Busitema University Welcomes New Members of the Staff Tribunal in Swearing-In and Induction Ceremony

Joan — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 14:11:17 +0000

Busitema University Welcomes New Members of the Staff Tribunal in Swearing-In and Induction Ceremony Joan Jul 22, 2025

Busitema University proudly welcomed the newly appointed members of the Staff Tribunal in a formal swearing-in and induction ceremony held on 15th July 2025. This milestone marks a renewed commitment to strengthening Institutional governance, justice and accountability within the University.
The newly constituted Tribunal will be chaired by the distinguished Hon. Lady Justice Margaret Apiny, whose leadership promises to uphold fairness and integrity in addressing staff-related matters. The oath of office was administered by Her Worship Beatrice Stella Atingu, Registrar Special Duties at the High Court.
The induction session was expertly facilitated by Senior Counsel George Omunyokol, who guided the incoming members through the roles, expectations, and frameworks that underpin the operations of the Staff Tribunal.
Among the notable attendees were the Chancellor, Prof. Vinand Nantulya, the pioneer Chairperson of the Staff Tribunal, Hon. Retired Justice Mary Maitum, the Chairperson of the University Council, Prof. William Bazeyo, members of the University Council, , and members of University Management.
In his remarks, Prof. Vinand Nantulya expressed optimism about the University’s trajectory, stating that "Busitema is destined for greater heights." He highlighted upcoming developments, including the establishment of a teaching hospital in Mbale on land donated by Mbale City, infrastructure expansion at Namasagali Campus and the Maritime Institute, and the development of an Agricultural Science Park at Arapai Campus. The Chancellor emphasized the need for continuous orientation of board members, institutional communication, and robust governance systems.
Hon. Rtd. Justice Mary Maitum, the outgoing Chairperson, expressed her gratitude for having served as the pioneer head of the Tribunal. She voiced her confidence in the incoming leadership, noting that Busitema University is fast emerging as one of Uganda’s top institutions of higher learning. She commended the Appointments Board for their diligent handling of staff matters, which contributed to minimal cases being referred to the Tribunal. She also emphasized the need for improved counseling services and clearer communication protocols within the University.
In her inaugural remarks, Hon. Lady Justice Apiny acknowledged the immense responsibility entrusted to the Tribunal. She committed to upholding impartiality, transparency, and due process, noting the importance of collaboration with both the University Council and Appointments Board. “The Tribunal cannot work in isolation,” she said, adding that she would thoroughly prepare for each case to ensure informed and just decisions.
The Chairperson of the University Council described the day as insightful and reaffirmed the Council’s support for the Tribunal. He congratulated the new members and urged them to approach their roles with dedication and objectivity, stating, “Your appointment reflects the trust and confidence we have in your commitment to justice. The Tribunal is a key organ in ensuring staff grievances are addressed fairly.”
The Staff Tribunal plays a vital role in safeguarding fairness in staff administration by ensuring that disciplinary issues and grievances are managed transparently and in accordance with University policies. With its new leadership, Busitema University looks forward to a renewed era of integrity, accountability, and service.

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Teach for Uganda Explores Strategic Partnership with Busitema University

Joan — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 10:06:12 +0000

Teach for Uganda Explores Strategic Partnership with Busitema University Joan Jul 22, 2025

