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Citation for Hon. Betty Oyella Bigombe’s Award of Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa of Makerere University

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I. Overview

Hon. Betty Oyella Bigombe is a lady of outstanding achievements. She has made great contribution to Uganda, the Eastern Africa region and the international community with respect to conflict prevention, peacemaking, peacekeeping, peace building and post-conflict reconstruction. Her contribution facilitated reduction of state fragility, political violence, and also contributed to social-economic growth and development.

II. Biography

Hon. Betty Oyella Bigombe was born on 21st October 1954 in Acholi land, Northern Uganda (Amuru District today). She is one of eleven children in her family. Her education is as follows: Gayaza High School; O-level which she completed in 1968; Trinity College Nabbingo, A-level, 1970. Makerere University, Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences 1974.; the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts (U.S.A) Master of Public Administration. Her rise to prominence is largely attributed to her upbringing, educational background and performance.

III. Career

Earlier in her career, Hon. Betty Bigombe served as a Company Secretary to the Uganda Mining Corporation (1981-1984) and later as Project Manager with the African Development Bank (1984-1986). She became a Member of the Parliament of Uganda representing Kilak County, Gulu district from 1986 to 1996.  In 1988 she was appointed State Minister for Northern Uganda in the Office of the Prime Minster, and spearheaded efforts aimed at the pacification of north and northeastern Uganda. From 1997 to 2006, Hon. Bigombe worked as a Senior Social Development Specialist and Social Scientist with the World Bank Group, and was a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Peace in Washington D.C (2006-2008). Hon. Bigombe later returned to Uganda, serving as the Woman Member of Parliament for Amuru District and State Minister for Water Resources (2011-2014). In 2021, she was appointed Uganda’s Ambassador to Malaysia. She is a member of the Women Mediators across the Commonwealth, a network of women with interest and expertise in mediation.

IV. Contribution to Peace and Post-Conflict Settlement in Uganda

As Member of Parliament, Hon. Bigombe established relationships which facilitated delivery of humanitarian assistance in the camps.

Hon. Betty Oyella Bigombe (5th Left) with members of her family and the law fraternity who included the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs-Hon. Norbert Mao (5th Right), and the Lord Mayor of Kampala-His Worship Erias Lukwago (3rd Right). Left is the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Okello Oryem Henry. 74th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, 29th January 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Hon. Betty Oyella Bigombe (5th Left) with members of her family and the law fraternity who included the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs-Hon. Norbert Mao (5th Right), and the Lord Mayor of Kampala-His Worship Erias Lukwago (3rd Right). Left is the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Okello Oryem Henry.

She initiated programs for educating youths on the dangers of war, supported former child soldiers’ reintegration after combat, and formed social support groups in northern Uganda. As the Minister of State for Pacification in Northern Uganda, Hon. Bigombe initiated contact with Joseph Kony in 1993. Her efforts led to face-to-face negotiations between the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) leaders, and Ugandan government officials, known as the “Bigombe talks,”. which garnered global interest. Her diplomatic skills and commitment to peace resulted in the ratification of an amnesty law which encouraged ten thousand rebels to participate in the negotiations between government and the LRA.  Hon. Bigombe was honored as Uganda’s Woman of the Year in 1994.

The initial peace talks between the LRA leader and the government collapsed. However, in 2004 in the wake of the brutal Barlonyo massacre, Hon. Bigombe felt compelled to leave the World Bank, to return to Uganda to, initiate a second wave of LRA peace negotiations, where she was the chief mediator.  Her efforts laid a foundation upon which the Juba Peace Talks mediated by the Government of Southern Sudan were successfully conducted, except for the final moment of signing the Peace Agreement which the LRA leader refused to honor.

Despite hiccups, Hon. Bigombe’s efforts contributed to silencing of the guns, return of Internally Displaced peoples home to rebuild their lives and communities. Considering the intensity of the armed conflict in northern Uganda, Hon. Betty Bigombe courageously faced serious risks to her life. Her efforts were recognized by the community in northern Uganda who endearingly call her “Atuku” in Acholi (for beautiful/precious woman).

V. Contribution to Peace and Post-conflict reconstruction in the Great Lakes Region

Hon. Betty Bigombe has spear headed conflict resolution within the region and emphasized the significant role of women and community members in peacebuilding. She contributed to fostering peace between the government of Uganda and Sudan through the work of the Carter Center in the years 1999 and 2000. 

