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RE-Advert: Position of First Deputy Vice Chancellor

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Makerere University is governed by the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, Cap 262. The University is seeking applications from suitably qualified applicants for the position of First Deputy Vice-Chancellor. The First Deputy Vice Chancellor must possess a strong background in academic leadership, teaching, research, and strategic institutional management.

1. POSITION: FIRST DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR

2. SALARY SCALE: PU2

3: DUTY STATION: MAKERERE UNIVERSITY

4. ROLE

The First Deputy Vice-Chancellor will report to the Vice–Chancellor and shall:

  1. Assist the Vice Chancellor in performance of his or her functions and in that regard be responsible for the Academic affairs of the University
  2. In the absence of the Vice-Chancellor, perform the functions of the Vice-Chancellor and,
  3. Perform such other functions that may be delegated to him or her by the Vice Chancellor or assigned by the University Council.

5. PURPOSE OF THE JOB

To provide leadership and Coordination of academic and academic research matters to ensure effective and efficient implementation of policies, teaching and research programmes.

6. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Initiate, obtain approval of policies, plans and programmes that will enhance the academic and professional excellence of the University.
  2. Initiate, coordinate curriculum development and review for all courses offered at the University.
  3. Ensure that all examinations are set and marked in accordance with established Regulations.
  4. Coordinate the appointment of external examiners.
  5. Oversee the selection and admission of qualified students.
  6. Oversee the development of research programmes by liaising with Principals of Colleges/Deans of Schools and submit them to Senate and Council for approval.

7. CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION

  1. Hold a PhD or any other academic doctorate.
  2. Be at the rank of associate or full professor level in an institution whose academic ranking is comparable with that of Makerere University as accepted by Senate.
  3. Be a Ugandan citizen within the age bracket of 40 to 65 years at the time of application.

7.1 Academic Qualifications

  1. Earned a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in a relevant discipline.
  2. Minimum 5 years of progressive academic experience, including teaching, research, and academic administration at the level of dean of a school or higher.
  3. At least 20 peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals indexed in Scopus, Web of Science, or equivalent databases.
  4. Supervised at least ten (10) postgraduate students (Masters and PhD) to completion and graduation; at least three of these students must have been at the level of PhD.

7.2 Strategic Planning & Governance

  1. Evidence of having served or participated in university-level strategic planning processes including, membership to strategic planning committees and contribution to policy development and institutional growth.
  2. At least five years of demonstrated experience in academic programme accreditation processes contributing to the securing approvals from the relevant national or international regulatory bodies.
  3. Demonstrated evidence in leading at least one (1) higher education ICT integration initiative, improving online learning, digital governance, or student information systems or the development of at least one online course curriculum.

7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience

  1. A minimum of 5 years of senior academic leadership in a recognized institution comparable to that of Makerere University, as accepted by the Senate, at the level of Dean of a School or higher.
  2. Participated in the development and implementation of at least two (2) academic policies improving quality assurance, curriculum development, or institutional governance.
  3. Demonstrated ability to lead a school or college, ensuring optimal performance and professional development of members.
  4. Proven track record of mentoring at least 10 faculty members toward career progression and research output, including co-teaching, publication, and capacity development in areas of teaching and training, grants, research and innovations.
  5. Participated in at least three (3) university committees or initiatives on academic policy development, research and publications, or student affairs.
  6. Participation in mediation of at least five (5) student or faculty grievances, ensuring fair and transparent resolutions.

7.4 Teaching, Learning & Curriculum Development

  1. Led or contributed to the development of at least five (5) accredited academic programmes or curricula at undergraduate and postgraduate level.
  2. Participated in the Designing and conducting at least 10 faculty development workshops focused on pedagogy, research methodologies, or curriculum advancement.

7.5 Research & Innovation

  1. Secured at least $200,000 in competitive research grants from national or international funding agencies.
  2. Established or managed at least one (1) research centre, or college wide research programme or industry-academic partnerships.
  3. Published a minimum of five (5) books, or 5 book chapters, or patents (separate from the papers in peer reviewed journals), contributing to knowledge production in the discipline.
  4. Organized at least three (3) international or national research conferences, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.

