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Vice Chancellor Updates Media on Digital Transformation, DVCs Search & Various Issues

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The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe addresses the Media on various issues, 4th March 2025. Vice Chancellor's Press Briefing, 4th March 2025, Council Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe addresses the Media on various issues, 4th March 2025.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe on Tuesday 4th March, 2025 held a press conference to update members of the Media on Automation of University Business Operations, the Search for the First and Second Deputy Vice Chancellors in charge of Academic Affairs (DVC AA) and Finance and Administration (DVC F&A) respectively, as well as a host of various issues. The event held in the Council Room, Main Building, was attended by the Acting (Ag.) DVC AA and substantive Academic Registrar-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Ag. DVC F&A-Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Dean of Students-Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli and the Director for ICT Support (DICTS)-Mr. Samuel Mugabi.

Also in attendance were; the Deputy University Secretary-Mr. Simon Kizito, Representative of the Ag. Manager Planning and Development-Mr. Moses Oluka, Outgoing Guild President-H.E. Vincent Lubega Nsamba, Deputy Chief – Public Relations-Ms. Betty Kyakuwa and staff from the Offices of the Vice and Deputy Vice Chancellors.

The proceedings of the Press Conference follow below;

Vice Chancellors’ Press Statement

As we commence the month of March, I wish to start by thanking all our staff for their diligent and dedicated service to our University and Country. Makerere University occupies a prominent position in the region when it comes to teaching and learning, research and innovation as well as knowledge transfer partnerships. I therefore wish to update the public on a few developments:

1. Automation of University Business Operations

Makerere University’s Strategic Plan (2020-2030) prioritizes digital transformation (DX) to establish the institution as a research-led, digitally driven university. To this end, the University Council has approved several Management Information Systems whose aim is to further professionalize management of university functions. In line with Uganda’s Buy Uganda Build Uganda (BUBU) policy, Makerere has embraced in-house software development as a sustainable approach to business process automation. Leveraging student and staff expertise, the university has developed several information systems to enhance efficiency and transparency.

Key systems include:

  1. Academic Management Information System (ACMIS) – Enables online student applications, tuition payments, results access, and timely graduation. ACMIS successfully supported the 74th and 75th graduation cohorts.
  2. Electronic Human Resource Management System (eHRMS) – Automates job applications, leave management, promotions, and payroll accuracy, improving staffing planning.
  3. Financial Management System (Mak-FMS) – Facilitates digital requisitions, approvals, and financial monitoring, increasing transparency and reducing paperwork.
  4. Biometric Attendance Management System – Tracks staff presence and ensures adherence to schedules. A student attendance system will soon provide mobile-based lecture attendance monitoring.
  5. Academic Registrar’s Electronic Document and Records Management System (AR-EDRMS) – Digitizes student records and credential verification, set to greatly reduce the need for physical visits from April 2025 onwards.
  6. Grants Management Information System – Monitors financial performance, research alignment with the National Development Plan, and research outputs.
  7. Hospital Management Information System – Still in early implementation, but evolving to automate hospital operations.

These systems have streamlined operations, improved service delivery, and enhanced transparency, reinforcing Makerere’s commitment to digital transformation and innovation in higher education. This is why you no longer have students in long queues, while transcripts and certificates are given to the student before graduation day. 

2. Search for Deputy Vice Chancellors –A/A and F/A

The search for individuals to fill the positions of Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) at Makerere University has officially commenced.

Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) – DVC F&A

The Office of Deputy Vice Chancellor Finance and Administration has not had a substantive official since 2020 when the high court nullified the appointment of Prof. William Bazeyo, after one of the contestants alleged that the process was irregular. The second attempt to have the positioned filled substantively was again stopped by court following a petition by the same contestant.

Last year, the contestant withdrew the case, allowing for the search process to resume.  Upon its resumption, however, another contestant petitioned court. The University Council has now guided that the university holds a fresh search for a substantive DVC F&A.

Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) – DVC AA

For the position of DVC AA, the former’s term ended in Dec 2023, whereupon he was given a short acting contract. While his appraisal was going on, he petitioned court, citing delays in completing his appraisal.  Owing to the court matter, the University Council could not continue with his appraisal. However, Council has decided it is time to substantively fill the position hence setting up the search committee.   

To ensure a rigorous and objective selection process, the University Senate on 26th February constituted two Search Committees – one for each of the vacant positions. The committees were given two (2) months in which to report back to Senate. Senate will then forward the required three (3) names to Council. We hope that this process will be completed within three (3) months.

3. Students Work Scheme

Every year, over 1,000 students drop out of university due to failure to raise tuition. The University Council has negotiated various work schemes to support such students. Some of these include; Mastercard Female Scholarships Scheme, Chinese Ambassador Scholarship, Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Scheme, Welcome Trust Scheme, NORAD as well as the University Graduate Fellowship Scheme which waives tuition for students who engage in teaching. The university has also got a Staff Scholarship Scheme, which waives tuition for staff that wish to further their education. Despite all these interventions, we still continue to see students dropping out of university. To this end, the University Council established the Students Work Scheme, through which students can raise fees.

Through the work schemes, students access part-time employment to help them meet their financial needs and also, to get work experience which they will use in search for gainful employment after studies. Under the Scheme, 56 students were recruited as Hall Attendants and office attendants. Their roles include cleaning and assisting in administrative duties. Another 10 were attached to a private company as sales representatives. Students work part-time, with flexible hours that do not conflict with their academic commitments. They receive a modest salary of Shs1.2m as compensation for their services, helping them meet their financial needs. The successful recruitment of 66 students under the scheme is just the beginning. We plan to expand the program to more than 100 students and include more diverse roles across different departments.

4. Guild Elections

Makerere University is set to hold elections for a new Students Guild Council on 12th March, 2025. These elections provide an important platform for students to exercise their democratic rights and actively participate in shaping the leadership that will represent their interests. The university administration encourages all students to fully participate in the electoral process, so as to ensure that their voices are heard and their concerns are represented in the governance of the institution.

We extend our appreciation to the outgoing Guild President, Mr. Vincent Lubega Nsamba, and his leadership team for their dedicated service and contributions to the student community. Under his leadership, the Guild Council has advocated for student welfare, promoted peaceful dialogue, enhanced student engagement and strengthened student governance.

The university administration, in collaboration with the Student Electoral Commission, is taking necessary measures to ensure free and fair elections as well as safety and security of all staff and students of the university during and after electioneering.

5. Disability Support Centre

The University has a comprehensive policy on Disability and recently Council approved a Safe Guarding Policy. Both policies will go a long way in supporting students. Owing to this, Council recently established the Disability Support Centre, with support from Mastercard Foundation which has provided initial equipment and staff.

Located at Level 1 of the Frank Kalimuzo Building, this dedicated space is transforming the educational experiences of students with impairments, fostering a sense of community, and equipping them with vital academic and life skills. The Centre will support the students in various ways so that they don’t have to move from building to building for support.

The Endowment Fund, recently conducted the MakRun, whose proceeds will go towards supporting the Disability Centre.

6. Infrastructure development

With substantial support from the Government, Makerere University has made significant strides in enhancing its critical infrastructure for teaching, research, and student residences/welfare, alongside initiating new infrastructure projects.

Following the phased approach to renovate student halls of residence, the University Management is pleased to report that the renovation of Lumumba Hall was completed in 2024, while that of Mary Stuart Hall is ongoing. On completion of the renovation of Mary Stuart Hall, the Contractors will proceed to Complex Hall. The University has also constructed two (2) new buildings for the School of Law and School of Dentistry.

Others include;

  1. School of Graduate Training and Research Building

This building will go a long way in helping the university achieve its strategic goal of becoming research-led. The building will house study rooms for PhD students and an innovation hub. We appreciate Tororo Cement who are funding this project, with support from the First Lady, to the tune of US$8 million.

