General
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Continues to Touch Lives & Transform Vulnerable Communities
Published
2 years agoon
By
Mak Editor
By Bernard Buteera
On Saturday 3rd September 2023, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University held its 2nd edition of the Annual Community Open Day. The event took place at the Freedom Square, Makerere University. The Community Open Day is an annual event that brings together all Scholars, Alumni, Staff, Mentors, and Partners of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and the entire Makerere University Community, to network and deliberate on ideas for uplifting vulnerable communities.
While addressing the gathering, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Coordinator of the Scholars Program at Makerere University, pointed out that the Community Open Day was a platform for the Scholars Program to connect with the community.

“The purpose of the Annual Community Open Day is to bring together the Scholars and alumni of Mastercard Foundation and the entire University Community to push the agenda of transforming our vulnerable communities.” Prof. Namaalwa pointed out.
Prof. Namaalwa further spelled out the objectives of the Annual Community Open Day as;
- To create a platform for Scholars and Alumni to meet and Network.
- To provide a platform for young Entrepreneurs to showcase their enterprises, market their products and motivate other young entrepreneurs.
- Fundraise for Community give back and community service.
- Create awareness about the Scholars Program activities and ethos at Makerere University
- Encourage individual alumni and Scholars to give back to their communities.

Prof. Namaalwa further highlighted a number of community-transforming initiatives that Scholars and alumni of the Mastercard Foundation at Makerere University had carried out in the recent past just to put a smile on people in vulnerable communities.
She singled out a borehole construction project that Scholars and alumni gifted the community in Iganga district, which previously never had access to clean water. She also highlighted the construction of classroom blocks at Kibaale Primary School, in Mityana district, and St. Katherine Primary School in Agago district.

Prof. Namaalwa then pointed out that the 2023 Community Open Day was a pitch to raise funds to construct a class block as well as purchase desks, and chairs for Achukudu Community Primary School, in Napak District, Karamoja sub-region.
“Our pitch today is to ask all people of goodwill to join us to raise funds to construct a classroom block for the young children in Karamoja so that they can have the opportunity to learn in a friendly environment.” Prof. Namaalwa pleaded.

On his part, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, who represented the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, congratulated the Scholars Program and the Program team for coming up with initiatives like the Community Open Day, which aim at uplifting the lives of vulnerable people.
“On behalf of the University Management, I would like to congratulate and thank the Scholars Program community and the Scholars Program team for initiating such events, which aim at uplifting the lives of the vulnerable people in our communities.” Prof. Alinaitwe remarked.

He further thanked Mastercard Foundation as a whole for the continuous support it has offered to young people in Africa to enable them to attain quality education across different universities including Makerere University.
Prof. Alinaitwe was particularly thrilled by the idea of constructing a classroom block for the young people in the Karamoja sub-region.

“I would like to sincerely thank the Scholars and alumni of Mastercard Foundation for the foresight and championing such community transformation, especially the project of constructing a class bock for the vulnerable young people in the Karamoja sub-region.” He remarked.
Prof. Alinaitwe urged the Scholars Community and the Program team to ensure that quality work is done when the construction of the classroom block commences, and he made a cash contribution of Four hundred thousand shillings (400,000/=) towards the cause.

The Member of Parliament for Bokora County- Napak District, Hon. John Bosco Ngoya, who was the Chief Guest at the Open Day thanked Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University for the visionary partnership that has changed the lives of many vulnerable young people in Uganda and Africa.
“I would like to thank Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University for the visionary partnership that has transformed the lives of many vulnerable young people in Uganda and Africa.” Hon. Ngoya remarked.

Hon. Ngoya further thanked the Scholars and alumni Community of the Mastercard Foundation at Makerere University for choosing to construct a class at Achukudu Primary School in Napak district.
“You have chosen the right community to support, Achukudu Primary School is located at the extreme end of Napak district, which serves over 40,000 people and is shared by three districts” Hon. Ngoya pointed out.

Hon. Ngoya called upon all other good Samaritans to emulate the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University in touching lives and transforming communities.
The honorable Member of Parliament made a personal pledge of One million shillings (1,000,000/=) towards the classroom block construction.

