Prof. Yunus Mgaya, the former deputy vice chancellor in charge of planning, finance, and administration at the University of Dar es Salaam, has been installed as the fourth chancellor of Kampala International University (KIU) on June 14, 2023.
Mgaya replaces Prof. Mahmood Mamdani a few days before the institution’s graduation ceremony, slated for Saturday, June 17th, 2023.
In his inauguration speech, Mgaya expressed appreciation for the opportunities and acknowledged the challenges faced by the universities in Uganda.
“There is a need for everyone involved in the institution, from the senate to the vice chancellor and members of the academic and administrative staff, to work together to overcome any and all challenges,” Mgaya said.
Mgaya thanked the university management for entrusting him with the role, pledging to promote the latest innovation in science and technology at the institution.
Prof. Mohammad Mpezamihigo, the university’s vice chancellor, said Mgaya played a critical role in creating a peaceful and harmonious environment during his previous role at the University of Dar es Salaam and hopes the same for KIU.
“The university is now set to work with him in his new capacity as chancellor in fostering an inclusive and diverse academic environment,’’ Mpezamihigo said.
Mpezamihigo said that Mgaya’s vast experience will help change Kampala International University in terms of innovation and research.
Prof. Yunus Mgaya is Tanzanian and was born in 1957. He studied at the University of Dar es Salaam, the University of British Columbia, and the University College Galway in Ireland.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology and Marine Biology, and his research has focused mainly on coral reef fisheries, biology and management of invertebrate fisheries, as well as aquaculture of different species.
