Computing & IS
Over 300 Graduate under Mak-Amity University & e-VBAB Online Education Program
Over 300 candidates who pursued online education under the Makerere and Indian universities agreement have been Awarded Diplomas and Degrees at a colourful ceremony that was held at the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS).
The ceremony held on 14th April 2023 was presided over by the Principal CoCIS Prof. Tonny Oyana on behalf of management and attended by his Deputy Dr. Peter Nabende and Dr. Kyanda Swaib who represented the Dean School of Computing and Informatics Technology.
In 2018, the Government of Uganda and the Government of India signed an MoU geared towards the implementation of the e-Vidybharati and e-Aarogyabharati (e-VBAB) projects in Uganda. To promote the activities of this project, Makerere University was chosen to serve as a regional centre to advance Tele –education in the East African region.
The current running MoU between Amity University, and Makerere University College of Computing and Information Sciences was negotiated in the year 2018 and, is renewable after five years while the e-VBAB project MoU was signed in 2019 for five years, and is still running until the end of 2024.
The e-VBAB Network Project set up an e-Learning Centre at the College of Computing and Information Sciences(CoCIS) well equipped for use with a modern video conferencing laboratory with two programmes namely, Amity–Makerere University and the e-Vidybharati and e-Aarogyabharati (e-VBAB) Makerere project.
The primary goal of this partnership was to espouse online teaching and learning as well as offer degree and postgraduate degree programmes at affordable tuition fees rates devoid of functional fees.
Under both the e-VBAB project and the MoU between Amity and Makerere University several students were enrolled on various courses offered by premier Indian universities offering a number of programs including tourism management, French, Business Management, physical science engineering, IT, Financial literacy, Human Resource, Business analytics.
A total of 2,100 students have been enrolled under both the Amity-Makerere MoU and the e-VBAB programmes. Of these, 1,346 students were enrolled on 100% scholarship under the e-VBAB project from 2020 to date, spread across 28 Indian universities. Under the Makerere -Amity University MoU, a total of 754 students have been admitted under partial scholarships of up to 70% since 2018 across ten intakes.
Under these MoUs, the college churned out 339 graduates of these, 185 are under the Makerere–Amity University agreement and 154 under the e-VBAB project.
The virtual graduation ceremony for the cohort of students who enrolled on programs offered by the mentioned universities was held for different groups since 2019 in India. A total of 381 students from Uganda were awarded Master, PGD and Ordinary Diploma qualifications.
Speaking during the award ceremony Prof. Tonny Oyana thanked the parents and spouses of the candidates for being supportive. He recognised the Indian government and taxpayers for offering scholarships and subsidised education.
Prof. Oyana credited members of the faculty, the head CIPSID and the e-Learning coordinator for a job well done.
He told the congregation that the college organised the Degree Award ceremony to celebrate this milestone and academic brilliance.
“Education is not an easy journey. I thank you all for your endurance. Many times when you are beginning it is exciting. When a lecturer announces a test, your heart starts to beat and some people drop off during the process, but you are strong-hearted, the strong-willed and you have endured thank you for staying in the course and that is why we are celebrating here”. He added
The Principal further advised graduands to be kind and loving as they move out of the gates of Makerere and always to remain humble as they advance in their careers.
Prof. Oyana implored parents to motivate their children adding that the celebration starts at nursery school.
Speaking on behalf of the Academic Registrar Makerere University, Prof. Oyana thanked all, for sparing their valuable time to witness the graduation.
The Deputy Principal CoCIS, Dr Peter Nabende congratulated the graduands upon this achievement noting that the degrees attained are just a beginning and that, there was more learning to do.
“Your degrees have come through online learning. It means that already there is a skill you have acquired and take further”
Nabende appreciated the Indian government and all stakeholders for supporting the candidates in their academic journey.
The tele-education coordinator Ronald Mwanje described the day as special not only for the graduates but also for the institutions and the world as a whole.
“We are here to celebrate the achievements of the students who have worked hard over the years to complete their studies successfully. I want to congratulate each and every one of you for your dedication and commitment to your studies, which have brought you to this milestone. Your hard work, perseverance, and determination have paid off, and you can now stand tall, proud of all that you have accomplished”. Mwanje said
Mwanje also recognized the efforts of the faculty members who have worked tirelessly to support and guide the students throughout their academic journey, noting that their expertise, guidance, and mentorship have been invaluable in shaping the students’ careers and ensuring that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen fields.
