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Passing the Torch: Dr. Wokadala Hands Over Deanship to Dr. Banga

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In a momentous handover ceremony on Friday, November 8, 2024, Dr. James Wokadala, the outgoing Dean of the School of Statistics at Makerere University, officially transferred the mantle of leadership to his successor, Dr. Margaret Banga. This transition marks not only the end of a progressive five-year tenure by Dr. Wokadala but also the dawn of a promising new chapter under Dr. Banga’s stewardship.

Reflecting on his tenure from 2019 to 2024, Dr. Wokadala proudly recounted significant strides made in academic programming and graduate training. “We have made tremendous progress in reviewing and introducing new academic programs, including the Master of Science in Quantitative Economics and PhD in Population Studies,” he shared. His focus on graduate training has indeed paid off, with an increase in the number of master’s graduates—a testament to the school’s commitment to advancing statistical and quantitative expertise.

Dr. Wokadala also highlighted the school’s success in building partnerships with key organizations such as Prudential Assurance Uganda, the World Bank, and esteemed international universities. Yet he acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly in staff development and school structure. “We must incentivize our staff to move up the career ladder,” he urged, emphasizing the importance of nurturing talent to secure the school’s future growth.

A group photo of the people that attended the handover ceremony. Dr. James Wokadala official handover of Dean of the School of Statistics, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa to Dr. Margaret Banga, Friday 8th November 2024.
A group photo of the people that attended the handover ceremony.

As he bid farewell, Dr. Wokadala expressed deep gratitude to Makerere University’s management, staff, and student leaders for their invaluable support throughout his tenure. He assured Dr. Banga of his continued support and stressed the importance of fostering research, community engagement, and academic innovation as she steps into her new role.

In her address, Dr. Banga, the newly appointed Dean, conveyed a vision centered on collaboration, teamwork, and excellence. She expressed appreciation for Dr. Wokadala’s dedication and pledged to build on his legacy. “I request that we all work together,” she urged. “We cannot move the School of Statistics forward if we are divided.” Dr. Banga committed to strengthening relationships with key collaborators, including ISTAC and the World Bank, as well as exploring new partnerships.

Dr. Banga’s priorities also include the professional development of staff, particularly assistant lecturers working towards PhDs. She acknowledged the unique challenges they face in balancing teaching responsibilities with research and pledged her support to ease their path. “I will work with them, identify areas needing help, and seek support from college management,” she promised.

As she takes the helm, Dr. Banga has also committed to supporting student welfare, aiming to be a “mother” figure as advised by her predecessor. “I’ll work with students where I can, and when necessary, involve the ‘father’—the principal,” she remarked with a smile.

 The Principal, Prof. Edward Bbaale joined Dr. Banga and Dr. Wokadala for a photo. Dr. James Wokadala official handover of Dean of the School of Statistics, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa to Dr. Margaret Banga, Friday 8th November 2024.
The Principal, Prof. Edward Bbaale joined Dr. Banga and Dr. Wokadala for a photo.

The ceremony saw congratulatory remarks from various university leaders, each reflecting on Dr. Wokadala’s achievements and extending warm wishes to Dr. Banga. Professor Edward Bbaale, Principal of the College of Business and Management Studies (CoBAMS), commended Dr. Wokadala for a seamless transition and praised his leadership as a model for future deans. “Handing over office peacefully is not easy; it’s a big deal, a day to celebrate and thank God,” he said. Prof. Bbaale emphasized the crucial role of deans as academic and research leaders and encouraged Dr. Banga to carry forward the school’s legacy of excellence.

Luwaliza Aggrey, the university’s Internal Auditor, praised the school’s clean financial record during Dr. Wokadala’s tenure, attributing it to transparent and accountable management. “We pray for a conducive environment to move forward,” he said, underscoring the importance of continuity.

Dr. Wokadala will now take on the role of Deputy Principal at CoBAMS, where he is expected to continue contributing to the university’s vision and mission.

