The Mbarara University of Science and Technology community, led by senior management and the Department of the Dean of Students, gathered today to witness a significant leadership transition. After 25 years of dedicated service, the outgoing Dean of Students, Mr. Emmanuel Kyagaba, officially handed over the mantle to his successor, Mr. Ambrose Kariyo Mugisha.
The event served as both a tribute to a quarter-century of mentorship and a warm welcome to a new era of student welfare. The ceremony was presided over by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Finance & Administration), Dr. Robert Bitariho, representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, who was away on official duty.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Bitariho emphasized that the Dean of Students is the “heart” of the university experience, praising Mr. Kyagaba for his legendary composure and professional ethics.
“I know him as a very calm person, even when I am not,” noted the presiding officer. “Guiding student understanding and nurturing a responsible workplace is a central pillar of this institution, and Mr. Kyagaba has been the bedrock of that continuity.”
Dr. Bitariho tasked the new Dean with hit-the-ground-running expectations, specifically regarding MUST’s upcoming role as host of the Inter-University Games. “You have come in at a time when we are about to start the construction of sports facilities. A lot awaits you in terms of evaluating what we have, what we need to improve, and what we need to build,” Bitariho noted, challenging the new Dean to ensure the institution is ready for the task ahead.
“The Captain of a Winning Team”
In an emotional farewell speech, Mr. Kyagaba reflected on his journey since joining the Department of Student Affairs decades ago as its “second youngest and newest” member. In a touching moment, he introduced his son, Mr. Mark Kasiime, whom he referred to as the “MUST baby,” noting that Mark was a newborn when his father first reported for duty. “I ask you to look at him and be your own judges of how much time has passed,” he remarked.
Mr. Kyagaba expressed deep gratitude to his mentors and colleagues:
- F.I.B. Kayanja: His first supervisor, credited for the mentorship that sustained his long tenure.
- Celestino Obua: For his trust and guidance.
- Pauline Byakika-Kibwika: For her focus and dedicated attention to student affairs.
- The University Council and Management: For their unwavering support. He thanked the MUST community for the kind words of farewell on staff mail and in person.
“My greatest pride has been seeing students graduate on time,” Mr. Kyagaba said. “The icing on the cake is finding them in offices of service. I say with pride that my health, and that of my entire family, is now being managed by people I first met as freshers. What a joy!”
A Legacy of Teamwork and Family Bonds: Mr. Kyagaba described the department as a family where “the challenge of one is the concern of everyone.” He shared a lighthearted “long-time secret” regarding the current Senior Communications Officer, Ms. Angella Nakato Muyingo, recalling how she prepared the delicacy of grasshoppers (nsenene) for the team every November during her time in the department. “Ever since she left, we have not eaten them again!” he joked, noting that such bonds make the workplace feel like a second home.
Passing the Torch to Mr. Ambrose Kariyo Mugisha
The transition was marked by the handover of symbolic instruments of power:
- Official Documents: Representing administrative records and continuity.
- The Academic Gown: The symbol of authority and mentorship.
- Office and Car Keys: Signaling the full transfer of responsibility.
- The Mission and Vision Statements: Handed over to serve as his primary guides.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Ambrose Kariyo Mugisha expressed deep humility. He revealed he had spent recent weeks “doing his homework” by consulting with Deans from other public universities. He thanked the Appointments Board and the HR Department for a professional recruitment process.
“Every step was professionally communicated to us, from application submission to the final decision. Although we were many, information was always shared with all of us in a timely manner.”
Mr. Mugisha lauded Mr. Kyagaba for a seamless two-day “apprenticeship” that included visits to all departmental units across both campuses. “I wanted to understand the politics of managing students at MUST,” Ambrose said. “Mr. Kyagaba has helped me in all aspects. I am honored to lead this winning team.”
The Guild President, H.E. Lucky Rwabuturumba, welcomed the new Dean, noting that Mr. Mugisha shares his predecessor’s sense of humor. He commended Mr. Kyagaba for his 24/7 availability and emphasized the necessity of teamwork.
“The Guild President is not a member of Top Management where issues are first discussed, yet the Dean of Students is. However, the Guild President is a member of the Council where final decisions are made. Thus, teawork is key,” he noted.
Closing Remarks from Management
The Chief Human Resource Officer (CHRO), Mr. Prinari Behanga, congratulated Mr. Kyagaba on an honorable retirement, referring to him as “Mr. Cool and Receptive.”
“Mr. Kyagaba’s shoes are too large to fill, so we ask the MUST community to let Mr. Mugisha wear his own,” Mr. Behanga remarked. He advised the incoming Dean that the role requires immense dedication and selflessness. “You will need to attend back-to-back meetings, provide timely feedback, and occasionally spend sleepless nights but you are not alone. We work as a team.”
As a final word of advice, the CHRO cautioned Mr. Mugisha that he would be leading staff older than him and others who have served longer at MUST. He urged the new Dean to listen to their experience while ensuring he makes decisions he can personally own. The CHRO pledged his full support via email, phone, and physical presence, maintaining the collaborative culture of MUST’s Top Management.
