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MUDF Continuation Emphasizes role of Deans in realization of Academic Policies

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The Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-DVCAA organized a continuation of the third Makerere University Deans’ Forum (MUDF) on 21st October 2022 to further acquaint Deans with the policy environment in which they operate. At the previous workshop held on 29th September 2022, Deans received presentations from the Vice Chancellor – Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, DVCAA and Patron MUDF – Prof. Umar Kakumba, Chairperson MUDF Executive Committee and Dean, School of Public Health – Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, Quality Assurance Director (QAD) – Dr. Cyprian Misinde as well as policy highlights from the Deputy Registrar (Senate) – Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi and Deputy Director Research and Graduate Training – Prof. Robert Wamala. Also shared at the previous workshop were past experiences of Deans, Prof. Ronald Bisaso and Prof. John Mango.

Welcoming Deans to the workshop, Prof. Wanyenze said MUDF, the brainchild of Prof. Umar Kakumba, was founded on 14th June 2019 out of the need to create a space for Deans to get together outside Senate, get to know each other better and share common interests. “We have had the opportunity to share what’s challenging us and we have passed these on to our patron the DVCAA.”

She added that orientation of Deans and leaders in the university is an important activity and the workshop was an opportunity to specifically acquaint themselves with the foundations of academic policy. She equally advised Deans to take keen interest in the activities of the MUDF particularly its governance, with elective positions that run for two-year terms, renewable once.

Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze addresses the continuation of the Third Makerere University Deans Forum (MUDF).
Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze addresses the continuation of the Third Makerere University Deans Forum (MUDF).

The role of Dean is clearly spelled out under section 53 of the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA), 2001 (as amended). Subsection (4) of the same states that:


“The Dean or Director shall be responsible for the general supervision and administration for the affairs of the faculty, institute, college or other academic body and as such shall be responsible for the promotion and maintenance of efficient teaching and research in the relevant body.”

section 53, subsection (4), UOTIA 2001 (as amended)

Making a presentation on Academic Policies and Roles of Senate to the Deans, Mrs. Mushengyezi noted that the Senate whose membership consists of Deans has executive, advisory and delegated roles. These are further broken down as; Executive – organisation, control and direction of executive matters, Advisory – initiate academic policy and advise Council on implementation requirements, and Delegated – may delegate any of its powers or functions to a School/College board of studies.  

The membership to Senate as outlined in the UOTIA section 44 2(c) equips Deans to be, “an implementer of the academic policies at the School, a custodian of the polices, an enforcer of regulations and an instructor of students on Policies” explained Mrs. Mushengyezi.

She added that the School Board of Studies; regulates teaching, monitors attendance of students and lecturers, admission of both undergraduate and graduate students as well as progression of students, and approves examination results. “The question you ought to ask as you admit students is, do you have capacity, infrastructure, and human resource required to teach that programme?”

Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi makes her presentation on Academic Policies and Roles of Senate.
Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi makes her presentation on Academic Policies and Roles of Senate.

Mrs. Mushengyezi additionally appraised Deans on the functions of the Academic Programmes and Library Committee which is responsible for approval of developed and revised curricula from departments. She further expounded on the Research and Graduate Training (Higher Degrees) Committee that oversees the appointment of supervisors, internal and external examiners and doctoral committees as well as organises viva voce meetings and public defences of theses.

“The academic leadership role of the Dean is enshrined in the mandate, functions and roles of Senate, hence the Dean is the arm of Senate at the School. Let us all strive to do our best” she concluded.

The roles of Senate and by extension the Deans notwithstanding, whereas the day-to-day affairs of graduate students are handled at each academic Unit, the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT) is expected to coordinate the quality assurance and policy oversight roles. Prof. Wamala therefore shared that the Makerere University Graduate Handbook is a living document informed by several University policies including the; Research and innovations policy, Intellectual Property Management (IPM) Policy, and Conflict of Interest Policy among others. “It is very important for us to have that background information as we guide various committees.”

Prof. Robert Wamala's presentation covered regulations and policies such as the Intellectual Property Management (IPM) Policy.
Prof. Robert Wamala’s presentation covered regulations and policies such as the Intellectual Property Management (IPM) Policy.

Prof. Wamala equally advised Deans to familiarize themselves with the various Masters’ programme plans and the typical progression of PhD programmes from Year Zero (0) to Year Four (4). Makerere University offers four Masters Plans; Plan A – coursework and dissertation, Plan B – Extended Coursework and Project Report, Plan C – Coursework and Comprehensive Examination, and Plan D – Thesis only.

