The College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) held a two-day retreat at the Hilton Garden on February 7-8, 2025, to discuss academic and financial matters. The retreat focused on accreditation, semester results, budget planning, and improving resource management within the college.
During the Academic Board meeting, discussions centered on the accreditation status of CHUSS academic programs and a review of Semester 1 results for the 2024/2025 academic year. Principal Associate Professor Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala congratulated recently promoted staff and commended deans, heads of departments, and registrars for successfully preparing for the upcoming graduation ceremony.
“I appreciate the effort put in to ensure a smooth academic process and pledge to hold a special meeting with registrars to recognize their work,” Nkabala stated. She also lauded the college management for conducting field activities that expose students to practical experiences.
The retreat’s second day focused on financial matters, with the College Finance Committee reviewing the 2024/2025 budget. The discussion aimed to enhance transparency and ensure efficient resource utilization. Nkabala urged participants to be realistic in their financial planning.
“Let us be candid about the challenges we face and ensure timely accountability,” she emphasized.
Key financial stakeholders, including the Head of the Examination Unit in the Finance Department, George Lusiba, and College Bursar Michael Mbaine, guided staff on requisitions, tax regulations, and accountability procedures.
In her closing remarks, Nkabala underscored the importance of such retreats in fostering reflection and strategic planning. “This space allows us to focus on how to improve our work. It is not a waste of resources but an investment in efficiency,” she stated.
The retreat also addressed research initiatives, staff welfare, and the improvement of learning facilities. CHUSS leadership urged departments to submit research themes aligned with their mandates and emphasized the need for faculty members to engage in mentorship and student support programs.
Mr. Lusiba George was recognized for his leadership and dedication to fostering a consultative approach within the collegiate system. Attendees acknowledged the importance of governance practices that promote dialogue and collaboration.
Mr. Lusiba emphasized the significance of discussions on financial management and efficiency in service delivery. He highlighted the role of the Examination and Quality Assurance unit within the Finance Department, which he heads, explaining its responsibility in reviewing and verifying payments and accountabilities to ensure compliance with regulations such as the Public Finance Management Act and the Income Tax Act.
He elaborated on the verification processes followed in his section, detailing a two-tier review system designed to maintain accuracy and transparency. He also addressed challenges in payment processing, including common errors in requisitions and the importance of adhering to stipulated financial guidelines. He assured participants that his team is committed to processing payments efficiently, within 24 hours where possible, and that any delays often result from incomplete or non-compliant documentation.
Mr. Lusiba clarified that per diems are paid per night and must align with established rates. He emphasized that international travel per diems apply only when full sponsorship is not provided and do not apply to government funds, though projects may have separate provisions. He reiterated the need for adherence to regulations to avoid delays and ensure smooth financial transactions.
The session concluded with a call for continuous engagement and feedback to improve processes, with Mr. Lusiba reaffirming his department’s commitment to accountability and service efficiency.