Makerere University Academic staff have expressed objection against the extension of Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe’s contract as Vice Chancellor, claiming the process was fradulent and irregular.
In a letter dated 12th August 2022, the University Secretary stated that Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe had been re-appointed for another five-year term as VC for Makerere University, with immediate effect.
However, University Staff Associations MUASA, MASA & NUEI say basing on law and policy, Nawangwe does not qualify for re-appointment.
In a joint statement signed by association heads; Dr Robert Kakuru, Bernet Magara and Bruce Twesigye, University staff claims that the manner in which the re-appointment of Nawangwe was conducted is questionable. They claim, Nawangwe’s re-appointment process was based on covert, biased, disputed and clandestine methods.
“We do not contest the mandate of the University Council to re-appoint a Vice Chancellor…the fradulent appointment process confirms and reinforces our unrelenting complaints over the decaying University employment system.” the statement reads in part.
Prior to Nawangwe’s re-appointment, the staff associations also claim they raised several issues against the decisions of the Univesity Council but were ignored.
“We find it reprehensible that Makerere University will celebrate 100 years of excellence with an irregularly recruited Vice Chancellor, and time will be our judge” the statement further reads.
The staff associations say Makerere University has survived because of its meritorious, transparent asnd robust employment systems, without which, it will downgrade its position in society.
The staff associations noted that they will soon organize a joint staff assembly where the matter of Nawangwe’s re-appointment and other employment issues will be discussed.