Meet the People
Behind VU

Professor John Opuda - Asibo, joined Victoria University as its Chancellor with over 43 years of wide professional experience gained from universities, government departments and research institutions in Africa, Europe, Japan and USA relevant to University teaching. He holds a Veterinary Medical Degree (1977) from Makerere University, a Master of Public Health (1980) and PhD (1983) degrees, the latter in Microbiology, Epidemiology and Public Health, both from the University of Minnesota, USA. His Public Health training has equiped him with multi-sectoral knowledge application in Epidemiology (observational and analytical), Administration, Economics, Education and Governance. He is an accomplished researcher and has published widely in refereed journals and with chapters in books. He has a respectable experience in Administration and Institutional Management, Financing and regulation of higher education. He rose through the ranks to full Professor in 1997 at Makerere University and was a Chair of a Department, Director of Graduate Studies and Research. At Kyambogo University, he was, a Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs (Provost) and Vice Chancellor (President). He was also an Executive Director and Chief Regulator of Higher education at the National Council for Higher Education, Uganda. His other experiences include; A Senior Research Fulbright Fellow at the University of California at Davis teaching graduate programmes Visiting scholar at Nagasaki University Institute of Tropical Medicine, Japan External examiner and supervisor of graduate students in Uganda, Kenya, Canada, Germany, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia, UK, Japan, Sweden, Norway and USA. Member and Chairman of the National Biosafety Committee in Uganda. Director POSTA Uganda Member Higher Education Financing Board A consultant and a Key note speaker. Professor John Opuda - Asibo is a practitioner of positive human values, which include - good leadership, respect of authority, financial transparency, honesty while accommodating other people and opinions The Chancellor is the titular head of the University and as such presides at all ceremonial assemblies of the University and, in the name of that University, confers degrees and other academic titles and distinctions of that University.

Dr. Joseph N. Biribonwa, the former Vice Chairman of the Electoral Commission of Uganda, is a respected figure with over 40 years of professional experience in democracy and governance, management, administration, finance, and corporate governance. His tenure at the Electoral Commission was marked by efforts to enhance transparency and efficiency in Uganda's electoral processes. With a doctorate in a relevant field, Biribonwa has contributed significantly to the discourse on democracy and governance through various platforms, including academic publications, seminars, and as a consultant for governmental and non-governmental organizations. His extensive background also encompasses roles in financial oversight and strategic leadership, making him a valuable expert in navigating the complex intersections of governance, finance, and corporate ethics.

Mr. Jay Sakaria, a member with an esteemed qualification as an Actuary from the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries in the UK (FIA), contributes a wealth of specialized expertise to the field. His areas of proficiency include reserving, capital modeling, business planning, pricing, and Solvency II regulations, showcasing a comprehensive skill set critical to the insurance and financial sectors. Mr. Sakaria's extensive experience and deep understanding of these complex domains enable him to deliver strategic insights and solutions that drive financial stability, risk management, and strategic growth. His role is pivotal in navigating the intricate landscape of financial regulations and economic challenges, making his contribution invaluable to the organizations he serves.

Dr. Consolata Kabonesa is an Associate Professor at the School of Women and Gender Studies, Makerere University, Uganda, with over 25 years of experience in gender analysis, research, and training across vital areas such as agriculture, education, health, and human rights. A National Gender Trainer and former Dean of her school, she has contributed significantly to gender and equity budgeting, holding a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Kabonesa's work includes leading various projects focused on gender-responsive budgeting and enhancing gender-focused research, funded by international and local grants. She has published extensively on gender issues, contributing to the understanding and promotion of gender equality and human development. Her awards include a National Educationists Medal, recognizing her commitment to gender equality and education.

Andrew Mwenda, a Ugandan journalist and founder of The Independent magazine, has had a notable career beginning as a political editor at The Daily Monitor and hosting a radio show. Born in 1972, Mwenda's educational journey took him from Makerere University to earning a Chevening Scholarship for his master's at SOAS, University of London, with fellowships at Yale, Oxford, and Stanford. Recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum and a top global thinker by Foreign Policy Magazine, Mwenda has significantly contributed to discussions on African development, diplomacy between Uganda and Rwanda, and the role of trade over foreign aid. He co-founded Tugende, a microfinance enterprise, demonstrating his impact as a journalist, academic, and entrepreneur.