  1. School of Public Health Building

The construction of the School of Public Health building, near the Eastern Gate is nearing completion. This project was an initiative of the staff of the school who raised the funds that kick started the construction. The building is supposed to be a 6-storey two tower building, with an Auditorium that has since been completed. We appreciated the support of our partners such as the government of Uganda, the government of the Netherlands and USAID through the American Hospitals Abroad.

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Undergraduate Admission Lists 2026/2027

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July 3, 2026

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Students in discussion groups at Freedom Square.

The Office of Academic Registrar, Makerere University has released admission lists of candidates admitted under the Talented Sports Men & Women, Disability and District Quota Schemes with Government sponsorship 2026/27 Academic Year including appeals and remarked cases.

Other admission lists released include A-Level Applicants with Ugandan and those with Foreign Qualifications, Diploma in Performing Arts, Mature-Age Entry and Bachelor of Education (EXTERNAL Batch 2) for the Academic Year 2026/2027 under self sponsorship.

The cut-off points points can be accessed by following the link: https://mak.ac.ug/study-mak/cut-points

Kindly follow the links below to access the lists:-

Update 3rd July 2026

International & East African Applicants

Mop-up Lists

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Makerere Launches Strategic Plan 2030, Aligns with Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Agenda

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July 2, 2026

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Official launch of the Makerere University Strategic Plan 2025-2030 by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, marking a major milestone in its commitment to strengthening research, innovation, and human capital development in line with Uganda’s national development priorities, 2nd July 2026, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University has officially launched its Strategic Plan 2025-2030, marking a major milestone in its commitment to strengthening research, innovation, and human capital development in line with Uganda’s national development priorities.

The launch brought together senior government officials, university leadership, and development planners, including the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, and a representative from the National Planning Authority (NPA), alongside the University Vice Chancellor.

Hon. Henry Musasizi unveils the Makerere University Strategic Plan (2025-2030). Official launch of the Makerere University Strategic Plan 2025-2030 by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, marking a major milestone in its commitment to strengthening research, innovation, and human capital development in line with Uganda’s national development priorities, 2nd July 2026, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Hon. Henry Musasizi unveils the Makerere University Strategic Plan (2025-2030).

A Vision Anchored in National Transformation

Speaking at the launch, the Vice Chancellor underscored the University’s ambition to significantly expand graduate training and strengthen its contribution to national development. He noted that the institution is targeting a return to pre-COVID enrolment levels and a substantial increase in postgraduate numbers by 2030, with a focus on producing highly skilled graduates, innovators, and researchers.

He emphasized that the Strategic Plan positions the University as a key driver of Uganda’s transformation through knowledge generation, innovation, and entrepreneurship, aligned with national priorities.

“The staffing distribution is shown here. Under the approved establishment, we intended to have 419 Professors, but we currently have only 75. We planned for 473 Associate Professors, but currently have only 144. This clearly demonstrates that we still have considerable room for growth in strengthening our academic staff profile,” the VC said.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. Official launch of the Makerere University Strategic Plan 2025-2030 by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, marking a major milestone in its commitment to strengthening research, innovation, and human capital development in line with Uganda’s national development priorities, 2nd July 2026, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

The VC appreciated researchers and research centres, that continue to attract substantial research funding. He highlighted the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) and the Makerere University Walter Reed Project which attracted approximately US$70 million in international research funding into Uganda.

“When you combine the grants won by all our researchers through competitive international funding, the total exceeds US$200 million,” he said.

In her remarks, the Chairperson of the University Council, Dr. Lorna Magara, described the Strategic Plan as more than an institutional roadmap, calling it “a public covenant with the people of Uganda.”

She noted that the Plan marks “the launch of Makerere University’s next chapter,” adding that decisions taken over the next five years will shape not only the future of the institution, but also Uganda’s development trajectory through graduates, research, innovations, and leadership.

Dr. Lorna Magara. Official launch of the Makerere University Strategic Plan 2025-2030 by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, marking a major milestone in its commitment to strengthening research, innovation, and human capital development in line with Uganda’s national development priorities, 2nd July 2026, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Lorna Magara.

