Law
School of Law Orients Fresh Men & Women
The School of Law organized a freshers’ orientation meeting on Wednesday 2nd February, 2022 to create a sense of belonging among the new students at the School.
Established in 1968, initially as a Department of the Faculty of Social Sciences, the School was later in 1971 given independence as a Faculty and when Makerere University adopted the collegiate system, it became a semi-autonomous college. According to the Principal Prof. Christopher Mbazira, until recently, the School occupied special status as the only School of Law at a public university, “we now have Gulu as the second and the other schools are private” he said.
The School of Law was the only lawyer-training facility in Uganda since its founding in 1968 until 2000 when other universities established faculties of law. The school has five teaching departments, in addition to the units that engage in research like the Human Rights and Peace Centre (HURIPEC), doing research and advocacy, in the area of human rights; and the Public Interest Law Clinic (PILAC). The Refugee Law Project addresses issues of refugees and immigration; Law, Gender and Sexuality research project addresses sexuality issues; the Disability Law and Rights Centre (DLRC) promotes and protects disability rights; as well as many other smaller research projects.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Ronald Naluwairo, the Deputy Principal, School of Law, welcomed the fresh men and women to the school. “We are here to inspire you and give you guidance on the basics and key things to excel in your academic career”, he said.
Dr. Naluwairo introduced to students the rigorous nature of the the Bachelors of Law Programme, and encouraged them to have competence as a minimum requirement for the programme. The Deputy Principal also promised students a session where the School Registrar will introduce the rules and regulations governing the programme in detail. He called upon the fresh men and women to always consult the registrars in instances where the rules seemed unclear.
In his remarks, Prof. Mbazira congratulated the students upon passing the pre-entry exams and joining the group of special people with special alumni. “So many people are interested in doing this course, and so when one passes the pre-entry exam, it gives us the confidence that you will pass through the course” he said.
Prof. Mbazira introduced to students a magazine produced during the School of Law at 50 Years of existence celebrations in 2018, with information on the history of the school, some of the people that have gone through the school and the various things done.
“I want to state that you have started a process of transformation from students to lawyers and this is will enable you join the noble legal profession. Traditionally, we have three professions, that’s law, medicine and religion. By joining the noble legal profession, you are bound by professional ethics and the code of conduct that governs members of that profession” said Prof. Mbazira.
He also urged students to be honest, smart, hardworking as well as give back to the community as an obligation that comes with being a member of the noble profession. “The nature of the programme is rigorous, it requires commitment, focus and it is the application of approaches used to pass S.6 exams.”
Prof. Mbazira emphasised the need for students to read extensively as a requirement by the profession, “You can’t do a case unless you read, you can’t provide legal advise unless you read. Lawyers do a lot of constant reading, but one important thing is that once lawyers graduate, you can’t get another solid four years of reading so the four years is a golden chance for you to read.
“You may not realize that during the four years of reading the knowledge you acquire is going to help you at a certain stage. It may not help you to pass exams but helps to shape you as a lawyer, it helps to give you knowledge that you will later grow on; to represent clients, provide legal advice, to be a legislator and so forth” he added.
The Principal urged the new students to take advantage of the fact that, Makerere has the best faculty, prominent legal academics with experience both within and outside Uganda and the best law library in the country.
“The law profession is diverse, I know what most of you have is that a lawyer is some one who goes to court or seats as a judge, but you are going to discover that the legal profession is so rich that graduates of this school have done so many things including: legal practitioners, judges and magistrates, judicature, state attorneys in various capacities, lawyers of the state, prosecuting cases, giving legal advise and guiding approaches in the legislative processes, providing legal service to corporate entities, private companies, public companies, some working as company secretaries, public interest litigation among others. The legal profession is a profession that enables you to work anywhere, lawyers can work in a hospital because hospitals give legal advise, they have corporate matters that require lawyers to advice on” elaborated the Principal.
Prof. Mbazira concluded by warning students against becoming victims of self destructive behaviour. “Not everybody who attends this orientation attends the graduation ceremony due to both natural and man-made causes. Students tend to block their opportunities. I, the Deputy Principal and Heads of Department have an open door policy, and so does the Students leadership, don’t hesitate to contact us”.
Students were also availed the various IT student support portals including: answers.mak.ac.ug, student.mak.ac.ug, admissions.mak.ac.ug and support.mak.ac.ug among others for IT-related assistance.
A team of staff from the Counseling and Guidance Centre led by the Manager Mr. Henry Nsubuga oriented the students on the need for both psychological and mental health while in school. “We are here today but we don’t know what might befall us, tragedy can befall us at any time that’s why the university provides counseling and guidance services. Students should avoid postponing seeking help for whatever issues they may have.”
