The First Session of Makerere University’s 75th Graduation Ceremony commenced on Monday, 13th August 2025, in Freedom Square, with Chancellor Dr. Crispus Kiyonga conferring PhDs upon 49 candidates.
The College of Education and External Studies (CEES) presented the highest number of PhD candidates at 28, followed by the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) with 12, the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) with 6, and the School of Law with 3.
The session was graced by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, represented by Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, Minister of State for Primary Education.
In her address, Hon. Dr Kaducu commended the University Leadership for the excellent organisation of the event and expressed gratitude to the NRM Government for fostering peace and stability, creating a conducive environment for learning.
She reiterated the Government’s commitment to improving Makerere University’s infrastructure and encouraged the graduands to embrace humility in their career beginnings, trusting in divine guidance for future growth.
Dr. Kiyonga’s Address and Key Priorities
Dr. Kiyonga thanked President Yoweri Museveni and Hon. Janet Museveni for the opportunity to serve as Chancellor of his alma mater.
He emphasised the need to implement President Museveni’s directive to integrate political economy into all courses and outlined key areas of focus for the University, including: enhancing research funding, building partnerships with the private sector to commercialise innovations, establishing structured relationships with communities, contributing to the country’s food security system and developing a model agro-industrial park.
Recognition of Excellence
Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe congratulated Dr. Kiyonga on presiding over his first graduation as Chancellor. He also lauded the achievements of staff, graduands, parents, and sponsors, recognising outstanding researchers and teachers.
The honourees included:
Early Career Researchers:
- Dr. Ndejjo Rawlence (CHS)
- Dr. Omara Timothy (CoNAS)
- Dr. Bwambale Erion (CAES)
Mid-Career Researchers:
- Dr. Musoke David (CHS)
- Dr. Mugabi Robert (CAES)
- Dr. Manga Musa (CEDAT)
Senior Researchers:
- Prof. Kamya Robert (CHS)
- Prof. Kirabira John Baptist (CEDAT)
- Prof. Mugisha Lawrence (CoVAB)
- Prof. Matovu Enock (CoVAB)
Best Evaluated Teachers:
- Dr. Wanyama Joshua (CAES)
- Dr. Lwasa John (CAES)
- Dr. Musinguzi Patrick (CAES)
- Dr. Kamulegeya Rogers (CHS)
Commencement Lecture
Prof. Puleng LenkaBula, Vice Chancellor of the University of South Africa (UNISA), delivered the keynote address. Her lecture, “African Women, Reclaim Your Generational Mission and Redefine Your Worth!” inspired the audience.
Prof. Nawangwe introduced her as the first female Principal and Vice-Chancellor in UNISA’s 148-year history, a position she has held since January 2021.
The ceremony celebrated academic excellence and reinforced Makerere University’s commitment to advancing education, research, and innovation in Uganda and beyond.