Elevating MUST to the global arena: The 8th Council of MUST takes the reins
In a historic convocation held at the Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), on 4th August 2023, a wave of change swept across its hallowed halls as the 8th University Council took the mantle of leadership. The air was thick with anticipation, hope, and the silent pledge of commitment to excellence as MUST witnessed the 8th Council’s the steadfast commitment to transforming the University into a globally recognized powerhouse center of scientific excellence.
Presided over and under the meticulous oversight of Her Worship Zulika Nanteza, the Deputy Registrar of Mbarara High Court, new council members were sworn in. This momentous occasion was facilitated by the combined efforts of the Legal Team of MUST, led by Counsel Mugumya Timothy Ndiana, and the Public Relations, alongside the Public Relations and International Relations Offices steered by Madam Angela Nakato and Sheila Ninye Twinamasko (Mrs) respectively, who lent their valuable support and ensured the proceedings resonated with the institution’s high standards and with seamless execution.
In a spiritually uplifting segment, Fr. Nelsons Chinedu Ekie, Chaplain of the Corpus Christi Catholic community at MUST, blessed the congregation. His words resonated with the essence of governance, emphasizing unity, dedication, transparency, and diligence. Drawing from Luke 12:41-48, he bequeathed a moral compass to the leaders, guiding them toward a future of unwavering commitment to excellence. His message? “Leadership is service, and with great power, comes even greater responsibility.”
His Worship Robert Mugabe Kakyebezi, the interim chairperson and Mayor of Mbarara, facilitated the selection of the Council Chairperson and Vice Chairperson. Leading the council’s mission, Dr. Warren Naamara was re-elected as the Chairperson with Counsel. Sarah Nyachwo Mwaka as the Vice Chairperson. Their nominations were unopposed, signifying the unanimous trust and belief of the members in their leadership capabilities
As the new 8th council members took the oath of allegiance and secrecy, a dynamic fabric of leadership emerged setting the stage for transformative leadership. This leadership not only represented a diverse array of public and government representatives but also the stalwarts from MUST’s internal management, association representatives and student’s body.
The Vanguard of the Vision:
Dr. Warren Naamara the seasoned leader from the 7th Council, continues his chairmanship journey, flanked by Vice Chairperson, Ms. Sarah Nyachwo Mwaka, having both been re-elected in their respective positions.
In his stirring acceptance speech, Dr. Warren radiated optimism. “Together, with our concerted efforts, we aim to transform MUST into a shining beacon of scientific excellence. We shall ensure that our institution not only leads in academia but also becomes a global hub for research, innovation, and solutions for the challenges of our times.” Reiterating the spiritual guidance bestowed by Fr. Nelsons Chinedu Ekie, he called for unity and diligence.
“Our vision is not just to keep MUST on the map but to redraw the map where MUST stands tall as a global center of scientific excellence,” remarked Dr. Naamara, setting the tone for his tenure.
The New Chairperson Dr. Warren Naamara receives instruments of power from the Ag. Vice Chancellor Prof. Nixon Kamukama
A Glimpse into Dr. Warren Naamara’s Accomplished Career:
Dr. Warren Naamara, the newly reinstated Chairperson, had previously led MUST’s 7th Council, inaugurated in July 2019. The University Council, the pinnacle administrative body, oversees the University’s operation, ensuring the fulfillment of its objectives and functions as prescribed by the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, 2001.
A graduate of Makerere University Medical School, Uganda, Dr. Naamara has an illustrious career in public health. He has served as the UNAIDS Country Director for Tanzania and boasts a 25-year tenure dedicated to HIV/AIDS prevention across various regions in Africa.
His legacy includes remarkable stints in key positions, such as the National AIDS Control Programme epidemiologist in Uganda, Director of the Uganda National AIDS Control Programme, World Bank’s long-term Management expert adviser for restructuring Rwanda’s health services post-war and genocide, and UNAIDS Country Coordinator in Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, and Ethiopia. His commendable academic achievements include postgraduate qualifications from the University of Toronto, the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, the University of California at San Francisco, and the University of Leicester, UK.