7.6 Financial & Resource Management

  1. Successfully managed academic budgets exceeding UGX 500,000,000= in a leadership role.
  2. Led at least two (2) faculty resource mobilisation initiatives, increasing funding for research, scholarships, or infrastructure.
  3. Secured at least one (1) international academic partnership to enhance funding, student exchange, or faculty development.
  4. Developed and executed at least three (3) cost-cutting strategies, optimising institutional resources without compromising academic quality.

7.7 Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

  1. Built at least five (5) partnerships with government agencies, private sector stakeholders, or international academic institutions.
  2. Successfully led at least two (2) community engagement or outreach programmes, strengthening university-industry relations.
  3. Served on or contributed to at least three (3) University, national, or international education policy boards, shaping higher education discourse.

7.8 Personal Attributes

  1. Proven record of upholding institutional integrity, with no record of financial mismanagement or ethical violations.
  2. Demonstrated decision-making and problem-solving skills, having led at least five (5) crisis resolution initiatives.
  3. Recognized for academic leadership excellence, receiving at least one (1 ) award or recognition for contributions to higher education.

8. REMUNERATION

An attractive remuneration package that is in accordance with Makerere University terms and conditions of service.

9. TENURE

The First Deputy Vice Chancellor shall hold office for a period of five years and shall be eligible for re- appointment for one more term.

10. METHOD OF APPLICATION

Interested applicants are invited to submit their application letters. The following documents shall comprise a complete application:

  1. A signed letter of application;
  2. A vision statement;
  3. Curriculum Vitae with contact details signed and dated by the applicant;
  4. Copies of required minimum number of publications;
  5. Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates.
  6. Three (3) letters of recommendation;
  7. Copies of letters of appointment to leadership positions at the level of Dean of a School in a national accredited university or other academic institution;
  8. A copy of the applicant’s National Identity Card or passport;
  9. A copy of the last clearance from the Inspector General of Government or other equivalent national body.
  10. Referees should be advised to send confidential reference letters, addressed to the Chairperson Search Committee for the Position of First Deputy Vice Chancellor and delivered directly to the address below by 5:00 pm on Monday 14th April, 2025.
  11. The references should cover the following areas: the applicant’s academic credential, experience, leadership, managerial and administrative skills and personal integrity.

Both Hardcopy and Electronic (Email) applications shall be accepted.

a) Hardcopy applications: Both confidential letters and sealed applications marked “CONFIDENTIAL: POSITION OF FIRST DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLOR” should be addressed to:

SECRETARY SEARCH COMMITTEE
THE ACADEMIC REGISTRAR
MAKERERE UNIVERSITY
6TH Floor, ROOM 602, SENATE BUILDING
P.O.BOX 7062, KAMPALA, UGANDA

b) Electronic media (e-mail) applications should have all the above documents scanned and emailed to search.dvcaa@mak.ac.ug by 5.00 pm East African Standard Time on Monday 14th April, 2025.

Please note that:

a) Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered.

b) Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.

For more Information and inquiries: Visit our website https://mak.ac.ug/search-for-dvcs OR email us on search.dvcaa@mak.ac.ug OR Call Telephone number: +256-414-532634 during working hours (between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday).

MAKERERE UNIVERSITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

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AR Department Bids Farewell to Mr. Ssentongo and Ms. Akoli

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Mr. Charles Ssentongo (C) and Ms. Betty Akoli (3rd R) are joined by Staff and Family to cut cake at the farewell luncheon on 18th September 2026. Farewell Luncheon held by Department of Academic Registrar in honour of Mr. Charles Ssentongo, Deputy Academic Registrar – Undergraduate Admissions and Records and Ms. Betty Akoli, Assistant Academic Registrar presided over by Ag. Academic Registrar Ms. Prossie Nakayiki, 18th September 2026, Senate Conference Hal, Level 4, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Gerald Ochwo

On Friday 18th September 2026, the Department of the Academic Registrar, Makerere University, held a befitting farewell ceremony in honour of Mr. Charles Ssentongo and Ms. Betty Akoli, who have retired from University service upon attaining the mandatory retirement age of 60 years.

Mr. Ssentongo retires as Deputy Academic Registrar in charge of Undergraduate Admissions and Records, after 26 years of dedicated service to the University, a journey he began in 2000. Ms. Akoli retires as Assistant Academic Registrar.