The Makerere Law Society (MLS) President, Mr. Mpindi Percy welcomed the new students. He noted that the society was formed in 1971 to represent students interests, and unveiled the first ever students’ orientation handbook by the Law Society. The Handbook documents various experiences of current students and alumni of the school. He concluded by encouraging students to always reach out to MLS for assistance.
In her remarks on Sexual harassment, Prof Sylvia Tamale defined the vice as unwelcomed sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or unwanted physical, verbal or nonverbal conduct. “Sexual harassment isn’t rape like most people think, no!”
She added that Makerere University has zero-tolerance for sexual harassment. “Sexual harassment is prohibited for both on and off-campus settings for Students, desk staff, administrative staff, support staff, contractors, visitors and researchers” she explained.
According to Prof. Tamale, beyond rules and policies, African people are guided by one important concept, ‘obuntu – buntubulamu’. She added that African people share a value which speaks to the maxim ‘I am because we are’ which means that you should treat the other the way you would like to be treated (with passion). “African people knew the value before the whites brought the bible.”
In his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Uganda Law Society (ULS) Mr. Moses Okwalinga shared that the legal profession is a lifetime commitment. “You remain an advocate/lawyer for life. What you have started is not just a career but a lifetime experience which you will pursue even after retirement.”
He urged students to be mindful of the friends they choose since they have an impact on their lives.He asked them to define their values and avoid bad company. “When you hang out with a group, their perception is your perception. This course gives you so much confidence but what you do with what you learn is very important. Remember that u came here alone. How you use what you learn is very key; the bad name will follow you all through” he said.
Prof. Ronald Mayambala, from the Department of Environmental Law urged students to honor the timetable, attend class, and avoid things that will put them in trouble either by bad company or wrong association. “Excessive politics may not be compatible with your studies, becoming religious fanatics is not good. Always balance.”
Law
75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University: SoL Best Performing Students, Alado attains 1st Class
At the 75th Graduation Makerere University School of Law (SoL) presented a total of 285 graduands including (3) Doctor of Laws (LLD), (48) Master of Laws (LLM) and (234) Bachelor of Laws (LLB).
The Bachelor of Laws awardees were 98 female and 136 male. Mr. Alado Lawrence emerged the best student among the LLB class attaining a 1st Class degree with a CGPA of 4.56; Ms. Nakalema Stella Maris who attained a Second Upper Class was the best performing female student with a CGPA of 4.26.
Best LLB Graduand: Alado Lawrence
Alado Lawrence, a humble soft-spoken gentleman who hails from Lira District in the northern region of Uganda emerged the best student attaining a 1st Class for the LLB with a CGPA of 4.56 out of 5.00. First class degrees are very rare at SoL; Lawrence is the 15th graduand to have attained this class of degree since 1971 when Makerere University produced the first LLBs.
Lawrence is number four in a family of 6 children born to Mr. Okio Patrick (businessman) and Mrs. Angom Juspine Okio (a farmer).
In his words, he hopes to specialize in International Law; his inspiration is the environment he witnessed in his community following the Kony insurgence and war which lasted over a decade. The situation was dire with families separated, displaced communities, abduction of children, deaths and widespread poverty in the region.
When asked if he thought he would perform highly when he joined SoL, he said, ‘initially no, because everyone said the LLB was hard. However, he worked hard and got the results’. I am grateful to the support from my father and mother, lecturers and collegiality of fellow classmates, he added.
His message to other students, “Each of us, by taking actions in our lives, can achieve impossible results. Our dreams are not beyond reach and by diligence and determination, we can not only accomplish them but even exceed them. Therefore, I encourage every dreamer to take relentless action and never give up. Everything is possible to whoever believes it so”.
Best Female Graduand: Nakalema Stella Maris
Nakalema Stella Maris is a cheerful lady with a twinkle in her eye, she emerged the best performing female student for the LLB attaining a Second Class Upper with a CGPA of 4.26 out of 5.00.
Stella Maris hails from Buvuma District, the 3rd child among 4 children born to Mr. Nsubuga William (an Economist) and Ms. Nagujja Judith (a teacher).
Her message to other students, “Success in law school is not just about talent but about consistency, discipline, and resilience. My journey has taught me the importance of hard work, collaboration, and learning from others. To my fellow students, remember that every challenge is an opportunity to grow, and every setback is a lesson in disguise. Don’t fear the challenges; embrace them. Don’t aim for perfection; aim for progress. Stay curious, remain humble, and never lose sight of the values that make you passionate about the law. Together, we can inspire change and build a better society. The best is yet to come!”
