MUST Pharmacy Program's Accreditation Confirmed by Deputy Speaker

Despite recent concerns raised by the Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda (PSU) regarding its professional recognition, the Bachelor of Pharmacy program at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) has been confirmed as accredited by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) for the coming four years. Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa addressed Parliament, clarifying that he personally contacted the NCHE Executive Director, who verified the program’s accredited status.

“The students are learning and being taught an accredited course,” Tayebwa stated during a plenary session on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. He further elaborated that the NCHE’s accreditation was granted in collaboration with key stakeholders, including the PSU itself. Tayebwa noted potential overlap in the mandates of the PSU and the NCHE concerning pharmacy education and training under existing legislation.

In light of these developments, the Deputy Speaker has directed the Minister for Education and Sports to present a detailed statement to Parliament on Thursday, October 22, 2026. Additionally, he has requested the Minister to consult with the Attorney General, who is also tasked with presenting the relevant legal framework governing the matter.

Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi, highlighted that the PSU’s concerns might extend to the qualifications of the individual leading MUST’s Pharmacy Department. Ssenyonyi urged swift action from the government and authorities to resolve these issues, emphasizing the need to prevent uncertainty for current students and future graduates. “If it is a question of somebody heading a department who requires a particular set of qualifications, I think that should be sorted out so that students are not in disarray,” he remarked.

For more details, please refer to the Parliament of Uganda website: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4674/mbarara-university-pharmacy-course-accredited-tayebwa