Prof. Nixon Kamukama hands over the office of Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)
30th January 2026, marked a historical smooth leadership transition at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) as Prof. Nixon Kamukama handed over the office of Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs after ten years of dedicated and excellent service. The ceremony was held at the MUST City Campus officiated by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika in the company of the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Assoc. Prof. Robert Bitariho; the Chief Human Resources Officer, Mr. Prinari Behangana; the University Secretary, Mr. Vincent Kwatampora Kansiime; the Chief Internal Auditor, Mr. Geoffrey Mutebi; the Deputy Academic Registrar, Dr. Dickson Kalungi; the Legal Clerk, Mr. Ivan Muhebwa; and the International Relations Officer, Ms. Sheila Niinye Twinamatsiko.
Appreciation from the Vice Chancellor
Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor commended Prof. Kamukama for his remarkable contribution to the University’s academic growth and excellence. “I sincerely appreciate the tremendous role you have played in strengthening the academic function of this University. Your leadership has greatly enhanced quality assurance, expanded and accredited academic programmes, and strengthened postgraduate training and research,” Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika noted.
She further highlighted his commitment to mentoring both faculty and students and applauded his active participation in teaching and research, as well as the central role he played in the growth of MUST. She noted that under Prof. Kamukama’s stewardship, his leadership has been characterised by professionalism, accountability, and academic excellence. She also acknowledged his close engagement with students, often offering wise counsel and calming challenges when they arose. “Your legacy is evident in many students who have passed through the gates of MUST, whose careers you shaped through mentorship, guidance, and encouragement. I thank you for your principled leadership; your wisdom, calmness, and integrity have left an indelible mark on MUST,” the Vice Chancellor said.
Reflections from Prof. Kamukama
In his remarks, Prof. Kamukama reflected on his tenure since 2016 as the University’s first Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, thanking God for enabling him to end his service well. He emphasised that MUST is recognised for its academic excellence and the effective delivery of the academic function, which is a critical engine of the University. He expressed deep appreciation for the teamwork and support he received, particularly from the Vice Chancellor, whose leadership and motivation contributed significantly to their achievements.
Prof. Kamukama also credited the Academic Registrar’s Unit, led by Dr. Martha Kyoshaba Twinamasiko, for the successes they achieved together over the past decade, navigating challenges, implementing reforms, and making significant progress. He encouraged staff to build strong teams and emphasised the importance of professional networks, urging MUST to continue strengthening them.
Key achievements during his tenure
Among Prof. Kamukama’s notable accomplishments were:
- Growth of student enrollment from 3,600 in 2016 to 6,697 in 2026
- Establishment of the Centre for Innovations and Technology Transfer
- Formation of MUST Holdings Company Limited
- Creation of the Academic Affairs Management Committee
- Establishment of the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training
- Creation of the Internal University Policy Committee, which has overseen the development of 28 academic and administrative policies
- Introduction of e-learning platforms and blended learning approaches
- Facilitating the development and management of the Student Information Management System (SIMS)
- Implementation of competence-based learning under the UNESCO–China Funds-in-Trust Project, which trained 173 academic staff and all Heads of Department in institutional pedagogy and competence-based education, respectively
- Establishment of the digital studio to support online teaching and learning
- Lobbying for the Kihumuro water project in the Ministry of Water and Environment
- Operationalising the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology in Kihumuro Campus
Handover to the Acting DVC–AA
The office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs was formally handed over to Assoc. Prof. Robert Bitariho as the search for a substantive office bearer continues. He officially handed over the academic gown, office keys, car keys, a stamp and a handover report.
Reflecting on their long professional engagement, Assoc. Prof. Bitariho thanked Prof. Kamukama for his policy-driven leadership and focus on the student welfare. He graciously accepted the responsibility and pledged to build on the strong foundation laid.
Appreciation from University Officials
The University Secretary, Mr. Vincent Kwatampora Kansiime, praised Prof. Kamukama for his principled leadership, noting that he respected systems, adhered to policies, and allowed institutional processes to function without interference. He commended his commitment to teamwork and his dedication to the university. Representing the Academic Registrar, Dr. Dickson Kalungi, the Deputy Academic Registrar, expressed gratitude for Prof. Kamukama’s mentorship and open-door policy. He recalled the famous saying of Prof. Kamukama: “If you cannot serve the students, pack your bags and go.” Dr. Kalungi noted that students are the University’s primary clients and praised Prof. Kamukama for consistently putting the interests of the students first.
Members present wished Prof. Nixon Kamukama a fulfilling retirement marked by good health and happiness and welcomed him to continue supporting Mbarara University of Science and Technology in mentorship and advisory roles.
This event was concluded with a get-together farewell party to Prof. Kamukama, where other salutations and moments of reflection were exhibited.
