Connect with us

General

Dr. Onoria, Members of Staff Appeals Tribunal Sworn In

Published

on

The New Chairperson, Dr. Henry Onoria and Members of the Makerere University Staff Appeals Tribunal were on Thursday 16th November 2023 sworn in to commence their four-year term by Her Worship Evelyn Najjuuko, Senior Grade One Magistrate, Wakiso Court. On hand to witness the swearing-in ceremony were the Chairperson of Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson Appointments Board, Mr. Edwin Karugire, Chairperson Legal, Rules, Privileges and Estates Committee, Mr. George Bamugemereire and Members of Council; Dr. Diana Ahumuza Ateenyi, Dr. Deus Kamnyu Muhwezi and Mr. Jackson Byamukama.

Members of University Management present included the Acting (Ag.) Vice Chancellor, Prof. Umar Kakumba, Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Dean of Students, Mrs. Winifred Kabumbuli, University Bursar, Mr. Evarist Bainomugisha, Ag. Director Human Resources, Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni, Ag. Director Estates and Works, Eng. Darius Muwanguzi, Ag. Director Internal Audit, Mr. Patrick Akonyet, and Ag. Director Legal Affairs, Mr. Hudson Musoke. Staff Associations were equally well represented by their executives and leaders namely; Chairperson Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA), Dr. Robert Kakuru, Chairperson Makerere University Administrative Staff Association (MASA), Mr. Bennet Magara and Ag. Chairperson National Union of Educational Institutions (NUEI), Mr. Isaac Okello. The Ag. Head, Human Rights and Peace Centre (HURIPEC), Dr. Busingye Kabumba was in attendance.

Vice Chancellor Welcomes Tribunal Members

Welcoming all present Prof. Kakumba appreciated God for the wonderful opportunity to witness the swearing in of the Staff Appeals Tribunal, one of the important organs of the University. He noted that systems, structures and processes enable institutions such as Makerere to not only exist but thrive. This, in the case of the Staff Appeals Tribunal, is achieved by inculcating a harmonious level of co-existence when contradictions emerge.

The Acting Vice Chancellor-Prof. Umar Kakumba (Left) interacts with Dr. Henry Onoria during the event. Makerere University Staff Appeals Tribunal Swearing-In Ceremony, 16th November 2023, Mestil Hotel, Kampala Uganda.
The Acting Vice Chancellor-Prof. Umar Kakumba (Left) interacts with Dr. Henry Onoria during the event.

“The tribunal is such an important organ to handle issues related to grievances, reconciliation and foster the strategic vision of the institution” said the Ag. Vice Chancellor. He therefore congratulated and thanked Dr. Onoria for accepting to come back to his alma mater and head this important organ.

“We are looking forward to your contribution towards fostering the strategic vision of Makerere University as a thought leader in knowledge generation for societal transformation and development” he added.

Chairperson Appointments Board pledges Cordiality

In his brief remarks, Mr. Karugire couldn’t help but share with the audience how he constantly reminds fellow Council Members how he is more Makererean that they are, having been born, raised, educated and now actively serving on the Governing body. “And so it is an honour and a privilege to serve at this great institution.”

He pledged on behalf of the Appointments Board to ensure that in the exercise of its mandate, his Council Committee would strive to make the Tribunal’s workload is lighter. This, he noted, would be achieved by placing Makerere’s mission to provide transformative teaching and learning as well as research environment responsive to national and global needs at the core of all activities.

The Chairperson Staff Appeals Tribunal-Dr. Henry Onoria (Left) shakes hands with the Chairperson Appointments Board-Mr. Edwin Karugire (Right) at the swearing-in ceremony. Makerere University Staff Appeals Tribunal Swearing-In Ceremony, 16th November 2023, Mestil Hotel, Kampala Uganda.
The Chairperson Staff Appeals Tribunal-Dr. Henry Onoria (Left) shakes hands with the Chairperson Appointments Board-Mr. Edwin Karugire (Right) at the swearing-in ceremony.

Mr. Karugire added that the achievement of this mission requires highly motivated, disciplined and committed staff, which makes keeping them (staff) accountable very important. “In this regard, the Appointments Board as well as the Tribunal have different but complimentary roles.”

