General
6th Kampala Geopolitics – Proudly Associated with Mak
Published
2 years agoon

The sixth (6th) edition of the Kampala Geopolitics Conference got underway at 10:00 AM on Tuesday 17th October 2023 in the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium with the partners expressing pride at being associated with Makerere and what the University represents. It was truly a day for the century-old institution to bask in the limelight as accolade after accolade poured in.

“We are here today together because Makerere University is actually a temple of knowledge, a temple of academic freedom, of research, of science and of humanity” remarked the Ambassador of France to Uganda, H.E. Xavier Sticker. “We are together in this temple because we are believers in Makerere University, we are partners today and beyond on a number of other activities, but we are also believers in what university represents… the words are so close between university and universality” added the Ambassador.
“We at Konrad-Adenauer Foundation are very pleased to once again co-host this prestigious conference alongside the French Embassy in Uganda, Makerere University, UN Women and the Alliance Française” continued Mr. Nils Wörmer, the Director of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung’s (KAS) Regional Programme Security Dialogue for East Africa.

“Every time I come to this great university I feel proud and privileged” exuded UN Women Country Representative, Dr. Paulina Chiwangu. “We have some of the great leaders from the region who went through this great university, the likes of William Mkapa, former President of Tanzania, the likes of Julius Kambarage Nyerere, the father of the Nation of Tanzania” she added.
Dr. Chiwangu further lauded the Kampala Geopolitics Conference as “a beacon of intellectual discourse” dedicated to achieving several vital objectives namely; creating a dynamic platform that bridges expertise between Europe and Africa, as well as fostering open conversations in a manner that is both creative and informative.

It was on this creative and informative note that the Director of Alliance Française Kampala, Mr. Eric Touzé shared that his organization in addition to teaching French promotes the local Ugandan cultures in their own languages. “Thus it is quite natural that as part of the Kampala Geopolitics 2023, the Alliance was tasked with developing a program of cultural and artistic events… the idea is to introduce as a counterpoint to scholarly discussions, moments of reflections, moments of relaxation and moments of beauty.”

Mr. Touzé then took time to introduce the artists; Charlene Komuntale and Mona Taha, whose art pieces hang from the auditorium walls. “The Ugandan, East African and African cultural and creative industries are key to the geopolitics of the region and the works presented here reflect this” he added, thereafter, introducing Destiny Gladys Chaiga a poet and spoken word artist. Destiny is a first cohort fellow at the Content Catalyst Program under the Media Challenge Initiative funded by the French Embassy in Uganda. On the occasion, she recited one of her pieces, “Voices of Africa’s Renaissance”.

In his welcome remarks, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Umar Kakumba shared that it was truly an honour and a privilege for Makerere University to annually provide a platform to debate current geopolitical trends in light of sustainable development, global peace and international cooperation. He noted that a lot has transpired on the global scene since Makerere University held the first Kampala Geopolitics Conference on 26th and 27th October 2018, most notably, the advent and rapid growth of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as well as COVID-19 and its aftermath.
“One of the most important lessons that the pandemic taught us was the need to embrace blended teaching and learning, as an approach to ensure that we not only reconstruct our nations but also create more innovative ways of extending our services to our wider stakeholder communities” remarked Prof. Kakumba.

