In a landmark series of events held between September and December 2025, UMI celebrated significant academic milestones of the inaugural professorial lectures of five visionary scholars who included the Director General, Prof. James L. Nkata, Prof. Maria Barifaijo, Prof. Rose Namara, Prof. Gerald Kagambirwe Karyeija, and Prof. Proscovia Namubiru Ssentamu. This new collegiate of professors represents UMI’s heavy investment in PhD – level research and its commitment to driving Uganda’s socio-economic transformation. The confirmation of these appointments’ signals commitment towards promotion of education innovations and advancements aimed at driving socio-economic transformation.

Presided over by the Chairperson of the Governing Council, Eng. Dr. Steven Paul Kagoda, the lectures served as a formal introduction of each professor’s scholarly focus to the academic community and the general public. He emphasized that these appointments follow a rigorous evaluation process, reflecting UMI’s pursuit of becoming a “research-led, world-class management development institute” as it pursues the legacy of excellence. UMI’s professorial lectures celebrate the peak of academic achievement, marking the official introduction of the Institute’s new ‘Brain Trust’ to the public. The lectures commemorate the promotion of academic staff to the rank of full professors and acknowledge the remarkable legacies of professors.

The Professorial lecture series showcased UMI’s groundbreaking research and visionary roadmaps to an audience of government dignitaries, policymakers, and international scholars. Beyond mere ceremony, these professorial lectures represent a vital intellectual milestone, serving as a platform for newly appointed professors to unveil their scholarly focus to the public. By presenting detailed blueprints for equitable and transformative development, these professors solidify their roles as essential architects of strategic research, capacity building, socio-economic transformation and public policy.

Presiding over this historic series of lectures, Eng. Dr. Steven Paul Kagoda, the Chairperson of the UMI Governing Council, hailed the elevation of these professors as a vital catalyst for institutional unity and academic excellence. He championed the institute’s bold strategic shift toward becoming a research-led powerhouse, noting that the visionary contributions of these scholars are essential to UMI’s mission of driving world-class socio-economic transformation.

In a stirring address, UMI Director General Professor James Nkata extended institutional recognition to the new professors, commending the resilience and unwavering patience required to attain such a prestigious rank which is a high point in one’s professional life. He described the appointment as the zenith of an academic career, a stage of self-actualization. Likening this milestone to a plane reaching its cruising altitude, Prof. Nkata reminded the scholars that this height demands sustained efforts and continued research to ensure that their voices remain at the forefront of their respective disciplines. He cautioned that while they have reached the peak of their journey, they must navigate the inevitable ‘turbulences’ of the field with continued research and high-impact publications to remain afloat and influential. He urged the new cohort to leverage their rank to shape both professional practice and policy.

Highlights and Roadmaps of the 2025 Professorial Lecture Series

Professor Rose Bakenegura Namara: 

On September 25, 2025, Professor Rose Bakenegura Namara made history by delivering the first-ever inaugural professorial lecture at the Uganda Management Institute (UMI). Under the theme, “Reimagining the Future of Development: Social Inclusion, Social Justice, and Alternative Pathways,” in which she challenged the status quo of Uganda’s development agenda. Her lecture was an urgent call to reform systems that often fail the most vulnerable. She argued that current development approaches frequently reproduce old forms of exclusion under new names.

She advocated for a Paradigm Shift to move away from “counting beneficiaries” to fundamentally changing the rules that keep people on the margins. She further advocated for the “Shared Power Model” which suggests that development must ensure power, resources, and decision-making. That these should be shared fairly to avoid inviting marginalized groups into “unequal spaces.”  Drawing on data showing that 429 million people in Africa still live below the poverty line, Prof. Namara proposed a “Grounded Community-Based Approach” to dismantle structural exclusion and this included “The Borda Model” in which she highlighted participatory decision-making models that empower local communities; the “Collaborative Success” which cited initiatives like the Kinywand District Development Association which demonstrates collaborative partnerships between local governments, NGOs and universities to boost project efficiency and accountability; “Gender Justice” as a core pillar of her roadmap is reducing inequalities without increasing the vulnerability of marginalized groups.