He concluded by saying that he was looking forward to working with the distinguished members of the tribunal to serve the great Makerere and renewed his pledge to foster a cordial working relationship between the Appointments Board and Tribunal.

New Tribunal Members Sworn In

Dr. Henry Onoria (Left) shakes hands with Dr. Robert Kakuru (Right) as the University Secretary, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda (Centre) introduces him to leaders in attendance. Makerere University Staff Appeals Tribunal Swearing-In Ceremony, 16th November 2023, Mestil Hotel, Kampala Uganda.
Dr. Henry Onoria (Left) shakes hands with Dr. Robert Kakuru (Right) as the University Secretary, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda (Centre) introduces him to leaders in attendance.

The University Secretary, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, who moderated the event shared that Makerere University Staff Appeals Tribunal is by law made up of eight members including a Chairperson; appointed by the Chancellor, and representatives from the University Council (1), University Senate (1), MUASA (2), MASA (2) and the Ministry of Public Service (1). At the time of the swearing-in, the Ministry of Public Service was yet to nominate its representative. As such, the members present were sworn in as listed below;

  1. Dr. Henry Onoria – Chairperson
  2. Rt. Hon. Daniel Fred Kidega – Council Representative
  3. Assoc. Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala – Senate Representative
  4. Ms. Rhoda Nalubega – MUASA Female Representative
  5. Dr. Fred Maniragaba – MUASA Male Representative
  6. Ms. Sarah Wegosasa – MASA Female Representative
  7. Mr. Joseph Kalema – MASA Male Representative

HW Najjuuko Calls for Confidentiality

Following the administration of oaths, Her Worship Najjuuko congratulated Members of the Staff Appeals Tribunal upon being sworn in and reminded them that “with great power comes great responsibility.

Her Worship Evelyn Najjuuko makes her remarks after presiding over the swearing-in ceremony. Makerere University Staff Appeals Tribunal Swearing-In Ceremony, 16th November 2023, Mestil Hotel, Kampala Uganda.
Her Worship Evelyn Najjuuko makes her remarks after presiding over the swearing-in ceremony.

“I pray that you are able to run this office for the term that you are appointed. Please serve it with integrity, professionalism, and I need to emphasize, with confidentiality…and may God bless and keep you,” remarked Her Worship. She concluded by observing that there was no Muslim member of the Tribunal and prayed that there would be one at the next opportunity.

Acceptance Remarks by Dr. Onoria

Delivering his acceptance remarks, the Chairperson of the Staff Appeals Tribunal thanked all present for sparing time to come and witness the swearing-in ceremony. However, he was quick to add that he looked forward to receiving the eighth and final member, the nominee from the Ministry of Public Service. He went on to share that as one who completed his Bachelor of Laws in 1992 and returned to teach for fourteen years from 1998 to 2011, it gave him great pleasure to come back and serve Makerere University, where he spent a significant part of his adult life.

“From where I stand, this is a great opportunity to do one final round in terms of service to the University because I’m not getting any younger…what I can pledge as we start after this tribunal inauguration and swearing-in is that we begin to look at how to fast track resolving some of the matters that have been pending for over six months” said the Chairperson.

The New Chairperson of the Staff Appeals Tribunal, Dr. Henry Onoria delivers his acceptance speech. Makerere University Staff Appeals Tribunal Swearing-In Ceremony, 16th November 2023, Mestil Hotel, Kampala Uganda.
The New Chairperson of the Staff Appeals Tribunal, Dr. Henry Onoria delivers his acceptance speech.

The pending cases notwithstanding, Dr. Onoria was particularly happy that the Staff Appeals Tribunal is guided by rules of procedure, and thanked the Legal, Rules, Privileges and Estates Committee of Council for drafting them. He was also pleased that the Tribunal’s membership was largely made up of staff, who will offer a deeper understanding of the cases presented by aggrieved colleagues. “The constituency brings a lot to work out how best to resolve disputes and I am hoping that with the team that is continuing their tenure, my tasks will be much easier as Chair.”

He thanked the Chairperson Appointments Board for his commitment to a culture of collaboration, which will help map out the best ways of resolving disputes as they arise. “I want to thank everybody for coming and I look forward to executing this role…may God bless everybody on the tribunal and give us wisdom and understanding,” he prayed.