Similarly, the PhD progression consists of; Year Zero (0) – Admission and appointment of supervisors, Year One (1) – Coursework, examination and start of thesis work, Year Two (2) – Continuation of coursework, approval of research topic, and thesis work. Year Three (3) is characterized by thesis work, while Year Four (4) entails conclusion of thesis work, formal approval for thesis defence and actual public defence. All this takes place in the midst of continuous extracurricular writing labs, seminars and conference presentations as well as evaluation.

Prof. Wamala particularly emphasized the need for Deans to appreciate the scope of the IPM Policy and its provisions for Intellectual Property (IP) created by staff and students. Under scope, he shared that the policy applies to all staff members, students and visitors who participate in a research project or produce inventive, creative, scholarly or artistic works.

Further explaining the spirit of the policy, Prof. Wamala shared that the University is the primary owner of all IP created by staff during the course of their employment or contract by the university. However, he noted that exceptions of ownership will be made in cases where IP is created outside the scope of a member of staff’s employment and without substantial use of university resources.  

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-DVCAA and Patron MUDF – Prof. Umar Kakumba.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-DVCAA and Patron MUDF – Prof. Umar Kakumba.

Delivering the day’s concluding remarks, Prof. Umar Kakumba noted that Deans as leaders need to always seek ways of adding value to the institution, especially since it is a living entity that is constantly growing. “At the end of the day we have a contribution to make to our institution either individually or collectively as well as a duty to leave a good legacy.”

He acknowledged that the COVID-19 lockdown had affected the sitting of Advanced Level examinations in 2020 and 2021 and by extension, the admissions process, which the Deans are responsible for at School level. He nevertheless reassured the Deans that the full reopening of the economy had brought forth stability that would henceforth normalise the number of students admitted to the various degree programmes and ease their work.

On initiatives to improve Makerere’s contribution to knowledge generation, the DVCAA and Patron MUDF noted that the university had allocated a portion of Government support through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) to PhD students to enable them complete their research. “What we are targeting for this year is completion; for PhD students to collect data, analyse it and write their reports.”

Prof. Kakumba thanked the Deans for sparing time to attend the workshop and expressed his readiness to continue championing their various causes in the relevant fora.

Mark Wamai

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NCBA Commits UGX 1.45 Billion to Makerere Marathon, Pledges Five-Year Support for Inclusive Education

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (C) flanked by Dr. Maggie Kigozi (R) and Mr. Mark Muyobo (L) on 9th July 2025 at Makerere University. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.

By Eve Nakyanzi and Atwenda Nancy

Makerere University has officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the platinum sponsor for the 2025 Makerere University Marathon (#MakRun2025), marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable student support. The partnership was formally announced during a colourful event held at the university, attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund, and NCBA Bank Uganda CEO, Mr. Mark Muyobo.

NCBA Bank Uganda’s UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship over the next five years is the largest corporate contribution to the Makerere Marathon to date. It underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting quality education, community development, and equity.  Mr. Muyobo said that, “We are driven by the desire to leave every community better than we found it”. He added that the goal is to empower disadvantaged students to live without limitations, describing this initiative as a bold stride toward establishing a world-class international marathon.

Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance.

“This is more than just a sponsorship, it is a strategic partnership built on shared values,” Dr. Kigozi remarked. “With this support, we are positioned to establish a fully equipped Disability Support Unit and a sustainable pool of funds to assist economically disadvantaged students.”

The marathon, slated under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future,” seeks to unify students, alumni, corporate entities, and professional athletes in pursuit of a common cause. At its core, the MakRun2025 promotes active lifestyles, social inclusion, and a sense of communal responsibility.

“It’s not just a race,” Prof. Nawangwe emphasized. “It is a movement to break barriers, change lives, and build a resilient, inclusive university.”

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe poses with the #MakRun2025 photo frame. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe poses with the #MakRun2025 photo frame.

The marathon’s broader impact includes fundraising for students living with disabilities and those facing financial hardship, contributing directly to the university’s Endowment Fund.

A major highlight of the event is the introduction of a full 42.2-kilometer marathon—bringing international standards to the annual run. Organizers have promised a professional, accredited experience with traffic-free routes and ample support for runners.

“This edition will elevate the MakRun into a world-class event,” said Mr. Muyobo. “We are proud to support Makerere University in realizing its dream of a globally recognized marathon that reflects Uganda’s commitment to education and inclusivity.”

Beyond the race itself, the event will feature a vibrant line-up of activities, including music, drama, and games for all age groups. It is designed to foster a festival-like atmosphere that welcomes every member of the community.

Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Officials pose with runners in the Freedom Square.

Organizers and university leaders have extended an open invitation to students, staff, alumni, corporate partners, and Kampala residents to participate, cheer, or donate to the cause.

