The Principal of Makerere University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Prof. Engineer Bainomugisha, has pledged to prioritise staff welfare, improve working conditions and strengthen college facilities as part of efforts to enhance service delivery.

The commitment followed a meeting with support staff on September 29, during which employees shared their experiences and proposed measures to improve the college’s operations.

Prof. Bainomugisha said the meeting provided an opportunity to engage with the people who contribute to the college’s daily operations and understand how management could better support them.

“The college is made up of its people, and support staff play a vital role in ensuring that our offices, laboratories and other facilities function effectively. My priority is to work together with you to create a conducive working environment,” he said.

He noted that his priorities were aligned with Makerere University’s strategic plan, particularly staff welfare and the provision of an environment that enables employees to perform their duties effectively.

The Principal also emphasised the importance of support staff in advancing the college’s academic mission, especially as the University increasingly focuses on practical teaching and learning.

“We are moving towards more practical teaching and learning, and this requires functional laboratories and adequate support facilities. I am committed to following up on the issues raised, including the shortage of functional computers and the reinstatement of the lift,” he said.

Principal prioritises functional laboratories and accessibility

During the meeting, staff raised the need to repair malfunctioning computers in the college’s laboratories and restore the lift to improve accessibility for people with disabilities.

In response, Prof. Bainomugisha said he was lobbying the University for support to address the shortage of functional computers and would prioritise the matter during the current financial year.

He also confirmed that plans to reinstall the lift were underway, underscoring the importance of accessible facilities within the college.

The proposed improvements are expected to support the college’s efforts to provide an environment conducive to teaching, learning and service delivery, subject to the availability of resources and implementation of the planned interventions.

Management commits to strengthening security and support services

The meeting also addressed opportunities to strengthen security and improve the delivery of support services across the college.

The Chief Custodian, Ms. Hope Nahwera, commended staff for their contribution and encouraged continued cooperation in maintaining the college’s facilities.

“I appreciate the support staff for the work they do to keep the college running. I encourage everyone to continue working together and supporting one another in carrying out our responsibilities,” she said.

Nahwera called for additional night security personnel, noting the need to strengthen security arrangements. Staff also requested security cameras and improved access control to laboratories.

In response, Prof. Bainomugisha said discussions with the Chief Security Officer were ongoing and that commitments had been made regarding security improvements.

He further pledged to raise the shortage of office attendants with the Director of Human Resources to explore ways of addressing staffing gaps affecting support services.

The Chief Custodian also called for additional toiletries and appropriate support for employees involved in cleaning and organising college activities, particularly interviews.

Principal pledges follow-up on infrastructure and internet connectivity

Staff also discussed infrastructure and operational issues, including roof leakages, unreliable internet connectivity and conditions in the college library.

The Principal undertook to write to the Estates Department and follow up on reported roof leakages in several buildings.

On internet connectivity, he reported that he had discussed the matter with Badru and that the Regional Universities Network (RENU) had promised support in November.

Library staff proposed the provision of air conditioning, bag-tagging cards and a security camera to improve the working environment and support library operations.

Other proposals included demarcating parking spaces, providing additional outdoor seating in the college compound and restoring access control to laboratories.

The Principal encouraged staff to continue identifying areas requiring attention, noting that cooperation between management and employees was important in improving college operations.

“I encourage you to continue sharing your views and identifying areas that need attention. By working together, we can address the challenges and improve the working environment at the college,” he said.

Staff welfare and recognition highlighted

Support staff also called for improved motivation, recognition of employees retiring from University service and continued support for staff involved in college activities.

Members further thanked the Principal for providing lunch and requested that the arrangement continue during University holidays, alongside improvements to the meals provided.

The discussions highlighted the importance of staff welfare and recognition in maintaining morale and supporting effective service delivery.

Nahwera reaffirmed her commitment to working with colleagues to ensure that support services continue to contribute to the college’s objectives.

Principal invites continued engagement

In his closing remarks, Prof. Bainomugisha thanked staff for their feedback and invited them to visit his office to share additional concerns and suggestions.

He encouraged employees to work collectively towards addressing operational needs and maintaining a positive working environment during his tenure.

The meeting provided a platform for direct engagement between the college leadership and support staff, with the issues raised expected to inform management’s follow-up priorities.

Story by Jane Anyango

And Viola Kemanzi