General
Rt. Hon. Mbabazi launches Students Centre Project at Mak@90 Grand Finale
On Saturday 3rd August 2013, distinguished guests, alumni, partners, staff, students, friends and well-wishers filled the Makerere University campus to participate in the ‘Mak@90’ Grand Finale; a climax of the year-long celebrations to mark 90 years of Makerere University’s existence. Thanks to the heavens for the fine and cool weather!
As early as 9:00am, one would feel the celebratory mood in the atmosphere, as flags flew high and the proud alumni kept streaming in. A green and clean campus, people of all ages walking majestically to the Freedom Square; the Uganda Police band playing wonderful hymns; students wearing red gowns; and all invited guests elegantly and confidently walking in, with happy faces – clearly communicating that they have an inner untold joy to be at Makerere University!
By 10:30am, the Freedom Square was filled to capacity as they waited to receive the Chief Guest, H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. The jubilant congregation welcomed the composer of the Makerere University Anthem, Mr. Grace Wilson Mutekanga Igaga with a standing ovation as he was ushered in the VIP tent in the Freedom Square. The Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi, an alumnus of Makerere University represented His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Uganda. The congregation also rose to their feet to welcome H.E Dr. Mwai Kibaki, former President of the Republic of Kenya, and a distinguished alumnus of Makerere University, to the historic celebrations.
Under the theme, “Leadership towards Africa’s transformation in the 21st century,” the staff and students exhibited the latest advances in research and innovations at this great institution. The Chancellor of Makerere University, Chairperson of Council, Vice Chancellor, the Prime Minister of Uganda, the Minister of Education and Sports; and other dignitaries toured the exhibition.
On behalf of the President, Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi laid a foundation stone for the Makerere University Students’ Centre. This project is expected to cost USD 30million with Phase 1 costing USD 15million, and total built-up area of 58,000sq.metres. The congregation was wowed by the magnificent artistic impression of the proposed storied Students’ centre. An excited member of the congregation blossoming with happiness was overheard exclaiming, “Oh dear Lord, I wish I live to see the completion of this wonderful Students’ Centre!” May the Almighty grant this wish.
“The need for Universities to devote more time to research, innovations and career guidance so as to help our children study courses that are relevant to the needs of society has never been greater than it is currently. We would therefore like to congratulate Makerere University for extending her innovations to economic self sustainability by seeking to construct the multi-facility Students Centre,” he said. He also re-emphasized Government’s commitment to supporting Makerere University.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu, explained that the Students’ Centre will be a one-stop information centre for students with a multi-purpose auditorium. He called unto all stakeholders, including the alumni to support this cause.
“The role of Alumni in any Institution cannot be underestimated. You are core to the existence of any University. As you may be aware, most Universities, especially in the North, have mostly succeeded because of the support of their alumni. In times when Government funding for higher education is increasingly not enough, the Alumni have a great opportunity to make a substantial contribution. Makerere University has produced over 300,000 graduates. I would like to thank you, Alumni of Makerere University for your various contributions wherever you are in Uganda and all over the globe. I am now appealing to you – the Alumni – to come forward and make your contribution towards this great Institution,” he appealed. The VC also paid tribute to the development partners for supporting the institutional programmes of Makerere University. Professor Ddumba-Ssentamu, also the Chairperson of Mak@90 Main Organising Committee applauded the Members of Mak@90 Organising Committee, University of East Africa celebrations Committee and the Ceremonies Committee for the hard work and selfless service during the year-long Mak@90 celebrations.
H.E Mwai Kibaki, former President of Kenya who spoke as a distinguished alumni of Makerere University, challenged young Makerereans to make their contribution by breaking new ground in research.
“As old Makerereans, we have done our part. It is now the turn of young Makerereans to break new ground through research and innovations,” he emphasized.
Drawing examples of some of the prominent alumni that have gone through Makerere University like the late Julius Nyerere, President Kabila of DRC; President Kibaki congratulated Makerere University for giving the region and the entire world high quality human resource.
“I am grateful to be a witness to the ninety year celebrations. It is not the number of years that count but rather the institution’s illustrious story of transformation,” he added. President Kibaki, a proud alumnus of Makerere University was grateful to the Institution for contributing to making him what he is today.
