Muni University has officially bid farewell to its University Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Natal Banya, following a formal handover ceremony held on June 12, 2025.
Mr. Banya tendered his resignation to pursue a political career and confirmed his intent to contest for the Koboko County Constituency parliamentary seat in the 2026–2031 elections under the NRM party ticket.
During the ceremony, Mr. Banya handed over all university property, including vehicle keys, a laptop, and his staff identification card, to Vice Chancellor Associate Prof. Simon Katrini Anguma, marking the end of a pivotal chapter in the institution’s administration.
“Leaving a good job is not easy, but when God calls you to serve at another level, you must obey,” Banya said, expressing appreciation to the university community for their support throughout his tenure. “If I ever fell short, it was never personal—only in the line of duty for the institution.”
Appointed in 2021, Banya joined Muni University at a critical time in its development. He served as University Secretary and Accounting Officer, leading major improvements in policy, governance, infrastructure, and financial accountability.
Under his leadership, the university saw a steady rise in student enrollment and achieved key milestones that positioned it as a regional center of excellence in Uganda’s West Nile sub-region.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Anguma praised Banya’s contributions, describing him as a “pillar in Muni University’s administration” and commending his “transformative leadership, integrity, and dedication to public service.”
“Mr. Banya has been more than an administrator. He has been a steward of Muni’s values and vision,” said Prof. Anguma. “His legacy will shape how we think about leadership, service, and institutional transformation.”
The handover ceremony was both symbolic and ceremonial, reflecting Muni’s commitment to transparency, ethical leadership, and nurturing responsible citizens. Banya’s decision to enter politics, according to university officials, exemplifies the institution’s mission of producing leaders who drive national development beyond academic circles.
His declaration to contest in the upcoming NRM primaries in Koboko County is already drawing attention, especially given his track record in governance and service delivery. As he transitions from university leadership to political engagement, Banya carries with him the values and vision of Muni University.
The university community, while emotional, expressed confidence that Banya’s leadership ethos will resonate in his next chapter. “He leaves not just as a former Secretary but as a continuing ambassador of Muni University’s ideals,” said Prof. Anguma.
As Muni prepares to usher in new leadership, it does so with the assurance that the foundation laid by Banya will inspire the next generation of university administrators and civic leaders.
