Business & Management
CoBAMS holds Strategic Planning Retreat: Prioritization of research-driven strategies, graduate training, quality teaching and internationalization
Through its strategic plan, Makerere University commits to being a research driven institution. This presents the ten (10) colleges at Makerere University with a golden opportunity to tap into the vast knowledge and rich experience of its qualified and experienced staff to contribute to the realization of the University’s research agenda.
Consequently, the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) led by the Principal, Prof. Edward Bbaale organized a two-day strategic planning retreat bringing on board a representative sample of staff classified as the College management team to critically discuss the research direction of the college and come up with strategies aligned to the Makerere University strategic plan.
The two-day strategic planning retreat (10th to 11th April 2025) involved highly interactive sessions with seasoned facilitators namely the Principal-Prof. Edward Bbaale, the Deputy Principal-Prof. James Wokadala, the Director of Graduate Training-Dr. Julius Kikooma, the Head of Grants Administration and Management Support Unit (GAMSU)-Prof. Sylvia A.N. Nannyonga-Tamusuza and the Director of Quality Assurance-Dr. Cyprian Misinde. It was moderated by Ms. Ritah Namisango and Mr. Peter Mubiru, who are members of the CoBAMS management team.
The presentations featured the College Strategic direction, the College Quality Assurance Framework, the Strategic direction of Makerere University on graduate training, Grants Management and harnessing the power of the College and members of staff to attract and win grants. In addition, the retreat provided a forum to discuss other critical functions such as innovative teaching and learning, internationalization, community engagements, knowledge transfer partnerships and networking.
Welcoming the participants, Prof. Edward Bbaale emphasized that the strategic planning retreat provided a pivotal platform to shape the future of the college. He stated that as Makerere University implements its research-driven agenda, CoBAMS will play a central role through prioritization of research and graduate training, internationalization, and provision of innovative teaching and learning.
He informed the College management team to embrace an approach that positions the students at the centre of research and the various activities undertaken by the College.
“The best way to propel CoBAMS is by working with students. A student with a good Masters’ degree dissertation should be supported through mentorship to publish his or her work,” he said.
Strategic and research direction of the College
Prof. Bbaale guided that every member of faculty should focus on increasing graduate student enrolment and knowledge production. Referring to well researched data, Prof. Bbaale reported that graduate students account for only 12% of the enrollment. He noted that the goal was to ensure that graduate students constitute 30% of the total enrollment by 2030. He rallied members of staff to work together to increase the number of graduate students both at Masters’ and PhD levels. He implored staff to effectively supervise graduate students so that they complete on time. He encouraged staff to involve graduate students in research projects, grant writing and joint publications. He noted the need to profile and follow up the graduate students.
Convinced about the strong correlation between research output and the number of PhDs, Prof. Bbaale urged staff to increase the number of PhD students. For instance, the taught PhDs in Economics, Finance, and in Statistics will significantly contribute to increased enrollment,” he said.
“Central to this is stabilizing graduate output and ensuring consistent PhD supervision. The structured PhD by research program and the taught PhDs if managed well will significantly increase the number of graduate student enrollment,” he added.
In this regard, Prof. Bbaale congratulated the Units under the College of Business and Management Sciences namely the School of Business, the School of Economics, and the School of Statistics and Planning for coming up with the option of taught PhDs.
On the issue of timely completion of graduate programmes, he advised the faculty members to ensure that the students present vivas in January, February or March.
In addition, the crucial role of graduate coordinators and the college doctoral forum, convened by Dr. Kassim Sendawula, in nurturing a sense of community and providing support for Ph.D. students was emphasized.
Providing direction on research centres, he demystified the concept of thinking that one requires a physical building or large space to come up with a research centre. Prof. Bbaale encouraged faculty members to network and form research centres. “A centre is a team of researchers with like minds, passion and expertise in a particular area/field. For instance, Members of staff in the College of Business and Management Sciences could establish a Centre of Excellence in Tax Advisory.”
