Victoria University officially inaugurated its University Tribunal at a ceremony held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, marking a significant step in enhancing governance, discipline, and conflict resolution within the institution.
The tribunal members took their Oath of Office before Buganda Road Court Magistrate, His Worship Ronald Kayizzi, who presided over the swearing-in ceremony in his capacity as Commissioner of Oaths.
The event was attended by several distinguished figures, including the University Director and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, University Council members led by Jay Sakaria, senior management, staff representatives, student leaders, and Vice Chancellors from partner universities.
Tribunal to Serve as the First Point of Justice
After administering the oath, Magistrate Kayizzi highlighted the tribunal’s crucial role in the university’s internal justice system. He emphasized that any disputes within the institution must first be brought before the tribunal before seeking redress in national courts.
“From today onward, a case must first be presented before this tribunal. If this step is skipped, the court may dismiss the matter with costs,” Magistrate Kayizzi explained. He further stated that the tribunal will provide a fair, structured, and timely process for resolving both academic and administrative disputes.
Composition of the Tribunal
The newly constituted tribunal includes representatives from key constituencies across the university. The members are:
Mr. Elisha Bafirawala – Chairperson of the Tribunal, a legal expert qualified to serve as a High Court Judge
Ms. Nassuuna Rebecca Irene – Secretary to the Tribunal and advocate
Rt. Hon. Gizamba Calvin – Student Guild Speaker, representing the student body
Dr. Bill Nkeeto – Representative of the academic staff
Mr. Vikrant Jha – Representative of the administrative staff
Dr. Harriet Mimi Uwineza – Representative of the Senate
Dr. Mary Kanyiginya Tizikara – Representative of the University Council
Reinforcing Accountability and Fairness
Vice Chancellor Prof. Lawrence Muganga noted that the establishment of the tribunal strengthens accountability and formalizes dispute-resolution processes within the university. He stated that this development positions Victoria University in alignment with international governance standards.
Prof. Muganga described the tribunal as a vital safeguard for fairness, academic integrity, and institutional discipline, expressing confidence in its ability to deliberate independently and deliver justice effectively.
Guidance from the Chancellor
University Chancellor, Professor John Opuda-Asibo, advised the newly sworn-in tribunal members to ensure proportionality in their judgments, make evidence-based decisions, and maintain a clear right of appeal. He stressed the importance of confidentiality, accessibility, and sensitivity toward vulnerable groups, including individuals with disabilities or language limitations.
He also urged the tribunal to operate within the legal frameworks established by the 1995 Constitution, the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, the University Council Charter, and all institutional policies.
According to Prof. Opuda-Asibo, the tribunal’s mission is to promote justice among students, staff, and administrators while ensuring fair hearings and appropriate disciplinary or corrective actions.
A Pledge to Uphold Integrity
The ceremony concluded with a pledge from the tribunal leadership to uphold integrity, impartiality, and professionalism. Chairperson Mr. Elisha Bafirawala assured the university community that the tribunal will serve as a respected and effective platform for resolving disputes.
