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MakSPH Celebrates Professor Bazeyo at 28 years of service

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After an illustrious 28-year career, Makerere University School of Public Health’s Former Dean Dr. William Bazeyo officially retired from university service.

Dr. Bazeyo, a Professor of Occupational Medicine walked onto Makerere University in August 1993 after being appointed as a Lecturer of Occupational Health at the School of Public Health.

At a Dinner organised by the Makerere University School of Public Health’s Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health held on Tuesday August 9 at Skyz Hotel, Kampala, Makerere University Vice Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe said Professor Bazeyo has selflessly served and made “incredible contributions” to the century old institution and the country.

“Professor Bazeyo is one of the very few Ugandans with whom I have had a lot of pleasure to work with. He is one of the very few people who genuinely loves their country. He is a true patriot. One of the things I found pleasure in working with Prof. Bazeyo is he is very open,” said Prof. Nawangwe.

Makerere University Vice Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe speaks to the audience at MakSPH Dinner to bid farewell to Prof. Bazeyo.
Makerere University Vice Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe speaks to the audience at MakSPH Dinner to bid farewell to Prof. Bazeyo.

He adds that Professor Bazeyo was a true asset attesting to his leadership abilities during the time he worked as Deputy Vice Chancellor, Finance and Administration.

“In that very short time that we worked together, we gained so much as Makerere University. We did so many things that had failed Makerere University in over 30 years. One time he told me I never take a no for an answer. Every assignment he goes on, he comes with an answer,” Prof. Nawangwe.

Prof. Bazeyo (R) holds up his plaque as L-R: Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, Assoc. Prof. John C. Ssempebwa and Assoc. Prof. Esther Buregyeya witness.
Prof. Bazeyo (R) holds up his plaque as L-R: Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, Assoc. Prof. John C. Ssempebwa and Assoc. Prof. Esther Buregyeya witness.

Among some of the achievements credited to Professor Bazeyo according to the Vice Chancellor was his great negotiation skills with government and several stakeholders that saw reduction of a long-standing debt from Ugx120bn to now less than Ugx.10bn.

The vice chancellor also urged staff to emulate Professor Bazeyo by having a positive attitude.

Makerere University Vice Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe shakes hands with Prof Bazeyo at MakSPH Dinner to bid him farewell.
Makerere University Vice Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe shakes hands with Prof Bazeyo at MakSPH Dinner to bid him farewell.

“He [Prof. Bazeyo] has demonstrated how much he loved Makerere University. Even when he left, he still comes and offers guidance. Thank you very much for having that kind of heart. It is very important to have a positive attitude to serve humanity,” Prof. Nawangwe.

Mrs. Lorna Magara, the Makerere University Council Chairperson described Bazeyo as a “larger-than-life” figure with a kind and generous heart.

“On this day Professor Bazeyo we celebrate the man you are. We thank God for who He has made you to be. God packages us uniquely. Just hearing the impact, you have had on so many lives, we thank you!” Mrs. Lorna Magara said.

Mrs. Lorna Magara, the Makerere University Council Chairperson.
Mrs. Lorna Magara, the Makerere University Council Chairperson.

She further praised Prof. Bazeyo for being a down-to-earth person citing that that he easily identifies with ordinary people irrespective of his status in society.

“Professor dines with the rich and the top of the tops but he will know the name of the person who is at the door. He will know the lady in the kitchen. Thank you for a large heart and for knowing even those that are faceless,” says Mrs. Magara.

Mrs. Lorna Magara, the Makerere University Council Chairperson congratulates Bazeyo on his contribution to Makerere University as VC Prof. Nawangwe looks on.
Mrs. Lorna Magara, the Makerere University Council Chairperson congratulates Bazeyo on his contribution to Makerere University as VC Prof. Nawangwe looks on.

On her part, Dean, Prof. Wanyenze hailed Prof. Bazeyo for his significant contribution to Makerere University and particularly the School of Public Health.

“If you had not done your part, we couldn’t be where we are today. I picked on from you and everything you left I was able to move on with it because I was building on a strong foundation. I hope you will continue to support us,” said Prof. Wanyenze.  

