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FCIT awards first Computer Systems Engineers Certificates
“This certificate award ceremony marks a turning point in the Computing Landscape” remarked Dr. Benjamin Kanagwa, The Head, Department of Networks, Faculty of Computing and Information Technology in his welcome address.
“This certificate award ceremony marks a turning point in the Computing Landscape” remarked Dr. Benjamin Kanagwa, The Head, Department of Networks, Faculty of Computing and Information Technology in his welcome address.
He further added that on completion of this course, students were equipped with sufficient knowledge in embedded systems to compete in the development of intelligent automated systems and toy cars like their counterparts in China, Japan and the United States of America.
Speaking on behalf of his fellow students Eng. Wekesa John, a mechanical engineer by previous training gave special thanks to all the instructors in Electronics, Computer Programming and Embedded systems. He appreciated the fact that after his ten week course, he and his peers were now equipped with sufficient knowledge to write program code, debug it and embed it into a microprocessor to achieve the desired functionality. And with this knowledge, the only limit to their output would be the ability to innovate and apply the rich knowledge accumulated during the course’s duration.
Mr. Higenyi Perez who spoke on behalf of his fellow instructors Mr. Omure and Mr Waligo appreciated the students’ efforts in adhering to the 10 week course structure and successfully rising to the challenges. He further thanked The Dean of the Faculty Prof. Barymureeba for this initiative and colleagues Dr. Kanagwa and Drake Mirembe for providing unceasing support throughout the course instruction. He noted that being the maiden course, a few observations had been made, which would help review the content to provide a more streamlined course for successive intakes.
Held on a cloudy afternoon on September 30th 2009, the third level Computer Systems Engineering lab of the Faculty’s Block B building played host to the award ceremony, the first of its kind in the history of the Faculty and the University. In his comments Mr. Michael Niyitegeka the Head, Corporate Communications at the faculty noted that after the 200 hour course; 120 hours theory and 80 hours practical, the students had met the requirements to be awarded certificates as the pioneers of this course. He then invited The Chief Guest and Dean Prof. Baryamureeba to award the successful students their certificates.
In his closing remarks The Dean appreciated the efforts made by Dr. Benjamin Kanagwa and his colleagues for nurturing this course within the Department of Networks. Impressed with the level of innovation, he pledged six million shillings to the graduates to help them market their innovations to the public.
He further stressed the importance of incubation of innovations that can provide ideal solutions to local problems hence the need for the Government and Academic institutions to come out and support these centers. “It is by nurturing young talent and ideas that companies like facebook and Microsoft were founded and continue do well on the global scene” he added.
In keeping with the Makerere University strategic plan of 2009-2019, the Dean noted that the Faculty had recently revised the curricula to meet the needs of society by training quality graduates equipped with hands-on skills. He also announced that the faculty had recently received a grant of two billion shillings for upgrading computer laboratories into state-of-the-art facilities. As exhibited by the award due to be received by the Dean on behalf of FCIT, he stressed that such grants will enable the faculty to continue being a model facility of computing in East and Central Africa.
In conclusion, he thanked the various Media houses for covering the event, the students for their participation in the program and the publicity garnered by Faculty’s Corporate Communications Office.
Click here for a brief description of projects exhibited.
Hosts Makerere University have officially kicked off the East African Universities’ Debate Championship EAUDC ZAABU 2026, bringing together student debaters, university leaders, and representatives from universities across the region to promote intellectual engagement, critical thinking, leadership development, and regional collaboration. The championship provides a platform for students to exchange ideas, strengthen public speaking skills, and develop solutions through constructive dialogue. This year’s theme is: From Dialogue to Action: The Role of Youth in Africa’s Transformation.
The event reflects Makerere University’s continued commitment to nurturing student leadership, academic excellence, and regional integration by providing opportunities for young people to engage in meaningful discussions and build networks beyond national borders.
Debate as a Platform for Regional Engagement
Chairperson of the Organizing Committee and Makerere University Debate Union (MDU), Mr. Arthur Akatwijuka highlighted the importance of hosting the championship and bringing together universities from different countries across East Africa. He noted that the event demonstrates the role of debate in connecting young leaders, promoting intellectual diversity, and strengthening collaboration among institutions of higher learning.
‘We are excited to have representation from the different countries and universities. This championship is not only about competition but also about creating a platform where young leaders can engage, share ideas, and shape the future of our region,’ said Mr. Akatwijuka.
