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Thousands Run for Mak Students’ Centre

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On Sunday 14th May 2017, thousands of participants comprising staff, students, alumni, friends and well-wishers assembled in the Freedom Square for the Makerere University Endowment Fund Run, aimed at mobilizing funds for the construction of the Students’ Centre.

The Mak Students’ Centre that will enhance the quality of students’ life and experience is estimated to cost UGX.15 billion. The Chief Runner, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga-the Speaker of the Parliament of the Republic of Uganda, who is an alumnus of Makerere University flagged off the 10km route runners while the Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Ezra Suruma flagged off the 5km route runners.

Makerere University Endowment Fund selected the Students’ Centre as its premier project. The Centre reflects our unwavering commitment to improving the students’ academic experience and the quality of life generated by the conducive environment while at the University. The Students Centre will serve as the collective place that reflects dynamism of the 21st century student in the digital age. It will correct the imbalance in access to socio-cultural amenities that was created by the increase in student numbers,” remarked Dr. Martin Jerome Aliker, Chairperson-Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF).Participants run through Hajji Musa Kasule Road

The Students’ Centre will entail a one stop student information centre, state of the Art Auditorium worth 2000 seating capacity and Wall of Fame, Conference facilities, Internet Kiosks, Memorabilia Shop/Bookshop, Recreational/Sports Arena, commercial and shopping centres, as well as entertainment and social areas.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu applauded the Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) for initiating the MakRun fundraising drive. He saluted 10km and 5km route runners for participating in the Makerere University Endowment Fund Run (MakRun 2017), a starting point of engagement with the stakeholders to mobilize resources for the Students’ Centre project.

“I am confident that together, we can set up a multipurpose facility for our students. We can demonstrate that what seems impossible to us as individuals can be achieved if we choose to set our hearts and minds to it. No contribution is too small or insignificant,” said the Vice Chancellor.

Fully aware that more financial contributions in form of donations, sponsorships and sale of tickets were still flowing in, Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu revealed that on the eve of the Makerere University Endowment Fund Run (MakRun 2017), the University had raised UGX.200million from volunteers and well-wishers across the country towards the Students’ Centre Project. The Students’ Centre will be constructed on the Makerere University Main Campus in the open space between the Senate Building and the Lincoln Flats.Chairperson Makerere University Council Eng. Wana Etyem (Left), Chief Runner Rt Hon Speaker Rebecca Kadaga(3rd Left), Chancellor Prof Ezra Suruma(2nd Right) pose for a photo with the winners of the day.

The Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) is an entity of Makerere University established in 2014. The Board is tasked with mobilising, receiving and growing the financial resources for the benefit of the University’s current and future generations; enhancing the learning environment in the University; and offering scholarships, research support and innovations.

Chaired by Dr. Martin Jerome Aliker, the Board comprises the following personalities: Ambassador Edith Grace Ssempala, Mr. Barnabas Tumusingize, Mr. Grace Isabirye, Mr. Martin Owiny, Hon. Gerald Karuhanga and Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu.

Rt. Hon Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, who pledged UGX.40million towards the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) and Students’ Centre Project on behalf of the Parliament of Uganda said the Run was a great milestone for the University and her alumni.

 “I learnt that the Run will always be an annual event, so I would like to call upon all Ugandans to be part and contribute towards the University Endowment Fund. When we come together, we can improve the Fund for the good of Makerere University. This will continue to keep Makerere University in the lead not only academically, but through visibility and outreach,” Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga said.

She advocated for transparency and accountability for the funds mobilized, and urged the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) and the Makerere University Planning and Development Department (PDD) to involve university alumni such as former Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki, and former President of Tanzania, Benjamin Mkapa.Rt Hon Rebecca Kadaga adorns Mr. Dick Muhiirwe a medal of the overall winner.

Eng. Dr. Charles Wana-Etyem, the Chairperson of Makerere University Council, also an alumnus of Makerere University commended runners/participants, champions, sponsors, partners for their contribution towards the success of the inaugural Makerere University Endowment Run (MakRun 2017).

“You are all contributors towards this noble cause in various ways. I believe you will come forward to raise money to help in achieving the good causes of the University like the construction of the Students’ Centre. I thank you all for your contribution,” Dr. Wana-Etyem said.

