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Mak Celebrates a Legacy of Leadership

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Dawn broke to a cold and overcast morning on Friday 17th March 2023. As if sensing the impending downpour, motorists and pedestrians alike made haste to get to their respective destinations; not a soul willing to add wetness to an already cold morning. But, not to be outdone, mother nature had other plans. The skies opened up, and down came the rain, nothing thunderous or menacing but steady nevertheless. And then it let up, but after a few minutes, resumed in earnest, continuing the pattern intermittently as the traffic slowed to a crawl, occasionally grinding to a halt.

So continued the trend until the gates of the Kampala Serena Conference Centre came into view. Security checks cleared, the teardrop banners were hard to miss; drenched to the core but still standing tall, their various messages welcoming guests to a celebration of Makerere University. Parking slots secured, the sighs of relief were unmistakable as guests finally made it into the quiet cavernous foyer of the Conference centre.

The vocals and melodies by Dr. Milton Wabyona (2nd R) and his ensemble ushered guests into the hall and kept them entertained.
The vocals and melodies by Dr. Milton Wabyona (2nd R) and his ensemble ushered guests into the hall and kept them entertained.

As one started to wonder if they were in the right place, a look to the right revealed a clue, a pull-up banner, beckoning guests upstairs. Steps cushioned by the deep red carpet, another clue beckoned on the ascent, a soft interplay of adungu and tube fiddle interwoven with song melodiously pouring out of a room at the end of the corridor. As one drew closer, the singing voices became more distinct, particularly that of Dr. Milton Wabyona as he effortlessly led the vocals of one of many traditional songs.

Katonga Hall was bathed in soft light, abuzz with warm greetings and laughter, as long lost friends and colleagues caught up, the total opposite of mother nature’s cold display on the outside. The host and Chairperson of Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, assisted by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and members of Management was on hand to welcome her guests, freely mingling, beaming with appreciation as Makerere University celebrated a Legacy of Leadership. The University Secretary, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda and day’s emcee too worked his way across the room, ensuring that there was not letting up on celebratory mood, and that all went according to schedule.

Mrs. Lorna Magara (Left) welcomes former Vice Chancellors Prof. George Kirya (Right) and Prof. Livingstone Luboobi (2nd Right).
Mrs. Lorna Magara (Left) welcomes former Vice Chancellors Prof. George Kirya (Right) and Prof. Livingstone Luboobi (2nd Right).

Commencing the formalities, Prof. Nawangwe thanked the Chairperson of Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara for bringing the idea of celebrating Makerere‘s past leadership to life. He noted that it was important to pay homage to the gallant men and women, both living and deceased, that had sacrificed their lives to serve and protect Makerere, especially during turbulent political times.

On this note, he made special mention of Owek. Martin Luther Nsibirwa, Makerere‘s first Vice Chancellor, Mr. Frank Kalimuzo and Ms. Theresa Nanziri Bukenya the warden of Africa Hall as some those that lost their lives because of the values they stood for. “These are celebrated great sons and daughters of Uganda who made Makerere not only thrive but also progress.”

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe delivers his remarks at the Legacy of Leadership Celebration.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe delivers his remarks at the Legacy of Leadership Celebration.

Prof. Nawangwe equally thanked the celebrants for sparing time to attend the event as well as the families of those who had since passed on for honouring the University’s invitation..

