General

Scientists to engage youth in community livelihood and health programs

Published

10 years ago

July 12, 2016

Some of the participants of 5th International Scientific Meeting held in the Makerere University Main Hall

To stimulate economic growth and development in African countries, participants at the 5^th International Scientific Meeting emphasized the need to actively engage the youth in designing and implementation of community livelihood and health programs.

“Youth comprise the highest population in most of the African countries. They are bright, energetic young leaders with a wide and open mind. This provides us with a golden opportunity and a need to harness their socio-economic potential, utilize their abilities in research and community development,” stressed the participants.

Convening in the Makerere University Main Hall, from 30^th June- 1^st July 2016, Scientists, Professors and Researchers from different parts of the world shared knowledge and ideas on how to reduce poverty, boost trade, enhance resilience of livelihoods, improve human livelihood, and ensure Africa’s health security.

Participants guided by the theme, Sparkling Innovations for Sustainable livelihoods and Health in Africa, showcased numerous research projects to demonstrate the impact of international and regional partnerships on Sustainable Livelihood and Health in Africa.

The 5^thInternational Scientific Meeting was organized by Makerere University College Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity under the sponsorship of Regional Universities Mediated Partnerships for Enhancing Livelihoods and Health in Africa (RUMPHELA). The conference was officially opened by the Makerere University Deputy Vice Chancellor in-charge of Academic Affairs, Associate Professor Ernest Okello Ogwang.

In a speech read by Associate Professor Okello Ogwang, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu said the is in line with the auspices of partners and the Government of Uganda.

“Through these partners, the College has conducted Short-term training in International Cultural Boma, International Summer Schools, International Scientific Meetings, workshops, in-training leadership and community service learning. Supported laboratories and to date, Government of Uganda has offered more support for the laboratories in Biosecurity and Zoonoses,” he said.

During the conference meeting, participants shared ideas on improving the animal sector with a particular consideration for animal health and safety, production and consumption of healthy and safe animal resource products, provision of healthy and safe grounds to people involved in animal production as well as tapping into the opportunities for job creation and employment.

To achieve this, participants commended the need to develop their scientific research and ideas in line with entrepreneurship and business development with an essential element of income generating skills and job creation. In addition, they encouraged fellow scientists to always provide factual data and information on the various research projects/programs in time to allow an effective and instrumental timeline for youth engagement.

Giving a key note address on improving livelihood, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Gender and Social Development, Mr. Puis Birigimana said that institutions should actively engage the youth when designing and implementing livelihood and community programs. Mr. Birigimana said the youth are more productive, business oriented with an influential effect on the African countries’ economic status.

“Youth constitute the highest population percentage in Uganda. Therefore leaving them behind creates a bigger gap between prosperity and stagnation. We need to make a fruitful engagement with them, especially in scientific programs. This is because youth are more productive, prefer agricultural activities and they are young, bright and energetic,” he said.

Citing the youth livelihood program designed and implemented by the Government of Uganda in order to reduce the high rate of unemployment and poverty among youth, Mr. Birigimana highlighted that the government’s strategy to actively engage the youth has yielded success in poverty alleviation in Uganda. He also mentioned that the project has witnessed more employment benefits, improved the incomes and instilled a saving culture among the youth.

“Always listen to the young people. Interact with them in a cool and humble way. I assure you it works very well. We used this strategy in the Youth Livelihood Program and we recorded success,” said the Permanent Secretary.

Highlighting the role of higher institutions of learning on human capital development, the Principal of Makerere University College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio security, Prof. John David Kabasa said that African countries should address human capacity in the current education system.

Besides designing youth centered livelihood programs, Prof. Kabasa said that the education system should provide the essential element of practical skills where a person is in position to work for oneself and change oneself to a transformative capital.

He reiterated the need to change the current education system of an African child urging that a single person should have several values and skills in addition to the general knowledge.

“Give the youth a livelihood not labor capacity because that was earlier given and no longer exists. As experts we need a paradigm shift. In this current generation, it does not matter how many resources you have. If you don’t know how to use the resources, they will never be enough,” he said.

Prof. Kabasa called for the vocationalization of the education system in Africa. According to him, the current education system has depended so much on infusing knowledge leaving humans with what he termed as malnourished human capacity.

‘’If we teach and lead today as we taught yesterday, we rob our children of tomorrow. There is therefore a need for higher institutions to change the ways of learning in order to deliver knowledge passed on following systematic manner. They need a different thinking package of competences in order to enhance livelihoods,” Prof. Kabasa explained.

The Dean, School of Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory Sciences at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Associate Professor Frank Mwiine recommended the need for Uganda to host several conferences similar to the 5^thInternational Scientific Meeting to provide solutions to emerging societal challenges.