Concluding Remarks by Chairperson of Council

Concluding the day’s remarks, the Chairperson of Council expressed pleasure at participating in the inauguration of the Staff Appeals Tribunal and thanked Her Worship for presiding over the swearing-in of the new team. She congratulated Dr. Onoria, the new, as well as continuing members upon being appointed to serve in the critical role.

Mrs. Lorna Magara (Left) delivers her remarks after the swearing-in ceremony. Makerere University Staff Appeals Tribunal Swearing-In Ceremony, 16th November 2023, Mestil Hotel, Kampala Uganda.
Mrs. Lorna Magara (Left) delivers her remarks after the swearing-in ceremony.

“The University Council looks forward to your team as a strong pillar of the university’s grievance handling mechanism, which should promote good governance, foster staff confidence and motivation and at the end of the day, improve service delivery” remarked Mrs. Magara. She equally thanked the outgoing Chairperson Justice John Patrick Mashongo Tabaro and his team for their service to the university.

The Chairperson of Council reiterated that the overarching goal of the Makerere University Strategic Plan to position the institution as “a sustainable research-led and responsive university with a highly productive workforce churning out versatile graduates” ought to remind staff of the shared responsibility to deliver on the national development agenda and to push collectively to achieve the plan’s targets.

Rt. Hon. Daniel Fred Kidega, Vice Chairperson of Council and Council Representative to the Staff Appeals Tribunal swears in. Makerere University Staff Appeals Tribunal Swearing-In Ceremony, 16th November 2023, Mestil Hotel, Kampala Uganda.
Rt. Hon. Daniel Fred Kidega, Vice Chairperson of Council and Council Representative to the Staff Appeals Tribunal swears in.

Turning to the Staff Appeals Tribunal, Mrs. Magara was pleased to note that Dr. Onoria not only has the legal experience and knowledge but also an emotional attachment to the university as a former staff and student. She nevertheless cautioned that the rule of law ought to be the cornerstone of service, “whether in Council, whether in Management or the Staff Tribunal.”

The swearing-in ceremony was followed on 16th and 17th November 2023 by inauguration and orientation activities for members of the Staff Appeals Tribunal as well as relevant Council Committees. The University Secretary also used the occasion to recognise Dr. Josephine Ndagire and Mr. Peter Eneru, the Secretary and Clerk of Staff Appeals Tribunal respectively as well as Mrs. Naome Kiconco Ocheing and Ms. Annet Nakayovu as staff who contribute to its smooth running.

Ms. Sarah Wegosasa (C) assisted by HW Evelyn Najjuuko (L) and Mr. Peter Eneru (R) swears in. Makerere University Staff Appeals Tribunal Swearing-In Ceremony, 16th November 2023, Mestil Hotel, Kampala Uganda.
Ms. Sarah Wegosasa (C) assisted by HW Evelyn Najjuuko (L) and Mr. Peter Eneru (R) swears in.

Mark Wamai

General

Strengthening Collaboration between Makerere University and the University of Groningen

Published

on

Seated: Prof. Sarah Ssali (C), Dr. Dinie Bouwman (L) and Dr. Anita Veltmaat (R) with teams from Makerere University and the University of Groningen during the meeting on 7th October 2025. Strategic meeting between Makerere University and the University of Groningen, Netherlands to move beyond existing collaborations and formalize a new Double Doctorate (PhD) program, 7th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

A significant development unfolded at Makerere University during a strategic, hour-long meeting in the vice chancellor’s boardroom on 7th October 2025, marking a deepening bond with the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. The primary goal was to move beyond existing collaborations and formalize a new Double Doctorate (PhD) program. Prof. Sarah Saali, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, set the tone by emphasizing that institutional partnerships are crucial to Makerere University, which she proudly called the leading research and most collaborative university in the world.

The parties from Makerere University and the University of Groningen meeting in the Vice Chancellor's Boardroom. Strategic meeting between Makerere University and the University of Groningen, Netherlands to move beyond existing collaborations and formalize a new Double Doctorate (PhD) program, 7th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The parties from Makerere University and the University of Groningen meeting in the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom.