Eng. Dr. Steven Paul Kagoda, Chairperson of the Governing Council, congratulated Prof Rose and described her appointment as a “record-breaking milestone that followed a rigorous approval process. He emphasized that true success is built on a foundation of gratitude and mentorship. “We must acknowledge those who help us grow,” Dr. Kagoda noted, urging Prof. Namara to remain grounded and connected to the communities she serves. Director General Professor James L. Nkata hailed the day as a testament to UMI’s commitment to academic excellence. He highlighted that UMI has intentionally built a culture of inclusivity and an enabling environment that allows visionary scholars like Prof. Namara to reach their full potential.

Prof. Namara is a scholar with over 25 years of experience and currently serves as the Head of the Institute Research and Innovation Centre (IRIC) at UMI, she holds a PhD in Development Studies from Erasmus University, the Hague. Her work is at the heart of Uganda’s policy landscape; she is a member of the National Monitoring and Evaluation Technical Working Group. Her scholarly legacy includes extensive publications on gender-responsive budgeting, local governance, and institutional reforms; all aimed at bridging the gap between academic theory and national policy.

 Professor Maria Vincent Kaguhangire:

On 28^th October 2025, UMI celebrated her 2^nd Inaugural Professorial Lecture by Professor Maria Vincent Kaguhangire – Barifaijo with the topic on “Promoting data driven decision making for competitive advantage: Regimentation of Institutional Research” which highlighted the pivotal role of data in shaping the future of education, while also reflecting on the essential values of strategic leadership, innovative teaching methods, resilience, and lifelong learning that guide academic success and a data-informed approach to decision-making.

In today’s rapidly evolving world, higher education institutions face increasing pressure to adapt to changing technologies, societal needs, and global trends. To stay relevant and competitive, educational institutions must embrace strategic leadership, innovative teaching methods, and a data-informed approach to decision-making. Prof. Maria Barifaijo’s inaugural lecture highlights the pivotal role of data in shaping the future of education, while also reflecting on the essential values of leadership, resilience, and lifelong learning that guide academic success.

She emphasized that institutions must move beyond compliance reporting and adopt a culture where data is viewed as a strategic asset. According to her, the integration of data into institutional decision-making processes can drive continuous improvement, enhance academic quality, improve student outcomes, and ensure financial sustainability. “Data is not just a set of numbers; it is a tool for empowerment,” Prof. Barifaijo explained. “When we harness the power of data, we unlock the potential for transformative change that benefits both our institutions and the communities we serve.”

In her vision, institutional research (IR) plays a critical role in providing the insights needed to inform strategic decisions. Rather than relying on intuition or tradition, IR enables universities to make evidence-based decisions that foster growth and innovation. Prof. Barifaijo’s work encourages institutions to view data as a catalyst for both incremental improvements and sustainable success. By fostering a data-informed culture, higher education institutions can adapt more readily to the ever-changing landscape of global education. This approach not only supports academic excellence but also helps institutions stay competitive in an increasingly complex and fast-paced environment.

Prof. James Nkata, the Director General congratulated Prof. Barifaijo’s lecture and further emphasized that educational leaders must continue to innovate, adapt, and grow while inspiring those around them to do the same. He added that the future of higher education lies in embracing data, cultivating resilience, and remaining humble in the pursuit of excellence.

While addressing the gathering, Eng. Dr. Steven Paul Kagoda, the Chairman of UMI’s Governing Council ’s reiterated that while data driven decision-making is critical, leadership in higher education is not solely about technical skills or strategic thinking but it is also about resilience, perseverance, and the ability to inspire others. He highlighted the importance of these qualities, offering profound wisdom for those in positions of leadership. He also shared a powerful perspective on success and failure, stating that “Success has many claimants, failure is unoffered.” to mean that success often attracts attention, while failure is often overlooked or ignored; however, it is through failure and the lessons learned from it that true growth occurs. “Learning has no end… one must continue learning until the last day of your life,” Dr. Kagoda added. His words serve as a reminder that leadership in education is a lifelong journey. As leaders, educators must remain committed to continuous learning, adapting their strategies, and evolving with the times. In an age where technology and knowledge are constantly advancing, leaders who fail to embrace this mind-set risk being left behind.

