Engineering, Art & Tech
CEDAT Awards Best Preforming Students during 72nd Graduation Ceremony
On Friday 27th May 2022, The College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) presented students to the Chancellor Makerere University Prof. Ezra Suruma for graduation. The event which was the 5th and last session of the 72nd Graduation ceremony saw the award of outstanding students who graduated with First Class Honors degrees.
The Plagues were handed over by the Chancellor of Makerere University Professor Ezra Suruma in line with the culture of the college that recognizes the academically outstanding students.
The awardees included Mr. Musinguzi Denis, Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, who got a First Class Honors degree with a CGPA of 4.74. In second position was Ms. Asiimwe Vanessa Elina, Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying offered in the School of Built Environment who got a First Class Honors Degree with a CGPA of 4.69. Mr. Ssempala Joseph as the best student from Margaret Trowell School of Industrial and Fine Art, First Class Honors Degree with a CGPA of 4.67
The Principal of the College Prof. Henry Alinaitwe presented graduands who graduated with PhDs and thanked God for serving Makerere University in two capacities as the Principal College Engineering, Design, Art and Technology and Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration. He congratulated CEDAT staff that graduated with PhDs namely Dr. Brian Makabayi, Dr. Sarah Nakisanze and Dr. Allan Mazimwe.
The Chancellor Makerere University Prof. Ezra Suruma while addressing the congregation comprised of graduands and their parents and guardians, the members of the University council and invited guests extended his appreciation to the administration and academic staff for their input into the processes that led to the graduation. To Government, development partners and other stakeholders he applauded their tremendous contribution to the growth of the University more so at the time of celebrating 100 years.
While addressing the graduands, Prof. Suruma said the word out there was filled with a number of challenges citing the war between Russia and Ukraine that has affected the economic stand of the country which calls for new solutions for survival by being more aggressive and creative.
While citing the example of the Uganda Martyrs, the Chancellor said these made a stand for what they believed and paid with their lives. ‘As long as the challenges of poverty and injustice remain, we have no choice but to struggle for solutions for survival in our world’, he counseled the graduands.
The Vice Chancellor Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe noted that the University was able to said through and graduate her students despite the challenges that arose in the onset of Covid- 19 and the subsequent closures. He commended the University Council for the support and guidance that enabled the university to push through and minimize the time lost.
Prof. Nawangwe said Makerere University has continued to grow her research capacity in line with the strategic plan (2020-2030) which seeks Makerere to be a fully research led university, and boasted of the increased number of academic staff holding Ph.Ds. making Makerere 2nd best in Africa in research.
While addressing himself about the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, Prof Nawangwe informed that gathering of some of the developments that made the University proud. He said that on July 21st, 2021 The University commissioned a state-of-the-art Scanning Electronic Microscope that was installed at the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology. The equipment, procured by the government at Shs 2.6 billion will help researchers undertake studies and investigations in Materials, Nanotechnology, drug analysis, forensics, and biomedical engineering, among other things. The Equipment was procured under the Presidential Initiative on Epidemics (PRESIDE) and was received under the Africa Center of Excellence in Materials Product Development and Nanotechnology (MAPRONANO ACE). The Microscope is used in the analysis of materials for the production of medicine, vaccines, forensic examinations from crime and accident scenes, and gene analysis among many others.
Further, he said, the College of Engineering, Design Art, and Technology continues to offer professional guidance and support to the University. Led by Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, the Principal, the College helped in redesigning the Main Administration Building of the University whose construction has started. He said some Architecture 4th-year students came up with structural designs for the expansion and improvement of Makerere University Hospital and that although this was part of their study, the designs were very much appreciated.
Makerere University will demonstrate its interest in the preservation and promotion of Uganda’s cultural, social, and political heritage with the opening of the Muteesa II Memorial Museum at the end of June 2022. The Museum will not only contribute to the growth of the tourism industry in Uganda but will also help celebrate the life and time of Ssekabaka Muteesa II as an alumnus of Makerere University, Kabaka, and President of the Republic of Uganda.
Prof. Nawangwe urged the graduands to put to good use the knowledge received to change communities, the country and humanity. He informed graduands that the transcripts for graduands on 4 and 5-year programmers were ready for picking the following week and for those on 3-year programmers, would be ready for picking beginning the second week of June 2022.
Education
Makerere University Charts New Future with the unveiling of the Open, Distance and E‑Learning Building and Strategic Plan
By Harriet Musinguzi, CEDAT
Makerere University has embarked on a transformative journey in higher education with the official launch of its Open, Distance and E‑Learning (ODeL) Strategic Plan and the laying of the foundation stone for a new ODeL facility at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT). The event, attended by dignitaries, university leaders, and international partners, marked a milestone in Uganda’s quest to harness digital technology for accessible, innovative, and inclusive education.
