After a protracted seven-year wait, Makerere University staff are expressing relief and anticipation as they prepare to welcome a new Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration.
This key position has been vacant since 2017, following Professor Barnabas Nawangwe's appointment as Vice-Chancellor. Since then, Uganda’s premier institution has relied on a series of acting deputies to fill the void, including Professor William Bazeyo, Dr. Josephine Nabukenya, and most recently, Professor Henry Alinaitwe.
The long-anticipated appointment appears imminent, following the completion of a rigorous assessment and selection process by the University Senate's search committee.
Professor Anthony Mugisha, a distinguished Professor of Veterinary Sciences and Socio-economics, has emerged as the top candidate, surpassing three other contenders.
According to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Search Committee 2024 report submitted to the University Senate, six candidates initially applied for the position.
However, only three—Professor Henry Arinaitwe, Associate Professor James Bruce Kirenga, and Professor Anthony Mugisha—met the qualifications and proceeded to the final stages, which included face-to-face interviews and public presentations.
The report reveals that Professor Mugisha scored the highest with a composite score of 79.88%, derived from 47.64% in face-to-face interviews and 32% in public presentations.
Professor Henry Arinaitwe, the acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor, followed closely with a total score of 77.20%, comprising 45.6% from face-to-face interviews and 31.6% from public presentations.
Associate Professor James Bruce Kirenga came third with a score of 75.70%, earning 44.7% in face-to-face interviews and 31.0% in public presentations.
The search committee, consisting of Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng, Associate Professor Arthur Kajungu, Associate Professor Saudah Namyalo, Associate Professor Dorothy Kabagaju, and chaired by Associate Professor Eria Hisali, concluded that all three candidates were suitable for the position. Their findings have been presented to the University Senate for final consideration.
The appointment of a permanent Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Finance and Administration is seen as a critical step in stabilizing and advancing Makerere University's administrative and financial operations.
The position is crucial for overseeing the university’s budget, financial planning, and administrative functions, all of which are essential for the institution's growth and sustainability.In a statement, the University Senate expressed confidence in the rigorous selection process and the qualifications of the top candidates.
"We are committed to ensuring that Makerere University continues to uphold its reputation as a leading institution of higher learning in Africa. The appointment of a permanent Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration is a significant milestone in this journey," the Senate noted.
Professor Mugisha, if officially appointed, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. His background in veterinary sciences and socio-economics, combined with a proven track record in academic leadership, positions him well to tackle the financial and administrative challenges facing the university.
As Makerere University awaits the final decision, there is a palpable sense of optimism and readiness among staff and stakeholders.
The new Deputy Vice-Chancellor’s role will be pivotal in steering the university towards a future of enhanced stability, efficiency, and academic excellence.
