General
Makerere celebrates the late Bernard Onyango
On Thursday 17th October 2013, The Makerere University community paid their last respects to the longest-serving Academic Registrar, a man full of honour and integrity, the Late Mr. Bernard Onyango. Born on 11th January 1930 into a family of ten brothers and one sister to parents Reverand Andereya Ochwo and Lakeri Ajwang Abbo, Mr. Bernard Onyango joined the University of East Africa in 1958 and in 1970 when Makerere University became an independent National University of the Republic of Uganda, he became its first Academic Registrar. The late Bernard Onyango held this position until his retirement from University service in 1992.
Throughout his career and life, Mr. Bernard Onyango was a mentor and a source of inspiration who had made a remarkable difference in people’s lives. Thus the Makerere University St. Augustine Chapel was filled to capacity as the congregation assembled to thank God for this valuable gift on earth in the name of Bernard Onyango.
In honour of the great life he lived, the Master of Ceremony, Mr. Charles Owor of the Judicial Service Commission together with Dr. Fred Tanga Odoi-the Minister of Tertiary and Higher Education in the Tieng-Adhola Cultural Institution introduced to the congregation the renowned academicians, professionals and politicians serving at the national and international levels who were trained and mentored by Mr. Bernard Onyango.
The Cardinal of Uganda, His Eminence Emmanuel Wamala presided over the Requiem Mass assisted by Msg.
Rev. Fr. Lawrence Kanyike and Rev. Fr. Joseph Ddungu, St. Augustine Chapel, Makerere University.
Ms Sharon Onyango-Obbo read the First Reading, from the book of Wisdom 4, 7-15. Ms Charlenne Onyango-Obbo took the second reading, 2 Timothy 4:1-8. The congregation also listened to the Holy Gospel according to John 14:1-6.
During the sermon, His Eminence, Cardinal Emmanuel Wamala thanked the congregation for bidding farewell to their departed colleague in such a memorable way. “Your presence here is testimony that Bernard Onyango lived a fulfilling life. The Faith he professed is the faith that he has carried forward throughout his career and life.” praised Cardinal Wamala. “His faith guided him in his life and it is the faith which he passed on to his children. May the Soul of Bernard rest in eternal peace,” he concluded.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu in his message read to the congregation by the University Secretary– Mr. David Kahundha-Muhwezi appreciated the late Bernard Onyango for having kept Makerere’s Academic reputation spotlessly clean and scandal-free especially during the turbulent 70s and early to mid-eighties. “We at Makerere University compare the Late Mr. Bernard Onyango to the biblical tree planted by the streams of water, which brings forth fruit both in and out of season,” read the condolence message. The Vice Chancellor’s message further paid tribute to Prof. J. Oloka-Onyango for preserving his Father’s legacy, “We are proud of Prof. Oloka-Onyango for keeping Mr. Onyango’s torch high and burning through his great work at the School of Law and the Human Rights and Peace Centre,” added Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu’s message.
The Chancellor, Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera in his remarks expressed his gratitude at being able to bear witness to the great life that Mr. Bernard Onyango had lived. In honour of the late he said, “You young people have nothing to lose when people stand up and say you did what you were expected to do properly. Make sure that the teaching service you provide and grading of certificates is done properly,” said Prof. Kagonyera.
Speaking about his departed friend and Colleague, the former two-time Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. Asavia Wandira fondly reminisced, “Bernard Onyango and I first met in 1958 in Mbale as Teachers who were marking exams. Little did I know that I would later become his great friend,” he recalled. The two later returned to Uganda on the eve of Uganda’s Independence to face the Pan-Africanism era. Regarding Mr. Onyango’s service to Makerere, Prof. Wandira had this to share, “In 1963, Bernard Onyango was appointed Deputy Registrar and in 1964, Prof. Wandira was also invited to become Secretary 
and Registrar of Makerere University. In 1965, Onyango became the Registrar of the University of East Africa and in 1969, Academic Registrar. Fare thee well Bernard Onyango,” concluded Prof. Asavia Wandira.
