As Dr. Kakembo Frederick concludes his remarkable 10-year tenure as Deputy Vice Chancellor (DVC) of Ndejje University, the institution reflects on his significant contributions that have shaped its growth and enhanced its national and international standing. His leadership, beginning on October 1st, 2014, has been defined by a clear vision of fostering academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement.
Early Leadership Experience
Dr. Kakembo brought a wealth of experience to Ndejje University, having previously served in key leadership roles at Uganda Christian University (UCU). He was Dean of Students from 2000 to 2008, and later Dean of the Research and Graduate School from 2008 to 2013. His background in these roles provided him with a solid foundation to advance Ndejje University’s mission.
Advancing Research and Innovation
Under Dr. Kakembo’s leadership, Ndejje University became a hub for cutting-edge research and development. From the onset of his tenure, he initiated efforts to promote multi-disciplinary research by conducting workshops and seminars aimed at fostering collaboration across various fields. In November 2014, he introduced the concept of entrepreneurial research and projects, encouraging students and faculty to pursue research with a practical and marketable impact.
He was also instrumental in establishing and streamlining the operations of key Research and Development Centers (RDCs) at Ndejje, including the Energy Research and Development Center, Water Research and Development Center, and Agricultural/Environmental Research and Development Center. These centers have become operational under his watch and continue to thrive, contributing to innovations in renewable energy, water management, and sustainable agriculture. The Technology Incubation Center also grew during his leadership, focusing on ICT-based solutions for community challenges.
Driving Income-Generating Projects
One of Dr. Kakembo’s key achievements was the introduction of income-generating projects at the university, which not only helped diversify funding sources but also provided practical learning opportunities for students. Among these projects were:
- The Briquettes Enterprise, which focused on producing eco-friendly fuel from waste materials,
- The Water Laboratory Project, which enhanced the university’s research capabilities in water management,
- Agricultural Commercialization Projects, based at Kakute and Kiyanda, which promoted modern farming practices,
- Livestock Projects, particularly piggery initiatives, that contributed to hands-on learning in agribusiness.
Additionally, Dr. Kakembo initiated and successfully operated Ndejje University Consult LTD, a consultancy firm that linked academic expertise with industry and community needs.
Strengthening Partnerships and Grant Acquisition
In 2015, Dr. Kakembo established the Office in Charge of Grants and Partnerships, which played a critical role in securing funding for research and development. He developed networks with international institutions and agencies, establishing partnerships in countries such as the USA, Canada, Germany, and the UK. His efforts helped ensure that research and innovations at Ndejje University were effectively integrated into the surrounding communities.
Dr. Kakembo was also proactive in forging partnerships with the public and private sectors, promoting collaboration on community outreach programs. Notable among these was the university’s collaboration with Technology Without Borders, a German-based organization, as well as partnerships with local institutions such as Mityana Diocese and Nakaseke District.
Promoting Quality Assurance and Academic Excellence
One of Dr. Kakembo’s lasting legacies at Ndejje University is his commitment to enhancing Quality Assurance (QA) across all academic and administrative units. Under his leadership, the QA department was elevated to a Directorate, with the appointment of additional officers and the establishment of robust management structures. His efforts culminated in Ndejje University being recognized as a benchmark for other universities in Uganda and East Africa, with NDU holding the Presidency of Quality Assurance Networks in both regions for over four years.
Dr. Kakembo’s focus on academic excellence was also demonstrated in his efforts to integrate research activities into the Graduate School, which he restructured for improved performance. He was instrumental in inaugurating the first PhD program at Ndejje, ensuring that the inaugural cohort graduated within three years, an achievement unique in Uganda.
National and Global Recognition
Dr. Kakembo’s leadership enhanced Ndejje University’s visibility both nationally and globally. In 2016 and 2017, the university was ranked 2nd in Uganda and 43rd in Africa by the University Webometrics Ranking, a reflection of its growing reputation for excellence. Ndejje also gained recognition for its renewable energy projects, which contributed to winning four environmental awards, including two from the USA, one from Germany, and one from Uganda’s National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
In 2017, Dr. Kakembo convened Ndejje University’s first International Scientific Conference on Biowaste Recycling, which brought together over 66 presentations from across Africa, further cementing Ndejje’s role as a leader in sustainable development.
Resource Mobilization and Infrastructure Development
Dr. Kakembo successfully mobilized resources to develop state-of-the-art facilities at Ndejje University. He secured funding from Christian Services International (CSI) and GIZ, which contributed to the establishment of the Renewable Energy Laboratory and the Water Laboratory. Through his efforts, Ndejje acquired over 70 ICT devices from Utah Valley University, further enhancing the university’s capacity for online learning and digital education.
Building a Resilient University During COVID-19
Perhaps one of the most critical challenges during Dr. Kakembo’s tenure was navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. His foresight in establishing the Directorate of ICT ensured that Ndejje University was well-prepared to transition to online learning during the pandemic. This move allowed the university to continue teaching remotely, maintaining academic continuity during a difficult global crisis.
A Legacy of Leadership
Dr. Kakembo Frederick’s decade-long tenure as Deputy Vice Chancellor at Ndejje University leaves behind a legacy of academic innovation, infrastructural growth, and enhanced research capacity. His leadership has positioned Ndejje University as a leading institution in Uganda, one that is deeply committed to community engagement, academic excellence, and sustainable development.
As Dr. Mary N. Mutyaba Wanda takes over as Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor, she inherits a university that has been significantly shaped by Dr. Kakembo’s vision and leadership. His contributions will continue to resonate in the years to come, as Ndejje University builds on the solid foundation he has laid.