The Chief Runner presented MakRun 2017 medals and certificates to the winners amidst applause from thousands of participants in the Freedom Square. For the 10km race, the winning team comprised Mr. Dick Muhiirwe (Overall), Mr. Mwesigwa David (1st Runner Up) and Mr. Oketch Lazarous (2nd Runner Up). For the 5km race, the winning team comprised Mr. Muhanguzi Oscar (Overall), Mr. Ndibanoha John (1st Runner up) and Mr. Amanya Gilbert (2nd Runner Up).

On behalf of the University Management, the Vice Chancellor applauded the MakRun 2017 Organising Committee chaired by Dr. Florence Nakayiwa-the Director, Planning and Development Department for organising a successful run.

Article by: Ritah Namisango, Mak Public Relations Office
Photos by: Joseph Buwule, LandMark Media Consultancy Limited

Elias Tuhereze

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Call for Applications: Admission to Postgraduate Programmes 2026/2027

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SoL Graduands celebrate after being conferred upon their awards. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites applications for admission to Graduate Programmes (Postgraduate Diplomas, Masters and Doctoral Degree Programmes) for the 2026/2027 Academic Year. Applicants should have obtained at least a first or second class degree (or its equivalent) from a Chartered University at the time of completion. Applicants should also possess a Uganda Certificate of Education (or its equivalent) and a Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (or its equivalent).

Sponsorship:

All Graduate Programmes are PRIVATELY-SPONSORED. Therefore, applicants seeking sponsorship should have their applications endorsed by their respective sponsors where applicable. Applicants should note that the various fees payable to the University indicated for the various programmes EXCLUDE functional fees, accommodation, books, research and other expenses.

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Simon Mungudit: Mak’s Best Performing Male Science Student & Rising Star in Petroleum Geoscience

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Simon Mungudit emerged the best performing male science student this year. He is set to graduate from Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 24th February 2026 in the Freedom Square.

At just 24 years old, Simon Mungudit from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) has etched his name in the academic history of Makerere University, having emerged as the overall best male student in the Sciences, an achievement earned through perseverance, discipline, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence.

Mungudit is set to graduate during 76th graduation ceremony scheduled for 24th to 27th February 2026, having attained a CGPA of 4.76 in the Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production. His academic interests-Reservoir Engineering, Petrophysics, and Drilling-reflect a deep understanding of the subsurface sciences that power modern energy systems.

Early Life and Journey to Academic Excellence

Born to Mr. Owor Thomas, a Game Ranger with the Uganda Wildlife Authority at Murchison Falls National Park, and Ms. Lilly Obewun Grace of Akuru Bridge Village, Nyaravur Sub-County in Nebbi District, Mungudit’s journey to academic excellence began far from the lecture halls of Makerere. At Karuma Primary School, Mungudit scored 12 aggregates in the Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE), setting the pace for his future success. He proceeded to St. Daniel Comboni College, Nebbi, where he attained 14 aggregates in 8 subjects at O’ Level. He then joined Namilyango College, one of the best secondary schools in Uganda, where he studied Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) and scored 19 points, results that secured him government sponsorship to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production at Makerere University.

Gratitude to his mentors and sponsors

Behind these milestones lies a story of humility, gratitude and opportunity. Mungudit credits his parents for supporting his primary and O’ Level education and expresses gratitude to TotalEnergies, which provided a full bursary for his A’ Level studies, covering tuition, upkeep, and medical care. He also acknowledges the Government of Uganda for sponsoring his university education, a factor he says motivated him to excel.

At Makerere, Mungudit thrived in an environment that blended rigorous academics with mentorship. He pays tribute to his lecturers, particularly Dr. Arthur Batte, Head, Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, for their unwavering commitment to nurturing students and pushing them to excel.

“I always aimed to excel,” Mungudit says. “Together with a few colleagues, we formed a group and held discussions on a daily. This, coupled with a conducive study environment, prayer, and discipline, enabled us to attain excellent grades.”

Dr Arthur Batte describes Mungidit as a humble yet very intelligent student.

Achievements and Professional Experience

Beyond academics, Mungudit consistently demonstrated expertise in petroleum engineering. In 2024, he led a team that won the Reservoir Modelling Challenge, organized by the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) Makerere University Chapter, earning prize money and a sponsored field trip to the Tilenga Project courtesy of COSL. He was First Runner-Up in the Petro Bowl competitions of 2023 and 2025, a highly competitive petroleum knowledge quiz organized by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Uganda Section. He served as a Student Officer for the SPE Makerere University Chapter in 2023, and in 2024, he chaired the Organizing Committee of the SPE Annual Students’ Technical Conference and Exhibition, helping bridge the gap between academia and industry.