He was pleased to note that the 6th Kampala Geopolitics Conference would be accessible to both physical and virtual audiences. In this regard, he thanked the French Embassy and partner institutions for their generous contributions that have made the Kampala Geopolitics Conference an annual highlight on the calendars of staff, students, alumni, stakeholders and experts from various fields.
The 6th Kampala Geopolitics Conference was not only about applauding Makerere University as host but also deliberating on pertinent geopolitical issues by various thought leaders and experts. The topics covered by various panels included;
- Scenarios for Somalia and the Region after ATMIS moderated by Dr. Susanne Conrad (Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Headquarters, Germany) with panelists;
- Lt. Gen. Osman Noor Soubagle – Djibouti Armed Forces, former Commander of AMISOM,
- Ms. Samira Gaid – Regional Analyst, Horn of Africa, and
- Ms. Selam Tadesse Demissie – Research Officer, Horn of Africa Security Analysis – Institute for Security Studies (ISS).
- The Role of Cultural and Creative Industries for the African Soft Power moderated by Mr. Fredrick Nsibambi – The Cross Cultural Foundation of Uganda (CCFU), with panelists;
- Ms. Barbra Atusasiire – Director, TASSLES Films,
- Mr. Philip Luswata – Lecturer, Makerere University, and
- Ms. Phina Mugerwa (aka Masanyalaze) – Artist, Musician, General Secretary for the Uganda Musicians Association.
- The New Scramble for Africa – Emerging Geopolitics and International Relations in Africa moderated by Mr. Charles Mwanguhya Mpagi – Journalist, NBS, with panelists;
- Prof. Kasaija Phillip Apuuli – Department of Political Science, Makerere University,
- Dr. Nansozi K. Muwanga – Executive Director, Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC),
- Mr. Ahmed Hadji – Senior Fellow, Africa Institute for Strategy and Policy, and
- Mr. Louis Namwanja Kizito – Partner at Pentagon Advocates.
- Closing the Global Digital Divide – Advancing Digital Inclusion and Economic Opportunities for All moderated by Mr. Richard Ndahiro – Technical Advisor, Inclusive Finance & Fintech (UNCDF), with panelists;
- Ms. Diana Akullu Wanyama – Intervention Manager for Market Infrastructure at the Financial Sector Deepening (FSD) Uganda, and
- Ms. Renita Nabisubi – Lead Digital Economy, Mastercard Foundation (virtual attendance).
- East Africa as Part of the “Indo Pacific Theatre” moderated by Mr. Konstantin Krome – Policy Advisor German Armed Forces and Civil Affairs, Konrad Adenauer Foundation Headquarter, Germany, with panelists;
- Mr. Ahmed Hadji – Senior Fellow, Africa Institute for Strategy and Policy,
- Mr. Mohamed Abdilahi Duale – Director General, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Somaliland,
- Mr. Abdullahi Hamud Mohamed – Executive Director, Management Institute for National Development (MIND) Somalia, and
- Mr. Mohamed Abdoulkader Moussa – Director, Institute of Diplomatic Studies of Djibouti.
- The Rapidly Growing African Population – Is the Continent Set for a Demographic Dividend? moderated by Dr. Allen Kabagenyi – Senior Lecturer, Department of Population Studies, Makerere University with panelists;
- Assoc. Prof. Sarah Ssali – Dean of the School of Women and Gender Studies, Makerere University,
- Dr. Peter Kisakye – Lecturer at the Department of Population Studies, Makerere University,
- Mr. Samuel S. Omwa – Ag. Director General of the National Population Council, Uganda, and
- Dr. Fred K. Muhumuza – Director of the MUBS Economics Forum.
- Water Governance, Transboundary Water, Peace and Democracy moderated by Mr. Andrew Aijuka – Environment Multimedia Journalist, InfoNile with panelists;
- Mr. Bosco Asiimwe – Director, Democratic Governance & Strategic Studies, The Center for Multilateral Affairs,
- Dr. Callist Tindimugaya – Commissioner for Water Resources Planning and Regulation in the Ministry of Water and Environment,
- Mr. Lucas Cornet – Consultant, Water & Sanitation, The World Bank, DR Congo, and
- Mr. Marc Trouyet – Country Director of the French Development Agency (AFD) in Uganda.
- Empowering the Youth of Effective Leadership and Participation – Opportunities and Challenges moderated by Mr. Emolot Allan David – Chairperson of the Independent Continental Youth Advisory Council for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), with panelists;
- Ms. Thembela Misibi – Vice Chairperson of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Youth Advisory Council (virtual attendance),
- Ms. Esther Pomwene – Professional Assistant to the Presidential Advisor on Economics and Green Hydrogen Commissioner in Namibia (virtual attendance), and
- Ms. Maleehah Khandwalla – Project and Programme Coordinator at the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Youth Advisory Council (virtual attendance).
Beyond the panel sessions were a workshop on Fact Checking and Artificial Intelligence (AI) delivered by Mr. Edgar Mathew Karuhanga, a Fact Checker with the Debunk Media Initiative. The initiative is in a process of building an AI platform to detect and alert the public on disinformation, misinformation and malinformation.
The 6th Kampala Geopolitics Conference was moderated by Mr. Patrick Kamara, a senior reporter and talk-show host at NTV Uganda.
Please click the embedded videos below to view event proceedings.
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General
Press Statement: Makerere 76th Graduation Ceremony
Published
2 days agoon
January 28, 2026By
Mak Editor
Makerere University’s 76th graduation ceremony will be held from February 24th – 27th, 2026, at the Makerere University Freedom Square, starting at 8.30am. During the 76th graduation ceremony, we shall confer degrees and award certificates to 185 PhDs, 2034 Masters, 6,043 bachelors, 137 postgraduate diplomas and 33 diplomas.
I am proud to announce that in comparison to the 75th graduation, we have registered a 30% growth in graduate student output. This is a result of our strategic decision to prioritize graduate education per our research-led agenda.
I also wish to announce that the transcripts have been finalized and are ready for pick up. Today, I am handing over the ready transcripts to the College principals and can be picked up from respective Colleges even before the graduation ceremony.
Important to Note:
