More than 12,000 students are set to gather at Makerere University Freedom Square for the week-long 74th Makerere University graduation ceremony, scheduled from January 29th to February 2, 2024. The last graduation event was presided over by former Chancellor Professor Ezra Suruma, whose term ended in December 2023.
With the search for a new Chancellor initiated by Makerere University, concerns arise as the process is yet to yield results just a week before the anticipated graduation ceremony. Simon Kizito, representing the University Secretary Yusuf Kiranda, issued a call for nominations on December 1, 2023.
The Chancellor, as the titular head, oversees ceremonial assemblies, confers degrees, and bestows academic titles and distinctions. The appointment rests with the President upon the University Council’s recommendation. Although the Chancellorship application deadline was January 11, 2024, the process is ongoing.
Referring to the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act 2001, if a Chancellor is not appointed in time, the Vice-Chancellor assumes the role in the Chancellor’s absence. Makerere University Vice-Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe assured that the University is working diligently to complete the Chancellor selection process before graduation.
The graduation ceremony will witness over 120 students being awarded Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees, an increase from previous ceremonies. Nawangwe expressed excitement about this development.
To address previous delays in transcript preparation, an internal memo by Academic Registrar Professor Buyinza Mukadasi revealed plans to issue transcripts daily during the upcoming graduation ceremonies. The delay in transcripts during the 73rd graduation ceremony was attributed to difficulties in obtaining necessary materials. Efforts are in place to ensure a prompt issuance of transcripts for the 74th ceremony.