Other former colleagues like Prof. Raphael Owori, a Professor of Pathology and former Dean, Faculty of Medicine, Makerere University and Prof. Charles Olweny, Vice Chancellor, Uganda Martyrs University (UMU), Nkozi, also paid tribute to their great friend.
“Bernard Onyango was a great teacher. He taught me history at St. Peters College Tororo and I got a distinction. Bernard was also Best man at my wedding in 1967,” shared Prof. Olweny. He also shared that the late Bernard Onyango was a man of many firsts. In addition to being the first Academic Registrar of Makerere University, he was also the founding Academic Registrar of UMU, Nkozi in 1993. In concluding his remarks, Prof. Olweny then pointed out why they were all gathered at the Mass, “Firstly, we are here to celebrate the life of a great achiever and secondly, he was absolutely incorruptible,” summed up Prof. Olweny.
The Chairperson of Council, Eng. Dr. Chares Wana-Etyem then shared about his life at Makerere, “I joined Makerere University as a student in 1972, and I am happy that the quality of Bernard Onyango has been passed on to his offspring,” he remarked. “Two of my children have been taught by his son- Prof. Oloka Onyango and they have informed me that he is a great teacher,” added the Chairperson of Council. He further shared that the reforms in the education system had been made possible thanks to the late Bernard Onyango’s input.
Prof. Tarsis Kabwegyere who represented the Government at the Mass appreciated the role played by Mr. Bernard Onyango at Makerere University saying, “I came to Makerere in 1965 and I am happy to be associated with quality. I appeal to the Staff at Makerere not to sign for a degree for which someone has not worked.” He informed the congregation that the late Mr. Bernard Onyango was awarded a medal in recognition of his service to the Nation in May 2012. “I appeal to the family to write a memoir of Bernard Onyango in remembrance of him so that the young generation reads about this quality high achiever and incorruptible person,” he challenged.
The Kattikiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga who was at Makerere during the late Bernard Onyango’s tenure as Academic Registrar remarked, “We were truly fascinated by his humility and simplicity. He emphasized integrity, which nurtures truthfulness,” he remarked, “It is justice that nurtures unity, then patriotism will follow.” The Kattikiro also reiterated the need for the late Mr. Bernard Onyango’s biography to be written.
Speaking on behalf of his siblings Christine Awor, Simon Peter Owor Onyango, Patricia Onyango, and Bernard Paul Onyango, Prof. Joseph Andrew Oloka Onyango appreciated the great wealth left behind by their ten paternal uncles and aunt. “They were very wealthy, not in material things, but in things you cannot attach a value. They were rich in integrity, honour, humour and loved everyone,” he remarked. “I am extremely honoured to have been chosen to say something on behalf of the Bernard Onyango family,” he said. On a lighter note, Prof. Oloka Onyango shared that his father was an
aspiring musician whose favourite song had the Luganda lyrics “… mazima nkwagala era gwe numba emu…” meaning, “truth be told, I love you dearly and you are my number one”. He also once remarked that after striving for over seventy years to be famous, he was finally content after a US President with similar initials took over the presidency.
With regard to his Mother, Mrs. Lucy Kahambo Onyango, Prof. Oloka Onyango fondly remarked, “Besides every great man is a great woman, a princess.” He thanked their mother for being, “a hands-on, pragmatic organizer behind the great academician throughout their fifty six years of marriage.” He also thanked her for her advice to the children to marry wisely, which advice they each took to heart.
The late Bernard Onyango was laid to rest on Saturday 19th October 2013 at Kiyeyi Village, Tororo district.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Story by: Ritah Namisango and Mark Wamai, Public Relations Office
Photos by: Elias Tuhereze, Public Relations Office
General
Makerere University Convocation Graduation Luncheon Honors CEDAT Staff and Outstanding Students
Several staff members from the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) were recognized for their exceptional contributions in research and teaching during the Makerere University Convocation 75th graduation luncheon, held on Friday, January 17th, 2025. The event celebrated the achievements of top students, teachers, and researchers, with special awards presented to CEDAT staff for their outstanding performance and dedication.
