General
Elizabeth Gabeya’s Unforgettable Day in the Makerere Vice Chancellor’s Seat
By Carol Kasujja Adii
It was a dream come true for 21-year-old Elizabeth Gabeya, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar at Makerere University, when she took charge of the Vice Chancellor’s office for two days- March 10th and 11th.
She temporarily assumed the role of Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the office bearer, a day after International Women’s Day. Each year, Uganda joins the rest of the world in commemorating International Women’s Day. To mark the occasion, Prof Nawangwe permitted a first-year female student to shadow him for two days as he went about his daily activities.
Excited about the opportunity, Gabeya, a student pursuing a Bachelor of Agricultural and Rural Innovation, arrived at 1:00 p.m., ahead of the appointed time. Dressed in a white T-shirt and blue jeans, she underwent security checks at the Main Building entrance.
She was escorted to the Vice Chancellor’s office on the second floor by Betty Kyakuwa, the University’s Acting Deputy Chief of Public Relations. As she made her way to the Vice Chancellor’s office, Gabeya nervously called out the name of Jesus.
At 2:30, Gabeya was summoned to the Vice Chancellor’s office. She entered with confidence and shook Professor Nawangwe’s hand, and at precisely 2:40, she assumed the position of Vice Chancellor.
She received a team of senior staff from the Uganda Revenue Authority, His Excellency Vincent Lubega Nsamba, the 90th Guild President of Makerere University, and other members who had come to discuss the 90th Guild celebrations with the Vice Chancellor.
She advised the guild President to write to her office to officially inform her of the event. During the discussion, she also pointed out that over the last six graduation ceremonies, Makerere University has seen a rising number of female graduates. At the recent graduation in January, 53% of the graduates were female, while 47% were male.
The Team also discussed how the university could support male students, just as it has done for female students. Professor Nawangwe listened attentively, demonstrating a sincere interest in their perspectives.
Experience as the Vice Chancellor
Gabeya recounts that the hour she spent with Professor Nawangwe was an inspiring and unforgettable experience. She learned about his other side.
“I have never thought that I would ever enter the Vice Chancellor’s office; all along, I believed he met with students who perform well, those with talent, and dignitaries. I was surprised when I entered his office and he said: “Welcome, Elizabeth; you are the Vice Chancellor.” She adds that as she approached the VC’s office, she kept wondering what she would discuss when she was finally ushered into the Vice Chancellor’s presence, but Prof Nawangwe’s fatherly aura dispelled all her apprehensions, and she found herself feeling quite comfortable.
“He struck me as a father-figure, friendly, down to earth, simple and a listener, he allowed me to chair a meeting and also ask him questions. The Vice Chancellor’s words challenged me to dream bigger, work harder, and seek opportunities beyond the classroom,” she said
Though it was an hour-long event, the experience made Gabeya feel valued and engaged as a student and scholar at the University.
At 3:00 p.m., she handed over the office back to Prof Nawangwe, who still wanted her to be around and chair more meetings.
“Thank you, Prof Nawangwe, for allowing me to be the Vice Chancellor. This is not just an event, it is a milestone in my academic journey. It has reminded me that I am part of a bigger mission to lead, innovate and create a better future for my community,” Gabeya expressed gratitude.
Prof. Nawangwe speaks out
In an interview, Prof. Nawangwe noted that role-playing is a powerful tool for mentoring the young generation and preparing them for leadership.
“This action is a strong catalyst, propelling many young women into leadership and positioning them as agents of change in their communities,” Prof. Nawangwe remarked. He further highlighted Makerere University‘s commitment to women’s empowerment through various initiatives, including mentorship programs, scholarships, and leadership training as prescribed under the SDG 4.
“Over the years, Makerere has made significant strides in promoting gender equity. We have seen a steady increase in female enrollment and graduation rates, with women now outnumbering men at recent graduation ceremonies. Our goal is to continue nurturing women leaders, researchers, and innovators who will contribute meaningfully to national and global development,” he added.
Today, Gabeya attended the university’s Top Management meeting, which she chaired, receiving guests from Mauritius. The guests shared opportunities for venture capitalism with the management team, which excited Elizabeth. She expressed her hope to visit Mauritius one day to learn more about investment financing.
“I will never forget these two days in my life. As a student, I cannot afford to get retakes or be average. I am going to study hard and see that one day I occupy that office,” Gabeya said.
Makerere University has made a notable advance by officially launching the implementation of its Mentorship Policy. This initiative aims to strengthen support and guidance for students, fostering personal and academic growth within the university community. This was announced on Thursday, 13 November 2025, by Prof. Sarah Ssali, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic Affairs, in her remarks delivered by the Dean of Students, Dr. Winfred Kabumbuli, during the annual workshop for mentors of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, held at the Fairway Hotel.
