Restructure, PM Urges Makerere
MAKERERE University Chancellor Prof. Apolo Nsibambi has called for the restructuring of academic programmes at the 82-year old institution, to match global challenges.
MAKERERE University Chancellor Prof. Apolo Nsibambi has called for the restructuring of academic programmes at the 82-year old institution, to match global challenges.
In an advance copy of the speech he was scheduled to deliver at the university’s 45th graduation ceremony on Friday, Nsibambi, who is also the prime minister, said it was important that Makerere places more emphasis on science.
“A starting point on this long journey to progress is to make the learning of computer skills mandatory for all students,†Nsibambi said.
A total of 3,750 graduands, 1,608 of them female, were awarded diploma and degree certificates in various disciplines. It was Nsibambi’s second ceremony since being elected chancellor last November.
The function at the University’s Freedom Square was also addressed by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. John Ssebuwufu.
He said there were more graduates in humanities and called for a careful balance between humanities and science-based disciplines.
“However, under the present circumstances, greater support must be given to science-based programmes at least for the time being,†he said.
Nsibambi said Makerere must strive to maintain high academic standards against increasing enrolment.
“If the reputation of the university is to be retained, special attention must be given to quality and use of adequate mechanisms of quality control,†Nsibambi said.
He called on the fresh graduates to uphold the integrity of Makerere as they go into the field of work. He also urged them to avoid contracting HIV by being morally strong.
Nsibambi said Makerere faced many challenges including becoming a knowledge and information centre which is critical in today’s global economy.
He named the other challenges as attracting and retaining high calibre staff.
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