Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) held a historic ceremony on Saturday, October 25, 2025, to install Professor Jack H. Pen-Mogi Nyeko as its 5th Chancellor, marking a new chapter in the university’s leadership and governance. The installation ceremony took place at the Kihumuro Main Campus ahead of the university’s 32nd Graduation Ceremony, attracting dignitaries, government representatives, university staff, and students.
The event was presided over by Hon. Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jim Muhwezi, the Minister of Security, who represented H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of the Republic of Uganda and Visitor to Public Universities. In his address, Hon. Muhwezi congratulated Prof. Pen-Mogi on his appointment, describing him as “a man of proven leadership, academic distinction, and national service.” He officially declared, “I hereby install Professor Jack H. Pen-Mogi Nyeko as the duly appointed 5th Chancellor of Mbarara University of Science and Technology.”
The installation was marked by a rich academic procession, national and East African anthems led by the Uganda Police Band, and a solemn prayer of dedication. The Vice Chancellor, Professor Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, formally constituted the congregation into an assembly for the installation, symbolizing the university’s unity and collective commitment to progress.
The Chairperson of the University Council, Dr. Warren Naamara, read the Instrument of Appointment issued by the President on 17 October 2025, and made a citation of the new Chancellor before presenting him to the Visitor for enrobing. In a symbolic gesture, Prof. Byakika assisted the Minister in enrobing the Chancellor, followed by the handing over of the university Mace, Key, Mission and Vision documents, and Flags, signifying the transfer of authority and responsibility.
Following the declaration, Hon. Justice Allan Paul Nshimye administered the Oaths of Office to the new Chancellor, after which Prof. Pen-Mogi delivered his acceptance speech and officially constituted the congregation into an assembly of Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
In his acceptance remarks, Prof. Pen-Mogi expressed deep gratitude to the President, the University Council, and the entire MUST community for the trust placed in him. “I am truly honored to join this great university as Chancellor. MUST has built a reputation for excellence in science, technology, and innovation. I pledge to work with the leadership and stakeholders to further advance this institution’s contribution to Uganda’s transformation,” he stated.
Prof. Pen-Mogi succeeds Professor Charles Mark Lwanga Olweny, who served as Chancellor of MUST from 2017 to 2025. In her remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika hailed the outgoing Chancellor for his dedication and mentorship. “Prof. Olweny’s legacy of integrity, wisdom, and humility will continue to inspire us. We welcome Prof. Pen-Mogi with open arms and look forward to working with him to sustain our trajectory of excellence,” she said.
The installation of Prof. Pen-Mogi signifies continuity in the university’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community transformation. His wealth of experience in higher education management and national development positions him to steer MUST toward greater heights in research, innovation, and global competitiveness.
As he took his seat and formally constituted the congregation, Prof. Pen-Mogi’s words resonated with optimism and purpose: “Together, we shall uphold the values of this great institution: integrity, service, and excellence as we prepare future generations to transform our society. I pledge to serve faithfully, to guide, and to inspire.”
The Mbarara University community and its partners warmly welcomed the new Chancellor, marking the day as both a celebration of leadership renewal and a reaffirmation of MUST’s vision to be a center of academic and scientific excellence for societal transformation.
Who is Prof. Jack H. Pen-Mogi Nyeko?
Professor Jack H. Pen-Mogi Nyeko, aged 77, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He is a distinguished veterinarian, academic, and administrator whose career spans over four decades. He holds a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (Makerere University, 1975), a Master of Science (University of Nairobi, 1981), and a PhD in Molecular Parasitology (Makerere University, 1988).
Prof. Pen-Mogi is best known as the founding Vice Chancellor of Gulu University, where he served from 2002 to 2017, playing a pioneering role in establishing one of Uganda’s key public universities. His service record also includes being a Member of Parliament for Kilak County, Chairperson of the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE), Chairman of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), and Member of the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB).
Beyond academia, Prof. Pen-Mogi is recognized for his national service, having served as a delegate in the 1994 Constituent Assembly that framed Uganda’s 1995 Constitution. He is also a Fellow of the Uganda National Academy of Sciences.