Prof. Ssali praised the university’s mentors for their outstanding work in supporting students.
“I am pleased to join my fellow mentors at this crucial capacity-building workshop organised under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University. It is important to recognise and commend your unwavering dedication to the holistic development of our Scholars. Your roles in mentorship, safeguarding, and fostering inclusion are essential, and together, we must continue to advance these efforts for the benefit of our Scholars,” asserted Prof. Ssali.
Prof. Ssali expressed her enthusiasm, noting that mentorship closely aligns with the shared mission: ensuring that all Makerere University students feel safe, thrive, and achieve their academic and personal goals.
“Our efforts in student affairs are incomplete unless we provide our students with the mentorship, guidance, and support they need to develop into responsible global citizens. Safeguarding, mentorship, and inclusion are not just programmatic themes; they are values that define the Makerere University community we seek to build,” Prof. Ssali remarked.
Prof. Ssali further praised the University Council and Management for adopting key policies, the Mentorship Policy 2025 and the Safeguarding Policy 2024, which are essential for the well-being of students and staff at Makerere University.
“I wish to commend the University Council and Management for approving and implementing the Makerere University Career Guidance and Mentorship Policy (2025) and the Safeguarding Policy (2024). These policies provide structure and accountability to our work, helping us strengthen systems that protect and support our students and staff,” Prof. Ssali noted.
Speaking in her role as the Dean of Students, Dr. Kabumbuli highlighted the importance of Mentorship, inclusion, and safeguarding as the critical areas in managing student affairs at Makerere University.
“Safeguarding reminds us of our duty to create and maintain a learning environment where every student feels safe, respected, and valued. Career guidance and mentorship remind us that academic excellence must go hand in hand with personal growth, discipline, and preparation for life after university. Inclusive mentorship compels us to extend our support to every learner, including those with disabilities, those from refugee backgrounds, young mothers, and international students, ensuring that no one is left behind,” Dr. Kabumbuli asserted.
Dr. Kabumbuli urged the mentors to reaffirm their shared commitment to a student-centred approach, one that recognises the human dignity, potential, and diversity of every Scholar. She encouraged the mentors to continue exemplifying the values of integrity, professionalism, and compassion that embody the spirit of Makerere.
On behalf of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and the Africa Climate Collaborative, Program Director Prof. Justine Namaalwa shared exciting news with the Program mentors about the recent recruitment of 191 undergraduate scholars and 41 graduate students. She highlighted the importance of providing mentorship and guidance to these scholars, who come from diverse backgrounds and possess various strengths and challenges. Prof. Namaalwa encouraged everyone to actively support these students as they embark on their academic journeys.
“We were excited to welcome 191 undergraduate and 41 master’s Scholars to the Programme this academic year. These talented individuals hail from diverse backgrounds and bring immense potential, and they need your active support and mentorship,” Prof. Namaalwa remarked.
Prof. Namaalwa further requested that, as the University continues to recruit more mentors, it’s essential to recognise that effective mentorship goes beyond mere knowledge sharing. It involves actively listening, empathizing with the mentees, and empowering them to forge their own unique paths.
”Together, we can create a supportive environment that fosters growth and success for all our Scholars and students of Makerere University.” Prof. Namaalwa pointed.
The Annual Mentors’ Workshop, which was attended by over 70 mentors from different units of the University and others from other organisations, featured a range of activities designed to enhance mentors’ skills and understanding. Mr. Musa Mwambu from Light for the World, a partner of the Mastercard Foundation, led a valuable training session focused on inclusion, equipping participants with essential insights. Additionally, Mr Apollo Mulondo from the Refugee Law Project provided an in-depth training session designed to empower mentors to support students with refugee status effectively. The workshop also included opportunities for mentors to hear firsthand from young individuals, including a student with disabilities and two safeguarding champions, enriching their understanding and commitment to inclusive mentorship.
The writer is the Principal Communications Officer for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
General
Makerere University Writing Centre trains first cohort of staff on professional minute writing
By Christopher Kaahwa and Ritah Namisango
On 6th November 2025, the Makerere University Writing Centre (MakWC) held a training workshop aimed at enhancing professional writing skills among University staff.
Focusing on official documentation and record keeping, the training, hosted at the School of Business Conference Hall, attracted participants from different University units, including Assistant Administrative Officers and Assistant Academic Registrars. This marked the first cohort of trainees to benefit from the program, which covered topics such as the fundamentals and responsibilities of a minute taker, writing techniques, policy and legal considerations, e-meeting platforms, and the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Patience Rubabinda Mushengyezi, the Deputy Academic Registrar, who represented the Academic Registrar, Professor Buyinza Mukadasi, commended the Writing Centre for championing the growth of writing skills across the University. “I want to thank the team from the Writing Centre for considering the Academic Registrar’s Department. Writing is central to everything that we do – from keeping accurate minutes to communicating decisions. This training will greatly improve our writing skills,” she said.
