General
Mak PIs & Project Admins Urged to Harmonize the Grants Administration & Management Policy with other University Laws
By Lubanga Elvis
The call for harmonization aims to ensure that individuals involved in grant projects have a comprehensive understanding of how the University Grants Administration and Management Policy aligns with broader University regulations, fostering a culture of compliance and effective grants management. This was during the Grants Administration and Management Support Unit (GAMSU) workshop on the University Grants Administration and Management Policy held at the Food Science and Technology Conference Hall on September 14, 2023, attended by Principal investigators and Administrators from all colleges and Units, who were given informative sessions on financial and procurement policies, legal and audit procedures associated with grants management.
Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, the University Secretary underscored the importance of understanding the Grants Administration and Management Policy in conjunction with the broader university regulatory framework, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to policy compliance.
During her presentation at the workshop, Prof. Sylvia A. Nakimera Nannyonga – Tamusuza, Head of GAMSU assured attendees that GAMSU will continue to serve as a valuable resource, providing guidance and assistance to Principal Investigators, Grants Administrators, and all stakeholders involved in the grant process under the vision of supporting grant acquisition and promoting compliance.
Mr. Gyaviira Lubowa, deputy University Bursar, shared insights into the financial policies and procedures governing grants at Makerere University, where he clarified on financial aspects and accountability, as key for effective grants management.
“Transparency and financial accountability are non-negotiable in grants management,” Mr. Lubowa emphasized.
Ms. Esther Kabinga, senior legal officer shared insights into legal policies and procedures, where she emphasized the importance of compliance and risk mitigation in grants management.
“At Makerere, we adhere to national guidelines, which means we do not accept grants from terrorist-linked organizations or those prohibited by the Government of Uganda” Ms. Kabinga added.
Mr. Paul Agaba, Manager of Procurement, guided on procurement policies and procedures and their impact on grant-related activities.
“In project Management, Own it! “Be present during deliveries, and don’t compromise on standards” Mr. Agaba explained.
Mr. Patrick Okonyet, Manager Internal Audit addressed audit policies and the importance of transparency and accountability in grant management.
He advised attendees to maintain fiscal prudence and transparency when dealing with project funds and properties.
“Audits are not meant to be feared; they are tools for improvement,” Mr. Okonyet further noted.
Mr. Yusuf Kiranda thanked all participants and emphasized the university’s continuous support towards effective grants administration.
Makerere University on 23rd January 2026 hosted the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) validation meeting of the draft minimum standards for implementing Competence-Based Education (CBE) in Higher Education Institutions. The meeting held in the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium brought together Vice Chancellors, Rectors, Principals and Academic Registrars from Higher Education Institutions in Uganda.
Hosted by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Prof. Sarah Ssali, the meeting followed institutional input into the draft minimum standards and was aimed at validating them prior to their formal adoption by the NCHE Council at their next meeting in February 2026. The minimum standards cover nine areas namely; 1) Curriculum Design, 2) Teaching and Learning Approaches, 3) Assessment, 4) Faculty Training and Support, 5) Student Support Services, 6) Quality Assurance Systems, 7) Industry and Community Linkages, 8) Monitoring and Evaluation, and 9) Gender and Equity Mainstreaming.
Following feedback into presentations by the various leaders present, a motion to adopt the draft minimum standards, with institutional input incorporated, was moved by Bugema University, seconded by UMCAT School of Journalism and Mass Communication, and unanimously supported by institutions present.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Prof. Sarah Ssali appreciated NCHE for choosing Makerere to host the landmark event, reiterating that the University greatly respects each and every Higher Education Institution and regards them as partners and collaborators in the quest to improve Uganda’s Higher Education sector.
The Executive Director NCHE, Prof. Mary Okwakol reassured leaders present that all the pertinent issues raised for input into the draft minimum standards would be incorporated, and urged those with pressing issues to submit them before month’s end. She reiterated NCHE’s readiness to continue lobbying Government for the resources required by Higher Education Institutions, particularly Public Universities, to implement Competence-Based Education (CBE).
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