Business & Management
CoBAMS celebrates retiring staff & former leaders
Staff of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) on September 13th, 2024, gathered for a splendid farewell party to celebrate the distinguished service of former leaders Prof. Eria Hisali and his deputy, Prof. Bruno Yawe, along with several retiring staff members. The joyous event, held in their honor, was graced by the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, who led the institution in recognizing the invaluable contributions of the honorees.
During his remarks, Prof. Nawangwe praised the retirees for their remarkable service to Makerere University, acknowledging their pivotal roles in advancing academic excellence and shaping the future of the College. He extended his heartfelt congratulations, highlighting their commitment and dedication to the institution over the years.
Prof. Hisali, who served as Principal of CoBAMS for eight years, expressed gratitude to the university’s management and staff for their unwavering support during his leadership. He reflected on the achievements realized under his tenure, including the establishment of innovative financial mechanisms like the College Endowment Fund, which secured long-term financial sustainability​.
His deputy, Prof. Yawe, was equally commended for his steadfast leadership and contributions to the academic growth of the College.
The retiring staff members honored at the event included Dr. Joseph Wasswa Matovu, Dr. Willy Kagarura, Ms. Josephine Apolot Opolot, Ms. Kobusingye Margaret, Ms. Nanfuka Sarah, and Ms. Mwijjage Sauya. Their remarkable contributions to Makerere University were fondly remembered, and each was recognized for their dedication to shaping the institution’s legacy.
Music, Dance, and Celebration
The celebration was marked by merry-making and a lively atmosphere, as the Department of Performing Arts and Film added a special touch to the event. The evening was filled with vibrant performances that brought energy and joy to the gathering. The performers showcased a mix of traditional Ugandan music, modern tunes, and rhythmic dances that set the tone for an unforgettable evening.
As the music flowed, the spirit of celebration spread throughout, with many staff members taking to the dance floor. In a heartwarming display of camaraderie, both academic and administrative staff danced together, creating a beautiful moment of unity and togetherness. The joyous dancing, led by some of the retirees themselves, reflected the deep bonds shared within the College and the appreciation for the many years of collaboration and friendship.
The entertainment also featured performances that paid tribute to the rich cultural heritage of Uganda, which resonated with the audience. The upbeat rhythms and performances from the Department of Performing Arts and Film captivated attendees, turning the farewell event into a festive occasion that honored both the academic achievements and personal connections forged over the years.
According to Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu, the Dean of the School of Economics, Dr. Joseph Wasswa Matovu was known not only for his scholarly achievements but also for his humor and intellect. “He was celebrated for his remarkable ability to connect with students and colleagues alike. His wit, especially in the teachings of Political Economy and Public Sector Economics, left a lasting impression on all those who worked with him. Dr. Matovu had a unique talent for transforming academic discussions into memorable experiences,” Prof. Okumu shared.
Similarly, Dr. Willy Kagarura, renowned for establishing the PIM Center of Excellence, was praised for his behind-the-scenes work and mentorship. During his farewell speech, Dr. Kagarura encouraged others to plan for retirement, sharing personal reflections on his own journey and expressing deep gratitude for the recognition of his contributions.
Ms. Josephine Apolot Opolot, the former Human Resources Manager, gave a heartfelt speech, reflecting on the sense of teamwork and community that had defined her career. She thanked her colleagues for their unwavering support and praised the collaborative spirit that fostered success within the College. “It’s the collective effort of dedicated professionals that made our work meaningful and fulfilling,” she shared, resonating deeply with the attendees.
Ms. Mwijjage Sauya also expressed her gratitude, singling out Prof. Hisali for his kindness and generosity during her time at the College.
Looking Forward
As CoBAMS bids farewell to these remarkable individuals, the new leadership, under Principal Dr. Edward Bbaale, has committed to continuing the legacy of excellence established by Prof. Hisali and Prof. Yawe. Dr. Bbaale emphasized the importance of building upon the strong foundation laid by his predecessors, noting that their contributions would inspire future generations of scholars and leaders
The farewell event, with its blend of heartfelt speeches, vibrant entertainment, and spirited dancing, not only marked the end of an era but also celebrated the unity and shared commitment of the CoBAMS community. As the College looks ahead to new opportunities, it does so with a sense of optimism and pride, guided by the legacies of those who served with distinction.
