Makerere University has announced major developments, including automation of business operations, recruitment of Deputy Vice Chancellors, expansion of the student work scheme, and ongoing infrastructure projects.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe made the revelations during a press conference on March 4, 2025. He emphasized the university’s commitment to digital transformation, student welfare, and institutional growth.
Automation of University Operations
Makerere is implementing a digital transformation strategy under its 2020–2030 Strategic Plan to enhance efficiency and transparency. The university has developed and deployed several in-house information systems, including:
- Academic Management Information System (ACMIS) – Manages student applications, tuition payments, results, and graduation.
- Electronic Human Resource Management System (eHRMS) – Automates staff records, payroll, leave, and promotions.
- Financial Management System (Mak-FMS) – Digitizes financial transactions and approvals.
- Biometric Attendance System – Tracks staff attendance, with plans to introduce mobile-based student monitoring.
- Academic Registrar’s Electronic Records System (AR-EDRMS) – Digitizes student records and certificate verification.
- Grants Management Information System – Monitors research funding and alignment with national priorities.
- Hospital Management Information System – Automates health service operations.
“These systems have streamlined university operations, eliminated long queues, and enabled timely issuance of academic documents,” said Nawangwe.
Search for Deputy Vice Chancellors
The university has started the process of appointing a Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance & Administration) and a Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs).
The position of DVC Finance & Administration has remained vacant since 2020 due to legal disputes over previous appointments. After the recent withdrawal of court petitions, the University Council has initiated a fresh search.
For DVC Academic Affairs, the previous officeholder’s term ended in December 2023, and a court petition stalled the appraisal process. The University Senate has now set up two search committees to submit candidates for both positions within three months.
Expansion of the Student Work Scheme
To address student financial hardships, Makerere is expanding its Student Work Scheme, which provides part-time employment.
Under the scheme, 56 students have been hired as hall and office attendants, while 10 others work as sales representatives. They earn UGX 1.2 million while gaining practical experience. The university plans to expand the initiative to over 100 students across more departments.
Guild Elections Set for March 12
Makerere will hold its Students Guild Council elections on March 12, 2025. The university has urged students to participate actively in choosing their leaders.
“We appreciate the outgoing Guild President, Vincent Lubega Nsamba, for his service. His leadership strengthened student engagement and governance,” Nawangwe said.
The administration is working with the Student Electoral Commission to ensure a free, fair, and peaceful election process.
Support for Students with Disabilities
Makerere has set up a Disability Support Centre at the Frank Kalimuzo Building to provide academic and welfare services for students with impairments. The center, funded by Mastercard Foundation, offers assistive devices and specialized staff.
Proceeds from the university’s MakRun event will support the center’s programs.
Infrastructure Development
The university has completed renovations at Lumumba Hall and is currently refurbishing Mary Stuart Hall, with Complex Hall next in line.
Other key projects include:
- School of Graduate Training and Research Building – Funded by Tororo Cement with support from the First Lady, at a cost of $8 million.
- School of Public Health Building – A six-story project supported by the Ugandan and Dutch governments, USAID, and the American Hospitals Abroad program.
With ongoing improvements in automation, student welfare, and infrastructure, Makerere University aims to strengthen its position as a regional leader in higher education.
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