Dr. Magara emphasized Makerere’s unique national role as Uganda’s premier public university, entrusted with public resources and public confidence.

“Every investment made in Makerere must produce measurable value for the people of Uganda,” she said, underscoring the need for accountability, integrity, and impact.

Ambitious Targets for Transformation

The Council Chairperson and the Vice chancellor outlined bold performance targets under the Strategic Plan, including doubling postgraduate enrolment, increasing STEM enrolment from 30% to 55%, improving PhD completion rates from 10% to 35%, and more than doubling peer-reviewed research output, alongside a significant rise in patents and innovations.

Dr. Magara stressed that these targets are not aspirations alone but binding commitments against which institutional performance will be measured.

Hon. Henry Musasizi (3rd R) and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (2rd L) display an autographed dummy of the signed Strategic Plan as L-R: Hon. Kadondi Gracious, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Rt. Hon. Daniel Kidega, Dr. Lorna Magara, H.E. Mubiru John Bosco and Prof. Sarah Ssali witness. Official launch of the Makerere University Strategic Plan 2025-2030 by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, marking a major milestone in its commitment to strengthening research, innovation, and human capital development in line with Uganda’s national development priorities, 2nd July 2026, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Hon. Henry Musasizi (3rd R) and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (2rd L) display an autographed dummy of the signed Strategic Plan as L-R: Hon. Kadondi Gracious, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Rt. Hon. Daniel Kidega, Dr. Lorna Magara, H.E. Mubiru John Bosco and Prof. Sarah Ssali witness.

“Ambition is precisely what this moment demands. A strategic plan is not measured by the elegance of its language, but by the lives it transforms,” she said.

Call for Stronger Governance and Legal Reform

Dr. Magara also highlighted the need for reform of the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, Cap. 262, noting that the current legal framework has not kept pace with the evolving realities of university governance and innovation.

She called on Government and Parliament to support a timely review of the Act to enable universities to better optimise knowledge systems, productive assets, and innovation capacity in support of national development.

Government Endorsement and Strategic Alignment

Hon. Henry Musasizi commended the University for developing a forward-looking Strategic Plan aligned with Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV), which serves as the foundation for the country’s Tenfold Growth Strategy.

He explained that Uganda’s ambition to grow its economy from about USD 50 billion to USD 500 billion requires accelerated growth driven by productivity gains, innovation, and strong human capital development.

Hon. Henry Musasizi. Official launch of the Makerere University Strategic Plan 2025-2030 by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, marking a major milestone in its commitment to strengthening research, innovation, and human capital development in line with Uganda’s national development priorities, 2nd July 2026, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Hon. Henry Musasizi.

“Universities are central actors in national transformation. They are engines of knowledge creation, innovation, and human capital development,” he said.

The Minister stressed that government priorities include strengthening research, promoting industrialization, and ensuring that knowledge generated in universities is translated into practical solutions that support economic growth. He further highlighted the importance of accountability, efficiency, and value for money in public investments in higher education.

Universities as Drivers of the Tenfold Growth Strategy

In his presentation, the Senior Planner at the National Planning Authority, Samuel Kasule, emphasized that the Strategic Plan is firmly anchored in Uganda’s comprehensive development framework under Vision 2040 and NDP IV.

He noted that the Tenfold Growth Strategy seeks to accelerate Uganda’s economic growth into double-digit territory, enabling the country to achieve structural transformation and reach upper middle-income status.

Mr. Samuel Kasule. Official launch of the Makerere University Strategic Plan 2025-2030 by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, marking a major milestone in its commitment to strengthening research, innovation, and human capital development in line with Uganda’s national development priorities, 2nd July 2026, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Samuel Kasule.

Kasule underscored that universities play a critical role in this transformation through labour productivity, research, and innovation. He pointed out that priority sectors such as agriculture, tourism, minerals, oil and gas, and ICT depend heavily on skilled graduates and strong research ecosystems.