The Orator-Assoc. Prof. Rose Nakayi reads the citation flanked by (Right to Left) Hon. Okello Oryem Henry, Hon. Norbert Mao, Hon. Betty Oyella Bigombe, members of her family and other officials. 74th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, 29th January 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Orator-Assoc. Prof. Rose Nakayi reads the citation flanked by (Right to Left) Hon. Okello Oryem Henry, Hon. Norbert Mao, Hon. Betty Oyella Bigombe, members of her family and other officials.

Following the signing of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, Hon. Bigombe mediated the unification of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army as well as conducting back door negotiations with some stake holders in order to ensure that the Revitalised Peace Agreement of 2018 is implemented in an inclusive manner.

Currently, Hon. Bigombe serves as Special Envoy for the President of Uganda to the Parties to the Revitalized Agreement of Resolution of the Conflict on South Sudan. She played a crucial role in bringing President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar together, to resolve pending issues necessary for moving forward and firming the peace process in South Sudan.

VI. Contribution to Peace and Post-conflict reconstruction at the Global level

Hon. Betty Bigombe served as a Commissioner for the Women’s Refugee Commission (2008-2014), led election observer missions in Zimbabwe and Rwanda, and continues to serve as a member of the Commission’s Leadership Program Advisory Board.

She also worked on peace-building efforts in Sri Lanka, as part of a team of mediators involved in negotiations between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil Tigers rebel group in the early 2000s. Even though the peace talks ultimately did not succeed, Hon. Bigombe’s efforts were recognized as instrumental in bringing the two sides together. She was a visiting scholar at John Hopkins, School of Advanced International Studies, Washington DC (2008-2009), where she shared her vast experience on mediation. As the Senior Director for Fragility, Conflict, and Violence at the World Bank (2014-2017), she steered the World Bank Group’s agenda in ensuring country strategies, projects, and programs are consistent with and complementary to organizational goals of reducing poverty and promoting shared prosperity.

VII. Conclusion

Hon. Betty Oyella Bigombe is outstanding and has demonstrated resilience with an unwavering commitment to peace and diplomacy in Uganda, the Great Lakes region and the world. Makerere University is proud and honored to award Hon. Betty Oyella Bigombe the Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa of Makerere University, and all the rights, duties and privileges pertaining thereto.

Orator: Assoc. Prof. Rose Nakayi, School of Law

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Notice: Makerere Disability Scheme 2025/26 Medical Review Exercise

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Person with special needs at the 73rd Graduation Ceremony

The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites persons with disability who applied for admission to public universities under the Disability Scheme for 2025/2026 academic year to appear for medical/review exercise at Makerere University, Senate Building, Level Two (2) in the Telepresence Centre.

Note: Only those who have the minimum entry requirements of at least two principal passes at A’ Level and at least five (5) Passes at O’ Level or the equivalent will be interviewed.

Only candidates candidates who sat A’ Level in 2024, 2023 and 2022 are eligible for admission.

The exercise will be conducted on 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th and 30th May, 2025 respectively from 9.00 a.m – 1.00 p.m. each day.

Important:

a)If you fail to appear on any of the given days above, there will be no other chance for you.

b) Applicants who are beneficiaries of other Government Scholarships are not eligible for admission through the Disability Scheme.

Mak Editor

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Mak Inducts Newly Appointed Staff

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Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda and Mr. Amon Muteganda pose for a group photo with new staff during the induction ceremony on 15th May 2025. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year. Held in the Senate Conference Hall, day one of the induction was presided over by the Acting (Ag.) Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-DVCAA, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, who represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

Warmly welcoming the new staff, Prof. Buyinza congratulated the ladies and gentlemen upon choosing Makerere University as the workplace for embarking on their next phase of professional growth, self-discovery, and personal development.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi addresses new staff during the induction. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi addresses new staff during the induction.

“You are joining a century-old institution with a distinguished history and a deeply rooted culture of academic excellence” Prof. Buyinza remarked. “For over 100 years, Makerere has nurtured the intellectual talents of young people and contributed meaningfully to the development of society across the globe,” he added.

The Ag. DVCAA nevertheless tipped that although the onboarding process might overwhelm staff with a lot of information, it is all meant to enable them better understand their roles, the benefits due them, and the unique opportunities that come with working in a world-class institution. Prof. Buyinza therefore encouraged new staff to contribute to the attainment of Makerere’s Mission, connect with the vibrant community they are now part of, enjoy the beautiful greenery the campus affords, and take advantage of professional development as well as well-being promoting programmes.