Congratulations to all the SoL high performers, a further 13 LLB graduands also attained Second Class Upper.
The 75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University commenced on Monday 13th January 2025. The School of Law (SoL), College of Computing and Information Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, and College of Education and External Studies presented graduands for conferment of degrees.
SoL presented a total of 285 graduands including (3) Doctor of Laws (LLD), (48) Master of Laws (LLM) and (234) Bachelor of Laws (LLB).
The Doctor of Laws were awarded to Woliya Gwokyalya (Ms.), James Nkuubi (Mr.) and Oscar Kamusiime Mwebesa (Mr.). Master of Laws were awarded to 21 female and 27 male while the Bachelor of Laws awardees were 98 female and 136 male. Mr. Alado Lawrence emerged the best student among the LLB class attaining a 1st Class degree with a CGPA of 4.56; Ms. Nakalema Stella Maris was the best performing female student with a CGPA of 4.26. 14 LLB graduands attained Second Class Upper.
Speaking to the congregation, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe – Vice Chancellor, Makerere University welcomed everyone to Makerere University’s 75th Graduation. He congratulated the 13,658 graduates, including 143 PhD recipients, 53% female graduates and 47% male graduands who will be awarded degrees through the graduation week. He commended the efforts of staff, parents, and sponsors in supporting the students’ journeys. Professor Nawangwe praised the milestones of Makerere’s Colleges and Schools, including the new building for the School of Law officially opened on 18th December, 2024 by Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni – First Lady and Minister for Education & Sports. The modern facilities in the building will enhance the working and learning environment for staff and students respectively.
Prof. Nawangwe reiterated Makerere’s transformation to a research-led institution supported by the government funded Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF). “We are addressing national priorities, such as improving the Parish Development Model and advancing e-governance,” he stated. The Vice Chancellor also congratulated Dr. Crispus Kiyonga on his appointment as Chancellor and urged graduates to leverage their education to create solutions for societal challenges.
Professor Nawangwe advised the graduands thus, ‘We have equipped you with the knowledge and skills that will make you employable or to create your own businesses and employ others. Do not despair if you cannot find employment, instead reflect on the immense opportunities around you and raise them as an entrepreneur.’
Professor Puleng LenkaBula, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of South Africa (UNISA) delivered the commencement speech where she called on the graduands to remain resilient and emancipate Africa’s people. Her address titled “The Power of Resilience – African Woman, Find Your Generational Mission and Redefine Your Worth”, Professor LenkaBula highlighted the critical role of African women in shaping the continent’s destiny.
Professor LenkaBula expressed gratitude for being invited to such a significant occasion and extended greetings from South Africa, including from UNISA’s Chancellor, former South African President Dr. Thabo Mbeki. She praised Makerere University for its legacy of academic excellence and contributions to the African continent, emphasizing its role in anti-colonial struggles, post-colonial development, and its steadfast commitment to African unity. She called for a renewed focus on gender equity in academia and leadership, noting the disproportionate burdens faced by women in society. Citing the achievements of Makerere University in gender mainstreaming, she expressed optimism about the role of young leaders in dismantling patriarchal systems and fostering inclusive development.
Professor LenkaBula concluded her address to graduands with a call to action: “Your graduation is not merely a personal achievement but a contribution to Africa’s collective progress. History has thrust upon you the task of creating a future defined by resilience, innovation, and equality.”
In his remarks, Dr. Crispus Kiyonga – Chancellor, Makerere University congratulated graduands upon making it to the 75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University. Dr. Suruma expressed his appreciation of His Excellency the President and First Lady/Minister of Education and Sports for giving him the opportunity to serve Uganda and for the continuous support extended to Makerere University, requesting the congregation to join him and give them a warm applause. Dr. Kiyonga reiterated President Museveni’s directive to Makerere University to integrate the teaching of political economy across all courses to enhance students’ understanding of the country’s socioeconomic conditions. The directive, welcomed by the university’s top management, will be incorporated into the curriculum to align education with the needs of the people and the nation.
He expressed appreciation that the government has pledged to bolster Makerere’s research funding and he encouraged the University to strengthen partnerships with the private sector to commercialize innovations developed at the institution.
The new Chancellor pledged support to the University management in saving its land and urged that an agro-industrial park be established. “This park would serve three purposes: teaching, generating income, and acting as a demonstration site for communities across the country,” Dr. Kiyonga noted. He also emphasized the urgency of addressing Uganda’s food insecurity, highlighting that 40% of children in the Rwenzori region are stunted, with malnutrition affecting most regions of the country.
Dr. Kiyonga also pointed out Africa’s underperformance despite its vast resources, describing it as a contradiction. “It is our responsibility to change the conditions of our people and ensure Africa rises to its potential,” he urged.