As Dr. Banga embarks on her journey as Dean, her commitment to unity, collaboration, and academic excellence bodes well for the future of the School of Statistics. With the foundation laid by Dr. Wokadala and the support of faculty, students, and university leaders, she stands poised to lead the school to new heights.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

Business & Management

Public Investment Management Centre Concludes 4th Cohort Training on Financial Implications Guidelines

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Group photo of participants. Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIMCoE), hosted by the College of Business and Management Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, training of its 4th cohort of public officers on User Acceptance Training on Guidelines for Clearance of Financial Implications, November 15, 2024.

The Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIMCoE), hosted by the College of Business and Management Sciences at Makerere University, successfully concluded the training of its 4th cohort of public officers on November 15, 2024. This capacity-building program focused on the User Acceptance Training on Guidelines for Clearance of Financial Implications, a critical process mandated by Section 76 of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), 2015.

Under the PFMA, every bill presented to Parliament must include a Certificate of Financial Implications (CFI) issued by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED). The preparation of the Statement of Financial Implications (SFI), which forms the basis for the CFI, is the responsibility of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). This statement provides detailed revenue and expenditure estimates and projected savings over a minimum of two years’ post-enactment.

Empowering MDAs with Essential Skills

The training sessions, which began last week and will continue into the following week, aim to equip MDAs with the skills required to prepare robust SFIs. These competencies are essential for MoFPED Budget Analysts to review and draft CFIs or Letters of Financial Clearance effectively.

A section of participants. Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIMCoE), hosted by the College of Business and Management Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, training of its 4th cohort of public officers on User Acceptance Training on Guidelines for Clearance of Financial Implications, November 15, 2024.

The 4th cohort comprised officers from key institutions, including the Ministry of Lands, Ministry of Agriculture, National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), Uganda Land Commission, Ministry of Local Government, National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO), and the Ministry of Kampala, among others.

A Step Toward Transparent and Accountable Governance

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Mr. Moses Sonko, Principal Economist at MoFPED, commended the initiative and acknowledged the value it brings to Uganda’s public policy and legislative processes. Representing the Permanent Secretary of MoFPED, Mr. Sonko highlighted the importance of the training in strengthening governance frameworks.

“This training was developed to equip us with tools and knowledge essential for our roles in ensuring that Uganda’s policy and legislative proposals are financially sound, transparent, and align with national priorities,” Mr. Sonko remarked. He encouraged participants to apply their newly acquired skills to enhance policy preparation and implementation.

Mr Sonko addresses trainees at the close of the training. Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIMCoE), hosted by the College of Business and Management Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, training of its 4th cohort of public officers on User Acceptance Training on Guidelines for Clearance of Financial Implications, November 15, 2024.
Mr Sonko addresses trainees at the close of the training.

He also emphasized the multi-dimensional nature of the training, which enables officers to identify the financial, social, environmental, and economic impacts of proposed bills and policies.

Participant Feedback

Participants expressed their enthusiasm and gratitude for the training. Mr. Davis Kwizera from the National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB) shared his positive experience, stating: “This training has offered a wealth of knowledge and an in-depth understanding of policy processes. It will significantly enhance our ability to prepare relevant policy documents. If you’ve taken the courses on Financial and Risk Analysis as well as Investment Appraisal and Risk Analysis, this program completes the package.”

The new guidelines for the clearance of financial implications will officially take effect in July 2025. PIMCoE remains committed to building the capacity of public officers to ensure that Uganda’s legislative and policy frameworks are underpinned by sound financial and risk analyses, fostering a culture of accountability and sustainable development.

For more updates on PIMCoE programs and upcoming training sessions, visit PIMCoE’s official website.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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CoBAMS Hosts Workshop to Review Parish Development Model

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Participants pose for a group photo after the workshop. Stakeholders, researchers, and policymakers workshop to discuss the progress and emerging issues in the implementation of Uganda’s Parish Development Model (PDM), 12th November 2024, Council Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

In a pivotal workshop held at Makerere University on November 12, stakeholders, researchers, and policymakers gathered to discuss the progress and emerging issues in the implementation of Uganda’s Parish Development Model (PDM). This transformative model, conceptualized by Prof. Ezra Suruma, aims to tackle some of Uganda’s most pressing socio-economic challenges: poverty, unemployment, and limited access to essential services, particularly in healthcare and agriculture.