Mr. James Kalebbo, distinguished for his 32-year tenure at the Uganda Management Institute (UMI), is celebrated for propelling UMI to excellence through core principles of honesty, accountability, truth, teamwork, and punctuality. His leadership transformed UMI, significantly expanding its programs and manpower, and positioning it among Africa's top management training institutes. Kalebbo's commitment to meritocracy and quality education established a solid foundation for UMI's future. His efforts have left a lasting legacy, contributing to the institute's trajectory towards becoming a fully-fledged university, renowned for offering a wide range of graduate degrees and diplomas​

Dr. Kanyiginya Mary Tizikara is a revered expert in Human Resource Management and Development, with a focus on policy, practice, employee job satisfaction, and higher education management. With over 20 years of administrative and HR experience in higher education at Makerere University, she has held pivotal roles including Director of Human Resources. Dr. Tizikara's expertise spans staff recruitment, onboarding, training and development, performance and reward management, as well as disciplinary and grievance handling. Her work has significantly contributed to improving HR practices in the academic sector, positioning her as a leader in developing HR strategies that enhance job satisfaction and organizational efficiency ​

Mr. Sameer Thakkar stands as a distinguished member of the professional community, bringing a wealth of expertise and dedication to the fields of finance and audit. His proficiency in International Reporting Standards is not just a testament to his knowledge but a cornerstone of his significant contributions to ICPAU's Technical Committee. In this role, Mr. Thakkar ensures strict adherence to professional standards, upholding the integrity of financial reporting and auditing practices across the board. Additionally, his dedication extends to the Education Sub-Committee, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of student education in accounting and finance. Holding esteemed qualifications such as FFCA (UK) and CPA (U), Mr. Thakkar's specialization in finance and audit underlines his commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. His contributions not only enhance the professional landscape but also inspire the next generation of accountants and auditors, making him a respected figure in his field.

Mr. Ssemambo Rashid is a distinguished Advocate admitted to all courts of Judicature in Uganda, with thirteen years of advancing expertise in private legal practice, financial management, and international transactions. His career is marked by significant contributions to legal practice, where his in-depth knowledge and strategic approach have navigated complex legal landscapes. His proficiency in financial management and international transactions has further solidified his reputation as a versatile professional capable of addressing multifaceted legal challenges. Mr. Ssemambo's commitment to excellence, coupled with his extensive experience, positions him as a pivotal figure in Uganda's legal sector, where his insights and expertise continue to influence the development of legal practices and policies.

Dr. Lawrence Muganga stands as a revolutionary force in global education, merging Ugandan vigor with Canadian innovation to redefine learning landscapes. His illustrious journey, from the academic halls of Makerere University to earning a Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Leadership at the University of Alberta, Canada, underscores his relentless pursuit of excellence. As the visionary Vice Chancellor of Victoria University in Kampala, Dr. Muganga catapulted the institution from obscurity to a towering beacon of academic brilliance, exponentially growing its student body from under 200 to an astounding 6,000 in just three years. He is not just an academic; he is a digital education architect, pioneering the full integration of digital platforms in East African education, setting unprecedented standards in the process. Dr. Muganga is a prolific author, with seminal works like "You Can't Make Fish Climb Trees" and "Authentic University" under his belt, advocating for a seismic shift towards personalized, AI-enhanced learning experiences. His leadership and innovative educational strategies have earned him the prestigious Pan African Revolutionary Education Award, celebrating his commitment to fusing indigenous African knowledge with cutting-edge educational practices. Beyond academia, Dr. Muganga is a global explorer, with insights gleaned from 51 countries enriching his educational philosophy. Dr. Muganga isn't just shaping the future of education; he's inviting us all to be part of a lifelong journey of discovery, growth, and transformation, making his narrative not just inspiring but a compelling call to action for educators and learners worldwide.

