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Assoc. Prof. Umar Kakumba Hands Over DVCAA Mantle to Prof. Buyinza

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The Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Henry Alinaitwe (4th R), Incoming DVCAA-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (5th R), Outgoing DVCAA-Assoc. Prof. Umar Kakumba (5th L) and members of Management at the handover ceremony on 2nd August 2024.
The Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Henry Alinaitwe (4th R), Incoming DVCAA-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (5th R), Outgoing DVCAA-Assoc. Prof. Umar Kakumba (5th L) and members of Management at the handover ceremony on 2nd August 2024.

“Makerere has made me who I am today; it has nurtured me from a degree holder to a professor, and I will do all that is possible to support this institution” remarked Assoc. Prof. Umar Kakumba the outgoing Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA) as he handed over office to the Acting DVCAA and Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. The handover, held on 2nd August 2024 in the DVCAA’s Senate Building Office was presided over by the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration (DVCFA), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, who represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

The ceremony was guided by Section F – d of The Uganda Public Service Standing Orders 2021 Edition as pronounced by the Director Internal Audit, Mr. Patrick Akonyet. On hand to witness the ceremony were; Ag. Director Human Resources-Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni, Director Legal Affairs- Ms. Nanyondo Sumaiyah Sebuta, University Bursar-Mr. Evarist Bainomugisha, Ag. Director Research and Graduate Training-Assoc. Prof. Robert Wamala, Deputy University Librarian Dr. Ongaya Kizito, Principal Public Relations Officer-Ms. Ritah Namisango and members of the DVCAA and PR Offices.

Assoc. Prof. Kakumba’s term as DVCAA commenced on 1st December 2018 and ended on 30th November 2023, whereupon he was appointed in Acting Capacity until 31st May 2024. Thereafter, Prof. Buyinza was appointed in acting capacity for a period of six months effective 11th July 2024 to 10th January 2025 or until a substantive DVCAA is appointed whichever comes earlier.

Congratulating Assoc. Prof. Kakumba upon the successful completion of his term, Prof. Alinaitwe thanked God that he was able to deliver throughout his term and enable the university to progress especially through the COVID-19 period. “He has really achieved so many things for this institution.”

Prior to outlining some of the accomplishments during his term, Assoc. Prof. Kakumba said, “I am thankful to the Almighty God, to my supervisor Prof. Nawangwe and to my colleagues in top management, academic leaders, administrative and support staff, that I have worked with closely over the last five and a half years as the First Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)”.

Right to Left: Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, witnesses as Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi receives the handover report from Assoc. Prof. Umar Kakumba.
Right to Left: Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, witnesses as Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi receives the handover report from Assoc. Prof. Umar Kakumba.

Some of the accomplishments outlined include:

