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Mak DARP Project Launch to Revolutionise Management of Academic Records

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By Ritah Namisango

“This initiative, funded by the Government of Uganda through Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, represents a significant step forward in our efforts to modernize and digitalize our academic processes. It’s therefore with great pleasure and pride that I launch the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes project at Makerere University, and I commission the Registry of Students’ Records and the Archive of Students’ Records,” stated the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo.

As the world continually evolves from manual and traditional methods of records management to modern and digitalized processes, Makerere University launched the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project to ease the storage, retrieval and acquisition of academic documents by her stakeholders.

The project has digitalized records and implemented new processes as well as established a digital state-of-the-art storage facility at the Senate Building to securely store university academic documents. The digitization process comes along with a university policy that guides on how to record, manage, retrieve and dispose of records not in use. This project is designed to reduce on the substantial amount of space that paper storage systems occupy as well as safeguard records from disasters like fire.

Left to Right: Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi, Mrs. Lorna Magara, Hon. Dr. John C. Muyingo and Prof. Fred Masagazi-Masaazi at the Commissioning of the Archive of Students' Records. Launch of the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo, 19th April 2024, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Left to Right: Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi, Mrs. Lorna Magara, Hon. Dr. John C. Muyingo and Prof. Fred Masagazi-Masaazi at the Commissioning of the Archive of Students’ Records.

Officiating at the launch of the DARP project on Friday 19th April, 2024 at Makerere University Freedom Square, Hon. John C. Muyingo, affirmed on behalf of Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni that the launch was a significant milestone in the history of Makerere University.

The Education and Sports Minister further noted that in today’s fast-paced world, universities must manage massive amounts of academic information, and efficient record keeping necessitates that the information is accurate, accessible and secure, benefiting both the institution and its stakeholders. She noted that the DARP system would streamline the processes of managing and accessing academic records, resulting in significant timesaving for students and other stakeholders at the university and beyond.

“Digitalization of academic records and processes is an innovation set to revolutionize the way records are managed by addressing pressing public concerns such as efficiency, security, integrity and accessibility as well as eliminating the unnecessary delays in the processes. The traditional manual approach, while effective in its time has become increasingly challenging to sustain in this digital world, therefore, digitalizing academic records and processes provide crucial responses to the monotonous questions that the outdated manual system never addressed,” stated the Minister’s speech.

The Foundation Stone Commissioning of the Archive of Students' Records. Launch of the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo, 19th April 2024, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
The Foundation Stone Commissioning of the Archive of Students’ Records.

Having outlined the challenges and risks that the traditional paper-based record keeping systems present such as the storage space factor, the risk of mixing active and inactive records, the high rate of wear and tear as well as vulnerability to manipulation of records, the Minister commended Makerere University on the enviable track record of efficiently managing and securely storing its academic documents, Senate minutes, curricula, examination results and students files for nearly a century, despite political upheavals and other challenges.

She observed that digitalized systems would make academic records more accessible to the students and eliminate the frustration of delays caused by bureaucratic inefficiencies and the outdated paper system, enabling them to timely take the necessary steps in academic and professional progression.

As the University embarked on its journey of digital transformation, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni equally applauded Makerere for continuously upholding its commitment to academic excellence, research and innovation. She advised the fraternity to stay committed to the principles of innovation and inclusiveness that define the University. As such, she urged them to embrace the digital transformation wholeheartedly so as to harness the power of technology and enable Makerere University to remain a beacon of excellence in the academic world.

Right to Left: Hon. Dr. John C. Muyingo, Mrs. Lorna Magara, Prof. Fred Masagazi-Masaazi, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Umar Kakumba, Prof. Justine Namaalwa and Ms. Meralyn Mungereza during a tour of the Archive of Students' Records. Launch of the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo, 19th April 2024, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Right to Left: Hon. Dr. John C. Muyingo, Mrs. Lorna Magara, Prof. Fred Masagazi-Masaazi, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Umar Kakumba, Prof. Justine Namaalwa and Ms. Meralyn Mungereza during a tour of the Archive of Students’ Records.

“Since its establishment in 1922, Makerere University has been a beacon of knowledge and learning, shaping the minds of generations of students and contributing significantly to the development of our nation, Africa and the world at large. Thank you for these brains. Your hard work, expertise, and dedication were instrumental in building this DARP project to realization. I am confident that you will have a lasting and positive impact on this university and the entire education sector, not only in Uganda, but the entire world,” said Hon. Janet Museveni.