Mrs. M.G. Katusabe-Ssemwezi shines as a linchpin in the realm of higher education governance and management, wielding her expertise as the University Secretary and Secretary to Council at Victoria University. Boasting an impressive tenure of over 30 years in the field, her contribution transcends the mere administrative; Mary has been instrumental in sculpting institutional policies, ensuring their seamless implementation and thorough evaluation. Her leadership extends across the educational landscape, having chaired governing bodies with a deft hand, showcasing her profound grasp on change management, strategic communication, and adept conflict resolution. Mrs. Katusabe-Ssemwezi's seasoned career embodies a legacy of excellence and visionary leadership, positioning her as an invaluable asset to the academic community and a guiding force in steering institutions towards global competitiveness and innovation.

Mugarura Isaiah Ndebwoha is the 9th Guild President of Victoria University, Uganda, and a passionate student leader committed to advancing student welfare, inclusive leadership, and academic excellence. He joined Victoria University in 2023 and started in the Student Recruitment Office, where he successfully balanced both work and academic responsibilities. This experience gave him a firsthand understanding of students’ needs and inspired his dedication to advocating for their welfare and creating a more engaging university experience. From the time he joined the university, Isaiah actively participated in student activities and leadership initiatives. His commitment, service, and ability to represent students earned him the trust of the student community, leading to his appointment as the 8th Guild Prime Minister. Building on this experience, he successfully contested for the office of the 9th Guild President, where he now leads the Guild Government with a vision of promoting student-centered governance, accountability, innovation, and collaboration. Isaiah received his O-Level education at King’s College Budo before proceeding to Makerere College School for his A-Level studies. He is currently in his third year pursuing a Bachelor of Software Engineering at Victoria University, combining his passion for technology with a strong commitment to leadership and community development. As Guild President, Isaiah continues to champion initiatives that enhance student welfare, strengthen student engagement, foster partnerships, and create opportunities for personal and professional growth. He believes that effective leadership is built on integrity, service, inclusivity, and a genuine commitment to empowering others. Beyond his academic and leadership responsibilities, Isaiah is passionate about youth empowerment, innovation, and using technology as a tool to solve real-world challenges. He remains dedicated to inspiring fellow students to become responsible leaders who positively impact their communities and society at large.

Ms. Ampaire Juliet, serving both as an esteemed member and an academic staff representative, is the driving force behind the administration at Market Plaza. Her expertise in Leadership and Governance has not only propelled her to the forefront of her field but also cemented her status as a pivotal figure in shaping effective administrative strategies and fostering a culture of excellence. Ms. Ampaire's profound understanding of organizational dynamics and her innovative approach to leadership have significantly contributed to enhancing operational efficiencies and governance structures. Her dedication and vision extend beyond day-to-day management, inspiring both peers and students alike, making her an indispensable asset to her institution and a role model in the academic and administrative community.

Tayebwa James Bamwenda serves as a Lecturer at Victoria University and the Academic Staff Representative to the Victoria University Council. As an academic, researcher, and mentor, he is committed to empowering students through quality teaching, critical inquiry, and practical learning. He believes that education should not only impart knowledge but also inspire innovation, ethical leadership, and meaningful social transformation. At Victoria University, Tayebwa works alongside dedicated colleagues to foster a dynamic learning environment where students are encouraged to think critically, embrace research, and develop practical solutions to local and global challenges. Whether teaching in the classroom, supervising research, mentoring students, or contributing to institutional governance through the University Council, he remains committed to advancing academic excellence, promoting research, and supporting the University's continued growth. He is passionate about cultivating a learning culture in which every student feels supported, respected, and empowered to achieve their full potential. In his view, the success of students contributes directly to the success of the University and the broader society. Beyond his teaching and research responsibilities, Tayebwa actively engages in policy dialogue, community-based research, and collaborative initiatives that bridge academia with practical development solutions. He values partnerships that promote innovation, knowledge exchange, and sustainable social impact. He is proud to be part of the Victoria University family and remains committed to contributing to the University's mission of transforming lives through excellence in education, research, innovation, and community service. He believes that education is the most powerful tool for transforming lives, strengthening communities, and shaping a better future, a principle that continues to guide his work as an educator, researcher, and academic leader.