He explained the need to translate research into products that can be sold. He commended the ongoing initiatives by the College such as the Entrepreneurship Congress, and the Makerere University Innovation Pod. He called upon staff in CoBAMS to work with the Makerere University Innovation Pod, which is headed by a faculty member-Dr. Cathy Mbidde.
On the issue of internationalization, the Principal called for more collaborations with internationally recognized and reputable universities, bodies and research centres. He advised staff to actively participate in Erasmus mobility programmes and to implement collaborations that provide for staff and student exchange programmes.
In addition to acquiring degree qualifications from Makerere University, he advised the teaching staff to take a bold step and attain academic qualifications from internationally recognized institutions in other countries/continents.
“As a member of faculty, if your undergraduate degree or Masters’ was awarded by Makerere University, it is important that you secure your PhD from another internationally recognized university. This presents you with a rich and wider perspective as an academic, distinct advantage, exposure and access to other networks,” he guided.
Tackling the financial sustainability of the College, the Principal explained the need to establish special programs to operate as projects for example short courses leveraging the Council’s sharing ratio of 20:80, lobbying the University Management for more funding, mobilizing the college alumni, growing the College Endowment Fund, enhancing grant writing through GAMSU support and strengthening the College’s IRB.
Quality Assurance in teaching and learning processes
In his presentation, Dr. Cyprian Misinde focused on the standards and guidelines that should be followed by staff to safeguard the quality of processes at Makerere University.
Dr. Misinde re-affirmed the need for the CoBAMS teaching staff to scale up their research potential and outputs, actively participate in capacity building programmes, and above all, to continue to publish their research or work in internationally recognized journals.
He articulated the need to uphold the provision of high quality academic programmes through curriculum reviews, peer reviews, involvement of the private sector and industry, and following national and international accreditation procedures.
Dr. Misinde equally stressed the need for academic staff and heads of the respective departments to understand the accreditation steps and requirements and strictly adhere to the procedures. This, he added, will enable the Schools and Colleges to submit the academic programmes for accreditation to the Academic Registrar, Directorate of Quality Assurance and the University Senate within the expected timelines.
To enhance the effectiveness of instruction, he encouraged the teaching staff to adhere to fulfilling the minimum teaching load as per the University policy, reinforcing the commitment to delivering quality education.
On the management of students’ results, Dr. Misinde appealed to the teaching staff to mark the students’ scripts within the stipulated timeline. He reminded the teaching staff to adhere to the centralized marking processes at the College or School levels. He advised the College leadership to always invite the Student leaders or representatives to witness the centralized marking processes in order to build trust and transparency at all levels.
He informed participants about the independent student-staff assessment/evaluation tools that are administered by the Quality Assurance Directorate. These, Dr. Misinde clarified, present an opportunity to the students to assess their respective teachers/lecturers. He stated that these evaluations are essential for fostering educational quality and enriching the overall student experience. He disclosed that the feedback gathered from these assessments not only informs curriculum development but also identifies areas that require improvement in teaching methodologies, aligning with the university’s strategic objectives.
Graduate training at Makerere University
Building on the call to action by Prof. Edward Bbaale to the teaching staff to actively participate in critical processes aimed at increasing the number of graduate students, Dr. Julius Kikooma’s presentation centred on sensitizing staff on their obligations in the realization of that dream.
He outlined the Makerere University graduate policies, framework for structured PhD by research, graduate supervision and mentorship, digitization of the graduate training processes through the Digital Research Information Management System (RIMS), strengthening the capacity and commitment of human resources to drive the research-led agenda, elements of the Makerere University Graduate research strategy, teaching of PhD cross cutting courses, among other key factors.
Dr. Kikooma called upon Deans, Heads of Departments, Supervisors of Graduate Progammes and Registrars at CoBAMS to participate in the training on RIMS scheduled to take place on 21st April 2025.
Grants Administration and Management at Makerere University
In her presentation, Prof. Sylvia A. N. Nannyonga-Tamusuza reported that funds received through grants significantly contribute to building the research profile of the University, calling upon, Colleges to implement strategies aimed at attracting and winning research grants at the national and global levels.
