On September 20, 2023, the 8th University council had its inauguration ceremony at the Statehouse. Dr. Warren Naamara, the chairman of the council, led the council members. They were welcomed at State House Nakasero by Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni, the First Lady and Minister for Education and Sports.
The event began with remarks from Prof. Celestino Obua, the Vice Chancellor, who expressed gratitude to the Ugandan government for its support to Mbarara University of Science & Technology (MUST) since 1989. He also acknowledged the support of H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and emphasized the importance of government support in the university’s development. Dr. Warren Naamara, the council chairman, then presented MUST’s achievements, progress, and challenges.
Dr. Warren Naamara highlighted MUST’s commitment to becoming a center of academic and professional excellence in science and technology. The university aims to achieve this through learner-centered instruction, research-driven initiatives, and knowledge transfer partnerships.
However, he also pointed out several challenges faced by the university, including the potential risk of closing the Medical School due to infrastructure issues, limited development of the Kihumuro campus, and difficulties in engaging in public-private partnerships (PPP) for infrastructure development. Additionally, the university currently operates with low staffing capacity, which affects its performance.
Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni, the Minister of Education and Sports, welcomed the MUST Council Members and praised the university’s management for their efforts in making MUST one of Uganda’s best institutions. She thanked the outgoing council members for their dedication and encouraged the new council to lead the university into the future.
She emphasized the importance of producing well-rounded graduates and urged the university staff to support students in achieving academic excellence while instilling values of integrity and noble character. Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni also highlighted the challenges faced by today’s youth and called for addressing issues like drug abuse, homosexuality, corruption, and immorality.