Ms. Prossie Nakayiki (L) poses with Mr. Ssentongo (C) and Ms. Akoli (R) shortly after presenting them with their plaques. Farewell Luncheon held by Department of Academic Registrar in honour of Mr. Charles Ssentongo, Deputy Academic Registrar – Undergraduate Admissions and Records and Ms. Betty Akoli, Assistant Academic Registrar presided over by Ag. Academic Registrar Ms. Prossie Nakayiki, 18th September 2026, Senate Conference Hal, Level 4, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Prossie Nakayiki (L) poses with Mr. Ssentongo (C) and Ms. Akoli (R) shortly after presenting them with their plaques.

The farewell, held in the Senate Building Conference Hall, was presided over by Ms. Prossie Nakayiki, the Acting Academic Registrar, and was attended by members of the Senior Management Team and staff of the Academic Registrar’s Department.

In recognition of their distinguished and spotless service, the two retirees were awarded institutional plaques and assorted gifts from the Department and individual members of staff.

Mr. Ssentongo and Ms. Akoli receive gifts from staff of their former Units including Mr. Justus Karegyeya (2nd L) the Ag. Deputy Academic Registrar, Undergraduate Admissions and Records. Farewell Luncheon held by Department of Academic Registrar in honour of Mr. Charles Ssentongo, Deputy Academic Registrar – Undergraduate Admissions and Records and Ms. Betty Akoli, Assistant Academic Registrar presided over by Ag. Academic Registrar Ms. Prossie Nakayiki, 18th September 2026, Senate Conference Hal, Level 4, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Ssentongo and Ms. Akoli receive gifts from staff of their former Units including Mr. Justus Karegyeya (2nd L) the Ag. Deputy Academic Registrar, Undergraduate Admissions and Records.

Mr. Ssentongo and Ms. Akoli’s retirement follows that of other senior members of the Department, including Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi, who retired earlier this year.

The Department of the Academic Registrar remains deeply indebted to Mr. Ssentongo and Ms. Akoli for their highly committed, exemplary, and dedicated service to Makerere University. We wish them a happy, healthy, and fulfilling retirement.

Ms. Betty Akoli receives a gift from a former colleague. Farewell Luncheon held by Department of Academic Registrar in honour of Mr. Charles Ssentongo, Deputy Academic Registrar – Undergraduate Admissions and Records and Ms. Betty Akoli, Assistant Academic Registrar presided over by Ag. Academic Registrar Ms. Prossie Nakayiki, 18th September 2026, Senate Conference Hal, Level 4, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Betty Akoli receives a gift from a former colleague.

We celebrate you.

More photos from the event: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjD5btz

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Prof. Sarah Ssali shares institutional best practices ahead of The Trust Summit

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Prof. Sarah Ssali, Panelist, Virtual Round Table on Restoring Trust in Academia and the Knowledge Economy, September 15, 2026. Graphic: X/@GTSummit2026

Prof. Sarah Ssali the First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA) at Makerere University was one of the panelists that addressed the complex challenges facing African higher education during a Virtual Round Table on Restoring Trust in Academia and the Knowledge Economy held September 15, 2026. The event was organised by Strathmore University as part of the pre-summit events for The Trust Summit (TTS), due to be held in Nairobi, Kenya from October 21-23, 2026.

She was also welcomed in her capacity as the Director of the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Centre of Excellence in Notions of Identity, a platform she used to deliver warm regards from the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. Other panelists included; Dr. Vincent Ogutu-Vice Chancellor, Strathmore University and Prof. Gilbert Kokwaro-Director, Institute of Healthcare Management, Strathmore University Business School, while the Moderator was Dr. Maureen Syallow-Senior Lecturer, Strathmore University.

In her submission, Prof. Ssali emphasised the need to understand that universities are working in a turbulent times, and do not deserve to be at the receiving end of some of the challenges being ascribed to them. She added that challenges affecting society ought to be handled in partnership with other stakeholders and key players.

An example of this kind of criticism is on the question on the quality and integrity of degrees that has come up severally and is being fueled by the fact that not many graduates can find gainful employment after completing university.

“We have many more people living longer, getting educated, and chasing fewer jobs. For example, in the case of Uganda, we graduate around 40,000 students per year, but only 700 jobs are being created in the public sector per year” she noted.

Turning to the need to maintain standards and trust, Prof. Ssali outlined the rigorous systems already in place. These include holistic curriculum development involving stakeholders such as the National Council of Higher Education, Government Ministries, and the National Planning Authority.

Prof. Ssali also highlighted the importance of quality assurance, international benchmarking, and constant evaluations. She nevertheless conceded that despite having all these efforts in place, universities still face immense pressure from ranking systems and the need to prove their worth.