She explained the need to professionally manage the research grants, requesting those entrusted to adhere to the terms and conditions specified in the guidelines or contract.
She observed that whereas it is mandatory to close out a grant/project, some entities do not, which is a great omission. She urged the faculty members and researchers to follow the guidelines stipulated during the grant application and award processes.
The Head of GAMSU emphasized the need to form research teams. “We have different abilities and skills. Through teams, we leverage our strengths. It also encompasses the multi-disciplinary approach,” she said. Underscoring the role of negotiation and interpersonal relations, she recommended training of researchers to engage with international partners.
She re-affirmed the necessity for proper documentation, transparency and accountability for funds. She reminded Principal Investigators, researchers and staff in general that research grant money is received on behalf of the institution, and not individuals. Thus, GAMSU expects to receive quarterly reports on grants. She explained that whereas some units could have designated a researcher or a member of staff to manage grants, when following up reporting and accountability for such funds, GAMSU engages the College Principal and College Bursar/Accountant.
To continue onboarding staff on grant administration and management, Prof. Nannyonga-Tamusuza revealed that GAMSU would conduct an intensive three (3) day training for Accountants, Research Assistants and Staff who handle grants at the University.
Way Forward
The College leadership team was tasked to lobby management to have an institutionalized mechanism for staff who mobilise resources for the University.
The College leadership team would schedule a specialized meeting with the University’s central management pertaining to research, funding, grant writing and execution, and graduate training among others.
Noting that members of staff play a vital role in the success of the college, the participants recommended prioritization of staff welfare focusing on health, sports, and morale.
Touched by the active participation and articulation of critical issues, the Principal committed to work with the College management team to ensure that the retreat bringing on board the College Management team is held twice a year.
Closing remarks
Prof. Wokadala commended the College management team members for participating in the retreat. “The retreat is one of the vehicles of creating a bond as the College management team. I am glad that we have discussed a number of critical issues that align with the strategic direction of the University,” said the Deputy Principal.
Prof. Bbaale thanked the organizing team and participants, urging them to reflect on the discussions and implement agreed-upon actions to improve the college for the benefit of its stakeholders, including students and the broader community. He also pointed out the need for the next retreat to focus on aligning the College’s strategy with the National Development Plan 4 (NDP4), ensuring its relevance and contribution to national development goals.
Business & Management
Makerere University launches two taught PhD Programmes in Management, Accounting and Finance
“New doctoral students urged to pursue research that delivers solutions to Uganda’s socio-economic challenges.”
Makerere University has launched two new taught Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programmes namely: The PhD in Management (by coursework) and the PhD in Accounting and Finance (by coursework).
The programmes, launched on 4th August 2026, under the School of Business at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), are among the first taught PhD programmes in the two disciplines in Uganda.
The launch was presided over by Makerere University Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, during a three-day orientation programme for the inaugural PhD students running from 4th to 6th August 2026.
Prof. Ssali challenged the new scholars to pursue evidence-based research addressing pressing challenges facing Uganda and the wider world.
“Choosing to pursue a PhD is not an ordinary decision. It is a commitment to becoming part of an institution with a rich history of research, innovation and knowledge creation,” Prof. Ssali said.
She told the students that the purpose of doctoral training should go beyond acquiring academic qualifications, urging them to focus on solving real-world problems.
“A PhD should prepare you to solve problems. You should ask yourselves: ‘What problem am I trying to solve?’ Research should not simply produce another thesis that sits on a shelf in the library. It should generate knowledge, products, services, policies and innovations that improve people’s lives,” she said.
Prof. Ssali explained that research outputs should not only be physical products, but could also include frameworks, management systems, policies and models that transform society.
“For those in the service disciplines, your product could be a framework, a model, a policy, a management system or a new way of delivering services that changes how society functions. That is why we do research,” she said.
She urged the scholars to remain committed throughout their doctoral journey, noting that persistence and discipline are critical to completing a PhD.