Overview

Busitema University was honoured to host a team from Teach for Uganda (TfU), under a promising initiative aimed at establishing a strategic partnership between the two institutions. The meeting was held in the Vice Chancellor’s boardroom at the Faculty of Engineering & Technology and was warmly officiated by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Paul
Waako.
Teach for Uganda (TfU) is a distinguished NGO committed to nurturing leadership and enhancing education access for children, particularly in rural areas. As part of the global network Teach for All, which spans over 60 countries, TfU has operated for nine years and implemented its impactful program across 11 districts in Uganda.
During the engagement, Ms. Charlotte Iraguha, Managing Director of Teach for Uganda, shared the organization’s mission; To develop leaders who ensure every child has access to quality education. She elaborated on the organization’s flagship Teaching Leadership Fellowship, a two-year program that trains graduates in literacy, leadership and humanitarian disciplines before deploying them as teachers in underserved government schools. To date, 183 alumni have successfully completed the fellowship.
Looking ahead, Ms. Iraguha announced TfU’s plan to expand into secondary schools in the coming year, with a focus on empowering female graduates in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) areas in which Busitema University has demonstrated exceptional strength.
The session also featured testimonials from two TfU alumni; Ms. Dinah Achola, now serving as
Marketing Coordinator, who described the program as life-changing. Deployed in a community with deep-seated biases against education, she overcame barriers through empathy and compassion, becoming a favorite among pupils. Mr. Wamala Ivan Samuel, a law graduate and TfU alumnus, also shared his transformative experience in a school with only 34 pupils and strained relationships with parents where he recounted that through community outreach and personal engagement, he helped the school grow to over 300 pupils, highlighting the lasting impact of the initiative.
In his address, Prof. Waako(Vice Chancellor Busitema University) emphasized the program’s broad mentorship value, especially as it draws on professionals from non-education backgrounds. He advised that due consideration be given to regulatory frameworks to distinguish the program from conventional teacher training. Prof Waako further revealed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) would be formalized to cement the collaboration. He also proposed the scheduling of a session in the upcoming semester, where TfU will engage with finalist students, ideal candidates for the fellowship. An internal work plan will also be developed to guide the implementation of this partnership.

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Busitema University Hosts Centenary Bank Officials to Strengthen Service Delivery and Partnership

Joan — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 09:42:13 +0000

Busitema University Hosts Centenary Bank Officials to Strengthen Service Delivery and Partnership Joan Jul 22, 2025

Overview

Busitema University hosted a high - level delegation welcomed from Centenary Bank in a courtesy call aimed at evaluating service delivery to survey and exploring potential areas of improvement in their ongoing partnership. The engagement took place in the Vice Chancellor’s boardroom. The visit, part of Centenary Bank’s “Customer Week, initiative was led by Mr. Patrick Musinguzi the Bank’s Manager for the Public Sector. The initiative was designed to gather customer feedback on the bank’s products and services, with the goal of fostering improvement and innovation.

In his welcome remarks, Prof. Paul Waako, the Vice Chancellor of Busitema, expressed appreciation for the longstanding partnership with Centenary Bank. He noted the importance of the relationship, underpinned by a current Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), and highlighted a recent visit by the Bank’s Managing Director as
a milestone in cementing institutional ties. Prof. Waako also emphasized the University’s strategic focus on infrastructural development pointing out that Busitema can only meet 10% of its infrastructural needs. He cited the
student growing population and the resulting demand for student accommodation across its campuses in Arapai, Busitema, Nagongera and Pallisa. Additionally, he proposed the development of business centers at the campus, particularly the Busitema site, to support service providers such as caterers.
In a gesture aimed at attracting private sector investors, Prof. Waako revealed that the University was willing to offer up to an acre of land on a 30 - year lease basis, after which the land would be reverted to the University. The Centenary bank team responded positively to the proposal, with further dialogue anticipated in the near future. The meeting underscored both institutions’ commitment to mutual growth and improved
service delivery for the benefit of the University community and broader public.

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Busitema University Flags off participants of 2025 Summer School in Germany

Joan — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 13:40:34 +0000

Busitema University Flags off participants of 2025 Summer School in Germany Joan Jul 17, 2025

All Campus News

Students of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Busitema University were officially flagged off to participate in the 2025 Summer School programme in Germany. The send-off ceremony took place on at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Mbale campus, where the Faculty Dean, Professor Dan Kibuule, Assoc. Professor Joseph K.B. Matovu (Head of department, Community and Public Health), Ms. Harriet Nabirye (Principal Institutional Advancement Officer) and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the team set to represent the University on the international stage.

The Summer School scheduled to run from 25th July to 14th September 2025, will be hosted by a Consortium of German Universities and is expected to attract participants from across the globe. The program focuses on academic exchange, cultural immersion, research collaboration and development of global competencies among students and early-career scholars.

Speaking during the flag-off, Professor Dan Kibuule commended the selected participants for their commitment and excellence, which earned them the opportunity to participate in the prestigious programme. “This Summer School is a platform for learning beyond the classroom. It is an opportunity to showcase the intellectual strength of Busitema University and to build networks that will benefit not only the individuals attending but also the broader University community,” said Professor Dan Kibuule.

