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Makerere University celebrates Pan-Africanist Kwame Nkrumah

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When you visit Makerere University, it is hard to miss the various landmarks bearinghistorical names, names of great people and Pan-Africanists.  The students’ Halls of residence that derive their names from Pan Africanists of our time include Nkrumah and Lumumba Halls. The most outstanding of these is probably Nkrumah Hall, named after the West African Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah; who is remembered for leading Ghana to independence.  

“As we celebrate the enduring legacy of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, it is crucial to not only acknowledge the profound impact he had on the people of Ghana but also to understand how his vision continues to resonate with the youths of today,” affirms Dr. John Serbe Marfo, a lecturer at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. Nkrumah’s life and work embody the very values that Nkrumah Hall at Makerere University proudly upholds – the ideals of Pan-Africanism, unity, and progress.

Nkrumah embarked on his journey as a statesman and visionary with a fervent call for the liberation of African nations from the clutches colonial rule. His unyielding commitment to the Pan-African cause earned him the revered title of “Osagyefo,” a name that has become synonymous with the hallowed Nkrumah Hall. This title signifies his unmatched dedication to the advancement of African people.

Upon visiting to the Hall, you are welcomed by Nkrumah’s sculpture with writings, “Activists, forward we ever move”. This motto encapsulates the spirit of Nkrumah’s leadership and remains profoundly relevant to the youth of today. It underscores the importance of continuous progress, of pushing the boundaries, and of collective efforts to advance the African continent. The 69-year-old hall accommodates over 450 male residents. Like the words of the Makerere University Anthem state, very many males who have gone through these gates have had the unique opportunity of being residents of this great Hall. According to the Dean of Students Mrs. Winifred Kabumbuli, some of the notable alumni include Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, Mr. Onapito Ekolomoit the Board Chairperson, Nile Breweries Limited, Dr. Charles Kahigiriza, Headmaster Ndejje SS, among many others in Uganda and abroad.

According to Mrs. Kabumbuli, Nkrumah Hall was built in 1954 and was originally under the management of Northcote Hall (Now named Nsibirwa). She adds that Nkrumah Hall was named after Nkrumah the Pan-Africanist by way of appreciating his contribution to the liberation struggles in Africa against Colonialism.

“On a typical weekday, Nkrumah Hall’s corridors and common spaces are busy with students, going to and from lectures in pursuit of education like their highly educated hero-Nkrumah.They equally murmur with excitement about the forthcoming birthday of Kwame Nkrumah, their champion which is today, the 21st of September” remarked Mrs. Kabumbuli.

Mr. Duncan Nuwabigaba, the Hall Chairman says the idea of the annual Nkrumah day was birthed out of the need for students to connect with the Alumni who resided in Nkrumah Hall and share experiences, opportunities, challenges and also lay strategies for giving back to their Hall. He appeals to all the alumni to come and join this annual celebration to take stock of their achievements and learn more about Kwame Nkrumah, his values and contribution to the world.

This year’s celebrations shall happen on 30th September at Nkrumah Hall, and they shall include a football match between the alumni and the residents. There shall also be charity visits to homes of the elderly and orphanges. “I am glad to note that the students themselves guided by the Warden have chosen to help the people that did not have the rare opportunity of belonging to Nkrumah Hall and Makerere University”, said Mr. Nuwabigaba, before adding“Consequently, all the material and gifts to be donated have been generously given by the students, friends and well-wishers as we cultivate a culture of giving back to our Hall and communities that badly need our helping hand.”

According to the warden, Mr. Rodney Rugyema, it is important for the residents both past and present to celebrate what they are, understand Nkrumah in the true sense and emulate him. One of the most abused words today is activism. This has to be given true meaning from the Kwame Nkrumah perspective and the perspective of the university rules and regulations as well as the laws of the land so that students realise the goals for which they joined Makerere University. According to Mr. Rugyema, Nkrumah Hall has produced many great people in all spheres of life including doctors, professors, politicians, guild presidents including the current one,managers, head teachers, directors, etc.

