By Caroline. N.
The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) has called on all chartered universities across the country to strictly adhere to established governance guidelines, emphasising that strong institutional governance is key to maintaining academic integrity and fostering sustainable growth.
During a stakeholder meeting held on Monday, NCHE officials highlighted the importance of compliance with governance frameworks, which include clear leadership structures, transparent decision-making processes, and accountability mechanisms. The council stressed that adherence to these guidelines ensures that universities operate efficiently, attract funding, and provide quality education that meets both national and international standards.
“We urge all our chartered universities to internalise and practice the governance guidelines provided by NCHE. These guidelines are not merely bureaucratic requirements; they are vital for the credibility, sustainability, and overall reputation of institutions of higher learning,” said Dr. Josephine Nabaasa, the Executive Director of NCHE.
NCHE also noted that governance lapses in some universities have led to administrative inefficiencies, financial mismanagement, and reduced public confidence in higher education institutions. The council warned that continuous non-compliance could lead to corrective measures, including suspension of accreditation or withdrawal of charters.
To support universities in this endeavour, NCHE has introduced training programs and capacity-building workshops aimed at university leadership and management teams. These initiatives focus on financial oversight, strategic planning, academic quality assurance, and ethical leadership.
“The higher education landscape in Uganda is rapidly evolving. To remain competitive, universities must uphold strong governance practices. This not only safeguards students’ interests but also strengthens research outputs and enhances the institutional reputation both locally and internationally,” Dr. Nabaasa added.
Several university leaders present at the meeting expressed commitment to aligning their operations with the council’s guidelines. They highlighted that good governance practices are essential in promoting transparency, attracting investment, and ensuring that students receive education of the highest quality.
NCHE also encouraged universities to establish independent audit committees, enhance stakeholder participation in decision-making, and adopt modern management information systems. These measures, the council noted, will help institutions track performance, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance with statutory and ethical standards.
With over 50 chartered universities operating in Uganda, the council’s directive is timely, especially as the sector faces increased scrutiny from both local regulators and international accreditation bodies. Upholding governance guidelines, according to NCHE, is critical in fostering a culture of accountability and excellence in Uganda’s higher education sector.