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.
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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