The discussion promptly formed the core structure of the program: a four-year PhD (or three if the master’s was research-based), with supervision duties split 50-50% between the two institutions. A key feature is the mobility requirement, stipulating that PhD candidates would spend a total of six months in the Netherlands, potentially divided into two three-month periods. Crucially, the University of Groningen confirmed there would be no teaching requirement during this stay, allowing students full access to focus on their research. A major financial hurdle was overcome with the adoption of a fee-waiver policy; Makerere would waive tuition for incoming Groningen candidates, and Groningen would reciprocate for Makerere‘s students, significantly boosting the program’s financial viability.

Prof. Sarah Ssali (R) presents a Mak Souvenir to Dr. Anita Veltmaat. Strategic meeting between Makerere University and the University of Groningen, Netherlands to move beyond existing collaborations and formalize a new Double Doctorate (PhD) program, 7th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali (R) presents a Mak Souvenir to Dr. Anita Veltmaat.

However, the critical issue of the stipend remained. Dr. Anita Veltmaat explained that to meet the required living standard of approximately €1,875 per month in Groningen, the incoming candidate must secure a partial external scholarship of around €250 per month. The positive news is that if the candidate secures this minimum scholarship, the University of Groningen is prepared to top up the amount to the full living standard for the six months the student spends in the Netherlands. It was noted that this initial financial hurdle might be simplified for Makerere students, as many are already staff members receiving a salary, which could help cover the required €250.

The meeting in session. Strategic meeting between Makerere University and the University of Groningen, Netherlands to move beyond existing collaborations and formalize a new Double Doctorate (PhD) program, 7th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The meeting in session.

The path forward was clear: it was to complete the agreement template guided by the setup committee from both institutions. The plan culminated in scheduling an online follow-up meeting for Tuesday, November 11th, to review the first revision of the agreement, capping a highly constructive discussion that solidified the two universities’ shared future in graduate education.

The Team from Makerere University from Left to Right: Dr. Ruth Nsibirano, Dr. Racheal Nuwagaba, Dr. Patricia Ndugga, Dr. Stella Achen, Dr. Joseph Watuleke, and Ms. Agatha Ainemukama. Strategic meeting between Makerere University and the University of Groningen, Netherlands to move beyond existing collaborations and formalize a new Double Doctorate (PhD) program, 7th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Team from Makerere University from Left to Right: Dr. Ruth Nsibirano, Dr. Racheal Nuwagaba, Dr. Patricia Ndugga, Dr. Stella Achen, Dr. Joseph Watuleke, and Ms. Agatha Ainemukama.

Makerere University was represented by Prof. Sarah Ssali, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academics Affairs; Dr. Ruth Nsibirano, Head of the Department of Gender Studies; Dr. Patricia Ndugga, School of Statistics; Dr. Stella Achen and Dr. Joseph Watuleke, School of Distance and Lifelong Learning; Agatha Ainemukama, School of Engineering; Racheal Nuwagaba, School of Psychology; Awel Uwihanganye, Martine Rugamba, and Hawa Ndagire from the Advancement Office; and Muhammad Kiggundu from the Institute of Gender and Development Studies.

Prof. Sarah Ssali (R) presents a Mak Souvenir to Mrs. Alette Arendshorst. Strategic meeting between Makerere University and the University of Groningen, Netherlands to move beyond existing collaborations and formalize a new Double Doctorate (PhD) program, 7th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali (R) presents a Makerere Souvenir to Mrs. Alette Arendshorst.

The University of Groningen was represented by Dr. Dinie Bouwman, Senior Policy Advisor, Internationalization and Quality Assurance; Dr. Anita Veltmaat, Faculty of Social Behavior and Social Sciences, Department of International Studies, involved in mentorship programs for women; and Dr. Alette Arendshorst, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, working on graduation/collaboration for students/staff.

