Makerere University has initiated the issuance of transcripts to students well ahead of their scheduled graduation day in a strategic move aligned with the university’s 2010-2030 plan. This forward-thinking approach, encapsulated within the broader vision of full integration and automation of university operations, aims at streamlining academic, financial, and human resource management.
Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, affirmed that the university has commenced the distribution of transcripts to students eligible for graduation. Expressing gratitude to the Academic Registrar and the team for their efficiency, Prof Nawangwe acknowledged the importance of empowering graduates with their academic records before the commencement of graduation ceremonies, set to run from January 29 to February 2.
Originally scheduled for January 8 to 12, the graduation dates experienced an extension, prompted by concerns raised by stakeholders regarding the readiness to successfully execute the ceremonies. The first extension accommodated the Non-Aligned Movement meeting held from January 15 to 20.
Prof Nawangwe stressed the significance of students obtaining their transcripts in advance, enabling them to initiate job searches promptly. This marks the second occasion where Makerere University has implemented the practice of issuing transcripts before graduation, with a previous instance occurring prior to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Dr Umar Kakumba, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academics, assured that all transcripts are readily available, and students who have cleared with the university can access them without hindrance.
Prof Buyinza Mukadasi, the Academic Registrar, disclosed that students began collecting their transcripts last Thursday. Prospective graduands can visit their respective colleges, provide evidence of clearance, and obtain their transcripts. For those unable to collect them in advance, provisions have been made for distribution on the day of graduation.
Prof Buyinza attributed previous delays in document processing to the manual system in place. The recent automation of the system has digitized academic records, significantly expediting the transcript issuance process.
Reflecting on past challenges, Mr Aeron Namaasa, an alumnus of Makerere University, shared his experience of taking a year to secure his transcript. He highlighted the struggles faced by friends who graduated last year and are still grappling to obtain their transcripts.
