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.
Computing & IS
Makerere University and SoonPay Sign Landmark MoU to Champion Blockchain Innovation and Financial Inclusion Across Africa
On Saturday 6th December 2025, Makerere University entered into a ground-breaking partnership with the U.S.-based fintech company SoonPay, marking a major breakthrough in Uganda’s push to integrate emerging technologies into research, innovations, higher education and national development.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Mr. Frantz Morency, Chief Executive Officer of SoonPay L.L.C, during the Makerere University Financial Innovation Day, a high-energy event that brought together over 800 students, faculty, industry partners, and technology leaders.
The MoU institutionalizes the collaboration of Makerere University through the Makerere University Technology and Innovation Centre and SoonPay LLC. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Dr. Cathy Ikiror Mbidde-Manager of Makerere University Technology and Innovation Centre and Ms. Vuyani Jones-Blockchain Infrastructure Manager.
Organized by the Makerere University Technology and Innovation Centre (MUTIC) in partnership with SoonPay, the event ran under the theme “Innovation and Financial Inclusion for a Secure Future.” It featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, live demonstrations, and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will usher in a new era of blockchain training, research, and innovation at Uganda’s premier university.
The event was supported by several partners, including the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), the Uganda Blockchain Association, the National Planning Authority (NPA), Prudential Uganda, and other technology and financial sector stakeholders.
A Strategic Partnership to Transform Africa’s Digital Landscape
The newly signed MoU between Makerere University and SoonPay is expected to unlock a broad set of opportunities for students and academic staff. These include blockchain education and certification, joint research projects, internships and apprenticeships, the development of new financial inclusion tools, and the integration of emerging technologies into existing academic programs.
SoonPay’s entry into Uganda is part of a larger vision to expand blockchain-driven solutions across Africa—a continent its executives say has historically been excluded from global technological revolutions.
Impressed by the overwhelming numbers of students who filled the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium to the brim, the Vice Chancellor, said: “Dear students, by choosing to stay on campus, on a Saturday, and after completing your examinations, you have demonstrated your willingness to learn and embrace the blockchain technology as well as emerging technologies in general.”
Stating that blockchain technology is the future for Africa, the Vice Chancellor challenged the students to take charge of Africa’s digital transformation.
“You are the people to emancipate Africa from marginalization,” he declared. “What will liberate our continent is not politics—we have done too much of that. It is education, research, innovation, and technology.”
Prof. Nawangwe delivered a sweeping historical reflection, tracing Africa’s technological setbacks to the destruction of its civilization over several centuries.
“For 400 years, Africans were taken away as slaves. For another 200 years before that, our lands, knowledge systems, and technologies were disrupted,” he said. “This represents around 600 years of destruction and marginalization of African civilization.”
He urged students not to miss the opportunity that modern technologies such as blockchain and artificial intelligence present.
“We are lucky to be living in an era where Africa is free,” the Vice Chancellor said. “My hope is that we do not wait another 600 years to take advantage of this freedom. The most important resource we have is not minerals; it is human resources—you, the youth.”
Prof. Nawangwe reminded students that Makerere’s reputation as the “intellectual capital of Africa” places immense responsibility on their shoulders.
“You are among the very few Ugandans privileged to study at Makerere University. University graduates are not supposed to wait for jobs—you are the ones expected to create them,” he said.
Why Blockchain? Transparency, efficiency, and global competitiveness
The Vice Chancellor highlighted the transformative potential of blockchain technology, especially in improving financial systems—a sector he described as the backbone of any modern economy.
“Without efficient financial systems, nothing else works,” he said. “Blockchain offers transparency, reduces fraud, and minimizes corruption. If applied properly, it could transform how we manage finances, education, and even our natural resources, including the oil that Uganda is about to exploit.”
He added that Makerere’s students are already demonstrating global competitiveness in innovation, winning international competitions and creating products across multiple disciplines.
“The brains are here,” he said. “What we need is exposure to opportunities and technologies that will help you turn your ideas into impactful solutions.”
In a passionate keynote address, SoonPay CEO, Mr. Frantz Morency underscored why his company chose Uganda as its launchpad for blockchain adoption in Africa.
“As the Professor said, we have been excluded for more than 400 years,” he stated. “Even though we’re an American company, we know our roots. Look around the SoonPay team—you will see yourselves. We chose Uganda intentionally.”
Mr. Morency pointed to Africa’s dismal participation in the global blockchain economy. “In the U.S., blockchain generates $2.6 billion—61.7 percent of the world’s share. The rest of the world generates $1.6 billion. And Africa, just $14 million, or 0.33 percent,” he said. “That is unacceptable.”
