Agriculture & Environment
CAES Presents Overall Best Performing Student in the Sciences & a Record 28 PhDs at the 76th Graduation Ceremony
Published
7 months agoon

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:
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Agriculture & Environment
Call for Abstracts – 4th International GORILLA Conference 2026
Published
7 days agoon
September 17, 2026
Deadline for submission of Abstracts: Wednesday, 30th September 2026
The Organizing Committee of the 4th International Conference on Geographical Science for Resilient Communities, Ecosystems and Livelihoods under Global Environmental Change (GORILLA) invites researchers, practitioners, policymakers and other stakeholders to submit abstracts for oral and poster presentations. The conference will be held from 30th November-4th December 2026 at the Commonwealth Resort Munyonyo, Kampala, Uganda.
Abstract requirements:
- Submit a 250-word abstract addressing one of the conference sub-themes.
- Oral and poster presentations are accepted.
- Proposals for special sessions may also be considered.
- Abstracts should be submitted online through https://gorilla.mak.ac.ug/ by Wednesday, 30th September 2026.
- Submissions will undergo peer review and will be considered on a rolling basis.
Key sub-themes include:
- Geographies of Climate Change Resilience: Contradictions and Opportunities
- Environmental Risk and the increasing Polycrisis
- Geospatial Artificial Intelligence for Sustainability of Livelihood
- Emerging Geographic Technologies and Innovations for Resilience
- Green-based transitions for sustainable livelihoods
- Cities of the Future: Reimagining Urbanity in the Age of Innovation and Sustainability
- Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Nature-based Solutions
- Biodiversity, Biogeography and Ecosystem for Societal Resilience
- Early Warning Systems and Anticipatory Actions for Resilient Communities
- Geographies of water systems resilience
- The Changing geography of agrifood systems
- Climate mobility, displacement and natural resource conflict
Objectives of the Conference
- To facilitate the exchange of contemporary resilience-building knowledge and innovations across disciplines.
- Enhance dialogue to bridge the science-policy-practice interface to address deficits that are limiting the resolution of pressing resilience challenges and shape policy agendas.
- Enhance capacities and capabilities of early career scientists through mentorship and dedicated training focused on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
- Increase knowledge and scientific outputs from Sub-Saharan Africa by facilitating special issue publications
- Provide an opportunity for increased networking and beneficial partnerships from attendees with varied backgrounds and professional affiliations to address complex sustainable development challenges
Details can be obtained from the conference website: www.gorilla.mak.ac.ug or by sending an email to: gorilla.conference@mak.ac.ug
Registration for the Conference: gorilla.mak.ac.ug/register
GORILLA Conference Secretariat
Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics and Climatic Sciences, Makerere University
P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
Contact Persons:
Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze – Local Organizing Committee Chair
Tel: +256 772 696 751
Dr. Jerome Lugumira – Co-Chair
Tel: +256 785 207 156
Agriculture & Environment
Makerere Hosts Inaugural Falling Walls Lab Competition as Innovators Pitch Solutions to National Challenges
Published
1 week agoon
September 14, 2026
Students and researchers from Makerere University and other institutions pitched 12 innovations addressing challenges in healthcare, clean energy, agriculture, waste management and community resilience during the inaugural Falling Walls Lab Kampala, held at the School of Public Health Auditorium, Makerere University.
The competition brought together emerging innovators to present solutions to practical challenges through a three minute pitch, followed by questions from a panel of judges.
Modelled on the Falling Walls format that originated in Berlin, the event required each participant to identify a “wall” a problem or barrier, and demonstrate how their innovation seeks to break it down.
Mudhasi wins with newborn jaundice screening device
Andrew Mudhasi of Makerere University emerged as the overall winner with a score of 90 per cent for a low cost medical device designed to improve newborn jaundice screening across different skin tones.

