 21st Century by Mr. Robert Busuulwa.

In his address, the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences, Prof. Edward Bbaale acknowledged the School of Business for proritising career talks and mentorship sessions for students.
“To the students, the Career workshop presents you with a chance to envision your career, and what you want to be, or what you want to study,” he said.
The Principal underscored the critical importance of bridging the gap between the academia and industry. He highlighted the instrumental role of partnerships, particularly the collaboration between Makerere University and ACCA in equipping students with globally competitive skills and certifications.
Prof. Bbaale emphasized that in the 21st century, this interface isn’t merely an option but “a necessity,” echoing the sentiments of both the keynote speaker, Mr. Robert Busuulwa, and ACCA partners.

He advised students to visualise themselves as “global candidates” and pursue their careers with diligence and passion, taking the lessons from the workshop seriously and seeking continuous professional development. Prof. Bbaale stressed the significance of “building oneself, moulding oneself” through education, training, and experience, advocating for a focus on human capital development over immediate financial gain.
He emphasized the importance of “volunteering to work” in orderto gain experience and build a professional network. He reaffirmed the College’s commitment to strengthening collaborations to ensure graduates are academically competent and well-prepared to navigate the evolving job market.
Dr. Eric Nzibonera, the Head, Department of Accounting and Finance at the College of Business and Management Sciences highlighted the significance of career guidance events for University students. He explained that career workshops provide a valuable opportunity for students to “make a choice about a particular career,” a privilege he noted was not always available to students in the past. Dr. Nzibonera believed the workshop was a chance for students to learn from experienced professionals, guiding them towards informed decisions about their future careers.
Convinced that the workshop presented a golden opportunity to students to learn from experienced professionals, Dr. Nzibonera called upon students to leverage such moments to listen to the respective presenters, prepare to ask questions on professionalism, accreditation and career paths.
Focusing on the relevance of accounting and finance in today’s job market, Dr. Nzibonera reiterated that the accounting profession is very central in the day to day lives of individuals. “Inall realms of business, in whatever you do, you need some scheme or some kind of accounting that works,” he remarked. He noted that this underlines the universal applicability of financial literacy, whether pursuing careers directly related to the field.

The Country Manager, ACCA Uganda, Ms Charlotte Kukunda informed the students who turned up in big numbers, that the Career workshop was anchored in the programmes and activities that Makerere University and ACCA Uganda agreed to undertake when both entities signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in July 2022.
Ms Kukunda affirmed that ACCA Uganda values its strategic partnership with Makerere University, which has been mutually beneficial and fruitful. To expound this argument, Ms Kukunda highlighted the achievements which included: 660 students enrolled for ACCA programme, curriculum reviews of Makerere University accounting programmes, re-accreditation of the Bachelor of Commerce Accounting in June 2022, annual recognition of best accounting students since 2022, tutor capacity building workshops conducted at the College, lecturers granted access to the Education Hub, and hosting of three student career workshops annually.
She outlined the areas of collaboration with Makerere University as follows: accreditation of accounting programmes, co-development of teaching programmes that align and support the University edge resources and professional insights, employability through supporting students’ career and skills development, access to ACCA member networks to support Makerere University guest lectures/panels/conference speakers, and faculty skills development support in their teaching, learning and assessment.
The Country Manager said the Career workshop is planned, deliberate and intentional because ACCA classifies Makerere University students as strategic business leaders who are being nurtured, trained and prepared to drive the economy. She clarified that the ACCA programme is not limited to only students studying accounting. According to Ms Kukunda, the ACCA programme embraces a broader range of disciplines and positions students for global competitiveness.
Ms. Kukunda encouraged students to explore the information resources on the ACCA website to tap into the opportunities that will enhance their financial acumen. She urged students to perceive themselves as global citizens. “When you perceive yourself as that, you are the right candidate for pursuing these globally accredited qualifications,” she said. She reinforced the value of connections and valuable networks with industry professionals, assuring students that their future is filled with potential and opportunities.
Feeding into Ms Kukunda’s presentation, Ms Jackie Mbabazi, the Business Relationship Manager at ACCA Uganda highlighted the significance of the ACCA qualification in shaping future leaders. She affirmed that ACCA is “a forward-thinking qualification” connected to vital sectors and stakeholders globally.
Ms. Mbabazi emphasized the global reach of the ACCA. “We are present in 180 countries. As you plan your professional journey, consider the ACCA qualification that is going to make you professional. Technology has enabled us to work beyond borders. Having globally recognized qualifications such as ACCA positions you to work globally,” she elaborated.