Dean, Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze speaking at the ceremony on Tuesday.
Dean, Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze speaking at the ceremony on Tuesday.

She emphasized that the School of Public Health has been privileged with successive strong and progressive leadership that has continued support the School even when they leave. She thanked the previous leadership of the School including Prof. David Serwadda, Prof. Fred Wabwire-Mangen, Prof. Kakitahi, Prof. Bukenya, Prof. Namboze, among others for their incredible leadership.

“People who have been part of MakSPH are always a part of us—please keep with us. We pray for excellent health for you and for a peaceful retirement.” Prof. Wanyenze said.

L-R: Professor Charles Ibingira, former Principal of Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, Dean School of Public Health, Professor William Bazeyo and Deputy Principal Prof Kajja Isaac.
L-R: Professor Charles Ibingira, former Principal of Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, Dean School of Public Health, Professor William Bazeyo and Deputy Principal Prof Kajja Isaac.

Representing the Principal, Professor Isaac Kajja, the Deputy Principal of the Makerere University College of Health Sciences urged the School of Public Health not to lose a person of Prof. Bazeyo’s stature.

Prof. Kajja praised Professor Bazeyo for his kindness and his passion for farming.

“I briefly interacted with Prof. Bazeyo as a Student in my 4th year medical school. But he left something to us. He was kind to us and I remembered how kind you are until I started working with you. Indeed, what these people from School of Public Health have said is right. He is a very kind gentleman. Sincerely that kindness, you will not go away. Even if you try to leave Makerere, with that kindness I know you will come back,” Prof. Kajja said.

Professor Isaac Kajja, the Deputy Principal of the Makerere University College of Health Sciences speaks at the Dinner. 
Professor Isaac Kajja, the Deputy Principal of the Makerere University College of Health Sciences speaks at the Dinner. 

He also requested Prof. Bazeyo to continue working and support the School of Public Health and the entire College of Health Sciences.

Prof. Kajja equated the gesture of thanking its staff and those retiring to his former Mentor’s advice the late Church of Uganda Archbishop Dr. Livingstone Mpalanyi Nkoyoyo who preached about thanking people always.

“It is extremely important to thank people in a timely manner. Immediately thank people when they are still available. That is what I learnt from Archbishop Mpalanyi Nkoyoyo. Why am I saying this? Professor Rhoda Wanyenze and your team, thank you for thanking Professor Bazeyo in a timely manner. When I also leave, the office of the Deputy Principal please thank me. Organize a thank you for me. Don’t wait to thank somebody when we are burying him. Let us develop a culture of thanking people when they are still alive,” Prof. Isaac Kajja appealed.

Professor Bazeyo has been instrumental in fundraising for the new building for MakSPH. Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze revealed at the function that she inherited approximately 1.9bn Uganda shillings from Prof. Bazeyo for construction of the MakSPH building at his handover. She says this money has now increased to more than 12 billion shillings, thanking Bazeyo and the former leadership for having the School at heart.

 What staff say about Bazeyo

Prof. David Serwadda, a former Dean of MakSPH says the School has for long dreamed of having a spacious home. “Infrastructure was always on everybody’s mind right from Prof. Gilbert Bukenya’s time through to Prof. Wabwire’s time and to date. Dr. William was very proactive in building and going through various stages of designs and also fundraising for the School.”

Prof. Serwadda says Dr. William Bazeyo was his successor as the Head of Department of Disease Control, his Deputy Dean as well as Dean.

“The School of Public Health has been lucky. Every leader that has come on as far as I can remember builds on the previous leaders’ achievement and the School of Public Health is where it is now because of contribution from each of the previous leadership. Professor Bazeyo definitely did build on,” says Prof. Serwadda.

Associate Prof. John C. Ssempebwa, a former Head of Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health congratulated Professor Bazeyo on his retirement and cited that Department had benefited greatly from his contribution.

“It was an honor to work with a person who was committed to the success of their co-workers. I have learnt a lot from working with you over the years. I do remember when you used to come to our offices mainly in the mornings to check on us how we are doing socially but also professionally. We really loved that and it encouraged us,” Dr. Ssempebwa said.

