CIU Gets New Chancellor

Dr. Galukande Moses

Meet Professor Moses Galukande , the new Chancellor of Clarke International university.

Prof. Galukande has over two decades of leadership experience in health professions education, currently chairs the surgery department at Makerere University, and supervises research projects for Ph.D. and Master’s degree students. He has published numerous scientific papers, conducted over 20,000 surgical procedures, and is a member of several professional bodies. He has also served on various committees, including the Quality Assurance Task Force and the Operationalize Department of Allied Health Sciences. His expertise includes minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopic, endoscopic, and breast surgery.

Tell us about you professor

I have been a medical practitioner for the past 25 years and I am also a professor of surgery, among other roles.

What inspired you to take on the role of chancellor?

Well, I was in the room when the decision to establish a university was made by the founders. Being among the first proponents, we realized the need for health practitioners in delivering healthcare services. We used to employ health workers who required more than just induction. So, when the proposal was made by the founders to take on this role, I was delighted.

What is the major challenge facing higher education in Uganda?

I think the main challenge is that many families want to educate their children, but they lack the necessary resources. Despite the fact that Uganda has some of the cheapest education in the world, I was part of a group that traveled to 5 continents and visited 18 medical schools. We realized that Uganda actually has some of the most affordable schools in the world. However, many families still can’t afford it. Additionally, I recently conducted a survey in medical schools in Uganda and found that 25% of students drop out because they can’t afford the tuition. The institutions rely solely on the tuition fees paid by the students.

What can we do about this challenge?

We can look at what other countries do, such as providing student loans or implementing community insurance. In some communities, people come together and collect money to fund the tuition fees for students in their community. Another challenge for higher institutions of learning is the sharing of human resources. We often share professors and lecturers because it takes a considerable amount of time to study and reach these levels. I believe that is another challenge we need to address.

So CIU just turned 15. At 15, what are some of the achievements so far, and where do you see CIU going?

I have had the privilege of serving as the chair of the council for most of the 15 years, and I must say I have been impressed by CIU’s financial management. Of course, we had a few hiccups when trying to expand quickly, and COVID posed challenges as well. However, we have done well and continue to thrive. It has been an amazing journey. As for the future, our focus is on obtaining a charter. We have more than 3000 graduates, and we are all eagerly looking forward to achieving this milestone and taking CIU to the next level.

What new initiatives do you want to introduce as the new chancellor?

The institution has been doing a good job, and we need to keep growing. An organism needs to keep growing unless it is dying. So, we need to continue growing. In response to the challenges mentioned earlier, we need to explore ways to mobilize finance for students, such as school loan initiatives or involving the government for assistance. Additionally, we need to develop our human resources by encouraging teachers to pursue PHD degrees.

What advice do you have for current and aspiring CIU students?

For students, the university is here for them, and I would encourage them to view it as a training ground. It’s important to be mindful of their peers and take care of them because they will be your network and potential recommenders. Your peers are watching, and their opinions can greatly influence your future opportunities. Therefore, it is important to leave a positive impression on your peers by respecting and impressing them. This can be demonstrated through your work ethic, diligence, and supportiveness.

Any parting words?

I believe it is an exciting time for higher learning worldwide. The education sector is vibrant and in need of many innovations, such as artificial intelligence and remote learning. Let’s embrace these changes. Thank you.