Ms. Mbabazi further pointed out the “forward-thinking qualification” attributes of ACCA. These include: Empowering individuals to be digitally relevant, creating ethical and trusted professionals, global recognition, professionals who add value, access to the most up to date syllabus on the market, and continuous learning for trainees as well as access to the global employability platform.
She also discussed the importance of adapting to technological advancements, stating, “You need to adapt and make sure technology is at the heart of what you are doing.”
Ms. Mbabazi articulated that ethics is at the centre of the ACCA programme. “ACCA programmes uphold ethics in building professionals. I urge you to avoid any form of fraud,” she emphasized.
The captivating presentations from the College of Business and Management Sciences and ACCA Uganda set the pace for the students to listen to a powerful keynote speech. Dr. Martin Bakundana introduced the keynote speaker, Mr. Robert Busuulwa, the founder and Managing Partner of Forvis Mazars in Uganda with over 30 years of tested and proven experience.
Mr. Robert Busuulwa’s keynote speech embodied words of wisdom and lived experiences that require an individual to be responsible for his or her destiny.
He guided the students that being successful is a personal choice and commitment. “If you want to be successful, dedicate time and study success,” he advised.
“When you plan to do something, focus and concentrate. Pursue your ambitions and career aspirations with determination and confidence,” he added.
He castigated the popular phrase where individuals believe that it is the government responsible for their success and development. That statements calling upon the government to “assist” individuals should be discarded. “True liberation is about understanding who you are, your strengths and weakness, and what you can do as an individual to leverage your strength,” he stated.
He emphasized the importance of acquiring relevant skills, urging students to consider what they needed to demonstrate to future employers, particularly in light of evolving trends such as AI, robotics, and big data. “What are the skills that you are expected to demonstrate?” he asked, reflecting on the broadening scope of skills in the field.

Using lively examples, the keynote speaker informed the audience that he had to create time to be at Makerere University on 1st April 2025 to speak to the students. He reported that he manages a very tight schedule, but if you want and value something, you work towards it, and ensure it is a possibility.
“I am here because I created time and convinced myself that I should join you today. I love mentorship and interacting with people. I love being here. I have to return to society, what it has given me through qualifications, life and experiences. Through this career workshop, I am exactly doing that,” he said.
Mr. Busuulwa shared anecdotes from his academic journey and connecting with young minds poised for the future. He reinforced the notion that the landscape of accounting has changed dramatically, moving from traditional number-crunching to roles involving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors, financial crime, and IT consulting.

Mr. Busuulwa mentioned that with the trends in the accounting profession, students and practitioners are presented with diverse career paths.
Mr. Busuulwa encouraged students to understand and appreciate their potential. “Every one of you here has the potential. I urge you to believe in your capabilities,” he said. He cautioned students and young people in general against limiting beliefs. Citing the power of thinking and its effects on the choices that individuals make, he stated, “If you think you can’t do it, you will not.”
He inspired students to actively shape their careers, stressing the need for adaptability and continuous learning. He appealed to the students to always empower their minds and souls with positive statements such as “Whatever it is, I am going to be successful,” he remarked.
The Career workshop moderated by Ms Sylvia Namujjuzi, Assistant Lecturer at the College of Business and Management Sciences assisted by Mr. Jonathan Basalirwa, a third year student, ended on a high note with presentation of awards of excellence to the best ten (10) First Class Honours Division graduates, and a networking session involving the respective speakers and students.
The Principal thanked the Dean, School of Business- Dr. Godfrey Akileng, Dr. Eric Nzibonera, Ms Sylvia Namujjuzi, Mr. John Ogema, the Makerere University Accountancy Bureau, and the team from ACCA Uganda for organizing the Career workshop 2025.
The discussions involving Makerere University staff namely Prof. Edward Bbaale, Dr. Eric Nzibonera, ACCA Uganda-Ms Charlotte Kukunda and Ms Jackie Mbabazi, and the Keynote Speaker Mr. Robert Busuulwa emphasized the necessity of bridging the gap between academic training and real-world skills.
General
Re-Advert: Position of Second Deputy Vice Chancellor
Published
3 days agoon
March 31, 2025By
Mak Editor
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
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