Associate Prof. John C. Ssempebwa, a former Head of Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health (Standing) with Prof. Elizeus Rutebemberwa (Right).
Associate Prof. John C. Ssempebwa, a former Head of Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health (Standing) with Prof. Elizeus Rutebemberwa (Right).

Associate Prof. Esther Buregyeya, the Head of Disease Control and Environmental Health Department just like Professor David Guwatudde hailed Bazeyo for his great lobbying skills that have seen the Department, School and University benefit immensely from the networks.

“As you usually say, I negotiate till I get YES for an answer, indeed Professor Bazeyo that is what you are,” said Dr. Buregyeya.

Associate Prof. Esther Buregyeya, the Head of Disease Control and Environmental Health Department in a photo moment with Prof. Bazeyo. 
Associate Prof. Esther Buregyeya, the Head of Disease Control and Environmental Health Department in a photo moment with Prof. Bazeyo. 

According to Dr. Lynn Atuyambe, an Associate Professor in the Department of Community Health and Behavioral Sciences, Professor Bazeyo’s reign at MakSPH saw a log growth in the grant portfolio, academic growth and finance.

Mr. Amos Ashaba Dembe, the internal auditor at MakSPH hailed Prof. Bazeyo for his availability to offer quick solutions and being able to network the School in the entire Makerere and across the various government institutions.

“He would have right and valid contacts at any one time you approached him with a challenge. Sometimes when we are implementing the researches that we manage, you may get stuck either because of policy gaps but whenever you would call on Prof. Bazeyo, he would have the right contacts,” said Ashaba Dembe.

Mr. Amos Ashaba Dembe, the internal auditor at MakSPH pose for a photo with Prof. Bazeyo.
Mr. Amos Ashaba Dembe, the internal auditor at MakSPH pose for a photo with Prof. Bazeyo.

Dr. Fredrick Edward Makumbi, Associate Professor and former Deputy Dean thanked Bazeyo who through his ambitious targets nurtured and saw the establishment of the Staff SACCO which he said had benefited several staff.

In equal measure, Ms. Enid Kemari said; “I think this Sacco has not left us the same. Most staff who have joined this SACCO, their financial status has improved. We have been able to save, but also do some investments which I think is very good.”

Professor Christopher Garimoi Orach praised Prof. Bazeyo for being a result-oriented person; “Apart from fighting for what he believes in very firmly, William is a doer and focused on results. It is really very pleasant to work with him.”

Dr. Elizeus Rutebemberwa, Professor and Deputy Dean MakSPH says he learnt a lot during his time at the helm of the School as someone that wished to see everyone contribute.

“He once narrated how he went to China and visited a factory. In the evening as workers were leaving, each would say, I have been a contribution. And to me, the take home message was every day, one comes to work, one should not just take tea and breathe air but be a contribution to solving challenges facing our country,” Prof. Rutebemberwa.

Professor Bazeyo speaks out

Prof. William Bazeyo thanked Makerere University for the opportunity to serve the nation.
Prof. William Bazeyo thanked Makerere University for the opportunity to serve the nation.

While delivering his remarks, Prof. William Bazeyo thanked Makerere University for the opportunity to serve the nation. He also urged all university staff to always leave a trail in all their work so that they are remembered for their good deeds.

“I want to thank God for this time. I listened to the memory lane and I have listened to what a lot of people have said and it brings me a lot of memories. I want to thank God again for our institution. That you come into an institution, it nurtures you. When the Vice Chancellor talks about these negotiations, meeting donors and so on. Not that you go and say I must! But you have that inside power that it is not yours,” Prof. Bazeyo highlighted.

 “It is what you decide to be that you become. I want to thank the university management and council for approving the Master of Environmental and Occupational Health which I for long has been passionate about. If I was allowed, I would come and give some introductory lectures.

I want to thank the university for nurturing me and accepting me. I am not very simple. Some of you know. As they said I don’t take no as an answer and I don’t believe in failure. And I don’t believe that we can’t do a lot. I thank the University for having been patient with me, especially the Vice Chancellor for accepting me to be his Deputy,” Bazeyo says. 

Professor William Bazeyo.
Professor William Bazeyo.

He thanked the School of Public Health, his mother Department for nurturing him and equally urged the staff to build networks.