Mudhasi explained that the device uses optical sensor technology and a skin tone targeting algorithm to provide a rapid reading, with the aim of helping nurses and clinicians identify jaundice more efficiently.
During questions from the jury, Mudhasi said the device had not yet been tested on actual babies but had undergone laboratory testing using simulated skin tones.
He reported an accuracy rate of 94 per cent when the device was compared with laboratory spectrophotometers.
The innovation is intended initially for use in clinics and hospitals, with Mudhasi saying the team is also considering a version that could eventually allow mothers to screen babies at home.
Mudhasi’s innovation has previously received recognition at the African Business Concept Challenge and the iF Design Student Award, according to his presentation.
Rhonda’s innovation tackles diaper waste
Rhoda John of the University of Nairobi emerged in second place with 89.6 per cent for an innovation addressing the problem of used diaper waste.

Under the theme “Breaking the wall of diaper waste and drug soils,” Rhonda explained that her team extracts sodium polyacrylate, the absorbent polymer found in diapers, and replaces the sodium with potassium.
The resulting potassium based superabsorbent material is designed to act as a “water battery” in soil by absorbing and retaining water for plants during dry periods.
John said testing showed a 99 per cent increase in germination and a 23 per cent increase in drought resistance.
The innovation also seeks to reduce the amount of used diapers ending up in landfills and the environmental effects associated with their decomposition.
During the question and answer session, John explained that her team was working with government environmental officials in Nairobi on a pilot collection system to address the challenge of gathering used diapers at scale.
Mahera takes third place with herbal peptic ulcer treatment
Stuart Mahera of Makerere University finished third with 86.2 per cent for a herbal formulation targeting peptic ulcers.

Presenting under the theme “Breaking the wall of Nature and Modern Medicine,” Mahera argued that conventional treatment for peptic ulcers can involve multiple medicines and may be associated with side effects and antimicrobial resistance.
His proposed formulation, MARAC capsules, is intended as a monotherapy, combining properties required for peptic-ulcer treatment in a single capsule.
Mahera said his team had carried out quality control work, including characterisation and dose quantification, and had conducted preclinical trials on laboratory mice.
He also told the jury that an application had been submitted to the National Drug Authority as the team awaits the next stage of the regulatory process.
According to Mahera, the proposed seven day treatment would cost about Shs21,000, compared with the existing 14 day treatment approach.
Innovators present solutions to practical challenges
The remaining presentations covered a wide range of challenges.
Esther Nakungu of Utamu University presented Agri-Track, a digital record keeping solution intended to improve visibility, accountability and management of farm operations and financial information.
Dr. Jimmy Chachiga, a Makerere University participant, presented a solar photovoltaic cooker with a heat storage system designed to provide a cleaner and more reliable cooking option during both sunny and non sunny periods.
His presentation focused on reducing dependence on biomass fuels and addressing the challenges associated with intermittent solar energy.
Abdul Noor Luttamaguzi, a PhD student and senior government fisheries officer, presented a mobile application aimed at helping fish farmers and extension officers report, track and manage disease outbreaks.
Henry Duke Tamale presented a herbal cream targeting antibiotic resistant biofilm infections associated with diabetic foot ulcers.
Marvin Seruwu proposed adapting existing near infrared brain monitoring technology to help detect extra-axial brain bleeds in health facilities where access to CT and MRI equipment is limited.
His proposal seeks to repurpose existing technology towards a diagnostic need that could be particularly important in settings where advanced imaging facilities are not readily available.
Kennedy Kisame presented a poultry alert and diagnosis system combining satellite weather information with computer vision disease detection. The proposed system could be accessed through a smartphone application, SMS or USSD, making it potentially usable by farmers with limited internet access.
Frank Atwiine proposed a solar powered mobile diagnostic van designed to bring ultrasound and other diagnostic services closer to rural communities.
Johnson Makmot, a software and blockchain developer, presented a platform that combines GPS tracking and blockchain-based tokens to incentivise and verify plastic-waste collection in Kampala.
Dr. Nelson Ndugu, from a partner university, presented an artificial intelligence tool designed to translate agricultural research publications into local Ugandan languages and generate voice notes for radio-based extension delivery.
The final presentation came from Dr. Juliet Akola, a Ugandan post doctoral researcher at Mangosuthu University of Technology in South Africa.
Akola presented a community digital resilience initiative focused on mapping risks in Kampala’s informal settlements, including flooding, fire, poor sanitation, waste management and inadequate infrastructure.
Her proposal seeks to combine local community knowledge with geographical information systems and link identified risks to action plans involving municipalities and other stakeholders.
Nawangwe calls for more investment in innovation
Closing the event, Prof. Nawangwe congratulated all the participants and described their presentations as an important beginning for Makerere University, Uganda and the wider region.

