By Sadique Bamwita
Kampala
The Vice Chancellor Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe has explained the reduction in number of graduands for the forthcoming 76th graduation ceremony, attributing the drop to Covid -19 restrictions which emphasized keeping social distance. He revealed that unlike last year where the University graduated 13,633 Graduands , this year’s 76th graduation ceremony will see 8432 graduate with degrees , post graduate diplomas, masters degrees and PHDs. He said out of these , there are 4,030 females and 4,412 males .
Speaking to media on January 28, 2026 at University Main Hall, Prof. Nawangwe said unlike the previous graduation ceremonies that have been taking place in the last week of January, this year the ceremony was postponed due to elections, and now the graduation ceremony will run from February 24 to 27,2026 at the Freedom Square. He added that graduation booklets will be issued in mid February just a few days to the 76th graduation ceremony.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe said the University is committed to breaking gender gaps through strengthening affirmative policy adding that University’s efforts to promote girl-child education in science is yielding fruits.
Prof. Nawangwe warned female graduands against wearing indecent attires emphasizing that all graduands should wear graduation gowns bought from the University. He, however revealed that all academic transcripts are ready and students will receive them on the graduation day or even before that day.
Prof. Sarah Ssali , the vice Chancellor in charge of academics, said in order to combat absenteeism among students and staff , the University has introduced a biometric attendance system.
The Academic Registrar , Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi ,revealed a total of 185 students will be conferred upon with PhDs. And out of these include 72 females and 133 males. While two honorary PhDs will be awarded to two people for their distinguished services and impact in the community.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi confirmed that 6,043 graduands will be awarded with degrees in different disciplines, 2,034 with masters degrees, 33 postgraduate diplomas and 185 students will receive doctorate of philosophy (PHDs).
The Chairperson Organizing committee for the 76th Graduation ceremony, Prof. Jackline Bonabana Wabbi, said invitation for those attending this year’s graduation ceremony is digital and asked graduands to pick their graduation gowns effective February 2,2026 at the University Hall.
The University Chief Security Officer SSP- Geoffrey Kaheebwa, said only two guests will be allowed to accompany each graduand. He also warned that fire arms and alcohol are prohibited at the graduation venue.
” We shall give no room for goons to access the graduation venue. Access will be limited and everyone has to go through a walk through machine . Unauthorized cameras will not be allowed at the graduation venue except for accredited journalists, ” afande Kaheebwa explained.