The team comprised five students from the Faculty of Health Sciences who were selected through a competitive internal process that emphasized academic merit, leadership potential and relevance of proposed research interests to global development themes. The students committed to being good ambassadors of the institution and Uganda at large.

The Summer School initiative is supported through partnerships between Busitema University and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)

As the team departs in the coming days, expectations are high that they will return with enhanced knowledge, new perspectives, and strengthened academic ties that will benefit future cohorts and the university’s international collaboration efforts.

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Busitema University Holds Handover Ceremony for Deanship Positions at the Faculty of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences

Joan — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 11:38:49 +0000

Busitema University Holds Handover Ceremony for Deanship Positions at the Faculty of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences Joan Jul 16, 2025

News Releases

In a ceremony marked by reflection, appreciation and renewed commitment to academic leadership, Busitema University held a formal handover of Deanship positions at the Faculty of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences from Prof. Alice Nakiyemba to Dr. Sowedi Masaba. The transition symbolised not only a change in leadership but also a moment of gratitude for dedicated service and optimism for the future. Dr. Sowedi, who previously served as the faculty's Deputy Dean, now steps into the role of Dean with a wealth of institutional knowledge and experience while Dr. Kakungulu Moses has been appointed as the new Deputy Dean. The event which took place at the Faculty premises was graced by members of top management led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Paul Waako and Prof. Saphina Biira (Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs), who also presided over the ceremony.
Other senior University officials including Ms. Nambafu Rachael Wandeka (Deputy University Secretary), Dr. Lugya Fredrick Kiwuuwa (University Librarian) Dr. Muweesi Charles (Director Institutional Advancement), Mr. Erogo Wanyama (Deputy Dean of Students) Mr. Makubo Fred (Chief Internal Auditor) and staff from the Faculty of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (FNRES) were also in attendance underscoring the importance of the occasion to the wider university community.

Top management celebrates the FNRES deanship with a ceremonial cake-cutting ceremony.

The ceremony commenced with a speech from Mr. Makubo, who affirmed that a comprehensive audit had been conducted to ensure that all university assets and facilities under the faculty had been properly handed over. He also commended the outgoing Faculty Dean, Prof. Alice Nakiyemba, for presenting a detailed and transparent report on the status of the faculty's assets.
In her remarks, the outgoing Dean, Prof. Alice, expressed gratitude to the university management for entrusting her with the responsibility of leading the faculty. She highlighted notable achievements during her tenure, including the expansion of academic collaborations, growth in scholarship opportunities, and a steady increase in student enrolment in the faculty. She thanked her colleagues and staff for their unwavering support and dedication to the faculty’s mission.
On the other hand, Prof. Masaba Sowedi, who previously served as Deputy Dean, extended his appreciation to the university leadership for the trust placed in him. He pledged to work collaboratively with management, faculty members, and stakeholders to strengthen the faculty's role in driving academic excellence, research, and community engagement. He also acknowledged the foundation laid by his predecessor and expressed optimism about building on those achievements.
Delivering his closing remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Paul Waako lauded Prof. Alice for her exceptional service and welcomed Prof. Sowedi to his new role. He spoke candidly about the demands of leadership, describing it as a journey that requires patience, attentive listening, and the courage to make difficult but necessary decisions for the good of the institution. Prof. Waako encouraged all leaders to be accountable, to embrace continuous learning, and to remain committed to the university’s vision of transformative education and development.
The handover ceremony marked not only a transition of leadership but also a celebration of progress and the promise of continued growth for the Faculty of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences. With a renewed sense of purpose and unity, the faculty looks forward to a new chapter of innovation, academic achievement, and institutional development under Prof. Sowedi’s stewardship.

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MasterCard Foundation Delegation Visits to Monitor E-Learning Progress at Busitema University

Joan — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 11:12:21 +0000

MasterCard Foundation Delegation Visits to Monitor E-Learning Progress at Busitema University Joan Apr 17, 2025

News Releases

A high-level delegation from the MasterCard Foundation recently conducted a one-day monitoring visit to assess the progress of e-learning initiatives supported by the Foundation in Uganda. The visit included extensive engagement with academic leaders, staff, and students, and highlighted the significant strides made in integrating digital learning at the institution.

