Computing & IS
Four Awarded during EASLIS@60 Celebrations: DGRT calls on information scientists to empower research hubs & entities
The three –day celebrations to mark the 60 years of the East African School of Library and Information Sciences (EASLIS@60) service to humanity were crowned by a Luncheon on Friday 10th November, 2023.
The closing ceremony was graced by the Director, Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT), Prof. Edward Bbaale as Chief Guest. Prof. Bbaale implored information scientists to contribute to the development of research and innovation hub at Makerere University and also embrace digital technologies in management of information and data.
Describing the event as a testament to Makerere University‘s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, research and the nurturing of intellectual talent, Bbaale said, library and information sciences play a pivotal role in any university, serving as a cornerstone for teaching, research, and innovation.
He explained that Makerere University activities are guided by the Strategic Plan for 2020-2030, which is a visionary roadmap that aims to transform Makerere into research-led and innovation-driven institution. This vision according to the Director, rests upon three fundamental building blocks, each playing a crucial role in the transformative journey.
The first building block emphasizes a distinct shift towards increased graduate enrollment, particularly at the doctoral and postdoctoral levels. The goal according to Prof. Bbaale is to raise the share of graduate students. Presently the graduate student population stands at around 12% with only 2% being international students.
“As the school celebrates 60 years, it is time to rethink vividly raising graduate enrolment because you hold a key role in trying to raise a generation of people that can be sources of information and data and guidance to national transformation,” Bbaale appealed.
The second building block according to the Director focuses on building research entities designed to catalyze large-scale, multidisciplinary, and multi-institutional research activities. Supported by the policy on the establishment of research entities and institutions of 2021, these entities are envisioned as hubs of innovation, fostering collaboration that transcends boundaries.
“You are the source of information. These research centers will not thrive without you. And we are very happy that you have trained many people and the many libraries are benefiting from you. We can also look at this scenario where you can work to empower research hubs that we have. You have a responsibility to help these research hubs come up because the university is saying, we don’t have any other way we shall be research intensive, we don’t have any other way, we shall be innovation-driven until when we have established large research entities, centers of excellence’ He said.
The third building block underscores the importance of packaging and marketing research outputs for effective adoption and adaptation to impact communities. Initiatives like the Makerere UNDP Innovation Hub aligns with this vision and this is supported by policies like the intellectual property management policy and the research and innovations policy of Makerere University.
“The East African School must work collaboratively with the innovation hub. What are those aspects about innovation that must be developed through training? Because later on, the graduates that you are going to churn out must be able to support innovators through providing the requisite information that is needed”, The Director asserted.
Prof. Bbaale congratulated the school upon its milestones and challenged experts to move with the university aspirations on grounds that library and information science field, focusses on the interactions between people, information, and digital technologies which plays a vital role in enhancing information creation, access, management, sharing, and societal benefit.
As the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training, Prof. Bbaale said they acknowledge the strong complementarity working relation between the DGRT mandate and the expertise of the EASLIS in terms of dealing with the student information, creating repositories and making sure that information is available and usable very quickly when we need it.
Representing the Principal CoCIS, the Deputy Principal Dr. Peter Nabende expressed happiness that EASLIS which started in 1963 as an agreement between the then three countries in East Africa, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda has survived throughout the years.
“It has, not only survived, but achieved greatly in many ways. It continues to uphold excellence in all aspects. From my observations, the levels of professionalism at EASLIS, the levels of commitment, they are the kinds of levels I have never seen anywhere else”. Dr. Nabende stated.
Nabende explained that the school has contributed significantly in terms of research and practice and preservation of records, serving as the main center of excellence in library and information sciences, and in addition continued to establish partnerships with highly reputable institutions worldwide.
Dr. Nabende observed that the school finds itself at a time when the world is advancing technologically but it is advancing in a sense that what is driving the advancement is information.
He called for more concerted efforts to remain the center of reference, through adopting new technologies in information and data management.
He attributed the success of the celebrations to the support from different stakeholders including university top management and the principal’s office for providing most of the funds, contributions from the collaborating institutions and all individuals that played various roles.
The Dean, EASLIS Dr. Sarah Kaddu said the event was to commemorate the relentless pursuit of knowledge, the unwavering commitment to excellence and the profound impact EASLIS has had on society and on to peoples’ lives.
She explained that the three day celebrations characterized by intellectual quiz and talk shows, the symposium and crowned with a luncheon, widened participants aperture, created a platform to meet new people to encounter new ideas and experiences.
The Dean said, the roots of EASLIS trace back to a vision of empowering communities through access to information, preserving knowledge, and nurturing an environment where the pursuit of learners knows no bounds.
“Our school’s legacy extends far beyond the confines of its physical structure. It embodies the spirit of dedication, innovation, and adaptability, among others. Libraries are not mere buildings stocked with books. They are sanctuaries of learning and inspiration, serving as bridges between the past, present and the future.
Information science as a discipline has evolved dramatically, translating boundaries and revolutionizing how we access, organize and disseminate information. Our institution has been at the front line of these changes, adapting and leading the transformations,” Dean noted.
Dr. Kaddu recognized the pivotal role played by the individuals who have been the driving force behind the school’s success. Kaddu recognized faculty members whose passion for scholarship and commitment to nurturing the minds of the next generation of professionals has been exemplary adding that the school has always been a beacon of academic rigor and integrity.
“I have noticed many changes over the years. Our commitment to excellence and nurturing of intellectual curiosity has remained unwavering. This anniversary is not just a testimony to the enduring dedication of everyone associated with this institution, but also a celebration of our collective achievements.” The Dean asserted.
The school she said, has witnessed the rise and disruption of technology as a catalyst, reshaping the landscape of information science.
“Our libraries have transcended physical boundaries, extending into the digital realm. We’ve embraced these changes, fostering innovation and diversifying our programs to meet the demands of the modern era while upholding the fundamental principles that underscore our profession.
Furthermore, our collaborations and partnerships with other institutions, organizations, and communities have not only enriched our education environment, but have also empowered us to make a broader and more meaningful impact on the communities we serve”, Dr. Kaddu assured.
Looking towards the future, Dr. Kaddu said, the school is poised at an exciting juncture with a horizon of possibilities they must continue building on. As the school embarks on the next phase, the Dean called upon faculty and alumni to remain adaptable, resilient, embracing change, while staying rooted in the values and principles that have been the bedrock of this school for six remarkable decades.
Dr. Kaddu expressed gratitude to all who have contributed to the success of this institution and the celebrations.
Four recognized for their outstanding service to EASLIS
The closing ceremony was also marked by awards of four distinguished personnel who have served the school in different capacities.
The Rising Star Award was presented to Mr. Geoffrey Magimbi in recognition of his outstanding academic resilience and success. Magimbi, joined the school as a custodian without any academic paper. Being in the academic circle, he was inspired and determined to enrol for a certificate course , then a diploma, to a bachelors and now pursuing Masters. He has also served in the Ministry of Public service and currently working with the Mountains of the Moon University.
The Leadership Award was presented to Prof. S. AH. Abidi in honor of his long and exemplary service as Director EASLIS (1972-2002). Another Leadership Award was presented to Ms. Sarah Kagingo in absentia, in appreciation of her loyalty and dedicated service as the first Guild President from EASLIS (1997-1998).
The Service award was presented to Boniface Odongo with deepest appreciation for his outstanding contribution as the longest serving librarian from 1996-2012 . Odongo who was unwell, was represented by his daughter Aguttu.
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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