The First Lady expressed her gratitude for the partnership with Mastercard Foundation and the support it renders in advancing education and innovation at Makerere University.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe highlighted that the launch of the DARP project was not only a landmark achievement for Makerere University, but also a confirmation of the importance that the University Council and Management attach to the role that digitalization and e-services play in implementation of the University strategic plan that continually strives for a professionally managed university.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe delivers his remarks at the launch. Launch of the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo, 19th April 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe delivers his remarks at the launch.

The Vice Chancellor revealed that the official launch of the DARP Project, undertaken in-house by a hardworking team of University staff, was a financial gain on the part of the University and an additional asset in the quest to improve efficiency and effectiveness as far as the University academic records and processes are concerned.

“Our current drive has been the continued digitalization of various business processes and services so as to be more responsive to the dynamic needs of our students, staff and stakeholders. We have been able to achieve this through intentional development of our in-house information systems development capacity, which has saved us a lot of funds in terms of initial purchase as well as annual license renewal costs,” said the Vice Chancellor.  

Prof. Nawangwe stated that the DARP project has greatly contributed to the timely and improved service delivery to students and clients. He added that the ultimate goal is to enable students download their own transcripts without need for elaborate physical processes at the university.

Members of Council and Management follow proceedings during the DARP Project Launch. Launch of the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo, 19th April 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Members of Council and Management follow proceedings during the DARP Project Launch.

“During the 74th graduation ceremony, Makerere University was able to issue academic transcripts to qualifying students before graduation. I am pleased to inform you that we succeeded in issuing of academic transcripts before the graduation date because of the DARP project, which we are launching today. With the digitalization of students’ academic records, the University is now in a better position to provide the required information and data on time,” said the Vice Chancellor.

Prof. Nawangwe elaborated that Makerere, being Uganda’s Premier University has been a major beneficiary of several initiatives aimed at improving ICT infrastructure and connectivity. He added that the University has been able to achieve this largely due to the generous donations of the Government of Uganda and other development partners. He thanked His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of Uganda whose support led to the creation of the Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) in the 2019/2020 financial year with initial funding of UGX 30 Billion.

He revealed that the funding has continued to be availed throughout the last five financial years, which is clear demonstration that the Government of Uganda esteems Research and Innovation as catalysts to Uganda’s continued march from a peasant to a modern and prosperous country.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) presents a plaque to Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi (Left) as her husband and Vice Chanellor, Uganda Christian University, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi (Centre) witnesses. Launch of the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo, 19th April 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) presents a plaque to Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi (Left) as her husband and Vice Chanellor, Uganda Christian University, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi (Centre) witnesses.

“I am proud to say that Mak-RIF has transformed Makerere’s academic and research landscape tremendously. Over the last five Financial Years, we have worked with other key stakeholders including Government ministries, institutions, agencies, organizations, and the private sector. Together, we have continued to increase the local generation of translatable research and scalable innovations that address key gaps required to drive Uganda’s development agenda, especially the un-funded priorities” stated Prof. Nawangwe.

 In the same spirit, the Vice Chancellor applauded the Principal Investigator and Team Leader DARP, Mrs. Patience Rubabinda Mushengyezi and all the Team Members for the hard work that has improved the status of academic records and processes from manual processes to e-services. The DARP project is a collaboration between the Academic Registrar’s Department, College of Education and Externals Studies (CEES), College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) and the Directorate of Information and Communication Technology Support (DICTS). The DARP Project team includes: Prof. Betty Ezati, Dr. Peace Tumuheki, Dr. David Luyombya, Dr. Joyce Bukirwa, Ms. Ruth Iteu Eyoku, Mr. Juma Katongole, Mr. Joshua Muhumuza and Mr. Lubowa Gyaviira.

 The Vice Chancellor also thanked the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) and the Mastercard Foundation for supporting different phases of the DARP Project.

Some of the members of the DARP Project Team from Left to Right: Prof. Betty Ezati, Ms. Ruth Iteu Eyoku, Mr. Joshua Muhumuza, Dr. Joyce Bukirwa, Dr. David Luyombya and Mr. Juma Katongole. Launch of the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo, 19th April 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Some of the members of the DARP Project Team from Left to Right: Prof. Betty Ezati, Ms. Ruth Iteu Eyoku, Mr. Joshua Muhumuza, Dr. Joyce Bukirwa, Dr. David Luyombya and Mr. Juma Katongole.

Mrs. Lorna Magara, the Chairperson of Makerere University Council acknowledged that launching the DARP project at Makerere University marked a significant step forward in digitalizing higher education services. She underscored that the transformational power of digitalization could not be overstated. She stated that by implementing an Academic Records Management System, the University would streamline the tracking and retrieval of academic files and establish a robust platform for digital certification and record verification.

