KAMPALA, UGANDA — The College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) at Makerere University held its inaugural non-academic staff retreat on Dec. 7-8, 2024, at the Grand Global Hotel in Kikoni, a Kampala suburb.
The two-day event brought together administrative and support staff to focus on customer care, quality assurance, professional work ethics, and human resource management.
Assoc. Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, Principal of CHUSS, emphasized the importance of teamwork and individual responsibility in achieving the university’s strategic goals.
“We are here to learn, dialogue, and strategize together to improve our services in line with the university’s strategic direction. It starts with us,” Nkabala said.
The retreat featured presentations from various experts, including Deus Tayari Mujuni, Chief Human Resource Officer, who detailed the university’s revised HR policies.
Prof. Sylvia Antonia Nanyonga Nakimera Tamusuza, Chair of the CHUSS Quality Assurance Committee, stressed the importance of quality assurance in enhancing service delivery and improving the university’s reputation.
Dr. Dickson Kanakulya, Head of the Department of Philosophy, discussed the importance of work ethics and professionalism in creating a productive and harmonious work environment.
Dr. Gilbert Gumoshabe, Head of the Department of African Languages, presented on customer care, emphasizing the need for staff to attend to clients diligently and maintain a positive attitude.
The retreat also included interactive sessions, team-building exercises, and role-plays, which provided staff with practical tools to improve their performance and contribute to the university’s success.
Participants expressed gratitude for the retreat and praised its relevance to their roles.
“This retreat was a first of its kind for us as non-teaching staff. Many times, we hear of workshops for academic staff, but this time we felt seen and valued,” said Sunday Seezi, Chief Custodian.
Rebecca Talikaza, a custodian, added: “We are indeed happy to be included in such an event. The presentations were rejuvenating, and I believe everyone who attended has a changed mindset.”
The retreat underscored the critical role of non-academic staff in achieving Makerere University’s vision as a global knowledge hub.
The event concluded with a collective commitment to apply the insights gained, ensuring that CHUSS remains a model of excellence within Makerere University.
Discussion about this post