Makerere’s 75th Graduation Kicks Off with a directive to mainstream the teaching of Political Economy across all programs
Makerere University has been directed to integrate political economy teaching across all courses to enhance students’ understanding of the country’s socioeconomic conditions. The directive, issued by the Chancellor, Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, on behalf of the Government, was welcomed by the university’s top management, who will incorporate it into the curriculum to align education with the needs of the people and the nation.
At the ceremony held at the Freedom Square, the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources, and Biosecurity celebrated the graduation of 186 students, including 6 PhD recipients. The cohort consisted of 68 female and 118 male graduates.
The event also honored staff members for their research excellence. Prof. Mugisha Lawrence, Dr. Enoch Matovu, Prof. Kankya Clovice, Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, and Dr. Nyakarahuka Luke received senior career awards. Midcareer awards were presented to Dr. Muhanguzi Denis, Dr. Vudrico Patrick, Dr. Mutebi Francis, and Dr. Nanteza Ann. Early career awards went to Dr. Wilfred Eneku, Dr. Abigaba Rubaijaniza, and Dr. Paul Ssajakambwe. The awards recognized exceptional contributions across various career stages, highlighting the college’s commitment to excellence in research and education.
Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, Chancellor of Makerere University addressing the 75th graduation congregation
In other developments, the government pledged to bolster Makerere’s research funding and strengthen partnerships with the private sector to commercialize innovations developed at the institution. The Chancellor, Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, who was presiding over the event following his appointment also urged the university to establish an agro-industrial park on its land. “The parks would serve three purposes: teaching, generating income, and acting as a demonstration site for communities across the country,” he said.
The Chancellor emphasized the urgency of addressing Uganda’s food insecurity, highlighting that 40% of children in the Rwenzori region are stunted, with malnutrition affecting all regions of the country. “Uganda must develop a robust food security system to ensure we do not starve amidst abundance,” he said.
The ceremony was graced by Hon. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, Minister of State for Primary Education, who represented the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni. Other dignitaries included members of Parliament, the judiciary, the diplomatic corps, and academics. She lauded Makerere University for its dedication to academic excellence and innovation. “Today reflects the resilience, hard work, and commitment of our graduates, supported by the university staff, management, and parents,” she said. The Minister commended the Vice Chancellor and management for fostering research and innovation while urging them to maintain robust quality control systems to uphold the institution’s integrity.
She also reflected on Makerere’s recent milestones, including the commissioning of a new School of Law building and the launch of the School of Graduate Studies and Research. “Your achievements stem from hard work, transparency, and accountability. They set Makerere apart as a leader in higher education,” she noted.
Vice Chancellor Highlights Makerere’s Impact
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe highlighted the achievements realised over the past period
Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe congratulated the 13,658 graduates, including 143 PhD recipients and 53% female graduates. He commended the efforts of staff, parents, and sponsors in supporting the students’ journeys. Prof. Nawangwe praised the achievements of Makerere’s colleges, including the College of Veterinary Medicine’s contributions to biosecurity and food systems.
Prof. Nawangwe reiterated Makerere’s transformation into a research-led institution supported by the government’s Research and Innovation Fund. “We are addressing national priorities, such as improving the Parish Development Model and advancing e-governance,” he stated.
Prof. LenkaBula’s Call for Resilience and Redefining African Women’s Mission
Professor Puleng LenkaBula from UNISA gave a keynote address
In a keynote address titled “The Power of Resilience—African Woman, Find Your Generational Mission and Redefine Your Worth,” Professor Puleng LenkaBula, principal and vice-chancellor of the University of South Africa (UNISA), highlighted the critical role of African women in shaping the continent’s destiny. She expressed gratitude for being invited to such a significant occasion and extended greetings from South Africa, including from UNISA’s Chancellor, former South African President Dr. Thabo Mbeki. She praised Makerere University for its legacy of academic excellence and contributions to the African continent, emphasizing its role in anti-colonial struggles, post-colonial development, and its steadfast commitment to African unity.
“Makerere University stands as a beacon of academic excellence and innovation, a vital part of Africa’s intellectual and developmental heritage,” she remarked, reflecting on the institution’s shared history with UNISA and other centers of higher learning in Africa.
Some of the graduating students at the ceremony
During the course of the 75th graduation ceremony, a total of 13,658 graduands will receive degrees and diplomas of Makerere University. 53 % of the graduands are female and 47% are male. 44% of the PhD graduands are female. A total of 491 graduands will receive first class degrees. The best graduand from the sciences, graduating with a CGPA of 4.91 and a Bachelor of Science is Mr. Mubiru Enock Joel. The best graduand from the humanities, graduating with a Bachelor of Leisure and Hospitality Management, with a CGPA of 4.07 is Mr. Bagoole Abdul Latif Umar. 16% of the graduates are graduating with post-graduate degrees and diplomas.
Written by Harriet Musinguzi