“In an era where credential fraud poses a significant challenge, the DARP Project reinforces transparency, trust, and confidence in our academic processes. It is testament to our commitment to excellence. The DARP Project heralds a new era; one where our certificates and transcripts are shielded against increasingly sophisticated forgeries. By providing digitally verifiable academic documents, we empower employers worldwide to expedite verification procedures,” she articulated.

The Chairperson stated that Makerere University aims to create a dynamic and integrated learning environment with a goal to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-evolving world.  She emphasized the need to prioritize student-centeredness and adaptability which vision perfectly aligns with the DARP Project to ensure that the most deserving students can compete fairly in the job market alongside genuinely qualified candidates.

Mrs. Lorna Magara makes her remarks at the DARP Project launch. Launch of the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo, 19th April 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Mrs. Lorna Magara makes her remarks at the DARP Project launch.

She advised that a system’s effectiveness hinges on the quality of input it receives, therefore, meticulous attention to detail is essential to ensure that the necessary information is accurately fed into the system to yield the expected outcomes. She recommended that vigilant effort has to be invested in ensuring quality processes in how the information is gathered and fed into the system, and the quality of persons tasked to do the work.

Mrs. Magara praised the DARP Principal Investigator for initiating the project in support of the University’s efforts to; address the critical element of maintaining integrity of academic records, significantly contributing to the University’s commitment to digitizing systems, and upgrading the process of archiving of records for ease in verification, certification, and retrieval.

She also extended appreciation to the Government of Uganda for the provision of funds through Mak-RIF, and to Mastercard Foundation for the provision of equipment and other support that will facilitate safe processing and storage of the academic documents.

Launch of the Digitalization of Academic Mrs. Lorna Magara (Centre) applauds as Hon. Dr. John C. Muyingo (Right) and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Left) shake hands following the official launch of the DARP Project. Records and Processes (DARP) project by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo, 19th April 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Mrs. Lorna Magara (Centre) applauds as Hon. Dr. John C. Muyingo (Right) and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Left) shake hands following the official launch of the DARP Project.

The Principal Investigator and Team Leader, DARP project, Mrs. Patience Rubabinda Mushengyezi proclaimed that the launch of the project was the birth of a new era in records management at Makerere University.

To enable the audience to understand and appreciate the situation before the DARP project, Mrs. Mushengyezi shared a documentary that highlighted the transformation from a purely manual process to a digital one. She added that the digitalization of student records from the 1980s changes the narrative of delays and long queues to fast, timely and friendly services to the students.

The Principal investigator disclosed that the DARP project team’s aspiration was to have the digitalization of students’ records rolled out in all the schools and colleges of the University. She observed that because of the hard work of the DARP team, they now have clear and well organized documents and the ‘ugly’ records shall never be seen again since they no longer exist. She expressed gladness that what started as a vision had become reality, culminating in the launch of the DARP project.

Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi makes her presentation at the launch. Launch of the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo, 19th April 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi makes her presentation at the launch.

“Today, Makerere University is launching a new era of digital transformation in the management of students’ records and service delivery. We are changing the narrative of long queues, lengthy processes and we are now moving to efficient and digital services. We are here also to commission the registry of the students’ records and archive. The registry has been fitted with modern shelves with the capacity of storing over 30,000 students files but as we have seen, there is room for improvement and expansion. The archive has been fitted with modern shelves that have a capacity of storing over 100,000 students’ files and 21 wagons will store 170,000 students’ files,” Mrs. Mushengyezi declared.

Recalling the genesis of the DARP Project, Mrs. Mushengyezi shared that when the Government allocated support to the university’s research and innovations fund in 2019, she approached her colleagues and together, they submitted a project proposal. The project identified several challenges which were affecting records management at Makerere University namely; manual records handling, inadequate storage space, inadequate security for records, inexistent policy on records management, and lack of a system to streamline records management. The DARP project therefore set out to address these gaps with the ultimate goal of operating e-services.

Dignitaries enjoy a light moment during the launch of the DARP Project. Launch of the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo, 19th April 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Dignitaries enjoy a light moment during the launch of the DARP Project.

“The objectives of DARP Project were to digitalize academic processes including students’ files and examination results and other documents like senate minutes. We wished to establish a students’ records verification and certification Centre. We also wanted to use ICT to improve efficiency in conducting senate meetings and to archive existing manual documents into properly bound and referenced files. It has been a lot of hard work by the project team, but we have seen God’s hand in this transformational journey. I wish to say that we have achieved 95% of our objectives,” Mrs. Mushengyezi stated.