“Every step taken is a step towards hope for a student,” Dr. Kigozi stated. “Together, we are building a Makerere that cares, includes, and uplifts.”

The partnership is expected to significantly enhance the university’s ability to support underprivileged students and improve campus infrastructure for students with disabilities. It also sets the tone for future collaborations that align with the values of compassion, excellence, and innovation. The fifth edition of the MakRun is scheduled to take place on August 17th, 2025.

The Writers are Interns in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University

Mak Editor

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Re-Advert for Applications for Diploma and Certificate Training

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The Government of Uganda and AFRISA in Collaboration with Makerere University invites
applicants for Diploma and Certificate programs tenable at the College of Veterinary Medicine,
Animal Resources and Bio-security (COVAB).

The details are in the following document:

The deadline for receiving applications will be 25th August, 2025.

Elias Tuhereze

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Mak Marathon Unveils NCBA as Platinum Sponsor

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Left to Right: NCBA Bank CEO-Mr. Mark Muyobo, MakEF Board Chairperson-Dr. Maggie Kigozi and the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe hold the dummy cheque unveiling the UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship for the Makerere Marathon for the next five years. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.

Makerere University has today Wednesday, 9th June 2025 officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon. Formerly known as a fun run, the initiative was rebranded on 27th March 2025 during the launch of its Fifth Edition. This year’s event, #MakRun2025, is slated for 17th August 2025 under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future”.

MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi.

Addressing the Media at a press conference this afternoon, the MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi remarked, “We are deeply honoured and excited to unveil NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of #MakRun2025, with a landmark commitment of UGX 1.45 billion over the next five years.”

Dr. Maggie Kigozi shows her support for #MakRun2025. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Dr. Maggie Kigozi shows her support for #MakRun2025.

Dr. Kigozi further described the unveiling as “a strategic partnership built on shared values and a common vision for inclusive education and sustainable impact,” adding that it would “fast-track the establishment of a fully equipped Disability Support Unit for students living with disabilities, and to build a sustainable pool of funds to support Economically Disadvantaged Students.”

Appreciating the generous sponsorship, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe acknowledged that NCBA Bank had not only made history as the biggest corporate sponsor of #MakRun to date but also aligned with Makerere’s vision to improve the quality of student life. “This is a powerful gesture of trust in our mission and a demonstration of deep corporate citizenship”, he added.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe makes his remarks. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe makes his remarks.

Prof. Nawangwe further thanked NCBA for recognizing that an investment in Makerere University is an indirect investment in the future of Uganda. “The Makerere Marathon is not just a race. It is a movement to establish a fully-fledged Disability Support Unit for students living with various forms of disabilities, and to build a sustainable fund for Economically Disadvantaged Students.”

The Vice Chancellor therefore rallied staff, students, alumni, partners and friends of Makerere to match NCBA’s generous support with vigour and commitment, so as to make #MakRun2025 the most impactful edition since its founding.

Mr. Mark Muyobo makes his remarks at the press conference. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Mr. Mark Muyobo makes his remarks at the press conference.

The Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mark Muyobo thanked Makerere University for giving NCBA Bank Uganda the opportunity to play its part in “shaping Uganda’s future one student, one community, one strength at a time,” adding that #MakRun is a symbol of hope for students living with disabilities as it speaks to Makerere’s core values of inclusion, equity, and excellence.

On a rhythmical note, Mr. Muyobo remarked that the #MakRun2025 theme is “not just about finishing lines, it is about opening doors; giving opportunities to those who are disabled. It is about promoting active lifestyle.”

Runners get flagged off for an evening run after the unveiling ceremony. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Runners get flagged off for an evening run after the unveiling ceremony.

#MakRun2025 will for the first time feature a full 42.2km marathon race with international accreditation and professional timing along a dedicated traffic-free route.

“These are not just upgrades, these are bold steps towards building a world-class international marathon right here in Kampala. We are proud to be the wings at your back as you take this leap because when Makerere University, the beacon of higher learning in Uganda grows stronger, the ripple effects are felt across the region and across the continent” Mr. Muyobo affirmed.

Mr. Mark Muyobo (L) and Dr. Maggie Kigozi (R) pose with the signed MoU. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Mr. Mark Muyobo (L) and Dr. Maggie Kigozi (R) pose with the signed MoU.

To officially seal the deal, a Memorandum of Understanding was officially signed between Makerere University and NCBA Bank Uganda, and thereafter, a dummy cheque of UGX 1.45 billion was presented to Dr. Maggie Kigozi as the Vice Chancellor, Members of Management and NCBA staff witnessed.

Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance.

Mark Wamai

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