“A PhD requires commitment. It requires discipline. It requires sacrifice. Success in a PhD is determined by persistence,” Prof. Ssali said.
She encouraged students to embrace critical thinking and challenge existing ideas through evidence-based inquiry.
Prof. Ssali implored the scholars to focus their research on areas that can contribute to economic transformation, including agriculture, manufacturing, taxation, supply chains, governance, finance, climate change and technology.
“Uganda faces many challenges, but every challenge is also an opportunity for research. Research should not stop at identifying problems. It should propose practical, implementable solutions,” she said.
Makerere positions graduate training at centre of research agenda
The Principal of CoBAMS, Prof. Edward Bbaale, described the launch of the programmes as a major milestone in Makerere University’s agenda to strengthen its position as a research-intensive institution.
Prof. Bbaale said the PhD programmes represent a strategic investment in developing researchers, innovators and academic leaders.
“Today’s occasion is very significant because it marks the launch of the taught Doctor of Philosophy in Management and the Doctor of Philosophy in Accounting and Finance programmes,” he said.
“These are among the first taught PhD programmes in these disciplines in Uganda, and we are very proud of this achievement.”
He commended the School of Business leadership and faculty for developing the programmes, acknowledging that establishing doctoral programmes requires commitment, teamwork and dedication to academic excellence.
He observed that the programmes align with Makerere’s strategic goal of becoming a research-led university.
“Graduate training must be at the centre of that transformation. Events like this one—the admission and orientation of PhD students—are exactly the kinds of activities that define a research-intensive university,” he said.
Prof. Bbaale encouraged the first cohort students to publish their research in reputable journals and complete their studies within the required period.
“Complete your coursework successfully. Progress through your research diligently. Graduate within the required period. Publish your work in reputable, high-impact journals. Your success will create a strong foundation upon which future cohorts will build,” Prof. Bbaale said.
He guided that doctoral research should provide evidence to guide national decision-making.
“There is a great demand for evidence-based policy advice in Uganda. Government needs researchers who can provide evidence, not simply opinions,” he said. “Your research should generate evidence upon which decisions can be made.”
School of Business welcomes pioneer cohort
The Dean of the School of Business, Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng, welcomed the students and described the programmes as part of the school’s continued growth in graduate training.
“We are delighted to welcome you as you begin this journey with us. We hope that you will stay with us throughout the next three years of your PhD studies,” Assoc. Prof. Akileng said.
He asserted that the doctoral journey would be demanding, but assured students of support from the faculty.
“The programme is demanding, and the research component will be very intensive. Our hope is that we shall walk this journey together and, three years from now, celebrate your graduation as one cohort,” he said.
He highlighted that a PhD is about knowledge creation rather than simply earning a title.
“A PhD is not about being called ‘Doctor.’ It is about becoming a contributor to knowledge. It is about transforming yourself. It is about solving problems. It is about making an impact,” Assoc. Prof. Akileng said.
Assoc. Prof. Akileng advised students to build strong relationships with supervisors while taking responsibility for their own research.
Building research networks
Dr Caroline Twongirwe, Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Accounting and Finance at CoBAMS, urged the new scholars to begin developing research networks early in their PhD journey.
She cautioned students against focusing only on coursework while postponing research preparation.
“If we spend a whole year focusing only on coursework and then begin thinking about research later, the target of completing within three years may not be achievable,” Dr Twongirwe said.
She said collaboration is essential for producing quality research and accessing international opportunities.
“For us to produce quality research, generate new ideas and contribute to knowledge, we need collaboration,” she said.
Dr Twongirwe explained that research networks can provide mentorship, expertise, funding opportunities and greater visibility for scholars.
“Your networking must be intentional. Identify people with whom you share common interests and who can help you move forward in your research journey,” she said.
She encouraged students to attend seminars, conferences and engage with researchers in their areas of interest.
“Research networks introduce you to mentorship and guidance, access to expertise, collaboration opportunities, funding opportunities and greater visibility for your research,” she said.