The Principal Investigator noted that the DARP project had created efficiency in the academic Registrar’s department with ability to generate reports on number of students by categories such as course, graduation cohort, academic disciplines i.e. Medicine, Law, Engineering etc., current enrolment and progression, as well as policies passed by the University Senate per year, and so on.

The Academic Registrar-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (3rd R) with Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi (4th L), Former Academic Registrars-Mr. Alfred Masikye Namoah (3rd L) and Mr. Amos Olar Odur (4th R), as well as staff from the Academic Registrars Department. Launch of the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo, 19th April 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
The Academic Registrar-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (3rd R) with Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi (4th L), Former Academic Registrars-Mr. Alfred Masikye Namoah (3rd L) and Mr. Amos Olar Odur (4th R), as well as staff from the Academic Registrars Department.

She thanked the Government of Uganda for funding the entire process by providing laptops, access control systems, CCTV cameras, printers, furniture, archival boxes, the 21 shelves, the wagons, stationery and facilitation of the entire team. She also thanked Mastercard Foundation for the support through the relief fund.

She appreciated the entire Makerere University Council and Management for the support rendered towards the establishment of the DARP project and for prioritizing the Project as a university programme. In a very special way, she acknowledged Prof. William Bazeyo, the former Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Fred Masagazi Masaazi-Chairperson of Mak-RIF Grants Management Committee (GMC), Prof. Umar Kakumba, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Mr. Alfred Masikye Namoah, former Academic Registrar and the Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, the University Secretary, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, Deputy Registrars namely Mr. Charles Ssentongo and Mr. Tom Otim, for providing tireless support.

The DARP Foot Soldiers pose for a group photo. Launch of the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo, 19th April 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
The DARP Foot Soldiers pose for a group photo.

 In addition, she recognized the supervisors in the Directorate of Research and Graduate namely Prof. Edward Bbaale and Ms. Prossie Nakayiki.

The Principal Investigator, Mrs. Mushengyezi also appreciated the members of staff whom she referred to as DARP Foot Soldiers for organizing, sorting and scanning the records.

In recognition of her selfless service and leadership, the DARP project team members through the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe presented Mrs.  Patience Mushengyezi with a plaque and bouquet of flowers.

Left to Right: Former Vice Chancellor-Prof. George Kirya, Chaplain St. Francis-Rev. Dr. Lydia Nsaale Kitayimbwa, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi and other members of the family. Launch of the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project by the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni represented by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John C. Muyingo, 19th April 2024, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Left to Right: Former Vice Chancellor-Prof. George Kirya, Chaplain St. Francis-Rev. Dr. Lydia Nsaale Kitayimbwa, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi and other members of the family.

The DARP project launch was graced by the Chancellor Emeritus, Prof. Ezra Suruma, Members of Parliament, Vice Chancellors of other Universities, former Vice Chancellors, former Deputy Vice Chancellors in charge of Finance and Administration, the Makerere University Students’ Guild, and Mrs. Mushengyezi’s family. The Chaplain, St. Francis Chapel, Rev. Dr. Lydia Nsaale Kitayimbwa led the opening prayer while the event was moderated by Dr. Zahara Nampewo, the Deputy Principal of the School of Law and Ms. Ritah Namisango, Principal Public Relations Officer and Chairperson of the Protocol, Publicity and Media Sub-Committee for the launch. The Department of Performing Arts and Film was on hand to lead the anthems and keep the guests entertained.

Mak Editor

General

Freshers’ Joining Instructions 2026/2026

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Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi makes his remarks. Inaugural comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing the pedagogical and professional competencies of its academic staff, 11th-14th December 2024, Fairway Hotel, organized by the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), facilitated by the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (CTLS), College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

To All First Year Students;

It brings me great joy to welcome you to Makerere University.

First Year students (Freshers) are by tradition given an “acclimatization” period of one week which is referred to as the “Orientation Week”. The Freshers report on Campus one week earlier than the Continuing students and during this week they are introduced to the key facilities as well as other important aspects of life at the University.

Schedule of Semesters for 2025/2026 Academic Year

Saturday 2nd August, 2025 to Friday 8th August 2025 (7 Days) – Orientation Week

Semester One
Saturday 9th August, 2025 to Saturday 6th December, 2025 (17 Weeks)

Semester Two
Saturday 17th January, 2026 to Friday 16th May, 2026 (17 Weeks)

Orientation Week

Saturday 2nd August, 2025 – Friday 8th August, 2025

During the Orientation week, arrangements are made to enable the Freshers meet and be addressed by Key Officers, Wardens and Student Leaders who welcome the students.

