_{By Elvis Lubanga}

The Grants Administration and Management Support Unit (GAMSU) on 29^th June 2023 trained accountants and project administrators at Makerere University on finance policies and procedures regarding grant administration and management, so as to ensure transparency and smooth processes in the auditing of grants.

The training was conducted during a workshop at the Telepresence Conference Hall in the Senate building, Makerere University, which was attended by College Accountants, Project Accountants, and Project Administrators, who gained valuable insights from prominent figures in the university’s financial leadership.

Professor Sylvia Antonia N. N. Tamusuza, the head of GAMSU emphasized the importance of empowering accountants and project administrators with the necessary knowledge and skills to facilitate grant acquisition and ensure compliance. She noted that “GAMSU intends to facilitate the acquisition of grants and promote adherence to policies. “

Evarist Bainomugisha, the University Bursar, highlighted the university’s grant policies and procedures while emphasizing the crucial role of the financial team in supporting grant administration. He cautioned the administrators and accountants to refrain from projects that are not appropriated by the government of Uganda, to avoid adverse consequences during audits.

George Turyamureba, the head of Finance at GAMSU, emphasized the significance of adhering to policies and procedures governing quarterly reporting, which are imperative in grant management.  He added that timely and accurate reporting was highlighted as vital, with accountants playing a pivotal role in providing and updating ledgers on behalf of Principal Investigators.

During the workshop, Turyamureeba highlighted several challenges encountered in the consolidation of the quarterly reports, such as inconsistent reports and information, non-compliance with reporting formats, inadequate knowledge to perform assigned tasks, and mixing reporting currencies, among others.

CPA Christine Ninsiima, an accountant at GAMSU, who facilitated a session on data entry on to the GAMSU database emphasized the need for cooperation among all stakeholders to simplify the reporting process, stating, “If we collaborate, it will be to our advantage.”

Attendees expressed their appreciation for the knowledge shared, which they said it has not left them the same. Mr. Walter Odoch, the College Bursar at COVAB, said that the workshop deepened their understanding of the university’s grant administration policies and provided practical tips for improving the financial reporting process.

Throughout the workshop, interactive sessions and discussions allowed participants to raise questions and seek clarification on specific challenges they faced. The expertise of the GAMSU finance team and administrators, proved instrumental in addressing these concerns and offering practical solutions.