By Julius Mugaga Tukacungurwa/ Umoja Standard.
Kampala, Uganda: Makerere University has acquired three brand-new Isuzu buses, valued at UGX 625 million each, to improve student and staff mobility. The buses, which were procured through funding from the Parliament of Uganda, are part of the university’s efforts to enhance the learning experience and research activities.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Professor Nawangwe, emphasized the importance of reliable transportation in facilitating academic activities. “Buses are not just a means of transport, but also an essential tool for teaching and research,” he noted. “Our students need to travel to various locations for practicals, research, and community outreach programs, and these buses will provide them with safe and reliable transportation.”
(L-R) Prof. Norbert Frank Mwine, Principal CoVAB 2nd,Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, VC Makerere University & Harriet Musinguzi, Principal Communications Officer CoVAB pose for a photo on CoVAB bus.
The three buses will be allocated to the College of Health Sciences, the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, and the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. The principals of these colleges expressed their gratitude to the government and the university management for providing them with modern transportation.
Professor Bruce Kirenga, Principal of the College of Health Sciences, noted that the bus will enable students to travel to teaching hospitals and community health centers, which are essential for their training. Professor Norbert Frank Mwine, Principal of the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, highlighted the importance of the bus in facilitating student travel to national parks and farms for practical training.
Professor Gorettie N. Nabanoga, Principal of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, emphasized the role of the bus in enhancing the college’s outreach programs and community engagement activities. “The bus will enable us to reach out to farmers, entrepreneurs, and communities, and provide them with expertise and support,” she noted.
The Transport Officer of Makerere University, Tony Ssenyange, highlighted the features of the new buses, which include a 7.8-liter turbocharged engine, 67 seats, and modern safety features.
The acquisition of the three buses is part of Makerere University’s efforts to improve its infrastructure and services. The university has also established a one-stop center for students with disabilities, which provides them with access to various services and support.
In his remarks, Professor Nawangwe thanked the Parliament of Uganda for providing funding for the buses and acknowledged the efforts of the university’s management team, particularly the University Secretary and the Deputy Vice Chancellors, in facilitating the procurement process.
The handover ceremony was attended by university officials and college principals.The buses are expected to commence operations immediately, providing students and staff with safe and reliable transportation.