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Mak 89^th Guild Sworn in, Urged to Uphold Dialogue

Published

3 years ago

April 26, 2023

Mak Editor

The DVCFA-Prof. Henry Alinatwe (Centre) and Dean of Students-Mrs. Winifred Kabumbuli (2nd Left) flanked by 89th Guild President-H.E. Robert Maseruka (4th Right), His Vice-H.E. Mariat Namiiro (3rd Right) and other Cabinet Members after the Swearing-in Ceremony on 24th April 2023, Yusuf Lule Auditorium, Makerere University.

_{By Ritah Namisango}

Commissioning the Makerere University 89^th Guild Government under the leadership of H.E. Robert Maseruka, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe urged the newly elected student leaders to uphold dialogue and work with the University Management to deliver services to students.

Prof. Nawangwe, who was represented by Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), made the remark during the swearing-in-ceremony of the 89^th Guild leadership held on Monday 24^th April 2023 at the Makerere University Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium.

Prof. Henry Alinaitwe (Right) and the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga (Left) with one of the candidates at the Swearing-In Ceremony.

Upon taking the oath, H.E. Robert Maseruka promised to serve in the best interest of Makerere University students and work closely with University Management to ensure that students’ affairs are attended to diligently. Robert Maseruka was sworn-in together with some cabinet members namely Mariat Namiiro (Vice Guild President), Dreamer Elizabeth (Deputy Prime Minister), Kiranda Sharifah (Finance minister), Nyangoma Emmaheart (Minister of Gender), Adron Rodney (Minister of Estates and Production) and Nambazira Patience (Academic Affairs Minister).

The Vice Chancellor congratulated H.E. Robert Maseruka upon being elected the 89^th Guild President. Maseruka is a third year student pursuing the Bachelor of Journalism and Communication under the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS). Prof. Nawangwe expressed the readiness of the University Management to work with the Guild President and the 89^th Students’ Guild to transform livelihoods and society in general. He commended the Chairperson of the Students’ Electoral Commission, Mr. Levi Tshilumba and his team for holding free, fair and peaceful elections. He acknowledged the out-going Guild President, H.E. Lawrence Alionzi for not only steering the 88^th Students’ Guild Government, but also handing over power peacefully.

Left to Right: University Secretary-Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, Ag. DVCAA-Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, Dean of Students-Mrs. Winifred Kabumbuli and St. Francis Chaplian-Rev. Dr. Lydia Nsaale Kitayimbwa chat at ceremony.

Emphasizing that the university cannot exist without students, the Vice Chancellor highlighted that the University Management would continue to prioritise issues that holistically impact students such as teaching and learning, research and innovations, renovation of Halls of residence, infrastructure development as well as students’ welfare.

He stated that Makerere is a publicly funded University and commended the Government of Uganda for the ongoing construction of the perimeter wall fence to enhance security at the Main Campus, the reconstruction of the Main Building that is expected to be completed by the end of the year, and for committing funds to kick start the renovation of Lumumba and Mary Stuart Halls of Residence.

Part of the audience that included Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi, Member of Parliament for Nakawa West (Front Row: Red necktie) follow proceedings.

Commenting on the delay in the release of Living-Out Allowances for government sponsored students, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) said: “The University is adjusting to the normal calendar following disruptions brought about by Covid-19. This financial year, we are going to have three semesters. We have discussed this matter with the Government and we have been assured that the students’ allowances for the third semester are going to be paid.”

On the issue of governance, Prof. Alinaitwe pointed out that the Guild President and Vice Guild President are members of Makerere University Council, the supreme governing body of the University. With this representation, they will be in position to present the interests of the students. Additionally, the Students’ Guild is represented on several university organs and committees including the University Senate and the Students’ Affairs Committee, among others.

H.E. Robert Maseruka takes oath as the Chairperson of the Students’ Electoral Commission for the 89th Guild, Mr. Levi Tshilumba (Right) and his supporters witness.

The Vice Chancellor advised the Guild President and the entire students’ body to avoid confrontations and violence. He appealed to the Students’ leadership to always uphold dialogue in the management of issues with different stakeholders. “Bring the issues on the table, we discuss them and reach a common position,” he said.

He encouraged the new Guild President, H.E. Robert Maseruka to emulate the out-going Guild President, H.E. Lawrence Alionzi who led the student body in a peaceful manner. “The 88^th Students’ Guild upheld peace and worked with the University Management and other organs of the university to execute students’ affairs. Thank you, the 88^th Students’ Guild for the commendable job. Thank you for Mr. Lawrence Alionzi for your contribution,” he remarked.

The Dean of Students, Mrs. Winifred Kabumbuli makes her remarks.

The Dean of Students, Mrs. Winifred Kabumbuli applauded the outgoing Guild under the leadership of H.E. Lawrence Alionzi for rejuvenating intellectual dialogue among students. She implored the new Guild to embrace dialogue and jointly work with the University administration to leverage Makerere University’s leading position in the provision of higher education services. The Dean of Students pledged to work with the 89^th Guild to ensure that students’ concerns are addressed on time.

