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Mak Council Fully Constituted as Four Representatives Swear In

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The Makerere University Council 2022 – 2026 was on 18th May 2023 fully constituted as the last four representatives of Senior Administrative Staff, the Convocation and Students were sworn in by Senior Principal Magistrate Grade I, Entebbe, Her Worship Stella Okwong Paculal. The ceremony, held in the Council Room, was attended by the Vice Chairperson of Council, Rt. Hon. Daniel Fred Kidega, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Members of Management, Staff, families of the representatives, and moderated by the University Secretary and Secretary to Council, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda.

One by one, the representatives led by Mr. Amanya Henry-Senior Administrative Staff took the Oath of the Member of Makerere University Council and the Oath of Secrecy, as their constituents applauded. He was followed by representatives; Mr. Mugabi George Turyamureeba-Convocation, 89th Guild President H.E. Maseruka Robert and 89th Vice Guild President H.E. Namiiro Mariat-Students.

Congratulating the representatives, Her Worship Okwong Paculal said that the oath the new members had taken was one of service and a reminder to already sworn in representatives that the public expected the best from them. Quoting from the Holy Bible, she took the opportunity to remind Members of Council to let their ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes’ and ‘No’, ‘No.’ “We have seen your ‘Yes’ (as you swore in) today and we expect that you will abide by that oath.”

Speaking on behalf of the University Management, Prof. Nawangwe congratulated the newly sworn in representatives, and added “you have been appointed Members of Council of one of the most prestigious universities in the world.”

He reminded representatives that Makerere has been governed by very eminent Members of Council over the last 100 years, and that it was the role of this new Council to take the University to greater heights. “We expect that you will work with maximum integrity to ensure that our University not only remains as prestigious but also moves to a higher level.”

Representing the Chairperson of Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, Rt. Hon. Kidega thanked HW Okwong Paculal for presiding over the ceremony and congratulated the representatives upon being elected to Council by their constituents.

In particular, he congratulated the Guild and Vice Guild Presidents upon their election and requested them to balance between expectations of their constituency and the University Council’s work.

Left to Right: The newly sworn in representatives to Council Mr. Amanya Henry, Mr. Mugabi George Turyamureeba, H.E. Namiiro Mariat and H.E. Maseruka Robert.
Left to Right: The newly sworn in representatives to Council Mr. Amanya Henry, Mr. Mugabi George Turyamureeba, H.E. Namiiro Mariat and H.E. Maseruka Robert.

“We have had beautiful experiences with your predecessors; they had only three months but these felt like three years of work they have done with us. We really congratulate the outgoing leadership for the great work and we urge you to work closely with them and listen to them” added. Rt. Hon. Kidega.

The Vice Chairperson thanked the University Management led by Prof. Nawangwe for keeping the University in good shape. He added that Makerere is at the brink of being research-led, and that the hope of the whole nation was in the University Council and its members to help the institution achieve this objective.

Making mention of the oaths he took as Head Prefect of Ntare School and later as Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly, Rt. Hon. Kidega invited representatives to pay critical attention to the words of the oath they had taken, as a guide to all the work they will undertake as Members of Council.

“Reflect or re-read the commitment you have made to this great University and Council and you will not make any mistakes. I would like to assure you that the University Council is a great place to work. This is my second term and I thank my colleagues who have allowed me to serve as the Vice Chairperson of this great University Council” he added.

The Makerere University Council is made up of twenty-four (24) members with appointees from Government, Council, Senate, Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES), Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED), Ministry of ICT and National Guidance (MoICT) and Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). Other appointees are from the National Union of Disabled Persons in Uganda (NUDIPU), Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA), Makerere University Administrative Staff Association (MASA), Support Staff, Staff with Disabilities, Makerere University Convocation as well as the Students.

The fully constituted Council consists of appointees; Mrs. Lorna Magara (Chairperson), Rt. Hon. Daniel Fred Kidega (Vice Chairperson), and Mr. Edwin Karugire-Government; Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe-Vice Chancellor; Prof. Umar Kakumba-Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs); Prof. Henry Alinaitwe-Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration); Mr. Bruce Kabaasa Balaba, Dr. James L. Nkata, and Mr. George Bamugemereire-Council; Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze and Prof. Sarah Ssali-Senate; Dr. Edward Damulira Sengonzi-MoFPED; Mr. Timothy Musoke Sejjoba-MoES; Mr. Silas Ngabirano-MoICT; Mr. Julius Kateregga-KCCA; Mr. John Chris Ninsiima-NUDIPU; Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi and Dr. Dianah Ahumuza Ateenyi-MUASA; Mr. Amanya Henry-MASA; Mr. Byamukama Jackson-Support Staff; Mr. Amon Muteganda Kabahima-Staff with Disabilities; Mr. Mugabi George Turyamureeba-Convocation; H.E. Maseruka Robert and H.E. Namiiro Mariat-Students.

