In a momentous handover ceremony on Friday, November 8, 2024, Dr. James Wokadala, the outgoing Dean of the School of Statistics at Makerere University, officially transferred the mantle of leadership to his successor, Dr. Margaret Banga. This transition marks not only the end of a progressive five-year tenure by Dr. Wokadala but also the dawn of a promising new chapter under Dr. Banga’s stewardship.
Reflecting on his tenure from 2019 to 2024, Dr. Wokadala proudly recounted significant strides made in academic programming and graduate training. “We have made tremendous progress in reviewing and introducing new academic programs, including the Master of Science in Quantitative Economics and PhD in Population Studies,” he shared. His focus on graduate training has indeed paid off, with an increase in the number of master’s graduates—a testament to the school’s commitment to advancing statistical and quantitative expertise.
Dr. Wokadala also highlighted the school’s success in building partnerships with key organizations such as Prudential Assurance Uganda, the World Bank, and esteemed international universities. Yet he acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly in staff development and school structure. “We must incentivize our staff to move up the career ladder,” he urged, emphasizing the importance of nurturing talent to secure the school’s future growth.
As he bid farewell, Dr. Wokadala expressed deep gratitude to Makerere University’s management, staff, and student leaders for their invaluable support throughout his tenure. He assured Dr. Banga of his continued support and stressed the importance of fostering research, community engagement, and academic innovation as she steps into her new role.
In her address, Dr. Banga, the newly appointed Dean, conveyed a vision centered on collaboration, teamwork, and excellence. She expressed appreciation for Dr. Wokadala’s dedication and pledged to build on his legacy. “I request that we all work together,” she urged. “We cannot move the School of Statistics forward if we are divided.” Dr. Banga committed to strengthening relationships with key collaborators, including ISTAC and the World Bank, as well as exploring new partnerships.
Dr. Banga’s priorities also include the professional development of staff, particularly assistant lecturers working towards PhDs. She acknowledged the unique challenges they face in balancing teaching responsibilities with research and pledged her support to ease their path. “I will work with them, identify areas needing help, and seek support from college management,” she promised.
As she takes the helm, Dr. Banga has also committed to supporting student welfare, aiming to be a “mother” figure as advised by her predecessor. “I’ll work with students where I can, and when necessary, involve the ‘father’—the principal,” she remarked with a smile.
The ceremony saw congratulatory remarks from various university leaders, each reflecting on Dr. Wokadala’s achievements and extending warm wishes to Dr. Banga. Professor Edward Bbaale, Principal of the College of Business and Management Studies (CoBAMS), commended Dr. Wokadala for a seamless transition and praised his leadership as a model for future deans. “Handing over office peacefully is not easy; it’s a big deal, a day to celebrate and thank God,” he said. Prof. Bbaale emphasized the crucial role of deans as academic and research leaders and encouraged Dr. Banga to carry forward the school’s legacy of excellence.
Luwaliza Aggrey, the university’s Internal Auditor, praised the school’s clean financial record during Dr. Wokadala’s tenure, attributing it to transparent and accountable management. “We pray for a conducive environment to move forward,” he said, underscoring the importance of continuity.
Dr. Wokadala will now take on the role of Deputy Principal at CoBAMS, where he is expected to continue contributing to the university’s vision and mission.
As Dr. Banga embarks on her journey as Dean, her commitment to unity, collaboration, and academic excellence bodes well for the future of the School of Statistics. With the foundation laid by Dr. Wokadala and the support of faculty, students, and university leaders, she stands poised to lead the school to new heights.