In his remarks, the outgoing Guild President, Lawrence Alionzi urged the newly elected Guild President, Robert Maseruka to always front the interests of students before those of the political groups and individuals close to him.

The 88th Guild President, H.E. Lawrence Alionzi delivers his address.

“Focus on students. Be careful not to serve the interests of those around you or the political class. At the end of the day what truly matters is that common student who probably has never seen you,” he advised.

One of the dignitaries who came to witness the swearing-in-ceremony, Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi, Member of Parliament of Nakawa West congratulated H.E. Robert Maseruka upon his victory and tasked him to work for the students. “The students are the ones who have entrusted you with the mandate. So, always prioritise the students.”

Part of the audience enjoys a light moment during the Swearing-In Ceremony.

Hon. Ssenyonyi encouraged the University administration to always engage the alumni to contribute to some of the development programmes at the University.

The colourful ceremony was graced by the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-Associate Professor Gorettie Nabanoga, University Secretary-Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, the Chaplain of St. Francis Chapel-Rev. Dr. Lydia Nsaale Kitayimbwa, Mother of the Guild President-Ms. Nanfuka Joseline, Ms. Ruth Eteu Eyoku-Member of staff from the Department of the Academic Registrar, Principal Warden-Mr. Peter Rivan Muhereza, Guild Administrator-Ms. Norah Nalubowa, Wardens and staff from the Dean of Students’ Department, staff from Public Relations Office, the media and other invited guests. Mr. Muhammad Kiggundu, an alumnus of Makerere University, who graduated during the 73^rd Graduation ceremony moderated the Swearing-in-Ceremony.

Related Topics:89th Guild CHUSS Dean of Students elections featured leadership Management President students Swearing In

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Call for Applications: Admission to Postgraduate Programmes 2026/2027

Published

7 hours ago

February 4, 2026

Mak Editor

SoL Graduands celebrate after being conferred upon their awards. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites applications for admission to Graduate Programmes (Postgraduate Diplomas, Masters and Doctoral Degree Programmes) for the 2026/2027 Academic Year. Applicants should have obtained at least a first or second class degree (or its equivalent) from a Chartered University at the time of completion. Applicants should also possess a Uganda Certificate of Education (or its equivalent) and a Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (or its equivalent).

Sponsorship:

All Graduate Programmes are PRIVATELY-SPONSORED. Therefore, applicants seeking sponsorship should have their applications endorsed by their respective sponsors where applicable. Applicants should note that the various fees payable to the University indicated for the various programmes EXCLUDE functional fees, accommodation, books, research and other expenses.

Makerere-Advert-for-Graduate-Programmes-2026-2027 Download

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Simon Mungudit: Mak’s Best Performing Male Science Student & Rising Star in Petroleum Geoscience

Published

1 day ago

February 3, 2026

Hasifa Kabejja

Simon Mungudit emerged the best performing male science student this year. He is set to graduate from Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 24th February 2026 in the Freedom Square.

At just 24 years old, Simon Mungudit from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) has etched his name in the academic history of Makerere University, having emerged as the overall best male student in the Sciences, an achievement earned through perseverance, discipline, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence.

Mungudit is set to graduate during 76th graduation ceremony scheduled for 24^th to 27th February 2026, having attained a CGPA of 4.76 in the Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production. His academic interests-Reservoir Engineering, Petrophysics, and Drilling-reflect a deep understanding of the subsurface sciences that power modern energy systems.

Early Life and Journey to Academic Excellence

Born to Mr. Owor Thomas, a Game Ranger with the Uganda Wildlife Authority at Murchison Falls National Park, and Ms. Lilly Obewun Grace of Akuru Bridge Village, Nyaravur Sub-County in Nebbi District, Mungudit’s journey to academic excellence began far from the lecture halls of Makerere. At Karuma Primary School, Mungudit scored 12 aggregates in the Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE), setting the pace for his future success. He proceeded to St. Daniel Comboni College, Nebbi, where he attained 14 aggregates in 8 subjects at O’ Level. He then joined Namilyango College, one of the best secondary schools in Uganda, where he studied Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) and scored 19 points, results that secured him government sponsorship to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production at Makerere University.

Gratitude to his mentors and sponsors

Behind these milestones lies a story of humility, gratitude and opportunity. Mungudit credits his parents for supporting his primary and O’ Level education and expresses gratitude to TotalEnergies, which provided a full bursary for his A’ Level studies, covering tuition, upkeep, and medical care. He also acknowledges the Government of Uganda for sponsoring his university education, a factor he says motivated him to excel.

At Makerere, Mungudit thrived in an environment that blended rigorous academics with mentorship. He pays tribute to his lecturers, particularly Dr. Arthur Batte, Head, Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, for their unwavering commitment to nurturing students and pushing them to excel.

“I always aimed to excel,” Mungudit says. “Together with a few colleagues, we formed a group and held discussions on a daily. This, coupled with a conducive study environment, prayer, and discipline, enabled us to attain excellent grades.”

Dr Arthur Batte describes Mungidit as a humble yet very intelligent student.

