General
Prof. Sarah Ssali Installed as First Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)
Makerere University on Monday the 29th of September installed Prof. Sarah Ssali as the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVC AA), making her only the second female to hold this prestigious position in the university’s history.
The installation ceremony, held at the Main Building, brought together top management, and close family members of Prof. Ssali to celebrate this milestone. The event marked a moment of continuity and transformation in the university’s academic leadership.
Vice Chancellor Congratulates Prof. Ssali
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, congratulated Prof. Ssali upon her appointment, describing her as a dedicated academic whose commitment to teaching, research, and innovation has left an indelible mark on Makerere.
“Your docket is handling two vital components of what we do—teaching and learning, and more importantly, research and innovation. I have no doubt that you will carry on the great work and move Makerere forward,” Prof. Nawangwe said.
He emphasized the need for universities to demonstrate accountability for the significant investment made by Ugandan taxpayers, urging the new DVC to steer efforts that help “bring our people out of poverty” through impactful research and quality education.
Prof. Ssali’s Vision
In her inaugural speech, Prof. Ssali expressed deep gratitude to God, her family, and colleagues for the support that made her academic journey possible. The installation also served as a moment of personal celebration, with Prof. Ssali introducing her family members, including Lady Justice Catherine Bamugemereire. She paid special tribute to her husband, Dr. Francis Ssali, for his unwavering support since their marriage in 1993, noting that “marriage is a good thing—it adds value to a person.”
She acknowledged the collective effort behind her successful bid for the role and emphasized that her leadership will be one of service and teamwork. “I see this role as a joint mandate rather than a personal one. The office of the DVC AA is an enabler—supporting management, faculty, and students to thrive. Collaboration, networking, and evidence-based decision making will be central to my approach,” she said.
Prof. Ssali pledged to prioritize quality assurance, improved instructional facilities, stronger academic–industry linkages, and the use of data-driven systems to guide decision-making. She also committed to ensuring that Makerere’s research outputs are taken up by government, industry, and communities to drive national transformation.
Prof. Buyinza Hands Over Office
Outgoing Acting DVC (AA), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, who has served since July 2024, officially handed over the office to Prof. Ssali. In his farewell remarks, he expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and highlighted the reforms and achievements during his tenure, including improved accreditation processes, strengthened quality assurance systems, and the advancement of digital academic management platforms.
Prof. Buyinza also paid tribute to his team and appealed for continued support towards Prof. Ssali. “I request that you accord the same support you have given me to my sister, Prof. Ssali. We share a character of bonding easily with people, and I am confident she will thrive in this office,” he noted.
A Historic Appointment
Prof. Ssali’s installation marks a historic milestone for Makerere University, being the second female to serve as the First Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) since the position was established. With her extensive background in gender studies, governance, and mentorship, she is widely expected to bring a unique perspective to academic leadership.
In her closing remarks, she anchored her commitment in faith and service: “I take on this role trusting in the Lord with all my heart, and not leaning on my own understanding, as we build for the future—for God and my country.”
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