On Tuesday, 18th November 2025, the iconic Makerere University Main Hall opened its doors to a historic celebration, 60 years of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Uganda and the Commonwealth of Australia. The event, organized by the Australian Alumni Association of Uganda (A3-U) in partnership with Makerere University and the Australian High Commission, brought together diplomats, government leaders, academics, private sector actors, innovators, and alumni for a day of reflection, dialogue, and renewed commitment to partnership.
Held under the theme “Australia–Uganda at 60: A Legacy of Partnerships and a Shared Vision,” the commemorative lecture and exhibition captured the depth, transformation, and future promise of a relationship spanning six decades.
Education as the Heartbeat of AU–UG Relations
In her opening remarks, Dr. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the Makerere University Council, set the tone by honoring the enduring ties that bind the two nations. She welcomed H.E. Ms Jenny Da Rin, Australia’s High Commissioner to Uganda, and H.E. Dorothy Samali Hyuha, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Australia and a proud Makerere alumna.
Dr. Magara highlighted that no institution in Uganda better embodies the success of Australia–Uganda cooperation than Makerere University. Hundreds of Ugandans, many of whom are now leaders in academia, government, civil society, and the private sector, received an Australian education, returning home with advanced skills and global perspectives that continue to enrich national development.
She further celebrated the impact of the Australian–African Universities Network (AAUN), noting Makerere’s active role in research collaborations in public health, climate-smart agriculture, energy, business, technology, and the natural sciences. Faculty exchanges and joint projects, she emphasized, have transformed both teaching and research output at the university.
Dr. Magara recognized the Australian Alumni Association of Uganda as a powerful force sustaining these ties. “Your association,” she remarked, “is the human infrastructure that complements our institutional partnerships.”
Dr. Lorna Magara gifts H.E. Dorothy Samali Hyuha a Makerere University, centennial coffee table booklet.
The Keynote Address: Six Decades of Shared Values and Strategic Cooperation
Delivering the keynote speech, Ambassador Mull Sebujja Katende, former Uganda Ambassador to Ethiopia and the United States, offered a historical and diplomatic journey through the Uganda–Australia relationship.
He noted that Uganda and Australia’s ties were firmly cemented shortly after Uganda’s independence in 1962, rooted in their shared membership in the Commonwealth of Nations. Early cooperation took the form of educational scholarships and technical assistance, empowering Uganda’s emerging leadership and contributing to sectors such as mining and science.
Ambassador Katende also acknowledged moments of divergence, particularly around Australia’s early stance on Rhodesia and apartheid South Africa. However, transformative policy shifts under Prime Minister Gough Whitlam in the 1970s realigned Australia with African positions strengthening diplomatic trust and solidarity.
The keynote highlighted three major pillars of the bilateral relationship:
1. Formal Diplomatic Ties: Built on Commonwealth membership and early educational cooperation, these ties laid the foundation for long-term collaboration.
2. Reciprocal Diplomatic Missions: From the Australian High Commission in Nairobi and its Consulate in Kampala to the Uganda High Commission in Canberra, these missions have facilitated consular services, education, trade engagement, and people-to-people connections.
3. Political & Socio-Economic Cooperation: The Ambassador noted steady collaboration in trade (though still low-volume), development assistance, peace and security, and most prominently, education. Australia’s status as a highly developed, globally influential economy signals even greater potential for Uganda to tap into future opportunities.
He called the anniversary “a moment not only to celebrate achievements, but to set a bold agenda for the next 60 years,” urging deeper collaboration in technology transfer, capacity building, purposeful education, and stronger Africa–Australia engagement.
Ambassador Mull Sebujja Katende delivering a keynote address.
Panel Session: Shaping the Next 60 Years
A vibrant panel discussion titled “Australia–Uganda Partnerships in Education, Trade, and Innovation: The Next 60 Years” followed the keynote. The panel convened thought leaders in education, business, public policy, technology, and health. Discussions centered on, expanding educational diplomacy and scholarship opportunities, strengthening trade, particularly Uganda’s coffee and tea exports, leveraging Australian expertise in renewable energy, mining, technology, and agribusiness, enhancing research collaboration through AAUN, scaling innovation ecosystems supported by alumni and institutional partners.
This forward-looking dialogue reaffirmed that the strongest opportunities lie at the intersection of education, innovation, and enterprise, powered by networks like A3-U and the AAUN.
A group photo of the panelists from the Australia-Uganda@60 commemorative lecture.
A Culture of Connection: Networking and Exchange
The commemorative event concluded with a networking and cultural exchange session, bringing together alumni, diplomats, government officials, business leaders, students, and friends. Over refreshments, participants deepened connections, explored opportunities, and reflected on the next chapter of AU–UG collaboration.
