Victoria University Launches Internal Tribunal to Strengthen Governance and Justice.

15 November 2025, 2:58 pm

By Annet Nakato.

0pVictoria University has inaugurated its first-ever University Tribunal in a ceremony held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, marking a significant milestone in advancing institutional governance, discipline, and conflict resolution.

The tribunal members took their Oath of Office before Buganda Road Court Magistrate, His Worship Ronald Kayizzi, who presided over the swearing-in as Commissioner of Oaths.

The event attracted key stakeholders, including the University Director and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, University Council representatives led by Jay Sakaria, senior administrators, staff leaders, student representatives, and Vice Chancellors from partner institutions.

Tribunal Becomes First Point of JusticeMagistrate Kayizzi underscored the tribunal’s authority as the primary forum for handling disputes within the university.

He emphasized that all internal cases must first be heard by the tribunal before parties can consider pursuing litigation in national courts.“From today onward, a case must first be presented before this tribunal.

Skipping this step can result in a court dismissing the matter with costs,” he cautioned. He affirmed that the structure will ensure fair, timely, and transparent resolution of academic and administrative disputes.

Composition of the TribunalThe newly formed tribunal comprises representatives from key sectors of the university community:Mr. Elisha Bafirawala – Chairperson, a legal expert qualified to serve as a High Court JudgeMs. Nassuuna Rebecca Irene – Secretary and advocateRt.

Hon. Gizamba Calvin – Student Guild Speaker, representing studentsDr. Bill Nkeeto – Representative of academic staffMr. Vikrant Jha – Representative of administrative staffDr. Harriet Mimi Uwineza – Representative of the SenateDr. Mary Kanyiginya Tizikara – Representative of the University CouncilVice Chancellor Prof. Lawrence Muganga said the tribunal’s establishment reinforces accountability and aligns Victoria University with global models of institutional governance.

He described it as a crucial mechanism for safeguarding fairness, upholding academic integrity, and ensuring discipline.

Guidance from the ChancellorChancellor Prof. John Opuda-Asibo urged the tribunal members to deliver proportional and evidence-based judgments while maintaining confidentiality and ensuring accessibility particularly for vulnerable members of the university community, including persons with disabilities or language barriers.

He reminded the tribunal to operate within key legal and policy frameworks, including the 1995 Constitution, the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, and the University Council Charter.According to Prof. Opuda-Asibo, the tribunal’s mission is to foster justice among students, staff, and administrators through fair hearings and appropriate disciplinary or corrective measures.

The ceremony concluded with a commitment from the tribunal leadership to serve with integrity and impartiality. Chairperson Mr. Elisha Bafirawala pledged that the tribunal will provide a trusted and effective avenue for dispute resolution within the university.