“At Makerere University, the well-being, safety, and professional growth of our staff are priorities. We are committed to walking this journey with you, and to building an institution that is not only a place of work but a place of inspiration and belonging” Prof. Buyinza reassured.

Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni (2nd Right) responds to a question as Left to Right: Mr. Amon Muteganda, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Mr. Emmanuel Kitamirike listen. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni (2nd Right) responds to a question as Left to Right: Mr. Amon Muteganda, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Mr. Emmanuel Kitamirike listen.

In his welcome remarks, the Chief Human Resources Officer, Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni congratulated the new staff upon successfully completing the rigorous process the resulted into their respective appointments. He equally thanked the Vice Chancellor for endorsing the induction ceremony with not only budgetary support but also his representation.

Reiterating the need to appreciate the culture, politics and dynamics of the institution that they are now part of, Mr. Mujuni tasked new staff to take time and appreciate the University Vision, Mission and Objectives, and ensure that they adhere to them. He equally urged new staff to read and understand the various university policies and where in doubt, consult the relevant offices.

Ultimately, he urged staff in the fulfilment of their duties and responsibilities not to disregard their individual goals. “You have aspirations that you must achieve as an individual and I encourage you not to neglect them.”

Mr. Amon Muteganda congratulated the new staff upon their respective appointments. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Amon Muteganda congratulated the new staff upon their respective appointments.

The University Council as the supreme governing body of the university is also the policy making body, whose Appointments Board oversees the appointment, promotion, removal from service, and discipline of all university staff and officers. The representative of Staff with Disabilities on University Council, Mr. Amon Muteganda Kabahima who chaired the session on University Governance equally congratulated new staff.

“You underwent a tough process full of various competitive stages and we are sure that we have the right people for the various jobs” he commended.

Addressing aspects of University Governance and the key Offices, the University Secretary and Secretary to Council, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda guided that the policies and regulations that govern the institution are broad, numerous, and as such cannot adequately be covered over the two-day induction. He nevertheless encouraged staff to visit the University Policies website and appraise themselves with the details, not only for avoidance of breaching them but also building a culture voluntary compliance.

Mr. Yusuf Kiranda made a presentation on University Governance and Key Offices. Makerere University on Thursday 15th May, 2025 embarked on a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff, whose tenures commenced in the 2024/2025 financial year, Senate Conference Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Yusuf Kiranda made a presentation on University Governance and Key Offices.

Mr. Kiranda equally encouraged staff not to ascribe importance and respect to colleagues based on rank and titles but seek to esteem each and every member of staff as an important and vital contributor to the fulfilment of the University’s Vision and Mission.

“We are all equally important in this university; the person whose services the university does not require, it does not hire. As long as you are here, you are required” he explained.

The University Secretary equally called upon staff to familiarize themselves with the law that establishes and governs public universities; the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA). In his presentation, he singled out section twenty-four (24) that outlines the objectives of a public university in Uganda, as well as sections 30 to 32 that prescribe various offices’ responsibilities.

Mr. Kiranda equally encouraged staff to read the Human Resources Manual, Policy and Regulations against Sexual Harassment (PRASH), the Safeguarding Policy, among others. He concluded by reiterating the need for staff to read and appreciate the policies that directly address their welfare and steer clear of negative narratives and discourse, particularly those that seek to weaponize discourse. Other topics to be covered during the two-day induction include; the University Strategic Plan, Financing, Research-led Agenda, Institutional Communication and Public Relations and the Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS). Topics to be covered on day two include; Legal Instruments, The Collegiate System, Human Resources Management and Functions, as well as Policies on Gender Equality and Sexual Harassment. Others include; Academic Issues, Quality Assurance, Procurement, Audit, and Library Resources.

Mark Wamai

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Pre-entry Exam Results for Bachelor of Laws 2025/2026

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The office of the Academic Registrar has released the results for Bachelor of Laws Pre-Entry Examination 2025/2026 held on Saturday 12th April, 2025.

Candidates who scored 50% and above passed the examination and have been recommended to the Admissions Committee for consideration. However, the candidates who passed have to submit an application where Bachelor of Laws is among the programme choices in the application system here: https://apply.mak.ac.ug.

Those who are not satisfied with their results may appeal within two weeks from the date of the release of results.

The list includes the different categories of applicants namely: A-level, Diploma Holders, Degree Holders and Mature-Age:

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