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

Makerere and Nelson Mandela University Move to Actualize Existing MoU

Published

on

Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta (6th L) and Prof. Azwinndini Muronga (5th L) with the delegation from NMU and officials from Makerere after the meeting on 7th October 2025. Delegation from Nelson Mandela University (NMU), South Africa meeting with officials from Makerere University on 7th October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University on Tuesday, 7th October 2025 hosted a delegation from Nelson Mandela University (NMU), South Africa in the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom in a bid to strengthen academic partnerships and operationalize their existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The delegation, led by Prof. Azwinndini Muronga, Deputy Vice Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Internationalisation, NMU, aimed to turn earlier agreements into actionable collaborations and build sustainable partnerships with various colleges.

The Acting (Ag.) Deputy Vice Chancellor; Finance and Administration, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, provided an overview of the institution’s structure—nine colleges, two schools, and two institutes—while acknowledging the challenges of maintaining excellence amid resource limitations and post-pandemic recovery. He emphasized that collaboration must serve the broader goal of research-driven development, calling for teamwork and resilience among African universities. “We have to work together to sustain high academic standards and contribute to the continent’s progress,” he noted.

Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta (L) presents a Mak necktie to Prof. Azwinndini Muronga (R). Delegation from Nelson Mandela University (NMU), South Africa meeting with officials from Makerere University on 7th October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta (L) presents a Mak necktie to Prof. Azwinndini Muronga (R).

Prof. Muronga spoke passionately about the NMU’s “African footprint agenda.” He urged both institutions to start with small, practical projects that can build confidence and momentum for larger initiatives.  “We must grow partnerships within Africa first,” he stated, “before we expand globally. True collaboration begins when both sides contribute equally, share capacity, and build self-reliance.”

Prof. Muronga also expressed interest in joint research projects, doctoral supervision, and shared grant applications, noting that NMU and Makerere are strategically positioned to lead regional academic innovation.

In her remarks, Prof. Judy Peter, Senior Director in the International Office at NMU emphasized the University’s commitment to African-centered collaboration and the importance of internationalizing the curriculum and expanding research capacity.

Prof. Peter underscored the importance of student mobility, joint supervision of postgraduate students, and the recruitment of talented African scholars, noting that such exchanges enrich both institutions’ academic communities. She also emphasized the need to internationalize the curriculum, particularly through virtual learning platforms and co-teaching models, to ensure broader accessibility and shared expertise.

Contributions also came from Prof. James Wokadala, Deputy Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), further amplified the need to “start small and build on existing collaborations.” He proposed developing a clear roadmap that defines short-term goals and identifies areas for mutual growth.

From the College of Health Sciences, Dr. Richard Idro, the Deputy Principal highlighted opportunities for fellowship, training and collaboration in clinical subjects, emphasizing the need for practical exchanges that benefit students and staff alike. He also addressed logistical challenges such as transportation and coordination, urging for targeted partnerships that can yield tangible results.

Some of the Makerere officials that attended the meeting from Left to Right: Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Dr. Richard Idro, Prof. James Wokadala, Prof. Eric Awich Ochen, and Prof. Godfrey Akileng. Delegation from Nelson Mandela University (NMU), South Africa meeting with officials from Makerere University on 7th October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the Makerere officials that attended the meeting from Left to Right: Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Dr. Richard Idro, Prof. James Wokadala, Prof. Eric Awich Ochen, and Prof. Godfrey Akileng.

The meeting reaffirmed the universities’ commitment to collaboration in areas including faculty exchange for guest lectures, seminars, and sabbaticals; joint research and grant applications for regional and international funding; co-supervision of postgraduate students; virtual classroom exchanges; curriculum internationalization and exchange of academic materials; and capacity development for academic and administrative staff.

The teams also identified “quick-win” projects that could be implemented in the short term and agreed to establish a joint implementation team to monitor progress. Further discussions will explore funding mechanisms, including the possibility of leveraging programs like Erasmus+, to support student exchange and joint research initiatives.

In his closing remarks, Prof. Muronga reaffirmed Nelson Mandela University’s commitment to ensuring that the partnership yields visible outcomes. Both universities agreed that future engagements will be structured around mutual respect, accountability, and measurable results.

The meeting concluded on a note of optimism, with both institutions expressing confidence that their partnership will not only advance academic excellence but also contribute to Africa’s broader vision of educational and research self-reliance.

