Agriculture & Environment
CAES Presents Overall Best Performing Student in the Sciences & a Record 28 PhDs at the 76th Graduation Ceremony
The College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) presented the best performing student in the Sciences at the 76th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University. Ms. Esther Ziribaggwa graduated with a CGPA of 4.77 in the Bachelor of Agricultural and Rural Innovation. She credits her success to resilience and hard work, despite the financial challenges she faced during her studies.
The four-day 76th graduation ceremony commenced on 24th February 2026 with the CAES, the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), and the School of Law presenting graduands for the award of degrees and diplomas of Makerere University.
CAES Graduation Statistics
CAES presented a total of 561 students (238 female and 323 male). Of these 28 (10 female and 18 male) graduated with PhD, 144 (68 female and 76 male) with Masters, 380 (157 female and 223 male) with Bachelor’s degrees, and 9 with Post graduate diplomas (3 female and 6 male). The PhD graduates included; Mr. Ainebyona Ronald Rwambuka, Ms. Amongi Winnyfred, Ms. Apil Jenifer, Mr. Asizua Denis, Mr. Astatke Dejene Kebede, Ms. Atuhairwe Privah, Ms. Ayesiga Stella Bigirwa, Mr. Biryomumaisho Dickson, Ms. Cherotich Harriet, Mr. Kalimunjaye Samuel, Ms. Kesiime Vasiter Eunice, Ms. Khakasa Elizabeth, Mr. Kimbowa George, Mr. Komi Gentle Wilson, Mr. Kusiima Kaheesi Samuel, Mr. Mathe Lukanda Musondolya, Mr. Mukama Innocent Hope Tinka, Mr. Mukengere Bagula Espoir, Mr. Nakhokho Evans Martin, Ms. Faridah Nalwanga Sendagire, Ms. Nalweyiso Amina, Ms. Nampijja Zainah, Ms. Njenga Peninah Wambui, Mr. Nkurunziza Gelase, Ms. Ojera Alal Ato Gertrude Miriam, Mr. Sebuliba Richard Mutumba, Mr. Shimali Fred, and Mr. Ssubi Allan Johnson.
Overall graduation Statistics
During the course of the 76th graduation ceremony, a total of 9,295 students will graduate with degrees and diplomas of Makerere University. Of these, 4,262 (46%) are female and 5,033 (54%) are male. A total of 213 students will graduate with PhDs, the highest number in the history of the University; 2,503 with Masters degrees; 6,343 with Bachelor’s degrees; 206 with postgraduate diplomas, and 30 with Diplomas.
Postgraduates constituted 31.4% of the total number of graduands.
Remarks by the Vice Chancellor
Addressing the congregation, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, congratulated the graduates on reaching this significant milestone. “You graduate today from one of the finest universities in the world,” he said. “You have distinguished yourselves through discipline, integrity, and academic excellence, and we are immensely proud of you. The qualifications you carry are vital to society. We have equipped you with the knowledge and skills to secure employment or to create enterprises that will, in turn, employ others. Should you not find immediate employment, do not despair, instead, reflect on the vast opportunities around you and rise to the challenge as entrepreneurs. Do not despise humble beginnings. To our PhD graduands, you now join the global community of scholars. Africa looks to you with great expectation. Use your expertise to transform our continent.”
He appreciated the parents and guardians for the sacrifices they made to support their children’s education.
New Research Excellence Recognition Plans
The Vice Chancellor informed the congregation that beginning with the 76th graduation ceremony, the University will recognize outstanding PhD students who are members of staff. He congratulated those who completed their doctoral studies in record time while continuing to serve without study leave, commending their resilience and leadership. “These will receive the Makerere PhD Resilience Award”.
Similarly, the University will henceforth honour the best PhD and Master’s theses, as selected by the Higher Degrees Committee of Senate. The students with the top 10 theses at the 76th graduation are: Kawesi Paul – MA Law (School of Law), Katende Stephen – MSc Quantitative Economics (COBAMS), Najjinda Shamirah – PhD Management (COBAMS), Turyahabwe Irene – MSc Molecular Biology (COVAB), Tayebwa Dickson – PhD (COVAB), Batte Herbert – PhD Mathematics (CONAS), Ssekago Arnold – MSc Mathematics (CONAS), Namiyingo Julian – PhD Literature (CHUSS), Namata Brenda – MSCO (CHUSS), and Tayebwa Asaph Kamau – MBA (MUBS).
