MASA is established pursuant to Section 68 of the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, 2001 (as amended), which provides for the formation of Administrative Staff Associations in Public Universities. The Association serves as a platform for promoting staff welfare, professional development, effective communication with management, institutional cohesion, and meaningful participation in the growth and development of Muni University.
Presiding over the election process was Rev. Fr. Prof. Epiphany Picho Odubuker, who served as the Electoral Commission Chairperson. He officially dissolved the outgoing committee and guided members through the election of a new executive team.
In his remarks, Rev. Fr. Prof. Odubuker, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration emphasized the importance of staff associations in advancing the welfare and professional interests of university employees. He encouraged members to utilize the association as a vehicle for collective development and innovation.
"This association presents an opportunity for members to mobilize resources, initiate income-generating projects, and strengthen staff welfare. Staff associations play a vital role in universities and should be accorded the importance they deserve," he said.
The election saw Mr. Hirya Ronald, Senior Deputy Academic Registrar, elected as the new Chairperson of MASA, while Mr. Morris Munguci, Deputy Procurement Officer, was elected Vice Chairperson. Other members were also elected to various positions on the Executive Committee to support the leadership and operations of the Association.
Speaking after his election, Mr. Hirya thanked members for the confidence they had placed in him and pledged to provide inclusive and accountable leadership.
"This is not about individual leadership; it is about all of us working together. We have listened carefully to the issues and gaps raised by members, and we are committed to addressing them collectively. Thank you for entrusting us with this responsibility. We are determined not to betray your trust and will work closely as a team to advance the interests of the association," he said.
He further emphasized that MASA is not a political platform but rather a forum for unity, collaboration, and collective action aimed at improving the welfare and professional growth of administrative staff.
Mr. Wahid Abdul Ijosiga, Head of Human Resource Management, congratulated the newly elected executive committee and called upon its members to provide accountable and visionary leadership. He urged them to prioritize the welfare of members, strengthen the association, and remain committed to advancing its mission and objectives.
He encouraged the new leaders to focus on growing the association, meeting members' expectations, and ensuring transparency in their operations.
"The success of this association depends on your commitment to serving its members. Ensure that the association grows, remains responsive to members' needs, and lives up to its expectations. Always remain accountable to those who have entrusted you with leadership," he advised.
Mr. Wahid also pledged to dedicate time to mentoring the new executive committee, including providing guidance on effective leadership and management practices during their initial meetings.
The AGM concluded with members expressing optimism that the new leadership would build on the achievements of the outgoing committee and steer MASA towards greater impact, unity, and sustainability.
The newly elected executive committee is expected to spearhead initiatives aimed at enhancing staff welfare, strengthening engagement with university management, and promoting the overall development of Muni University.
