Makerere University, Uganda’s premier and oldest institution of higher learning, proudly commenced its 76th Graduation Ceremony today, Tuesday, February 24, 2026. The multi-day event, held at the iconic Freedom Square on the main campus in Kampala, will continue through Friday, February 27, 2026, celebrating the academic achievements of thousands of students.
This graduation marks a significant milestone for the university community, with ceremonies running daily starting at 8:30 a.m. Over the four days, a total of approximately 9,295 graduands will receive their degrees and diplomas across various disciplines. The breakdown includes:
– 213 PhDs (with a notable representation of 87 females and 126 males),
– 2,503 Master’s degrees,
– 206 Postgraduate Diplomas,
– 6,343 Undergraduate Degrees,
– 30 Undergraduate Diplomas.
These figures reflect strong gender participation, though male graduands slightly outnumber females overall (around 5,033 males and 4,262 females, according to university reports).
The ceremony kicked off today with processions of academicians, graduands, and dignitaries, setting a festive yet formal tone. Day 1 featured conferment for colleges including the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) and the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), among others. Subsequent days will cover remaining colleges and schools, such as the College of Health Sciences (CHS), College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University Business School (MUBS), and more.
The event is being presided over by representatives of the Ministry of Education, with State Minister for Primary Education Joyce Moruku Kaducu standing in for the First Lady and Minister of Education, Janet Museveni.
This graduation comes after a postponement from the usual January schedule, adjusted due to national considerations, allowing the university to align with the academic calendar while ensuring a smooth process. Live streams and coverage (including Day 1 broadcasts on platforms like YouTube) have enabled wider participation from families, alumni, and well-wishers.
As graduands cross the stage in their caps and gowns, the occasion symbolizes not only personal triumph but also Makerere University’s enduring legacy of producing leaders, innovators, and professionals who contribute to Uganda and beyond.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026
