In a ceremony marked by reflection, appreciation and renewed commitment to academic leadership, Busitema University held a formal handover of Deanship positions at the Faculty of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences from Prof. Alice Nakiyemba to Dr. Sowedi Masaba. The transition symbolised not only a change in leadership but also a moment of gratitude for dedicated service and optimism for the future. Dr. Sowedi, who previously served as the faculty's Deputy Dean, now steps into the role of Dean with a wealth of institutional knowledge and experience while Dr. Kakungulu Moses has been appointed as the new Deputy Dean. The event which took place at the Faculty premises was graced by members of top management led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Paul Waako and Prof. Saphina Biira (Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs), who also presided over the ceremony. 
Other senior University officials including Ms. Nambafu Rachael Wandeka (Deputy University Secretary), Dr. Lugya Fredrick Kiwuuwa (University Librarian) Dr. Muweesi Charles (Director Institutional Advancement), Mr. Erogo Wanyama (Deputy Dean of Students) Mr. Makubo Fred (Chief Internal Auditor) and staff from the Faculty of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (FNRES) were also in attendance underscoring the importance of the occasion to the wider university community.

Top management celebrates the FNRES deanship with a ceremonial cake-cutting ceremony.

The ceremony commenced with a speech from Mr. Makubo, who affirmed that a comprehensive audit had been conducted to ensure that all university assets and facilities under the faculty had been properly handed over. He also commended the outgoing Faculty Dean, Prof. Alice Nakiyemba, for presenting a detailed and transparent report on the status of the faculty's assets. 
In her remarks, the outgoing Dean, Prof. Alice, expressed gratitude to the university management for entrusting her with the responsibility of leading the faculty. She highlighted notable achievements during her tenure, including the expansion of academic collaborations, growth in scholarship opportunities, and a steady increase in student enrolment in the faculty. She thanked her colleagues and staff for their unwavering support and dedication to the faculty’s mission.
On the other hand, Prof. Masaba Sowedi, who previously served as Deputy Dean, extended his appreciation to the university leadership for the trust placed in him. He pledged to work collaboratively with management, faculty members, and stakeholders to strengthen the faculty's role in driving academic excellence, research, and community engagement. He also acknowledged the foundation laid by his predecessor and expressed optimism about building on those achievements.
Delivering his closing remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Paul Waako lauded Prof. Alice for her exceptional service and welcomed Prof. Sowedi to his new role. He spoke candidly about the demands of leadership, describing it as a journey that requires patience, attentive listening, and the courage to make difficult but necessary decisions for the good of the institution. Prof. Waako encouraged all leaders to be accountable, to embrace continuous learning, and to remain committed to the university’s vision of transformative education and development.
The handover ceremony marked not only a transition of leadership but also a celebration of progress and the promise of continued growth for the Faculty of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences. With a renewed sense of purpose and unity, the faculty looks forward to a new chapter of innovation, academic achievement, and institutional development under Prof. Sowedi’s stewardship.