By Jumah Kakomo
Victoria University has launched its Strategic Plan 2025/2026–2029/2030 and inaugurated its first-ever University Tribunal—two landmark milestones aimed at strengthening governance and elevating service delivery.
The new Strategic Plan charts a bold and transformative roadmap that positions Victoria University as a world-class institution of higher learning. Rooted in innovation, inclusiveness, and technology-driven teaching, the plan envisions an institution that not only transforms lives but also influences policy, industry, and communities through cutting-edge research and collaboration.
Speaking during the launch and tribunal inauguration ceremony at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala on Friday, Vice Chancellor Dr. Lawrence Muganga described the plan as more than a strategic document—it is a call to reimagine what African education can become in an era defined by rapid disruptions.
“At Victoria University, we are embracing the future with boldness and purpose,” Dr. Muganga said. “From our lecture halls to our innovation labs, we are embedding artificial intelligence, work-integrated learning, and human-centered values into every aspect of teaching, research, and community engagement.”
He emphasized that the University is building an ecosystem where learners graduate not only with degrees, but as competent, ethical, globally competitive innovators prepared to lead change.
“With this plan, we will harness AI to personalize learning, enhance student services, drive administrative efficiency, and power real-world solutions across industries. This is our time to lead with courage, with data, and with conviction,” he added.
Council Chairperson Dr. Joseph Biribonwa noted that the Strategic Plan reflects the vision, passion, and transformative ambition of the institution.
“This plan positions our university to be a leader in education not just in Uganda, but globally,” he said. He added that the University Council remains committed to offering governance, oversight, and strategic direction that match the evolving needs of learners, industry, and society.
Inauguration of the University Tribunal
Alongside the strategic plan launch, Victoria University also officially inaugurated its first University Tribunal—an important step toward strengthening institutional governance, discipline, and conflict resolution.
Tribunal members took the Oath of Office before His Worship Ronald Kayizzi, a Buganda Road Court Magistrate, who presided over the ceremony in his capacity as Commissioner of Oaths.
The event drew high-profile attendees, including University Director and Chairman of the Board, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia; members of the University Council led by Jay Sakaria; senior management; staff representatives; student leaders; and Vice Chancellors from partner universities.
*Tribunal to Serve as the First Point of Justice*
After administering the oath, Magistrate Kayizzi underscored the tribunal’s central role in the university’s internal justice system. He stressed that all disputes arising within the institution must first be presented before the tribunal before parties seek redress from national courts.
“From today onwards, every case must first come before this tribunal. Skipping this step may result in a court dismissing the matter with costs,” he warned. He added that the tribunal provides a fair, structured, and timely platform for resolving academic and administrative disputes.
Composition of the Tribunal
The tribunal brings together representatives from across the university community, including legal professionals, academic leaders, administrators, and student representatives. Members include:
Mr. Elisha Bafirawala – Chairperson, a legal expert qualified to serve as a High Court Judge, Ms. Nassuuna Rebecca Irene – Secretary to the Tribunal, Advocate, Rt. Hon. Gizamba Calvin – Student Guild Speaker, representing students, Dr. Bill Nkeeto – Representative of academic staff, Mr. Vikrant Jha – Representative of administrative staff, Dr. Harriet Mimi Uwineza – Representative of Senate, Dr. Mary Kanyiginya Tizikara – Representative of University Council
Vice Chancellor Prof. Lawrence Muganga said the tribunal formalizes the university’s dispute-resolution process and aligns Victoria University with international governance standards. He described it as a vital safeguard for fairness, academic integrity, and institutional discipline.
University Chancellor Prof. John Opuda-Asibo advised the tribunal members to ensure proportional judgments, evidence-based decisions, confidentiality, and respect for the right of appeal. He emphasized sensitivity toward vulnerable groups, including individuals with disabilities or language limitations, and encouraged adherence to legal frameworks such as the 1995 Constitution, the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, the University Council Charter, and all institutional policies.
According to him, the tribunal’s mission is to promote justice among students, staff, and administrators while ensuring fair hearings and appropriate disciplinary or corrective measures.
Executive Director of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum, Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo, urged the University leadership to prioritize the tribunal as a key avenue for amicably resolving disputes.
Tribunal Chairperson Mr. Elisha Bafirawala assured the university community that the tribunal will serve as a respected, impartial, and effective platform for dispute resolution.