Assoc. Prof. Dorothy Okello and Mr. Ayor Andrew Semakula received the Teacher of the Year Award, acknowledging their exemplary contributions to education and their significant impact on students. The recognition highlights the commitment and excellence of CEDAT staff in advancing the fields of engineering, design, art, and technology.
The Senior Career Award went toProf. Kirabira John Baptist, Prof. Olupot Wilberforce and Assoc. Prof. Michael Luswataall from the Mechanical Engineering Department.
Dr.VianeyYiga, Dr. SemiyagaSwaib, Mr. Manga Musa got the Mid-Career Award, while Ms. Namuju Dona Lillian, Ms. Wesonga Racheal and Ms. NamakulaHidaaya received the Early Career Award. At the same event, thirty of the best performing students were also recognized.
The Makerere University Convocation 75th graduation luncheon celebrated outstanding achievements, with a strong emphasis on recognizing excellence through awards. Colonel Edith Nakalema, Senior Presidential Advisor and Head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, delivered a keynote address focused on integrity and creativity for graduates.Col. Nakalema stressed the need for graduates to uphold high moral standards and professionalism, urging them to focus on creativity and integrity, especially in the age of AI, to achieve true success.
The event, themed “Celebrating Excellence and Creating Path to Success,” honored the top performers from each college. Col. Nakalema congratulated the graduates and highlighted the importance of making positive contributions to society. Other speakers, including Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, and Hon. Godfrey Baluku Kabyanga, Minister of State for ICT and National Guidance, emphasized the role of universities in socio-economic transformation and the importance of research.
Written by Harriet Musinguzi, Principle Communication Officer, College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology
By the Program Communication Team
On Friday, January 17, 2025, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars celebrated a significant milestone as they graduated from Makerere University. The day was filled with enthusiasm and pride as 36 dedicated students completed their Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program journey. This achievement reflects their hard work and commitment and paves the way for new opportunities in their future endeavours.
At the event, Mr. Adrian Bukenya, the Country Director of Mastercard Foundation Uganda and the chief guest, encouraged the new graduates to create jobs for their peers rather than solely seeking employment for themselves.
“As fresh graduates, your first step shouldn’t be simply searching for jobs. Instead, focus on creating job opportunities for your peers. The university degree you have earned puts you in a unique position. The knowledge and skills you’ve gained and the experiences and connections you have made empower you to thrive in this country,” Mr. Bukenya remarked.
Mr. Bukenya further expressed his gratitude to Makerere University‘s leadership and acknowledged the profound relationship the University shares with the Foundation. He emphasized that the partnership with Makerere University was essential to the Foundation.
“The Mastercard Foundation values its partnership with Makerere University, as the university continues to produce exceptional talent essential for Uganda’s development. The country would struggle to achieve its national aspirations without this contribution,” noted Mr. Bukenya.
Mr. Bukenya emphasized the core mission of the Mastercard Foundation, which is to alleviate poverty in areas where it is most prevalent and to enhance access to education. He pointed out that the Scholars Program is a fundamental component of this initiative. He noted that earning a degree is a valuable tool and a testament to an individual’s ability to learn, perform tasks, and achieve results within structured and organized frameworks.
He further stressed the Foundation’s commitment to empowering young people to lead and transform Africa.
“The Mastercard Foundation has made a strategic commitment to focus uniquely on Africa, home to the world’s youngest population. Through its ‘Young Africa Works’ strategy, the Foundation supports entrepreneurship and enterprise development among young people, empowering them to shape the future of their communities and the continent.” emphasized Mr. Bukenya.
Speaking on behalf of the University Management, Professor Buyinza Mukadasi, the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic Affairs and Chairperson of the Steering Committee for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, congratulated the program for achieving an impressive 94% graduation completion rate.
“The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University has graduated 964 scholars—78% female and 22% male—representing 94% of the 1,032 recruits from Phase One. We expect to achieve 100% graduation for all Phase One scholars at the 76th Graduation Ceremony next year.” Prof. Buyinza remarked.
Prof. Buyinza expressed gratitude to the Mastercard Foundation for its ongoing support of the university, which has significantly added value, particularly in educating young people from vulnerable communities.