The Australia–Uganda @60 commemorative lecture was not just a celebration of the past, it was a blueprint for the future. From the keynote’s diplomatic insights to the academic reflections and innovative exhibitions, the event reaffirmed one truth:
The partnership between Uganda and Australia is powered by people, strengthened through institutions, and destined for greater impact over the next 60 years.
Caroline Kainomugisha is the Communications Officer, Advancement Office, Makerere University.
The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites applications for admission to Graduate Programmes (Postgraduate Diplomas, Masters and Doctoral Degree Programmes) for the 2026/2027 Academic Year. Applicants should have obtained at least a first or second class degree (or its equivalent) from a Chartered University at the time of completion. Applicants should also possess a Uganda Certificate of Education (or its equivalent) and a Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (or its equivalent).
Sponsorship:
All Graduate Programmes are PRIVATELY-SPONSORED. Therefore, applicants seeking sponsorship should have their applications endorsed by their respective sponsors where applicable. Applicants should note that the various fees payable to the University indicated for the various programmes EXCLUDE functional fees, accommodation, books, research and other expenses.
Makerere University’s 76th graduation ceremony will be held from February 24th – 27th, 2026, at the Makerere University Freedom Square, starting at 8.30am. During the 76th graduation ceremony, we shall confer degrees and award certificates to 185 PhDs, 2034 Masters, 6,043 bachelors, 137 postgraduate diplomas and 33 diplomas.
I am proud to announce that in comparison to the 75th graduation, we have registered a 30% growth in graduate student output. This is a result of our strategic decision to prioritize graduate education per our research-led agenda.
I also wish to announce that the transcripts have been finalized and are ready for pick up. Today, I am handing over the ready transcripts to the College principals and can be picked up from respective Colleges even before the graduation ceremony.
Important to Note:
In preparation for the graduation ceremony, the University wishes to note the following:
Pre-graduation clearances Graduands are reminded to clear all necessary payments such as tuition and all graduation fees. It is also important to check with your College to ensure your name is on the graduation list and all mandatory clearances with university officials have been finalized. Note and internalize the graduation schedule (attached) to know which day you are graduating.
Securing the graduation gowns Graduation gowns will be issued starting from 2nd February 2026 from the University Hall (Dinning Hall), Monday to Friday, from 9am to 4pm. To collect your gown, check and ensure your name appears on the Senate Graduation list, present your student number or National ID, and proof of payment for the gown.
Security requirements
Attendance: For each day of graduation, entrance to the graduation ground will be by invitation only. Graduands will be issued with invitation cards which permits two guests per graduand. Do not come with more than two people or they will not be allowed access to the graduation venue. Graduands are encouraged to arrive to settle at the Freedom Square by 7am on graduation day to for a seamless flow of planned activities including the necessary security checks.
Prohibited items: Prohibited items include firearms, sharp instruments like mirrors and knives, alcohol, cell or batteries and chemicals, canned food and drinks, laptops, flashes and hard disks, radios including pocket radios, bottled drinks, cameras, large bags or any other heavy items.
Media: All media and journalists who wish to cover the ceremony must be pre-accredited by the Makerere University Public Relations office or they will not be allowed to access the ceremony venue. The access point for accredited media personnel will be the Senate Building.
Parking: There will be two designated parking areas; Rugby Grounds for those coming through the Eastern and Main Gate; and the second one is the Makerere University Main Grounds at Makerere College School. For VVIPs, VIPs and procession parking will be at CTF1, Directorate of Legal parking, St Francis and St Augustine parking, JICA and Senate Building.
Access Control: To ease traffic flow and management, the University has planned three access points to the graduation venue: the School of Social Sciences, Senate Building and the University Swimming Pool.
For help and inquiries
Starting February 2, 2026, the Academic Registrar ’s Office and Graduation Committee will set up an information tent outside the Senate Building to provide guidance and handle all inquiries pertaining to graduation.
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 Second Deputy Vice-Chancellor. The Second Deputy Vice Chancellor holds a pivotal role in financial governance, institutional planning, and administrative leadership.
The Second Deputy Vice-Chancellor will report to the Vice–Chancellor and shall:
Assist the Vice Chancellor in performance of his or her functions and in that regard shall oversee the finances and administration of the University;
Be responsible for the Planning and Development of the University and,
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 strategic leadership and ensure efficient and sound financial, human and fiscal resources management in the University.
6. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Provide leadership in Strategic planning and governance, leadership and administrative experience, Human resource and performance Management, Stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
Provide leadership in preparation and implementation of the University’s recurrent and capital budgets.