  1. Set-up and led the team that crafted a proposal to the MasterCard Foundation (MCF) leading to award of a grant totalling US$ 2,017,933 for the e-Learning Initiative
  2. Set-up and led the team that submitted a proposal to the MCF leading to award of a grant totalling US$ 45 million for Phase II of the MCF Scholars’ Programme 2023-2033
  3. Led the Committee that crafted a proposal and won a post-doctoral fellowship development grant from the Carnegie Corporation totalling US$ 1,250,000.
  4. Set-up and led team that received seed grant of US$ 49,044 from the University of Cambridge, and now finalising a full US$ 25 million proposal on Climate Change and Sustainability
  5. Led the Committee that crafted a proposal to the Carnegie Corporation leading to award of US$ 1,000,000 to secure capacity development of early career academics (SECA).
  6. Negotiated and secured high-level international training of four Staff and subsequently won a grant from ARUA-Carnegie, to establish the Mak Data Centre.
  7. Chaired Steering Committee that won a grant worth US$ 750,000 (2020-2022) and a successor grant worth US$ 750,000 (2023-2025) from the HP Foundation for building capacity in Impact Evaluation for Evidence-based Decisions (IEED).
  8. As the Institutional focal person for the African Universities Research Alliance (ARUA), championed Makerere’s hosting and participation in eleven (11) Africa-Europe Clusters of Research Excellence (CoRES).
  9. Negotiated and signed an MoU between Makerere and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) on 24th December 2020.
  10. Negotiated and Signed an MoU with Arizona State University (ASU) on 15th June 2023 to build capacity for Quality e-Learning infrastructure, staff training.
  11. Signed an MoU involving Makerere and five (5) other African Universities with the EU-CIVIS Universities Alliance for collaboration in research and innovations projects.
  12. Negotiated and signed an MoU with the University of Pretoria on 14th November 2021 for collaboration in training, joint research, innovations, technology transfer.
  13. Negotiated and signed an MoU with the University of Arizona on 19th April 2021 for a customised degree paths programme (CDP) and/or the world campus experience (WCE) programme.
  14. Signed a Consortium MoU involving Makerere and partner African Universities and autonomous research institutes, on 29th January 2021, for the establishment of the African Institute in Indigenous Knowledge Systems (AIIKS).
  15. Supported establishment of the MoU (signed on 21st February 2022) with the University Network for Strengthening Macro-Financial Resilience to Climate and Environmental Change.
  16. Conducted six (6) research management training workshops, presided over 100 research symposia and dissemination workshops, revitalised knowledge transfer outputs leading to increased scholarly publications from 900 peer-reviewed Journal Articles in 2020 to 1050 in 2021 and 1432 in 2022.
  17. Championed the institutionalisation and capacity development of the Institute of Open, Distance and e-Learning (IoDEL) at Makerere.
  18. Set up a Taskforce during the CoVID-19 pandemic (in April 2020), to fast-track operationalisation of ODeL policy and framework.
  19. Championed the development and rolling-out of the Academic Management Information System (ACMIS); a “home-grown software system solution”.
  20. Revitalised the Makerere University Press (MakPress), successfully publish and launch a total of fifteen (15) book titles, while ten (10) titles are due this year, 2024.
  21. Provided leadership to establish institutional affiliations with training programmes at the National Defence College-Njeru, (2021); Uganda Military Academy, Kabamba, 2019/2020; Police Senior Command and Staff College-Bwebajja (2022); and IGAD Sheikh Veterinary School Somaliland (2020).
  22. Presided over the review of One Hundred Seventy-Six (176) existing programme curricula and thirty-five (35) new academic programmes.
  23. Presided over thirty-four (34) sessions of the Senate Academic Policies and Appeals Committee, and twenty-five (25) Senate Board of Research and Graduate Training.
  24. Presided over successful completion of annual students’ admissions for Makerere University with enrolment numbers (24,684 in 2019/2000); (19,257 in 2020/2021); (20,827 in 2021/2022); (5659 in 2022/2023); and (21597 in 2023/2024).
  25. Refurbished the e-Learning infrastructure with 85% of campus now connected on Wireless hotspots; distributed over 400 Laptop computers, projectors and smart-boards to academic units; scale-up of the e-Learning management system (MUELE).
  26. Coordinated and supervised the successful completion of the 69th, 70th, 71st, 72nd and 73rd graduation ceremonies of Makerere University. A total of 65,092 students (of whom 51% are female) have graduated in the last five (5) years.

In his acceptance remarks, Prof. Buyinza congratulated the outgoing DVCAA upon successfully completing his term of office, adding that the handover ceremony had underlined the need to document all undertakings during one’s term of office. He equally undertook to continue along the trajectory of academic excellence embarked on by his predecessor. “I commit to do all it takes to maintain and consolidate the achievements made by Makerere University during this previous term.”

Mark Wamai

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Freshers’ Joining Instructions 2026/2027

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August 5, 2026

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Main Building in the background. Photo taken on 1st April 2026

Dear Students; Class of 2026/2027

It is both an honour and a privilege to welcome you to Makerere University, Uganda’s oldest and premier institution of higher learning, and one of Africa’s most respected centres of scholarship, research and innovation. On behalf of the University Senate and the Office of the Academic Registrar, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each one of you upon your admission to Makerere University for the 2026/2027 Academic Year.

Today marks the beginning of one of the most important chapters of your lives. It is a day that signifies not only your admission to a great university, but also your acceptance into a community of scholars committed to the pursuit of knowledge, the advancement of society, and the service of humanity. You have earned your place here through determination, sacrifice and hard work. Behind every student seated here is a story of perseverance, encouragement from parents and guardians, dedication from teachers, and personal commitment to excellence. To all who have contributed to this achievement, we express our sincere appreciation.

As you join Makerere University, you become part of a remarkable legacy that spans more than a century. For generations, Makerere has stood as a beacon of academic excellence on the African continent. It has nurtured leaders in government, business, academia, science, education, the arts and many other professions. Its graduates have shaped public policy, advanced scientific discovery, built thriving enterprises and transformed communities across Uganda, Africa and the world. Today, you inherit that proud tradition. More importantly, you are called upon to enrich it through your own achievements and contributions.

