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Mak Co-operative Society financial performance excites Members: More strategies proposed for continuous growth

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On 26th February 2025, members of Makerere University Multi-Purpose Co-operative Society (MUMCS) convened for the Annual General Meeting (AGM) to discuss the Society’s financial performance, progress and future plans.

MUMCS has realised significant growth and financial stability, with a strong commitment to its members. The pay incentive bonus, remains at 14.5% of surplus returns until a future review. As the Society continues to grow and expand its services, it is expected to play an increasingly important role in promoting financial inclusion and economic development in Uganda.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Left) delivers the Chairperson's address alongside Prof. Juma Kasozi (Right). Makerere University Multi-Purpose Co-operative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM) to discuss the Society’s financial performance, progress and future plans, 26th February 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Left) delivers the Chairperson’s address alongside Prof. Juma Kasozi (Right).

MUMCS has 136 active members who are members of staff at Makerere University. MUMCS has a Board of Directors and Secretariat that works with the Investments Committee, Loans Committee, Finance Committee, Welfare Committee, and the Supervisory Committee.

The Chairperson of MUMCS, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe welcomed the Members (physically present at Makerere University Main Hall and those who were following virtually via zoom) to the AGM. He encouraged the Members to continue saving and investing in the cooperative society.

Left to Right: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, CPA David Ssenoga, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Prof. Juma Kasozi. Makerere University Multi-Purpose Co-operative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM) to discuss the Society’s financial performance, progress and future plans, 26th February 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Left to Right: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, CPA David Ssenoga, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Prof. Juma Kasozi.

To kick start the AGM, the Chairperson made reference to the Agenda, which had been shared ahead of time to the respective Members. The Agenda focused on critical issues such as achievements, dividend allocation, recruitment plans, loan repayment strategies, potential investment opportunities, among other items. Following the adoption of the agenda during the AGM, the Chairperson invited the Secretary- Prof. Tumps Winston Ireeta, and the Treasurer- Prof. Juma Kasozi to present to the AGM key highlights.

Prof. Kasozi confirmed that the performance of the society was satisfactory. The Treasurer’s report, highlighted the society’s significant progress in 2024. The society disbursed loans amounting to UGX 1 billion, while savings accrued amounted to UGX 1.8 billion, and share value stood at UGX 386 million. The society’s total assets available for investment are worth UGX 2.25 billion, with a return on investment of 12.95%. The AGM was informed that the Cooperative’s balance sheet exceeded UGX 2billion, a testament to its robust financial position.

Prof. Juma Kasozi (Right) alongside Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Left) presents the Society's performance. Makerere University Multi-Purpose Co-operative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM) to discuss the Society’s financial performance, progress and future plans, 26th February 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Juma Kasozi (Right) alongside Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Left) presents the Society’s performance.

Summary of the Key statistics:

  • Total loans disbursed: UGX 1 billion
  • Savings: UGX 1.8 billion
  • Share value: UGX 386 million
  • Total assets available for investment: UGX 2.25 billion
  • Return on investment: 12.95%
  • Unit trusts: UGX 801,127,970 (ICEA LION) and UGX 608,138,265 (UAP OLD MUTUAL)
  • Surplus: UGX 166 million
  • Dividends: The payment of dividends not exceeding 10% of the surplus.

The Auditor’s report was presented, confirming that the society’s financial statements provide a true and fair view of its financial position as of December 31, 2024. The Auditor commended the society’s management for their excellent work in managing the society’s finances.

“I commend the Board and Secretariat for having a well-managed and governed society. Your scheme is one of the best. We are glad that Makerere University Multi-Purpose Co-operative Society, the balance sheet is above UGX 2 billion,” CPA David Ssenoga said.

The Society Auditor, CPA David Ssenoga. Makerere University Multi-Purpose Co-operative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM) to discuss the Society’s financial performance, progress and future plans, 26th February 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Society Auditor, CPA David Ssenoga.

During the AGM, members proposed the following strategies to spur the continuous growth of MUMCS:  Undertaking sensitization, publicity and mobilization drives/campaigns, development of publicity materials such as brochures, encouraging members to take loans, presenting proposals to reward bonus incentives to the highest savers and members with a significant number of shares, as well as providing financial incentives to members who take loans and repay them faithfully. In addition, the strategies stated in the MUMCS Strategic Plan will be implemented to ensure financial diversity and sustainability.

The Chairperson of the Supervisory Committee, Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi presented the committee’s report, highlighting the society’s compliance with the Co-operative Societies Act and the by-laws. Other Members of the Supervisory Committee include: Dr. Hamidah Nakato and Dr. Fred Edgar Nabutanyi. The Supervisory Committee reported that during its meetings, it reviewed various activities undertaken by the Board of Directors. They noted that since the AGM meeting held in February 2024, several achievements had been realized. These included the approval of new bylaws, a revised credit policy, and the establishment of the MUMCS office.  The Supervisory Committee reported that 12 members joined MUMCS in 2024. The Committee appreciated Mr. Raymond Nsereko for developing the MUMCS logo and acknowledged Ms Ritah Namisango for coordinating the branding of the MUMCS office.

Chairperson of the Supervisory Committee, Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi presents his report. Makerere University Multi-Purpose Co-operative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM) to discuss the Society’s financial performance, progress and future plans, 26th February 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Chairperson of the Supervisory Committee, Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi presents his report.

In their report, the Supervisory Committee presented the proposed candidates for consideration as Members of the Vetting Committee namely:  Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, Prof. Lawrence Mugisha and Dr. Alex Okello.

It was gratifying to note that the AGM unanimously agreed to have the Vetting Committee constituted as per the proposed names.

The Vetting Committee is expected to develop the Fit and Proper test for all applicants vying for the positions on the Board of Directors and the Supervisory Board, advertise the positions and administer the Fit and Proper test (written through Nomination Form and Oral), and present the successful applicants to MUMCS members for elections.

Ms Ritah Namisango speaks on behalf of the Welfare Committee. Makerere University Multi-Purpose Co-operative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM) to discuss the Society’s financial performance, progress and future plans, 26th February 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms Ritah Namisango speaks on behalf of the Welfare Committee.

On behalf of the Welfare Committee, Ms Ritah Namisango applauded the Board and Secretariat for implementing the Welfare Policy. The Members of the Welfare Committee include: Michael Kasusse, Ritah Namisango and Oscar Mugula. She noted that with the implementation of the Welfare Policy, Members are in position to receive support towards Weddings, Medical obligations, and bereavement as per the terms and conditions specified in the policy. Noting that the society exists to advance the welfare of its members, she thanked the AGM for approving the proposed UGX 10million for such purposes.

The Board informed the AGM that in compliance with the rules and regulations that govern the sector, various policies including human resources, anti-money laundering, and procurement are being developed for MUMCS.

In his concluding remarks, the Chairperson of MUMCS, Prof. Nawangwe acknowledged the cooperative’s impressive financial returns, noting that it outperformed other savings schemes in terms of interest. He also urged members to avoid unnecessary withdrawals, emphasizing the long-term benefits of keeping their savings within the cooperative society. He commended the team responsible for the cooperative’s success, including the Secretariat and Fund managers.

Ritah Namisango
Ritah Namisango

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Strengthening Collaboration between Makerere University and the University of Groningen

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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

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Makerere and Nelson Mandela University Move to Actualize Existing MoU

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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

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

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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

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