The delegation focused on evaluating the implementation of online courses and other digital learning tools, with an emphasis on improving accessibility, enhancing course delivery, and preparing students for the demands of the modern job market. Beneficiaries of the e-learning programs shared their experiences, underscoring the positive impact of digital education on their learning outcomes.

Prof. Paul Waako, Vice Chancellor of Busitema University, highlighted ongoing efforts to develop and implement a new online entrepreneurship course. Supported by the MasterCard Foundation, the course is designed to replace traditional entrepreneurship modules and will be reflected on student transcripts—a significant milestone in enhancing the relevance and quality of academic programs.

Prof. Waako also commended the successful adoption of e-voting during the University’s Guild elections, noting its role in promoting transparency and efficiency in student leadership processes.

Prof. Jessica Aguti, Coordinator of the Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL) program, emphasized the alignment of all e-learning initiatives with National Development Plan III (NDP III) and the preparation for NDP IV. She reported that 51 courses now incorporate online components and highlighted the increasing interest among academic staff in adopting digital teaching methods. She also stressed the importance of inclusive education, noting that online learning has greatly benefited students with disabilities.

The MasterCard Foundation team, joined by Mr. Charles Ekanya, leader of the Cyber School project, shared insights into the Foundation's broader strategic vision. Since its establishment in 2006, the Foundation has supported over 30 million youth across Africa through programs in agriculture, business, and technology. The delegation reaffirmed its commitment to reaching marginalized populations and emphasized the importance of collaboration among institutions with diverse capabilities.

A key focus of the visit was the proposed establishment of a Disability Resource Centre, following a recent University survey that identified 42 students with special needs. This initiative, strongly supported by the University Council, aims to enhance support for learners with disabilities, and the University is currently seeking development partners to advance the cause.

The visit concluded with a tour of the Online Learning Studio at Nagongera Campus, an innovative facility dedicated to producing digital content under the ODeL program.

This collaborative and forward-looking engagement is part of the MasterCard Foundation’s mission to strengthen digital education across Africa, promote inclusive learning, and build resilient higher education institutions.

As the host of this strategic visit, Busitema University reaffirmed its commitment to transforming higher education through blended learning, innovation, and partnerships that prioritize inclusivity and equal access for all learners.

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A Stakeholders' Consultative Meeting to shape the Future of ODeL

Joan — Sun, 19 Jan 2025 06:36:23 +0000

A Stakeholders' Consultative Meeting to shape the Future of ODeL Joan Jan 19, 2025

Overview

Busitema University's ODeL team recently convened a two-day stakeholder’s consultative meeting upon acquisition of a grant from Commonwealth of Learning (COL) to support the development of a comprehensive Business plan.

While officiating the meeting, Professor Saphina Biira (Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs) emphasized Busitema's commitment to a participatory approach in all its endeavours. She further noted that the ODeL program effortlessly aligns with the university's strategic plan which is further reinforced in a collection of supportive policies including the E-learning policies.

Professor Jessica Aguti and Mr. Wamakote Leonard, leaders of the ODeL programme facilitated the meeting with Dr Richard Kajumbula, a consultant who provided specialized expertise on the business plan and stimulated interactive sessions among various stakeholders in attendance.

Through this meeting, the ODeL programme took a crucial step towards its goals, leveraging collective knowledge and expertise to inform its future growth and development.

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Enhancing the Bachelors in Electrical Engineering Curiculum at Busitema University

Joan — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 19:09:43 +0000

Enhancing the Bachelors in Electrical Engineering Curiculum at Busitema University Joan Sep 26, 2024

News Releases

The faculty of Engineering at Busitema University recently convened a meeting to review the curriculum of the Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering program. This initiative aims to ensure that the curriculum remains relevant to the rapidly evolving technological landscape and adequately addresses the needs of the industry. Since its accreditation by the National Council of Higher Education five years ago, the program has sought continuous improvement, with a strong emphasis on practical empowerment for students.

