It’s Rule Of Law! Victoria University Inaugurates First-Ever University Tribunal, Boosts Campus Justice & Fairness

By Frank Kamuntu

Victoria University has officially inaugurated its University Tribunal during a ceremony held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, marking a major step in strengthening 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 in his capacity as Commissioner of Oaths.

The event drew notable attendees including the University Director and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, members of the University Council 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 emphasized the tribunal’s central role in the university’s internal justice system. He noted that all disputes arising within the institution must be handled by the tribunal before parties consider seeking redress 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 said. He added that the tribunal will offer a fair, structured, and timely mechanism for addressing administrative and academic disputes.

Composition Of The Tribunal

The newly constituted tribunal brings together representatives from key constituencies across the university. Members include:

• 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 academic staff
• Mr. Vikrant Jha – Representative of administrative staff
• Dr. Harriet Mimi Uwineza – Representative of the Senate
• Dr. Mary Kanyiginya Tizikara – Representative of the University Council

Vice Chancellor Prof. Lawrence Muganga noted that establishing the tribunal reinforces accountability and formalizes dispute-resolution procedures across the university. He said the development positions Victoria University in line 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, further advised the newly sworn-in members to ensure proportional judgments, evidence-based decisions, and a clear right of appeal. He stressed the need for confidentiality, accessibility, and sensitivity to vulnerable groups, including individuals with disabilities or language limitations.

He urged the tribunal to operate within legal frameworks such as 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 measures.

The ceremony concluded with a pledge from the tribunal leadership to uphold integrity, impartiality, and professionalism. The Chairperson Mr Elisha assured the university community that the tribunal will serve as a respected and effective platform for resolving disputes.

Before We Close—What Exactly Does a University Tribunal Do?

• Handles internal disputes involving students, staff, or administration before cases reach national courts.
• Conducts disciplinary hearings for academic misconduct and behavioral violations.
• Ensures all parties receive a fair hearing with the right to present evidence and witnesses.
• Interprets and enforces university rules and policies in line with national laws.
• Issues appropriate disciplinary or corrective actions, from warnings to suspensions.
• Protects the rights of students and staff through transparent and structured procedures.
• Acts as an appellate body for reviewing decisions made by lower disciplinary committees.
• Ensures decisions are lawful, consistent, and evidence-based.
• Supports the administration by resolving conflicts that could disrupt learning or campus harmony.

Why The Tribunal Matters At A University Like VU

• Promotes fairness and justice by ensuring disputes are handled objectively.
• Reduces pressure on national courts by resolving issues internally.
• Enhances accountability among students, staff, and administrators.
• Protects the university’s integrity and reputation through transparent disciplinary processes.
• Ensures consistent and non-arbitrary decision-making.
• Ensures compliance with national laws and institutional policies.
• Strengthens governance by providing independent oversight of administrative actions.
• Improves campus harmony by resolving conflicts before they escalate.
• Protects vulnerable individuals, including those with disabilities or language challenges.
• Builds trust between the university community and leadership through impartial dispute resolution.

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