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HURIPEC Launches Report: Institutional Oversight in Crisis & Management of Uganda’s Covid19 Funds

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The Human Rights and Peace Centre (HURIPEC), School of Law (SoL), Makerere University launched its report analysing transparency and accountability concerns over the management and oversight of Covid19 funds in Uganda; the report is a result of a one-year research initiative by the centre. Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Deputy Speaker of Parliament of Uganda was the Chief Guest at the event held on the 26th April, 2023 at Imperial Royale Hotel, Kampala-Uganda.

In his welcome remarks, Dr. Busingye Kabumba, Director – HURIPEC welcomed participants to the launch. He said, ‘this is a special time for HURIPEC as we celebrate 30-years of existence’; he applauded the team headed by Dr. Zahara for the exciting report that is being launched which illustrates cause and effect of corruption as well as the importance of engaging citizens. Dr. Busingye noted that the report comes at a time where we are in the midst of another scandal i.e., the Iron Sheets for Karamoja which were diverted.

Dr. Zahara Nampewo, Deputy Principal-SoL who was the Principal Investigator (PI) of the research presented highlights of the report. She explained that the academic-led research initiative was intended to enhance citizen engagement in promoting transparency and accountability in public expenditure. The initiative was also aimed at stimulating Parliament to oversee the use of public resources in times of crisis. She thanked Open Society, East Africa who funded the research.

Dr. Nampewo said, ‘the report focuses on institutional oversight of both state and non-state actors in management of Covid19 funds focusing on the importance of transparency and accountability in managing public emergencies’. Some of the report findings include:

  • While Uganda has elaborate statutory instruments for oversight, the national response framework for Covid19 dealt with multiple challenges like lack of transparency, ambiguities in procurement to accountability deficits.
  • The rising need for transparency and accountability initiatives for Covid19 funds reflects limitations of institutional mechanisms to make government accountable for use and management of resources for health emergencies.
  • Uganda government’s response to Covid19 has been overshadowed by instances of waste, mismanagement, and blatant corruption.
  • Issues like delayed disbursements, unlawful procurement, political use of monetary and other reliefs, diversion of funds, and information deficits have led many districts to deal of pandemics in their own ways in spite of the many guidelines.

Dr. Nampewo added that lessons from the Covid19 pandemic should be viewed as an opportunity to learn and adopt concrete measures for dealing with health and other related emergencies. Some recommendations from the report include:

  • Establish a Comprehensive Crisis Response Framework by government that helps to identify, assess, control risks and review crisis response mechanisms.
  • Development of simplified set of procurement guidelines for use during crisis.
  • Operationalisation of a Contingencies Fund by government to support a faster and swift response in times of crisis.

In his remarks, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa commended HURIPEC and School of Law for the work that they do in protecting human rights of the people. Hon. Tayebwa who is an alumnus of SoL expressed his happiness to be back and excited to receive the recommendations of the report. The Deputy Speaker applauded the groundbreaking work and noted that this particular report is important because it is a useful contribution when Parliament reviews the Auditor General’s forensic audit of Covid19 expenditure.

Hon. Tayebwa further said, ‘Parliament is ready to work with CSOs, researchers and academicians in understanding national issues better. This is because as observers they are in position to offer critical and objective analysis than executive or legislature who are implementors’. He noted that absence of transparency and accountability by government institutions affects Uganda’s strategy to reach middle income status.

The Deputy Speaker highlighted Section 26 of the Public Finance Management Act, 2015 as amended which defines establishment of a Contingency Fund (0.5% of National Budget) advising that it should be implemented. This would guard against emergency expenditures which are abused. He also called for value-for-money audits beside the process audits which are undertaken.

Professor Henry Alinaitwe, Deputy Vice Chancellor – Finance & Administration, Makerere University represented the Vice Chancellor; he thanked the Deputy Speaker for making the time to attend the launch. He thanked HURIPEC and SoL for the work that they do which keeps the Makerere University flag high and offer solutions to national development challenges.

A panel discussion of the report moderated by Professor Joe Oloka-Onyango with panelists Hon. Wandera-Ogalo and Hon. Dicksons Kateshumbwa was held to review the findings and recommendations of the report.

Some of the issues arising from the panel discussion and contributions from the audience included:

  • Funds will never be enough; however, government commitment is handling priorities is a key consideration
  • Appreciation of the work by HURIPEC in producing the report
  • Question about the powers of the presidency
  • Conflict of interest in the Attorney General serving as advisor to executive and legislature
  • Role of social media and citizen journalism has created visibility for issues affecting the population

The meeting was closed by Professor Ronald Naluwairo, Principal-SoL. He thanked the participants for honoring the invitation by HURIPEC, SoL to attend the launch and for the lively discussion held. He also expressed the pride that SoL and Makerere have in observing the work by Hon. Tayebwa in Parliament as an alumnus of Makerere University and SoL. The Principal also applauded Dr. Zahara and team for the good work in producing the report.