Drawing on his experience attending the Falling Walls conference in Berlin, the Vice Chancellor said initiatives of this nature are important because innovation will play a major role in determining the future of countries.
He encouraged participants to make their pitches more precise by clearly identifying the problem they are addressing, explaining their proposed solution and demonstrating what they have already achieved.
Prof. Nawangwe also welcomed the participation of innovators from other universities and countries, noting that the Kampala event had attracted participants beyond Makerere.
He thanked the Africa Office of the Falling Walls Foundation for its role in bringing the initiative to Makerere and encouraged continued support for innovation.
The Vice Chancellor further linked innovation to Uganda’s growing youth population and the need to develop home-grown solutions to address challenges such as youth unemployment.
The inaugural Falling Walls Lab Kampala ultimately provided a platform for innovators to move ideas beyond the classroom and laboratory and demonstrate how research, technology and creativity can be applied to challenges affecting communities.
| Position | Winner | Institution | Score |
| 1st | Andrew Mudhasi | Makerere University | 90% |
| 2nd | Rhoda John | University of Nairobi | 89.6% |
| 3rd | Stuart Mahera | Makerere University | 86.2% |
Agriculture & Environment
CAES Freshers Urged to Embrace Academic Excellence to Become Agents of National Transformation
Published
1 month agoon
August 13, 2026
Orientation is an important first step in helping newly admitted students transition into a new academic and social environment. Beyond introducing students to institutional structures and services, orientation provides an opportunity to set expectations, clarify responsibilities and inspire students to approach their university journey with purpose. For the 2026/2027 intake at Makerere University’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the orientation emphasized the importance of making the most of the university experience, pursuing academic excellence, and developing the knowledge, skills, and values needed to become responsible citizens, innovative professionals, and agents of national transformation.
The CAES Freshers’ Orientation, held on Thursday, 6th August 2026, at the School of Agricultural Sciences (SAS) Quadrangle, provided newly admitted students with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the College’s academic programmes, administrative structures, technological resources, library services, counselling and other student support services. Beyond introducing the freshers to the University environment and the resources available to support their academic journey, the orientation emphasized the broader purpose of university education. Students were encouraged to view their time at Makerere not merely as a pathway to academic qualifications, but as an opportunity to develop relevant competencies, build character, discover their potential and acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to address real-world challenges and make meaningful contributions to society.
CAES: A College of Opportunities
Welcoming the freshers to CAES, the Principal, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, urged them to recognize the significance of the opportunity they had received to study at Makerere University and to use their time at the institution wisely.
Prof. Nabanoga reminded the students that university represents a critical stage in their journey towards becoming responsible and productive citizens. She cautioned them against letting the excitement, newfound freedom and social opportunities distract them from their academic responsibilities.

“You are at the tail end of your journey to becoming important citizens, and therefore you need to use your time at the University effectively,” she said, urging the students to begin thinking about what they wish to become from the very beginning of their university education.
She emphasized that success at university requires discipline, commitment and a clear sense of purpose. The freshers were encouraged to take ownership of their education and make deliberate decisions that would contribute to their personal and professional growth.
According to Prof. Nabanoga, CAES is strategically positioned to prepare graduates who can respond to some of the most pressing challenges facing Uganda and the wider world, particularly in food production, agriculture, environmental sustainability and entrepreneurship.
“CAES is at the centre of national development. No life exists without food and a conducive environment,” she noted, describing CAES as a “college of opportunities” where students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to become change agents.

