The Vice President of Uganda, H.E Jessica Alupo, on Sunday, April 12, 2026, presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the Shs2 billion Makerere University St. Augustine Student Centre expansion project, marking a historic milestone in the 85-year existence of the St. Augustine Catholic Community at Makerere University.
The day-long celebrations, held under the theme of faith, service, and formation, also featured a Holy Mass at Freedom Square led by the Archbishop of Kampala, Paul Ssemogerere, who served as the main celebrant.
In her remarks, Vice President Alupo praised the clergy for their spiritual support to national leadership and acknowledged the role of the Church during the electoral period.
She emphasised that the Church and government share a common mission. “The Government of Uganda remains committed to working closely with religious institutions and leaders to deliver essential services… including peace, security, education, health, and social welfare,” she said.
Reflecting on her time at Makerere, she added, “I recall my time here as a student. I used to sit in the chapel on the left side… Those memories remain vivid.”
She praised the chaplaincy’s long-standing impact, noting: “This chapel has stood not merely as a building of worship, but as a spiritual home for generations of students, staff and alumni.”
Alupo also confirmed government interest in supporting the project: “The President has requested a full project profile and bill of quantities so that further support can be coordinated,” she said, adding that she also made a personal contribution.
The chapel has nurtured generations
The Chaplain of St. Augustine Chapel, Fr. Josephat Ddungu, welcomed dignitaries and expressed gratitude for the wide participation in the anniversary celebrations.
Fr. Ddungu highlighted the chapel’s long history of nurturing vocations and community life. “St. Augustine Chapel is a home for many… many have found love here and are now happily married,” he said, drawing laughter from the congregation.
He also emphasised the chapel’s role in shaping religious vocations: “We thank God for the many vocations to priesthood and religious life that have emerged from this community.”
On development, he announced expansion plans: “We are planning to expand the Student Centre to create more space… This extension will stand as a lasting legacy of this milestone celebration.”
He concluded with a call for support: “I invite you to be generous in your giving. As I often say, the money is in your pockets and bank accounts.”
Do not be afraid to witness your faith
In his homily, Archbishop Ssemogerere reflected on 85 years of the chapel’s existence, describing it as a place of spiritual refuge and formation. “This place continues to be a door open to everyone, believers and unbelievers alike,” he said.
He urged Christians to remain steadfast in their faith: “Do not be afraid to testify to your Catholic faith. Do not be afraid to pray the Holy Rosary. Do not be afraid to receive the sacraments.”
The Archbishop linked the celebration to Divine Mercy Sunday, noting, “Jesus does not reject Thomas in his doubt. Instead, He invites him to touch His wounds — a reminder that it is love that saves.”
He added that the chapel remains a symbol of hope: “It is a light that shines in the hearts of all God’s children… a sanctuary of prayer, reflection and mercy.”
A legacy built over generations
Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, praised government support for infrastructure development at the university. “The Government of Uganda has made significant investments,” he said.
He reaffirmed the university’s commitment: “As management, we commit to providing full institutional support to ensure the success of this expansion project.”
Trade Minister Hon. Francis Mwebesa pledged support for the fundraising effort. “I have been invited here for the fundraising for the chapel building project, and I am happy to be part of this occasion,” he said.
“I will make my contribution… My presence here is to support the development efforts being undertaken by this community.”
Faith and formation over 85 years
Dr Venny Nakazibwe (PhD), a distinguished Ugandan art scholar, educator, and administrator recognised for her work in textile design, art history, and design education, highlighted the chapel’s role in shaping student life at Makerere University.
“St. Augustine Chapel has long been a place where young people are nurtured, guided, and formed,” said Dr Nakazibwe, a senior lecturer who has served as the Dean of the Margaret Trowell School of Industrial and Fine Arts (MTSIFA) and Deputy Principal of the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT).
She paid tribute to past leaders, noting: “We pay special tribute to those who have shaped this community across the decades, including Cardinal Emmanuel Wamala and Monsignor Lawrence Kanyike.”
She emphasised the chapel’s relevance to modern challenges: “In an era where young people face profound social and ethical challenges, this mission remains deeply relevant.”
The celebrations included a procession from the chapel to Freedom Square, where hundreds attended Mass and a fundraising ceremony aimed at supporting the new Student Centre.
The event brought together senior government officials, clergy, university leadership, students, and alumni in a rare convergence of faith and academia.