Recognition of the CAES Research Output
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor commended the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences for spearheading transformative research aimed at strengthening Africa’s food systems. Among the initiatives he highlighted was the Healthy Soy Project, funded by the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which seeks to develop sustainable, affordable, and nutritious soy-based foods to combat child stunting in Uganda and other climate-affected regions. He also cited a project focused on enhancing value addition in cocoa production through the development and scaling of a single fermentation box technology, now adopted by more than 70% of farmers in major cocoa-producing districts.
Efforts to Transform Makerere into a Research-led University
The Vice Chancellor noted that Makerere University continues to advance steadily toward becoming a truly research-led institution – one that generates knowledge to empower communities, strengthen industries, and drive national transformation.
He expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for entrusting the University with resources to support more than 1,400 high-impact research and innovation projects under the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF). The Fund has enabled researchers to provide practical, evidence-based solutions in sectors including agriculture, land management, energy and minerals, peace and security, and education. Through Mak-RIF, over 200 PhD students have received support to pursue their research, many of whom are graduating at the 76th graduation ceremony.
The Vice Chancellor further highlighted the pivotal role of the Makerere University Technology and Innovations Centre (MUTIC) in advancing incubation and commercialization. “The Centre offers mentorship, business development training, intellectual property support, and industry linkages to help transform research outputs into viable enterprises. To date, eleven spin-off companies have been established by students and staff, while the University’s Innovation Pod (UniPod) has incubated more than 100 projects in the past year. The short-term target is to establish 50 spin-off companies annually, with plans to double that number in the long term.”
In partnership with the Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat in the Office of the President, the University has also introduced awards to recognize outstanding researchers and innovators. “The Innovation Commercialization Award underscores the institution’s commitment to translating research into practical products, services, and technologies that address real-world challenges and support national development,” the Vice Chancellor noted.
Prof. Nawangwe appreciated the Government of Uganda for securing a USD 162 million loan from the Korea Exim Bank to support critical infrastructure development at the University. The funding will facilitate the construction of new facilities for the School of Medicine, School of Dentistry, School of Engineering, the Science and Technology Centre, and the completion of the School of Computing and Information Sciences- an unprecedented development in the University’s history.
He also thanked development partners who provide research grants and scholarships, including the MasterCard Foundation, European Union, Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, International Development Research Centre, Korea International Cooperation Agency, German Academic Exchange Service, National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, United States Agency for International Development, Wellcome Trust, KfW, Inter-University Council for East Africa, Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture, African Research Universities Alliance, the PLUS Alliance, the Worldwide Universities Network, the Association of African Universities, the Alliance for African Partnership, the Madhvani Foundation, and the Government of Uganda through the Higher Education Students Financing Board.
He further acknowledged the Embassy of China, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, various government ministries, State House, and private sector partners – including Stanbic, Absa, NCBA, DFCU, and Centenary Bank-for their continued support.
Remarks by the Chancellor
In his remarks, the Chancellor, Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, appreciated the parents, guardians, and sponsors whose unwavering support enabled the students to succeed.
“At the heart of the graduands’ accomplishments are the professors, lecturers, and administrators of the University, ably supported by the University Council. It is only fitting that we acknowledge and commend them for a job well done,” he noted.
He further extended profound gratitude to H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the NRM Government for the invaluable financial and other support extended to the University.
Going forward, he encouraged the University Administration to strengthen research funding, forge stronger partnerships with the private sector to commercialize innovations, deepen structured engagement with communities, and fully leverage the abundant technological resources available to the institution.
Message from the Minister of Education and Sports
The Minister of Education and Sports, also First Lady, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, represented by Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu – Minister of State for Primary Education, commended the Vice Chancellor and the leadership of Makerere University for upholding the standards that continue to distinguish the University across Africa and beyond.
She expressed gratitude for the spirit of constructive collaboration among management, staff, students, and development partners, noting that such cooperation is vital for institutional growth and academic excellence. She paid special tribute to the University Council, particularly the Chairperson and its members, for their dedicated oversight and stewardship. Their commitment to transparency and good governance, she observed, has strengthened public confidence in this historic institution.
