In a recent announcement, Makerere University has adjusted the dates for its 74th graduation ceremony, accommodating approximately 13,000 students set to graduate at the main campus in Kampala. The updated schedule, disclosed in a letter by Prof Mukadasi Buyinza, the academic registrar, indicates that the graduation will now take place from January 22 to January 26 next year.
Initially, the ceremony was slated for January 8 to January 12, 2024. However, the university had to reconsider these dates due to the expected Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, aiming to prevent scheduling conflicts.
Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, the University Vice Chancellor, had previously announced that the Senate would convene to finalize the graduation list last month. Unfortunately, this process was delayed, as explained by the university's spokesperson, Ms Ritah Namisango.
“We call upon all those students who will be graduating to use this time to ensure that they have satisfied the academic requirements and financial obligations,” Ms Namisango urged.
If everything proceeds as planned, this will mark the first time the oldest public institution in Uganda conducts its graduation in January, following the disruption caused by the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic. The university managed to hold its graduation ceremony this year in February. Prof Nawangwe had earlier mentioned a return to the old scheduling in August next year.
Since the Covid-19 lockdown, Makerere University has embraced a blended learning format, with some students participating in off-campus studies through the Makerere University E-learning Environment.
During the 4th Fulbright Prof William Ssenteza Kajubi memorial lecture on November 7, Prof Nawangwe highlighted the institution's adoption of Artificial Intelligence as a new normal to facilitate learning for all students. This shift reflects Makerere's commitment to innovative approaches in the wake of global challenges, ensuring that education remains accessible and resilient.
