On 3rd March, 2026, a new chapter of academic leadership unfolded at Mbarara University of Science and Technology as Prof. Joseph Ngonzi officially stepped into his role as the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (DVC AA). The induction ceremony was not merely a formal transition of power, but a poignant homecoming for a leader whose entire professional DNA is woven into the fabric of the university marking a full-circle journey from student leadership to the heights of institutional governance.
The ceremony, guided by the Chief Human Resource Officer, Mr. Prinari Behangana, was witnessed by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, the 2nd Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance & Administration), Dr. Robert Bitariho, and members of Top Management.
In her welcoming remarks, Prof. Byakika-Kibwika grounded her address in the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA), highlighting the specific roles and obligations that define the DVC AA’s office. She noted that Prof. Ngonzi joins the executive team at a pivotal moment as MUST navigates:
- The full-scale adoption of Competency-Based Curricula.
- The rigorous implementation of new institutional policies.
- A renewed focus on accelerated academic growth.
A significant moment of the Vice Chancellor’s address was dedicated to expressing profound gratitude to the outgoing DVC AA, Prof. Nixon Kamukama. She commended him for his enviable leadership and the steadfast support he accorded the office whenever required.
“We owe a debt of gratitude to Prof. Kamukama for his dedication and the solid foundation he has built,” she noted. “His willingness to offer guidance and support at every turn has been instrumental in maintaining our academic standards.”
Turning her attention to the new appointee, she added: “Having walked into MUST as a student, served as Guild President, progressed to Head of Department, and served as Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, you truly appreciate the journey of this institution. We cannot wait to see your leadership skills in action.”
The Vice Chancellor also extended her gratitude to the search committee, represented by Dr. Martha Kyoshaba (Secretariat), for their dedication to a transparent selection process. She acknowledged the University council and the Chancellor for trusting Joseph to serve as the DVC (AA).
The ceremony reached its peak with the formal handover of the instruments of power. These were presented by Dr. Robert Bitariho, who has been serving as the Acting DVC AA in support of the Vice Chancellor.
In a deeply moving acceptance speech, Prof. Ngonzi reflected on his lifelong connection to the university. He noted that the very office he now occupies is steeped in memory; it was the same room where he once sat to receive wisdom from the founding Vice Chancellor, Prof. Frederick Kayanja.
“Seeing myself in the seat of my mentor is incredibly emotional,” Prof. Ngonzi shared. He expressed his deepest gratitude to:
- The MUST Community: For their unwavering support throughout his career.
- His Family: Specifically, his wife, whom he described as “forever supportive” and noted she had already shared strategic insights on managing the demands of the office.
- Almighty God: For guidance and for bringing his journey full circle.
The ceremony concluded with congratulatory messages from various members of top management, all of whom pledged their full cooperation and support to ensure the success of the new DVC AA’s tenure.
As Prof. Ngonzi takes the helm of academic affairs, his transition from student leader to executive leader serves as a testament to the transformative power of the institution. With a leadership team now fully constituted and aligned, the university is poised to tackle the challenges of modern higher education with precision and passion. By fostering a culture of innovation and academic integrity, the MUST community remains steadfast in its commitment to excellence.
Indeed, as we embark on this new chapter under Prof. Ngonzi’s academic stewardship, we move forward with the collective resolve that defines our identity: Succeed We Must.
