General
Highlights of the 66th Graduation Ceremony at Mak
The Makerere University 66th Graduation Ceremony successfully closed after a four day period, 19th– 22nd January 2016, during which the Chancellor, Prof. Ezra Suruma conferred degrees and awarded diplomas to 14,318 grdauands. The breakdown is as follows: 1,444 graduands from the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS); 1,909 graduands from the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), 516 from the College of Health Sciences (CHS), 3,853 from Makerere University Business School (MUBS), 3,064 graduands- College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS); 1,292- College of Education and External Studies (CEES); 628- College of Engineering, Design Art and Technology (CEDAT), 349- College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), 268- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio Security (CoVAB), 688- CAES and 308 from the School of Law.
The ceremony closed with 64 attaining Doctorates and 286 first class degrees. The overall best student, Tabani Rashid, with a Bachelor of Business Administration from MUBS had a CGPA of 4.91. The best student in Sciences, Aine Brian Willy, had a CGPA of 4.84, from the College of Computing and Information Sciences.
In his message to the graduates, the Chancellor emphasized the need to embrace volunteerism. “I encourage you to always embrace the spirit of volunteerism. As a volunteer, you may not eventually be considered for employment in that particular organisation. But even so, the most important thing that you should value is the knowledge, skills and experience that you have acquired. Use any opportunity as a volunteer to build that much needed experience that all jobs require,” he said.
The Chancellor further raised optimism for employment opportunities in the much anticipated oil sector in Uganda arguing that Uganda will reach full employment with oil prospects. “This may sound overly optimistic by all standards but allow me to share my reason for this. In my book, “Advancing Uganda’s Economy: A Personal Account,” I share my concerns on unemployment and the plight of the young people. Nevertheless, my philosophy of full employment is premised on a well-managed oil sector and its correlation with job creation and socio-economic transformation,” he said.
Chancellor Suruma was further grateful to the advances across all Colleges of Makerere University, as presented by the Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu. According to the Vice Chancellor, it is these continuous breakthroughs in research and innovations that have seen Makerere University reach third position on the continent as per a Times Higher Education Report, January 2016.
The Vice Chancellor pointed out a number of developments in the Colleges including the recently launched MV Mulimi tractor from CAES, breakthroughs in HIV/AIDS and malaria research from CHS, AFRISA model in CoVAB, Moot Court Competitions from the School of Law, Kiira Motors Corporation from CEDAT, a mushroom training facility at CoNAS among others.
“To all our Graduands today, I bring you warm greetings and congratulations from the entire Makerere University community upon successfully fulfilling the requirements for the award of degrees and diplomas of Makerere University. Your success is indeed the joy of Makerere University. This is your achievement but you should always remember the sacrifices others have made to ensure that you stand here today. Therefore to all parents and guardians, we thank you for the support and sacrifices that you have made throughout the period of study of your children to make sure that they succeed. The best gift you can give your children is education, and you have done so. We thank you and may the Almighty God bless you abundantly,” he added.
“May I also express my sincere appreciation to the entire Staff of Makerere University for their dedicated service to this great institution and the entire nation. Your contribution towards this nation is priceless and Makerere University is forever grateful,” he said.
The ceremony was organized by the Makerere University Ceremonies Committee headed by Prof. Anthony Mugisha, and had indefatigable input from all members of Staff of Makerere University.
Compiled by Marion Alina
General
NCBA Commits UGX 1.45 Billion to Makerere Marathon, Pledges Five-Year Support for Inclusive Education
By Eve Nakyanzi and Atwenda Nancy
Makerere University has officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the platinum sponsor for the 2025 Makerere University Marathon (#MakRun2025), marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable student support. The partnership was formally announced during a colourful event held at the university, attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund, and NCBA Bank Uganda CEO, Mr. Mark Muyobo.
NCBA Bank Uganda’s UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship over the next five years is the largest corporate contribution to the Makerere Marathon to date. It underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting quality education, community development, and equity. Mr. Muyobo said that, “We are driven by the desire to leave every community better than we found it”. He added that the goal is to empower disadvantaged students to live without limitations, describing this initiative as a bold stride toward establishing a world-class international marathon.
“This is more than just a sponsorship, it is a strategic partnership built on shared values,” Dr. Kigozi remarked. “With this support, we are positioned to establish a fully equipped Disability Support Unit and a sustainable pool of funds to assist economically disadvantaged students.”
The marathon, slated under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future,” seeks to unify students, alumni, corporate entities, and professional athletes in pursuit of a common cause. At its core, the MakRun2025 promotes active lifestyles, social inclusion, and a sense of communal responsibility.
“It’s not just a race,” Prof. Nawangwe emphasized. “It is a movement to break barriers, change lives, and build a resilient, inclusive university.”
The marathon’s broader impact includes fundraising for students living with disabilities and those facing financial hardship, contributing directly to the university’s Endowment Fund.
A major highlight of the event is the introduction of a full 42.2-kilometer marathon—bringing international standards to the annual run. Organizers have promised a professional, accredited experience with traffic-free routes and ample support for runners.
“This edition will elevate the MakRun into a world-class event,” said Mr. Muyobo. “We are proud to support Makerere University in realizing its dream of a globally recognized marathon that reflects Uganda’s commitment to education and inclusivity.”
Beyond the race itself, the event will feature a vibrant line-up of activities, including music, drama, and games for all age groups. It is designed to foster a festival-like atmosphere that welcomes every member of the community.
Organizers and university leaders have extended an open invitation to students, staff, alumni, corporate partners, and Kampala residents to participate, cheer, or donate to the cause.
“Every step taken is a step towards hope for a student,” Dr. Kigozi stated. “Together, we are building a Makerere that cares, includes, and uplifts.”
The partnership is expected to significantly enhance the university’s ability to support underprivileged students and improve campus infrastructure for students with disabilities. It also sets the tone for future collaborations that align with the values of compassion, excellence, and innovation. The fifth edition of the MakRun is scheduled to take place on August 17th, 2025.
The Writers are Interns in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University
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