Academic regulations and research tracking
Dr Alfred Tingo from Makerere University’s Directorate of Graduate Training urged the new PhD students to understand university regulations, complete registration requirements and remain engaged throughout their studies. He called upon the students to maintain communication with their supervisors and university structures.
Dr Tingo highlighted the importance of the university’s Research Information Management System (RIMS) in monitoring students’ progress.
“RIMS helps us track your research progress. Your research topic, proposal development, approvals and supervisor interactions are captured in the system,” he said.
The new PhD programmes are expected to strengthen Makerere University’s contribution to research, innovation and policy development by producing scholars capable of generating knowledge for Uganda, Africa and the global community.
Business & Management
CoBAMS 2026 Orientation kicks off: Mak DVC Academic Affairs underscores excellence, networks, integrity and values
By Ritah Namisango and Monica Meeme
Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) kicked off its four-day orientation programme (4th to 7th August 2026) aimed at equipping first-year students with the knowledge required to smoothly transition into university life.
The programme focuses on familiarizing students with the College’s teaching and learning environment, the academic calendar, university policies and procedures, library and ICT services, scholarship opportunities, leadership platforms and student support services.
Organized by the Office of the Principal, in collaboration with the College Registrar, College Communication Office, and the Student leaders, the first day of the CoBAMS Orientation was a great convening with over 800 students who filled Makerere University Central Teaching Facility to the brim.
Day one (4th August 2026) presented a golden opportunity to the first year students to interact with Prof. Sarah Ssali, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) at Makerere University. Introduced to the audience by Prof. Edward Bbaale-College Principal, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) delivered a powerful speech filled with words of wisdom, inspiration, and guidance to the students.
The students listened to presentations from the following university officials: Prof. Edward Bbaale-College Principal, Associate Professor James Wokadala-Deputy Principal, Ms Stella Butamanya-Acting College Registrar, Ms Sylvia Martha Munafu-College Librarian, Ms Catherine Tumusiime-IT Specialist, Ms. Evelyn Kharono-Counselling Psychologist at the Counselling and Guidance Centre, Mr. Peter Mubiru-College Bursar, Mr. Blaise Turyasingura from the Makerere University Revenue Office, Ms. Ritah Namisango-Communication Office, Ms Claire Nakaseeta, and Ms Moreen Orikiriza.
Blended with the peer to peer engagement from the student leaders, the first day of the CoBAMS Orientation featured presentations on Guidance and Counselling, Life at Campus, Understanding the academic calendar, Makerere University Tuition Policy, Meeting financial obligations within the stipulated deadlines, Information Technology (IT) Services, and Library Resources.
CoBAMS Reaffirms Commitment to Student Success
Welcoming the first-year students, the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Prof. Edward Bbaale, highlighted the College’s commitment to providing students with a supportive and enriching learning environment through its three schools namely the School of Economics, the School of Business, and the School of Statistics and Planning.
“The College’s support extends beyond academics to include mentorship, counselling, and other student support services aimed at promoting holistic growth and success,” he emphasized.
The Principal encouraged the new students to take full advantage of these opportunities as they transition into university life. He affirmed the College’s commitment to equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and support necessary for academic achievement, personal development, and future professional success.
Students urged to pursue Excellence and Integrity
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Prof. Sarah Ssali congratulated the first-year students upon joining Makerere University, and encouraged them to embrace the transformative journey of university education.
Prof. Ssali emphasized that students are the University’s most important stakeholders, noting that every academic programme, service, and institutional activity is designed to support their success.
“Recognize your value within the University community and actively participate in orientation activities and academic programmes, develop into independent thinkers, innovators, and future leaders capable of addressing national and global challenges,” she stated.
Highlighting the significance of business and management education, Prof. Ssali noted that the disciplines equip learners with the knowledge and skills to understand economic systems, create value, lead organizations, and contribute to sustainable development.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) reminded students that university life demands responsibility, discipline, and personal accountability. She urged them to prioritize attending lectures, utilizing library resources, participating in discussions, and making productive use of the opportunities available at the University.