He attributed the gap not to a lack of interest among young Africans, but to a lack of opportunity. “You want to learn—what you lacked was opportunity,” he said. “With the support of Professor Nawangwe, Dr. Cathy Ikiror Mbidde, and Dr. Margaret Nagwovuma, SoonPay wants to bridge that gap in education, technology, and economic opportunity.”
Mr. Morency also shared his personal journey, connecting his Haitian background to the aspirations of African youth.
“Many of you may see me as ‘the guy in the green suit,’ but I come from a small island—Haiti,” he said. “My mother never finished first grade; my father never finished second grade. What they gave me was integrity, work ethic, and the determination to seize opportunities when they came.”
He urged students not to seek opportunities abroad out of desperation, but to build meaningful careers in Africa. “Africa does not need to lose its talent. Why can’t you build here? Why can’t businesses, innovation, and prosperity thrive here?” he said. “Educate yourselves. Build. Create. Grow.”
A milestone for Makerere and Africa
Dr. Cathy Ikiror Mbidde, Head of the Makerere University Technology and Innovation Centre (MUTIC), described the event as a “major milestone” in the institution’s evolution.
“We are here to witness one of the key emerging technologies and to reflect on how universities can embrace such milestones,” she said. “Everyone has a role to play in transforming our lives through research, ideas, and projects.”
She thanked SoonPay for choosing Makerere University, noting that students had been “instrumental” in pushing for blockchain education.
“You have been constantly asking questions, pushing us, and showing deep curiosity about blockchain. Today, we finally have answers,” she told the students.
Beyond the speeches, the event showcased SoonPay’s blockchain infrastructure, student-led innovations, and a roadmap for integrating digital finance tools into university programs. Partners such as NSSF emphasized the importance of preparing young people for a digital future.
With the MoU now in force, Makerere University is positioning itself as a regional hub for blockchain education, research, and innovation. The partnership with SoonPay aims not only to train students but to shape Uganda’s—and Africa’s—next generation of tech leaders.
Kampala, Uganda
21st November 2025
Makerere University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) has graduated 71 students under Phase 2 of the e-VBAB Project, a collaboration between Amity University in India and Makerere University. The ceremony, held at Block B CoCIS, was presided over by Principal Prof. Tonny Oyana on behalf of the Vice Chancellor.
The program, funded by the Government of India, offered 100 percent scholarships to Ugandan students through the Pan-African e-Network Project, which provides tele-education and tele-medicine services across 48 African countries. Uganda signed onto the initiative in 2019, and more than 1,700 Ugandan students have benefited since its inception.
In his remarks, Prof. Oyana praised the efforts of program coordinators and support staff, singling out Madam Claire for her dedication. “Coordinating things remotely from other countries is not easy, but you have been humble enough to ensure that these graduates have seen the light,” he said. He also thanked custodians and security personnel who facilitated exams and weekend access for students.
Prof. Oyana emphasized the importance of completing studies, noting that many students remain pending. “Please encourage your friends because there’s no reason not to finish. You honor us, honor the government of India, the taxpayers, by completing,” he urged. He reminded graduates that their degrees are recognized by Uganda’s National Council for Higher Education and warned against fraudulent claims. “Only hard-earned degrees are recognized. There’s no easy way out,” he cautioned.
Reflecting on the program’s history, Oyana described the graduates as “COVID children” who persevered through the pandemic. He also offered career advice, stressing humility, confidence, and attitude. “Having a good attitude does not cost money. It is free. And it’s good for your heart. Happiness is not sold anywhere,” he said. He encouraged graduates to create opportunities through entrepreneurship and to value professional networks.
The graduation marked the conclusion of the e-VBAB collaboration, with Prof. Oyana reminding students of their unique place in history as the first and only cohort under the Makerere–Amity partnership. “You are the first cohort. Everybody looks upon you wondering, will you make it? History will write down that we are the only cohort,” he said.
Prof. Oyana Urges Graduates to Pursue Gifts, Confidence and Positive Attitudes
Prof. Tonny Oyana urged graduates to embrace humility, confidence, and entrepreneurship as they prepare for life beyond academia, warning that degrees alone are not a guarantee of success.
Oyana reflected on his career in academia. “But I’m still here, surviving and kicking. I have been with academia technically from 1993. I have not changed career. I grew my career through academia,” he said, noting that while psychology suggests people change careers five times, he has remained committed to one path.
He cautioned against unrealistic ambitions, particularly in politics, referencing Uganda’s crowded presidential race. “Not everybody can be president. So exercise your dreams with some caution. Don’t waste your time in an initiative that you know will not break through,” he advised, urging graduates to instead pursue areas aligned with their spiritual gifts and natural talents.
