Natural Sciences
72nd Graduation Ceremony: CoNAS presents 268 graduands with a record 17 PhDs
The 72nd graduation ceremony of Makerere University has kicked off today, 23rd May 2022 with the Colleges of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and Health Sciences as well as the School of Law presenting students for the award of degrees and diplomas in various disciplines.
The graduation ceremony presided over by the Chancellor, Prof. Ezra Suruma was graced by the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni and the First Lady, also Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni.
During 72nd graduation ceremony that ends on Friday, 27th May 2022, a total of 12,474 graduands will receive degrees and diplomas of Makerere University. Of these, 100 will graduate with PhDs, 1,236 with Masters degrees, 10,998 with Bachelor’s degrees and 140 with undergraduate and postgraduate diplomas. 52 % of the graduands are female and 48 % are male. Forty of the 100 PhD graduands and 492 of the 1,236 Masters graduands are female, representing 40% in each category.
The College of Natural Sciences has presented a total of 268 students including 17 PhDs, 22 Masters (4 female,18 male) and 229 undergraduates (72 female, 157 male). Of these, a total of 5 students (1 female, 4 male) graduated with First Class degrees. Eight students attained PhD in Mathematics, the highest number of PhD graduates from a single department in the 100-year history of Makerere University. The students were sponsored by the SIDA Bilateral Programme, 2015-2022, project 316 ‘Capacity Building in Mathematics and its Applications. Since 2015, the Project led by Prof. John Mango has sponsored 21 PhD students.
Presenting the graduands, the Principal of CoNAS, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta commended Prof. Mango for his invaluable contribution towards research and training in the Department of Mathematics.
The 17 PhD graduates include; Adaku Christopher, Anywar Godwin, Buttibwa Mary, Eneku John Paul, Inuwa Badamasi, Kito Luliro Silas, Kyomuhangi Annet, Mayanja Edison, Mukisa Ambrose, Ochen William, Opio Peter, Nabawanda Olivia, Nanfuka Mary, Nalule Rebecca, Okello Joseph Omwonylee, and Wamono Felix.
Remarks by the President
Speaking at the ceremony, the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni who attended virtually re-echoed the importance of science in development. “The trigger of social change is science. I appeal to Ugandans and social scientists to understand this. When Africa was colonized, it was not that we lacked Kings, Magicians, Priests, we lacked science. Science was not emphasized. What was emphasized was these other actors. We want to emphasize science because it is the basis of socioeconomic transformation,” he explained, recommitting to facilitate government scientists better. “We have insisted on giving good salaries to Government scientists including science teachers in public Universities and secondary schools. This is not because we have forgotten the social scientists and arts people. This is because we cannot handle all at a go,” he noted. Additionally, the President emphasized the need for collaborative research. Commenting on security on Campus, he pledged to facilitate the completion of the University Perimeter wall.
Remarks by the Minister of Education and Sports
Delivering her remarks, the First Lady, also Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni who also attended virtually congratulated the graduands and their parents for the success registered. She thanked the University Management for their commitment in ensuring students attain quality education. “Together with our partners in development, we are still struggling to improve the working conditions, revamp the university infrastructure and to have new curriculum. We are grateful to our partners who have stood with us but most of all the government. We are specifically grateful to the NRM government because it shepherds the Ugandan child from childhood by providing basic health and education services. Government hope is that the Parish Model will empower the family to support the other education requirements of children. As we celebrate 100 years, we thank God for where He has brought us from. From 14 students, the University now has over 3,8000 students. This is no mean achievement. We must stand together. Let nothing divide us in our pursuit to transform the University and country. We should learn to embrace dialogue in conflict resolution,” she noted. The First Lady appreciated the Government for the enormous investment in research at the University. “Through government processes, we received funding for the construction of a 300-bed teaching hospital. This will greatly improve the teaching infrastructure at the University.”
The Chairperson, Makerere University Council
Addressing graduands, the Chairperson, Makerere University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara appreciated the Vice Chancellor for the great service rendered to the University for the years he has held the Office. She presented an award to Prof. William Bazeyo, for his exemplary service as Deputy Vice Chancellor, Finance and Administration. During his tenure, Prof. Bazeyo played a tremendous role in soliciting for funding for the University, leading to a reduction of the University debt from UGX120 billion in 2017 to less than UGX 10 billion currently.
Remarks by the Chancellor
The Chancellor, Prof. Ezra Suruma appreciated the President and the First Lady, for their exceptional leadership and persistent determination in managing the Covid19 pandemic. “Despite the enormous economic, social and political pressures that you faced, you refused to relent in the face of the havoc of covid19 upon the world in general and Uganda in particular. I believe that your firm stand on vaccination and on preventive lockdown helped to save thousands of lives of Ugandans who would probably have died.” The Chancellor also appreciated the Government of Uganda for the commitment towards advancing research and higher education in the Country.
In his address, the Chancellor congratulated the graduands and paid tribute to the parents and guardians for the sacrifices made to ensure their children attain quality education. “I plead with the graduands to never forget to cherish and to honour your parents, guardians and sponsors who have sacrificed so much to help you reach this graduation day. As they become older, they will increasingly need your love and financial support. Whenever I meet someone I assisted and he or she tells me how they cherished my support I feel greatly uplifted. But whenever I remember someone I assisted but who has never bothered to send even a message of greetings, I feel discouraged. Please endeavor to cultivate an attitude of gratitude,” he advised.
The Chancellor appreciated Makerere University Management and faculty for the commitment and time invested in delivering quality education to the students.
The Vice Chancellor’s address
The Vice Chancellor congratulated the students and professors on the achievement. He thanked the parents, guardians, Government, and other sponsors, for supporting the students. “A total of 254 of this week’s graduands have been supported under the Government of Uganda Students’ Loans Scheme under the Higher Education Students’ Financing Board (HESFB). Since 2014, the Students’ Loan Scheme has supported 1,816 Students to study different Science Programmes at Makerere University, making it the single biggest supporter of private students at the Institution. These students would otherwise never have achieved their higher education dreams if it was not for the Students’ Loan Scheme. I wish to congratulate you the beneficiaries and appeal to you to use the skills and knowledge you have acquired to serve your country but also remember to pay back such that more students can be supported.”
Similarly, the Vice Chancellor appreciated all development partners who have supported many students to attain quality education at Makerere, including the Mastercard Foundation, Sida, Norad, The Madhvani Foundation, the Inter-University Council of East Africa, as well as Government Ministries and Agencies.
The Vice Chancellor thanked the University Council for expanding the Female Scholarship Scheme to support 40 girls from disadvantaged backgrounds, with special attention to Uganda’s ethnic minorities, including the Ik, the Dodoth, the Batwa, and the Jie. “It is also my pleasure to report that the University Council policy on affirmative action for girls in STEM is already bearing fruit. Because of that policy, the enrolment of girls in STEM has increased from 35% to 42% over the last two academic years.”
Regarding research and innovation at Makerere, the Vice Chancellor appreciated the Government for the allocation of UGX 30 billion annually for the last three years towards the Research and Innovation Fund, commonly referred to as RIF. “This fund has transformed Makerere tremendously. Out of 1,200 applications received, more than 700 research grants have so far been allocated and more than 500 innovations have been recorded, many of them with potential for commercialization, and a number of policy briefs and manuals have been developed. The Government of Uganda is now the single largest funder of research at Makerere University and we are obliged to respond by increasing our efforts to find solutions to our Country’s development challenges. Our potential for innovation came out during the COVID-19 pandemic when more than 200 innovations to fight that disease were realized. I congratulate the Makerere researchers for their patriotism and zeal.”
He also appreciated the Government for the considerable investments in improving Makerere University infrastructure. “Last week the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports came to Makerere to commission some buildings and lay foundation stones for others, including the reconstruction of our iconic Main Administration Building, for which Government has already availed all the UGX 21 billion required. The new building for the School of Dentistry has enabled us to equip the biggest dental hospital in East Africa. The Central Teaching Facilities have greatly alleviated the shortage of teaching and office space, and the new building for the School of Law will enhance research and graduate training in the discipline of Law. All these projects will cost the Government more than UGX 60 billion and we thank you very much indeed.”
The Vice Chancellor equally thanked the President for the pledge to support the construction of a perimeter wall around the University campus. He also appreciated the President for his directive for the allocation of funds to renovate student halls of residence and facilities of the College of Health Sciences. “These facilities are central to student welfare and the quality of our teaching and training. With these investments, I want to assure Your Excellency that we shall give our best to build the human capital of this country and enhance research and innovation to drive the national development agenda. The grant of USD 300 million negotiated by the First Lady and Minister of Education for the construction of a teaching hospital at Makerere University will greatly revolutionise teaching and research at Makerere. Makerere will never be the same again,” he noted. He also extended gratitude to the government for the pledge of UGX 800 million to support activities to mark 100 years of Makerere University. This year, Makerere is celebrating 100 years of excellent service to humanity. The climax will be on 8th October 2022.
Full speech by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?
Natural Sciences
Makerere Department of Mathematics, Industry Partners Explore Strategies to Strengthen Collaboration in Addressing Societal Challenges
The Department of Mathematics at Makerere University recently hosted a three-day workshop aimed at enhancing the contribution of mathematics to sustainable development, with a particular focus on strengthening academia-industry collaboration and advancing regional integration.
Held at the Senate Building, the workshop brought together academics, researchers, and industry practitioners from Uganda and across the East African region to discuss how mathematics can be more effectively applied to address pressing societal challenges.
The workshop formed part of the activities of the Africa-Europe Cluster of Research Excellence in Mathematics (CoRE-MATH) initiative, implemented in collaboration with the NORHED II project, Mathematics for Sustainable Development (Math4SDG). The programme seeks to establish sustainable structures and platforms for Academia-Industry-Society collaboration in applications-oriented mathematics and data science through Mathematics in Industry Contact Workshops (MICW) and Mathematics in Industry Study Groups (MISG).
Addressing the Academia–Industry Gap
Despite significant growth in mathematical research across East Africa in recent years, its impact on industry and broader societal development remains limited. This gap is largely driven by weak knowledge transfer mechanisms and a lack of structured collaboration between academia and industry.
The workshop was designed as a “contact forum” to foster direct engagement between researchers and industry representatives, with the aim of identifying practical challenges that can be addressed through mathematical modelling, data science, and computational techniques.
Specific Objectives
- Foster academia-industry collaboration
- Promote applied and industrial mathematics in society
- Support research and innovation
- Strengthen regional and interdisciplinary networks
Coordination and Leadership
The CoRE-MATH (Africa–Europe Cluster of Research Excellence in Mathematics) is co-led by Prof. John Mango Magero (Makerere University) and Prof. Bengt Ove Turesson (International Science Programme / Uppsala University, Sweden). They Coordinate the cluster’s activities across African and European partner universities.
The workshop was coordinated by Prof. John Mango Magero and Dr. Alex Behakanira, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Mathematics and member of the academic network contributing to capacity building and collaborative research activities in the CoRE-MATH initiative.
Expert Insights on the Role of Mathematics in Real-World Challenges
A key highlight of the workshop was a series of technical presentations demonstrating the wide-ranging relevance of mathematical sciences in addressing real-world challenges across health, urban development, energy, finance, agriculture, and environmental systems. The presentations reinforced the workshop’s overarching goal of strengthening academia-industry collaboration through applied research and innovation.
European technical expert, Prof. Matti Heilio, set the tone with a keynote address on the global evolution of industrial mathematics. He outlined how structured partnerships between universities and industry have historically driven innovation and economic transformation in advanced economies, and emphasized the importance of building similar ecosystems to support Uganda’s research and innovation agenda.
In her presentation, Dr. Rebecca Nsubuga, Visiting Professor at Hasselt University, Belgium, shared insights on the growing role of mathematical methods in medical research and clinical decision-making. Similarly, Dr. Irumba Richard, former Director of Physical Planning at Kampala Capital City Authority, demonstrated how mathematical modelling can inform sustainable urban planning in rapidly growing cities such as Kampala. His presentation highlighted the importance of data-driven planning tools in managing urban expansion and infrastructure pressures.
Focusing on aquaculture, Dr. Kubiriza Kawooya Godfrey, Head of the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences at Makerere University explained how investment and production decisions are fundamentally grounded in mathematical reasoning. He emphasized the need for robust modelling of biological and economic variables to enhance productivity, efficiency, and decision-making in the sector.
Dr. Dennis Ndanguza from the University of Rwanda presented mathematical models supporting the extraction of methane from Lake Kivu, illustrating how applied mathematics can contribute to sustainable energy development and improved resource management.
From the financial sector, Mr. Grace Semakula of Stanbic Bank Group highlighted the growing importance of mathematical sciences in enhancing financial decision-making, risk assessment, and long-term investment planning. From the healthcare sector, Dr. Iddi Ndyabawe presented on retinopathy of prematurity in Uganda, showing how quantitative approaches can improve early diagnosis, guide clinical interventions, and ultimately enhance treatment outcomes for vulnerable neonatal populations.
Towards Sustainable Collaboration
The workshop concluded with a shared commitment to sustained engagement between universities and industry, aimed at ensuring that mathematical research contributes more directly to economic development and societal needs.
Participants recommended the establishment of structured follow-up activities, including future Mathematics in Industry Study Groups, where selected industrial challenges will be further explored through joint academic–industry research teams.
About the CoRE-MATH Initiative
The CoRE-MATH (Cluster of Research Excellence in Mathematics) Initiative is an Africa-Europe collaborative research programme established in 2024 under the partnership of the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) and The Guild of European Research-Intensive Universities.
The initiative seeks to strengthen mathematics research, postgraduate education, and academic collaboration between African and European universities. Its core objectives include building research capacity in African institutions, enhancing the quality and volume of joint mathematical research, supporting doctoral training, and promoting the participation of women in mathematics. It also aims to apply mathematical knowledge to address social, economic, and developmental challenges across Africa.
The initiative brings together leading universities from both continents. African partner institutions include Makerere University, the University of Nairobi, the University of Rwanda, the University of Dar es Salaam, Addis Ababa University, the University of Zambia, and Stellenbosch University. These institutions collaborate with European universities such as Uppsala University, the University of Amsterdam, and the University of Oslo.
Through joint research projects, academic exchanges, workshops, conferences, and collaborative PhD programmes, CoRE-MATH fosters knowledge sharing and strengthens international research networks. In Uganda, Makerere University plays a central role in advancing mathematical sciences and developing highly skilled researchers for the region.
Pictorial of the workshop: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1if6y8bYPOt8vW6Tm6k50Wspg0XFibl02?usp=sharing
Natural Sciences
Change of Guard: Prof. Michael Owor Hands Over Office of Dean, School of Physical Sciences to Prof. David Ssevviiri
Prof. Michael Owor has officially handed over the office of Dean, School of Physical Sciences to Prof. David Ssevviiri. Prof. Owor has served as Dean since 1st February 2022. Following his appointment by the University Council, Prof. Ssevviiri will serve as Dean for the next four years, effective 6th May 2026.
Handover Ceremony
Held on 28th May 2026 in the office of the Dean, the handover ceremony was overseen by Makerere University Chief of Internal Audit, Mr. Patrick Akonyet. It was attended by the Deputy Principal of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Prof. Juma Kasozi; the Head of the Department of Chemistry, Dr Emmanuel Tebandeke; the representative of the Head of the Department of Physics, Dr. Nicholas Kwarikunda; the representative of the Head of the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, Dr Denis Mutebi; the College Human Resource Officer, Ms. Kevin Nabiryo Mikwano; and the College and School Registrars.
Remarks from the College leadership
On behalf of the College leadership, Prof. Juma Kasozi commended Prof. Owor for his dedicated service and leadership throughout his tenure and congratulated Prof. Ssevviiri upon his appointment, wishing him success in his new role.
Achievements and remarks by the outgoing Dean
During his tenure, Prof. Owor chaired the School Academic Board and several key committees, including the Establishment and Appointments Committee, the Examination Malpractices Committee, and the Irregularities and Appeals Committee. He also presided over MSc viva voce examinations and PhD public defenses. Under his leadership, he ensured the timely submission of results, eliminated academic backlogs, and strengthened the coordination of graduate examinations, while also supporting the development and review of academic programmes. He has also served as the Patron of the CoNAS Students’ Guild.
In his remarks, Prof. Owor expressed gratitude to the University Council and Management for the opportunity accorded to him to serve as Dean. He also thanked the College leadership and staff for their support and reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the University.
“I want to thank the University Management through the Chief Human Resource Officer for appointing me as dean, School of Physical Sciences for the last four years. I pledge my total support to the incoming Dean of the School. I also pledge to continue offering my services to the University through my mother Department, Geology and Petroleum Studies.”
Remarks from the Directorate of Human Resources
Representing the Directorate of Human Resources (DHR), Ms. Kevin Nabiryo Mikwano commended Prof. Owor for his leadership and contributions during his tenure.
“You have steered the school through curriculum reforms, staff development, student growth, and your commitment to both staff and students has not gone unnoticed. The foundation you have laid will continue to support the school’s progress. Thank you for your partnership with the Directorate of Human Resources in ensuring staff welfare, recruitment, and performance processes were handled with integrity and care.”
She also congratulated Prof. Ssevviiri on his appointment, expressing confidence in his leadership and vision. She reaffirmed the Directorate’s readiness to support him in team building, talent management, and fostering a positive working environment for academic, administrative, and support staff. She further encouraged staff to maintain strong collaboration with the incoming Dean, emphasizing: “The success of the school depends on how well we work together. At the DHR, our commitment is to ensure that policies, processes, and people management practices support the school’s academic mission. May this handover mark the beginning of another strong chapter for the School of Physical Sciences.”
Guidance on the officially recognized Government handover procedure
The Chief of Internal Audit, Mr. Patrick Akonyet, commended both the outgoing and incoming Deans and emphasized adherence to the Government of Uganda handover and taking of office procedures. He noted that strict compliance with established guidelines is essential for accountability, transparency, institutional continuity, and smooth transition of responsibilities.
Remarks by the incoming Dean
In his remarks, Prof. David Ssevviiri thanked Prof. Owor for his service and appreciated the University Management for his appointment. He emphasized the importance of the School of Physical Sciences in advancing science and innovation. “We have a responsibility of nurturing our students into innovative problem solvers. The future of Science depends on how well we prepare our students. Building on the successes of my predecessors, and working collaboratively through our Departments, we can further contribute to solving real world challenges.
Profile of Prof. David Ssevviiri
Prof. David Ssevviiri is a Ugandan mathematician and academic leader serving as an Associate Professor of Mathematics at Makerere University, College of Natural Sciences. He is widely recognized for his work in pure mathematics, particularly in algebra, module theory, ring theory, algebraic geometry, and local cohomology.
He holds a Bachelor of Science with Education in Mathematics and Chemistry from Makerere University, as well as a Master of Science in Mathematics from the same institution. He also obtained an additional MSc and a PhD in Mathematics from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (now Nelson Mandela University), South Africa. His doctoral research, A Contribution to the Theory of Prime Modules, focused on advanced module theory and algebra.
Prof. Ssevviiri joined Makerere University in 2011 as an Assistant Lecturer and rose to the rank of Associate Professor in 2022. He previously served as Head of the Department of Mathematics from 2015 to 2020, where he contributed to strengthening teaching, research collaboration, and postgraduate training.
His research interests include primeness and nilpotency in ring and module theory, torsion theory, radical theory, homological algebra, and the interaction between algebra and algebraic geometry. He has authored and co-authored several peer-reviewed publications in international journals, contributing significantly to advancements in abstract algebra.
Beyond teaching and research, he has contributed to mathematics development in East Africa through student supervision, external examining, and coordination of regional academic programs. He has also participated in initiatives aimed at promoting mathematics education and encouraging young people to pursue careers in science and technology.
Pictorial of the ceremony: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1pmWX5H46UHbFkTT-I4OIJwFbXIwuO6e1?usp=sharing
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