The government has pledged continued support to Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) to address staffing gaps in its pharmacy programme amid a dispute over the recognition of the course by the Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda (PSU).

State Minister for Education in Charge of Primary Education, Phyllis Chemutai, said most of the concerns raised by the professional body had been resolved, assuring the university of the government’s continued backing.

Chemutai’s remarks come after the PSU Council announced the withdrawal of recognition of MUST’s pharmacy programme, warning that graduates could face challenges obtaining professional registration and licences to practise.

The dispute has raised concerns among students, parents and other university stakeholders about the programme’s status and the potential implications for graduates seeking to enter the profession.

Speaking on the matter, Chemutai said the government remained committed to supporting the university in addressing the outstanding staffing requirements and ensuring the programme’s continued progress.

The MUST Chancellor, Prof. Jack H. Pen-Mogi Nyeko, defended the university, arguing that the regulation and accreditation of universities and their academic programmes fall under the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE).

He said professional associations should independently verify the qualifications of applicants seeking membership, including those obtained from foreign institutions, and establish whether the awarding universities are accredited in their respective countries.

Dr Warren Naamara, chairperson of the MUST governing council, also criticised the PSU’s communication, arguing that the authority to determine the recognition of university degrees rests with the NCHE rather than a professional association.

He urged parents, students and other university stakeholders not to panic over the dispute.

The disagreement has brought renewed attention to the respective responsibilities of the higher education regulator and professional bodies in determining academic programme accreditation and eligibility for professional practice.