As Prof. Barifaijo’s lecture drew to a close, she outlined her vision for the future of higher education in Uganda and beyond and expressed a desire to see institutions move beyond mere compliance reporting and toward a culture of continuous improvement driven by data. “I envision a future where data is a strategic asset used by all stakeholders for continuous improvement and shared accountability,” she said. Her vision includes fostering a data-informed culture within institutions that not only improves academic outcomes but also supports the personal growth of students, faculty, and staff. She believes that through institutional research and data-driven decisions, universities can achieve sustainable progress in academic quality, student success, and financial sustainability. By focusing on data-driven decision-making, fostering a culture of lifelong learning, and staying grounded in the values of service, higher education institutions can thrive in an increasingly complex world despite the challenges.

Professor Maria Kaguhangire Barifaijo is a distinguished academic leader whose career is defined by her pursuit of excellence in educational quality and governance. As the Head of the Department of Educational Leadership and Management at UMI’s School of Management Sciences, she has become a central figure in shaping Uganda’s higher education landscape. With a prolific research portfolio featuring at least 18 peer-reviewed publications, her work spans to global recognitions including over 190 citations reflecting her significant influence on the international discourse of human resource and higher education management.

 Professor Gerald Kagambirwe Kareija

On November 20, 2025, the Uganda Management Institute celebrated a landmark professorial lecture by Professor Gerald Kagambirwe Karyeija. Addressing the audience under the theme, “Attuning Autonomy and Accountability in Homegrown Administrative Reforms,” Prof. Karyeija argued that the secret to better public services lies in the balance of power. He asserted that granting institutions the autonomy to be technically competent is a non-negotiable condition for national stability and the ultimate improvement of every citizen’s well-being. His elevation to full Professor marks the high point of a journey that began at UMI in 2010, defined by a dedication to transformational leadership in public administration.

Prof. Gerald Karyeija explored the future of administrative autonomy while focusing on the critical equilibrium between autonomy and accountability. He highlighted how “homegrown” reforms rooted in local context are the key to institutional excellence and technical mastery.

In a moving tribute, Prof. Nkata emphasized Professor Kareija’s transformative footprint on public administration, lauding his exceptional ability to mentor a new generation of leaders and his success in elevating the standards in both the national and international stages. He extended his congratulations and profoundly acknowledged that such a historic milestone was made possible by dedication, resilience and hard work

Furthering the accolades, the Director of Programmes and Students’ Affairs commended Professor Karyeija’s seamless alignment with the Uganda Management Institute’s strategic mission, explicitly noting that the visionary stewardship of Professor James Nkata created the fertile ground necessary for such significant academic and professional ascent. The ceremony is a high profile gathering of national dignitaries, eminent scholars, and family. It honored the intimate personal resilience of Professor Karyeija’s journey while celebrating his profound, lasting influence on the broader landscape of Ugandan governance and institutional reforms.

The scholarly trajectory of Professor Gerald Kagambirwe Karyeija is deeply anchored in a legacy of education and service. He inherited an early appreciation for the rigors of discipline and the transformative power of education though his late parents Ezerah Rwangohe Kagambirwe and Norah Busingye Kagambirwe who were both dedicated educators,. This foundation was further enriched by the classical philosophies of Thomas Hobbes and Jean-Jacques Rousseau who strongly inspired him

His ascent to the peak of academia has been guided by a distinguished circle of mentors, including Rt. Rev. Onesmus Asiimwe, Prof. Sabiiti Makara, Prof. Manson Tweheyo, Prof. Ishtiaq Jamil, and the Rt. Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda. Central to his resilience and success has been the unwavering partnership and support of his wife, Faustine Nakazibwe, who has stood as a pillar throughout his academic and professional evolution. As a leading voice in the strengthening of democratic institutions, Prof. Karyeija spearheads critical research into parliamentary effectiveness, electoral reform, and the professionalization of administrative cadres across Africa.

