By Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe
Amidst the grandeur of the 74th graduation ceremony at Makerere University, a total of 12,913 graduands are set to embark on new chapters in their lives armed with degrees and diplomas.
This diverse cohort includes 132 PhD graduates, 1585 Masters Recipients, 11,016 Bachelor’s degree awardees, 156 postgraduate diploma achievers, and 24 undergraduate diploma earners.
Breaking down the demographics, 53% of the graduates are female, and 47% are male. Among the PhD graduands, 46 are female and 86 are male.
The commitment to contribute significantly to Africa’s development is evident, to graduate at least 200 PhDs annually in response to the World Bank’s call for 100,000 PhDs for Africa over the next decade.
In the spirit of tradition, the ceremony recognizes outstanding undergraduate students in humanities and sciences.
Notable mentions include Tusubira Silas Wamala and Atukunda Kevin, both achieving a CGPA of 4.84 out of 5.0. Ruhweza Charles Godfrey, with a CGPA of 4.8, leads the sciences with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. These exceptional students will receive awards from the convocation.
The occasion also extends congratulations to Makerere University staff members, their spouses, children, and student leaders graduating. Balancing leadership roles with academic pursuits is commendable, and the hope is for continued success as they step into new opportunities beyond the university gates.
Recognizing Academic Units
The ceremony acknowledges the commendable efforts of academic units presenting graduates. Special mention goes to the College of Business and Management Sciences, the College of Computing and Information Sciences, and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources, and Bio-security.
These colleges have demonstrated breakthroughs in teaching, research, and innovations that address societal challenges.
College of Business and Management Sciences
The College, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda, has drafted the proposed Parish Development Model (PDM) implementation strategy.
Recognizing the importance of the PDM, Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny Dollo emphasized the need for community awareness, urging graduates to play a role in informing the public. The Entrepreneurship and Innovations Center at the college has fostered over 100 business ideas in the past year, promoting a culture of innovation.
The College also celebrates partnerships that have resulted in accolades for students like Lwamasaka Prosper and Jude Sebuliba. Notably, the School of Business obtained ACCA global accreditation, providing students with valuable exemptions.
Additionally, partnerships with Oxford University and hosting international conferences demonstrate the college’s commitment to global collaboration and research.
College of Computing and Information Sciences
Addressing whether Africa will be left behind in the era of artificial intelligence, Makerere University, particularly the College of Computing and Information Sciences, is actively engaged in leveraging AI for societal benefit.
The Ocular project, funded by Google, focuses on using AI for the diagnosis of Malaria, Tuberculosis, and Cervical Cancer, showcasing the university’s dedication to cutting-edge research with real-world impact.
Furthermore, projects like the device designed by second-year PhD student Paddy Junior Asiimwe for monitoring elderly people with dementia demonstrate the college’s commitment to using technology to address healthcare challenges.
The AirQo Project’s CLEAN-Air Africa Network launch emphasizes collaboration for sustainable interventions in air quality management across the continent.
College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources, and Bio-security
Recognizing the urgent need for food security in the face of population growth, the college is making substantial contributions.
The Anti-tick Vaccine trials show promising results, and the college is actively engaged in various research projects.
A Biomarker discovery and translation research laboratory, supported by the Government of Uganda, aims to develop point-of-care diagnostic kits for infectious and non-communicable diseases.
The college’s involvement in the Norbrook Veterinary Academic Excellence Award and the electronic Rabies Surveillance project, supported by the Swiss Government, demonstrates a commitment to excellence in veterinary education and public health.
Outstanding Achievements and Research Excellence
The Vice Chancellor’s Research Excellence Awards acknowledge the university’s commitment to research.
Prof. Moses Robert Kamya and Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze received recognition as the Best Overall Male and Female Researchers.
The university encourages all staff to contribute to research that aligns with national and global development priorities.
Appreciation of Government Support
Prof. Nawangwe expresses gratitude to the Government for its unwavering support.
This support has played a crucial role in the university’s achievements, including staff welfare and the Research and Innovation Fund.
Launch of the Makerere University @100 Book
The celebration extends beyond the current achievements with the launch of “Makerere’s Century of Service to East Africa and Beyond: 1922-2022.”
This book, published by Makerere University Press, encapsulates the institution’s unique journey serving Uganda, East Africa, and the world.
Makerere University Transcripts and Certificates
A testament to efficiency and commitment, academic transcripts for the 74th graduation ceremony students were prepared before the event.
Graduates are encouraged to collect their transcripts promptly from their respective colleges.
I recognize that all these achievements would not have been possible without the tacit support of the Visitor, H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Ministry of Education Maama Janet Museveni, the University Council and Staff, and you the students.
A Word to the Graduands
In closing, I remind graduands of the significance of their achievements. Graduation is not only a license for success but a privilege to serve humanity.
Armed with knowledge from one of the world’s premier universities, graduands are urged to embody discipline, hard work, gratitude to parents, and a reverence for God.
I am confident that, with a Makerere degree, graduates are well-equipped to conquer the world and make a positive impact.
In conclusion, Makerere University’s 74th graduation ceremony marks not just an academic milestone for the graduates but a testament to the institution’s commitment to excellence, research, and societal impact. As the university continues to evolve, the hope is that the graduating class will carry forward the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and service instilled by Makerere.
NOTE: The author is the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University. This is an abridged version of his speech to the graduands during this week-long graduation ceremonial sessions.
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