“Professor Rhoda said money or resources do not make everything. Indeed, they don’t. Because all those things come from partnerships and friends. If you don’t have them, you have nothing. She has told us the partnerships that the School has, and that is why the School is ranked high. Let your address be that that means something to communities, humanity, to donors and to other institutions,” Prof. Bazeyo.

Prof. William Bazeyo poses for a photo with staff at MakSPH.
Prof. William Bazeyo poses for a photo with staff at MakSPH.

Professor Bazeyo apologized for errors and mistakes that he could have made while at Makerere University and asked for forgiveness from those that were hurt by his actions.

“I want to sincerely apologize if in the time I was at the School, I could have offended you either in writing, talking­­­ Forgive me those whom I hurt,” Bazeyo remorsefully said.

L-R: Chairperson Makerere University Council Mrs. Lorna Magara, Professor William Bazeyo and Professor Rhoda Wanyenze, the Dean, MakSPH.
L-R: Chairperson Makerere University Council Mrs. Lorna Magara, Professor William Bazeyo and Professor Rhoda Wanyenze, the Dean, MakSPH.

About Bazeyo

Born on June 22nd, 1957, Professor Bazeyo clocked mandatory retirement age of Makerere University on September 22nd 2017 having joined the University in 1993. He was offered a post retirement contract for four years as a Professor, in the Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health running from June 2017 to June 2021.

In March 1998, Prof. Bazeyo was promoted to rank of Senior Lecturer, Makerere University and subsequently secured a promotion to the rank Associate Professor in 2011 and later Professor in 2015.

In September 2009, Professor Bazeyo was named Dean, a position he held until September 2017 when he handed over to the current Dean, Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze upon completion of his term of office.

Professor Bazeyo later rose through the university leadership ranks to become Deputy Vice Chancellor, Finance and Administration, Makerere University and later the Head, Grants Administration and Management Support Unit (GAMSU)

During his tenure in MakSPH, he served as the Head of Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health in 2003.

Prof. Bazeyo with some of the staff of MakSPH at the Dinner.
Prof. Bazeyo with some of the staff of MakSPH at the Dinner.

Davidson Ndyabahika

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NTU Global Summer School – A Unique UK Experience for Students

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NTU Global Summer School 2025

The Nottingham Trent University (NTU) Global Summer School will run from 7 July – 1 August 2025 in the heart of England.

Why join this summer?

A diverse range of credit-bearing courses
The Global Summer School offers a variety of exciting courses, from cybersecurity to creative industries, and space science to entrepreneurship – truly something for everyone! With two distinct blocks of courses, students can either dive deeper into their passions or broaden their horizons by exploring new subjects.

Explore Courses

A truly international experience
Students will join peers from many countries across the world, creating a vibrant and multicultural learning environment that enhances the global student experience.

An exciting cultural and social programme
Beyond the classroom NTU offers a full schedule of activities, including visits to iconic UK cities, sports and evening events ensuring that students make the most of their time in the UK.

A safe and welcoming destination
Nottingham is a city renowned for its safety, having earned the prestigious Purple Flag award for its excellent night-time safety and vibrant atmosphere, ensuring your students feel at home both on and off campus.

Application Deadline: 1 June 2025

Apply Today!

Limited places available – apply soon!

Don’t miss out! This is the perfect chance for students to develop new skills, make new friends and experience the best of British culture. NTU looks forward to welcoming students this summer!

Have questions? Contact NTU here! 

Mak Editor

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End of Semester Memo for Academic Year 2024/2025

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Africa, one of three On-Campus Halls of Residence for ladies, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.

All Resident Students

1. Congratulatory Message

On behalf of Makerere University Management, I congratulate and thank you for the successful completion of Semester Two: 2024/2025.

2.End of the Second Semester

The second Semester holiday break will begin on 17th May, 2025 up to Saturday 9th August, 2025.

3. Resident Students

All resident students are expected to vacate the Halls of Residence by mid-day on Saturday, 17th May, 2025.

4. University Property

Please hand over all University property in your possession (such as: room keys, Sports & Games equipment, College property etc) before you leave the Hall of Residence.

