The Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda (PSU) has withdrawn recognition of Mbarara University of Science and Technology’s Bachelor of Pharmacy programme, citing inadequate staffing and the appointment of a nurse to head the department.
In a public notice dated October 19, 2026, PSU said the university had failed to respond to a notice requiring it to explain why recognition of the programme should not be withdrawn.
The society said its council found that the Department of Pharmacy was headed in an acting capacity by a non-pharmacist, “(nurse by profession),” had inadequate staff and had not advertised the position of head of department for substantive appointment.
“Council has resolved to withdraw its recognition of the Bachelor of Pharmacy program at Mbarara University of Science and Technology with immediate effect from the date of this notice,” the statement reads.
PSU said it issued a show-cause notice on September 10, 2026, giving the university 30 days to respond, but it failed to do so within the stipulated period.
The withdrawal means PSU will not recognise qualifications obtained from courses taught or assessed during the de-recognition period.
The society has also suspended the issuance of pharmacy student numbers, recognition of internship placements and eligibility for pre-internship and pre-registration qualifying examinations for new graduates of the programme until compliance is restored.
Current students have been advised to seek transfers to other universities recognised by PSU or await compliance by MUST.
The society said a follow-up inspection would be conducted if the university addresses the inspection findings and issues raised in the show-cause notice.
PSU said the decision was made under its statutory mandate to safeguard pharmacy training standards as provided for under Section 22(2) of the Pharmacy and Drugs Act, Cap 309