“As you may be aware, Uganda is facing many challenges like any other country in the world. We, scientists should commit ourselves to transforming our societies in order to have a better and meaningful life,” he advised.

Associate Professor Mwiine thanked the organizing committee for ensuring that the 5^th International Scientific Conference was a success. The conference meeting climaxed with a certificate awarding ceremony.

This year’s meeting started with a summer course for international students and collaborators from 6^th -9^th June 2016 to expose participants to one health concepts, food production, biosecurity, hygiene/ safety and public health. This was followed by community outreach activities for two weeks in the Districts of Kampala, Tororo, Mbale, Bukedea, Soroti, Kaberamaido, kibale, Kasese and Kiruhura. Participants were also able to share their field experience in the two days (28^thand 29^th June 2016) international cultural Boma.

Since its inauguration in 2011, the International Scientific Meeting has enabled the College Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-security record more achievements including the transformation of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine to an industrial value chain geared College.

Article by: Mak- Public Relations Office

General

Graduation marks the next phase of accountability, graduates told

Published

21 hours ago

February 25, 2026

Carol Kasujja Adii

Left to Right: Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe,Prof. Nicholas Ozor, Rt. Hon. Daniel Kidega, Dr. Lorna Magara, Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, Ms. Anthea Ampaire and Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga in the academic procession. 76th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CAES, CoCIS, CEES and School of Law. Commencement Speaker-Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya. 24th February 202, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

“A degree is not a finish line. Graduation is not the end of learning, It is the beginning of accountability,” Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network Nairobi, Kenya (ATPS), said.

Delivering a keynote address under the theme ‘Knowledge with purpose’, during Makerere University’s 76^th graduation ceremony on Tuesday 24^th February, Prof Ozor, challenged graduates to see their degrees not as status symbols, but as instruments of responsibility.

In his speech, he painted a candid picture of the world the graduates are stepping into, one marked by climate change, technological disruption, inequality, food insecurity and the rapid spread of misinformation. Yet rather than framing these challenges as obstacles, he described them as opportunities for purposeful leadership.

“Into this world, you step, armed with knowledge, credentials, and potential. Your degrees do not make you better than others. They make you responsible for others,” Prof Ozor, said.

Addressing graduands from College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES)
College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), College of Education and External Studies (CEES) and School of Law (SoL), Prof. Ozor tailored his message to each field of study.

To graduates of the School of Law, he described the legal profession as a moral calling, urging them to use the law to protect the vulnerable and uphold justice with courage.

“Uganda, Africa, and the world do not need lawyers who only know how to argue. They need lawyers who know why they argue. Use the law to protect the weak, not intimidate them. Use your knowledge to defend justice, not delay it. Let integrity define your reputation not merely your résumé,” Prof Ozor, said.

For graduands who might feel that shortcuts will be tempting and silence will feel safer than truth, Prof. Ozor reminded them that justice does not need clever people, but courageous ones.

To the College of Education and External Studies, he underscored the transformative power of teachers, reminding them that classrooms shape nations long before policies do.

“Every nation rises and falls on the quality of its teachers. Never underestimate the power of a classroom. Teach not only for examinations, but for understanding. Teach not only content, but character. Teach learners how to think not what to think. Education is quiet work but its impact echoes across generations,” Prof Ozor, noted.

He called upon graduands from the College of Computing and Information Sciences, to use technology to solve African problems, not merely to imitate foreign solutions.

“Technology is powerful, but it is not neutral. Every line of code carries values. Every system you design affects real lives. Build for inclusion. Build for accessibility. Build for truth. Do not let innovation outrun ethics. The future will not belong to those who know the most technology, but to those who use it wisely,” He noted.

During the ceremony, Prof Ozor announced that the African Technology Policy Studies Network is offering PhD scholarships and postdoctoral fellowships in Artificial Intelligence, inviting deeper collaboration with Makerere.

For graduates of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, he highlighted their critical role at the intersection of sustainability and survival, calling on them to blend indigenous knowledge with scientific innovation to secure Africa’s food systems and protect its ecosystems.

In closing, he reminded graduands that their integrity will open doors their degrees cannot, their humility will teach them lessons success never will, and their resilience will matter more than their grades.

Five principles to be remembered:

Embrace lifelong learning. The world changes too fast for static knowledge.
Choose purpose over comfort. Impact matters more than income.
Build character before career. Skills get you hired; character sustains you.
Serve something larger than yourself. Give back to your communities and your country.
Believe in Africa, and act. Do not wait for solutions from elsewhere. Be the solution.