Dr. Lawrence Muganga stands as a revolutionary force in global education, merging Ugandan vigor with Canadian innovation to redefine learning landscapes. His illustrious journey, from the academic halls of Makerere University to earning a Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Leadership at the University of Alberta, Canada, underscores his relentless pursuit of excellence. As the visionary Vice Chancellor of Victoria University in Kampala, Dr. Muganga catapulted the institution from obscurity to a towering beacon of academic brilliance, exponentially growing its student body from under 200 to an astounding 6,000 in just three years. He is not just an academic; he is a digital education architect, pioneering the full integration of digital platforms in East African education, setting unprecedented standards in the process. Dr. Muganga is a prolific author, with seminal works like "You Can't Make Fish Climb Trees" and "Authentic University" under his belt, advocating for a seismic shift towards personalized, AI-enhanced learning experiences. His leadership and innovative educational strategies have earned him the prestigious Pan African Revolutionary Education Award, celebrating his commitment to fusing indigenous African knowledge with cutting-edge educational practices. Beyond academia, Dr. Muganga is a global explorer, with insights gleaned from 51 countries enriching his educational philosophy. Dr. Muganga isn't just shaping the future of education; he's inviting us all to be part of a lifelong journey of discovery, growth, and transformation, making his narrative not just inspiring but a compelling call to action for educators and learners worldwide.

Prof. Augustine is a distinguished British academic and a Senior Fellow of the UK Higher Education Academy. With over 26 years of post-graduation experience, his professional journey spans the petroleum industry, water and waste management, and academia. Before joining VU, he led the Civil and Environmental Engineering Cluster at the University of West England, Bristol (UWE). His extensive tenure at Coventry University, spanning over 13 years, saw him rise from Lecturer to Associate Professor in Energy and Environment. There, he was instrumental in developing energy programs that eventually led to the creation of the School of Energy, Construction, and Environment within the Faculty of Engineering. Prof. Augustine's international impact is highlighted by his role as the International Team Lead for the World Bank-funded Albertine Regional Sustainable Development Project in Uganda. He has also contributed to global education as a Link Tutor to Ghana Technology University and as a Visiting Professor at institutions like Kadir Has University, Turkey, and the University of Leeds, UK. His industry involvement includes roles as a Process Design Engineer at Severn Trent Water, where he worked on several multi-million-pound projects, and as a QHSE Consultant with Fugro Consultants. Prof. Augustine has also consulted for multinational oil and gas companies and government bodies across West Africa, the UK, the Middle East, and Brazil. His academic and research interests encompass sustainable energy, environment, water resources, safety, project management, and higher education pedagogy. Prof. Augustine has also served as an external examiner for prestigious UK universities such as Newcastle University, Plymouth University, UWE Bristol, and Heriot-Watt University.

Mrs. M.G. Katusabe-Ssemwezi shines as a linchpin in the realm of higher education governance and management, wielding her expertise as the University Secretary and Secretary to Council at Victoria University. Boasting an impressive tenure of over 30 years in the field, her contribution transcends the mere administrative; Mary has been instrumental in sculpting institutional policies, ensuring their seamless implementation and thorough evaluation. Her leadership extends across the educational landscape, having chaired governing bodies with a deft hand, showcasing her profound grasp on change management, strategic communication, and adept conflict resolution. Mrs. Katusabe-Ssemwezi's seasoned career embodies a legacy of excellence and visionary leadership, positioning her as an invaluable asset to the academic community and a guiding force in steering institutions towards global competitiveness and innovation.

Academic

University Bursar

Ms. Ampaire Juliet, serving both as an esteemed member and an academic staff representative, is the driving force behind the administration at Market Plaza. Her expertise in Leadership and Governance has not only propelled her to the forefront of her field but also cemented her status as a pivotal figure in shaping effective administrative strategies and fostering a culture of excellence. Ms. Ampaire's profound understanding of organizational dynamics and her innovative approach to leadership have significantly contributed to enhancing operational efficiencies and governance structures. Her dedication and vision extend beyond day-to-day management, inspiring both peers and students alike, making her an indispensable asset to her institution and a role model in the academic and administrative community.