A major milestone highlighted by the Minister was the establishment of the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (RIF), which supports high-impact research aligned with national priorities and development goals. Through this initiative, thousands of researchers and innovators have developed practical, scalable solutions that are transforming communities and key sectors across Uganda.
She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening higher education through expanded research funding, digital transformation, cultural reform, and stronger collaboration between academia and industry. “The vision is clear: universities must not only produce graduates, but also solution-makers and job creators”.
Implementing the Competence-based Education and Training
Reiterating a key directive from the Ministry of Education and Sports, she emphasized that all institutions of higher learning must prepare for the full implementation of Competence-Based Education and Training by July 2027. “This reform represents more than a policy shift. It signals a fundamental transformation in how graduates are prepared, with greater emphasis on practical skills, innovation, and problem-solving.”
She urged the Vice Chancellor and his team to lead in curriculum reform, staff development, and infrastructure enhancement to ensure the successful rollout of competence-based education.
The Minister further urged university management to ensure that all satellite campuses are fully accredited and that their programmes meet the same high standards of quality and relevance as those offered at the main campus. This, she stressed, is essential to safeguarding the integrity of the University’s degrees and effectively serving students nationwide.
Addressing the graduates, she noted that Uganda and Africa need innovators to modernize agriculture, engineers to build quality infrastructure, healthcare professionals to strengthen health systems, and educators to inspire future generations. “The world you are entering is dynamic, interconnected, and technologically driven. Artificial Intelligence is reshaping industries; climate change is redefining agriculture and urban planning; and global markets are transforming employment patterns. In this rapidly evolving landscape, you must remain adaptable, creative, and committed to lifelong learning.”
Address by the Commencement Speaker, Prof. Nicholas Ozor
In his address titled Knowledge with Purpose and Service with Integrity, the Commencement Speaker, Prof. Nicholas Ozor, Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, urged the graduates to embrace lifelong learning, prioritize purpose over comfort, build character before career, and serve something greater than themselves. He encouraged them to believe in Africa and take action, rather than waiting for solutions from elsewhere.
Addressing the graduates of CAES, he emphasized that they stand at the intersection of survival and sustainability. “In a world confronting climate change, food insecurity, and environmental degradation, your knowledge is vital. You will work with farmers, ecosystems, land, water, and policy. You will shape food systems and livelihoods. Respect indigenous knowledge, embrace scientific innovation, and champion sustainability. The future of Africa depends on how well we feed our people and protect our land.”
Research Excellence and Innovation Commercialization Awards
During the graduation ceremony, Makerere University recognized the top researchers and innovators from the 10 Colleges. At CAES, Dr Mugabi Robert from the School of Food Technology and Nutrition received the Overall Top Researchers Award, 2026; Dr. Nalwanga Sendagire Faridah received the Best Early Career Researcher Award, Dr Mugabi Robert scooped the Mid-Career Research Award whereas Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze got the Senior Career Research Award. Prof. Phinehas Tukamuhabwa, Dr Ephrahim Nuwamanya, Assoc. Prof. Ahamada Zziwa, and Dr Ssempijja John Edson were recognized among the best innovators.
More about Esther Ziribaggwa, the overall best performing student in the sciences:
Agriculture & Environment
Inaugural Schools Environmental Conference Rallies Young Learners to Champion Environmental Sustainability
Kampala, March 20, 2026 : More than 250 primary school pupils have been rallied to take an active role in environmental protection during the Inaugural Schools Environmental Conference hosted at Makerere University.
Organised by the Environment for Development (EfD) Uganda in partnership with the Green Vests Initiative, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), and the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), the conference aimed to promote environmental awareness and responsible stewardship among learners.
The half-day event brought together Primary Five to Primary Seven pupils and their teachers for a series of educational sessions and interactive activities under the theme “Strengthening Environmental Stewardship in Schools.”
The initiative reflects a broader commitment to nurturing environmental responsibility from an early age, complementing EfD’s traditional focus on policy engagement and research. The programme included keynote remarks, environmental education sessions, and interactive activities designed to inspire pupils to take practical steps in protecting their environment.