Achievements and Professional Experience

Beyond academics, Mungudit consistently demonstrated expertise in petroleum engineering. In 2024, he led a team that won the Reservoir Modelling Challenge, organized by the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) Makerere University Chapter, earning prize money and a sponsored field trip to the Tilenga Project courtesy of COSL. He was First Runner-Up in the Petro Bowl competitions of 2023 and 2025, a highly competitive petroleum knowledge quiz organized by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Uganda Section. He served as a Student Officer for the SPE Makerere University Chapter in 2023, and in 2024, he chaired the Organizing Committee of the SPE Annual Students’ Technical Conference and Exhibition, helping bridge the gap between academia and industry.

His learning extended beyond the classroom. During his internship, he worked with TotalEnergies, where he applied petrophysics skills to analyze gas-while-drilling data for formation evaluation, hands-on exposure that sharpened his professional competence. At Makerere University, he mastered PetroMod 2018, a critical software tool in oil and gas exploration. After completing his studies in June 2025, Mungudit trained with the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), participating in the 2D seismic acquisition in the Kasurubani Block in Buliisa and Hoima districts.

Mungudit currently works as the Special Projects Coordinator for the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Uganda Section Student Liaison Committee.

Future Plans

Mungudit hopes to work in the oil and gas industry in the upstream sector as a geoscientist. He also plans to pursue further studies in petroleum engineering.

From a village in Nebbi to the forefront of petroleum geoscience, Mungudit’s story is one of an opportunity seized and potential realized. It is a testament to what is possible when talent meets support, and when determination is guided by faith, mentorship, and service. As Uganda’s oil and gas sector continues to evolve, Mungudit stands as a symbol of the skilled, principled professionals poised to shape its future.

The CoNAS fraternity congratulates Mungudit on this noble achievement.

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General

Press Statement: Makerere 76th Graduation Ceremony

Published

7 days ago

January 28, 2026

Mak Editor

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) presents one of the printed batches of transcripts the Registrar College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS)-Ms. Ruth Iteu Eyoku (2nd Right) as Right to Left: DVCAA-Prof. Sarah Ssali, AR-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Ms. Prossy Nakayiki witness on 28th January 2026. Vice Chancellor's Press Briefing on the 76th Graduation due to be held 24th-27th February 2026 at Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University’s 76^th graduation ceremony will be held from February 24^th – 27^th, 2026, at the Makerere University Freedom Square, starting at 8.30am. During the 76^th graduation ceremony, we shall confer degrees and award certificates to 185 PhDs, 2034 Masters, 6,043 bachelors, 137 postgraduate diplomas and 33 diplomas.

I am proud to announce that in comparison to the 75^th graduation, we have registered a 30% growth in graduate student output. This is a result of our strategic decision to prioritize graduate education per our research-led agenda.

I also wish to announce that the transcripts have been finalized and are ready for pick up. Today, I am handing over the ready transcripts to the College principals and can be picked up from respective Colleges even before the graduation ceremony.

Important to Note:

In preparation for the graduation ceremony, the University wishes to note the following:

Pre-graduation clearances
Graduands are reminded to clear all necessary payments such as tuition and all graduation
fees. It is also important to check with your College to ensure your name is on the graduation
list and all mandatory clearances with university officials have been finalized. Note and
internalize the graduation schedule (attached) to know which day you are graduating.
Securing the graduation gowns
Graduation gowns will be issued starting from 2^nd February 2026 from the University Hall (Dinning Hall), Monday to Friday, from 9am to 4pm. To collect your gown, check and ensure your name appears on the Senate Graduation list, present your student number or National ID, and proof of payment for the gown.
Security requirements
- Attendance: For each day of graduation, entrance to the graduation ground will be by invitation only. Graduands will be issued with invitation cards which permits two guests per graduand. Do not come with more than two people or they will not be allowed access to the graduation venue. Graduands are encouraged to arrive to settle at the Freedom Square by 7am on graduation day to for a seamless flow of planned activities including the necessary security checks.
- Prohibited items: Prohibited items include firearms, sharp instruments like mirrors and knives, alcohol, cell or batteries and chemicals, canned food and drinks, laptops, flashes and hard disks, radios including pocket radios, bottled drinks, cameras, large bags or any other heavy items.
- Media: All media and journalists who wish to cover the ceremony must be pre-accredited by the Makerere University Public Relations office or they will not be allowed to access the ceremony venue. The access point for accredited media personnel will be the Senate Building.
- Parking: There will be two designated parking areas; Rugby Grounds for those coming through the Eastern and Main Gate; and the second one is the Makerere University Main Grounds at Makerere College School. For VVIPs, VIPs and procession parking will be at CTF1, Directorate of Legal parking, St Francis and St Augustine parking, JICA and Senate Building.
- Access Control: To ease traffic flow and management, the University has planned three access points to the graduation venue: the School of Social Sciences, Senate Building and the University Swimming Pool.
For help and inquiries
- Starting February 2, 2026, the Academic Registrar ’s Office and Graduation Committee will set up an information tent outside the Senate Building to provide guidance and handle all inquiries pertaining to graduation.