The event was graced by a number of Scholars, Alumni, Mentors, University staff students, and Partners. Among the Partners who made financial contributions towards the class block construction included; DFCU Bank, Post Bank, URA, Katumba Estates, Footsteps Furniture Ltd, and Sion Travels Ltd.
The event was punctuated with a lot of activities and fun which included; Aerobics, a treasure hunt, fun games, exhibitions, and a raffle draw in which guests won different prizes. The next Community Open Day will take place in September 2024.

Bernard Buteera is the Communications and Public Relations Officer, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
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General
Re-Advert: Position of Second Deputy Vice Chancellor
Published
14 hours agoon
March 31, 2025By
Mak Editor
Makerere University is governed by the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, Cap 262. The University is seeking applications from suitably qualified applicants for the position of Second Deputy Vice-Chancellor. The Second Deputy Vice Chancellor holds a pivotal role in financial governance, institutional planning, and administrative leadership.
1. POSITION: SECOND DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR
2. SALARY SCALE: PU2
3: DUTY STATION: MAKERERE UNIVERSITY
4. ROLE
The Second Deputy Vice-Chancellor will report to the Vice–Chancellor and shall:
a) Assist the Vice Chancellor in performance of his or her functions and in that regard shall oversee the finances and administration of the University;
b) Be responsible for the Planning and Development of the University and,
c) Perform such other functions that may be delegated to him or her by the Vice Chancellor or assigned by the University Council.
5. PURPOSE OF THE JOB
To provide strategic leadership and ensure efficient and sound financial, human and fiscal resources management in the University.
6. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
a) Provide leadership in Strategic planning and governance, leadership and administrative experience, Human resource and performance Management, Stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
b) Provide leadership in preparation and implementation of the University’s recurrent and capital budgets.
c) Monitor the development and implementation of the University’s accounting procedures, manuals and other documents relating to financial control and Management as per approved financial regulations.
d) Oversee income and expenditure of all income generating units of the University.
e) Coordinate the production of the University-wide Financial Reports by Colleges and Units.
f) Management of human resources in the University.
g) Oversee the management of University Estates and Assets.
7. CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION
a) Hold a PhD or any other academic doctorate.
b) Be at the rank of associate or full professor level in an institution whose academic ranking is comparable with that of Makerere University as accepted by Senate.
c) Be a Ugandan citizen within the age bracket of 40 to 65 years at the time of application.
7.1 Academic Qualifications
a) Earned a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate should be acceptable by Senate.
b) At least five years of financial or administrative leadership experience at the level of school dean/director or higher in a higher education institution, public service, or corporate institutions.
c) Supervised at least ten (10) postgraduate students (Master’s and Ph.D.) to completion. At least three of the students must be at the PhD level.
7.2 Strategic Planning and Governance
a) Experience in leading large administrative teams at the level of dean or higher, demonstrating efficiency and productivity.
b) Proven record in developing and executing strategic plans, aligning financial and administrative objectives with institutional goals.
c) Evidence of developing and implementing financial policies that have improved financial efficiency, transparency, and risk management.
d) Evidence of implementing organisational restructuring or process improvements to ensure operational efficiency.
e) Ability to develop and implement institutional policies, ensuring compliance with national higher education and financial regulations.
7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience
a) Minimum 5 years of senior academic leadership in a recognized institution comparable with that of Makerere University, as accepted by Senate.
b) Demonstrated experience in managing budgets exceeding UGX 500,000,000=, ensuring financial sustainability and accountability.
c) Proven ability to mobilize resources, secure grants, and attract external funding to support institutional growth.
d) Experience in conducting financial forecasting, cost control measures, and investment strategies to optimize institutional resources.
e) Track record of leading financial audits and compliance assessments in alignment with national and international financial regulations.
f) Experience in handling procurement, asset management, and infrastructure development, ensuring transparency and value for money.
7.4 Human Resource and Performance Management
a) Track record of leading workforce planning, recruitment, and talent development strategies, ensuring a high-performance institutional culture.
b) Experience in implementing performance-based appraisal systems, leading to improved staff efficiency and accountability.
c) Proven ability to foster industrial harmony, resolving labour disputes and improving employer-employee relations.
7.5 Infrastructure Development and Resource Optimization
a) Experience in overseeing capital development projects, ensuring timely delivery and cost efficiency.