Presiding over the ceremony, Ms. Jihee Ahn, Country Director of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), underscored the spirit of collaboration that has defined the project. She praised the collective efforts of Korean partners, Makerere’s project management team, and the construction and consulting teams.
Quoting an African proverb, she reminded the audience that “a single stick cannot make fire”, emphasizing that the success of the initiative lies in shared purpose and unity. Drawing from Korean wisdom, she added, “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” noting that this launch is the first step toward positioning Makerere as a leader in open and distance education across Africa.
“This new building will not be just a physical structure but a driving force that advances our shared vision,” Ms. Ahn said. “KOICA looks forward to continued cooperation with Makerere University and all partners as we move forward together.” she added.
Representing the University Council Chairperson Dr. Lorna Magara, Dr. Silas Ngabirano highlighted the broader significance of the ODeL project. He described it as a turning point in bridging the gap between traditional teaching methods and modern learning needs. “This project is more than just providing technology,” he said. “It’s about enhancing capacity for our students, faculty, and staff. It’s about making education more accessible and affordable, fostering innovation, creativity, and lifelong learning.” He urged staff and students to embrace the opportunities offered by online distance learning, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to supporting initiatives that expand access to higher education.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Prof. Sarah Ssali, emphasized that e‑learning is a central pillar in Makerere’s Strategic Plan (2026–2030). She noted that the initiative aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan IV, which prioritizes digital transformation by 2030.
“ODeL provides opportunities for students inside and outside Uganda to engage in learning, access cutting-edge research, and participate in innovation and entrepreneurship,” he said. “Now that ODeL is getting a home, there is no excuse for not delivering.”
Prof. Nawangwe expressed gratitude to KOICA and the people of Korea for the US$12.2 milliongrant, describing it as a testament to Makerere’s reputation as a center of academic excellence and innovation. He also acknowledged the support of Uganda’s Ministry of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.
The Principal Investigator, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, outlined three core components of the project: the development of the ODeL Masterplan, the enhancement of e‑learning infrastructure through a state‑of‑the‑art facility and modern equipment, and capacity building to equip staff with the skills needed to create high‑quality digital content. He explained that the construction, valued at USD 3.7 million, is being undertaken by SMS Construction Ltd, with designs developed by ArchForum Consultants Ltd, and is scheduled for completion by September 29, 2027.
Prof. Henry Alinaitwe explained that the ODeL Masterplan was developed through a highly consultative process, engaging numerous Makerere University staff and working closely with project consultants to ensure inclusivity and relevance. He expressed deep appreciation to the implementing partners, the Korea National Open University (KNOU) and the Korea Institute ofDevelopment Strategy (KDS) for their invaluable support in making the initiative a success.
Prof. Alinaitwe also commended the Makerere University Council for approving the allocation of space and committing to maintain the building and systems once operational. He recognized the dedication of the project implementation team, which includes Dr. Venny Nakazibwe(Co‑PI), Prof. Paul Muyinda, Dr. Godfrey Mayende, Mr. Samuel Mugabi, Mr. Alex Mwebaze, Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere, and Dr. Lydia Mazzi Ndandiko, for their tireless efforts in managing the project. He further acknowledged KOICA Country Director Ms. Jihee Ahn for expanding the scope of the project beyond the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) to encompass
Written by Musinguzi Harriet, Principal Communication Officer, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology.
Engineering, Art & Tech
Civil Engineering Students Witness Borehole Drilling at Kasozi Health Centre III
Year 4 Civil Engineering students at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology recently stepped beyond the classroom and into the field, visiting Kasozi Health Centre III inWakiso District to witness the drilling of a new borehole. This is a transformative project set to address the center’s persistent water supply challenges. For both staff and patients, this infrastructure promises a more reliable and sustainable resource.
For the students, the experience was more than just observation. It was a vivid demonstration of how theoretical knowledge in hydraulics and soil mechanics translates into practical solutions for real-world problems.
From Data Collection to Community Impact
This milestone was the culmination of months of collaboration. The Rotary Club of Kiwenda first identified the need for a borehole and mapped out the most strategic location for drilling. Earlier, as part of the WALLACE project facilitated by Engineers Without Borders – EastAfrica, a multidisciplinary team of our students collected site data at the health center. Their insights directly informed the borehole’s placement, allowing them to see their academic work evolve into a tangible community asset.
CEDAT extend our sincere gratitude to the Rotary Club of Kiwenda for funding and organizing this vital project, and for inviting our students to witness the drilling. Special thanks also go to Engineers Without Borders – East Africa for providing such an impactful learning opportunity through the WALLACE project. This initiative highlights the power of partnerships in bridging the gap between education and meaningful action, empowering students to contribute to solutions that improve lives.
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