Schools Key in the Fight Against Environmental Crisis
Schools must take a leading role in shaping environmentally responsible citizens if Uganda is to effectively address climate change and environmental degradation, a policy engagement specialist said.
Representing the College Principal and Director of the Environment for Development (EfD) Mak Centre, Dr. Peter Babyenda described schools as critical platforms for promoting environmental stewardship and influencing long-term behavioural change.
He welcomed participants and encouraged young learners to envision themselves as future students and leaders at Makerere University. “In a few years, you will be here, and this will be your college,” he said.
Dr. Babyenda warned that Uganda remains highly vulnerable to climate change, with more than 40 percent of its land degraded and an estimated 100,000 to 122,000 hectares of forest lost annually. He noted that environmental degradation is already affecting key sectors including health, food security and education.
In Eastern Uganda, over 90 percent of children reportedly experience climate-related disruptions to learning, while urban centres such as Kampala face increasing flooding, disease outbreaks and extreme heat, which affect school attendance and concentration.
He attributed the crisis largely to human activities such as deforestation, industrialisation, wetland encroachment and poor waste management. Citing recent floods in the capital, he said blocked drainage systems and irresponsible garbage disposal are worsening the situation.
“Most of the floods you are seeing are likely caused by us,” he said. “If we don’t protect our environment, the effects will find us—even in our classrooms.”
Babyenda emphasized that teachers, particularly at primary level, play a critical role in shaping environmentally responsible behaviour early in life. “You can play a great role in safeguarding the environment if you teach these young ones from the start. It is very easy to change behaviour from the beginning,” he said.
He noted that Uganda’s youthful population-about 44 percent below the age of 15, presents a unique opportunity to drive sustainable change. With more than 18,000 primary schools and about 3,000 secondary schools, he said the education system remains the largest structured platform for influencing behaviour nationwide.
Babyenda called for practical interventions within schools, including tree planting, establishment of school gardens, waste recycling and composting, clean-up campaigns, energy conservation and the creation of “talking compounds” that reinforce environmental responsibility.
He also urged schools to strengthen environmental education through clubs and peer learning initiatives, and to revive greening policies such as school woodlots under the Green School Programme.
Highlighting the importance of forests, Babyenda pointed to the degradation of major reserves such as Mabira Forest, Bugoma Forest and Budongo Forest, warning that continued loss of tree cover threatens biodiversity, livelihoods and climate stability.
“We are saying trees, trees, trees because their benefits are immediate,” he said, noting their role in absorbing carbon dioxide, regulating temperatures and maintaining ecological balance.
Encouraging personal and community responsibility, he challenged learners to influence change beyond the classroom. “You can even correct your parents—tell them that throwing rubbish out of a car window is not right,” he said.
He also proposed simple but symbolic actions to embed environmental values in everyday life. “Let us make it a habit—even on your birthday, plant a tree. That is how you celebrate life while protecting the future,” he added.
Babyenda stressed that environmental stewardship is a shared responsibility requiring coordinated efforts from individuals, schools, communities and government institutions.
“Start small but think big. Let each school be a beacon, one tree, one club, one lesson at a time,” he said.
He pledged the centre’s readiness to partner with schools and stakeholders to advance environmental sustainability efforts across the country.
“The future lies in you, the young ones,” he said. “If we guide you well, you will become the leaders who protect our environment.”
Green Vest Initiative Champions Student-Led Environmental Action”
Green Vest Initiative Team Lead John Robert Tenywa said the gathering aimed to inspire a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens who act beyond their personal interests to protect shared resources.
The event, held under the theme “Strengthening Environmental Stewardship in Schools,” emphasized the critical role of young people in driving environmental change. Tenywa noted that schools provide a strategic platform for shaping attitudes and behaviors that can influence communities and the country at large.
“We are focusing on raising a generation that lives beyond itself—one that is mindful of the environment and committed to making a difference,” he said.
Tenywa outlined the Initiative’s key activities, including cleaning public spaces, educating communities about environmental conservation, and promoting waste management practices that turn waste into valuable resources. He added that the organisation conducts monthly community outreach activities, combining clean-up campaigns with public sensitisation efforts.