Prof. Suruma, the architect of PDM, underscored the crucial role of researchers in creating wealth-empowering strategies for Ugandans. “The PDM is designed to eradicate poverty, promote economic inclusion, improve service delivery, and modernize agriculture,” Prof. Suruma stated. He highlighted that the model not only provides a pathway for Uganda’s rural households to participate in the economy but also aims to address the underlying issues that leave many citizens unable to afford basic needs.

Prof. Ezra Suruma (Right) and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Left) at the event. Stakeholders, researchers, and policymakers workshop to discuss the progress and emerging issues in the implementation of Uganda’s Parish Development Model (PDM), 12th November 2024, Council Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, commended Prof. Suruma’s visionary leadership and the significant impact PDM is expected to have on communities across Uganda. “The PDM stands as one of the largest government interventions aimed at eradicating poverty and uplifting communities,” he remarked. Prof. Nawangwe also emphasized Makerere University’s commitment to supporting PDM through the PDM Lab hosted by the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), which serves as a hub for real-time data analysis to guide the implementation of PDM activities across the country.

The PDM Lab at CoBAMS, led by Prof. Eria Hisali and funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is instrumental in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data that can shape PDM policies at the grassroots level. During the workshop, Dr. Suruma extended his appreciation to UNDP for their support and acknowledged the researchers for their efforts in generating valuable insights into the effectiveness of PDM.

Part of the audience at the event. Stakeholders, researchers, and policymakers workshop to discuss the progress and emerging issues in the implementation of Uganda’s Parish Development Model (PDM), 12th November 2024, Council Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Despite Uganda’s notable economic growth in recent years, poverty remains a persistent challenge, with a significant portion of the population struggling to meet basic needs. Unemployment rates, especially among youth, are high, limiting economic opportunities for the country’s largest demographic. Access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas, is another critical issue, with many Ugandans unable to afford or reach essential medical services. These challenges underscore the need for initiatives like the PDM that are designed to create sustainable economic opportunities, improve household incomes, and ensure equitable access to services.

“PDM seeks to empower households to create wealth, ultimately reducing dependence on subsistence farming and encouraging local economic development,” Prof. Suruma emphasized. He believes that the model’s holistic approach will foster greater self-sufficiency among Uganda’s communities by addressing poverty from multiple angles, including agricultural modernization, financial literacy, and service accessibility.

Part of the audience at the event. Stakeholders, researchers, and policymakers workshop to discuss the progress and emerging issues in the implementation of Uganda’s Parish Development Model (PDM), 12th November 2024, Council Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

As the workshop concluded, participants expressed optimism about PDM’s potential to drive sustainable change. Prof. Nawangwe reiterated Makerere University’s dedication to supporting this national initiative, affirming that the PDM Lab will continue to play a key role in assessing and enhancing the model’s effectiveness.

The Parish Development Model offers a beacon of hope for millions of Ugandans striving for a better quality of life, aligning with Uganda’s broader aspirations for economic growth, social equity, and sustainable development.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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Study Explores PPPs for Sustainable Development in Uganda’s Tourism and Health Sectors

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Prof. Akileng addresses the participants of the workshop. Research dissemination workshop by Dr. Jude Thaddeo Mugarura, lecturer and researcher, study "Managing the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Operating Environment for Sustainable Service Delivery in Uganda’s Tourism Sector" and Simon Peter Kyomuhendo, findings on “Public Private Partnership Adoption, Local Content Utilization, and Value for Money in the Ugandan Health Sector.” 11th November 2024, Conference Room, Room 2.2B, Level 2, School of Business, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

On November 11, 2024 the School of Business held a research dissemination workshop led by Dr. Jude Thaddeo Mugarura, a lecturer and researcher whose study focused on “Managing the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Operating Environment for Sustainable Service Delivery in Uganda’s Tourism Sector.” The event also featured research by his student, Simon Peter Kyomuhendo, who presented findings on “Public Private Partnership Adoption, Local Content Utilization, and Value for Money in the Ugandan Health Sector.”

