Busitema University, in collaboration with the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Uganda, officially inducted new members of the University Audit Committee on 14th July 2025, at a dignified handover and induction ceremony held at the University. The event was attended by both incoming and outgoing members of the Audit
Committee, members of University Management, and was graced by the Chairperson of the University Council, Prof. William Bazeyo. Among the newly inducted members is Ms. Olive Ekallam a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and Certified Public Accountant whose expertise will further strengthen the governance and accountability structures at the institution.
The highlight of the ceremony was the official handover of leadership from the outgoing Audit Committee Chairperson, Ms. Josephine Okui Ossiya, to the incoming Chairperson Ms. Olive Ekallam. This significant transition was presided over by Prof. Bazeyo (Chairperson Busitema University Council), marking a notable milestone in the University's institutional governance.
While making her farewell remarks, Ms. Ossiya expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve. She acknowledged the trust placed in her by the University Council to lead a team of distinguished professionals and reflected proudly on the achievements made during her tenure. “Together with my colleagues, we broadened the scope and relevance of audit across all aspects of the university,” she noted. “We strengthened staffing in the Internal Audit Department, advocated for the establishment of new cost centres and advanced audit awareness through visits to various campuses.” She also urged the incoming committee to diligently follow up on audit recommendations and ensure consistent accountability for University funds. Ms. Ossiya thanked the former and current Vice Chancellors for their unwavering support and commended the Council for its vision and leadership. “With pride, I believe we planted a lasting seed of accountability anchored in integrity,” she concluded.
The incoming Chairperson accepted the mantle with humility and commitment, pledging to build on the solid foundation laid by their predecessors. “I am honoured to take on this responsibility and pledge to elevate Busitema University to greater heights,” Ms. Ekallam remarked. “We are grateful to the Institute of Internal Auditors
Uganda for the valuable knowledge shared during the induction. The insights into compliance, internal control, and audit have been invaluable.” She further appreciated University Management for organizing the function and
expressed readiness to work collaboratively with stakeholders to strengthen internal governance.
In her address, the Ag. Vice Chancellor Assoc. Prof. Saphina Biira thanked the outgoing Audit Committee for their tireless efforts in enhancing the efficiency of university systems. “Your work has made a tangible difference in ensuring that the systems at Busitema University are functioning effectively,” she said. “To the incoming chairperson, I encourage you to build on the solid foundation already in place. And to management,
let us remain vigilant in ensuring compliance at all levels.”
Prof. William Bazeyo, applauded the facilitators for delivering insightful sessions during the induction process. He thanked the outgoing Chairperson and committee members for the impact they made, which ensured that the role of audit was deeply felt throughout the university. “I urge the new Chairperson and committee members to undertake campus visits across our seven campuses. This will help in understanding the diversity of our operations and maintaining the momentum established,” Prof. Bazeyo advised.
This ceremony not only marked a change in leadership but also reaffirmed Busitema University’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and strong institutional governance. The Audit Committee continues to play a critical role in upholding the values of integrity and responsibility in university operations.