A New Era of Academic Excellence
As Dr. Naamara assumes the helm of the 8th Council, the collective aspiration of the council members is to usher in an era of academic excellence and scientific prowess, reflecting the mission of MUST. The council pledges to foster a culture of unity, accountability, transparency, and unwavering dedication, envisioning a promising future for MUST as a leading global center for scientific research and education.
Leaders Spectrum.
The Council comprises a dynamic blend of members from the public sector, government, MUST’s management, and student body. At its core, the University’s administrative foundation lies with its Secretary to Council and Secretariate, along with legal and audit experts. Below is the full list of members of the 8th Council.
Full List of Members of the 8th Council
- Warren Namara, the esteemed Chairperson Council and a member appointed by the Minister from the public.
- Counsel Sarah Mwaka Nyacho, the esteemed Vice Chairperson Council and Chairperson Legal Rules and Privileges Committee as well as a Council Public Representative.
- Professor Celestino Obua, the esteemed Vice Chancellor of MUST.
- Professor Nixon Kamukama, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs MUST.
- Associate Professor Charles Tushabomwe-Kazooba, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Finance and Administration.
- Steven Kisaka, the Chairperson of the Appointments Board and a member appointed by the Minister from the public.
- Engineer Denis Galabuzi Ssekandi, the Chairperson of the Estates and Works Committee and Council Public Representative.
- Agatha Catherine Achom, the Chairperson of the Finance Committee and Council Public Representative.
- Hannington Ashaba, the Chairperson of the Audit and Risk Committee and a representative of the Ministry responsible for Finance.
- Muzamiru Kwatampora, the Chairperson of the Students Welfare and Disciplinary Committee and a representative of the Ministry responsible for Higher Education.
- Clare Nduhuura, a member appointed by the Minister from the public.
- Henry Mwebesa, a Government Representative.
- Ambrose Muragira a representative of persons with disabilities, elected by National Organisations of persons with disabilities
- Miss Stella Dusabe, a representative of persons with disabilities, elected by Staff of MUST.
- His Worship the Lord Mayor Robert Mugabe Kakyebezi, a member of the District Council elected by the District Council of Mbarara City.
- Dr. Nicholas Kamara, a member of the Convocation elected by the Convocation.
- Associate Professor Joseph Ngonzi, the Dean Faculty of Medicine and a representative of MUST Senate.
- Associate Professor Dr. Grace Kagoro, a representative of MUST Senate.
- Associate Professor Dr. Robert Bitariho, a representative of MUST Academic Staff Association (MUSTASA).
- Pius Ariho, a representative of MUST Academic Staff Association (MUSTASA).
- Vincent Kwatampora, the Head of Procurement and Disposal, and a representative from the Senior Administrator’s staff Forum (SAF).
- His Excellency Mr. Mr. Bill Clinton Nasasira, the Guild President, and MUST Student representative
- Her Excellency Ms. Deborah Tusiime, the Guild Vice President, and MUST Student representative.
Inauguration choir
The Backbone of the University’s Administration.
Beyond the elected members, the University’s administrative machinery’s core remains in its Secretary to Council and University Secretary, Mr. Byaruhanga Melchoir, and the secretariat helmed by Mrs. Ahabwe Irene who oversaw the whole occasion. Complementing this team and adding depth to the Council’s functioning are the two Ex-Officio stalwarts: Mr. Mugumya Timothy Ndiana, and Mr. Geoffrey Mutebi, overseeing Legal and Audit functions at MUST respectively.
Towards A Brilliant Future:
As the curtains drew on the inauguration, one message was clear: the 8th council of MUST is not just poised for change – they’re spearheading a revolution. With a united front and a shared vision, MUST is not only set to break barriers in academia but is on course to set the global standard for scientific brilliance.
The entire MUST community now watches with bated breath and unbridled optimism, awaiting the institution’s ascendancy to global acclaim.
As the curtain fell on this monumental day, the guiding words of Fr. Ekie were a solemn reminder to all, “To whom much is given, much will be required.” The horizon for MUST, it seems, is limitless and glowing. The final rallying cry? “SUCCEED WE MUST!”
Counsel Sarah Mwaka Nyacho , Engineer Denis Galabuzi Ssekandi Her Worship Zulika Nanteza Mr. Ambrose Muragira Mrs. Agatha Catherine Achom