Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) successfully conducted a two-day induction for the MUST Staff Tribunal at Igongo Country Hotel and Cultural Centre. The event, aimed at equipping tribunal members with essential legal knowledge and ethical decision-making skills, brought together key stakeholders, including university leadership, legal experts, and tribunal members.
Day 1: Understanding the Tribunal’s Role
The induction kicked off with an overview by Counsel Timothy N. Mugumya Esq., the University Senior Legal Officer, who emphasized that grievances within the university go beyond dismissals to include promotions and other administrative concerns. He encouraged tribunal members to remain neutral and objective when making decisions and introduced trainers from Ortus Advocates, Emily Gakiza and Emmanuel Tumuhaise, who led the sessions.
Emily Gakiza (Esq) outlined the purpose of the tribunal, discussing its establishment, composition, and importance in ensuring justice within the university. She highlighted key objectives, including:
- Enhancing tribunal members’ skills and knowledge in handling disputes.
- Developing fact-finding techniques to ensure judicious decisions.
- Understanding the legal framework governing university tribunals.
- Learning practical procedures for conducting fair hearings.
- Fostering a culture of impartiality, fairness, and ethical decision-making.
Emmanuel Tumuhaise (Esq) further elaborated on the role of tribunals, explaining that they operate outside the traditional court system but hold administrative and judicial functions vital for conflict resolution.
Swearing-in of New Tribunal Members
During the event, the members had to be sworn in before serving. This was presided over by His Worship Henry Twinomuhwezi, Assistant Registrar at Mbarara High Court. He urged the new tribunal members to take each other seriously as they assume their duties. He emphasized the need for transparency, teamwork, and taking responsibility as an entire team. “The decisions made have to be owned by the entire team; avoid discussing issues outside of the meeting, especially with the public.” His Worship guided the tribunal members through the Oath of Secrecy and the Oath of Allegiance, emphasizing the need for integrity, neutrality, and professionalism.
The following members were officially sworn in:
- Ms. Agatha Achong Catherine University Council Representative
- Dr. Emmanuel Munyarugyero Representing Academic Staff
- Ms. Hanifa Nantongo Representing Academic Staff
- Ms. Kate Imanirampa Member SAF
- Mr. Solomon Agum Member SAF
- Professor Robert K. Muriisa Representing Senate
Each member pledged to uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and transparency in their service to the University.
The Vice Chancellor congratulated the new members of the tribunal on their swearing-in, expressing her heartfelt appreciation for their commitment to serving in such an important role. She expressed confidence that their collective efforts would significantly contribute to the university’s mission.
She also acknowledged the legal officer, Mr. Mugumya Timothy, for the insightful training he had provided, noting that his expertise and guidance had equipped the new members with essential tools for their responsibilities.
Furthermore, she urged Mr. Mugumya to conduct a similar training session for the university’s top management, emphasizing the importance of a shared understanding of legal frameworks and responsibilities to foster a culture of compliance and integrity throughout the institution.
In closing, she thanked everyone for their dedication and expressed her anticipation of the positive impact of their work.
Day 2: Strengthening Institutional Governance
The second day of the induction was moderated by Angella Nakato Muyingo and Sam Kamau, who ensured an interactive and engaging session. Emily Gakiza and Emmanuel Tumuhaise both lawyers from Ortus Advocates continued their training, focusing on:
- Effective dispute resolution methods.
- Legal procedures for handling university conflicts.
- Best practices for conducting fair and transparent hearings.
Recognition and Appreciation
During the closing session, Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, the Vice-Chancellor of MUST, expressed her appreciation to all participants. She thanked Ortus Advocate for their expert legal guidance and acknowledged both former and newly sworn-in tribunal members for their service to the university.
“We acknowledge the efforts of the tribunal members in ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability within the university. I urge you to always uphold ethical leadership, impartiality, and professionalism in all proceedings,” said Prof. Byakika-Kibwika.
- Samuel B. Dhabangi Former chairperson
- Mugumya Timothy Ndiana Head Legal Office, MUST
- Emmanuel Munyarugyero Representing Academic Staff
- Edith Kusasira Public Service
- Ogal Moses Opio Representing council
- Rogers Bariyo Representing senate
- Hanifa Nantongo Representing Academic Staff
- Kate Imanirampa MUST Administrative Staff
- Paddy Beheyo Member
- Getrude Kiwanuka Representing Senate
- Ortus Advocates
Additionally, former tribunal members were awarded for their dedication and contributions to upholding justice at MUST.
The Vice Chancellor gave spacial appreciation to the organizers specifically MUST extends sincere appreciation to:
– Counsel Timothy N. Mugumuya Esq., University Senior Legal Officer, for his instrumental role in organizing and facilitating the induction.
– Ortus Advocates (Emily Gakiza & Emmanuel Tumuhaise) for their expert training and guidance.
-Angella Nakato Muyingo and Sam Kamau for their exceptional moderation of the sessions.