The ceremony was graced by Hon. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, Minister of State for Primary Education, who represented the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni. Other dignitaries included members of Parliament, the judiciary, the diplomatic corps, and academics.
The Minister lauded Makerere University for its dedication to academic excellence and innovation. “Today reflects the resilience, hard work, and commitment of our graduates, supported by the university staff, management, and parents,” she said. The Minister commended the Vice Chancellor and management for fostering research and innovation while urging them to maintain robust quality control systems to uphold the institution’s integrity.
She also reflected on Makerere’s recent milestones, including the commissioning of a new School of Law building and the launch of the School of Graduate Studies and Research. “Your achievements stem from hard work, transparency, and accountability. They set Makerere apart as a leader in higher education,” she noted. Addressing the graduates, Hon. Kaducu encouraged them to apply their skills to solve societal challenges. “Makerere has equipped you with critical thinking and creativity. Use this to seize opportunities, make a difference, and shine wherever you go,” she concluded.
During the 75th graduation ceremony held from the 13th -17th January, 2025, a total of 13,658 graduands will be awarded degrees and diplomas in various disciplines. Of these, 143 will receive PhDs, 1,813 Masters Degrees, 243 postgraduate Diplomas, and 11,454 Bachelor’s Degrees. 53% of the graduands are female and 47% are male. 44% of the PhD graduands are female. A total of 491 graduands will receive first class degrees.
The new Makerere University School of Law Building was officially opened on 18th December, 2024 by the First Lady and Minister for Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni. She laid the foundation stone for this building on 17th May 2022.
The building, fully funded by the Government of Uganda to a tune UGX7.3bn, is a three-storied structure with several state-of-the-art facilities including lecture theatres, tutorial and seminar rooms, a library, state-of-the-art Moot Court room, a cafeteria, lactation room and staff offices. This modern infrastructure is going to greatly enhance and provide a conducive teaching and learning environment for both staff and students. The construction works were undertaken by M/S CK Associates as Contractors and Symbion as the Consultants.
On arrival, the Minister was welcomed by the Chairperson Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara accompanied by the University management team including the Vice Chancellor, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe; the Deputy Vice Chancellor/F&A, Professor Henry Alinaitwe; the University Secretary, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda; the Academic Registrar, Professor Mukadasi Buyinza; Ag. Principal, School of Law, Assoc. Professor Ronald Naluwairo among others.
In her remarks, Mrs. Lorna Magara extended a warm welcome to Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, First Lady and Minister for Education and Sports. Mrs. Magara said, ‘your presence here today Maama, is a testament of your unwavering and steadfast support for Makerere University and highlights the tangible impact of your leadership in advancing Uganda’s education sector, particularly at Makerere University’. She noted that the building will provide critical support for practical legal education.
Professor Barnabas Nawangwe also welcomed the Minister to Makerere University noting that, ‘this is a joyful day when we are witnessing a bumper harvest in infrastructure development at this great institution’.
Thanking the Minister for her unwavering support to Makerere University, the Vice Chancellor said, ‘from the time you took over the Office of Minister of Education and Sports, the Higher Education Sector and Makerere University in particular has transformed tremendously. Most notable is the infrastructure revolution at Makerere. On several occasions, you have come to Makerere to lay the foundations for new buildings and to open completed buildings, including our iconic Main Administration Building.
He noted that before the new School of Law building, it was appalling that a place that had trained the entire judiciary of Uganda was in such a dilapidated state.
Prof. Nawangwe pledged the total commitment of the University to work with the Government of Uganda in the struggle to emancipate the people from poverty through research and production of highly skilled and patriotic graduates, innovators and entrepreneurs.
In her remarks, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni expressed her joy in coming to Makerere University, more especially on a day to mark another effort to provide quality education through provision of infrastructure at Uganda’s oldest University.
She said, ‘It is one thing to break ground for new infrastructure and another thing to complete. I vividly remember the ground breaking ceremony at the School of Law. I am therefore very pleased to be here today to commission the same’.
Quoting the bible, Hon. Kataaha Museveni reminded the congregation about the great rebuilder, Nehemiah, who had mobilised his countrymen to rebuild Jerusalem. She noted that with rebuilding, there is restoration of dignity that comes to an institution both physically and spiritually.
The minister saluted the Council and Management for the dedication to the rebuilding of the University expressing confidence that as they rebuild physically, the character of our young people shouldn’t be forgotten.
After commissioning the School of Law Building, Hon. Kataaha Museveni also opened the newly renovated student residence, Lumumba Hall and laid a foundation stone for the School of Graduate Studies Building, gifted to Makerere by Tororo Cement.
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