During the milestone celebration, Eng. Dr. Steven Paul Kagoda, Chairperson of the Governing Council, formally affirmed that Professor Karyeija’s elevation was the result of an exhaustive and rigorous evaluation process—a testament to UMI’s unwavering commitment to the highest standards of academic excellence. Adding to the tributes, Professor Manson Tweheyo lauded the new Professor’s profound scholarly contributions to the field of governance, officially welcoming him into the elite and prestigious ranks of the global professoriate.

The ceremony was further distinguished by the presence of the Chief Guest, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, who applauded the Uganda Management Institute’s continued ascent as a center of excellence. In a stirring commendation, the former Prime Minister urged Professor Karyeija to remain steadfast in his dedication to national service, famously describing him as “a man of significant and enduring value” to the Republic of Uganda

Professor Gerald Kagambirwe Karyeija is a preeminent scholar and practitioner whose influence spans the landscape of public administration across Africa and beyond. His career is a rare fusion of high-level academic rigor and decades of hands-on experience in governance reform, institutional development, and public policy. As the former Dean of the School of Management Sciences at UMI, Professor Karyeija has built an illustrious legacy at the intersection of academic leadership and national service. An internationally educated scholar, he holds a PhD and an MPhil in Public Administration and Organization Theory from the University of Bergen, Norway, complemented by a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from Makerere University.

With a career spanning over 25 years, Professor Karyeija has become a definitive voice in strategic leadership, project management, and development policy. His scholarly and consultancy footprint is truly global, extending to more than 30 countries. This vast international exposure has allowed him to shape a modern understanding of public administration that is both globally informed and uniquely adapted to the African context. Beyond his distinguished tenure at UMI, Professor Karyeija holds prestigious international appointments, including serving as an Extra-Ordinary Professor of Public Administration at North-West University in South Africa and as a Senior Scholar at the University of Lusaka. His status as a global thought leader was further cemented as a 2017–2018 NAFSA Global Dialogue Fellow, a high-level recognition of his contributions to the internationalization of higher education.

Professor Karyeija’s professional influence extends across Africa’s most vital governance platforms. He currently serves as the Chairperson of the ECASSA Institute of Social Protection and is a prominent Board Member of the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre. Within the Uganda Management Institute, he represents the Senate on the Governing Council, while on the continental stage, he is a dedicated Council Member of the African Association of Public Administration and Management (AAPAM), the premier platform for public sector excellence in Africa.

A tireless contributor to the global body of knowledge, Professor Karyeija has authored a vast portfolio of peer-reviewed articles and policy briefs that directly inform government decision-making. His commitment to the future of the field is evidenced by his supervision of numerous PhD and Master’s scholars, many of whom are now leading practitioners in public administration. His academic rigor is in constant demand; he serves as a reviewer and editorial board member for six prestigious journals and acts as an External Examiner for 13 universities worldwide. This extensive evaluative role underscores his reputation as a trusted guardian of academic standards and an expert of international standing. He is also affiliated with professional memberships reflect the breadth of his networks. He embodies the intersection of academic scholarship, policy relevance, and leadership excellence. His contributions continue to shape the discourse and practice of public administration both within Uganda and across the African continent.

Prof. Kareija’s elevation to Professorship symbolizes not only personal achievement but also the continued advancement of public administration scholars in Uganda. His journey is a testament to resilience, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to academic excellence. As UMI continues to cement its status as a centre of learning and leadership, his work remains integral in shaping the next generation of public sector innovators and nation builders.

 Professor Proscovia Namubiru Ssentamu:

On 26^th November 2025, UMI marked a defining academic moment when ot hosted the inaugural professorial lecture of Professor Proscovia Namubiru Ssentamu under the theme “Transforming Education in Uganda: Equity, Inclusion, Relevance and Quality as imperatives for system change. Every learner matters and every voice shapes our future”. She urged for education transformation through the interconnected foundation of four inseparable imperatives of equitable access, inclusive participation, contextual relevance and transformative quality. Her philosophy is rooted in the conviction that education is a right of every learner and a responsibility of every educator, policy maker and community and that the sacred work of cultivating human potential, honoring cultural identity and building resilient societies.