The celebrations were heightened with the fresh news of Makerere University’s improved ranking from 9th to 4th position on the continent, as per the July 2013 webometric rankings.
“In the next few years, Makerere should become a World Class University. The Task Force on Job Evaluation and Re-organisation of Staff Structure of Makerere University has already made path finder recommendations that are being scrutinized and we shall soon be able to set Makerere on the path to World Class categorization and this is a sure possibility,” re-assured Hon. Jessica Alupo, the Education Minister.
On behalf of the Student community, the Guild President, H.E Anna Adeke-Ebaju, appealed to the Government of Uganda to increase funding to public universities. She requested Government to re-consider the beneficiaries of the Students’ Loan Scheme, which currently caters for only science students, and excludes humanities and social sciences. In response to her request, the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister explained that the Students loan is still in its infancy, Government is aware of its challenges, but that it will improve as time goes by.
A key highlight of the celebrations was the recognition of Mr. Grace Wilson Mutekanga Igaga, the composer of the Makerere University Anthem. The police band played and the congregation joined in giving this illustrious alumnus a highly deserved standing ovation as he walked to receive an award from the Chancellor, Professor George Mondo Kagonyera, in recognition of his genius contribution to Makerere University.
“As we celebrate the 90 years of Makerere University, I take this singular honour of recognizing the composer of one of the most beautiful anthems, I have ever listened to,” remarked the joyful Chancellor. He then presented the well-worded and beautiful plaque to Mr. Grace Wilson Mutekanga Igaga and a dummy cheque of Five Million shillings, as a token of appreciation from the Makerere University.
Mr. Grace Wilson Mutekanga Igaga, in recognition of your ingenious efforts in composing the Makerere University Anthem – a timeless and eternally inspiring masterpiece – read part of the plaque.
The 70 year old Grace Wilson Mutekanga Igaga thrilled the congregation when he melodiously and articulately opened his vocal cords to sing a stanza of the coveted Anthem; in a manner that only the original composer could have done. He was extremely natural, original and fully in control, as the audience looked on in awe, fighting back tears of joy! Mutekanga was in the company of his dear wife, Mrs. Frances Mutekanga. The applause that followed was thunderous!
In his address to the congregation, the jovial alumnus, Mutekanga said, “With big humility, I stand before you, to thank you Mr. Vice Chancellor and your administration for every effort. I thank the Makerere University community for accepting my commodity. I say to the entire world, I feel honoured. I have never imagined that I would receive this honour when I am still alive. I am very grateful for the Award.”
In the same spirit, Gen. Elly Tumwine, the Patron of the Great Lakes Students’ Union presented a medal to H.E Dr. Mwai Kibaki in recognition of his outstanding political, economic and life achievements and also for promoting good governance in the region.
The guests were treated to a photographic memory lane of Makerere University and a video tour of the great Institution. They were served mouth-watering snacks and bull-roasting. The celebration attracted artists who are also alumni of Makerere University. Key among them was Herbert Segujja, a popular comedian, excellent at mimicking President Museveni. The audience broke into uncontrollable laughter when the comedy version of President Museveni in the person of Segujja, drove into the Freedom Square with full V.I.P escorts and glamour. He went ahead to give remarks that sent the audience into further laughter. By press time, (10:00pm) the guests were still dancing to the tunes of these artists, in a highly interactive dance floor. The event was updated online (facebook and twitter) as it happened, and was also covered live on UBC. As estimated 900 guests attended the grand finale, close to the expected 1,000.
The event was majorly sponsored by Makerere University. Other sponsors included Bank of Uganda, Centenary Bank; Stanbic Bank; dfcu Bank, Crane Bank; Coca-Cola Sabco, Crown Beverages Limited, UBC Television, NTV, sms one and the Daily Monitor.
Congratulations to Makerere University for successfully celebrating the 90 years of existence.
Looking forward to the Centennial celebrations!
Story By Ritah Namisango and Marion Alina
Photos by Elias Tuhereze and Joseph Buwule
Makerere University, through the Makerere University Convocation (MUC), has hosted the first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit on Tuesday, 2nd September 2025. The historic event brought together alumni, Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), and stakeholders in a distinguished assembly aimed at re-imagining the university’s role in national and continental transformation.
