UgandaToday: UTAMU Appoints Dr Smith Kiiza as University Secretary Amid Governance Reform and Global Expansion Drive
The Universal Technology and Management University (UTAMU) has appointed Dr Smith Kiiza, a senior lecturer in law, as its new University Secretary, in a move aimed at strengthening institutional governance and supporting the university’s expanding academic and international ambitions.
Dr Kiiza’s appointment comes at a time when universities globally are facing mounting pressure to modernise administrative systems, enhance regulatory compliance, and respond to growing demand for interdisciplinary and internationally competitive programmes.
Speaking publicly for the first time since assuming office, Dr Kiiza underscored the centrality of the University Secretary’s role in ensuring institutional stability, accountability and public trust.
“Universities operate on trust — trust from students, staff, regulators and partners. That trust is built through clear governance, reliable systems and respect for institutional rules,” he said.
Governance at the centre
The Office of the University Secretary traditionally oversees a university’s governing organs, statutory compliance, and custody of institutional records. At UTAMU, Dr Kiiza is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening coordination between the University Council and management, while ensuring strict adherence to the University Charter and regulatory frameworks.
Higher education analysts note that such positions have become increasingly strategic, particularly as universities expand online learning, cross-border collaborations and multi-campus operations.
“Governance is no longer a back-office function,” observed a regional higher education expert. “It directly shapes institutional credibility and how universities are perceived internationally.”
Focus on growth and academic appeal
UTAMU has identified increased student enrolment as a key strategic priority in the coming months, with renewed emphasis on improving the visibility, structure and coherence of its academic offerings.
Dr Kiiza said the institution was working to ensure that growth is underpinned by robust systems that safeguard academic quality.
“Sustainable growth depends on order, clarity and quality. Students are more likely to choose institutions that demonstrate coherence and credibility,” he noted.
Dual degrees and interdisciplinary learning
Among the academic initiatives under development is the introduction of dual degree programmes, which would enable students to graduate with qualifications in two complementary disciplines.
Such programmes are gaining traction globally as employers increasingly seek graduates with interdisciplinary competencies across technology, management and the social sciences.
Dr Kiiza said the initiative reflects broader shifts in global higher education.
“The problems graduates face today do not sit neatly within single disciplines. Universities must adapt accordingly,” he said.
International outlook
UTAMU has also signalled plans to deepen its international academic engagement through strategic partnerships and collaborative programmes.
While specific arrangements are still being finalised, Dr Kiiza emphasised that internationalisation efforts would proceed alongside strict compliance with national academic standards.
“Internationalisation works best when it is grounded in strong local governance,” he said.
Legal background informs approach
Drawing on his background as a legal scholar, Dr Kiiza said his leadership approach would be guided by principles of legality, transparency and institutional ethics.
“Universities are complex public-interest institutions,” he observed. “Rules and procedures are not constraints — they are safeguards.”
Looking ahead
Dr Kiiza said his immediate priorities include consolidating UTAMU’s governance systems while supporting academic innovation and sustainable student growth.
As universities increasingly compete across borders, education analysts argue that institutions investing in sound governance and interdisciplinary education are better positioned for long-term relevance and resilience.
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