He said the partnership between Amity University and the EVBAB project has been instrumental in providing quality education to the students in Uganda. Since its inception in 2018, the project has aimed to create a sustainable model for higher education delivery in East Africa. The project has collaborated with Makerere University’s CoCIS to provide high-quality education, leveraging technology and modern teaching methods.
Through the EVBAB project, Amity University has been able to share its expertise in online and distance education with students in Uganda, providing them with an opportunity to access quality education that may have been otherwise impossible. This project has also enabled the students to develop global perspectives and enhanced their employability, contributing to the growth of the local and regional economies.
“The partnership between Amity University and Makerere University’s CoCIS has been fruitful, resulting in the successful completion of various programs, including Bachelor’s, Diplomas, Master, and PG Diploma. The students who have completed these programs are well-equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to their fields and society as a whole”, he stressed
Online education according to the coordinator has revolutionized the method of teaching and learning by making education more accessible, flexible, and cost-effective and also opened up opportunities for students to learn from top universities around the world, regardless of their location, and provided a platform for students to engage with diverse perspectives and
As the e-learning coordinator for this project, Mwanje said he has witnessed first-hand the students’ dedication and hard work in completing their studies, seen them overcome various challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted education worldwide exhibiting resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to their studies, which have enabled them to complete their programs successfully.
“The graduates of today are a testament to the success of the e-VBAB project, the partnership between Amity University and Makerere University’s CoCIS, and the commitment of the students and faculty members. You have worked hard to reach this milestone, and I am confident that you will go on to achieve great things in your careers and personal lives”
“As you graduate today, I want to remind you that your education does not stop here. It is only the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning and personal growth. You have gained knowledge and skills that will serve you well in your chosen fields, but there is still much to learn and achieve. I urge you to continue to seek knowledge, explore new ideas, and be open to opportunities that come your way”. He advised
Graduands advised being Compassionate, Courageous and Creative
Representing the graduating students, Mayonza Bob reminded students that education is the most powerful weapon that can transform their lives, the communities and the world at large adding that once with great power comes with responsibilities, and they must use their education not only for their benefit but for the benefit of society.
“As we embark on our journey into the world, I urge you to remember these three Cs that is, Compassion, Courage and Creativity. Compassion is the foundation of a just and equitable society. The ability to understand and share the feelings of others and to act with kindness and empathy. In a world that is increasingly divided by politics, religion and ideology, we need more compassion than ever before”, Mayonza advised.
Mayonza described courage as the fuel that drives progress, the willingness to take risks, to speak truth to power and to stand up for what is right even when it is unpopular or difficult. As they navigate the challenges and obstacles that lie ahead, Mayonza implored fellow graduands to remember that courage is not the absence of fear, but, the triumph of it, so they must be brave and courageous.
Creativity according to Mayonza is the engine of motivation, the ability to think outside the box and see things in a new light and imagine a better future. As they embark on their careers, Mayonza advised that whether in business, science, art or any other field, they should remember that creativity is not a gift installed upon the few, but a skill that can be learned and cultivated, so they should be cautious.
“It means creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected, where the voiceless are heard and where their contributions are recognised. It means investing in education and training programmes that help individual owners and organisations to stand tall against all odds and representing communities to develop skills of their unprivileged and networks that help nations and communities.”
Mayonza also advised graduands to embrace diversity in all forms and to be agents of change in their communities and workplaces whether they have or are pursuing a career in business, management a degree, or a postgraduate.
Carol Kasujja Adii and Ritah Namisango
The excitement was palpable as hundreds of graduands and parents flocked Makerere University Freedom Square for the first session of the colourful graduation ceremony on Monday 13th January 2025.
The Chancellor, Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga will confer degrees and present diplomas to a total of 13,658 graduands during the 75th graduation ceremony of Makerere University that runs until Friday 17th January 2025.
On each day, after the Chancellor has dissolved the congregation, the best researchers, best teachers and excelling students in the company of their parents or guardians proceed to Makerere University Convocation gardens for a luncheon.