The Convocation, which serves as a critical forum for foresight and life-transformational dialogue, unveiled five transformative points carefully crafted to transform Makerere from a symbolic “ivory tower” into an “impact tower” that influences the country and the world more than ever before.
Government Endorsement and Call to Action
The Chief Guest, Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, was represented at the event by the 3rd Deputy Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga. She conveyed warm greetings from H.E. the President of Uganda, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister.
She commended the Convocation for convening under the summit under a significant and timely theme: “Exploring the Opportunities for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Value Creation for Accelerated Socio-Economic Integration and Development of Sub-Saharan Africa.”
She described the summit as not just a gathering but a journey and a call to action, urging academia, industry, and government to align efforts with Uganda’s and Africa’s transformation priorities.
Framing her remarks around the World Bank’s guiding principles—Trust, Humility, Inclusion, Collaboration, and Knowledge—she explained:
- “Trust must be built between government, academia, and business… the gathering reflects the trust in CEOs and investors to walk this journey together.”
- “Humility requires listening and learning, recognizing that no single institution has all the answers.”
- “Inclusion reminds us that no youth, woman, or marginalized group should be left behind in transformation.”
- “Collaboration is the currency of progress, necessary for solving complex challenges across sectors.”
- “Knowledge remains our greatest asset, with Makerere University demonstrating its importance in moving from ivory towers to communities to transform lives.”
She then unveiled a “massive transformation purpose”, commissioning five working teams led by CEOs and investors. The teams, nominated lead persons, and their respective objectives included:
- From Ivory Tower to Impact Tower – Dr. Patricia Ojangole (UDB) with Patrick Ayota (NSSF), translating research into market-ready innovations.
- Diaspora Dividend vs Brain Drain – Jennifer Bamuturaki (Uganda Airlines) with Michael Mugabi (Housing Finance Bank), harnessing diaspora capital, skills, and mentorship.
- Intergenerational Knowledge Bridges – Fabian Kasi (Centenary Bank) with Ajay Kumar (Quality Chemicals), institutionalizing mentorship and reverse mentorship.
- Climate and Infrastructure Leadership – Proscovia Nabbanja (UNOC) with Silver Mugisha (NWSC), anchoring research in energy security, green transition, and infrastructure.
- Pan-African Digital and AI Advantage – Sylvia Mulinge (MTN Uganda) with Mumba Kalifungwa (Stanbic Bank), positioning Makerere as Africa’s digital and AI hub.
She pledged full government support, noting that the teams would convene in the Office of the President. “This summit is not ceremonial but a covenant,” she stressed.
The Minister’s Reflection
Hon. Balaam Barugahara, State Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development in charge of Children and Youth Affairs, emphasized that the summit was not a party but a process of transformation.
Drawing from personal experience, he recalled joining Makerere in 2000 and completing his degree in seven years due to balancing work, hustling for fees, and studying. He praised the university’s role in shaping his success and highlighted recent developments such as the renovation of Mary Stuart Hall and revamping the Main and Western gates, as milestones that have enhanced Makerere’s image. He equally applauded the curbing of staff and student unrest.
He noted that the summit aimed to facilitate networking, mentorship, career opportunities, and university development, signalling collective commitment to Uganda’s transformation.
Council’s Vision: A Legacy Re-imagined
Representing Makerere University Council Chairperson Ms. Lorna Magara, Prof. Sarah Ssali described the summit as a “historic alumni CEO investor round table” and a reaffirmation of Makerere’s role in Africa’s development. She described the university as a “cradle of leadership, innovation and resilience”, noting that the gathering’s objectives included fostering partnerships, showcasing research, launching a fundraising drive, and strengthening alumni engagement. Prof. Ssali emphasized that alumni relations must go beyond occasional financial contributions during events, to continuous communication and genuine relationships. “This summit marks the start of a journey, not just an isolated event,” she reechoed.
Vice Chancellor on Unlocking Makerere’s Potential
Reflecting on the theme of his bid for the Office of Vice Chancellor, “Unlocking the Potential of Makerere University,” Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe noted that while many only celebrate the absence of strikes, behind the calmness is a vibrant transformation.