The world you are entering is changing rapidly. Advances in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, digital innovation and data science are transforming every profession. Nations are grappling with climate change, public health challenges, food insecurity, unemployment, governance concerns and widening inequalities. These realities demand graduates who are not only knowledgeable, but also innovative, adaptable, ethical and committed to finding practical solutions to society’s most pressing challenges. Makerere University is committed to preparing you for that responsibility. Our vision is not simply to produce graduates, but to develop critical thinkers, responsible citizens, innovators and leaders who will make meaningful contributions to national development and global progress.

Dear Fresh Students,

University education is fundamentally different from the education you have previously experienced. At Makerere, learning is not confined to the lecture room. It requires curiosity, discipline and personal responsibility. Your lecturers will guide you, challenge your thinking and provide opportunities for intellectual growth, but the responsibility for learning rests with you. Attend your lectures consistently, participate actively in discussions, read widely beyond the prescribed materials, complete your assignments diligently and prepare adequately for your examinations. Success at university is rarely the result of extraordinary intelligence alone; more often, it is the product of consistent effort, effective time management and unwavering commitment.

As Academic Registrar, allow me to emphasise the importance of understanding and complying with the University’s academic regulations. These regulations exist to ensure fairness, transparency and the integrity of our academic processes. Complete your registration within the stipulated timelines, familiarise yourselves with the Academic Calendar and the Students’ Regulations, and regularly access your academic information through the Academic Management Information System (ACMIS). Always seek guidance whenever you encounter academic or administrative challenges. Our offices are here to support your success.

One value that must remain central throughout your academic journey is integrity. Your degree will derive its true worth not only from the knowledge you acquire, but also from the honesty with which you earn it. Academic dishonesty, including plagiarism, examination malpractice, falsification of documents and any other form of misconduct, undermines the very purpose of higher education. Protect your reputation and uphold the good name of Makerere University by conducting yourselves with honesty, responsibility and professionalism in all that you do.

While academic excellence remains our primary focus, I encourage you to embrace the broader university experience. Makerere University offers countless opportunities to develop your talents beyond the classroom. Participate in research, innovation, entrepreneurship, leadership, sports, cultural activities, volunteer programmes and community engagement initiatives. These experiences will enrich your education, strengthen your confidence and prepare you for leadership in an increasingly interconnected world. Some of the most valuable lessons you will learn at Makerere will come through collaboration, service and engagement with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

You have joined one of the most diverse academic communities in the region. Within this University you will meet colleagues from every region of Uganda and from many countries across Africa and beyond. Embrace this diversity with respect, openness and humility. Learn from one another. Build lasting friendships. Listen to different perspectives and appreciate that diversity is one of our greatest strengths. The networks you establish during your years at Makerere may become lifelong friendships, professional partnerships and opportunities that shape your future.

As you pursue your studies, remember that the University community is built on mutual respect and shared responsibility. Conduct yourselves with dignity both on and off campus. Respect your lecturers, fellow students and members of staff. Use social media responsibly and appreciate that your actions, whether online or offline, contribute to your personal reputation and that of the University. Leadership begins with character, and character is demonstrated through the choices we make every day.

There will undoubtedly be moments when university life becomes challenging. You may encounter difficult coursework, financial constraints, personal struggles or moments of uncertainty. Such experiences are not unusual, nor do they define your future. What matters is how you respond to them. Do not hesitate to seek assistance from your lecturers, academic advisers, counsellors or fellow students. Makerere University is committed to supporting your academic, personal and professional development, but you must also be willing to seek help whenever you need it. Resilience, perseverance and a positive attitude often distinguish those who succeed from those who give up too soon.

Dear Students,

Leadership is not reserved for those who hold positions of authority. Leadership begins with taking responsibility for your own actions, influencing others positively and serving your community with integrity. Throughout your time at Makerere, I encourage you to cultivate the qualities of ethical leadership, critical thinking, innovation and service. Challenge yourselves to become solution providers rather than problem identifiers. Ask yourselves not only how you will build successful careers, but also how your knowledge and skills will improve the lives of others and contribute to the development of Uganda, Africa and the wider world.

Among you are future scientists who will develop life-changing innovations, future entrepreneurs who will create employment opportunities, future judges who will uphold justice, future medical professionals who will save lives, future teachers who will inspire generations and future public servants who will shape national policy. The opportunities before you are immense, but they must be matched by discipline, humility and a commitment to lifelong learning.

As you begin this journey, remember that every lecture attended, every book read, every assignment completed and every meaningful friendship formed contributes to the person you will become. Make each day count. Pursue excellence not for recognition alone, but because excellence is a habit that shapes character and transforms lives.