“We sincerely thank the Mastercard Foundation for partnering with Makerere University to educate and empower the next generation of leaders and change-makers. The statistics regarding the number of young people supported and the impact that the program’s alumni have made in society are a testament to the energy and potential of young individuals when provided with the right education, guidance, and support.” Prof. Buyinza pointed out.
Program Director Prof. Justine Namaalwa emphasized her team’s commitment to ensuring the successful operation of the Scholars Program at Makerere University for years to come.
“Makerere University and the nation greatly appreciate the Mastercard Foundation for its generosity and foresight, which continue to transform human capital in Africa. There is no doubt that your vision for Africa is being realized. We are committed to this mission, even as we enter phase two of the program,” noted Prof. Namaalwa.
Prof. Namaalwa expressed gratitude to the University Management, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Nawangwe, for their support and commitment to the Scholars Program. She pointed out that the strong backing from the university management has enabled the Program to meet its goals and succeed at the University.
“I sincerely thank the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, and the entire University Management and the governing structures of the Program for their effective leadership, which continues to yield positive results from our strong partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.” Prof. Namaalwa pointed out.
Prof. Namaalwa equally appreciated the graduates for helping achieve the Mastercard Foundation’s goals, which aims to educate and empower the next generation of African leaders. She noted that Makerere University has begun implementing the second phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which will span the next ten years. In this phase, the Mastercard Foundation has committed to providing scholarships to 1,000 academically talented youth facing economic hardships, enabling them to access quality education at Makerere University.
She asserted that the Mastercard Foundation prioritizes three key transition pathways: formal employment, entrepreneurship, and further education. She urged the graduates to remain active on all the program’s social media platforms, especially the Alumni WhatsApp platform, as it will be a vital channel for sharing ongoing opportunities from the Mastercard Foundation and other partners.
Ms Aida Aol, the mother of graduate Mr Okello Godfrey, expressed gratitude on behalf of parents and guardians. She thanked the Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University for providing her son and other vulnerable young people with the opportunity to study at one of the best universities in Uganda. Ms. Aol highlighted that she had lost hope for her son’s university education due to financial constraints.
“I cannot thank Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University enough for providing our children with the opportunity to attend one of the best universities in the country. Many of us parents could not afford to send our children here because we did not have the resources to pay for their education,” Ms. Aol remarked.
Ms. Aol stated that she lost her husband when her son was only four years old, and she had since committed herself to ensuring he completed both elementary and high school. However, she reached a critical point where she could no longer afford to support his university education.
Graduates speak out
Awien Rose Madot, a Journalism and Communication graduate, expressed her gratitude to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for transforming her life. The program enabled her to achieve her academic goals and instilled in her a strong sense of responsibility to use her degree to create positive change in the world.
“Accessing higher education can often feel like a distant dream for refugees like me. However, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has served as a powerful beacon of hope. It clearly demonstrates that education is a vital tool for empowerment and transformation, even in the face of adversity. The Program has provided us with financial resources, as well as invaluable mentorship, guidance, and a strong support network for all the scholars involved,” said Madot.
Dr. Raphael Kasuku, a dental surgery graduate, pledged to continue the spirit of giving back to his community by offering dental services. He urged his fellow graduates to utilize the knowledge and skills they acquired through their education to uplift their communities.
“To my fellow graduates, this moment marks not just the end of a chapter but the beginning of an exciting new journey. The world ahead is vast and brimming with opportunities that we are ready to seize. It won’t always be easy, but we must remember that the resilience, determination, and passion that brought us here will continue to propel us forward as we strive to serve our communities.” Dr. Kasuku remarked.
The colourful event was a vibrant gathering held in the gardens of the University Guest House, bringing together a diverse community of program stakeholders. Attendees included members of the University management and the Steering and Selection Committees. Mentors of the Scholars Program, parents and guardians, and alumni also contributed to the inspiring atmosphere. Additionally, representatives from the Mastercard Foundation and program partners joined the celebration, along with numerous well-wishers who continue to support the Program’s mission.
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