A section of Board members keenly following the discussions during the debate.
The highly anticipated Dean’s Big Debate concluded yesterday 28th February 2024, preparing the ground for the Dean’s elections that are slated to take place on Friday 1st March, 2024. The event, which was organized for the School of Medicine and the School of Arts and Social Sciences, was held at the Senate boardroom. This debate garnered significant attention, showcasing a remarkable display of leadership and vision for the future of MMUST.
The Chairman of the Dean’s Election Board, Prof. Edwin Wamukoya presided over the Big Debate, moderating the discussions and presentations by candidates. He appealed for calm and decorum during the election period, urging all stakeholders to uphold the values of fairness and integrity that underpin the electoral process.
“As a Board, we are satisfied that during this debate the candidates have interacted directly with the voters and shared their visions for the School of Medicine and the School of Arts and Social Sciences,” said Prof. Wamukoya.
The Dean’s Big debate in progress at the Senate boardroom.
The Board members present played a crucial role in ensuring a fair and orderly debate among the candidates. This brought forth a constructive and informative discussion that will allow the voters to make informed decisions about the candidates. The Board members included Prof. Judah Ndiku, Dr. Peter Cherop, Dr. Roselyne Abwalaba and Dr. Teresa Okoth.
The debate featured two prominent candidates vying for the Deanship position in the School of Medicine; Dr. Donald Kokonya and Dr. Anthony Sifuna. The incumbent, Dr. Donald Kokonya, defended his record for re-election, while Dr. Anthony Sifuna, Chairperson of the Department of Medical Biochemistry in the School of Medicine, presented his compelling manifesto.
Dr. Donald Kokonya (right), defending his record for re-election; (left) Dr. Anthony Sifuna, Chairperson of the Department of Medical Biochemistry both contesting for Deanship position in the School of Medicine.
Dr. Sifuna, renowned for his expertise in antimicrobial research and stewardship, articulated a vision of diligent and supportive leadership for the School of Medicine, promising to advance its academic and research agenda.
“I will promote and strengthen research and outreach activities in the School. I will strive to strengthen our links with the teaching hospital and explore opportunities for setting up classrooms and staff offices,” pledged Dr. Sifuna.
Dr. Anthony Sifuna, the CoD- Medical Biochemistry and candidate contesting for Deanship position in the School of Medicine taking notes during the event.
On the other hand, Dr. Kokonya showcased how he has steered the School of Medicine to its current status, including issues of accreditation, recruitment of requisite staff and acquisition of critical resources. “The School of Medicine is very unique. Let us grow it and speak well of it,” he stated.
Dr. Donald Kokonya, one of the candidates contesting for the Deanship position in the School of Medicine.
Drawing on their experiences in academia and industry, the two emphasized the importance of partnerships both locally and internationally, and leveraging the state-of-art technologies to drive the School to excellence.
Dr. Rose Auma, the Dean School of Arts and Social Sciences, who is running unopposed, reaffirmed her commitment to continue the impactful work she initiated since 2022. She championed the development of proposals, enhanced research and interdisciplinary collaborations, as well as student empowerment; all to enhance the positive trajectory of the School.
“I will continue collaborating with other Universities and industry practitioners to ensure that staff and students have access to meaningful research opportunities, as well as staff and student exchange,” said Dr. Auma.
Dr. Rose Auma, the Dean School of Arts and Social Sciences during the Dean’s Big Debate.
It is worth noting that the event brought together supporters and curious individuals to witness the clash of ideas and visions for the future of the Schools and the University. Throughout the debate, issues ranging from research, staff-student welfare and development to collaborations, prompted lively exchanges and thoughtful deliberations among the candidates. As it came to a close, supporters from both camps expressed confidence in their respective candidates’ ability to lead and inspire positive change within the Schools and the University in general.
One of the supporters making his contribution during the Q&A session.
The Dean’s debate marks a key step in our academic journey as a University. With the conclusion of the Dean’s debate, all eyes are now turned towards the upcoming election, where the fate of the candidates from the respective Schools will be decided. We extend our gratitude and well wishes to all candidates and eagerly anticipate the realization of their pledges into actionable initiatives that will benefit our academic community.
Voting will take place on 1st March 2024, at the Main Catering Unit (MCU 002) from 8.30am to 12.30pm.
By Dr. Lydia Anyonje and Caren Nekesa
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