The Makerere University Convocation Graduation luncheon brings on board invited staff and alumni as well as keynote speakers from the government, private and business sector to witness the presentation of the Vice Chancellor’s Research Excellence Awards to the best University researchers and students.
Some of the dignitaries present for the first luncheon included: The Chancellor-Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, the Chairperson of Council-Mrs. Lorna Magara, the commencement Speaker-Vice of the University of South Africa, Prof. LenkaBula Puleng, Secretary of the Education Service Commission-Dr. Asuman Lukwago, among others.
Welcoming the dignitaries, the Chairperson of the Convocation, Mr. George Turyamureeba congratulated the best students accompanied by their parents upon this academic milestone, and encouraged them to join the Convocation (the Alumni and Staff association) in order to tap into mentorship opportunities as well as professional networks.
The day one of the 75th Graduation Ceremony featured graduates from the College of Education and External Studies, College of Computing and Information Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, and the School of Law. The best 30 students per College are invited to the University Convocation with their parents to celebrate their academic success, and to listen to inspirational speeches from personalities who are acknowledged for utilizing their knowledge, skills, professions or talent to cause a positive difference in the lives of other people.
In his earlier address to the congregation in the Freedom Square, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, stated that the meritorious award presented to researchers was in recognition of their prolific publication record and outstanding contribution to Makerere University’s scholarly excellence.
This being his maiden graduation ceremony as Chancellor of Makerere University, the Vice Chancellor congratulated Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, an alumnus of Makerere University upon his appointment and installation by H.E President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
Prof. Nawangwe reiterated the readiness of the University Council and Management to implement the good ideas and strategies aimed at scaling Makerere University to greater heights.
Making reference to the commencement speech delivered by Prof. LenkBula Puleng, Prof. Nawangwe emphasized the need for graduates to always remember the speaker’s focus on what should be done to emancipate Africa from poverty.
Prof. Nawangwe thus called upon all the researchers who were recognized to use the awards as an inspiration to carry out more research that addresses the needs of the African continent.
During the event, the Chancellor, Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, noted that Africa is still trapped in poverty and lags behind because the continent is not integrated.
According to Dr. Kiyonga, although Africa lags behind, African Universities have to collaborate to address continent-wide challenges, enhance research capacity, foster knowledge sharing, and ultimately contribute more effectively to the development of Africa by tackling issues such as poverty.
Chancellor Kiyonga rallied universities in Africa to intensify collaborations in order to spur research and development.
“Makerere University researchers need to know what is happening in the University of South Africa, check out how they teach and exchange staff and students. If we get together as Universities, we will move fast,” Hon. Dr. Kiyonga noted.
The Chancellor equally called upon the graduates to be innovative and find solutions to address societal challenges. He reminded the graduates that people would judge them by asking what they did during their time.
“Our children are going abroad for work; this is a curse. If most of them leave, who will develop the Nation? Let us come together because the future of Africa is embedded in integration,” Hon. Dr. Kiyonga said.
To ensure that the message on integration of Africa remains on the agenda, Hon. Dr. Kiyonga informed the University leadership, staff, alumni and invited guests, that when provided with platforms to speak, he will always advocate for the integration of Africa.
“As the Makerere University Convocation brings us together, we must uphold the slogan, ‘We build for the future’ not just for Makerere’s future, or Uganda’s future, but for Africa’s future,” Dr. Kiyonga said.
Inspired by the good initiatives of the Makerere University Convocation headed by Mr. George Turyamureeba, Hon. Dr. Kiyonga-a 1978 graduate of the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery of Makerere University pledged to pay all his convocation dues.
Presenting the keynote speech, Dr. Asuman Lukwago-Secretary of the Education Service Commission congratulated all the graduates on their academic achievements. Dr. Lukwago called upon all fresh graduates to live responsibly so as to achieve their full potential.
Sharing his personal experience on taking on unpaid employment after completing his studies at the Medical school, Dr. Lukwago urged the graduates who have accumulated knowledge, not to remain idle as they wait for employment.
“Many of you are focusing on looking for payment and it is true you need to be paid, but suppose you get a non-paid employment? My first assignment was on a volunteer basis, but my Professor encouraged me to take it on. He said: ‘Among the people whom you will be teaching will be sons and daughters of Ministers. If you teach them well, they will recommend you’ and that is how my name went into boardrooms,” Dr Lukwago narrated.