In preparation for the graduation ceremony, the University wishes to note the following:
- Pre-graduation clearances
Graduands are reminded to clear all necessary payments such as tuition and all graduation
fees. It is also important to check with your College to ensure your name is on the graduation
list and all mandatory clearances with university officials have been finalized. Note and
internalize the graduation schedule (attached) to know which day you are graduating. - Securing the graduation gowns
Graduation gowns will be issued starting from 2nd February 2026 from the University Hall (Dinning Hall), Monday to Friday, from 9am to 4pm. To collect your gown, check and ensure your name appears on the Senate Graduation list, present your student number or National ID, and proof of payment for the gown. - Security requirements
- Attendance: For each day of graduation, entrance to the graduation ground will be by invitation only. Graduands will be issued with invitation cards which permits two guests per graduand. Do not come with more than two people or they will not be allowed access to the graduation venue. Graduands are encouraged to arrive to settle at the Freedom Square by 7am on graduation day to for a seamless flow of planned activities including the necessary security checks.
- Prohibited items: Prohibited items include firearms, sharp instruments like mirrors and knives, alcohol, cell or batteries and chemicals, canned food and drinks, laptops, flashes and hard disks, radios including pocket radios, bottled drinks, cameras, large bags or any other heavy items.
- Media: All media and journalists who wish to cover the ceremony must be pre-accredited by the Makerere University Public Relations office or they will not be allowed to access the ceremony venue. The access point for accredited media personnel will be the Senate Building.
- Parking: There will be two designated parking areas; Rugby Grounds for those coming through the Eastern and Main Gate; and the second one is the Makerere University Main Grounds at Makerere College School. For VVIPs, VIPs and procession parking will be at CTF1, Directorate of Legal parking, St Francis and St Augustine parking, JICA and Senate Building.
- Access Control: To ease traffic flow and management, the University has planned three access points to the graduation venue: the School of Social Sciences, Senate Building and the University Swimming Pool.
- For help and inquiries
- Starting February 2, 2026, the Academic Registrar ’s Office and Graduation Committee will set up an information tent outside the Senate Building to provide guidance and handle all inquiries pertaining to graduation.
General
Re-Advert for the Position of the Second Deputy Vice Chancellor
Published
3 days agoon
January 27, 2026By
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:
- Assist the Vice Chancellor in performance of his or her functions and in that regard shall oversee the finances and administration of the University;
- Be responsible for the Planning and Development of the University 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 strategic leadership and ensure efficient and sound financial, human and fiscal resources management in the University.
6. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provide leadership in Strategic planning and governance, leadership and administrative experience, Human resource and performance Management, Stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
- Provide leadership in preparation and implementation of the University’s recurrent and capital budgets.
- 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.
- Oversee income and expenditure of all income generating units of the University.
- Coordinate the production of the University-wide Financial Reports by Colleges and Units.
- Management of human resources in the University.
- Oversee the management of University Estates and Assets.
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 should be acceptable by Senate.
- 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.
- 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
- Experience in leading large administrative teams at the level of dean or higher, demonstrating efficiency and productivity.
- Proven record in developing and executing strategic plans, aligning financial and administrative objectives with institutional goals.
- Evidence of developing and implementing financial policies that have improved financial efficiency, transparency, and risk management.
- Evidence of implementing organisational restructuring or process improvements to ensure operational efficiency.
- Ability to develop and implement institutional policies, ensuring compliance with national higher education and financial regulations.
7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience
- Minimum 5 years of senior academic leadership in a recognized institution comparable with that of Makerere University, as accepted by Senate.
- Demonstrated experience in managing budgets exceeding UGX 500,000,000=, ensuring financial sustainability and accountability.
- Proven ability to mobilize resources, secure grants, and attract external funding to support institutional growth.
- Experience in conducting financial forecasting, cost control measures, and investment strategies to optimize institutional resources.
- Track record of leading financial audits and compliance assessments in alignment with national and international financial regulations.
- Experience in handling procurement, asset management, and infrastructure development, ensuring transparency and value for money.
7.4 Human Resource and Performance Management
- Track record of leading workforce planning, recruitment, and talent development strategies, ensuring a high-performance institutional culture.
- Experience in implementing performance-based appraisal systems, leading to improved staff efficiency and accountability.
- Proven ability to foster industrial harmony, resolving labour disputes and improving employer-employee relations.
7.5 Infrastructure Development and Resource Optimization
- Experience in overseeing capital development projects, ensuring timely delivery and cost efficiency.
- Track record of overseeing the maintenance and expansion of university facilities, enhancing institutional infrastructure.
