New horizons for MUST: 106th Senate welcomes distinguished new Senators

26th February 2026 marked a historic milestone for Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) as the 106th Senate Sitting officially welcomed three eminent government representatives to its supreme academic governing body.

The meeting, chaired by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, was characterized by a renewed sense of purpose and ambition. In her remarks, Prof. Byakika-Kibwika expressed deep excitement at the wealth of expertise joining Senate, noting that the University is poised to harness their experience to further position MUST as a world-class institution in science, technology, and innovation.

Upon receiving their instruments of appointment, the new senators immediately assumed their seats and commenced their duties, signaling the beginning of a transformative chapter in the University’s governance and strategic direction.

Meet the New Senators

The new appointments bring a powerhouse of academic excellence, research depth, policy insight, and global networks to MUST.

1. Dr. Annettee Olivia Nakimuli Academic Giant & Maternal Health Champion
   Dr. Annettee Nakimuli Associate, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology is a renowned figure in the medical world. Currently serving as the Dean of the Makerere University School of Medicine, she is a distinguished obstetrician and gynaecologist.
   1. Expertise: A leading clinical researcher in maternal health, specifically pre-eclampsia and eclampsia among sub-Saharan African women.
   2. Global Impact: Her collaborative work with the University of Cambridge led to the discovery of a genetic locus protecting against pre-eclampsia a trait unique to African ancestry.
   3. Leadership: She serves as the President of the East, Central, and Southern Africa College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and advises the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Her presence on Senate strengthens MUST’s commitment to advancing health professions’ education, maternal and child health research and training across the region.

2. Prof. Arthur Kajungu Tugume Scientist, Visionary, & Policy Architect

An Associate Professor of Plant Pathology, Virology, and Plant Disease Management, Prof. Tugume is the Dean of the School of Biosciences at Makerere University

1. 1. Research Excellence: His work focuses on crop disease management for key staples such as banana, cassava, and sweet potato.
   2. National Leadership: He is actively engaged in advising the Government of Uganda on integrating Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) as a catalyst for national socio-economic transformation.

His expertise aligns seamlessly with MUST’s establishment of the Faculty of Agriculture, Environment and Veterinary Science and the mandate to promote agricultural innovation, food security, and translational research that responds to national priorities.

3. Dr. Edwin Mugume – The Architect of Modern Connectivity

Representing the cutting edge of technology, Dr. Edwin Mugume , Associate Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering at Makerere University.

1. 1. 1. Technical Expertise:A specialist in wireless communication, with focus areas including 5G technologies, the Internet of Things (IoT), and machine learning.
      2. Innovation: His research explores energy-efficient networks and UAV-based (drone) cellular systems, helping to ensure Africa remains at the forefront of the digital revolution.
      3. National Contribution: As a senior researcher with netLabs!UG, he has chaired several national conferences on communications in Uganda.

Dr. Mugume’s appointment strengthens MUST’s ambitions in digital innovation, smart systems, and technology-driven research ecosystems, in line with the Faculty of Computing and informatics and the Faculty of Applied Science and Technology.

A bold future for MUST

The induction of these three luminaries signifies a strategic move by MUST to bridge the gap between medicine, agriculture, and technology. Their combined local and international networks are expected to spark new research collaborations and enhance the university’s standing as a leader in science and technology.
The other new members welcomed to senate were replacing the out going staff who either retired or their team of office was over. These included:

• Mr. Ambrose Kariyo- Mugisha -Dean of students
• Dr. John Baguma Kule – Dean Faculty of Business and Management Sciences

“We are awaiting your expertise with great expectation” Prof. Byakika-Kibwika told the new members. “Together, we shall continue to build a MUST that serves the needs of our nation and the world.”;