Makerere University has educated us in administrative law and outlined the various punishments available to lawbreakers, especially in criminal law.
The LCV Chairman of Amudat District Local Government, Mr Nangole Joseph Lobot echoed this at the graduation of government workers who recently completed a course in administrative law from Makerere University’s Mbale Branch.
“As the chairman and all government employees, we shall ensure that we operate within the law,” Mr Nangole said, before emphasizing the importance of everyone arming themselves with legal skills to avoid getting into trouble with the police. He also pointed out that prison is a cold place, and civil servants should take note of this.
In 2010, the Minister for Internal Affairs ordered the interdiction of the Kanungu Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for undermining the National Identity Card project. Civil servants are expected to advise the government discreetly rather than openly criticizing government actions.
General Nyikairima, the Minister for Internal Affairs, ordered the immediate dismissal of the Deputy CAO. Civil servants are meant to advise the government rather than criticize it, as they are government employees.
To ensure the success of the Parish Development Model (PDM), civil servants involved in its implementation should learn from this scenario and advise the government on policy gaps instead of rushing to radio stations to criticize it. They should avoid engaging in any form of propaganda that might undermine the program.
Ugandan universities, authorized by Article 30 of the constitution, are closely linked to the Parish Development Model for several reasons. It is well established that universities like Makerere and others play a significant role in training many individuals responsible for implementing government programs and projects.
These universities focus on training for local governments, and courses that do not address community needs are abandoned. Universities play a crucial role in training the bureaucratic community, who are the actual implementers of government programs.
The success of these programs depends on how these employees apply their university knowledge and public relations skills. It is important for them to execute their official assignments with good manners. As there are numerous government programs aimed at communities, they should stay away from white-collar crimes and cooperate with the government. Former learners should avoid involving themselves in criminal activities, as life in prison is distressing.
Makerere University, as a government institution, has collaborated with the government on various political and economic empowerment programs. This collaboration dates back to the decentralization policy era, with involvement from professors like Mamdan.
The focus has shifted towards the Parish Development Model, where Makerere University has trained numerous local government employees across its main campus and upcountry branches. These branches and centres are spread across the country, from Mbale to Iganga and beyond, to enhance the implementation of government programs.
Over 99% of academic and financial research findings confirm that Parish Development Model loans have the world’s lowest interest rates, nearly zero.
The Parish Development Model is a multi-sectoral government strategy designed to transform 39% of Ugandans engaged in subsistence farming, aligning with various government visions to uplift all Ugandans to a middle-income status by 2040. Development economists, including the author, commend the government for prioritizing citizens (Mwanainchi). While the government previously focused on major projects like roads and hydro dams, this new focus on citizens is appreciated.
Parish chiefs are crucial operations managers for the PDM. Without them, the program would stall. In management, it is a common principle that while all managers are involved in planning, controlling, and organizing, operations managers have the direct responsibility of ensuring that the job is done well.
They provide the necessary leadership to ensure services reach the customers. Under the PDM, development priorities are determined by those receiving funds, and plans are approved by the government through the parish development committees.
Universities design academic programs to equip learners with skills they can use as government employees. Some return for refresher courses or additional learning to improve their performance. Many civil servants have faced legal consequences for mishandling public funds. A deep understanding of the law, particularly anti-corruption and administrative malpractice laws, can prevent such pitfalls.
Those implementing programs should utilize various skills and knowledge, including policy formulation, implementation strategies, motivation theories, and planning techniques. Lifelong learning involves applying university knowledge to communities.
Makerere University’s College of Education and External Studies, for example, has structures across the country where lifelong skills can be acquired to enhance government programs.
The structure of the Parish Development Model needs strengthening, including planning and legislative powers. A policy framework should be established to ensure its effectiveness in handling unforeseen tasks.
Students of administrative law from Makerere University’s upcountry branches and centers are encouraged to fully implement the law by enacting bylaws and ordinances to address policy and legal gaps. Consistent consultation, especially on enabling provisions for the PDM or any government
The author serves as the Branch Coordinator for Makerere University’s Mbale branch. You can contact him at 0706655811.
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