In a formal handover ceremony held on June 12, 2025, Mr. Emmanuel Natal Banya, who has resigned from his role as University Secretary at Muni University, officially handed over office property and responsibilities to the Vice Chancellor, Associate Prof. Simon Katrini Anguma.
Mr. Banya’s resignation comes as he prepares to join active politics, with plans to contest in the upcoming Koboko County Constituency Member of Parliament race (2026–2031) under the NRM ticket. During the handover, he returned all official assets entrusted to him since his appointment in 2021, including his office car keys, laptop, and university identification card.
The Vice Chancellor praised Mr. Banya for his dedicated service and transformative leadership, noting that his legacy of integrity, accountability, and institutional development will be remembered as a model for public service.
“Mr. Banya has been a pillar in Muni University’s administration, contributing significantly to our academic and infrastructural growth. We wish him great success in his political journey,” remarked Prof. Anguma.
Muni University stands at a significant turning point in its administrative journey as it bids farewell to one of its most transformative leaders.Mr. Emmanuel Natal Banya. His departure is not merely a change of office; it is a moment of reflection, pride, and affirmation of the university’s mission to nurture leaders who extend their influence beyond the campus gates.
Appointed in 2021 through a competitive process by the University Appointments Committee, Mr. Banya took on the pivotal role of University Secretary and Accounting Officer at a time when the institution was solidifying its foundations. Over the years, he became a central force in shaping Muni’s policy, governance, and institutional development agenda.
His leadership was not confined to routine administration. Under his watch, the university witnessed tangible milestones as students’ enrollment figures increased, infrastructure expanded, financial systems became more accountable, and governance processes grew more robust and structured.
These achievements underscore Muni University’s position as a beacon of higher education in Uganda’s West Nile region. It is no surprise that Banya’s departure is accompanied by high praise from the Vice Chancellor and staff , a recognition not just of what he did, but how he did it: with integrity, vision, and unwavering faith.
“Mr. Banya has been more than an administrator, he has been a steward of Muni’s values and vision,” said Prof. Anguma. “His legacy will continue to shape the way we think about service, leadership, and institutional transformation.”
The handover ceremony was more than a transfer of keys and laptops. It was a ceremonial affirmation of Muni University’s values: accountability, leadership, and excellence. In returning all institutional assets and expressing sincere gratitude, Mr. Banya modeled the ethics of public service Muni strives to instill in all its students and leaders.
“Leaving a good job is not easy, but when God calls you to serve at another level, you must obey,” he said. “I thank the Muni University team for the support and collaboration over the years. If I ever fell short, it was never personal, only in the line of duty for the institution.”
His declaration to contest in the Koboko County Constituency NRM primaries in 2026 is not a departure from service but an expansion of it. As the Vice Chancellor noted, he leaves not just as a former Secretary, but as a continuing ambassador of Muni University’s ideals.
This transition exemplifies what Muni University is about: developing leaders who transform society. Whether in academia, civil service, or political leadership, Muni alumni and staff continue to shape the fabric of Uganda. Mr. Banya’s next chapter only reaffirms this narrative.
As the university turns a new page, it does so with confidence knowing that the foundation built by leaders like Banya will inspire future generations. And as the people of Koboko County prepare to make their voices heard, Muni watches with pride, knowing that one of its own is ready to serve them.