Arrangements are also made to enable the Freshers acquaint themselves with such key facilities at the University like the Library, University Hospital, Games and Recreation Facilities etc.

Freshers are expected to take advantage of the week to survey and acquaint themselves with the general Campus lay out. Another major activity during the Orientation Week is Registration.

All Freshers must ensure that they are registered with their respective Colleges/Schools/Departments/Halls/University Hospital.

Saturday 2nd August, 2025
Resident Freshers report to their respective halls of residence or private hostels by 5.00 p.m. It’s the responsibility of each student to make his/her own travel arrangements to the University or private hostel.

Monday 4th August, 2025
All freshers shall report to the Freedom Square for a meeting (Central orientation program) with the University officials at 9:00am.

College Orientation
Tuesday 5th – Friday 8th August, 2025 College orientation programs will follow during the orientation week. College Principals and Registrars will issue the orientation programs for their colleges.

Lectures will begin on Monday 11th August, 2025.

Registration

For a candidate to be considered a bonafide student of the University, he/she must be registered. Registration is a mandatory requirement of the University which must be done within the first two (2) weeks from the beginning of the semester by every student. Privately sponsored students will pick their original admission letters after payment of 60% tuition and all functional fees from their respective colleges.

Registration will commence on Monday 11th August, 2025 starting at 9.00 a.m. each day at the respective Schools.

Ensure that you complete all the required registration formalities within the prescribed time in order to avoid disappointments later. College/School Registrars will provide registration programs.

Registration Requirements

Admission to Makerere University is a provisional offer made on the basis of the statement of your qualifications as presented on your application form. The offer is subject to verification of your academic documents and payment of university fees.

For registration purposes, all first-year students MUST produce their original documents for verification.

Government sponsored students shall pay shs.163,154/= functional fees to Makerere University.

Privately sponsored students shall pay 839,954/= and 1,495,253/= for Ugandans and International candidates respectively for semester one and 132,250/= for semester two of year 1.

Full admission letters for government sponsored students should be picked from the respective Colleges/Schools beginning Monday 7th July 2025.

The fees structure for privately sponsored students is attached to their provisional admission letters that should be down loaded from their ACMIS portal.

Students in the affiliated Institutions should pay fees indicated by their respective Institutions.

Fresher’s joining instructions concerning reporting, fees payment, academic policies and any important information from the different university units can be viewed from the Academic Registrar’s Department notice boards and University websites www.ar.mak.ac.ug and www.mak.ac.ug respectively.

All freshers MUST have laptop computers as one of the essential tools for study purposes for their programmes.

Other Fees
a) National Council for Higher Education fee (Per Year)-Shs.20,000/= (Payable to the National Council for Higher Education Account in Stanbic Bank).
b) UNSA Subscription fee (per year)-Shs.2,000/= (payable to Stanbic Bank, City Branch, A/C 0140007248501).

Change of Programmes/ Subjects

(a) Change of Programmes
Since selection for specific programmes was made according to each candidate’s performance and order of programme choices, taking into account the available subject combinations and time-table limitations, there is normally little need to change the programme or subjects. However, some places become vacant when some of the students admitted do not take up the offers. Such places are filled through the change of programmes/subjects.

Students who wish to change programmes first of all register according to the registration time-table for the programmes and subjects (where applicable) to which originally have been admitted. Each student who may wish to change his/her programme/subject combination is required to pay an application fee of Shs.6,000/= plus the bank charges to banks used by Uganda Revenue Authority.

(b) Change of Subjects
Students in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Natural Sciences or the College of Education and External Studies may wish to change their subjects.

Students should be aware that changing one subject may result in a change of College. Before students apply to change their programmes, Colleges and Subjects, they are encouraged to seek advice on the cut-off point(s) for programmes, requirements for specific subjects and possible subject combinations.

Change of programme/Subjects will be done online on payment of an application fee of Shs. Six thousand (6000/=) plus the bank charges to banks used by Uganda Revenue Authority (URA).

Students are notified and warned that change of programme or transferring to another subject combination or College without proper authority will be liable to discontinuation from the University.

A student who has been permitted to change his/her programme or subject(s) will be issued with a letter stating so, and on receipt of such a letter that student should complete the ACCEPTANCE part and return a copy of each to the Undergraduate Admissions and Records Office, the former College/School and the new College/School.

The change of programme/subjects will be done online from Monday 4th August, 2025 to Tuesday 12th August, 2025.

