Education
📸 76th Makerere University graduation starts
Nawangwe, in his introduction speech, celebrated that the university was presenting the highest number of candidates to be conferred with PhDs in a single sitting.
Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the executive director of African Technology, Policy Studies Network, delivering a keynote address, challenged graduates to be more innovative, highlighting that they are churning out when even the education sector itself is under strain. (Credit: Mpalanyi Ssentongo)
By: Nelson Kiva and Martin Kitubi, Journalists @New Vision
KAMPALA - The 76th graduation ceremony that will see 9295 graduates conferred with bachelor’s, master’s, PhDs, postgraduate diplomas, and diplomas kicked off Tuesday (February 24) at Makerere University and will conclude on Friday.
The university will present 213 PhD graduates, 2,503 Master's graduates, 6,343 Bachelor's graduates, 206 Postgraduate Diplomas and 30 Diploma recipients, drawn from nine colleges and two schools for conferment.
The graduation is being presided over by the state minister for primary education, Joyce Moruku Kaducu (Pictured), on behalf of the First Lady and Minister of Education, Mrs Janet Museveni. (All Photos by Mpalanyi Ssentongo and Juliet Kasirye)
Guest speaker Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the executive director of African Technology, Policy Studies Network, delivering a keynote address.
“Among these are members of staff who have successfully completed their studies while serving the University, as well as children of Makerere University staff. We are also proud to graduate students from 67 nationalities, reaffirming Makerere University's status as a globally engaged Institution of higher learning,” Makerere University vice chancellor, Prof Nawangwe said.
Nawangwe, in his introduction speech, celebrated that the university was presenting the highest number of candidates to be conferred with PhDs in a single sitting.
Nawangwe, in his introduction speech, celebrated that the university was presenting the highest number of candidates to be conferred with PhDs in a single sitting.
“We will also present honorary doctorates to Ms Reeta Roy and Mr Japheth Katto in recognition of their distinguished service and exemplary contribution to society. Our meritorious awards not only underline Makerere University's commitment to recognising outstanding leaders but also reaffirm our overall commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically competent but also socially responsible citizens,” Nawangwe said.
Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the executive director of African Technology, Policy Studies Network, delivering a keynote address, challenged graduates to be more innovative, highlighting that they are churning out when even the education sector itself is under strain.
He challenged them not to look for solutions anywhere, but be the solution to the African challenges.
“Justice systems are tested daily. Food insecurity persists. Misinformation spreads faster than truth in this world. Your degrees do not make you better than others. They make you responsible for others,” Ozor said.
He added that Uganda and Africa need these elites in attainment of their development targets, Vision 2040, Uganda’s development blueprint and the Africa Agenda 2063.
“In Vision 2040, Uganda already stipulates the transformation of Ugandan society from a peasant to a modern and prosperous society. And in this, we believe and work towards that. In the next few years, we will achieve this vision. Do not wait to be perfect before you contribute. Do not wait to be wealthy before you serve. Start where you are. Use what you have wherever life takes you, whether you go to the private sector, civil society, academia or entrepreneurship. Carry excellence,” Ozor.
The graduation is being presided over by the state minister for primary education, Joyce Moruku Kaducu, on behalf of the First Lady and Minister of Education, Mrs Janet Museveni.
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Joyce Moriku Kaducu, state minister for primary education, congratulates Dr Patrick Emmanuel after receiving a PHD in information systems during the 76th graduation ceremony at Makerere University on February 24, 2026. (Credit: Juliet Kasirye)
Crispus Kiyonga, Makerere University Chancellor confers a doctorate to Dr Patrick Emmanuel, after receiving a PHD in information systems during their 76th graduation ceremony at Makerere University on February 24, 2026. (Credit: Juliet Kasirye)
Relatives of Harriet Cherotich congratulate her after acquiring a PHD in Geography during their 76th graduation ceremony at Makerere University on February 24, 2026. (Credit: Juliet Kasirye)
Samuel Kaheesi, a graduand celebrates his success with his family after receiving a PHD in environment and natural resources during their 76th graduation ceremony at Makerere University on February 24 2026. (Credit: Juliet Kasirye)
Jennifer Apil celebrates her success after receiving a PHD during the 76th graduation ceremony at Makerere University on February 24, 2026. (Credit: Juliet Kasirye)
Graduands celebrate their success after receiving degrees and diplomas in various disciplines during their 76th graduation ceremony at Makerere Universityon February 24, 2026. (Credit: Juliet Kasirye)
Graduands take a selfie as they celebrate their success in receiving diplomas in various disciplines during their 76th graduation ceremony at Makerere University on February 24, 2026. (Credit: Juliet Kasirye)