Let us raise our glasses to Prof. Hisali, Prof. Yawe, Ms. Apolot, Dr. Kagarura, Dr. Matovu, and all the retirees. Their contributions will continue to shape the future of Makerere University and the College of Business and Management Sciences for years to come.
Business & Management
School of Economics Hosts Team Building Event, Celebrates Excellence with Awards
On Wednesday, January 15, 2025, the School of Economics at Makerere University organized a vibrant team-building activity in the scenic surroundings of Buwatte. This initiative aimed to foster stronger bonds among staff members, celebrate outstanding achievements, and set a collaborative tone for the year ahead.
The day was filled with a variety of activities designed to promote teamwork and camaraderie. Staff members enthusiastically participated in interactive games, lively discussions, and fun challenges that brought out their competitive yet collaborative spirit. The games were followed by a hearty lunch, where everyone gathered to share stories, laughter, and a sense of community. The event culminated in a joyous moment of merry-making, which showcased the School’s vibrant culture of inclusivity and togetherness.
The occasion also served as a platform to honor outstanding individuals who had excelled in their roles over the past year. The award for the best journal paper was presented to the Dean, Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu, in recognition of his exemplary contribution to academic research and publication. Meanwhile, the coveted Teacher of the Year Award, as voted by students, was bestowed upon Mr. Fred Kasalirwe for the second consecutive year. This recognition underscored his dedication to delivering engaging and impactful learning experiences.
In his address, Prof. Okumu expressed heartfelt appreciation for his colleagues’ hard work and commitment, which he credited for the School’s numerous achievements in 2024. He extended special congratulations to the winners of the Vice Chancellor’s Excellence Awards, acknowledging their contribution to enhancing the university’s reputation for academic excellence.
Prof. Okumu emphasized the importance of sustaining the spirit of teamwork, which he described as a cornerstone for the School’s continued success. He encouraged his staff to embrace collaboration as they embark on new academic and administrative pursuits in 2025.
The team-building event was not only a celebration of the past year’s accomplishments but also a rallying call for a productive and united future. Staff members left the event reinvigorated and motivated to uphold the School’s vision of academic excellence and impactful scholarship. As the School of Economics enters the new year, this memorable day in Buwatte stands as a testament to the power of unity, shared purpose, and the collective commitment to shaping a brighter future for the institution.
Nine members of staff from the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) at Makerere University were honored with the Vice Chancellor’s Excellence Awards during the institution’s 75th graduation ceremony. The awards were presented at a special graduation luncheon, where the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, recognized exceptional lecturers and researchers across various categories—early, mid, and senior career—as well as outstanding educators based on student evaluations.
Namugenyi Christabellah and Richard Ssempala were awarded in the category of early career scholars. The two were recognized for their exemplary research contributions, each achieving five publications in 2024. In the mid-career category, Dr. Peter Kisakye emerged as the standout performer with 11 publications, followed by Dr. Anthony Tibaingana, Mushomi John Atwebembeire, and Dr. Ssendawula Kasimu, who each published seven papers during the year.
Dr. Patricia Ndugga, Mr. Fred Kasalirwe, and Dr. Faisal Buyinza were celebrated as the best teachers, following outstanding evaluations from students, showcasing their commitment to delivering high-quality education.
Speaking at the award ceremony, Prof. Nawangwe congratulated the winners and commended their dedication to excellence in teaching and research. “These awards reflect our university’s unwavering commitment to fostering academic and professional excellence. As Makerere University, we take pride in nurturing talent and rewarding those who inspire innovation, dedication, and knowledge creation. Congratulations to all the awardees for setting a remarkable example for others to follow,” he said.