The session was opened with warm remarks from Assoc. Prof. Paddy Mugambe, who welcomed guests to UMI’s 4th inaugural lecture and invited Dr. Kasozi Mulindwa, the Director of Programmes and Students’ Affairs to set the tone for an afternoon dedicated to excellence and reflection. Dr. Kasozi extended heartfelt appreciation to all who contributed to the event’s success, noting that the day stood as a testament to years of commitment and academic rigor. He applauded that “Prof. James Nkata, the Director General is reaping the fruits of his great hard work,” as this is a commemoration of UMI’s broader legacy of nurturing distinguished scholars. In his address, the Director General Prof. Nkata, notably honoured Prof. Namubiru’s ascent to the Collegiate of Professors. He emphasized that professorship is earned through years of dedication, integrity, and service. “You are among Uganda’s top 0.08%,” he reminded her, adding that such a title calls for humility and leadership. He acknowledged her family, church, and mentors for anchoring her academic journey. “Your title uplifts all of us,” he celebrated.

When Prof. Proscovia Namubiru Ssentamu finally took the stage, she carried the room with gratitude and purpose. She thanked her husband, family, colleagues, teachers, and partners such as KAAD, DAAD, Makerere University, and the Catholic Church. “This accolade is ours together,” she affirmed, honoring the communities that shaped her path.

Her lecture themed “Transforming Education in Uganda”explored the tension between Uganda’s educational aspirations and its lived realities. Driven by pillars of equity, inclusion, relevance, and quality, she called for systemic transformation and introduced the Contextual Transformative Education Framework: a model that sees these pillars not as isolated elements but as interconnected drivers of lasting change. “Relevance isn’t found in classrooms—it is found in communities,” she emphasized and urged educators, leaders, and policymakers to embrace holistic alignment.

Prof. Namubiru outlined six guiding principles that should shape education in Uganda and Africa. These include education as a human right; inclusion as non-negotiable; relevance that reflects community context; quality as a sustained culture; education as a transformative force; and leadership as sacred stewardship. “Every learner matters, and every voice shapes our future,” she reminded attendees—an anthem that echoed throughout her message.

The congratulatory speeches included an address from Prof. Ronald Bisaso who praised her humility and intellectual depth, noting the lecture’s significance for both Uganda and Africa. “Education is an equalizer,” he affirmed, urging institutions to bridge gaps and align learning with community realities. Eng. Dr. Kagoda added a spirited tribute, applauding Prof. Namubiru’s resilience. “Success has many claimants, but failure is an orphan and today I claim success with you!” he said, presenting her commemorative plaque with pride.

Her inaugural lecture was more than an academic milestone as it instilled collective hope and renewed commitment. It was a bold call to shape an education system where every learner is seen, valued, and empowered. Her message resonated deeply in emphasizing that education is sacred work, a shared responsibility, a transformative force, and a promise that must be kept.

Professor Proscovia Namubiru Ssentamu holds a PhD in Education from the University of Bayreuth, Germany, MA (Curriculum Studies) from University of London, UK, M.Ed (Curriculum Studies) from Makerere University, Postgraduate Diploma (Education Technology) from University of Cape Town, South Africa and a Graduate Certificate (Quality Assurance) from University of Melbourne, Australia. 

She has extensive international training and expertise in curriculum design, evaluation, quality assurance, and teacher education, with prior experience of lecturing at Makerere University serving in Uganda’s Ministry of Education and in Uganda National Examinations Board. She is as a distinguished academic and quality assurance expert who advocates for education as a human right, emphasizes inclusion, quality and contextual relevance. She advocates for connection of local roots with global relevance in empowering learners and communities.