b) Track record of overseeing the maintenance and expansion of university facilities, enhancing institutional infrastructure.
c) Proven ability to negotiate and manage contracts for outsourced services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality standards.
7.6 Digital Transformation and ICT Integration
a) Experience in integrating ICT solutions in financial and administrative operations, improving service delivery and efficiency.
b) Evidence steering the automation of financial, procurement, and HR systems, reducing paperwork and improving real-time decision making.
c) Proven ability to implement cybersecurity measures that safeguard institutional financial and administrative data.
7.7 Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration
a) Demonstrated experience in building partnerships with government agencies, donors, private sector investors, and international organizations to enhance institutional funding.
b) Proven ability to engage faculty, students, and staff in financial decision-making, ensuring transparency and inclusivity.
c) Experience in negotiating contracts, partnerships, and collaborations that have led to financial and administrative growth.
7.8 Personal Attributes
a) High level of integrity, transparency, and ethical leadership, with a record of financial prudence.
b) Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, backed by evidence of successfully managing complex financial and administrative challenges.
c) Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement.
d) A visionary leader with the ability to drive financial sustainability administrative efficiency, and institutional growth.
8. REMUNERATION
An attractive remuneration package that is in accordance with Makerere University terms and conditions of service.
9. TENURE
The Second Deputy Vice Chancellor shall hold office for a period of five years and shall be eligible for re-appointment for one more term.
10. METHOD OF APPLICATION
Interested applicants are invited to submit their application letters. The following documents shall comprise a complete application:
a) A signed letter of application;
b) A vision statement;
c) Curriculum Vitae with contact details signed and dated by the applicant;
d) Copies of required minimum number of publications;
e) Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates;
f) Three (3) letters of recommendation;
g) Copies of letters of appointment to leadership positions at the level of Dean of a School in a national accredited university or other academic institution;
h) A copy of the applicant’s National Identity Card or passport;
i) A copy of the last clearance from the Inspector General of Government or other equivalent national body;
j) Referees should be advised to send confidential reference letters, addressed to the Chairperson Search Committee for the Position of Second Deputy Vice Chancellor and delivered directly to the address below by 5:00 pm on Monday 14th April, 2025;
k) The references should cover the following areas: the applicant’s academic credential, experience, leadership, managerial and administrative skills and personal integrity.
Both Hardcopy and Electronic (Email) applications shall be accepted.
(a) Hardcopy applications: Both confidential letters and sealed applications marked
“CONFIDENTIAL: POSITION OF SECOND DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLOR”
should be addressed to:
SECRETARY SEARCH COMMITTEE
THE ACADEMIC REGISTRAR
MAKERERE UNIVERSITY
6TH Floor, ROOM 602, SENATE BUILDING
P. O. BOX 7062, KAMPALA, UGANDA
(b) Electronic media (e-mail) applications should have all the above documents scanned and emailed to search.dvcfa[at]mak.ac.ug by 5.00 pm East African Standard Time on Monday 14th April, 2025.
Please note that:
(a) Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date and time
will not be considered.
(b) Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.
For more Information and inquiries:
Email us on search.dvcfa@mak.ac.ug OR Call Telephone number: +256-414-532634 during working hours (between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday).
MAKERERE UNIVERSITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (PhD)
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR
General
RE-Advert: Position of First Deputy Vice Chancellor
Published
14 hours agoon
March 31, 2025By
Mak Editor
Makerere University is governed by the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, Cap 262. The University is seeking applications from suitably qualified applicants for the position of First Deputy Vice-Chancellor. The First Deputy Vice Chancellor must possess a strong background in academic leadership, teaching, research, and strategic institutional management.
1. POSITION: FIRST DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR
2. SALARY SCALE: PU2
3: DUTY STATION: MAKERERE UNIVERSITY
4. ROLE
The First Deputy Vice-Chancellor will report to the Vice–Chancellor and shall:
- Assist the Vice Chancellor in performance of his or her functions and in that regard be responsible for the Academic affairs of the University
- In the absence of the Vice-Chancellor, perform the functions of the Vice-Chancellor and,
- Perform such other functions that may be delegated to him or her by the Vice Chancellor or assigned by the University Council.
5. PURPOSE OF THE JOB
To provide leadership and Coordination of academic and academic research matters to ensure effective and efficient implementation of policies, teaching and research programmes.
6. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Initiate, obtain approval of policies, plans and programmes that will enhance the academic and professional excellence of the University.
- Initiate, coordinate curriculum development and review for all courses offered at the University.
- Ensure that all examinations are set and marked in accordance with established Regulations.