Mr. Akatwijuka further explained that the championship provides participants with an opportunity to learn from different perspectives, develop confidence, and build skills that will contribute to their leadership journey. He encouraged students to embrace the experience as a platform for knowledge exchange and regional cooperation.
Reaffirming Makerere University‘s Commitment to Regional Integration
Speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment to advancing regional integration and nurturing future leaders through the EAUDC2026. He descried the championship as a vital platform for strengthening collaboration among universities.
‘Makerere was the first university in East Africa, so you are coming back home. This is your university, and its doors are always open to you,’ said Prof. Alinaitwe.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor noted that the championship builds on Makerere University‘s efforts to promote youth leadership and regional cooperation through debate. He said the competition equips participants with critical thinking, communication, research, and leadership skills while fostering unity among East African youth. ‘As we debate regionally, we are strengthening regional integration. By coming here, articulating your points and convincing others, you are being groomed to become formidable leaders and a force for production and transformation in our societies,’ he said.
Prof. Alinaitwe emphasized that beyond the competition, the championship creates opportunities for participants to build regional networks and lasting partnerships that can support future academic, professional, and leadership opportunities. He encouraged all participants to view themselves as winners for contributing to East Africa’s shared vision of integration and development.
‘All of us are already winners simply by participating in this championship. Whether you finish first or sixth, you have strengthened your skills and contributed to building the future of our region,’ stated Prof. Alinaitwe.
Developing Responsible Leaders Through Debate
The Dean of Students Makerere University, Dr. Winifred Namuwonge Kabumbuli warmly welcomed participants and described the championship as an important opportunity for developing responsible and innovative leaders. Dr. Namuwonge noted that debate enables students to improve their communication skills, engage with diverse perspectives, and become better prepared for future leadership roles.
Dr. Namuwonge encouraged participants to uphold integrity, respect different viewpoints, and use the championship as a platform for learning and cultural exchange. ‘Makerere University is proud to host this championship because debate develops leaders who can engage society with knowledge, confidence, and respect,’ Dr. Namuwonge noted.
Communication Skills for Future Leaders
The Electoral Commission Uganda, Head of Public Relations and Spokesperson, Mr. Julius Mucunguzi congratulated the organizers and participants for promoting intellectual dialogue through the championship. He emphasized that debate plays a significant role in preparing young people to communicate effectively and participate in leadership.
Mr. Mucunguzi explained that the skills acquired through debating extend beyond competition and are valuable in professional and public spaces. ‘Debate equips young people with the ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and contribute meaningfully to society. Makerere is proud to provide this platform for East Africa’s future leaders.’
He encouraged students to continue embracing debate as a tool for knowledge sharing, understanding different perspectives, and contributing positively to society.
Transform Dialogue into Action
The keynote speaker and Executive Secretary of Inter University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), Prof. Idris A. Rai who was represented by Dr. Gervais Ndayizeye challenged young people across East Africa to move beyond discussions and take action in addressing challenges facing the continent. He described the championship as a platform for developing future leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers who will contribute to Africa’s transformation.
‘We wish that the end comes not only with debate but with action. The role of youth in African transformation is very important,’ the keynote speaker said.
Dr. Ndayizeye emphasized that young people, who make up more than 70 per cent of Africa’s population, have the potential to turn challenges into opportunities through innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership. He encouraged the youth to change their mindset from seeking employment to creating solutions and opportunities for others.
‘The question should no longer be, ‘Who will employ me?’ The new question should be, ‘What problem can I solve?’ challenged Dr. Ndayizeye.
Dr. Ndayizeye urged young leaders to actively participate in governance by voting, engaging in public affairs, and holding leaders accountable. He also highlighted the importance of East African integration, calling on young people to embrace regional cooperation and take advantage of opportunities across member states.
‘You must vote. You must engage. You must contribute. You must hold leaders accountable. You must become part of the leadership,’ Dr. Ndayizeye stated.
He further stressed that discipline is essential for success, noting that talent and education must be supported by commitment and responsibility. ‘Talent without discipline is wasted potential. Discipline is what transforms goals into achievements,’ Prof. Idris said.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Ndayizeye challenged participants to become innovators, responsible citizens, and creators of opportunities who will turn ideas into action. ‘This generation will be remembered as the generation that transformed dialogue into action, challenges into opportunities, and possibilities into progress. The future of this East African Community is sitting in this room today,’ he concluded.
EAUDC ZAABU 2026 is organised by the Makerere University Debate Union (MDU), the official student organization that promotes debate, public speaking, poetry, and critical discourse. The debate will be held from 27th to 31st July 2026 at the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility.
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