Monitor the development and implementation of the University’s accounting procedures, manuals and other documents relating to financial control and Management as per approved financial regulations.
Oversee income and expenditure of all income generating units of the University.
Coordinate the production of the University-wide Financial Reports by Colleges and Units.
Management of human resources in the University.
Oversee the management of University Estates and Assets.
7.CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION
Hold a PhD or any other academic doctorate.
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.
Be a Ugandan citizen within the age bracket of 40 to 65 years at the time of application.
7.1 Academic Qualifications
Earned a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate should be acceptable by Senate.
At least five years of financial or administrative leadership experience at the level of school dean/director or higher in a higher education institution, public service, or corporate institutions.
Supervised at least ten (10) postgraduate students (Master’s and Ph.D.) to completion. At least three of the students must be at the PhD level.
7.2 Strategic Planning and Governance
Experience in leading large administrative teams at the level of dean or higher, demonstrating efficiency and productivity.
Proven record in developing and executing strategic plans, aligning financial and administrative objectives with institutional goals.
Evidence of developing and implementing financial policies that have improved financial efficiency, transparency, and risk management.
Evidence of implementing organisational restructuring or process improvements to ensure operational efficiency.
Ability to develop and implement institutional policies, ensuring compliance with national higher education and financial regulations.
7.3 Leadership & Administrative Experience
Minimum 5 years of senior academic leadership in a recognized institution comparable with that of Makerere University, as accepted by Senate.
Demonstrated experience in managing budgets exceeding UGX 500,000,000=, ensuring financial sustainability and accountability.
Proven ability to mobilize resources, secure grants, and attract external funding to support institutional growth.
Experience in conducting financial forecasting, cost control measures, and investment strategies to optimize institutional resources.
Track record of leading financial audits and compliance assessments in alignment with national and international financial regulations.
Experience in handling procurement, asset management, and infrastructure development, ensuring transparency and value for money.
7.4 Human Resource and Performance Management
Track record of leading workforce planning, recruitment, and talent development strategies, ensuring a high-performance institutional culture.
Experience in implementing performance-based appraisal systems, leading to improved staff efficiency and accountability.
Proven ability to foster industrial harmony, resolving labour disputes and improving employer-employee relations.
7.5 Infrastructure Development and Resource Optimization
Experience in overseeing capital development projects, ensuring timely delivery and cost efficiency.
Track record of overseeing the maintenance and expansion of university facilities, enhancing institutional infrastructure.
Proven ability to negotiate and manage contracts for outsourced services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality standards.
7.6 Digital Transformation and ICT Integration
Experience in integrating ICT solutions in financial and administrative operations, improving service delivery and efficiency.
Evidence steering the automation of financial, procurement, and HR systems, reducing paperwork and improving real-time decision making.
Proven ability to implement cybersecurity measures that safeguard institutional financial and administrative data.
7.7 Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration
Demonstrated experience in building partnerships with government agencies, donors, private sector investors, and international organizations to enhance institutional funding.
Proven ability to engage faculty, students, and staff in financial decision-making, ensuring transparency and inclusivity.
Experience in negotiating contracts, partnerships, and collaborations that have led to financial and administrative growth.
7.8 Personal Attributes
High level of integrity, transparency, and ethical leadership, with a record of financial prudence.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, backed by evidence of successfully managing complex financial and administrative challenges.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement.
A visionary leader with the ability to drive financial sustainability. administrative efficiency, and institutional growth.
8. REMUNERATION
An attractive remuneration package that is in accordance with Makerere University terms and conditions of service.
9. TENURE
The Second 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:
A signed letter of application;
A vision statement;
Curriculum Vitae with contact details signed and dated by the applicant;
Copies of required minimum number of publications;
Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates;
Three (3) letters of recommendation;
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;
A copy of the applicant’s National Identity Card or passport;
A copy of the last clearance from the Inspector General of Government or other equivalent national body;
Referees should be advised to send confidential reference letters, addressed to the Chairperson Search Committee for the Position of Second Deputy Vice Chancellor and delivered directly to the address below by 5:00 pm on Friday 13th February, 2026;
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.
Hardcopy applications: Both confidential letters and sealed applications marked “CONFIDENTIAL: POSITION OF SECOND 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
Electronic media (e-mail) applications should have all the above documents scanned and emailed to search.dvcfa@mak.ac.ug by 5.00 pm East African Standard Time on Friday 13th February, 2026.
Please note that:
Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered.
Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.
Applicants who responded to the advertisements published on 31st December 2025 (The New Vision) and 2nd January 2026 (The Daily Monitor) do not need to re-apply.
For more Information and inquiries:
Visit our website https://mak.ac.ug/search-for-dvcs OR email us on search.dvcfa@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