N.B: It is advisable that only those students who meet the cut-off points for the desired programmes /subjects may apply.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

Mak Editor

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UVCF Makes Case for HEAC Programme

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Members of the UVCF pose for a group photo with their host, Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (4th L) after the extraordinary sitting on 23rd June 2025. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025.

An extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting at Makerere University on 23rd June 2025 has made a special appeal for the scientific evaluation of the impact of the Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme as its future hangs in a balance. The sitting was hosted by the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza and addressed by the Executive Director UVCF, Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo, Chairperson UVCF and Vice Chancellor Busitema University, Prof. Paul Waako and representative from the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE), Dr. Maria Nakachwa and a representative from the HEAC programme, Prof. David Orema.

Welcoming members of the Forum to Makerere University, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi expressed warm regards from the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe who was away on official duty. Turning to the agenda of the day, he said “I find the proposed items on the order paper quite pertinent given the time, as we offer guidance and input towards our next journey in higher education.

The Host, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (L) makes the opening remarks. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025.
The Host, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (L) makes the opening remarks.

“We believe that by the close of the day, we should be able to come up with a position paper that will inform the next course of action in this regard” remarked Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi in reference to the scheduled updates from NCHE on the HEAC Programme.

The ED UVCF, Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo in his remarks thanked Makerere University for accepting to host the extraordinary session at short notice. Commenting on the successful reconstruction of the Main Building he said, “90% of the Vice Chancellors gathered today had not been here since the conflagration so we wish to commend you on the quality of work, especially the preservation of history.” He reiterated the host Vice Chancellor’s hope that the sitting would come up with unified resolution on important issues pertaining to the Higher Education sector.

Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo makes his remarks. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025.
Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo makes his remarks.

The Chairperson, Prof. Paul Waako thanked the Africa Renewal University for the warm hospitality accorded during the 75th meeting of the UVCF and congratulated Universities upon participating in the National Science Week and Summit 2025.

“This is a very good forum for institutions to interact, share progress on innovations and catch up with how far the country is progressing in science, technology and innovation. The new addition this year was the Science Summit, which is supposed to bring together all scientists in this country and out of that we would like to generate a position paper on science, technology and innovation, which we are insisting should be discussed by Cabinet every year” Prof. Waako remarked.

The Chairperson UVCF, Prof. Paul Waako. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025.
The Chairperson UVCF, Prof. Paul Waako.

The Chairperson UVCF noted that the extraordinary meeting had been called on short notice to feed into ongoing discussions at high levels regarding the HEAC programme and the recently passed Uganda Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025. He noted that the TVET Act has big implications on Higher Education training at Diploma and Certificate level, warranting a discussion by Vice Chancellors.

Stakeholders from NCHE and the Commissioner for Higher Education and Training in the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) were invited to enrich the discussion. Equally invited were; Prof. David Orema who worked with NCHE to develop the HEAC programme and the first training programme at Busitema University, Incoming and 24th Guild President of Gulu University and HEAC beneficiary Mr. Alex Opio Ongom, a student representative from Kabale University, and the first female graduate engineer from Buyende District – also a HEAC beneficiary.

Dr. Maria Nakachwa presents on the HEAC programme. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025.
Dr. Maria Nakachwa presents on the HEAC programme.

Giving an overview of the HEAC programme, Dr. Nakachwa observed that Uganda remains a hub of Higher Education in the region and the programme acts as a good bridge for international students who need to meet entry requirements of Ugandan institutions. She also pointed to the fact that the HEAC programme acts as a remedial programme for students who sat and completed the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) but did not attain sufficient grades to enroll for Diplomas or Degree programmes.

“Looking at the recently released UNEB exams, people with one principal pass were 29,000. Where are they going? Are they going to repeat? Very few do. In 2023, 18,000 students got one principal pass. Should we deny them access to the Ugandan Higher Education?” she pondered.

Prof. David Orema makes his presentation. Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi takes UVCF Members on a guided tour of reconstructed Main Building. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025.
Prof. David Orema makes his presentation.

Dr. Nakachwa added that NCHE, which is mandated by the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act to set minimum entry requirements to any certificate, diploma or degree programme developed minimum standards for the HEAC programme in 2016, with institutions having the leeway to add two or three courses to help students cope with the rigour.

“This is well prescribed in Instrument 34 of 2008. It is a Level 4 of the Uganda Education qualifications framework because it is Post-A-Level, and the Higher Education Certificate Programme was approved by the National Council for Higher Education in 2016” elaborated Dr. Nakachwa.