The meeting was attended by several officials from Makerere including; Prof. Eric Awich Ochen-Deputy Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze-Deputy Principal, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Prof. Godfrey Akileng-Dean School of Business, Dr. Geoffrey Nuwagaba-CoBAMS, Mr. Martine Rugamba-Ag. Chief Advancement Office, and Ms. Hawa Kajumba-Advancement Office.

Eve Nakyanzi

Continue Reading

General

Vice Chancellor Updates Media on DVC AA Appointment, Acquisitions, Research & Various Issues

Published

on

Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (C) flanked by DVCAA-Prof. Sarah Ssali (2nd L), Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta (2nd R), AR-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (R) and Guild President-H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James (L) at the press briefing on 7th October 2025. Council Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe on Tuesday 7th October, 2025 held a press conference to update members of the Media on the; New Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Acquisition of Land in Kyankwanzi, Acquisition of 3 buses from Kiira Motors, Anti-Tick vaccine, Makerere Innovation Hub upgrade, Promotion of Student Freedoms and Responsible Leadership, Student Allowances, and Staff Hires and Exits.

The event held in the Council Room, Main Building, was attended by the DVC AA-Prof. Sarah Ssali, Ag. DVC F&A-Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Academic Registrar-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Dean of Students-Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, Chief Human Resources Officer-Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni, Deputy Chief – Public Relations-Ms. Eunice Rukundo, 91st Guild President-H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James and staff from the Offices of the Vice and Deputy Vice Chancellors.

The proceedings of the Press Conference follow below;

Vice Chancellors’ Press Statement

I welcome the media to this briefing. I would like to start by thanking our staff for their diligent and dedicated service to our University and Country.

In our teaching and learning, Makerere University seeks to respond to real-world problems within clearly defined industries and economic sectors. We align core university interventions with social economic transformation, by leveraging partnerships, technology, creative arts, sciences, research and innovations. We are committed to creating an enabling environment for both students and staff in order to produce graduates who are globally competitive, relevant and responsive to development needs.

To this end, we have made some strides that I would like to share, starting with the introduction of the new Deputy Vice Chancellor – Academic Affairs.

1. Introduction of the New Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)

Makerere University Chancellor Dr. Crispus Kiyonga on September 23rd 2025, appointed Professor Sarah Evelyn Nabwire Ssali as the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs. Prof. Ssali has had a distinguished career at Makerere University spanning over two decades. Until her appointment, she was the Acting Director of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), having previously served as Dean of the School of Women and Gender Studies (2017–2024). She is also the Director of the Centre of Excellence in African Identities under the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA). An accomplished scholar, Prof. Ssali is a Professor of Gender and Development Studies and a prolific researcher. Beyond academia, she has contributed significantly to university governance, and also played a leading role in curriculum reviews and policy reforms.

I warmly congratulate Prof. Sarah Ssali on her appointment and look forward to her leadership in steering academic affairs to greater heights.

2. Acquisition of Land in Kyankwanzi Land

The University is delighted to report that, on September 26th, 2025, Makerere University officially received one square mile (approximately 640 acres) of land from the Government of Uganda. This land, located in Kyankwanzi District, has been earmarked for the establishment of a Makerere University Agro-Demonstration and Training Facility.

This facility will serve as a living laboratory for practical agricultural training, research, and community engagement. It will host demonstration farms, improved livestock breeds, and innovative technologies designed to transform subsistence agriculture into a productive, market-oriented enterprise. Through this initiative, Makerere will train farmers and extension workers in modern farming practices, sustainable land use, pest and disease control, climate-smart agriculture, and agribusiness management.

    The Kyankwanzi project aligns with Makerere University’s broader mission to generate and disseminate knowledge that directly impacts communities and supports Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.

    3. Makerere Acquires 3 buses from Kiira Motors

    I am pleased to announce that on September 27th, 2025, we strengthened our partnership with Kiira Motors Corporation through the acquisition of three modern buses. Of these, two are diesel-powered while the third is an electric bus, specifically brought to ease mobility of students and staff with special needs across campus.

    This initiative speaks directly to our core values of inclusivity, equity, and care for all members of the university community. By ensuring that every student and staff can fully participate in academic life, Makerere continues to create a learning environment where everyone can thrive.

    Our partnership with Kiira Motors Corporation reflects Makerere’s support for Uganda’s homegrown innovation ecosystem. That Kiira Motors was founded on research from within our own College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), is a demonstration of how university knowledge can be translated into practical solutions that serve society.