- Coordinate the appointment of external examiners.
- Oversee the selection and admission of qualified students.
- Oversee the development of research programmes by liaising with Principals of Colleges/Deans of Schools and submit them to Senate and Council for approval.
7. CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION
- Hold a PhD or any other academic doctorate.
- Be at the rank of associate or full professor level in an institution whose academic ranking is comparable with that of Makerere University as accepted by Senate.
- Be a Ugandan citizen within the age bracket of 40 to 65 years at the time of application.
7.1 Academic Qualifications
- Earned a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in a relevant discipline.
- Minimum 5 years of progressive academic experience, including teaching, research, and academic administration at the level of dean of a school or higher.
- At least 20 peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals indexed in Scopus, Web of Science, or equivalent databases.
- Supervised at least ten (10) postgraduate students (Masters and PhD) to completion and graduation; at least three of these students must have been at the level of PhD.
7.2 Strategic Planning & Governance
- Evidence of having served or participated in university-level strategic planning processes including, membership to strategic planning committees and contribution to policy development and institutional growth.
- At least five years of demonstrated experience in academic programme accreditation processes contributing to the securing approvals from the relevant national or international regulatory bodies.
- Demonstrated evidence in leading at least one (1) higher education ICT integration initiative, improving online learning, digital governance, or student information systems or the development of at least one online course curriculum.
7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience
- A minimum of 5 years of senior academic leadership in a recognized institution comparable to that of Makerere University, as accepted by the Senate, at the level of Dean of a School or higher.
- Participated in the development and implementation of at least two (2) academic policies improving quality assurance, curriculum development, or institutional governance.
- Demonstrated ability to lead a school or college, ensuring optimal performance and professional development of members.
- Proven track record of mentoring at least 10 faculty members toward career progression and research output, including co-teaching, publication, and capacity development in areas of teaching and training, grants, research and innovations.
- Participated in at least three (3) university committees or initiatives on academic policy development, research and publications, or student affairs.
- Participation in mediation of at least five (5) student or faculty grievances, ensuring fair and transparent resolutions.
7.4 Teaching, Learning & Curriculum Development
- Led or contributed to the development of at least five (5) accredited academic programmes or curricula at undergraduate and postgraduate level.
- Participated in the Designing and conducting at least 10 faculty development workshops focused on pedagogy, research methodologies, or curriculum advancement.
7.5 Research & Innovation
- Secured at least $200,000 in competitive research grants from national or international funding agencies.
- Established or managed at least one (1) research centre, or college wide research programme or industry-academic partnerships.
- Published a minimum of five (5) books, or 5 book chapters, or patents (separate from the papers in peer reviewed journals), contributing to knowledge production in the discipline.
- Organized at least three (3) international or national research conferences, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
7.6 Financial & Resource Management
- Successfully managed academic budgets exceeding UGX 500,000,000= in a leadership role.
- Led at least two (2) faculty resource mobilisation initiatives, increasing funding for research, scholarships, or infrastructure.
- Secured at least one (1) international academic partnership to enhance funding, student exchange, or faculty development.
- Developed and executed at least three (3) cost-cutting strategies, optimising institutional resources without compromising academic quality.
7.7 Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration
- Built at least five (5) partnerships with government agencies, private sector stakeholders, or international academic institutions.
- Successfully led at least two (2) community engagement or outreach programmes, strengthening university-industry relations.
- Served on or contributed to at least three (3) University, national, or international education policy boards, shaping higher education discourse.
7.8 Personal Attributes
- Proven record of upholding institutional integrity, with no record of financial mismanagement or ethical violations.
- Demonstrated decision-making and problem-solving skills, having led at least five (5) crisis resolution initiatives.
- Recognized for academic leadership excellence, receiving at least one (1 ) award or recognition for contributions to higher education.
8. REMUNERATION
An attractive remuneration package that is in accordance with Makerere University terms and conditions of service.
9. TENURE
The First Deputy Vice Chancellor shall hold office for a period of five years and shall be eligible for re- appointment for one more term.
10. METHOD OF APPLICATION
Interested applicants are invited to submit their application letters. The following documents shall comprise a complete application:
- A signed letter of application;
- A vision statement;
