On September 6, 2024, the Directorate of Research and Graduate Studies (DRGT) held an orientation for the incoming postgraduate students. The event, which took place at the DRGT grounds, marked the beginning of a new academic journey for these aspiring scholars.
In his welcoming remarks, Associate Professor Vincent Batwala, the Director of Research and Graduate Studies, urged the postgraduate students to complete their programmes within the stipulated time frame. He emphasized the importance of informing the directorate through their respective deans about any urgent needs or concerns they may encounter during their stay at MUST. Batwala encouraged the students to create university email addresses and use them for all academic and professional communications.
Representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and her department, Dr. Martha Kyoshaba Twinamasiko, began her address by seeking feedback on the registration process. The overwhelming majority of students reported a positive experience, with one student sharing, “I arrived after 5:00 PM, but I was welcomed warmly. I imagine those who came earlier had an even better reception.” Dr. Martha welcomed the postgraduate students and introduced the Registrar of the Graduate School Mr. Ismail Bahati, advising them to consult with both him and the director before approaching her office.
Referring to the students as colleagues, Dr. Kyoshaba highlighted MUST’s open-door policy and encouraged the postgraduates to reach out to her personally during working hours. She shared her contact information and urged them to text her in case of any urgent academic needs. Dr. Kyoshaba also emphasized the importance of staying informed, particularly by reading the university website for academic updates. She reminded those sponsored by external organizations to provide financial breakdowns to their sponsors, emphasizing the importance of organization and transparency. Additionally, she outlined the maximum duration of study at MUST, allowing for two extra years in case of unforeseen challenges or opportunities.
Shiela Ninnye Olivia Twinamasiko (Mrs), the International Relations Officer, encouraged the students to network both nationally and internationally. She explained the functions of her office and emphasized its role in assisting both domestic and international students, including visa applications for exchange programs. Twinamasiko also highlighted the importance of appreciating cultural diversity.
Mr. Innocent Muhereza, the head of security, advised the postgraduate students to be cautious and not trust strangers. He urged them to be security-conscious and aware of potential scams. Muhereza discussed issues such as cyber crime, theft, and procedures to follow in case of lost property.
He also introduced ASP. Andrew Betunga , the community liaison officer Mbarara Central police station and a fellow postgraduate student, who offered his security services to the students.
The orientation concluded with a question-and-answer session, where students raised various concerns, including slow internet speeds, limited information about access points, the need for campus tours, challenges with re-registration for students with dead years, discrepancies between tuition fees listed on admission letters and the university system, and lack of access to MUST emails.Making publications while at MUST and using MUST as my affiliation, and  access to other online resources e.g. research journals and articles using the university email. Professor Batwala answered the first question but missed the second one.
The Academic Registrar and the director addressed these concerns, providing explanations and solutions.
The orientation was a resounding success, with a large turnout of students. The event provided valuable information and guidance to the new postgraduate students, setting the pace for a successful academic journey at MUST.