She added that the HEAC is intended for four categories of students; 1) foreign students whose education system differs from Uganda’s, 2) a remedy programme for students with A-Level qualifications but not admissible for Diplomas and Bachelors, 3) holders of vocational qualifications i.e. holders of national certificates from the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) intending to pursue higher education, and 4) a bridge for the science/arts divide for students who may have passed sciences at O-Level but pursued arts at A-Level and thereafter, seek to pursue clinical or nursing programmes.

Furthermore, she noted that the change in nomenclature from the Higher Education Certificate (HEC) to the Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme was as recommended by a 2022 review, that also recommended an increase in subject content for the Biological and Physical sciences tracks of the programme. The HEAC also offers a third General track for arts. Nevertheless, students on all three tracks are required to interact with content in the three areas of; Life Skills Education, Study Skills and Academic Writing, and Foundations of Mathematics and Statistics.

Sharing results as at December 2024, Dr. Nakachwa noted that 21 out of the 56 registered Higher Education Institutions in Uganda are accredited to run the HAEC programme, with a total of 3,908 students enrolled. “We have learnt some lessons which include; having the regulatory frameworks reviewed is critical, and continuous engagement with stakeholders is paramount.”

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi takes UVCF Members on a guided tour of reconstructed Main Building. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi takes UVCF Members on a guided tour of reconstructed Main Building.

The presentation by the National Council for Higher Education guided the discussions for the rest of the UVCF sitting, which concluded with the resolution to develop a position paper. Thereafter, the UVCF was led on guided tour of the reconstructed Main Building by the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi.

Mark Wamai

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Mastercard Foundation Board pays its inaugural visit to Makerere University

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, H.E. Ellen Johnson and Ms. Reeta Roy, pose for a photograph at the Main Building Entrance. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

On Tuesday, 17th June 2025, a distinguished delegation from the Mastercard Foundation Board visited Makerere University for the first time since the establishment of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the university. The visit underscored the progress achieved through the partnership and its positive impact on the university community, Uganda and the African continent over the past decade. The delegation was welcomed to Makerere by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, accompanied by Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, and Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director for Mastercard Foundation at Makerere University.

The high-profile delegation was led by Her Excellency President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the former President of Liberia and the first woman to hold the presidential office on the African continent. She serves on the Board alongside other members such as Mr. Zein M. Abdalla, the Board Chairperson; Ms. Jennifer Fonsted; Mr. Jim Leech; Mr. Stephen Toope; Ms. Sewit Ahderom; Ms. Baroness Valerie; Hon. Louise Arbour; Ms. Tsega Gebreyes; Mr. Jay Ireland; Mr. Michael Sabia; Ms. Carole Wamayu; Ms. Robin Washington; and Ms. Reeta Roy, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Mastercard Foundation. Additionally, the Board members were accompanied by the leadership team of the Mastercard Foundation, including Mr. Doug Kasambala, Chief Financial Officer; Ms. Ivy Mwai, Education and Skills Lead; Mr. Adrian Bukenya, Country Director for Mastercard Foundation-Uganda Programs; and Ms. Rachel Nandelenga, Head of Country Program Communications.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, welcoming H.E. Ellen Johnson, Ms. Reeta Roy and other members of Mastercard Foundation Board to Makerere University. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, welcoming H.E. Ellen Johnson, Ms. Reeta Roy and other members of Mastercard Foundation Board to Makerere University.

The Mastercard Foundation Board conducted a series of meetings with various stakeholders at Makerere University. The meetings begun with the University Leadership, which featured key figures such as Rt. Hon. Daniel Kidega, the Deputy Chairperson of the University Council and Chairperson of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Advisory Board at Makerere; Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor; Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Chairperson of the Steering Committee for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program; and Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, the University Secretary.

While addressing the delegation, Vice Chancellor Prof. Nawangwe expressed gratitude for the partnership between the Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University. He highlighted the Foundation’s impact on Africa’s higher education sector and the livelihoods of young people across the continent.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Prof. Justine Namaalwa, interacting with Members of the Board. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Prof. Justine Namaalwa, interacting with Members of the Board.

“We are privileged to host Her Excellency Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, along with other Members of the Board of Mastercard Foundation and the Foundation’s President and CEO, Ms. Reeta Roy, for the first time at Makerere University. The Mastercard Foundation has significantly impacted Uganda and Africa’s higher education sector and the livelihoods of young people, for which we are very grateful,” Prof. Nawangwe remarked.

Prof. Nawangwe also expressed appreciation to the Mastercard Foundation for its partnerships with Makerere University, which began with the Scholars Program and now encompasses additional initiatives such as the E-learning Initiative and, most recently, the Climate Resilience and Sustainability Collaborative project.