Turning to the job market, Prof. Oyana highlighted the challenges of employment. “In order to get a faculty job, you had to put in 40 applications. Now, I think it has doubled. These days, there’s no courtesy. They don’t even reply to your application,” he said. He encouraged graduates to create their own opportunities through entrepreneurship, stressing that education provides knowledge, skills, and values.
He underscored the importance of attitude, describing it as a free but powerful tool. “Having a good attitude does not cost money. It is free. And it’s good for your heart. Happiness is not sold anywhere. So, you make your attitude positive, things will be positive,” he said. He warned that arrogance and poor manners can sabotage success, urging students to practice humility both in professional and personal life.
Prof. Oyana also emphasized confidence and self-presentation. “You are your own moving advert. Don’t sabotage your own confidence. Be very clear about what you bring to the table,” he said, advising graduates to rehearse their self-introductions and prepare thoroughly for interviews.
Finally, he highlighted the value of professional networks, recalling how his PhD cohort became a lifelong support system. “It became my network for success. Please keep your network. Even if you haven’t gotten much in your life, face it,” he said.
The Principal’s remarks blended personal anecdotes with practical advice, reinforcing the message that success requires humility, preparation, resilience and strong networks beyond academic achievement.
CiPSD Director Nalubega Praises Teamwork, Urges Graduates to Believe in Themselves
The Director of the Center for Innovations and Professional Skills Development (CiPSD), Ms. Barbara Nalubega, praised graduates and staff for their teamwork and resilience .
Addressing the graduates, Nalubega said the success of the program was achieved despite challenges. “I’m very humbled that amidst all the same challenges, we have built rapport, worked as a team, and here we are. This is the day that the Lord has made,” she remarked.
She thanked graduates for their encouragement and support, noting that she had received hundreds of messages of gratitude during the course of the program. She singled out several students, including Damali, Fatuma, Josh, Sam, Paula, Sheila, and Michael, for their commitment, and extended special appreciation to Dan, who, though not part of the graduation, sent her flowers in recognition of her efforts.
Nalubega also acknowledged her colleagues and partners who played key roles in the ceremony’s success. She commended Claire, the e-learning coordinator, Annette, who managed gowns for graduates, and Brenda, the supplier, for their dedication. She revealed that she personally staked two million shillings in the Bank to ensure latecomers were accommodated. “This wouldn’t have been possible without you making payments in the bank on time,” she said.
Nalubega emphasized humility and accountability, apologizing to those who may have been hurt along the way. “Apologizing to you is not an uphill task for me. When I make a mistake, I usually apologize,” she stated.
She concluded by encouraging graduates to believe in themselves and the transformative power of education. “Through education, the son of a farm or mine worker can become the president of a great nation. Yes, believe in yourself,” she said, citing Nelson Mandela’s rise from humble beginnings to the presidency of South Africa as an example.
The Director’s message underscored the importance of teamwork, resilience, humility, and self-belief as graduates embark on their next chapter.
Graduates Laud Resilience, Faith and Global Support
Graduates under the e-VBAB Project and Amity University–Makerere collaboration celebrated perseverance, faith, and international partnerships as they addressed the audience during the) graduation ceremony.
Representing the e-VBAB project graduates, Isoke Gloria, a former student of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), expressed gratitude for the milestone. “It’s not been easy, but we thank God so much for bringing us to this day. May His name be glorified,” she said. Gloria praised the scholarships provided under the project, noting, “We would never have made it here without their support. They’ve made our academic journey so easy and a success.” She also commended Makerere University and coordinator Barbara Nalubega for their encouragement and commitment.
Duncan Nagenda, an Amity University master’s student, highlighted the challenges of online learning, describing it as demanding and often unpredictable. “Online education is not a joke. If you ask me, it should be added on the list of a thousand ways to die,” he said, recalling internet disruptions and strict exam protocols. He acknowledged the support of lecturers in India, parents, and Makerere staff, particularly e-learning coordinator Claire. “To my class of 2025, may your future be filled with purpose, may your opportunities be abundant, and may your journey ahead be guided by excellence and wisdom,” he concluded.
Joshua Mugabo, also from Amity University, emphasized faith and resilience. “Who would not have been here without God? It is His grace that carried us, His strength that sustained us, and His favor that opened doors we once feared were closed,” he said. Mugabo reflected on hardships such as blackouts, poor internet, and family responsibilities, but celebrated the resilience gained. “A degree might put something in our hand, but education puts something in your heart. And today’s world urgently needs what is in our hearts,” he added. He paid tribute to the Government of India, Makerere University, and mentors in Uganda and India, invoking Nelson Mandela’s words: “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.”
The graduates’ remarks underscored the significance of international collaboration, personal perseverance, and the transformative power of education, marking the ceremony not only as a celebration of academic achievement but also of resilience and shared vision for the future.
Find the details about this project and graduates in the booklet attached.
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