Ms. Annet Luyiga serves as the Human Resource Manager at Victoria University, bringing over 10 years of experience in Human Resource Management. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to the belief that people are the most valuable asset of any organization. Her professional journey has been guided by a passion for empowering individuals to grow and succeed. She finds great fulfillment in supporting employees from the beginning of their careers, helping them develop their skills, achieve their goals, and realize their full potential. Being part of that transformative journey continues to inspire her every day. At Victoria University, Annet works closely with a dedicated team to attract, support, and develop talented professionals who are committed to transforming lives through education. She believes that every interaction—whether welcoming a new employee, supporting a colleague through a challenge, or celebrating an individual's achievements—contributes to building a positive and inclusive workplace culture. She is dedicated to fostering an environment where employees feel heard, respected, valued, and empowered. In her view, when people thrive, the University thrives, making employee well-being and professional development central to organizational success. Beyond her responsibilities in Human Resource Management, Annet enjoys connecting with people, learning from diverse experiences, and identifying meaningful ways to enhance the workplace for everyone. She is proud to be part of the Victoria University family and remains enthusiastic about the University's continued impact in transforming lives through quality education. As Maya Angelou wisely observed, "People may forget what you said, but they'll always remember how you made them feel." This quote reflects Annet's people-centered approach to leadership and her commitment to creating lasting, positive experiences for employees and colleagues alike.

Racheal Ayebare is an Advocate of the High Court of Uganda and serves as Relations and Compliance Manager at Victoria University. She holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Uganda Christian University, a Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice from the Law Development Centre, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Victoria University. Racheal brings combined legal and commercial expertise to her role, ensuring institutional operations adhere to applicable laws and sectoral regulations. In her role, Racheal develops and implements institutional policies and procedures, conducts compliance reviews and risk assessments, coordinates regulatory reporting to national authorities, and advises on legal instruments including contracts and MOUs. She leads compliance training and manages remediation plans to address identified compliance gaps, while also overseeing stakeholder relations to ensure that partners, service providers, and collaborators meet the University’s standards of integrity and excellence. Racheal remains dedicated to promoting a culture of transparency, ethical conduct, and legal rigor across the University.

Dr. Justine Nabaggala serves as Quality Assurance Manager at Victoria University, bringing together a rare blend of administrative leadership, academic scholarship, and industry-oriented technical training. Her career sits at the intersection of institutional quality management, competence-based education and training (CBET), program development and management, and creative arts education. This is a combination that reflects both her professional versatility and personal philosophy that every experience “defines and redefines both personal and professional identity.” Dr. Justine’s academic journey spans some of the most respected universities in Uganda and abroad, reflecting a deliberate pursuit of both technical and pedagogical excellence. Her international exposure and specialized training in TVET pedagogy, competence-based training, and enterprise-based learning models gained through partnerships and graduate programs at Oslo Metropolitan University (Norway) and the University of Alberta (Canada) reflect a cross- institutional and cross-continental training path. This has given her a comparative understanding of quality assurance systems, vocational pedagogy, and higher education governance across both Global South and Global North contexts. She has built a career that bridges the administrative and the scholarly, holding roles that require both regulatory rigor and pedagogical insight. Through viewing education as her own multinational, multidisciplinary training path as an evolving process in which every new experience reshapes both the individual and the professional, underpins her leadership to build resilience, inclusiveness and future-ready academic systems.

LADY

Dean of Students

Public Relations Officer

He serves as the Procurement and Facility Officer at Victoria University, overseeing procurement and facility operations across the University's Main Campus and Market Plaza. As a procurement and logistics professional, he is committed to ensuring that the University acquires quality goods, services, and works while maintaining safe, functional, and welcoming learning and working environments. He believes that effective procurement and facility management are essential to the smooth operation of the University, enabling staff and students to excel without disruption. Through efficient procurement processes, timely maintenance, and responsible resource management, he contributes to creating an environment that supports academic excellence and institutional growth. Leading a dedicated team of facility professionals, Kamanzi is passionate about delivering value through integrity, accountability, and operational efficiency. He is committed to strengthening procurement systems, building trusted supplier relationships, and ensuring that every resource entrusted to the University is used effectively in support of its strategic goals. He is proud to be part of the Victoria University family and remains committed to supporting the University's mission of transforming lives through excellence in education, innovation, and service. He believes that effective procurement and facility management provide the foundation for a productive, safe, and thriving learning environment.