Reflecting on the historical debate regarding the role of an African university, she contrasted the school of thought advocating for global competitiveness with that emphasising practical relevance to local development challenges, concluding that taking the middle path; globally competitive and locally relevant, remains the viable option.

Addressing the issue of trust directly, Prof. Ssali noted that universities, just like the aviation and healthcare industries, are more concerned with what systems are in place to correct any errors should they arise.

She explained that just as one plane crash does not shut down the aviation industry, a single failure in a university does not warrant shutting it down. Instead, the focus should be on checking the black box, correcting errors, and improving standards to ensure the institution continues to serve its purpose.

Elvis Lubanga, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Elvis Lubanga

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“We are moving in the right direction” Prof Nawangwe to Press

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Seated: Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (C) flanked by Prof. Sarah Ssali (2nd L) and Prof. Moses Musinguzi (2nd R), Members of Management and other officials (Seated and Standing) at the Press Conference on 15th September 2026. Vice Chancellor's Press Conference, VC's Boardroom, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Addressing members of the Media at the Vice Chancellor (VC)’s September 15, 2026 Press Conference, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe shared that Makerere University rose 295 places moving from 1,071st in 2025 to 776th in the July 2026 Webometrics Ranking of World Universities. This is a noteworthy improvement on a global scale and on continental level, where the university moved from 13th place earlier this year to 11th.

Still in the right direction, the number of graduate students completing their studies at Makerere has nearly doubled over the past five years as the University steps up efforts to improve training and research output. The completion rates have increased from 1,588 in 2023 to 1,874 in 2024, 2199 in 2025 and 2,922 in 2026.

The Vice Chancellor attributed this growth partly to government funding and digital systems that have been set up to track student progress.

Improving the Academic Environment

In alignment with VC, the First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA), Prof. Sarah Ssali assured the media that a number of quality assurance measures have been put in place to improve the university’s core functions. These range from assessment forms that enable students to evaluate their courses and provide feedback that can be used to improve teaching and learning as well as research environments.

In line with digitalisation of University processes, Prof. Ssali noted that the Academic Management Information System (ACMIS) enables supervisors, colleges and University Management to identify delays in student progress and take corrective action.

The system currently empowers students to track their academic progress and print their own testimonials, and in future, transcripts, without having to queue up. These services are accessible by students who have fulfilled their tuition obligations.

Infrastructure Development

The Acting Second Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration (DVC F&A) and Principal, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Prof. Moses Musinguzi, shared that the university has undertaken extensive infrastructure expansion and renovation projects, with funding from government, philanthropists and donors.

“One of the infrastructures being the building that is going to house the graduate school, among others” he elaborated.

Research News – FLOWERS Project

Makerere University prides itself as a thought leader in knowledge generation for societal transformation and development. Makerere researchers and partners have launched the FLOWERS Project — Facilitating Local Organic Waste Exchange for Regenerative Systems. Led locally by Assoc. Prof. Charles B. Niwagaba, the two-year project (2026–2028) aims to turn restaurant food waste in Kampala into animal feed and organic fertiliser. Project Kick-off Meeting: https://news.mak.ac.ug/2026/09/makerere-partners-kick-off-flowers-project-to-turn-restaurant-waste-into-a-regenerative-resource/

Upcoming Events highlighted

Makerere Marathon
The sixth edition of the Makerere University Marathon will take place on Sunday, 27 September 2026, starting and finishing at Freedom Square. Marathon kits are available at UGX 50,000 and can be purchased online via https://shorturl.at/Vjovo

The Annual Makerere Guild Medical Camp
The camp will be held from 17th to 18th September 2026, starting at 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., in the Freedom Square. The Camp is organised by Guild leadership under the Office of the Dean of Students. Link: https://events.mak.ac.ug/events/2026/09/17/816

The Press Conference was graced by Members of Management, Staff and the media fraternity who were all appreciated for their contribution informing the public about developments at Makerere. This press briefing is part of the media engagements organised by the university Public Relations Office aimed at fostering open communication lines with the public through the media. It happens every two months with the previous one having taken place on 15th July 2026.

Please see Downloads for the Press Statement and its supporting documents.

Photography by Benite Uwase, Public Relations Office, Makerere University

Elvis Lubanga, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Elvis Lubanga

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