The event was graced by the State Minister for Primary Education, Hon. Joyce Kaducu, who lauded Makerere University for its continued commitment to academic excellence. In her remarks, she stated, “Makerere University’s role in shaping the future of our nation cannot be overstated. These awards are a testament to the caliber of educators and researchers the institution nurtures. I encourage all awardees to continue striving for greater achievements and to inspire the next generation of leaders and scholars.”
At the same luncheon, ACCA Uganda recognized three top-performing students of the Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) program. Ndagire Sarah, Yiga James Mark, and Nabagereka Rebecca, each graduating with an impressive CGPA of 4.68, were awarded plaques in recognition of their outstanding academic performance.
Additionally, the best-performing student in the Master of Economics program, Nalweere Alice, received an award from the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC). The award included a two-year paid training opportunity with EPRC as a research fellow. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Nalweere expressed her appreciation, saying, “I am deeply honored to receive this award. It is not just a recognition of my hard work but also a motivation to contribute meaningfully to economic research and policy development in Uganda. I thank Makerere University for providing an environment that fosters academic excellence and EPRC for this incredible opportunity.”
The graduation luncheon served as a platform to celebrate the institution’s achievements and its unwavering commitment to promoting excellence among its staff and students. The event highlighted Makerere University’s vital role in shaping the academic, research, and professional landscape of Uganda and beyond.
The College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) proudly presented 1,523 graduands on the second day of Makerere University‘s 75th graduation ceremony. Among these, 7 were awarded PhDs, 195 earned master’s degrees, 3 completed postgraduate diplomas, and 1,318 graduated with undergraduate degrees. Female graduands made up 53% of the cohort, with 805 women and 718 men.
Speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, lauded CoBAMS as Makerere’s youngest college but already a beacon of excellence in teaching and research. He noted the College’s pivotal role in linking the University with the government through collaborative projects. Key achievements highlighted include; the Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE) which was praised for spearheading impactful training programs, building the capacity of officials across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. The Environment for Development Centre was recognized for attracting grants totaling approximately USD $400,000. These funds supported capacity-building programs in Inclusive Green Economy for senior public servants, five research projects, policy dialogues, and community outreach activities.
The vice chancellor also recognized CoBAMS students who excelled in the Joint Facility for Electives (JFE) competition in Nairobi. Ritah Ahumuza, a Master of Arts in Economics student, achieved an outstanding average of 87.5%, the highest in over five years. She was honored with an award by the African Economic Research Consortium for her stellar performance.
Prof. Nawangwe expressed pride in the College’s strides in fostering innovation, academic success, and strategic partnerships, reinforcing Makerere University’s position as a global academic leader.
The Guest of Honour, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, represented by the State Minister for Primary Education, Hon. Joyce Kaducu, congratulated the graduands and acknowledged the parents for their sacrifices. She urged the students to be proactive contributors to Uganda’s development. “Go into the world and light a candle. Start humbly, face the future with courage, and create jobs rather than dispersing them,” she said.
During the week-long graduation ceremony, 13,658 graduands will receive their awards, including 143 PhDs, 1,813 master’s degrees, 11,454 bachelor’s degrees, and 243 postgraduate diplomas. Of these, 53% are female, and 44% of the PhD recipients are women. The Vice Chancellor noted these statistics as evidence of Makerere’s progress toward gender equity and research-led growth.
Prof. Nawangwe lauded the Government of Uganda’s support through initiatives like the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (Mak-RIF), which has enabled cutting-edge research.
Future Direction
The Chancellor, Hon. Dr. Kiyonga, outlined Makerere’s vision for expanding its community outreach and commercialization of research innovations. He proposed strengthening partnerships with private-sector investors to turn academic ideas into viable businesses. Dr. Kiyonga also encouraged the graduands to apply their skills to create opportunities in agriculture, education, and other sectors.
As Makerere celebrates its legacy as a beacon of higher education, CoBAMS exemplifies the transformative impact of education in transforming the economy. The achievements celebrated today reflect the university’s dedication to empowering individuals and fostering national development.
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