Dr. Sserugunda Jonathan (head of Electrical Engineering department at Makerere University) who was the guest speaker at this meeting offered a comprehensive technical guidance to the departmental heads of Electrical Engineering at Busitema University on enhancing the curriculum of the program. His insights emphasized the importance of ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant to students as they advance in their careers. Key discussion points included the mode of delivery for the program, the incorporation of entrepreneurial skills, and ensuring the program aligns with national education standards. Additionally, the faculty explored ways to synchronize the curriculum with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while addressing this industry’s challenges.

The meeting was attended by prominent figures from the engineering department, including Dr. Daniel Otim, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology; Dr. Eryenyu Charles, Director of Quality Assurance; Dr. Idephonse Nibikora, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology; Professor Ibrahim Musenze, Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences; and Ms. Evelyn, the campus librarian, along with alumni, student leaders and students from the Engineering faculty.

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Busitema University and AKSA Group make Synergistic Advancements in Academic Infrastructure

Joan — Sun, 14 Jul 2024 12:57:03 +0000

Busitema University and AKSA Group make Synergistic Advancements in Academic Infrastructure Joan Jul 14, 2024

News Releases

Busitema University and the AKSA Group have embarked on a transformative journey aimed at enhancing academic infrastructure within the university. This initiative emanates from a Memorandum of Understanding recently signed between the two organizations, outlining AKSA's commitment to construct and upgrade facilities crucial to fostering academic excellence at the University. Among the planned projects are advanced laboratories, modern classrooms, student hostels, and staff residences. Additionally, ambitious ventures such as a teaching hospital in the Mbale campus, an agroscience park in the Soroti campus, and institutes for Maritime and Railway studies in the Namasagali campus are set to redefine educational opportunities at Busitema University.

The AKSA Group renowned for its expertise in developing infrastructure across developing and emerging markets worldwide brings to the table a wealth of experience and a dedication to executing projects that align with global standards. The collaborative effort between Busitema University and AKSA represents a strategic alliance aimed at not only modernizing the university's infrastructure but also positioning it as a hub for advanced learning and research in the region.

On Saturday 13th July, 2024, the two entities had an Infrastructural Development meeting which marked a pivotal moment in this partnership. Chaired by Professor Paul Waako, the Vice Chancellor of Busitema University, and attended by key figures including the Chancellor Professor Vinand Nantulya, Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Kamba Pakoyo, the Director of Institutional Advancement Dr. Muweesi Charles, Mr. Nurdin Samji, the CEO of AKSA group together with his AKSA team, the meeting focused on outlining the project timelines, engaging key stakeholders, and drafting comprehensive budgets for government approval. Further still, deliberations were also focused on strategizing how best to present these initiatives to government officials and secure necessary funding. Central to the discussion was the preparation of a compelling proposal to present to government and more specifically to the Ministry of Education with the aim of satisfying their requirements and convincing them of the project’s merits and facilitating its implementation. The meeting also emphasized the importance of effective communication and collaborative planning in realizing the ambitious goals set forth by both parties.

Envisioning further, Busitema University and the AKSA Group are poised to embark on a journey marked by innovation and academic advancement. Through their shared vision and strategic planning, they aim to not only enhance physical infrastructure but also empower students and researchers to excel in their respective fields. As preparations continue and engagements with stakeholders intensify, this partnership stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in driving sustainable development and educational excellence.

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Busitema University Welcomes New Members of the Staff Tribunal in Swearing-In and Induction Ceremony

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Teach for Uganda Explores Strategic Partnership with Busitema University

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Busitema University Hosts Centenary Bank Officials to Strengthen Service Delivery and Partnership

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Busitema University Flags off participants of 2025 Summer School in Germany

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Busitema University Holds Handover Ceremony for Deanship Positions at the Faculty of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences

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MasterCard Foundation Delegation Visits to Monitor E-Learning Progress at Busitema University

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A Stakeholders' Consultative Meeting to shape the Future of ODeL

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Enhancing the Bachelors in Electrical Engineering Curiculum at Busitema University

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Busitema University and AKSA Group make Synergistic Advancements in Academic Infrastructure

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