Professor James L. Nkata, Director General:

On 12^th December 2025, Uganda Management Institute held the inaugural Professorial lecture of Prof. James L. Nkata under the theme; Revisioning University Education in Uganda For Rebuilding Public Trust: A Call For Reconfiguration Of Governance And Leadership

He is a specialist and scholar in Higher Education Management, Administration and Planning. He is also a specialist in management and administration sciences in public sector and currently serves as the Director General of Uganda Management Institute. Prior to that, he worked as a Senior Lecturer of Management and Administrative Studies in Makerere University and Director of the East African Institute of Higher Education Studies and Research. He is currently the Chancellor of YMCA Comprehensive Institute and the Chairperson of YMCA National Executive Committee. He is also serving on several Editorial Boards of International Journals. His lecture was a call to re-imagine university education and restore public trust.

He reiterated that the landscape of higher education in Uganda is at critical crossroads and as the demand for advanced learning grows, so does the skepticism regarding its value, governance, and outcomes. He explored the urgent need for a “reconfiguration” of university leadership to restore the foundation of all academic endeavors. 

He argued that Universities are no longer mere “sanctuaries” removed from society; they are active participants in a rapidly changing global economy. Prof. Nkata explained that the modern Ugandan university must develop survival instincts, not just for the institution itself, but to equip students with the tools to navigate a competitive world. He further stated that “Trust is no longer given or inherited from traditions or guaranteed by reputation. It is built and rebuilt with transparency, accountability, and responsiveness each day.”

He asserted that the monopoly of public universities has ended, giving way to a diverse ecosystem of higher education providers. However, this expansion brings new challenges in quality oversight and accountability. He noted that with over 85% of universities being private entities, the challenge lies in reconciling various founding intentions ranging from religious philosophies to profit-driven models—with the common public good.

The lecture identified several “trust-eroding” factors currently facing Ugandan institutions and these included Commercialization of education, employability gaps due to mismatch between academic degrees and the ability of graduates to survive in the dynamic job market, political Interference through challenges to institutional autonomy and academic freedom and Governance Rigidity through outdated bureaucracies that fail to respond to the needs of the “digital age” and the younger generation. 

Prof. Nkata proposed a roadmap for reconfiguration by calling for a fundamental shift in how universities are governed. He suggested that the “revisioning” process should include depoliticizing leadership through strengthening University Councils and ensuring appointments are based on merit and expertise; Institutionalizing Transparency by adopting participatory budgeting and open decision making processes; Innovative Pedagogy though moving beyond the “bondage of the past” to implement active, future-oriented learning and Moral Leadership though reclaiming the university’s voice as a guardian of truth in an era of digital misinformation.

He concluded that for Universities to remain relevant and become the fountain head of national development, they must transform and become a “living promise” for a just and sustainable future by amending academic programs according to changing times, prioritize social mobility, commit to continual self-renewal, review the current structures and build stakeholder trust.

Academic and professional footprint

Prof. Nkata’s academic journey is rooted in a commitment to excellence in management and planning. He holds a PhD in Higher Education Management, Administration, and Planning from Makerere University, a Master of Science (MSc) in Management Sciences and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education Management from University of Edinburgh, Scotland. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education, specializing in education management and planning, from Makerere University. His early career was marked by a prolific 22-year tenure at Makerere University, where he served as a Senior Lecturer in Management and Administrative Studies. He was the Director of the East African Institute of Higher Education Studies and Research.

Prof. Nkata is the Director General of UMI and is also the Chancellor of the YMCA Comprehensive Institute and the Chairperson of the National Executive Committee. He possesses over 20 years of experience in international and national consultancy, specializing in public sector reforms, education planning and organizational development. As a dedicated scholar, Prof. Nkata has successfully supervised 26 PhD candidates in management and public administration to successful completion plus supervising of 35 Master’s degree students through their research and graduation. His scholarly output includes multiple authored books and numerous peer-reviewed journal articles. Furthermore, he serves on the Editorial Boards of several international journals, contributing to the global discourse on institutional planning, leadership and governance.

Prof. Nkata is widely regarded as a visionary whose leadership has strategically positioned UMI as the primary engine for public service capacity development in the region and he continues to shape the future of civil service reforms and leadership training in Africa. He remains a recipient of several prestigious research grants and recognitions which continue to support policy innovations and academic development at both national and institutional levels.