“All these are a significant contribution to the development of Uganda like Dr. Kwame Nkrumah did in Ghana. I therefore call upon these great men in our land and beyond to come back home and inspire these students to ensure that they emulate them for better” said Mr. Rugyema.

In commemorating Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Nkrumah Hall reaffirms its dedication to the principles that define its existence. It is a call to delve deeper into the life and accomplishments of this great African leader and to recognize that his legacy remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for all generations.

“Today’s youth can find guidance in Nkrumah’s unwavering commitment to progress through unity, determination, and an unrelenting focus on the betterment of our continent”, says Dr John Serbe Marfo.

Forwards Ever, Backwards Never

Mak Editor

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Uhuru Kenyatta, African Leaders Inspire Youth at Guild Leaders’ Summit

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Second Annual Guild Leaders’ Summit, organized by the Guild Presidents Leadership Academy, keynote address by Former President of Kenya, H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta, 24th April 2025, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.

In a vibrant celebration of youth leadership and African unity, Makerere University hosted the Second Annual Guild Leaders’ Summit, an event that brought together high-profile dignitaries, student leaders, and international partners for a powerful dialogue on the future of the continent. The summit, organized by the Guild Presidents Leadership Academy, served as a rallying point for East Africa’s young leaders to confront Africa’s most urgent challenges—on their own terms and with their own solutions.

A Warm Welcome and Reflections on Makerere’s Legacy

The Vice Chancellor, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, welcomed the distinguished guests, who included Former President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya, Uganda’s Vice President H.E. Jessica Alupo, former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda, Justice Simon Byabakama, Hon. Mathew Rukikaire, and European Union Deputy Ambassador Mr. Guillaume Chartrain, among others.

In his address, Prof. Nawangwe reflected on Makerere’s deep historical ties to East Africa’s liberation and development movements. He reminded the audience that Makerere University has been a crucible for the continent’s leadership, stating:

“Jomo Kenyatta was the first person to receive a degree from Makerere when, in 1963, he was awarded an honorary doctorate by then Chancellor Julius Nyerere. All freedom fighters in East Africa studied at Makerere.”

H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta is received upon arrival at Makerere University by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. Second Annual Guild Leaders’ Summit, organized by the Guild Presidents Leadership Academy, keynote address by Former President of Kenya, H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta, 24th April 2025, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta is received upon arrival at Makerere University by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

Building on this rich history, Prof. Nawangwe affirmed the university’s current mission to tackle pressing continental issues. “Today,” he said, “Makerere is committed to addressing Africa’s challenges—climate change, disease, poverty, food security, conflict resolution, and economic development. But we cannot do this alone.”

He echoed sentiments later shared by the keynote speaker, stressing that Africa must no longer depend on external interventions:

“Foreign agencies will not solve all Africa’s problems. It is our young people who must step forward and lead the change.”

Uhuru Kenyatta: “You Are the Last Line of Defence”

In a keynote address that resonated deeply with the students and delegates in attendance, Former President Uhuru Kenyatta issued a bold and urgent call to action for Africa’s youth.

“No one is coming to save us,” Kenyatta declared. “You are the last line of defence in the battle to rescue the heart and soul of Africa.”

H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta (2nd Right) poses for a group photo during the courtesy call on the Vice Chancellor with Left to Right: Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Ms. Sarah Kagingo and Guild President-H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu. Second Annual Guild Leaders’ Summit, organized by the Guild Presidents Leadership Academy, keynote address by Former President of Kenya, H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta, 24th April 2025, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta (2nd Right) poses for a group photo during the courtesy call on the Vice Chancellor with Left to Right: Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Ms. Sarah Kagingo and Guild President-H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu.