General

Over 9,200 to graduate at Makerere University’s 76th Graduation

Published

1 day ago

February 24, 2026

Carol Kasujja Adii

The Chief Guest-Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu who represented the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports followed by Mace Bearer-Ms. Anthea Ampaire and the Chancellor-Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga makes her way into the Freedom Square. 76th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CAES, CoCIS, CEES and School of Law. Commencement Speaker-Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya. 24th February 202, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Pomp and colour defined the opening day of the Makerere University’s 76^th Graduation Ceremony as thousands gathered to celebrate academic excellence and new beginnings.

The historic ceremony has brought together scholars, families, friends and industry partners in a vibrant celebration of achievement and possibility. Throughout the four-day event, the University will confer degrees and award diplomas to 9,295 graduands in recognition of their dedication and hard work.

Among the graduates, 213 will receive Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, 2,503 will graduate with Master’s degrees, and 6,343 will earn Bachelor’s degrees. In addition, 206 students will graduate with postgraduate diplomas, while 30 will be awarded undergraduate diplomas.

Of the total number of graduands, 4,262 are female and 5,033 are male. According to Vice Chancellor, this marks the first time in 15 years that male graduands have outnumbered their female counterparts.

The best overall graduand in the Sciences, Esther Ziribaggwa, graduated on the opening day with the Bachelor of Agricultural and Rural Innovation and an impressive Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.77.

Best Overall Student in the Sciences-Esther Ziribaggwa accompanied by her parents and the Chairperson Convocation-Mr. George Turyamureeba receives a cheque from the Chancellor. 76th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CAES, CoCIS, CEES and School of Law. Commencement Speaker-Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya. 24th February 202, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Best Overall Student in the Sciences-Esther Ziribaggwa accompanied by her parents and the Chairperson Convocation-Mr. George Turyamureeba receives a cheque from the Chancellor.***

The ceremony marks a proud moment for Makerere University as it continues to nurture top-tier professionals across diverse fields.

While presiding over the graduation, the State Minister for Primary Education, Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, on behalf of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, pointed out that Makerere University is a model institution, where leaders are nurtured, scholars are sharpened, and where dreams have been given direction.

In her address, Hon. Museveni, highlighted Government’s deliberate investment in research, innovation, and infrastructure to strengthen higher education in Uganda.

“The establishment of the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (RIF), supports high-impact research and innovation that directly contributes to national priorities and development. Through this initiative, thousands of researchers and innovators have pursued practical, scalable solutions that are transforming communities and key sectors across Uganda,” Mrs Museveni, said.

The Minister also noted that Parliament’s approved a USD 162 million concessional loan to upgrade science, technology, and innovation infrastructure at Makerere University. The funding will facilitate the construction of modern laboratories, smart classrooms, and state-of-the-art facilities for Engineering and Health Sciences, investments expected to position the University firmly within the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

“Government has embarked on the construction of a National Stadium at Makerere University and other institutions of higher learning across the country. This will promote physical education, strengthen talent identification, and boost investment in the sports sector,”

Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu. 76th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CAES, CoCIS, CEES and School of Law. Commencement Speaker-Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya. 24th February 202, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu.***

Turning to the graduands, the Minister encouraged them to see themselves not merely as job seekers, but as job creators and solution-makers.

Uganda and Africa need innovators who will modernize agriculture; engineers who will build quality infrastructure; healthcare professionals who will strengthen health systems; and educators who will inspire the next generation,” the Honourable Minister said.

She reminded graduates that they are entering a rapidly changing world shaped by Artificial Intelligence, climate change, and shifting global markets. To thrive, she advised them to remain adaptable, creative, and committed to lifelong learning.

She also encouraged graduates interested in entrepreneurship to tap into the Government’s Parish Development Model, which provides community-based financing and production support.

Quoting Proverbs 3:5–6, the Minister urged the graduates to trust in God as they embark on their next chapter.

She extended special appreciation to the Mastercard Foundation for its 13-year partnership with Makerere University in expanding access to education and empowering young people in Uganda and beyond.

In his speech, the Chancellor of Makerere University, Dr Crispus Kiyonga, urged graduands to harness research, innovation and technology to drive Uganda’s transformation.

Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga (Right) congratulates PhD Graduate-Dr. Patrick Emmanuel Muinda (Left). 76th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CAES, CoCIS, CEES and School of Law. Commencement Speaker-Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya. 24th February 202, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga (Right) congratulates PhD Graduate-Dr. Patrick Emmanuel Muinda (Left).***

“This is a milestone in your lives. You have invested time, discipline and hard work to attain these qualifications. It is important that you derive value from this achievement, not only for yourselves, but for your families and for society.” Dr Kiyonga, said.