Both studies, which delve into the role of PPPs in two crucial sectors—tourism and health—aim to provide insights into how strategic partnerships between public and private entities can address pressing service delivery challenges in Uganda. Dr. Mugarura’s study in the tourism sector emphasized the importance of a stable operating environment for PPPs, highlighting the need for clear policies, regulatory support, and sustainable practices that allow both public and private stakeholders to thrive. His research suggests that a conducive PPP environment is essential for Uganda’s tourism sector to achieve sustainability, attract international visitors, and create job opportunities, while preserving the country’s cultural and natural heritage.

Dr. Jude making his presentation. Research dissemination workshop by Dr. Jude Thaddeo Mugarura, lecturer and researcher, study "Managing the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Operating Environment for Sustainable Service Delivery in Uganda’s Tourism Sector" and Simon Peter Kyomuhendo, findings on “Public Private Partnership Adoption, Local Content Utilization, and Value for Money in the Ugandan Health Sector.” 11th November 2024, Conference Room, Room 2.2B, Level 2, School of Business, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Jude making his presentation.

Kyomuhendo’s research, titled “Public Private Partnership Adoption, Local Content Utilization, and Value for Money in the Ugandan Health Sector,” explored how PPPs can improve value for money (VFM) in healthcare delivery by encouraging local content utilization. His findings revealed a positive correlation between PPP adoption and VFM in healthcare, suggesting that well-structured partnerships can enhance efficiency and service quality. However, he noted that while PPPs support infrastructure development and resource allocation, local content utilization does not always have a strong moderating effect on VFM, indicating potential areas for policy improvement to ensure meaningful local engagement.

Dean of the School of Business, Prof. Godfrey Akileng, lauded the researchers for their dedication to tackling critical issues in Uganda’s development sectors. “These studies bring much-needed evidence to the table, demonstrating the potential of PPPs to transform our tourism and health sectors,” Prof. Akileng remarked. He emphasized that such research is pivotal to Makerere University’s commitment to producing actionable knowledge that aligns with Uganda’s national development goals.

Group photo of the participants. Research dissemination workshop by Dr. Jude Thaddeo Mugarura, lecturer and researcher, study "Managing the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Operating Environment for Sustainable Service Delivery in Uganda’s Tourism Sector" and Simon Peter Kyomuhendo, findings on “Public Private Partnership Adoption, Local Content Utilization, and Value for Money in the Ugandan Health Sector.” 11th November 2024, Conference Room, Room 2.2B, Level 2, School of Business, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Group photo of the participants.

Prof. Akileng extended his gratitude to the Carnegie Corporation of New York for supporting these projects, acknowledging that their funding was instrumental in advancing impactful research. “The generosity of our donor has enabled us to conduct thorough research and share insights that will inform policy and guide sustainable development efforts in Uganda,” he added.

The workshop encouraged discussion among participants, including policymakers, private sector representatives, and university staff, on the importance of PPPs in creating a resilient service delivery model. Dr. Mugarura highlighted the need for continual assessment of the PPP framework to adapt to evolving economic and social demands. He recommended that the government prioritize regulatory improvements and capacity building for local firms to enhance their role in PPP projects.

Participants listen to the presentation. Research dissemination workshop by Dr. Jude Thaddeo Mugarura, lecturer and researcher, study "Managing the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Operating Environment for Sustainable Service Delivery in Uganda’s Tourism Sector" and Simon Peter Kyomuhendo, findings on “Public Private Partnership Adoption, Local Content Utilization, and Value for Money in the Ugandan Health Sector.” 11th November 2024, Conference Room, Room 2.2B, Level 2, School of Business, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants listen to the presentation.

The dissemination workshop concluded with a collective call for increased collaboration between the public and private sectors. Both researchers emphasized that strategic partnerships hold the key to addressing Uganda’s service delivery challenges and achieving sustainable growth in tourism and healthcare.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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