Former Makerere University leaders present or represented that received their awards on the day included;

 CATEGORYNAMETERM OF OFFICEREPRESENTED BY
AFORMER CHANCELLORS
  1. Prof. Apolo Robin Nsibambi2003–2007  Daughters:
Juliet Nsibambi Kasujja
Violet Nsibambi
  2. Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera2007–2011, 2012–2015Self
BFORMER CHAIRPERSONS OF COUNCIL
  1. Eng. Dr. Charles Wana-Etyem2018–2022 Self
  2. Hon. Mathew Rukikaire2010–2018 Self
  3. Canon John Bikangaga1990–1996Son & Daughter
Eng. Andrew Bikangaga
Mrs. Margaret Kakitahi Bikangaga
CFORMER VICE CHAIRPERSONS OF COUNCIL
  1. Mrs. Christine R.M. Kiganda2002–2010Self
DFORMER VICE CHANCELLORS
  1. Prof Livingstone Serwadda  Luboobi2004–2009Self
  2. Prof. Pancas John Mukasa Lubowa Ssebuwufu1993–2004  Son:
Mr. Martin Mwanje
  3. Prof. Barnabas George Kirya1986–1990Self
  4. Prof. William Senteza Kajubi1977–1979, 1990–1993Daughters:
Mrs. Betty Mugoya Kajubi
Ms. Samalie Kajubi
  9. Mr. Frank Kalimuzo1970–1972Son & Daughter: Daniel Kalimuzo Phyllis Kalimuzo
EFORMER DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLORS (ACADEMIC AFFAIRS)
  1. Lady Justice Prof. Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza2004–2009 2007–2012Self
FFORMER DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLORS (FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION)
  1. Prof William Bazeyo2017–2020Self
  2. Prof. Barnabas Nawanagwe2013–2017Self
  3. Prof. Sandy Stephens Tickodri – Togboa2009–2013Self
  4. Prof. David Justin Bakibinga2004–2009Self
Mr. Yusuf Kiranda (Centre) interacts with Hon. Mathew Rukikaire (Left) and Mrs. Christine Kiganda (Right) during the celebrations.
Mr. Yusuf Kiranda (Centre) interacts with Hon. Mathew Rukikaire (Left) and Mrs. Christine Kiganda (Right) during the celebrations.

An event of this distinction would be incomplete without a moving address. And none was better placed than one who previously served Makerere as Guild President in 1962 and as Chairperson of Council for two successive terms, an author in his own right, 70 Years A Witness of Uganda’s pre and post-independence struggles, the Honourable Mathew Rukikaire.

A few opening statements into his keynote address, Hon. Rukikaire had the audience feeding right out of the palm of his hand, with every sentence well articulated with poise as he expertly knitted the histories of Uganda and Makerere together. One could easily tell how passionately he felt about his alma mater.

Hon. Mathew Rukikaire delivers his keynote address at Makerere University's celebration of a Legacy of Leadership.
Hon. Mathew Rukikaire delivers his keynote address at Makerere University‘s celebration of a Legacy of Leadership.

“…so were Makerere’s fortunes adversely affected; yet, mercifully, its star was one of those that remained shining in that dark night” cited one example, in reference to the dark period following Mr. Frank Kalimuzo’s abrupt disappearance in 1972. “As they say, stars shine brightest when the night is darkest. Makerere continued to shine in Uganda’s darkest hour” he added reverently of his Alma mater.

Hon. Rukikaire nevertheless had a few pointers on what he thought ought to be Makerere‘s role, in the next two to three decades. Earlier, he had made reference to Africa’s exploding population and the apparent lack of jobs for its youth combined with the slow pace of development of its mineral resources as “the greatest demographic upheaval in history”.

Juliet Nsibambi Kasujja and Violet Nsibambi receive the Certificate of Recognition on behalf of their late father Rt. Hon. Prof. Apolo Robin Nsibambi from Mrs. Lorna Magara (Right).
Juliet Nsibambi Kasujja and Violet Nsibambi receive the Certificate of Recognition on behalf of their late father Rt. Hon. Prof. Apolo Robin Nsibambi from Mrs. Lorna Magara (Right).

He however expressed hope that in prioritizing three things; Education, Regional Integration and Macroeconomic Stability, Africa still had opportunity to tap into the potential of its youth and reap the demographic dividend.

“I propose that Makerere as the oldest university in East Africa spearheads the search for and propose solutions to these problems by establishing a faculty or a specialized department to deal with these in Sub-Saharan Africa, covering economic integration, population and demography, environment and related technical training to support these efforts”, he submitted.