Professor Naluwairo said, ‘beside teaching of the law, the mandate of SoL includes cutting edge research on national issues, this report is an example of our work’. The Principal highlighted the role that SoL plays in convening stakeholders to discuss issues affecting the population including controversial ones. He expressed the commitment of SoL in continuing to provide a civic space for the discourse.

The Report is available for download on the HURIPEC website: www.huripec.mak.ac.ug

Zaam Ssali

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Pre-Entry Examinations for Admission to Bachelor of Laws 2025/26

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Students sit for an exam in the pre-COVID era, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.

The Academic Registrar Makerere University announces that the Pre-Entry Examination for admission to the Bachelor of Laws for 2025/2026 will be held on Saturday 12th April, 2025 from 9am – 12pm.

To be eligible to sit the examination, Applicants must possess the minimum admission requirements of the University, and any one of the following specific requirements:

  1. A’ Level leavers: Must hold an ‘O’ Level Certificate (UCE) or its equivalent with at least 5 Passes plus ‘A’ Level Certificate (UACE) or its equivalent having obtained a minimum of 13 points (Males) and 12 points (for Females) in any ‘A’ Level combination for both Humanities and Sciences. Candidates who did ‘A’ Level before 2013 should have 15 and 14 points for male and female applicants respectively.
  2. Diploma Holders: Must possess at least a 2nd Class or Credit Diploma from a recognised institution. Certified Copies of Diploma Transcripts (No Provisional Results) from the Awarding Institutions must be attached to the Application Forms.
  3. Mature Age Applicants: Must have passed the Makerere University Mature Age Entry Examination (for Bachelor of Laws) for February 24, 2024 and December 14, 2024.
  4. Degree Holders: Must be graduates in any Discipline from a Chartered University. Certified Copies of Degree Transcripts (No Provisional Results) from the Awarding Institutions must be attached to the Application Forms. (Degree holders are not eligible for Government sponsorship)

Note:

  • All applicants wishing to be admitted to the Bachelor of Laws programme offered by Makerere University are required to sit and pass the pre-entry examination of Makerere University.
  • All applicants interested in Government sponsorship, must have applied for Bachelor of Laws( LAW) by filling in the Government application form. All applicants interested in Private Sponsorship for Bachelor of Laws (LAW) -Day and Afternoon (LLA) will apply afresh when the advert comes out.
  • All applicants who hold diplomas and degrees must present a certified copy of the academic transcript. Provisional results shall not be accepted to register for this examination.
  • Applicants should note that admission is based on performance in the pre-entry examination and intake capacities for private day and private afternoon for all categories i.e. ‘A’ level, Diploma Holder, Mature Age, Degree holder and international applicants.
  • All applicants must attach a PDF Format of scanned copies of their original academic documents, original identification documents (A’ level former school IDs, the rest should have valid IDs s ) and the most recent coloured passport size photograph with a white background as shall be specified on the online application portal.
  • Each Applicant MUST without fail avail his/her e-mail address and an active mobile phone number that will be used appropriately as may be required to reach out to her/him in case of any communication after submitting the application. Applicants are encouraged to regularly check with the e-mail address/ mobile phone number availed/ application account(portal) for any future communication/information.
  • All Applicants with visual impairment are advised to come with laptops installed with the computer BRAIL Programme which they will use to write/sit for their pre-entry examination.

Further information detailing how to submit the application are contained in the document below:

The closing date for submitting the completed online Application Forms is Thursday 10th April, 2025.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

Mak Editor

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75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University: SoL Best Performing Students, Alado attains 1st Class

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A Montage of the Best Overall LLB Student of the 75th Graduation Ceremony, Mr. Alado Lawrence who attained a First Class Degree with a CGPA of 4.56 and the Best LLB Female Student, Ms. Nakalema Stella Maris who attained a Second Upper Class Degree with a CGPA of 4.26. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

At the 75th Graduation Makerere University School of Law (SoL) presented a total of 285 graduands including (3) Doctor of Laws (LLD), (48) Master of Laws (LLM) and (234) Bachelor of Laws (LLB). 

The Bachelor of Laws awardees were 98 female and 136 male. Mr. Alado Lawrence emerged the best student among the LLB class attaining a 1st Class degree with a CGPA of 4.56; Ms. Nakalema Stella Maris who attained a Second Upper Class was the best performing female student with a CGPA of 4.26.

Best LLB Graduand: Alado Lawrence

Alado Lawrence, a humble soft-spoken gentleman who hails from Lira District in the northern region of Uganda emerged the best student attaining a 1st Class for the LLB with a CGPA of 4.56 out of 5.00. First class degrees are very rare at SoL; Lawrence is the 15th graduand to have attained this class of degree since 1971 when Makerere University produced the first LLBs.

