Kampala University Management Continues To set Strategic Direction For Institutional Growth

Kampala University’s management team gathered at the university's Ggaba Main campus recently for a crucial meeting aimed at shaping the institution's future direction. The meeting was chaired by the founding Vice-Chancellor, Owek. Al-Haj Prof. Badru D. Kateregga, emphasized the importance of strategic planning, action-oriented management, and strengthening accountability among the leadership.

Prof. Kateregga’s focus was clear: to ensure that Kampala University is not only effective in its operations but also well-positioned to face the challenges of the rapidly evolving higher education sector.

One of the major highlights of the meeting was the official introduction of the stakeholders (the Katereggas) to management, where he informed members that Ms. Rashisha Kateregga is now the new vice-chairperson of the BOT, introduced Mr. Faquih Muhammad Kateregga, Ms. Sarah Kateregga, Ms. Badria Kateregga, Ms. Sharifah Kateregga, Ms. Zibeddah Kateregga, Mr. Faisal Mubiru, and others who will be joining the team soon. He also announced the new appointments attached to the Vice-Chancellor's Office, where he said that Mr. Kamoga Ronald has been appointed a consultant on finance and general duties, Ms. Naila Florence a consultant on administration, Mr. Shakool Wahab a consultant on operations, Ms. Caroline Achola a personal assistant to the VC and Deputy Human Resource Manager, Ms. Bamusiima Winnie Deputy Academic Registrar, and Mr. Munawa Rogers an administrator at Luweero Campus.

Prof. Kateregga explained that these new appointments were made with the aim of infusing fresh expertise, energy, and innovative thinking into the leadership structure. By bringing in individuals with diverse backgrounds and specialised knowledge, the vice-chancellor hopes to create a management team that is both dynamic and capable of navigating the complexities of modern higher education.

He thanked the stakeholders for taking care of him and supporting him in the management of the university, more so during the critical and trying moments he has been going through that were caused by the former director of finance and marketing, who attempted to take away his dear life earlier than the scheduled calendar by the Almighty. He encouraged members to avoid being in a hurry as far as getting rich is concerned, be humble, and respect those who are above them. A 35-year-old person finishing my life because of personal gains was a serious mistake, because my luck isn’t your luck, my money isn’t your money, even if you finish me, it will never be yours; just work hard instead of living a pampered and luxurious life.

A central theme of the meeting was the call for action-oriented management. The VC, stakeholders, and the new consultants encouraged all members of the management team to focus on executing their tasks with efficiency and determination. “Plans are meaningless without action,” they said, urging the leadership to move beyond theoretical discussions and concentrate on tangible outcomes.

In line with promoting a culture of accountability, the Vice-Chancellor and team also emphasised the importance of monitoring staff performance. They noted that effective management hinges on understanding how individuals contribute to the university's goals and making sure that everyone is held accountable for their roles. “It’s crucial that staff members perform to the best of their abilities, and this must be consistently evaluated. The team also addressed the need for transparency in the performance review process, ensuring that staff are aware of expectations and held to them.

Additionally, Prof. Kateregga urged the management to promote a strong sense of ethics and compliance within the university. “Adhering to ethical standards is non-negotiable,” he stated, calling for all members of the team to lead by example. This includes ensuring that all staff members follow job descriptions precisely, perform their roles with integrity, and contribute to a culture of respect and professionalism. Compliance with university policies and national regulations was also highlighted as an essential component of the institution’s operations.
The Vice-Chancellor also discussed the importance of staying on course with the university's strategic goals. He stressed the need for all members of the management team to align their work with the key performance indicators (KPIs) that guide the institution’s progress. “Our actions must reflect the goals set out in our strategic plans,” he said, urging leaders to be mindful of the university’s vision and objectives. He highlighted the need for the implementation of the human resources manual, which will serve as a framework for managing staff and ensuring consistency in operations.

In terms of diversifying income streams, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted the importance of generating additional resources for the university. He encouraged the management team to explore innovative ways of raising funds, beyond traditional tuition fees, in order to support academic and infrastructural development. One of the strategies discussed was strengthening partnerships with alumni, which the VC emphasized as an untapped resource for both financial and professional support. By working closely with the alumni community, the university can access mentorship, networking opportunities, and funding to drive its long-term objectives.

Concluding the meeting, Prof. Kateregga reaffirmed the university’s commitment to adhering to its strategic goals, promoting accountability, and ensuring a high standard of management practices across all departments. He urged the management team to lead with integrity, stay focused on their objectives, and work collaboratively to meet the needs of the students and the broader community. The Vice-Chancellor expressed confidence that with the new appointments and a renewed focus on performance, accountability, and strategic direction, Kampala University is well-positioned for continued success and growth in the future.

In reaction, members thanked the Vice-Chancellor, the stakeholders, and all consultants for the guidance and wise direction of the University, and the sky will be the limit.

Julius Ssekatawa
P.R.O Kampala University