Kyambogo university council tasked to address underfunding

Newly appointed Kyambogo University council members are set to tackle the institution's pressing challenges, including underfunded programs, staff salaries, and recruiting top-tier personnel.

Speaking during their induction ceremony on Wednesday, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Eli Katunguka emphasised the need for strategic solutions to address these issues.

"One of the biggest challenges is underfunding, which hampers the smooth running of most programs. We want to work with this council to develop a new strategic plan focused on funding and resource mobilization," Prof. Katunguka said.

He added, "We need financial support and stronger links with the government to secure programs that will enhance teaching and learning at the university. The council is the supreme organ of the university, responsible for policy development."

The council, comprising 17 new members, including Prof. Fred Wabwire-Mangen, Prof. Monica Chibita, Prof. Joseph Mugisha, Prof Maria G. N. Musoke, Assoc. Prof Justus Kwetegyeka, Eng. Dr. Christopher Ebal, and Mr Robert Bellarmine Okudi among others, will play a crucial role in advocating for greater funding.

"We need financial resources to develop infrastructure, recruit, and retain the best staff. The council, through its committees, will be instrumental in helping us achieve these objectives," Prof. Katunguka explained.

Minister of State for Higher Education John Chrysostom Muyingo underscored the importance of the university council in steering institutional success.

"The supreme governing body of the university is crucial. If such an important body is not well-prepared for its tasks, it can lead to disastrous outcomes," Mr Muyingo said. "I appreciate the new council and university management for organizing this induction because the success of any institution depends on the quality of its leadership and governance. Empowering council members with the necessary tools is commendable."

Mr. Muyingo also emphasized the council's role in planning, directing, and organizing the university's resources. "If they fully understand their role as the supreme governing body, they have the power to plan, direct, and organize all the university's resources effectively," he said.

The new council members were sworn in on Monday, marking the beginning of the sixth university council.