His learning extended beyond the classroom. During his internship, he worked with TotalEnergies, where he applied petrophysics skills to analyze gas-while-drilling data for formation evaluation, hands-on exposure that sharpened his professional competence. At Makerere University, he mastered PetroMod 2018, a critical software tool in oil and gas exploration. After completing his studies in June 2025, Mungudit trained with the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), participating in the 2D seismic acquisition in the Kasurubani Block in Buliisa and Hoima districts.

Mungudit currently works as the Special Projects Coordinator for the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Uganda Section Student Liaison Committee.

Future Plans

Mungudit hopes to work in the oil and gas industry in the upstream sector as a geoscientist. He also plans to pursue further studies in petroleum engineering.

From a village in Nebbi to the forefront of petroleum geoscience, Mungudit’s story is one of an opportunity seized and potential realized. It is a testament to what is possible when talent meets support, and when determination is guided by faith, mentorship, and service. As Uganda’s oil and gas sector continues to evolve, Mungudit stands as a symbol of the skilled, principled professionals poised to shape its future.

The CoNAS fraternity congratulates Mungudit on this noble achievement.

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Hasifa Kabejja

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Press Statement: Makerere 76th Graduation Ceremony

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) presents one of the printed batches of transcripts the Registrar College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS)-Ms. Ruth Iteu Eyoku (2nd Right) as Right to Left: DVCAA-Prof. Sarah Ssali, AR-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Ms. Prossy Nakayiki witness on 28th January 2026. Vice Chancellor's Press Briefing on the 76th Graduation due to be held 24th-27th February 2026 at Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University’s 76th graduation ceremony will be held from February 24th – 27th, 2026, at the Makerere University Freedom Square, starting at 8.30am. During the 76th graduation ceremony, we shall confer degrees and award certificates to 185 PhDs, 2034 Masters, 6,043 bachelors, 137 postgraduate diplomas and 33 diplomas.

I am proud to announce that in comparison to the 75th graduation, we have registered a 30% growth in graduate student output. This is a result of our strategic decision to prioritize graduate education per our research-led agenda.

I also wish to announce that the transcripts have been finalized and are ready for pick up. Today, I am handing over the ready transcripts to the College principals and can be picked up from respective Colleges even before the graduation ceremony.

Important to Note:

In preparation for the graduation ceremony, the University wishes to note the following:

  1. Pre-graduation clearances
    Graduands are reminded to clear all necessary payments such as tuition and all graduation
    fees. It is also important to check with your College to ensure your name is on the graduation
    list and all mandatory clearances with university officials have been finalized. Note and
    internalize the graduation schedule (attached) to know which day you are graduating.
  2. Securing the graduation gowns
    Graduation gowns will be issued starting from 2nd February 2026 from the University Hall (Dinning Hall), Monday to Friday, from 9am to 4pm. To collect your gown, check and ensure your name appears on the Senate Graduation list, present your student number or National ID, and proof of payment for the gown.
  3. Security requirements
    • Attendance: For each day of graduation, entrance to the graduation ground will be by invitation only. Graduands will be issued with invitation cards which permits two guests per graduand. Do not come with more than two people or they will not be allowed access to the graduation venue. Graduands are encouraged to arrive to settle at the Freedom Square by 7am on graduation day to for a seamless flow of planned activities including the necessary security checks.
    • Prohibited items: Prohibited items include firearms, sharp instruments like mirrors and knives, alcohol, cell or batteries and chemicals, canned food and drinks, laptops, flashes and hard disks, radios including pocket radios, bottled drinks, cameras, large bags or any other heavy items.
    • Media: All media and journalists who wish to cover the ceremony must be pre-accredited by the Makerere University Public Relations office or they will not be allowed to access the ceremony venue. The access point for accredited media personnel will be the Senate Building.
    • Parking: There will be two designated parking areas; Rugby Grounds for those coming through the Eastern and Main Gate; and the second one is the Makerere University Main Grounds at Makerere College School. For VVIPs, VIPs and procession parking will be at CTF1, Directorate of Legal parking, St Francis and St Augustine parking, JICA and Senate Building.
    • Access Control: To ease traffic flow and management, the University has planned three access points to the graduation venue: the School of Social Sciences, Senate Building and the University Swimming Pool.
  4. For help and inquiries
    • Starting February 2, 2026, the Academic Registrar ’s Office and Graduation Committee will set up an information tent outside the Senate Building to provide guidance and handle all inquiries pertaining to graduation.


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