5. Security of personal property

Please make sure that you carry with you all your property.

Dean of Students
Makerere University

Mark Wamai

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Inter-college Debate 2025 Seeks to Nurture Confident, Articulate, and Visionary Leaders

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Winners of the Inter-college debates Daphine Kemigisha and Jibiril Ssekandi (School of Law) pose for a photo with debaters and the GRCs of the Debate Union. Organised by the Makerere Debating Union – a student-led initiative, the Inter-college Debate Tournament was held on 11th and 12th April 2025 with a vision to leave no student behind by nurturing a community of confident, articulate, and visionary leaders who will drive positive change in society. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Organised by the Makerere Debating Union – a student-led initiative, the Inter-college Debate Tournament was held on 11th and 12th April 2025 with a vision to leave no student behind by nurturing a community of confident, articulate, and visionary leaders who will drive positive change in society. The tournament was held in three preliminary rounds, followed by semi-finals and a grand finale.

The first round covered democracy and youth participation in politics, while the second round covered inequality and wealth distribution, and the third, the ban on export of raw materials. The semi-final round debated apprenticeship for blue-collar jobs, while the grand finale debated national budget allocations for healthcare and education. In the spirit of inclusivity, all colleges, including the Jinja Campus participated in the tournament.

One of the preliminary rounds in session at Lumumba Hall. Organised by the Makerere Debating Union – a student-led initiative, the Inter-college Debate Tournament was held on 11th and 12th April 2025 with a vision to leave no student behind by nurturing a community of confident, articulate, and visionary leaders who will drive positive change in society. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
One of the preliminary rounds in session at Lumumba Hall.

Commenting on the choice of topics, the organisers noted Makerere University as a bastion of academic excellence has a profound responsibility to cultivate the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of our nation. These leaders, they added, ought to be equipped with 21st century skills of self-expression, critical thinking, and problem-solving so as to navigate the complexities of an ever-evolving world.

On the whole, Makerere Inter-college Debates were conceived as a strategic initiative to foster a culture of intellectual curiosity, creativity, and innovation. The Debating Union aims to empower the future leaders by providing a platform for students to engage in respectful discourse, articulate their thoughts, as well as develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Daphine Kemigisha submitting at the debate grand finale. Organised by the Makerere Debating Union – a student-led initiative, the Inter-college Debate Tournament was held on 11th and 12th April 2025 with a vision to leave no student behind by nurturing a community of confident, articulate, and visionary leaders who will drive positive change in society. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Daphine Kemigisha submitting at the debate grand finale.

Furthermore, the Debates serve as a platform for not only honing the intellectual prowess of students but also cultivating leadership skills, teamwork, and communication abilities that are essential for success in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. It is envisaged that this initiative will have a lasting impact on the lives of students, by exposing them to debates on topical issues that can shape the mindsets of transformative leaders our nation needs.

After a thrilling two days of debate, Daphine Kemigisha and Jibril Ssekandi from the School of Law (SoL) emerged as winners of the Makerere University Inter-college Debate Tournament 2025, while Olara Emmanuel George from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) was the Public Speech Champion, and Namujuzi Martha Mociita from the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) was the Poetry Champion.

Debate Winners; Daphine Kemigisha (Right) and Jibril Sekandi (Left) from the School of Law (SoL). Organised by the Makerere Debating Union – a student-led initiative, the Inter-college Debate Tournament was held on 11th and 12th April 2025 with a vision to leave no student behind by nurturing a community of confident, articulate, and visionary leaders who will drive positive change in society. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Debate Winners; Daphine Kemigisha (Right) and Jibril Sekandi (Left) from the School of Law (SoL).

The 2025 Tournament was organized by Mayanja Owen and Nkalubo Oprah – 91st Guild Representative Councils (GRCs) of the Debate Union, Akatwijuka Arthur – Chairperson Debate Union, and Debate Union Representatives from colleges. The Uganda National NGO Forum (UNNGOF) partnered with the Debate Union to deliver the 2025 edition.

Addressing students at the award ceremony, UNNGOF’s Mr. Derrick Baluuku encouraged the youth to step out of their comfort zones and think of solutions to inspire change in their communities.

Mak Editor

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