Mr. Alado Lawrence, best performing LLB student who attained a 1st Class degree. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Alado Lawrence, best performing LLB student who attained a 1st Class degree.

Lawrence is number four in a family of 6 children born to Mr. Okio Patrick (businessman) and Mrs. Angom Juspine Okio (a farmer).

In his words, he hopes to specialize in International Law; his inspiration is the environment he witnessed in his community following the Kony insurgence and war which lasted over a decade. The situation was dire with families separated, displaced communities, abduction of children, deaths and widespread poverty in the region.

When asked if he thought he would perform highly when he joined SoL, he said, ‘initially no, because everyone said the LLB was hard. However, he worked hard and got the results’. I am grateful to the support from my father and mother, lecturers and collegiality of fellow classmates, he added.

His message to other students, “Each of us, by taking actions in our lives, can achieve impossible results. Our dreams are not beyond reach and by diligence and determination, we can not only accomplish them but even exceed them. Therefore, I encourage every dreamer to take relentless action and never give up. Everything is possible to whoever believes it so”.

Best Female Graduand: Nakalema Stella Maris

Nakalema Stella Maris is a cheerful lady with a twinkle in her eye, she emerged the best performing female student for the LLB attaining a Second Class Upper with a CGPA of 4.26 out of 5.00.

Stella Maris hails from Buvuma District, the 3rd child among 4 children born to Mr. Nsubuga William (an Economist) and Ms. Nagujja Judith (a teacher).

Ms. Nakalema Stella Maris, best performing female LLB student. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Nakalema Stella Maris, best performing female LLB student.

Her message to other students, “Success in law school is not just about talent but about consistency, discipline, and resilience. My journey has taught me the importance of hard work, collaboration, and learning from others. To my fellow students, remember that every challenge is an opportunity to grow, and every setback is a lesson in disguise. Don’t fear the challenges; embrace them. Don’t aim for perfection; aim for progress. Stay curious, remain humble, and never lose sight of the values that make you passionate about the law. Together, we can inspire change and build a better society. The best is yet to come!”

Congratulations to all the SoL high performers, a further 13 LLB graduands also attained Second Class Upper.   

Zaam Ssali

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75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University:  School of Law presents Graduands

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SoL Graduands celebrate after being conferred upon their awards. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The 75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University commenced on Monday 13th January 2025.  The School of Law (SoL), College of Computing and Information Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, and College of Education and External Studies presented graduands for conferment of degrees.

Performers lead the Academic Procession to the Mak75thGrad Ceremony. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Performers lead the Academic Procession to the Mak75thGrad Ceremony.

SoL presented a total of 285 graduands including (3) Doctor of Laws (LLD), (48) Master of Laws (LLM) and (234) Bachelor of Laws (LLB).  

Group Photo of SoL Graduands and Faculty. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Group Photo of SoL Graduands and Faculty.

The Doctor of Laws were awarded to Woliya Gwokyalya (Ms.), James Nkuubi (Mr.) and Oscar Kamusiime Mwebesa (Mr.).  Master of Laws were awarded to 21 female and   27 male while the Bachelor of Laws awardees were 98 female and 136 male. Mr. Alado Lawrence emerged the best student among the LLB class attaining a 1st Class degree with a CGPA of 4.56; Ms. Nakalema Stella Maris was the best performing female student with a CGPA of 4.26. 14 LLB graduands attained Second Class Upper.    

Mr. Alado Lawrence, best performing LLB student who attained a 1st Class degree. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Alado Lawrence, best performing LLB student who attained a 1st Class degree.
Ms. Nakalema Stella Maris, best performing female LLB student. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Nakalema Stella Maris, best performing female LLB student.

Speaking to the congregation, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe – Vice Chancellor, Makerere University welcomed everyone to Makerere University’s 75th Graduation. He congratulated the 13,658 graduates, including 143 PhD recipients, 53% female graduates and 47% male graduands who will be awarded degrees through the graduation week. He commended the efforts of staff, parents, and sponsors in supporting the students’ journeys. Professor Nawangwe praised the milestones of Makerere’s Colleges and Schools, including the new building for the School of Law officially opened on 18th December, 2024 by Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni – First Lady and Minister for Education & Sports. The modern facilities in the building will enhance the working and learning environment for staff and students respectively.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe speaking during the Graduation. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe speaking during the Graduation.

Prof. Nawangwe reiterated Makerere’s transformation to a research-led institution supported by the government funded Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF). “We are addressing national priorities, such as improving the Parish Development Model and advancing e-governance,” he stated. The Vice Chancellor also congratulated Dr. Crispus Kiyonga on his appointment as Chancellor and urged graduates to leverage their education to create solutions for societal challenges.

