Makerere University Business School (MUBS) is in a dire situation as MUBS students have issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Ministry of Education, demanding the swift appointment of a new principal as the institution grapples with a leadership vacuum for seven months.
The prolonged absence of a substantive executive authority at MUBS stems from the expiration of Prof Wasswa Balunywa’s five-year contract, concluding his remarkable 26-year tenure as the head of the business studies center. Moses Muhwezi has been serving as the interim leader, but student representatives assert that his acting role has left him powerless to address their pressing concerns effectively.
Trust Hunting Vodka:0754649086
Christopher Wasswa, the guild president, emphasized the crippling impact of the current situation. He pointed out that MUBS regularly faces substantial challenges that necessitate decisive action.
“Without an executive authority capable of making essential decisions, the institution’s operations are severely hampered.”
Mary Jackeline Nakyeyune, the vice guild president, expressed deep concern that the absence of a substantive principal could affect up to 500 students’ graduation prospects. She highlighted the need for the principal to issue an executive order for a recess—a critical window for students to rectify issues like missing marks and outstanding fees payments.
“As efforts to secure this recess period for students have faltered, students fear that without a substantive principal, their academic progress is in jeopardy. The situation has raised concerns about issues like medical registration and the accuracy of the students’ payment records,” Nakyeyune started.
Mable Beinomugisha, the guild minister for Information, stressed the importance of rightful leadership. She explained that “with a principal in place, there would be someone accountable for resolving issues related to medical registration and tuition payments, ensuring students receive the answers they deserve.”
Beinomugisha also pointed out a concerning medical crisis, as students whose payments do not reflect on the web portal are denied access to essential medical services at the institute.
The MUBS students’ demand for a new principal is rooted in their desire for effective leadership that can address their urgent concerns, ranging from academic matters to essential services. The 72-hour ultimatum underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for prompt action before it gets worse.