Senior Lecturer/ Dean FST

She is the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and a Senior Lecturer at Victoria University, Kampala. She holds a PhD in Peace and Conflict Studies from Makerere University and a bachelor’s degree in education. Her scholarly and leadership work sits at the intersection of higher education, peacebuilding, governance, diplomacy, public policy, gender justice, and human dignity. With over fifteen years of institutional governance experience, Dr. Uwineza has served in senior roles across higher education and development organizations. At Victoria University, she has championed academic innovation, student engagement, and institutional transformation through signature guest lectures, research seminar series, program me-based student meetings, curriculum rebranding, and initiatives that connect students with experts, mentors, researchers and practitioners. Her research focuses on peace and conflict studies, forced migration, diplomacy, governance, human rights, and higher education transformation. She has published scholarly work on city diplomacy, refugee studies, experiential learning, and public policy, and contributes to conversations on leadership, education, equity, and institutional development. Her reflections on gender and women’s empowerment are shaped by an equity-centered and dignity-based philosophy. She advances what she describes as “accommodative feminism”, a rights-respecting approach that expands women’s opportunities while fostering partnership, fairness, shared responsibility, and human dignity across all genders. Beyond academia, Dr. Uwineza serves as the Senate Representative to the University Tribunal and is part of its pioneer committee. She is also the pioneer Chairperson of the Victoria University Staff Cooperative Society, an initiative envisioned to strengthen welfare, solidarity, and economic resilience within the university community. Her leadership philosophy is grounded in a simple conviction: “Great institutions are built when excellence is pursued without compromising human dignity”.

Ms. Sandrah Joyce Mwima is a Public Health Nutritionist and the Head of the Department of Public Health and Nutrition at Victoria University. Through her leadership, she provides strategic academic and administrative oversight in advancing the department's vision and mission. She oversees program me planning, curriculum development and review, quality assurance, accreditation processes, staff mentorship and development, student academic progression, and departmental operations. She champions excellence in teaching, innovation, research, and community engagement, while fostering collaborations with government, academia, industry, and development partners to strengthen public health and nutrition training She is committed to nurturing competent, ethical, and innovative graduates, promoting evidence-informed practice, and advancing public health and nutrition education to address emerging health and nutrition challenges for improvement in population health outcomes in Uganda and other low-resource settings. Her academic and research interests include food security, maternal and adolescent nutrition, childhood undernutrition, and malnutrition in all its forms, with a particular focus on overweight, obesity, and anemia.

Elizabeth Kamahoro is a Registered Nurse, educator, and academic leader with extensive experience in nursing education, clinical practice, health systems management, and leadership. She currently serves as the Head of the Department of Nursing and Midwifery at Victoria University, Kampala, Uganda, where she leads curriculum development, academic quality assurance, student mentorship, and clinical training. She holds a Diploma in General Nursing from Mutolere School of Nursing and Midwifery, a Bachelor of Nursing Science from Uganda Christian University, and a Master of Science in Hospital Management from Uganda Martyrs University. Her professional experience spans clinical nursing, emergency care, nursing administration, and higher education. Elizabeth has a strong interest in nursing leadership, health systems strengthening, quality improvement, maternal and child health, and competency-based nursing education. She has developed and reviewed nursing curricula, supervised undergraduate research, designed competency-based assessments, and contributed to capacity building for nursing and midwifery professionals. She is committed to advancing nursing leadership through research, mentorship, and evidence-based practice. Her current scholarly interests focus on strengthening nursing leadership, promoting gender equity in health systems, and improving healthcare delivery through effective leadership and management.