During the meeting with the Scholars Program staff, the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, had the opportunity to outline the achievements of the first 10 years (First phase) of the Scholars Program at Makerere University and shed light on the future of the second phase of the Program at Makerere University.

Rt. Hon. Dan Kidega, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Mr. Yusuf Kiranda interacting with the Board Members during their meeting with the Scholars Program staff. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Rt. Hon. Dan Kidega, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Mr. Yusuf Kiranda interacting with the Board Members during their meeting with the Scholars Program staff.

Among the achievements highlighted by Prof. Namaalwa during the first phase were the following:

  • The Program supported 1,032 young people, of whom 76% were females and 24% were males.
  • As of January 2025, 965 Scholars had graduated, achieving an exceptional completion rate of 94%.
  • Scholar Alumni have moved on to various pursuits, including formal employment (34%), entrepreneurship (11%), and further education (3%).
  • Strengthening the Student Mentorship Engagements through capacity-building sessions for 97 university staff across the colleges, which benefits both the Scholars and other students.
  • Drafting the Makerere University Career Guidance and Mentorship Policy to streamline mentorship engagements across the university. The Policy is currently under review by the University Council.
  • As of 2024, the Scholars Entrepreneurship Fund has created 86 jobs across various communities.
  • The Scholars made a positive impact on communities through their Annual Day of Service, supporting twelve communities by constructing boreholes for clean water access in two communities and building and equipping classrooms in three communities.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, making a presentation to the Board during the meeting with Scholars Program staff. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, making a presentation to the Board during the meeting with Scholars Program staff.

Prof. Namaalwa also elaborated on the accomplishments thus far in the second phase of the Scholars Program by highlighting the following;

  • 101 Scholars recruited into the Program across different categories.
  • Prioritizing the safety of students and staff, emphasized by the well-articulated Makerere University Safeguarding Policy and its implementation activities.
  • A fully operational Disability Inclusion Support Centre.
A Board Member posing a question to Program Staff during their interaction with the team. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A Board Member posing a question to Program Staff during their interaction with the team.

On the other day’s activities, the Board also had the chance to view a mini-exhibition showcasing projects implemented by the alumni scholars. Furthermore, they engaged in a focus group discussion with both the Scholars and alumni.

On their part, the Board members expressed gratitude to Makerere University Management, led by Prof. Nawangwe, for the tremendous achievements the university had attained through the implementation of the Scholars Program and other initiatives aimed at uplifting underprivileged young people in Uganda and Africa. The Board members also expressed their appreciation to Prof. Namaalwa and the Scholars Program for the excellent job done in implementing the Scholars Program and for the continuous support provided to the Scholars and Scholar-alumni.

Ms. Reeta Roy, the President & CEO of Mastercard Foundation inspecting one of the alumni stalls during the exhibition. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Reeta Roy, the President & CEO of Mastercard Foundation inspecting one of the alumni stalls during the exhibition.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nawangwe, concluded the day by presenting each visitor with an unforgettable souvenir of Makerere, which included exquisite Makerere University coffee mugs and executive pens.

Prof. Nawangwe presenting a souvenir to H.E. Ellen Johnson at the end of her visit to Makerere University. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe presenting a souvenir to H.E. Ellen Johnson at the end of her visit to Makerere University.

Mr. Bernard Buteera is the Principal Communication and Public Relations Officer of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University

More photos from the visit

Members of the Board interacting with a cross-section of the Scholars and alumni of Mastercard Foundation during a focus group discussion. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Members of the Board interacting with a cross-section of the Scholars and alumni of Mastercard Foundation during a focus group discussion.

H.E. Ellen Johnson and other Board Members interact with a student during a visit to the Disability Support Centre. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
H.E. Ellen Johnson and other Board Members interact with a student during a visit to the Disability Support Centre.

Prof. Nawangwe, H.E. Ellen Johnson, Ms. Reeta Roy and other Board Members pose for a photograph with Scholars Program Staff. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe, H.E. Ellen Johnson, Ms. Reeta Roy and other Board Members pose for a photograph with Scholars Program Staff.

Prof. Nawangwe, H.E. Ellen Johnson, Ms. Reeta Roy, and other Board members pose in a photograph with a cross-section of Scholars and alumni of Mastercard Foundation at Makerere. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe, H.E. Ellen Johnson, Ms. Reeta Roy, and other Board members pose in a photograph with a cross-section of Scholars and alumni of Mastercard Foundation at Makerere.

Bernard Butare

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