He encouraged the graduates to focus on their future noting that life feels long and hard when someone is suffering but is short and enjoyable when one achieves his or her target.
“You have been good students at the University level, but you have to be good citizens who can contribute to the growth of our Country’s economy. Analyze and unpack the four-acre model, a modern type of farming,” Dr Lukwago guided.
The Four-Acre Model advocates for diversified farming, where farmers allocate one acre to coffee, another to fruits, the third to pasture for dairy, and the fourth to food crops.
Why the convocation is important:
The Chairperson of Makerere University Convocation, Mr. George Turyamureeba explained that the association brings on board alumni and staff of Makerere University.
The mission of the convocation is to mobilise members and well-wishers to support the welfare and progress of Makerere University and to participate in the enhancement and improvement of intellectual and material wellbeing of the university community.
Mr. Turyamureeba pointed out that for one to qualify as a Member of Makerere University convocation, he or she pays an annual subscription of UGX 50,000/=. A member of the Makerere University Convocation benefits in form of: Career Development and Job opportunities, Alumni networking and social capital, Career guidance and mentorship programs, Financial support and scholarships.
Makerere University has been directed to integrate the teaching of political economy across all courses to enhance students’ understanding of the country’s socioeconomic conditions. The directive, welcomed by the university’s top management, will be incorporated into the curriculum to align education with the needs of the people and the nation.
The government has also pledged to bolster Makerere’s research funding and strengthen partnerships with the private sector to commercialize innovations developed at the institution.
The call was made by Makerere University’s new Chancellor, Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, during the first session of the 75th graduation ceremony held on January 13, 2025, at the university’s Freedom Square. Dr. Kiyonga also urged the government and the university to establish an agro-industrial park on its land.
“This park would serve three purposes: teaching, generating income, and acting as a demonstration site for communities across the country,” Dr. Kiyonga noted.
The Chancellor emphasized the urgency of addressing Uganda’s food insecurity, highlighting that 40% of children in the Rwenzori region are stunted, with malnutrition affecting all regions of the country.
“Uganda must develop a robust food security system to ensure we do not starve amidst abundance,” he said.
Dr. Kiyonga also pointed out Africa’s underperformance despite its vast resources, describing it as a contradiction. “It is our responsibility to change the conditions of our people and ensure Africa rises to its potential,” he urged.
The ceremony was graced by Hon. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, Minister of State for Primary Education, who represented the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni. Other dignitaries included members of Parliament, the judiciary, the diplomatic corps, and academics.
Education Minister Praises Makerere for Excellence
Hon. Joyce Moriku Kaducu lauded Makerere University for its dedication to academic excellence and innovation.
“Today reflects the resilience, hard work, and commitment of our graduates, supported by the university staff, management, and parents,” she said.
The Minister commended the Vice Chancellor and management for fostering research and innovation while urging them to maintain robust quality control systems to uphold the institution’s integrity.
She also reflected on Makerere’s recent milestones, including the commissioning of a new School of Law building and the launch of the School of Graduate Studies and Research.
“Your achievements stem from hard work, transparency, and accountability. They set Makerere apart as a leader in higher education,” she noted.
Addressing the graduates, Hon. Kaducu encouraged them to apply their skills to solve societal challenges.
“Makerere has equipped you with critical thinking and creativity. Use this to seize opportunities, make a difference, and shine wherever you go,” she concluded.
Vice Chancellor Highlights Makerere’s Impact
Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe congratulated the 13,658 graduates, including 143 PhD recipients and 53% female graduates. He commended the efforts of staff, parents, and sponsors in supporting the students’ journeys.
The College of Computing and Information Sciences presented a total of 681 Graduands. Of theses12 were Doctoral candidates (7 Females and 5 males), 73 Masters candidates( 26 Female and 47 Male) and 596 Bachelors (251 Females and 345 Males)
Prof. Nawangwe praised the achievements of Makerere’s colleges, including the College of the College of Computing and Information Sciences. The College celebrated notable achievements, including three students who received the Africa 2024 Marketplace Simulation Award during the AFRICA2024 Conference in Egypt.