- Curriculum Vitae with contact details signed and dated by the applicant;
- Copies of required minimum number of publications;
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates.
- Three (3) letters of recommendation;
- Copies of letters of appointment to leadership positions at the level of Dean of a School in a national accredited university or other academic institution;
- A copy of the applicant’s National Identity Card or passport;
- A copy of the last clearance from the Inspector General of Government or other equivalent national body.
- Referees should be advised to send confidential reference letters, addressed to the Chairperson Search Committee for the Position of First Deputy Vice Chancellor and delivered directly to the address below by 5:00 pm on Monday 14th April, 2025.
- The references should cover the following areas: the applicant’s academic credential, experience, leadership, managerial and administrative skills and personal integrity.
Both Hardcopy and Electronic (Email) applications shall be accepted.
a) Hardcopy applications: Both confidential letters and sealed applications marked “CONFIDENTIAL: POSITION OF FIRST DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLOR” should be addressed to:
SECRETARY SEARCH COMMITTEE
THE ACADEMIC REGISTRAR
MAKERERE UNIVERSITY
6TH Floor, ROOM 602, SENATE BUILDING
P.O.BOX 7062, KAMPALA, UGANDA
b) Electronic media (e-mail) applications should have all the above documents scanned and emailed to search.dvcaa@mak.ac.ug by 5.00 pm East African Standard Time on Monday 14th April, 2025.
Please note that:
a) Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered.
b) Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.
For more Information and inquiries: Visit our website https://mak.ac.ug/search-for-dvcs OR email us on search.dvcaa@mak.ac.ug OR Call Telephone number: +256-414-532634 during working hours (between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday).
MAKERERE UNIVERSITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR
General
Office of the Academic Registrar Lauded for Groundbreaking Achievements In Digitalization
Published
5 days agoon
March 27, 2025By
Mak Editor
By Gerald Ochwo
On 25th March 2025, a delegation of Registrars from Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) undertook a benchmarking exercise at Makerere University, with a specific focus on the latter’s pioneering efforts in academic records digitalization. The delegation, led by Dr. Dickson Kalungi, Ag. Deputy Academic Registrar was received by Mr. Charles Ssentongo, Deputy Academic Registrar in charge of Admissions and Records Division, who represented the Academic Registrar (AR), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi.
The visit was prompted by Makerere University‘s trailblazing achievements in digitalizing academic records, as exemplified by the Digitalization of Academic Records Project (DARP). This initiative has been instrumental in creating a centralized, digital one stop repository of all University’s academic records, thereby enhancing the efficiency, accuracy, and security of academic records management.
In his welcoming remarks, Mr. Ssentongo conveyed the Academic Registrar’s message and highlighted Makerere University‘s efforts to digitalize all its processes and records. He further noted that the university is intentional about creating a digital ecosystem that makes academic records retrieval easy and efficient.
“As a university, we are now intentional with the digitalization of all our processes including, digitization of our manual records that date as way back as the inception of Makerere University. Currently, the DARP project as gone as far as creating a one stop center for both Academic document verification and certification, whereby our former graduates, will only need to access the online verification and certification portal and submit their documents without necessarily having to travel many physical distances to Makerere University” Mr. Ssentongo remarked.

In his appreciation remarks, the MUST head of delegation, Dr. Dickson Kalungi, thanked the Academic Registrar for honoring their request to come and learn from the best practices that exist at Makerere University and particularly commended the Department for the great steps and strides made in pioneering modern Academic records storage management systems.
“I want to sincerely thank the Office of the Academic Registrar for sparing time and organizing this meeting. As a University, we have embarked on a transformative change drive whereby we intend to automate all our registry processes including, the management of Academic Records. The DARP project at Makerere University, has been one project where we draw a number of lessons and we are eager to go and implement some of the best practices we have observed here today”
Conclusion
The benchmarking exercise undertaken by Mbarara University of Science and Technology demonstrates the significance of Makerere University and particularly, the Office of the Academic Registrar’s achievements in academic records digitalization. The DARP project serves as a model for other institutions to follow, highlighting the importance of investing in digital solutions to enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and security of academic records management. It further demonstrates the university’s commitment to sharing knowledge and best practices with other institutions. Makerere University‘s efforts in digitalizing academic records have set a high standard for other universities to emulate, and the DARP project is a shining example of innovation and excellence in academic records management.
Gerald Ochwo is the Liaison Officer, Office of the Academic Registrar
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