Positioning today’s youth as the heirs of the continent’s freedom fighters, Kenyatta described the current moment as a new “independence era”—not of political liberation, but of economic and intellectual sovereignty. He urged students to think critically about intra-African trade, which currently accounts for less than 2.5% of global commerce, and to advocate for the removal of internal barriers to trade, innovation, and mobility.

“You are the freedom fighters of this generation,” he said. “Universities must be incubators of change, and students must be the trustees of tomorrow’s Africa.”

Pan-Africanism, Leadership, and Action

Uganda’s Vice President H.E. Jessica Alupo encouraged students to take up the mantle of Pan-Africanism with unwavering commitment. She acknowledged that while the rhetoric of African unity is inspiring, real progress demands more than words:

Left to Right: The Vice President-H.E. Jessica Alupo, Prime Minister Emeritus-Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, Hon. Matthew Rukikaire and other dignitaries follow proceedings. Second Annual Guild Leaders’ Summit, organized by the Guild Presidents Leadership Academy, keynote address by Former President of Kenya, H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta, 24th April 2025, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Left to Right: The Vice President-H.E. Jessica Alupo, Prime Minister Emeritus-Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, Hon. Matthew Rukikaire and other dignitaries follow proceedings.

“You must embrace the spirit of Pan-Africanism. But it is easy to say these words—the challenge lies in collective implementation.”

She emphasized the importance of action-oriented leadership and urged the youth to harness their creativity, energy, and education for the benefit of the continent.

European Union’s Message: Leadership with Integrity

Representing Team Europe, the EU Deputy Ambassador to Uganda, Mr. Guillaume Chartrain, gave a passionate speech on the values of authentic leadership, integrity, and inclusive development. He praised Makerere University as a space where “intellectual ambition meets civic responsibility” and emphasized that leadership is not about prestige, but purpose:

“Be a leader because of what you want to be—not because of what you want to have,” he said.

Citing former Makerere alumni such as Julius Nyerere and Wangari Maathai, Chartrain called on students to model courage, resilience, and humility:

“True leadership emerges in moments of loss—when resilience, not triumph, becomes the measure of one’s character.”

The EU, he said, remains committed to supporting youth through programs like Erasmus+, the EU Youth Sounding Board, and partnerships with organizations like Faraja Africa Foundation and Restless Development. These initiatives empower youth not as symbols, but as active participants in shaping policy and governance.

The Legacy Continues

Throughout the summit, speakers highlighted the importance of legacy and long-term impact. They challenged young leaders to think not just about the present, but about the systems and institutions they will leave behind. In the words of Former President Kenyatta:

“Leadership is not about the next election. It’s about the next generation.”

The summit ended on a high note, with students invigorated and inspired to lead with purpose. As global support grows less predictable and Africa stands at a crossroads, the message from Makerere was clear: the future of the continent is in the hands of its youth. And as the Guild Leaders’ Summit demonstrated, they are ready.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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Admission Lists for Diploma Holders under Government Sponsorship for 2025/2026 AY

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One of the First Class Graduands Shafik Senkubuge (2nd Right) in a group photo with part of the BEHS Class of 2024. 74th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences (CHS), 29th January 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Office of Academic Registrar, Makerere University has released lists of Diploma holders admitted under the Government Sponsorship Scheme for the Academic Year 2025/2026.

Under the Diploma Holders Government Sponsorship Scheme admission does not exceed 5% of the intake capacity to the respective Degree Programme.

The list can be accessed by following the link below:

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Call For Applications: AlphaFold Workshop Uganda 2025

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Are you a researcher or student working in protein-related research, structural biology, or bioinformatics?

The African Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Data Intensive Sciences (ACE) Uganda with support from Google DeepMind, invites researchers and students seeking to integrate AlphaFold into their work to apply for the AlphaFold Workshop to be held at the Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University-Kampala, Uganda from 16th to 20th June 2025.

Deadline: 30th April 2025

Apply here: AlphaFold Workshop – Uganda 2025

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