He also highlighted the importance of competency-based education, alignment of academic programmes with national human resource needs, and strengthening postgraduate training and research outputs.

A Shared Commitment to Transformation

Across all speeches, a strong message emerged: universities are central to Uganda’s development agenda and must evolve into research-intensive institutions that directly contribute to economic transformation.

The Strategic Plan 2025-2030 was widely commended for its focus on innovation, industry collaboration, digital transformation, and the commercialization of research outputs.

Government leaders reaffirmed continued support for higher education institutions through research funding, innovation ecosystems, and strengthened university–industry partnerships.

Conclusion

The launch of the Strategic Plan 2030 signals a renewed commitment to positioning the University as a key partner in Uganda’s development journey. With strong alignment to national priorities, the Plan is expected to accelerate research, innovation, and skills development necessary for achieving Uganda’s long-term economic ambitions. The Strategic Plan may be accessed at: https://mak.ac.ug/about/strategic-plan

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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Press Statement: Makerere University Launches Ambitious Strategic Plan 2026–2030

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July 2, 2026

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Launch of the Makerere University Strategic Plan (2025-2030), 2nd July 2026. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Visionary Blueprint to Drive Excellence, Innovation, and National Development.

Kampala, Uganda – July 2, 2026. — Makerere University today officially launched its Strategic Plan 2026–2030, outlining a bold roadmap for academic excellence, research innovation, and transformative impact on Uganda and the region. The high-profile launch event, held at Makerere University Main Campus, brought together government leaders, university stakeholders, development partners, and academia.

The Chief Guest, Hon. Henry Musasizi, Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, presided over the official launch. In his presentation, Vice Chancellor Prof. Nawangwe Barnabas highlighted the University’s past achievements and the new Plan’s strategic vision. “This Strategic Plan builds on our rich legacy while positioning Makerere University as a leader in addressing contemporary challenges through cutting-edge research, quality education, and innovation,” he stated.

The Plan was developed through an inclusive process led by the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, with input from across the University community. It aligns closely with national development priorities, as affirmed by Dr. Joseph Muvawala, Executive Director of the National Planning Authority.

University Council Chairperson Dr Lorna Magara emphasised the Council’s oversight role and commitment: “The University Council is fully committed to providing the strategic leadership and oversight necessary for the successful implementation of this Plan. It will strengthen Makerere’s role as a driver of Uganda’s socio-economic transformation and ensure we remain a beacon of excellence in higher education across Africa.”

Development partners, Vice Chancellors from other public universities, college principals, deans, professors, and student representatives attended the event, underscoring broad stakeholder support.

Key Pillars of the Strategic Plan 2026–2030 include enhancing excellence in teaching and learning, advancing research and innovation, strengthening infrastructure and sustainability, promoting inclusivity, and deepening engagement with industry and government. Following the formal proceedings, guests participated in a networking breakfast and media engagement session.

Additional Quotes:

“Makerere University remains Uganda’s flagship institution. This Strategic Plan will further harness our intellectual capital to contribute meaningfully to the National Development Plan and Vision 2040.” — Hon. Henry Musasizi, Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.

“We are excited to embark on this new strategic journey. With the support of our dedicated staff, students, alumni, and partners, we will achieve even greater heights in the next five years.” — Prof. Nawangwe Barnabas, Vice Chancellor, Makerere University

About Makerere University

Makerere University is Uganda’s oldest and largest public university, established in 1922. It is a world-class institution recognised for academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and cross-disciplinary innovation. With over 35,000 students and a strong alumni network, Makerere continues to shape leaders and solutions for Africa and beyond.

For more information, contact:

Ms. Eunice Rukundo, Deputy Chief, Public Relations

Makerere University

Email: inquiries@mak.ac.ug | Tel: +256-414-531202

Website: www.mak.ac.ug

The full Strategic Plan document may be accessed at the link below.
https://mak.ac.ug/about/strategic-plan

END

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