Makerere University has reinstated open student guild campaigns that the authorities had suspended in the past following tragic death of a student during campaigns.
Addressing the media in the University Council Room on October 7, 2025, Vice Chancellor Prof Barnabas Nawangwe said the decision followed extensive consultations with the Students Guild leadership, and promotes values of dialogue, democracy and responsible citizenship.
Nawangwe disputed media reports that the university was running dry of professional manpower due to mass exodus. He reported that while only 18 staff members voluntarily resigned, rather than being forced, the university recruited 23 new staff and confirmed 58 staff members.
He added that many of those who left went for opportunities in the young universities in the country and industry where they continue to serve the country with expertise earned at Makerere.
The vice chancellor also reported the recent appointment of a new deputy vice chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof Sarah Ssali, who has served Makerere for two decades in various responsible positions such as director of the Centre of Excellence in African Identities, member of University Council and member of University Senate.
Nawangwe reported the university’s recent acquisition of one square mile of land in Kyankwanzi district, which will help house research laboratories, train farmers and extension staff in modern farming practices, sustainable land use, pest and disease control and agribusiness management, among other services.
The university also recently bought two diesel buses from Kiira Motors Corporation to facilitate students and staff doing field work; the company donated an electric bus to the university specifically to facilitate the movement of disabled students within the campus and to connect with the Medical School in Mulago.
The bus for the disabled will not charge any fares.
“Although the university owns four percent shares in Kiira Motors, we bought the two buses at Shs 1 billion after asking for quotations from other suppliers and following all legal procedures involving authorities such as the ministry of Finance. Some suppliers were offering old vehicles at higher prices, and above all, we felt we should prompt the principle of BUBU [Buy Uganda, Build Uganda],” Nawangwe said.
Meanwhile, Academic Registrar Prof Mukadasi Buyinza reported that with the rich experience earned through three years of an automated academic records system, a beefed-up infrastructure and a shortened clearance process that involves only the offices of the Bursar and the Library, some academic transcripts are already printed ready for the February 2026 graduation. Nawangwe also introduced the new university spokesperson, Eunice Rukundo.
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