As I conclude, I leave you with a simple but profound challenge. During your years at Makerere University, do not merely strive to obtain a degree. Strive to become a person of knowledge, integrity, compassion and purpose. Let your education inspire you to think boldly, act ethically and serve selflessly. Let your years at Makerere prepare you not simply for employment, but for leadership; not merely for personal success, but for meaningful impact.

On behalf of the University Senate and the Office of the Academic Registrar, I warmly welcome you to Makerere University. We are proud to receive you at this great institution, and we look forward to witnessing your growth into graduates who will uphold the values, traditions and reputation of Makerere University wherever life may lead you.

I wish you every success in your academic journey.

Welcome to Makerere University, and may God bless you all.

I thank you for your kind attention.

We Build For the Future.

Professor Buyinza Mukadasi (PhD)
Academic Registrar

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Prof. Ssali makes strong case for Minutes Writing as MakWC Holds Staff Training

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August 4, 2026

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Prof. Sarah Ssali (C) with Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi, the MakWC Team and Workshop Participants. Makerere University Writing Center (MakWC) minutes writing toolkit workshop for executive and administrative staff, opened by DVCAA Prof. Sarah Ssali, 4th August, 2026, Telepresence Hall, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA), Prof. Sarah Ssali has made a strong case for good Minutes Writing, describing the process as “very important in respecting the integrity of the institution.” She made the remarks while officially opening a training workshop organised by the Makerere University Writing Centre (MakWC) for Executive and Administrative Staff on 4th August 2026.

And whereas it is important to consult long serving staff on institutional best practices, Prof. Ssali noted that good minute writing is the best way to preserve institutional memory, especially as staff come and go. She equally pointed out the importance of minutes in addressing issues of legality, as these accounts have since time immemorial been relied on to “help shape records and document the history of states”.

Prof. Sarah Ssali. Makerere University Writing Center (MakWC) minutes writing toolkit workshop for executive and administrative staff, opened by DVCAA Prof. Sarah Ssali, 4th August, 2026, Telepresence Hall, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali.

Away from setting the record straight, the DVCAA also stressed the importance of minutes in helping teams better prepare for their next meeting. Minutes, she noted, should help members develop an action matrix with quick turnaround times that empower the next meeting to address what was resolved.

The DVCAA equally underscored the importance of minutes in; helping institutions or their units comply with regulatory requirements, provide accountability in the event of tracking implementation of policies or programmes, and team alignment. “Minutes affect decisions and so they are good reference points for positions agreed upon by teams, especially where there was a lot of debate,” she said about the latter.

Prof. Sarah Ssali addresses participants at the workshop. Makerere University Writing Center (MakWC) minutes writing toolkit workshop for executive and administrative staff, opened by DVCAA Prof. Sarah Ssali, 4th August, 2026, Telepresence Hall, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali addresses participants at the workshop.

Prof. Ssali concluded by thanking executive and administrative staff present for sparing time to attend the training and urged them to uphold the highest degree of ethics and efficiency as they go about this noble task.

The Chairperson, MakWC, Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi in his remarks sincerely thanked the DVCAA for reiterating the importance of workshop in equipping staff to become better professionals. He, in the same breath, urged participants to do their best by putting into practice all the knowledge and skills that they acquire during the training.

Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi (L) chats with Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi. Makerere University Writing Center (MakWC) minutes writing toolkit workshop for executive and administrative staff, opened by DVCAA Prof. Sarah Ssali, 4th August, 2026, Telepresence Hall, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi (L) chats with Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi.

Participants received specific training on Fundamentals and Roles of the Minute Taker by Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi and Minute Writing Techniques by Ms. Proscovia Nakayiki. The executive and administrative staff were equally tipped on; the Policy and Legal Environment for Minute Writing by Ms. Esther Kabinga, e-Meeting platforms by Dr. Godfrey Mayende, and Ethical and Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda.

About MakWC

Housed under the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Partnerships (DRIP), MakWC is a pivotal centre aimed at enhancing Makerere University’s strategic goal of becoming a research-led institution by 2030. The centre provides faculty, staff and students with assistance on their papers, projects, reports, multi-modal documents and other writerly needs across disciplines.

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Admission Lists for Postgraduate Programmes 2026/27

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August 4, 2026

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SPH and CHS Masters Graduands at the 76th Graduation Ceremony. 76th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, College of Health Sciences and School of Public Health. Commencement Speaker-Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya. 24th February 2026, Freedom Square, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

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