The current situation at Makerere University, once the beacon of academic excellence in Uganda, is deeply concerning.
The alarming exodus of professors and senior academics threatens not only the institution’s reputation but also the very foundation of knowledge and research that these educators represent.
Historically, the university has retained its esteemed professors beyond the age of retirement (65) through a structured contract system (4, 4, 2). This approach recognized the invaluable contributions of seasoned academics, allowing them to continue enriching the university’s intellectual landscape.
However, the recent shift to a more restrictive contract model—now reduced to a single year—has been met with dismay and disillusionment among faculty. This change strips away the dignity and respect that should accompany such esteemed positions, particularly in critical fields like medicine and law.
Over the past decade, Makerere has lost more than thirty professors, many of whom chose not to renew their contracts. This decision reflects a profound sense of humiliation and a perceived disregard for their contributions.
These educators are not merely employees; they are public goods—custodians of knowledge whose expertise has been painstakingly cultivated over years of training and scholarship.
The decline in university rankings, now languishing at a dismal 41st position in sub- saharan Africa, serves as a stark indicator of the consequences of this policy. The erosion of academic standards and the diminishing of intellectual rigor are direct outcomes of treating our professors with such disdain.
Moreover, the arbitrary nature of contract renewals raises serious concerns about bias and political influence. Reports suggest that some academics enjoy favorable treatment based on their political affiliations, while others deemed “troublesome” face unjust dismissal.
This politicization undermines the university’s legacy of freedom of expression and academic independence—principles that have long distinguished Makerere as a leader in higher education. It is imperative for the University Appointments Board to act decisively and restore the honor of Makerere University.
Retaining our esteemed professors without bias is not merely a matter of policy; it is a matter of principle. The university must prioritize academic integrity over political expediency, ensuring that our educators are recognized for their contributions rather than their political alignments.
The university must once again become a sanctuary for critical thought and rigorous scholarship, rather than a submissive agency beholden to political whims. Makerere should restore dignity to the professors and honor the legacy of the university—an institution that has the potential to shape the future of Uganda and beyond.
That is no longer “your university” let it sink along with the people drilling holes in it’s hull.
Once they are bloated and completely dead, drowned, you as the “rightful sailors ” can salvage the ship.
There is no shame when ambushed by rapists, running away stark naked and leaving them with the dress. You have left them with the dress(Makerere buildings) but you are whole and “unviolated”(the people who teach and the values are still okay though not available at the building). They have temporarily got shelter elsewhere.
What makes quality education are quality teachers not buildings- Jesus, one of the greatest teachers had no building/Makerere but his teachings last and last.
You will come back for your dress when the rapists kill each other over who will smell the dress first.
Temufaayo.
Hiccup !