The college also secured a $1.5 million grant from Google for the Ocular project, which leverages artificial intelligence to improve the diagnosis of malaria, tuberculosis, and cervical cancer. The AI Health Lab, led by Dr. Rose Nakasi, continues to produce innovative diagnostic tools, including a phone-to-microscope adaptor, supported by partners like Google and the National Institutes of Health. Additionally, the AirQo Project launched the CLEAN-Air Africa Network, focusing on air quality management using low-cost sensors.
Prof. Nawangwe reiterated Makerere’s transformation into a research-led institution supported by the government’s Research and Innovation Fund. “We are addressing national priorities, such as improving the Parish Development Model and advancing e-governance,” he stated.
The Vice Chancellor congratulated Dr. Chrispus Kiyonga on his appointment as Chancellor and urged graduates to leverage their education to create solutions for societal challenges.
“Let your Makerere education be a beacon of hope for the world,” he concluded.
Prof. LenkaBula’s Call for Resilience and Redefining African Women’s Mission
In a keynote address by Professor Puleng LenkaBula, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of South Africa (UNISA) titled “The Power of Resilience – African Woman, Find Your Generational Mission and Redefine Your Worth”, Prof. LenkaBula highlighted the critical role of African women in shaping the continent’s destiny.
Prof. LenkaBula expressed gratitude for being invited to such a significant occasion and extended greetings from South Africa, including from UNISA’s Chancellor, former South African President Dr. Thabo Mbeki. She praised Makerere University for its legacy of academic excellence and contributions to the African continent, emphasizing its role in anti-colonial struggles, post-colonial development, and its steadfast commitment to African unity.
“Makerere University stands as a beacon of academic excellence and innovation, a vital part of Africa’s intellectual and developmental heritage,” she remarked, reflecting on the institution’s shared history with UNISA and other centers of higher learning in Africa.
The Vice-Chancellor acknowledged the many prominent figures associated with Makerere, including freedom fighters and leading intellectuals. She also paid tribute to African women who have played pivotal roles throughout history, including Queen Amina of Zazzau, Njinga of Angola, Empress Tayetu Betul of Ethiopia, and modern figures such as Wangari Maathai and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
“These women embodied resilience and vision, redefining leadership in ways that transformed societies,” Prof. LenkaBula said. “It is now up to you, graduates, especially women, to take up the mantle, redefine your worth, and reclaim your generational mission.”
Drawing on the wisdom of influential thinkers like Frantz Fanon and Chinua Achebe, she urged graduates to embrace their responsibility as leaders and problem-solvers in Africa’s quest for prosperity. Prof. LenkaBula warned against complacency, emphasizing that each generation must confront its unique challenges and opportunities to secure a brighter future for the continent.
She also called for a renewed focus on gender equity in academia and leadership, noting the disproportionate burdens faced by women in society. Citing the achievements of Makerere University in gender mainstreaming, she expressed optimism about the role of young leaders in dismantling patriarchal systems and fostering inclusive development.
“As you step into the world, remain grounded in your communities while adopting a global outlook. Africa’s intellectual and social resilience has always been its greatest asset,” Prof. LenkaBula urged.
Prof. LenkaBula concluded her address to Graduands with a powerful call to action: “Your graduation is not merely a personal achievement but a contribution to Africa’s collective progress. History has thrust upon you the task of creating a future defined by resilience, innovation, and equality.”
Graduation Statistics of the 75th graduation ceremony
During the course of the 75th graduation ceremony, a total of 13,658 graduands will receive degrees and diplomas of Makerere University. Of these, a total of 143 graduands will graduate with PhDs, 1,813 with Masters degrees, 11,454 with Bachelor’s degrees and 243 with postgraduate diplomas. 53 % of the graduands are female and 47% are male. 44% of the PhD graduands are female. A total of 491 graduands will receive first class degrees. The best graduand from the sciences, graduating with a CGPA of 4.91 and a Bachelor of Science is Mr. Mubiru Enock Joel. The best graduand from the humanities, graduating with a Bachelor of Leisure and Hospitality Management, with a CGPA of 4.07 is Mr. Bagoole Abdul Latif Umar. 16% of the graduands are graduating with post-graduate degrees and diplomas.
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