Lady Justice Prof. Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza (Left) receives her Certificate of Recognition from Mrs. Lorna Magara (Right).
Lady Justice Prof. Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza (Left) receives her Certificate of Recognition from Mrs. Lorna Magara (Right).

Hon. Rukikaire opined that by hosting such a centre, Makerere “would be able to attract global support and financing, because its impact and ramifications would be global.”

Delivering the day’s concluding remarks, Mrs. Lorna Magara thanked Hon.Rukikaire for an address she termed as “insightful and passionate”, noting that it was a great indicator that Makerere‘s former leaders “are still passionate and concerned for its growth, progress, and impact on our society.”

Mrs. Lorna Magara smiles as she witnesses the proceedings of the celebration.
Mrs. Lorna Magara smiles as she witnesses the proceedings of the celebration.

The Chairperson added that the day’s celebration was not only aimed at honouring past and continuing diligent service of Makerere‘s leaders but also cherishing the contributions of those who selflessly served the institution but have since passed on. “It is our humble gesture as the current leadership of this great institution to demonstrate that we remember and sincerely appreciate their respective contributions and influence long after their departure.”

Mrs. Magara affirmed the University leadership’s commitment to ensuring that it consolidates the gains made in Makerere‘s first century, by putting in place the appropriate policy environment responsive to emerging technology breakthroughs and their anticipated disruption of various sectors.

Seated Left to Right: Prof. Livingstone Luboobi, Prof. George Kirya, Prof. Umar Kakumba, Mrs. Lorna Magara, Ms. Phyllis Kalimuzo and Mrs. Betty Mugoya Kajubi. Standing Left to Right: Mr. Daniel Kalimuzo, Mr. Martin Mwanje and Ms. Samalie Kajubi pose with their Certificates of Recognition.
Seated Left to Right: Prof. Livingstone Luboobi, Prof. George Kirya, Prof. Umar Kakumba, Mrs. Lorna Magara, Ms. Phyllis Kalimuzo and Mrs. Betty Mugoya Kajubi. Standing Left to Right: Mr. Daniel Kalimuzo, Mr. Martin Mwanje and Ms. Samalie Kajubi pose with their Certificates of Recognition.

Makerere has had 100 years of being fed, empowered, nurtured and supported. The next 100 must be years of coming out of the University and impacting society; Makerere must be relevant to the nation, the nations around us, and to Africa” she emphasized.

The Chairperson concluded the day’s remarks by extending an open invitation to Makerere‘s elders to a fireplace conversation, where the younger generation can ask questions, hear their stories, and receive wisdom. “There is so much more that we lose if we don’t connect with our elders,” she politely added.

Mrs. Margaret Kakitahi Bikangaga (2nd Right) and Eng. Andrew Bikangaga (2nd Left) receive the Certificate of Recognition on behalf of their late father Canon John Bikangaga from Mrs. Lorna Magara (Right) as Prof. Umar Kakumba (Left) and Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga (Rear) witness.
Mrs. Margaret Kakitahi Bikangaga (2nd Right) and Eng. Andrew Bikangaga (2nd Left) receive the Certificate of Recognition on behalf of their late father Canon John Bikangaga from Mrs. Lorna Magara (Right) as Prof. Umar Kakumba (Left) and Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga (Rear) witness.

Formalities done, it was time for the elders to once again mingle with the audience and share fond memories. The delight on their faces as they read the wording on their certificates of recognition and souvenirs said it all, it had been a morning well spent.

Mark Wamai

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Applications for Admission to Undergraduate Programmes 2025/26 AY

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The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites applications from Ugandan, East African, and international applicants for the undergraduate programmes under the private sponsorship scheme for the 2025/2026 Academic Year for ‘A’ Level Leavers Only.