Dr. Kiyonga expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for its continued financial support to the University, particularly the funding allocated under MakRIF, which he described as critical in strengthening the institution’s research capacity.

“Research plays a very vital role in the development of any community. Makerere as the oldest University in the country is doing a significant amount of research, However, more work is required to mobilize additional resources to further strengthen research at the University.” Dr Kiyonga, noted.

Acknowledging the challenges of a competitive job market, Dr. Kiyonga encouraged graduates to think beyond traditional employment pathways.

“It is true that the job market may not absorb all of you immediately. But the knowledge you have acquired is empowering. You can create work for yourselves, individually or in teams.” Dr Kiyonga, said.

He advised the graduands to embrace discipline, integrity and adaptability in the workplace, and to take advantage of technology and digital platforms to innovate and respond to societal challenges.

“Every development challenge presents an opportunity. Believe that you can apply your knowledge to create solutions with impact.” He said.

Addressing the congregation, the Vice Chancellor, Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, congratulated the graduands, particularly staff and societal leaders on their respective achievements.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. 76th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CAES, CoCIS, CEES and School of Law. Commencement Speaker-Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya. 24th February 202, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.***

“I congratulate all our graduands upon reaching this milestone. In a special way I congratulate the members of staff, Ministers, and Members of Parliament that are graduating today as well as children and spouses of members of staff,” Prof Nawangwe, said.

In his speech, Prof Nawangwe, recognized outstanding PhD students, particularly members of staff. who completed their PhDs in record time without even taking leave from their duties.

He called upon graduates not to despise humble beginnings but rather reflect on the immense opportunities around them and rise to the occasion as entrepreneurs.

“You are all graduating with disciplines that are needed by society. We have equipped you with the knowledge and skills that will make you employable or create your own businesses and employ others. Do not despair if you cannot find employment. Instead, reflect on the immense opportunities around you and rise to the occasion as an entrepreneur,” Prof Nawangwe, said.

Prof Nawangwe called upon the graduands of PhDs to use their degrees to transform the African continent.

“As you leave the gates of Makerere I urge you to put to good use the knowledge you have received from one of the best universities in the World to improve yourselves, your families, your communities, your Country and humanity. Let people see you and know that you are a Makerere alumnus because of the way you carry yourself in society with dignity and integrity. Put your trust in God and honour your parents and opportunities will be opened for you,” Prof Nawangwe, said.

Delivering a key note address, Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network Nairobi, Kenya ((ATPS). Reminded the graduates that a degree is not a finish line but the beginning of accountability. “The world is a complex, fast changing and deeply unequal. Degrees make you responsible for others not better than them,” Prof Ozor, said.

General

76th Graduation Highlights

Published

2 days ago

February 24, 2026

Mak Editor

Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu and Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga share a light moment. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The 76^th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University will be held from Tuesday 24^th to Friday 27^th February, 2026. A total of 213 PhDs (87 female, 126 male), 2,503 Masters (1,087 female, 1,416 male), 206 Postgraduate Diplomas (80 female, 126 male), 6,343 Undergraduate Degrees (2,999 female, 3,344 male), and 30 Undergraduate Diplomas (9 female, 21 male) will be graduating from all the Colleges.

Ms. Sarah Aloyo and Ms. Nakato Dorothy both students of the Bachelor of Procurement and Supply Chain Management emerged as the best in the Humanities and Best Overall students with a CGPA of 4.93. Mr. Ssewalu Abdul, a Bachelor of Leisure and Hospitality Management student emerged second best in the Humanities with a CGPA 4.90. Ms. Esther Ziribaggwa emerged as the best student in the Sciences with a CGPA of 4.77 in the Bachelor of Agricultural and Rural Innovation, while Mr. Simon Mungudit emerged second best in the Sciences with a CGPA of 4.76 in the Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production.

Commencement Speakers

Day 1 – Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya
Day 2 – Prof. Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson Makerere University Endowment Fund Board
Day 3 – Dr. Patricia Adongo Ojangole, Managing Director, Uganda Development Bank Limited
Day 4 – Ms. Reeta Roy, Former President & Chief Executive Officer, Mastercard Foundation

The 76^th Graduation Ceremony will be held at the Freedom Square following the schedule below:

Tuesday, 24^th February, 2026
College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES)
College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS)
College of Education and External Studies (CEES)
School of Law (SoL)

Livestream Link for Day 1: https://youtube.com/live/wVGPA0FJ9pU

Wednesday, 25^th February, 2026
College of Health Sciences (CHS)
College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS)
College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-security (CoVAB)
School of Public Health (SPH)

Thursday, 26^th February, 2026
Makerere University Business School (MUBS)
College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS)

Friday, 27^th February, 2026
College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT)
College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS)
Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS)
Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR)