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?
Newly admitted students to the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) have been strongly encouraged to make academic excellence their top priority as they begin their university journey. During the official College orientation held on 6th August 2025, continuing students shared valuable insights aimed at helping the freshers adapt and thrive both academically and socially in the university environment.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Britah Kemigisha and Mr. Leakey Mbabazi, students of Conservation Biology and Petroleum Geosciences respectively, offered practical advice drawn from their experiences at CoNAS. The two students emphasized the importance of time management, consistent class attendance, and fostering healthy academic competition.
“Be ambitious and attend classes because attendance earns you some marks. Be competitive in a way that promotes excellence,” Mbabazi advised. He encouraged freshers to approach university life with purpose, noting that unlike in high school, university students must take personal responsibility for their learning outcomes. He recommended the use of professional networking platforms like LinkedIn, emphasizing their value in facilitating meaningful connections, expanding one’s professional network, discovering job opportunities, and staying updated on industry trends and insights.
Ms. Kemigisha underscored the importance of building supportive peer networks. “Form groups and inspire each other with rewards based on academic excellence,” she advised, emphasizing that academic group work, peer mentorship, and study circles can be powerful tools for motivation and accountability. According to her, surrounding oneself with goal-oriented individuals creates a positive learning environment that fosters growth and resilience, especially when faced with academic challenges.
The orientation programme served as a platform to introduce First Year students to the academic programmes, services, and student life at CoNAS and the University in general. The session led by the Deputy Principal, Prof. Juma Kasozi featured presentations by both College and University leaders, who sensitized the new students on key university policies, academic structures, and support services. School Deans and Heads of Departments in attendance briefed students on the specific programmes offered within their respective units. These included the Dean, School of Physical Sciences, Prof. Michael Owor; the Dean, School of Biosciences, Prof. Arthur Tugume; the Head, Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, represented by Dr Joel Isanga; the Head, Department of Chemistry, Dr Emmanuel Tebandeke; the Head, Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, Dr Arthur Batte; the Head, Department of Mathematics, Dr Ismail Mirumbe; the Head, Department of Physics, Dr Denis Okello; the Head, Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences, Dr Godfrey Kawooya Kubiriza; the Head, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology represented by Dr Godwin Anywar, and a representative from the Department of Exercise and Sports Science. Students were also sensitized on the registration and examination processes, ICT support services, library services, fees payment policies, the Anti-sexual Harassment Policy, counselling and guidance services, the emerging leaders programme, and general welfare at the University.
On behalf of the Principal, the Deputy Principal, Prof. Juma Kasozi warmly welcomed the newly admitted students to the College.He provided an insightful overview of the key academic units and programmes offered both within the College and across the University. In his address, Prof. Kasozi congratulated the students on securing admission into one of the most competitive, vibrant, and intellectually rigorous colleges within the University. He encouraged the students to take full ownership of their academic journey, emphasizing the importance of commitment, discipline, and focus from the very beginning. Highlighting the value of hard work and determination, he reminded them that the foundation they lay now will shape their future success.
In his address, the Manager of the Counselling and Guidance Centre at the University, Mr. Henry Nsubuga, emphasized the importance of safeguarding mental health. He urged students to prioritize their psychological well-being, noting that maintaining a healthy mind is fundamental for academic success and overall personal development. Mr. Nsubuga encouraged students to actively seek support and adopt positive coping mechanisms to navigate the pressures of academic life.
The lectures are expected to commence on Monday, 11th August 2024.
Essential ICT platforms to guide academic work
- Student Portal – https://myportal.mak.ac.ug/
- Email activation – https://sso.mak.ac.ug/
- Webmail – https://webmail.mak.ac.ug/
- Online learning Platform – https://muele.mak.ac.ug/
- Library System – https://mulib.mak.ac.ug
- Knowledge base – https://answers.mak.ac.ug/
- Ticketing system – https://support.mak.ac.ug/
- Mak Policies – https://policies.mak.ac.ug
- DICTs Youtube Channel – @dictsmakerere
- MAK AIR & Eduroam – Use your mak email and its password
Natural Sciences
Makerere Researchers Call for Urgent Conservation of Medicinal Plants in Eastern Uganda
Researchers from the Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University have highlighted the urgent need to conserve medicinal plants in the face of increasing threats from climate change, over-harvesting, and habitat destruction.
Despite Namutumba District’s rich diversity of medicinal plants, conservation efforts are limited, and several species are already classified as globally and nationally threatened. This highlights the urgent need for focused conservation strategies to safeguard these vulnerable medicinal plants.
Under a project titled “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” a team of researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume documented 174 medicinal plant species. The goal was to assess the existential threats facing these plants due to unsustainable harvesting practices and the lack of effective conservation measures. These species are widely used to treat various health conditions, including malaria, syphilis, diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers. The findings of the study are intended to guide the development of species-specific, evidence-based interventions to curb possible extinction and loss of medicinal plant resources. The research revealed troubling trends in the availability of key medicinal plants, including:
- The herbalists mostly collected their medicinal plants from bushlands (92.0%), markets (82.3%) and wetlands (74.7%) and were rarely cultivated. This is of great concern regarding the conservation and future availability of these resources.
- It was noted that 36% of the herbal products were made from roots, which presents a conservation threat since the heavy utilization of roots affects the regeneration of the medicinal plants.
- Common plants used were: Kigelia africana (Naibere), Erythrina abyssinica (Ekiyirikiti) and Geranium sauveolens (Lokowe). Kigelia africana was the most cited species by the herbalists, indicating heavy utilization and a high conservation threat if deliberate measures are not taken to ensure its future availability.
- Almost all respondents (289, 96.3%) acknowledged a considerable decline in the availability of 13 medicinal plants species including Aloe wollastonii (Ekigagi), Commiphora africana (Nkulidho), Myrica kandtiana (Mukikimbo) and Acacia sieberiana (Mufundawuzi).
- Four plant species i.e. Tamarindus indica (Enkoge), Warburgia ugandensis (Balwegira), Mitragyna rubrastipulata (Mutamatama) and Mondia whitei (Mulondo) appear on the Red List of Globally and Nationally Threatened Species and were mentioned among the plants whose population has greatly declined.
- The causes of decline in availability of medicinal plants included climate change, overharvesting, agricultural expansion, habitat destruction, land use change and inadequate regulations.
- There were no medicinal plant conservation efforts by herbalists.
The study recommended the following practices to ensure conservation of the medicinal plants:
- Promote the use of sustainable harvesting techniques to ensure conservation of medicinal plants.
- Conduct capacity building for stakeholders in the medicinal plants sector on conservation, value addition and standardization.
- Establish community botanical gardens raw plant collection and sensitization programmes.
- Advocate for agroforestry among herbalists to reduce the dependence on natural habitats.
- Develop and enforce regulations on accessing natural areas for medicinal plants.
- Promote conservation awareness campaigns.
Research Dissemination in Namutumba District
At the research dissemination workshop held in Namutumba District on 23rd July 2025, and attended by district leaders, researchers, and local herbalists, the project team led by Dr Patience Tugume expressed hope that the insights gained from the project, particularly in medicinal plants conservation approaches, will be invaluable for minimising the decline in medicinal plants.
In her remarks, Dr Tugume, thanked the Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF) for funding the project. She expressed gratitude to the research team composed of Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa, Dr Jamilu E. Ssenku, Dr Savina Asiimwe, and Dr Abdul Walusansa who have worked with her closely from project inception in February 2024. She further thanked the research assistants and all respondents, mainly the herbalists that participated in the study.
In a special way, she appreciated Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu (Resident District Commissioner), Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel (Chief Administrative Officer), Mr. Kiire Noah (Communication Officer), Mr. Mugunywa Enock (District Community Development Officer), Mr. Kirya Moses (District Environmental Officer), Mr. Bamusubire William (District Forest Officer) and the leaders of herbalist associations for providing support throughout the study and sparing time to attend the dissemination workshop.
Addressing the participants, the Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu urged all stakeholders to engage in a collaborative discussion on how the study findings can be translated into practical solutions to promote sustainable use and conservation of commonly used medicinal plants in Namutumba District amidst adverse effects of climate change.
Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel, the Chief Administrative Officer, praised the Makerere research team for selecting Namutumba as the study area. He said the research served as an eye-opener to the district officials and community, especially regarding the pressure exerted on natural medicinal resources.
Report compiled by Dr Patience Tugume and Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa – Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, CoNAS, Makerere University
-
General2 weeks agoMary Stuart Hall Reborn: Makerere Celebrates Reopening of Historic Female Residence
-
Computing & IS2 weeks agoCoCIS CIPSD Physical & Online Short Courses Aug-Oct 2025 Intakes
-
General2 weeks agoE-Mobility Skilling Programme: Cohort 2 Applications Now Open!
-
Research2 weeks agoMakerere Scientists Document Climate-Smart Innovation in Sentema, Applaud Farmer’s Odor-Control Breakthrough
-
General5 days agoProf. Sarah Ssali Commits to Strengthen Makerere’s Teaching–Research Nexus