KAMPALA, UGANDA — Dr. Joseph Biribonwa has been appointed Chairman of the Victoria University Council, effective December 1, 2024. Biribonwa, who previously served as Vice Chairman of the council, replaces the late Mr. Joram Kahenano, who passed away in early November.
Dr. Joseph N. Biribonwa is a respected figure with over 40 years of professional experience in democracy and governance, management, administration, finance, and corporate governance. His tenure at the Electoral Commission was marked by efforts to enhance transparency and efficiency in Uganda’s electoral processes. With a doctorate in a relevant field, Biribonwa has contributed significantly to the discourse on democracy and governance through various platforms.
The Victoria University Council consists of esteemed members, including Dr. Consolata Kabonesa, Associate Professor at the School of Women and Gender Studies, Makerere University, with over 25 years of experience in gender analysis, research, and training. Andrew Mwenda, a Ugandan journalist and founder of The Independent magazine, recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, is also a member. Mr. Rajiv Ruparelia, a distinguished graduate of Regents College London, with expertise in business management and marketing, is another notable member.
Other members include Mr. James Kalebbo, celebrated for his 32-year tenure at the Uganda Management Institute (UMI), with a commitment to meritocracy and quality education. Mr. Jay Sakaria, an Actuary with the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries in the UK (FIA), contributes specialized expertise in reserving, capital modeling, and business planning. Dr. Kanyiginya Mary Tizikara, an expert in Human Resource Management and Development, with over 20 years of administrative and HR experience in higher education, is also a member.
The council also includes Mr. Sameer Thakkar, a distinguished member of the professional community, with expertise in finance and audit, and a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. Mr. Ssemambo Rashid, a distinguished Advocate with 13 years of experience in private legal practice, financial management, and international transactions, is another member. Dr. Muganga Lawrence, the visionary Vice Chancellor of Victoria University, with a Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Leadership from the University of Alberta, Canada, is also a member.
Mrs. M. G. Katusabe-Ssemwezi, the seasoned University Secretary and Secretary to Council, with over 30 years of experience in higher education governance and management, is a key member of the council. Emmanuel Kintu, the 7th Guild President of Victoria University, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing Science, with a commitment to providing affordable and high-quality healthcare, is the student representative on the council. Ms. Amanya Barbara Lynne, a distinguished academic with a bachelor’s degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, an MBA in International Business, and a Ph.D. in Management, is also a member.
As Chairman, Biribonwa will oversee the university’s administration and implementation of its objectives. The University Council is the highest governing body of the university, responsible for directing administrative, financial, and academic affairs.
Victoria University, located in Kampala, Uganda, is a modern university that offers a contemporary approach to learning. Established in August 2013, the university has made significant strides in providing high-quality education, with a focus on practical and hands-on learning experiences.