    We extend our appreciation to the management and team at Kiira Motors for their generous contribution and continued collaboration. Together, we are not only advancing sustainable transport and green technology, but also reaffirming our shared vision of a modern, inclusive, and innovation-driven Uganda.

    4. RESEARCH AND INNOVATION UPDATES

    i. Anti- Tick vaccine

    The College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB) has successfully completed the formulation of an anti-tick vaccine, marking a major milestone in Makerere University’s contribution to Uganda’s livestock sector. The vaccine, which has demonstrated an efficacy rate of 86%, is expected to reduce calf mortality by 14% and significantly improve productivity across the livestock value chain. Uganda’s livestock industry currently contributes 19.4% to the national GDP, valued at approximately USD 17.09 billion.

    Once fully developed and approved, the anti-tick vaccine is projected to reduce product losses in milk and meat by 11% and 29% respectively, and cut down on acaricide importation (An acaricide is a chemical substance used to kill ticks and mites). The vaccine is now awaiting clinical trials and regulatory approval from the relevant drug authorities before commercialization.

    ii. Makerere University’s Innovation Hub upgraded

    In 2022, we established an Innovation Hub dubbed the Unipod, which in 2024 got a grant from UNDP under the Timbukutoo Africa Initiative. The Unipod has now been formally upgraded to Makerere University Technology and Innovations Center (MUTIC) with the mandate to offer support to innovations university-wide.

      MUTIC is a state-of-the-art innovation center that nurtures, incubates and accelerates ideas into companies. It has 10 makerspaces including Computer-Aided Design rooms, Textile space, Electrical space, Renewable Energy, E-Mobility, a Multimedia Studio among others.

      The Center will be under the administration of a board of Directors chaired by the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration and comprising members from the student body, academic staff, government and the private sector.

      5. STUDENT AFFAIRS

        Promoting Student Freedoms and Responsible Leadership

        Makerere University continues to make deliberate and progressive efforts to enhance student freedoms and participation in leadership.

        In a development that reflects Makerere’s continued commitment to empower and nurture responsible future leaders, the University recently made the decision to reinstate open guild campaigns, which had previously been suspended following the tragic loss of a student during campaign activities. This decision was reached after extensive consultations with the Student Guild leadership, guided by our shared desire to restore a vibrant, participatory, and safe democratic culture on campus.

        The resumption of open campaigns comes with a renewed understanding and agreement to balance freedom with responsibility, emphasizing peaceful and respectful campaigns that do not disrupt academic programmes or endanger persons, property, or businesses within and around the University.

        As an institution that values dialogue, democracy, and responsible citizenship, we recognize that a truly great university must not only nurture academic excellence but also provide a space for free expression and engagement in governance.

        Student Allowances

        Students received some of their allowances in Quarter One and will receive the balance this quarter as soon as government releases the Quarter 2 funds. Management has met and harmonized with the Students leadership and we have committed to pay.

        6. STAFF AFFAIRS

          Staff Hires and Exits

          There has been some media attention owing to the recent appointments and departures of staff from Makerere University. Allow me comment on this.

          At its 769th meeting, the Makerere University Appointments Board appointed twenty-three (23) new members of staff, confirmed fifty-eight (58) members into University service, and also accepted resignations for eighteen (18) members of staff. Most of the colleagues who resigned went to take up other opportunities in various capacities. We congratulate all departing staff and wish them well in their new positions of service.

          We recognize that transition is a natural process in all institutions of higher learning. The career growth and accomplishments of former Makerere staff reflects not only their individual achievements but also Makerere’s enduring role as a crucible for leadership and knowledge production.

          It is important to acknowledge that while staff inevitably transition out of the University, Makerere maintains a robust recruitment pipeline to ensure that teaching, learning, and research remain uninterrupted. You will, therefore, note that while 18 staff left, 58 were confirmed and 23 joined the University’s service within the same period. Makerere, therefore, continues to demonstrate sound institutional planning and has in no way reneged on our responsibility to safeguard academic continuity for our students and partners.

          End.

          Mak Editor

          Continue Reading

          Trending