For the current cycle, the Initiative has shifted its focus toward education, targeting students with information and discussions on environmental protection. Tenywa said this approach complements ongoing clean-up efforts by addressing the root causes of environmental degradation through awareness.
He also highlighted the Initiative’s faith-based foundation, noting that it integrates moral and spiritual values into its work while engaging communities.
The engagement marks a growing effort by civil society and public institutions to involve young people in addressing environmental challenges, particularly in urban areas where waste management and pollution remain pressing concerns.
Everyone Has a Legal Role in Safeguarding the Environment
Wilber Ikalai, NEMA Manager of Environment Education and Advocacy, urged students to understand that every individual has a legal and moral duty to maintain a clean and healthy environment. “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it,” he said, quoting environmentalist Robert Swan. He reinforced that the National Environment Act mandates all Ugandans to prevent pollution and enhance environmental quality.
Ikalai highlighted that environmental stewardship goes beyond trees, water, and wildlife, noting that human behaviors are integral to the ecosystem. He gave examples of harmful practices in schools, including improper disposal of waste, overuse of water, overprinting of documents, and the unsafe handling of food packaging materials that release chemicals into the food chain. “If you don’t take care of yourself, you are part of the pollutants affecting your environment,” he said.
The NEMA official also outlined the agency’s role in coordinating national environmental management, working with lead institutions such as the Uganda Wildlife Authority, National Forestry Authority, local governments, and educational institutions. Through policy guidance, environmental impact assessments, and public education, NEMA seeks to promote sustainability and prevent environmental degradation.
Ikalai called on students to adopt green practices in schools, including proper waste management, water conservation, minimizing overprinting, and avoiding harmful materials in food handling. He encouraged learners to report unsustainable practices they observe and to actively contribute to a culture of environmental responsibility. “Students are the stewards of the environment for the coming generations,” he said, urging them to take personal responsibility for practices that impact both their immediate surroundings and the broader ecosystem.
Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer, EfD-Mak Centre
Agriculture & Environment
Launch of the MUJAES Online Submission System & Call for Manuscripts for Volume 15 (Issue 1)
Makerere University students have once again demonstrated academic excellence and commitment to environmental conservation after emerging as the overall winners in the Uganda Wildlife Authority Tertiary Institutions Conservation Competitions held during the national celebrations to mark the World Wildlife Day.
On 25th February, a team of eight students, including members of the Makerere University Tourism Association (MUTA), proudly represented the university at the competitions organized by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The event took place at the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre in Entebbe and brought together students from various tertiary institutions across the country to showcase knowledge and innovation in wildlife conservation.
The competitions formed part of the activities marking World Wildlife Day and were held under the theme “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conservation, Health, Heritage and Livelihoods.” The theme highlighted the importance of protecting plant biodiversity, particularly species that support traditional medicine, cultural heritage, and sustainable livelihoods.
After a highly competitive contest that tested participants’ knowledge of conservation, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability, Makerere University emerged as the overall winner. The Uganda Wildlife Research and Training College finished as the first runner-up, while Nkumba University secured the second runner-up position.
The team’s achievement was officially recognized during the national World Wildlife Day celebrations held on 3rd March at the Entebbe Works Grounds. During the ceremony, the students were awarded a trophy in recognition of their outstanding performance.
The award was presented by Uganda’s Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, alongside the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, and the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra. The leaders commended the students for their remarkable achievement and emphasized the critical role young people play in promoting conservation and protecting Uganda’s natural heritage.
The winning team comprised students from diverse academic disciplines as follows:
- Iradikunda Jemimah – Bachelor of Biomedical Laboratory Technology
- Nankabirwa Edith Mirembe – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Agenrwoth Brenda – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Joel Kibirango – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Elvis Mujuni Kamara – Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (Botany/Zoology)
- Kamyuka Ben – Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (Botany/Zoology)
- Karisa Geofrey – Bachelor of Science in Forestry
- Nyangoma Caroline – Bachelor of Science in Forestry
According to Prof. Jim Ayorekire, Head, Department of Tourism at Makerere University, the win not only highlights Makerere University’s continued leadership in conservation education but also underscores the importance of empowering young people to take an active role in protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable use of natural resources.
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