“At CAES, we focus on skilling you to become change agents to feed nations and to protect the environment, and to become job creators,” she said.
Prof. Nabanoga further encouraged the freshers to take advantage of the expertise available within the College, particularly by actively engaging with their lecturers and seeking guidance whenever they encounter academic or other challenges.
She also underscored the importance of investing in young people as future leaders and contributors to national development, noting that sustainable transformation requires a generation equipped with the skills, values and capacity to take on leadership and other critical responsibilities.
CAES Human Capital Critical to National Development
Speaking on the relevance of CAES to Uganda’s development agenda, the Deputy Principal, Prof. Bamutaze, highlighted the College’s responsibility to produce the human capital required to drive the country’s socio-economic transformation.
He noted that Uganda’s development priorities, including agro-industrialization, tourism and mineral-based development, require innovative, skilled and dynamic human resources capable of turning opportunities into tangible solutions.

“The country desires innovative and dynamic people who can contribute to its socio-economic development,” he said.
Prof. Bamutaze encouraged the freshers to take their education seriously and use their time at Makerere to develop the competencies, creativity and innovative mindset needed to respond to emerging national and global challenges.
Students Urged to Become Problem Solvers
The Dean of the School of Agricultural Sciences, Dr. John Baptist Tumuhairwe, explained that the School is committed to producing graduates capable of identifying challenges and developing practical solutions.
He urged the students to make academic excellence a guiding principle throughout their university journey, emphasizing that consistent effort, discipline and commitment would be critical to their success.
Dr. Tumuhairwe also stressed the importance of respect, encouraging students to respect themselves, their colleagues, lecturers, administrators and the wider University community.
He cautioned the freshers against behaviours and activities that could undermine their academic progress and future prospects, particularly betting, drug abuse and irresponsible sexual behaviour.

The Dean further encouraged the students not to underestimate the programmes they had been admitted to. He noted that every programme presents opportunities for success when students remain committed, focused and willing to work hard.
He urged the freshers to take ownership of their academic journeys rather than judging their programmes solely on the basis of perceived popularity or immediate career prospects.
Freshers Encouraged to Settle Down and Focus on Excellence
Representing the Dean of the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering, Prof. Ivan Muzira Mukisa encouraged the freshers to settle into university life quickly and begin working towards academic excellence from the outset.
He cautioned them against wasting time and urged them to develop productive habits early, noting that the routines and discipline established during the first year can significantly influence their academic performance throughout their university journey.
Prof. Mukisa emphasized the importance of effective time management and encouraged students to strike a healthy balance between academic responsibilities and social activities.

He also highlighted the value of teamwork, noting that the ability to work collaboratively is an important skill both within the University and in the professional world.
The students were further encouraged to seek guidance whenever they encounter difficulties instead of struggling with challenges on their own. They were reminded to make use of the academic and student support structures available within the College and University.
Similarly, the Dean, School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences, Prof. Revocatus Twinomuhangi urged the students to focus on academic and professional success.
Freshers Introduced to University Services and Policies
In addition to the guidance from College leadership, the orientation familiarized the freshers with important administrative, technological and student support services that will shape their experience at Makerere University.
The College Registrar, Ms. Jofrina Kyohairwe, briefed the students on registration procedures and key academic policies. The session aimed to familiarize the freshers with the administrative requirements they are expected to fulfil and help them avoid challenges arising from failure to comply with University regulations and procedures.

The students were also introduced to ICT support services by Mr. Albert Muhumuza, who highlighted the importance of effectively using the University’s digital platforms and technological resources to support their learning.
They were further introduced to library services, which provide access to essential academic resources for coursework, research and independent learning.
The orientation also highlighted counselling and guidance services available to students to support them as they navigate academic, personal and social challenges during their university experience.
Pictorial of the orientation:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1DmjNj1pdounFv9juFTDG98p2XQO3tq6b?usp=sharing
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