Each applicant should:

Have the Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) with at least five (5) passes, or its equivalent and at least two (2) principal passes at Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) obtained at the same sitting. For day programmes only candidates who sat A’ Level in 2024, 2023 and 2022 are eligible to apply. For evening, afternoon, and external programmes, a candidate is not restricted on the year of sitting A’ Level. Detailed information on the weighting system can be accessed by following this link.

Other relevant information can be obtained from UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS OFFICE, LEVEL 3, SENATE BUILDING OR CAN BE found on the University Website https://www.mak.ac.ug. Effective Wednesday 16th April 2025. 

A non-refundable application fee of shs.50,000/= for Ugandans, East African and S. Sudan applicants or $75 or equivalent for internationals  plus bank charges should be paid in any of the banks used by Uganda Revenue Authority.                                           

 Candidates who hold grades X, Y, Z, 7 and 9 of ‘O’Level results should not apply because they are not eligible for admission. Below are the availble courses including respective fees structure.

How to submit your application                                            

  1. Applicants should access the Institution’s Admissions URL https://apply.mak.ac.ug/
  2. Sign up by clicking on the REGISTER NOW. Use your full name, e-mail and Mobile No.  Please note that your name must be similar to the one on your supporting academic documents for your application to be considered valid.
  3. A password will be sent to you on your mobile phone and email.                                      
  4. The system will prompt you to change the password to the one you can easily remember.
  5. To fill an application form, click on the APPLY NOW button displayed on the appropriate running scheme.                                              
  6. Obtain a payment reference number by clicking on “Pay for Form” Button
  7. Make a payment at any of the banks used by Uganda Revenue Authority                                            

MOBILE MONEY PAYMENT STEPS:                                                 

  1. Dial *272*6# on either MTN or Airtel                                                             
  2. Select option 3-Admission                                                     
  3. Select option 3-Pay Fees
  4. Enter reference number obtained from Application portal 
  5. Details of Application form will be confirmed                                                              
  6. Enter PIN to confirm payment                                                            

The closing date for receiving applications to undergraduate programmes shall be Tuesday 20th May 2025.                                                           

WARNING:                                                             

  1. Applicants are strongly warned against presenting forged or other people’s academic documents to support their applications for admission.  The consequences, if discovered, are very grave indeed.
  2. Do not buy any other documents not originating from the Academic Registrar’s Office.  Those who buy them do so at their own risk. 
  3. The Academic Registrar has not appointed any agent to act on his behalf to solicit for additional funds other than the application fee stated above.    
  4. Applicants are advised to use the right programme names and codes. the university will not be responsible for any wrong information entered in the system by applicants.                                               

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

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Embrace the Safeguarding Policy- Makerere Jinja Campus Students urged

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Makerere University Jinja Campus safeguarding policy sensitization meeting for students, staff and stakeholders by the Office of the Dean of Students, 15th April 2025 at the Civil Service College, Jinja, Uganda, East Africa.

The Director of Makerere University Jinja Campus, Associate Professor Ronald Kakungulu-Mayambala, has urged students to familiarise themselves with the Safeguarding policy aimed at creating a safer and more inclusive learning environment.

Speaking during the safeguarding policy sensitization meeting held today Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at the Civil Service College, Jinja, Prof. Kakungulu-Mayambala, emphasized the importance of awareness and adherence to the policy, which seeks to protect students, staff, and other stakeholders from all forms of abuse, harassment, exploitation, and discrimination.

“As Management we want every student to enjoy their stay at the University without being tormented and that can only happen, if students know their rights by reading about different policies on our website. You are meant to be living in a safe environment. We do not want anybody’s dream to be shattered or somebody to drop out from University,” Prof. Kakungulu-Mayambala, said.

Prof. Ronald Kakungulu-Mayambala, the Director Makerere University Jinja Campus. Makerere University Jinja Campus safeguarding policy sensitization meeting for students, staff and stakeholders by the Office of the Dean of Students, 15th April 2025 at the Civil Service College, Jinja, Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Ronald Kakungulu-Mayambala, the Director Makerere University Jinja Campus.