Mark Wamai

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91st Electoral Commission Promises a free and fair Electoral Process

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By Nickson Maberi

The swearing-in-ceremony for the 91st Students’ Guild Electoral Commission was held on Friday 31st January 2025.  Mr. Joseph Murungi, a commissioner from the College of Health Sciences (CHS) was unanimously chosen as the chairperson of the commision.

Mr. Murungi thanked the good Lord and students for entrusting him with the position and promised to deliver a free and fair electoral process and head a commission that is impartial.

The Dean of Students, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli urged the new commission to execute its duties in line with the Guild statute and Constitution.

“You must execute your duties in line with the Guild statute and Constitution, anything outside that is invalid. I wish you the best and I am looking forward to working with you,” she said.

Ms. Ruth Iteu, the Head of the Online voting team, urged the commission to avoid being caught on the wrong side of the law as it will lead to severe consequences.

Rev. Fr. Josephat Ddungu, the Chaplain of Makerere University St. Augustine Chapel said they will continue to pray for the commission to have a peaceful and successful.

“The Electoral Commission is a very important body and the success of the electoral process depends on you. Please concentrate on doing what is right before the Lord. As your spiritual leaders, our duty is to pray. We are therefore praying for you to have a peaceful and successful election,” he said.

Administrator who urged the commission to always do the right at the right time.

Mr.  Nickson Maberi encouraged the new commission to follow the law and avoid tarnishing the image of the university.

Mr. Joseph Murungi, Commissioner from the College of Health Sciences (CHS) swearing in as Chairperson of the Electoral Commission for the 91st Guild Elections.

“Makerere University elections attract national attention. Please follow the law and be people of integrity to avoid tarnishing the image of the university,” he guided.

Mr. Aston Tayebwa from the College of Natural Sciences was elected as the commission’s General Secretary while Ms Sharon Nyonyozi from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences was elected as the commission’s Vice Chairperson.

Other commissioners include: Mr. Ijoot William from the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Mr. Ntambi Moses from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), Mr. Perez William Mwesigwa from the School of Law (SoL), Alyosius Mutagubya from the College of Computing and Information Science (CoCIS) and Mr. Mugisha Hamidu from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES).

Mak Editor

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KobWeb: RENU’s Community Magazine – 2024 Edition

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Cover page of KobWeb: RENU's Community Magazine, 2024 Edition. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU) is a community-driven, non-profit organization with a major focus on nurturing collaboration among member institutions (i.e. research and education institutions), and global partners. Founded in 2006, RENU has grown from a small National Research and Education Network (NREN) that focused on just connectivity needs of universities and research organisations, to a fast-growing specialized ICT solutions provider for the entire Research and Education (R&E) community including schools, colleges, other tertiary institutions, hospitals, and their end users. RENU is located at House No. 31, The Edge, Makerere University and on Plot 6B, Mabua Road, Kololo, Kampala.

Highlights from the 2024 Edition featuring Makerere:

  • Universities Launch Global Coalition to Support Refugee Education at Scale
    • 16 universities from across the globe have come together to improve and increase access to higher education for refugees and their communities, where they reside. Universities based in Africa, Europe, and North America formed the Global University Academy (GUA) following a workshop hosted by the University of Oslo in June 2024.
    • The GUA is currently looking into the possibility to pilot the initiative in Uganda. Key partners in this work are Makerere University and Gulu University, who are already actively engaged in providing access to higher education for refugees, and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) Uganda.
  • Advancing Child Welfare The AfriChild Centre’s Inter-University Programme
    • The Inter-University Programme, spearheaded by the Centre of Excellence for the Study of the African Child (AfriChild Centre), is a landmark initiative focused on equipping researchers with the essential skills needed to conduct high-quality child-focused research. The success of the Inter-University Programme is built on the strong partnerships the AfriChild Centre has established with universities including Makerere University.
  • Liberate your Mind from the Present and Dream Big to Provide Meaningful ICT Solutions for Research and Education!
    • At the 2024 RENU ICT Directors Forum, Dr. Francis F. “Tusu” Tusubira, the Chief Guest, delivered an electrifying address urging ICT leaders to dream beyond the present and shape the future of research and education. Reflecting on his time at Makerere University, he shared his philosophy of granting autonomy to team members and supporting them unconditionally. “Allow your team to make decisions and mistakes, especially in the current environment, which presents opportunities for learning. Protect them when they make mistakes. Once you do this, your team will build your dream.”
  • Advancing Open Science and Open Access in Africa, with a Focus on Uganda
    • Open Science and Open Access have emerged as transformative movements in the global academic and research community. Their principles—sharing knowledge freely, fostering collaboration, and driving practical solutions to societal challenges—are especially resonant in Africa, where equitable access to resources and innovative solutions are essential for sustainable development. Institutions like Makerere University are driving Open Science efforts by encouraging researchers to adopt open frameworks.

