By Julius Mugaga Tukacungurwa/Umoja Standard.
Kampala, Uganda: During his farewell speech, Dr. Wokadala reflected on his five-year tenure, highlighting significant milestones and challenges overcome. He noted tremendous progress in reviewing and introducing new academic programs, including the Master of Science in Quantitative Economics and PhD in Population Studies.
Dr. Wokadala emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships and collaborations, citing notable alliances with organizations such as Prudential Assurance Uganda, World Bank, and various international universities. However, he acknowledged areas requiring attention, including the need to address concerns surrounding the school’s structure and staffing.
Incoming Dean Dr. Margaret Banga pledged to foster collaboration, teamwork, and excellence in her tenure. She emphasized unity and teamwork, stressing that individual efforts alone cannot propel the school forward. Dr. Banga’s vision includes building on existing partnerships and supporting assistant lecturers pursuing PhDs.
Staff development and student welfare are key areas of focus for Dr. Banga. She vowed to prioritize student welfare, embracing her role as a “mother” to students while acknowledging limitations. Professor Edward Bbale, Principal of Makerere University College of Business and Management Studies, congratulated Dr. Banga on her appointment.
Professor Bbale praised outgoing Dean Dr. Wokadala for his dedication and peaceful transition. “Handing over office peacefully is not easy,” he noted. “It’s a big deal, a day to celebrate and thank God.” Luwaliza Aggrey, Internal Auditor, praised Dr. Wokadala’s tenure, highlighting the audit report’s clean slate.
Mr. Patrick Mutebi, Human Resource Manager, congratulated Dr. Banga on her appointment, emphasizing human resource management and the need to support assistant lecturers’ career growth. Makerere University’s School of Statistics and Planning was established in 1969 to provide high-level training in statistics and applied economics.
After five years under Dr. Wokadala’s leadership, the school welcomes a new era with Dr. Banga at the helm. With its rich history and strong academic foundation, the School of Statistics and Planning is poised for continued growth and excellence under Dr. Banga’s leadership.
Dr. Banga takes on the responsibility of advancing the school’s mission to produce skilled professionals in statistics and applied economics. The school comprises three departments: Planning and Applied Statistics, Population Studies, and Statistical Methods and Actuarial Science.
As Dr. Banga begins her tenure, expectations are high for continued growth and excellence. The school’s staff and students look forward to her leadership, and the university community is optimistic about the school’s future prospects.
The handover ceremony marked a significant milestone in the school’s history, celebrating Dr. Wokadala’s achievements and welcoming Dr. Banga’s new leadership. With its strong foundation and commitment to excellence, Makerere University’s School of Statistics and Planning is set to address the evolving needs of Uganda and the region.
Under Dr. Banga’s leadership, the school will continue to focus on graduate training, research, and community engagement. The school’s partnerships with organizations will remain crucial in addressing emerging trends and challenges.
As the school embarks on this new chapter, it is clear that Dr. Banga’s vision and leadership will propel it forward. The Makerere University community looks forward to her achievements and the school’s continued growth.
The handover ceremony marked the beginning of a new era for Makerere University’s School of Statistics. With Dr. Margaret Banga at the helm, the school is poised for continued excellence and growth, addressing the needs of Uganda and the region.