In his speech, Prof. Kakungulu-Mayambala, also called upon students who have complaints but do not know the reporting lines, to approach staff safeguarding champions to make sure that they live in a safe environment.

Addressing guests, Emmanuel Muchake, the Guild Administrator at Jinja Campus, pointed out that the launch of the safeguarding policy is timely because as a University, without creating a conducive environment for teaching and learning, they will not have students graduate.

On Friday, April 4,2025, the Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, officially launched the Safeguarding Policy and commended Makerere University for crafting a policy that lays out the University’s framework for embedding viable safeguarding measures into its ethos and all institutional activities and processes to: Identify, detect, and act swiftly on safeguarding risks.

The Safeguarding Policy was developed in response to the growing need for institutions of higher learning to implement proactive measures that address concerns related to student welfare, mental health, gender-based violence, and power imbalances in academic settings.

Mr. Emmanuel Muchake addressing guests. Makerere University Jinja Campus safeguarding policy sensitization meeting for students, staff and stakeholders by the Office of the Dean of Students, 15th April 2025 at the Civil Service College, Jinja, Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Emmanuel Muchake addressing guests.

Some of potential safeguarding risks in Institutions of higher learning include emotional distress, Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (SEAH); material loss, financial exploitation, discrimination and neglect, unfair and illegitimate response to civic engagements, cyber security/threats, psychological and emotional harm, substance abuse and physical assault. Discrimination and neglect which are often high risks for students with disabilities and international students.

The safeguarding policy sensitization meeting in Jinja Campus brought together students and staff in a meaningful dialogue on safeguarding issues affecting learning.

The event was graced by Dr. Rodney Rugyema, from the Dean of Students Office, who emphasized the University’s commitment to the well-being of all its members. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of safeguarding policies in preventing abuse, harassment, exploitation, and other forms of misconduct within the Jinja Campus community.

“Safeguarding is not a one-time action, but a continuous culture of care and accountability. We all have a role to play in ensuring a safe and respectful space for learning and growth,” Dr Rugyema, said.

Dr. Rodney Rugyema (Left) and Prof. Ronald Kakungulu-Mayambala (Right) during the sensitization. Makerere University Jinja Campus safeguarding policy sensitization meeting for students, staff and stakeholders by the Office of the Dean of Students, 15th April 2025 at the Civil Service College, Jinja, Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Rodney Rugyema (Left) and Prof. Ronald Kakungulu-Mayambala (Right) during the sensitization.

The sensitization session covered key topics including; recognizing signs of abuse, understanding reporting procedures on the MakSafeSpace and fostering mutual respect among peers.

Participants were encouraged to actively engage and reflect on their roles in upholding safety standards both on and off campus.

Students who attended the sensitization welcomed the initiative, with many expressing optimism that the policy would improve campus safety and encourage victims to come forward without fear of retaliation.

“We have seen issues go unreported in the past because students didn’t know where to turn. This policy provides clarity and assurance that the university is taking these matters seriously,” noted, a third-year student.

The University plans to conduct a series of sensitization workshops and distribute printed copies of the policy to ensure that every member of the campus community is well-informed. This initiative is part of Makerere University‘s broader strategy to reinforce its values of integrity, respect, and protection for all.

The Safeguarding Sensitization Meeting concluded with a collective pledge to uphold safety, dignity, and mutual respect within the University community.

Carol Kasujja
Carol Kasujja Adii

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Government Sponsorship Undergraduate Admission Lists 2025/26

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The Office of the Academic Registrar, Makerere University has released admission lists for Government sponsored students for the Academic Year 2025/2026. The Office has also released Cut Off Points for Government Admissions.

Below are lists of candidates admitted to the respective courses tenable at Makerere University and Makerere University Business School:

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