Mrs. Mushengyezi emphasized that official records, especially minutes, must be accurate, ethical, and well-structured. She reminded participants that minutes are not mere summaries, but legal and public documents that can serve as evidence in administrative or legal matters. “When we write minutes, we must remember they represent official proceedings and can be used in courts of law. This calls for professionalism, clarity, and ethical responsibility in your daily work,” she stated.
Speaking during the workshop, Professor Fredrick Jones Muyodi, the Team Leader, Makerere University Writing Centre (MakWC), explained that the Centre is pivoted to support the University’s strategic goal of becoming a research-led institution by 2030. Established and institutionalized in 2025 by the University Senate and Council, the Centre operates under the Directorate of Research, Innovations, and Partnerships (DRIP).
Professor Muyodi shared that the Centre has developed a comprehensive training and mentorship program to build writing skills across the University and beyond. The program will involve experts and mentors experienced in writing, collaborative research, and publication. It will use a hybrid approach, combining traditional teaching with online learning, case studies, and hands-on practice.
He also revealed that the Centre will offer short courses, lasting up to two weeks, in key areas such as academic, technical and scientific writing, editing and proofreading, policy brief and report writing, writing for community engagement, professional writing for administrators, and publishing. “These courses will strengthen the writing capacity of both staff and students while promoting research translation and effective communication,” he said.
On behalf of the Writing Center, Professor Ronald Bisaso commended the support from the Directorate of Human Resource and the Academic Registrar’ department for the identification of capacity development gaps, that provided the basis for the choice of topics and training facilitators.
During her presentation on the Fundamentals and Roles of a Minute Taker, Mrs. Mushengyezi underscored the importance of understanding institutional structures and governing frameworks before taking on the role of writing minutes. She explained that Makerere University’s governance system – from the University Council and Senate down to College Boards and departmental committees, operates under clear mandates, which minute writers must understand to accurately record proceedings.
She noted that effective minute writing begins with proper preparation, which includes knowing the committee composition, consulting the Chairperson about meeting details, and ensuring members receive timely notices and agendas. She advised participants to differentiate between regular, special, and emergency meetings, as each requires a unique approach to documentation. Drawing from experience, she encouraged participants to arrive early for meetings, verify meeting logistics, and carry official record books to ensure accuracy. “A well-prepared minute writer, not only captures discussions accurately, but also upholds the credibility of the meeting,” she remarked.
Mrs. Proscovia Nakayiki, Acting Deputy Academic Registrar (Examinations and Transcripts), led a session on Writing Techniques. During the session, she emphasized that minutes are vital for accountability, serve as a record for future reference, and inform those who missed meetings. “Well-written minutes should tell a clear, flowing story that remains meaningful even years later,” she said.
Ms. Nakayiki stressed that minute writing requires preparation and structure. She advised secretaries to be familiar with the meeting type and agenda, list all attendees and absentees, clearly summarize discussions, and outline action points. She also encouraged the use of templates, testing of recording devices beforehand, and remaining attentive during meetings to capture key decisions accurately.
Presenting on Policy and Legal Frameworks for Minute Writing, Ms. Esther Kabinga, Principal Legal Officer discussed the laws and policies that govern record keeping in Uganda. She noted that minutes are crucial for transparency and accountability, citing laws such as the Companies Act (2012), Public Finance Management Act (2015), and Access to Information Act. She also referenced some of Makerere University policies, including the Record Keeping Policy, Academic Records Management Policy (2022), and Communications Policy (2013). “Proper documentation protects both the institution and the individuals involved in decision-making,” she emphasized.
Discussing the Ethical and Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, Director of the Institute of Open, Distance and e-Learning, noted that AI has become part of everyday life. He commended Makerere University for adopting an official AI policy that promotes its ethical, inclusive, and responsible use in teaching, research, administration, and innovation. He urged participants to use AI as a supportive tool, combining it with human judgment and creativity while writing.
Building on to the aforementioned presentation, Dr. Godfrey Mayende, the Head, Department of Distance Learning and Deputy Director at the Institute of Open, Distance and eLearning, highlighted the role of digital platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and WebEx in improving meeting efficiency and documentation. He pointed out that these platforms provide useful features like recording, transcription, and chat functions that make meetings more interactive and inclusive. “Familiarity with these tools enhances accountability and ensures that discussions are well-documented and easy to retrieve,” he advised.
Writers: Ritah Namisango is a Principal Communication Officer at Makerere University. Christopher Kaahwa contributed to this article as a Volunteer. Christopher Kaahwa is a Graduate of Makerere University-Bachelor of Journalism and Communication.
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