He highlighted Makerere’s alumni strength, with over 20,000 CEOs globally, and underscored their contributions to Uganda’s economy, governance, health, sports, and research. “What would Uganda do without Makerere?” he pondered. Prof. Nawangwe quickly added that the moment was ripe for Makerere to collaborate more with diaspora alumni so as to tap into fast-evolving niches such as blockchain.
Convocation’s Strategic Role
MUC Chairperson CPA George Mugabi Turyamureeba outlined the Convocation’s mission to support the university’s growth and well-being. He highlighted innovations such as the Convocation House, the annual luncheon for first-class graduates and their parents, mentorship programs, and the MUC SACCO as initiatives that his team had established and promoted during the term so far. The Chairperson nevertheless urged the CEOs present to enable the Convocation have greater impact collaborating on existing as well as envisaged projects such as the Convocation Innovation Centre.
Adding her voice, Vice Chairperson Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto urged participants—described as “movers and shakers” of Uganda’s economy—to ensure that their decisions today would be celebrated by future generations.
Keynote Address: The Journey’s Just Began
In his keynote, Dr. Peter Kimbowa, Founder and Board Chair of the CEO Summit and Makerere alumnus, congratulated his alma mater on the initiative and reaffirmed the Convocation’s strategic role.
He emphasized that the Round Table Summit should not be seen as a one-time event but as an ongoing journey, echoing American Football Player Jalen Hurts’ mantra: “There’s no arrival. Only the journey.” Dr. Kimbowa defined the Convocation as a community of leaders, alumni, and faculty united by heritage and vision. He described it as a bridge connecting:
- The past to the future,
- Business and industry to academia, and
- Learning to market needs.
He stressed that the Convocation’s ultimate goal was to transform Makerere into a self-sustaining engine of innovation, opportunity, and national transformation. Drawing on corporate insights, he challenged participants to always ask “what is the next opportunity?” and warned against complacency. He unpacked the massive transformation purpose structured around five working teams which MUC has developed, whereby corporate chief executives from Uganda are called upon to lead collaboration with the university. He highlighted the importance of mobilizing talent to connect with successful Ugandan alumni, underscoring the need for local CEOs to harness talent in the diaspora. He emphasized deliberate action, mobilization of global alumni talent, and collaboration between CEOs and the university to sustain transformation
Panel Discussions and Triple Helix Framework
The day’s panel discussion featured Mr. Samuel Mwogeza (Executive Director, Stanbic Bank), Mr. Peter Sibukule (Headmaster, Busoga College Mwiri), Mr. Clovice Bright Irumba (Petroleum Authority of Uganda), and Ms. Grace Cherotich.
Mr. Mwogeza stressed the need to commercialize university prototypes and ideas. He explained that banks like Stanbic use their networks to strengthen innovators’ business cases, preparing them for market entry. Mr. Sibukule on the other hand called for transformation of mindsets right from secondary school level so that students are well primed to communicate, collaborate, uphold integrity and good work attitudes over qualifications in the marketplace. Mr. Irumba highlighted efforts by the PAU to create more opportunities for Ugandan entities to get involved in the oil and gas sector thanks to gaps highlighted by a study undertaken by the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC). Ms. Cherotich on the other hand invited CEOs to take interest in research outputs of the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) and reassured the audience of the Convocation’s readiness to provide a trusted platform for engagement with industry.
Contributing to the day’s discussion, Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo, Executive Director of the Uganda Vice Chancellors’ Forum (UVF), reminded the audience of the “Triple Helix” model and it’s underlying policy frameworks that in the recent past guided collaboration between universities, government, and the private sector. He observed Uganda’s lack of a robust framework, and called for policies that tie tax incentives to university support by corporations and other business entities.
Proceedings
The inaugural edition of the summit was moderated by Dr. Tayeebwa William from the Department of Journalism and Communication who doubles as Managing Editor Makerere University Press and Dr. Viola Karungi from the Department of Performing Arts and Film (PAF).
The PAF team took charge of the leading the anthems and day’s entertainment, which included a poetic presentation of the Makerere University Anthem.
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