Professor Nawangwe advised the graduands thus, ‘We have equipped you with the knowledge and skills that will make you employable or to create your own businesses and employ others. Do not despair if you cannot find employment, instead reflect on the immense opportunities around you and raise them as an entrepreneur.’

Professor Puleng LenkaBula, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of South Africa (UNISA) delivered the commencement speech where she called on the graduands to remain resilient and emancipate Africa’s people. Her address titled “The Power of Resilience – African Woman, Find Your Generational Mission and Redefine Your Worth”, Professor LenkaBula highlighted the critical role of African women in shaping the continent’s destiny.

Prof. Puleng LenkaBula, Vice Chancellor of the University of South Africa delivering her commencement lecture. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Puleng LenkaBula, Vice Chancellor of the University of South Africa delivering her commencement lecture.

Professor LenkaBula expressed gratitude for being invited to such a significant occasion and extended greetings from South Africa, including from UNISA’s Chancellor, former South African President Dr. Thabo Mbeki. She praised Makerere University for its legacy of academic excellence and contributions to the African continent, emphasizing its role in anti-colonial struggles, post-colonial development, and its steadfast commitment to African unity. She called for a renewed focus on gender equity in academia and leadership, noting the disproportionate burdens faced by women in society. Citing the achievements of Makerere University in gender mainstreaming, she expressed optimism about the role of young leaders in dismantling patriarchal systems and fostering inclusive development.

Professor LenkaBula concluded her address to graduands with a call to action: “Your graduation is not merely a personal achievement but a contribution to Africa’s collective progress. History has thrust upon you the task of creating a future defined by resilience, innovation, and equality.”

In his remarks, Dr. Crispus Kiyonga – Chancellor, Makerere University congratulated graduands upon making it to the 75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University. Dr. Suruma expressed his appreciation of His Excellency the President and First Lady/Minister of Education and Sports for giving him the opportunity to serve Uganda and for the continuous support extended to Makerere University, requesting the congregation to join him and give them a warm applause.  Dr. Kiyonga reiterated President Museveni’s directive to Makerere University to integrate the teaching of political economy across all courses to enhance students’ understanding of the country’s socioeconomic conditions. The directive, welcomed by the university’s top management, will be incorporated into the curriculum to align education with the needs of the people and the nation.

Dr. Crispus Kiyonga addressing the congregation. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Crispus Kiyonga addressing the congregation.

He expressed appreciation that the government has pledged to bolster Makerere’s research funding and he encouraged the University to strengthen partnerships with the private sector to commercialize innovations developed at the institution.

The new Chancellor pledged support to the University management in saving its land and urged that an agro-industrial park be established. “This park would serve three purposes: teaching, generating income, and acting as a demonstration site for communities across the country,” Dr. Kiyonga noted. He also emphasized the urgency of addressing Uganda’s food insecurity, highlighting that 40% of children in the Rwenzori region are stunted, with malnutrition affecting most regions of the country.

Dr. Kiyonga also pointed out Africa’s underperformance despite its vast resources, describing it as a contradiction. “It is our responsibility to change the conditions of our people and ensure Africa rises to its potential,” he urged.

The ceremony was graced by Hon. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, Minister of State for Primary Education, who represented the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni. Other dignitaries included members of Parliament, the judiciary, the diplomatic corps, and academics.

The Minister lauded Makerere University for its dedication to academic excellence and innovation. “Today reflects the resilience, hard work, and commitment of our graduates, supported by the university staff, management, and parents,” she said. The Minister commended the Vice Chancellor and management for fostering research and innovation while urging them to maintain robust quality control systems to uphold the institution’s integrity.

Min. Kaducu representing the Minister of Education. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Minister of State for Primary Education Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu represented the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni.

She also reflected on Makerere’s recent milestones, including the commissioning of a new School of Law building and the launch of the School of Graduate Studies and Research. “Your achievements stem from hard work, transparency, and accountability. They set Makerere apart as a leader in higher education,” she noted. Addressing the graduates, Hon. Kaducu encouraged them to apply their skills to solve societal challenges. “Makerere has equipped you with critical thinking and creativity. Use this to seize opportunities, make a difference, and shine wherever you go,” she concluded.

During the 75th graduation ceremony held from the 13th -17th January, 2025, a total of 13,658 graduands will be awarded degrees and diplomas in various disciplines. Of these, 143 will receive PhDs, 1,813 Masters Degrees, 243 postgraduate Diplomas, and 11,454 Bachelor’s Degrees. 53% of the graduands are female and 47% are male.  44% of the PhD graduands are female. A total of 491 graduands will receive first class degrees.  

Some of the LLB students in the Graduation tent. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the LLB students in the Graduation tent.

Zaam Ssali

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