Prof. Ssali called upon the students to appreciate the sacrifices made by parents, guardians, taxpayers, and sponsors who have invested in their education by using their time and resources wisely. She advised students to uphold integrity, avoid academic misconduct, and strive to build a positive legacy throughout their time at Makerere University.
She emphasized the importance of making informed personal decisions, maintaining strong professional values, and cultivating networks that would support both their academic and career aspirations. She reaffirmed her commitment to supporting students throughout their academic journey and challenged them to pursue excellence, leadership, and innovation.
University life, Academic Excellence and Discipline
The CoBAMS Deputy Principal, Associate Professor James Wokadala, encouraged the students to embrace university life as an opportunity for academic excellence, personal growth, leadership development, and professional preparation.
He emphasized that university education extends beyond obtaining a degree, urging students to remain committed to learning, make productive use of their time, and actively participate in academic and co-curricular activities.
To attain academic excellence, the Deputy Principal advised students to complete their online course registration promptly, familiarize themselves with the university environment and attend lectures regularly. “Maintaining academic integrity by upholding high standards of discipline, professionalism, and respect for university staff and property,” he stressed.
He reaffirmed the College’s commitment to supporting students throughout their academic journey, assuring them that the doors of the College administration remain open for guidance and assistance.
Prioritizing Mental Health
Commencing the presentation on “Guidance and Counselling: Life at Campus,” Ms. Evelyn Kharono, highlighted the major adjustments that first-year students face, including managing their own time, finances, academic workload, and social life.
“Develop discipline, plan your schedules carefully, and take responsibility for your academic progress, noting that university life requires greater independence than secondary school,” she advised.
Underscoring the importance of mental health, Ms. Kharono encouraged students to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating balanced meals, exercising regularly, and managing the use of smartphones and social media to avoid distractions that could affect their academic performance.
Guidelines on Tuition Payment Procedures
Presenting the “Makerere University Tuition Policy,” the College Bursar, Mr. Peter Mubiru, emphasized the importance of using the official payment systems through the University portal and generating Payment Registration Numbers (PRNs) before making any payments.
Mr. Mubiru encouraged students to pay their tuition within the stipulated time to avoid inconveniences during the examination period.
Student Enrolment and Registration
Building on to the presentation on “Makerere University Tuition Policy,” Mr. Blaise Turyasingura from the Makerere University Revenue Office underscored the importance of understanding Makerere University’s enrolment, registration, and fee payment procedures, emphasizing that timely compliance with these processes is essential for a successful academic journey.
He explained that enrolment confirms a student’s intention to study at the University, while registration enables students to select and officially register the course units they will undertake during the semester.
He urged students to use the portal to generate Payment Registration Numbers (PRNs) before making any payments.
Mr. Turyasingura advised students to be vigilant against fraudulent investment schemes and unrealistic business opportunities that promise unusually high financial returns, urging them to exercise sound financial judgment and safeguard their education funds.
Tapping into Orientation activities
Ms. Stella Butamanya, Registrar of the School of Statistics and Planning under CoBAMS, implored the students to participate in the various orientation activities lined up during the course of the week.
She reminded students to work closely with their elected leaders, the Mentor Support Team (MST), and the orientation staff stationed at various tables, as they are available to offer assistance and ensure a smooth transition into university life.
Utilization of Library Resources
Briefing students on the College Library Resources, Ms. Sylvia Martha Munafu called upon students to utilize the library throughout their university education for coursework, research, revision, and independent learning.
“Make full use of both the physical and digital library resources, including books, journals, databases, and other online learning materials,” she advised.
Access to Digital Services
Ms. Catherine Tumusiime from the I.T. Department encouraged the first year students to utilize the ICT resources on the official YouTube channel @DICTSMakerere.
Key highlight
On Day Two (5thAugust 2026), the orientation programme will feature presentations on students’ responsibilities at Makerere University, campus security, health and wellness, digital services, the Gender Mainstreaming Programme, and other student support initiatives.
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