- Proven ability to negotiate and manage contracts for outsourced services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality standards.
7.6 Digital Transformation and ICT Integration
- Experience in integrating ICT solutions in financial and administrative operations, improving service delivery and efficiency.
- Evidence steering the automation of financial, procurement, and HR systems, reducing paperwork and improving real-time decision making.
- Proven ability to implement cybersecurity measures that safeguard institutional financial and administrative data.
7.7 Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration
- Demonstrated experience in building partnerships with government agencies, donors, private sector investors, and international organizations to enhance institutional funding.
- Proven ability to engage faculty, students, and staff in financial decision-making, ensuring transparency and inclusivity.
- Experience in negotiating contracts, partnerships, and collaborations that have led to financial and administrative growth.
7.8 Personal Attributes
- High level of integrity, transparency, and ethical leadership, with a record of financial prudence.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, backed by evidence of successfully managing complex financial and administrative challenges.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement.
- 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 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 Second Deputy Vice Chancellor and delivered directly to the address below by 5:00 pm on Friday 13th February, 2026;
- 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.
- 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
- Electronic media (e-mail) applications should have all the above documents scanned and emailed to search.dvcfa@mak.ac.ug by 5.00 pm East African Standard Time on Friday 13th February, 2026.
Please note that:
- Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered.
- Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.
- Applicants who responded to the advertisements published on 31st December 2025 (The New Vision) and 2nd January 2026 (The Daily Monitor) do not need to re-apply.
For more Information and inquiries:
Visit our website https://mak.ac.ug/search-for-dvcs OR 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. Mukadasi Buyinza
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR
General
Press Statement: Makerere University Congratulates Former Staff and Students on Successful Election to Public Office
Published
3 days agoon
January 27, 2026By
Mak Editor
Makerere University warmly congratulates its former staff and students who emerged victorious in the 2026 national elections. Their success is a source of immense pride to the University and a strong affirmation of Makerere’s efforts to not only nurture academic excellence but also free expression and leadership. It is evidence of Makerere’s enduring impact and contribution to leadership, public service, and national development.
We are particularly pleased to recognize the following distinguished members of the Makerere University community who emerged victorious:
- Dr. Kiyonga Crispus Walter, Chancellor of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Bukonzo West.
- Rt. Hon. Tayebwa Thomas, former Chair, Finance, Planning, Administration, and Investment Committee of the University Council, on his re-election unopposed as MP for Ruhinda North and approval by the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) as Deputy Speaker 12th Parliament.
- Mr. Kabaasa Bruce Balaba, Chair, Finance, Planning, Administration, and Investment Committee of the University Council, on his election as MP for Rubanda County West.
- Hon. Nobert Mao, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Laroo-Pece.
- Mr. Alionzi Lawrence, former Guild President of Makerere University, on his election as Lord Mayor of Arua City.
- Mr. Maseruka Robert, former Guild President of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Mukono South.
- Mr. Gyaviira Lubowa Ssebina, former Deputy Bursar of Makerere University, on his election as MP for Nyendo–Mukungwe.
- Prof. Lubega George Willy, former Staff at College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), on his election as MP for Bugangaizi South.
- Prof. Ahebwa Wilber Manyisa, former Staff at College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), on his election as MP for Nakaseke North.
- Dr. Asiimwe Florence Akiiki, former Staff at College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), on her election as Woman MP for Masindi District.
- Dr. Kasigwa Gerald, former Staff at College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), on his election as MP for Kigorobya County.
- Hon. Adeke Anna Ebaju, former Guild President, on her re-election as Woman MP for Soroti District.
- Hon. Onekalit Denis Amere, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Kitgum Municipality.
- Hon. Karuhanga Gerald, former Guild President, on his re-election as MP for Ntungamo Municipality.
- Hon. Aber Lillian, former Vice Guild President, on her re-election as Woman MP for Kitgum District.
- Hon. Nyamutoro Phiona, former Vice Guild President, on her election as Woman MPfor Nebbi District.
- Dr. Lakisa Mercy Faith, former Vice Guild President, on her election as Woman MP for Alebtong District.
- Ms. Lenia Charity Kevin, former Vice Guild President MUBS, on her election as MP for Vurra County.
- Dr. Nambassa Shamim, former Guild President, on her election as LC V Woman Councilor for Kawempe South.
- Dr. Nalukwago Judith, former Vice Guild President, on her election as LC V Woman Councilor for Makindye West.
- Ms. Nattabi Margaret, former Vice Guild President, on her election as Female Youth Councilor for Mukono Municipality.
- Mr. Kizito Abasi, former Guild Minister, on his election as LC V Chairman for Lwengo District.
- Ms. Ssonko H. Namuganga, former Guild Minister, on her election as Female Youth Councilor for Kalungu District.
Makerere values dialogue, democracy, and responsible citizenship, and continues to make deliberate and progressive efforts to enhance participation in leadership and governance. We are confident they will serve with dedication, wisdom, and integrity.
We Build for the Future.
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