Kampala:
Speaker Anita Among has directed the Ministry of Education and Sports to provide an explanation as to why Makerere University has been without a substantive Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration for the past eight years. This demand came after concerns were raised by Eddie Kwizera, the Member of Parliament for Bukimbiri County, during a plenary sitting on February 20, 2025. Kwizera called on Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja to address the ongoing staffing issues at Makerere University.
In her response, Speaker Among also pointed out that Makerere University Business School (MUBS) is facing similar leadership challenges, operating without a Deputy Principal.
Kwizera expressed frustration, stating, “The Parliament allocates funds for the filling of all key positions at Makerere University, but for eight years, they’ve been without a Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance. To make matters worse, the Chief Registrar is now fulfilling dual roles, acting as Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academics. Why has this position remained vacant for so long?”
In response to the concerns, Peter Ogwang, the Minister of State for Sports, assured the parliament that he would provide a detailed statement addressing the staffing crisis at both Makerere University and MUBS. “I will bring a comprehensive report to address the issues raised, including those at MUBS,” Ogwang said.
This exchange comes amidst growing scrutiny of Makerere University, particularly over allegations of corruption and mismanagement. Reports have surfaced that Buyinza Mukadasi, the acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academics, is simultaneously holding the position of Academic Registrar, raising further concerns over the concentration of power within the university.
Kwizera’s remarks also coincide with a recent report from Parliament’s Education Committee on the 2025/26 Budget Framework Paper. The report highlights widespread staffing shortages at public universities across the country. Although the report mainly focuses on academic staffing, it underscores the severe undercapacity many institutions face.
For example, Busitema University is operating with only 10% of its required academic staff, while Muni University has 11%, Gulu University 21%, and Kabale and Mbarara Universities are functioning at 25%. Kyambogo University is operating at 35% and requires UGX 54.0 billion to address its wage shortfalls. Makerere University, the country’s largest institution, is running at just 40% of its required staffing capacity.
Additionally, the report highlights that both Makerere University and MUBS are facing operational disruptions in the 2025/26 financial year due to significant budget cuts. MUBS has been hit with a UGX 8.04 billion budget reduction, including a 17% cut to non-wage funding and a 27% reduction in capital development funds. Makerere University, on the other hand, is facing a UGX 4.358 billion cut, which will impact student allowances, teaching resources, and ongoing infrastructure projects.