Visit RENU to download full edition

Mark Wamai

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Press Statement: Clarification on Issues Raised During the Ongoing Conversations on the X Platform

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Front View of the reconstructed Main Building, Makerere University. Date Taken 8th November 2024. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Thursday, 06 February 2025

Makerere University Management has been keenly following the concerns raised on the X platform. As a public institution, we value constructive criticism and feedback as these present an opportunity to clarify issues and, in the process, enhance service delivery. However, the University Management has noticed several instances of disinformation and outright blackmail towards various University officers and would like to offer the following clarifications:

  1. Allegations of Solicitation of a Bribe by a Member of the University Council

The University Management received an audio recording in which a staff member is allegedly heard soliciting a bribe from colleagues to assist them in accessing higher positions during the recently concluded salary harmonization process. While the staff member in question is an elected representative of the support staff to the governing University Council, he is neither a member of the Appointments Board nor wields influence on its decisions.

Given the severity of the alleged offence and the position of the staff member, the University initiated immediate investigations and interdicted the staff member on Thursday 30th January 2025 to facilitate the investigation process. The staff member will be given an opportunity to present his case through a fair hearing before the Appointments Board.

  1. Appointment of Substantive Deputy Vice Chancellors

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Finance and Administration (DVC F&A) position became vacant after a legal challenge overturned the initial appointment and halted subsequent searches. After the appellant withdrew the cases, the University Council initiated a new search through the Senate. However, a contestant later petitioned, citing non-compliance with guidelines. The University Council referred the matter back to the Senate, which reviewed it on 12th December 2024. The revised report will be considered at the University Council meeting on 11th February 2025.

  1. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVC AA)

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVC AA) position became vacant on 30th November 2023 upon the end of the incumbent’s tenure. While the University Council was conducting an appraisal for possible reappointment, the DVC AA was appointed in an acting capacity. However, before the process concluded, a member of staff challenged the appraisal in court, making the matter sub judice. Consequently, the University Council deferred further consideration until the court resolves the case.

  1. Promotion Requirements for Associate Professors and Professors.

Academic staff promotions at Makerere University follow the Human Resources Manual (HRM), last amended in 2022. Policy changes are initiated by the Senate and take effect upon Council approval. Promotions are based on the criteria in place at the time, as recorded by the Senate and Council. All Associate Professors and Professors undergo rigorous assessment, including mandatory internal and external vetting by internationally recognized subject experts.

  1. Retirement of Associate Professors and Professors Post-60 Years

Makerere University mandates retirement at 60 in accordance with Ugandan law. To retain highly skilled talent, the University Council introduced a post-retirement contract policy under the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA). The Appointments Board grants or renews these contracts based on outstanding performance in teaching, research, grants, and mentorship, subject to available vacancies and wage funds. Before approval, the University Management assesses the impact on staff promotions, ensuring no disadvantage to qualifying staff within a particular Department.

  1. Membership and Leadership of the University Council and its Committees

The University Council membership is constituted in accordance with Section 38(1) of the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA), which outlines the criteria for appointing representatives from various constituencies, including the Government, staff, students, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), persons with disabilities, and Council appointees.

The constituents are responsible for managing the selection process for their respective representatives. University Council members serve four-year terms, which can be renewed by the respective constituents in accordance with Section 38(3) of the UOTIA. It is important to note that no Council member, current or former, has ever served beyond the period specified by law.

The University Council elects its Chairperson and Vice Chairperson in accordance with Section 39 of the UOTIA. Additionally, the Council establishes the Appointments Board and all its Committees in compliance with Section 43 of the UOTIA and Section 38 of the Council Charter.

  1. Recent Policy Reforms at the University

The University Council has implemented key reforms to enhance service delivery and staff accountability. These include a biometric staff attendance system and the digitalization of student services such as application, admission, registration, fee payment, exam records, and graduation. These measures have improved lecture attendance, expedited transcript issuance, and strengthened student support. University Management and the Appointments Board actively monitor staff performance to reward outstanding performance and ensure compliance.

  1. Disciplinary Processes and Actions Involving Some Staff Members

Makerere University enforces disciplinary policies in line with the Human Resources Manual, Public Service Standing Orders, and Ugandan law. Staff who violate these policies face sanctions such as warnings, suspensions, interdictions, and investigations, all conducted with due process before an Appointments Board hearing. Recently, two senior staff members—one a Council member and the other a School Dean were interdicted over allegations of corruption and non-performance. Their interdiction ensures independent investigations without undue influence.

  1. State of the University Infrastructure

With substantial support from the Government, Makerere University has made significant strides in enhancing its critical infrastructure for teaching, research, and student residences/welfare, alongside initiating new infrastructure projects.

Following the phased approach to renovate student halls of residence, the University Management is pleased to report that the renovation of Lumumba Hall was completed in 2024, while that of Mary Stuart Hall is ongoing. On completion of the renovation of Mary Stuart Hall, the Contractors will proceed to Complex Hall.

The University has constructed two (2) new buildings for the School of Law and School of Dentistry. The Main Building was reconstructed and commissioned by His Excellency the President on 2nd October 2024.

In addition, two (2) structures are currently under construction namely the School of Public Health and the vertical extension of the School of Women and Gender Studies. In addition to Government support, we continue to receive support from our partners for infrastructure enhancement.

We Build for the Future

Mak Editor

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