Makerere VC search takes new twist

By Conan Businge and Paul Kalyesubula

Makerere University’s Council has affirmed the search committee’s position that the search for the Vice Chancellor will not be halted, much as some candidates boycotted the final interviews on Monday.

The Council chairperson, Dr. Charles Wana Etyem while addressing the press on Tuesday said that the search committee continues its work for which it will report to Senate at an appropriate time.

“Senate will in turn submit its recommendation to the Council as and when it is ready.”

The Council also argued that Prof. Venansius Baryamureeba has not yet been proven to be influencing the search process, and should not be forced to resign his seat.

Dr. Etyem explained that, “no one by law is allowed to interfere with the search committee’s search for a Vice chancellor, not even the President.”

The substantive Vice Chancellor’s search, the Council boss said, should be done by the end of August.

Clocking 90

Meanwhile, the university is to launch year-long celebrations to mark its 90th anniversary with events starting from August 2012 to August 2013.

The celebrations under the theme: Celebrating 90 years of Makerere University: Leadership and Innovations TowardsAfrica’s Transformation in the 21st Century will entail a series of activities targeting staff, students, alumni, friends and well-wishers.

Dr. Aaron Mushengyezi, the chair of the publicity committee and also head of the department of Journalism and Communication revealed that President Yoweri Museveni will officiate at the launch of the celebrations to be held in the freedom square.

The university was established in 1922 as a technical school, the first ever in the country then.

“The celebrations are intended to highlight the landmark achievements of Makerere especially in the area of science and technology”, said Mushengezi.

In accordance with the theme of the celebrations, a foundation stone will be laid at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Food Technology and Business Incubation Centre.

The projects are funded under the presidential initiative to support innovations in science and technology besides the opening of the library extension building.