The 59th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University was a historic event held over four days from January 19 to January 22, 2009, at the university's Freedom Square in Kampala. This congregation marked a significant milestone for thousands of students completing their studies from the 2007/2008 academic year. Ceremony Overview
The graduation was presided over by the then Chancellor and was structured to accommodate various colleges and schools across the following schedule:
Day 1 (Jan 19, 2009): Traditionally commenced with the Faculty of Arts and the School of Law.
Day 2 (Jan 20, 2009): Included the College of Health Sciences and the Faculty of Science.
Day 3 (Jan 21, 2009): Focused on the Faculty of Social Sciences and the School of Education.
Day 4 (Jan 22, 2009): Concluded with the Makerere University Business School (MUBS) and the Faculty of Computing and Information Technology. Academic Highlights and Statistics
While exact final numbers often varied slightly in news reports at the time, the ceremony celebrated several thousand graduands:
Degree Diversity: Awards ranged from Diplomas and Bachelors to Masters and Doctorates (PhDs).
First Class Honors: The university recognized top-tier academic performers across all faculties based on the Makerere Grading System, where a CGPA of 4.40 - 5.00 constitutes a First Class degree.
Best Performers: Individual awards were typically presented to the overall best students in the Sciences and Humanities, a tradition that continues today with recent top performers like Ruhweza Charles Godfrey at the 74th ceremony. Institutional Context
The 59th graduation took place during a period of significant growth for Makerere:
Freedom Square: The venue remains the symbolic heart of academic achievement at the university, used for all major congregations including the most recent 76th Graduation Ceremony in February 2026.
Regalia: Graduands wore faculty-specific hoods and gowns, such as Purple for Law, Green for Agriculture, and Orange for Education.
For those looking to verify specific names from this historical list, archival records are typically held by the Makerere University Academic Registrar. Grading - Makerere University
Headline: Makerere University Releases Comprehensive List for 59th Graduation Ceremony
KAMPALA – Makerere University has officially released the graduation list for its 59th Graduation Ceremony, marking a significant milestone for thousands of students who have completed their academic journeys. The release of the list follows the recent approval by the University Senate, the apex academic body responsible for awarding degrees and other academic qualifications.
The 59th graduation ceremony is scheduled to take place over several days at the University’s Freedom Square, bringing together graduands from various colleges, their families, and well-wishers.
Ceremony Schedule and Breakdown
The graduation proceedings have been structured to accommodate the large number of graduands across the university’s ten colleges. Historically, the ceremonies are split into sessions, with specific colleges graduating on designated days.
According to the schedule released by the Academic Registrar, the ceremony is set to run from January 29th to February 2nd, 2024, at the Freedom Square. The breakdown is as follows:
Accessing the Graduation List
The 59th graduation list has been made publicly available to ensure transparency and allow graduands to verify their details well in advance. Prospective graduands can access the list through the following channels:
Verification and Clearance
The Academic Registrar has urged all prospective graduands to immediately check the list for any discrepancies. Key details to verify include the spelling of names, the order of names, and the title of the award (Degree, Diploma, or Certificate).
"Any errors must be reported to the respective College Registrars immediately to ensure corrections are made before the printing of certificates," the notice stated.
Furthermore, the university has emphasized that graduation is strictly subject to financial clearance. Students are reminded to ensure they have cleared all tuition arrears and graduation fees. Only those who have met all financial obligations will be permitted to participate in the ceremony and receive their transcripts.
Graduation Fees and Requirements
For one to be eligible for graduation, the university has set specific requirements regarding fees: makerere university 59th graduation list
Payment instructions and the specific fee structure are detailed on the university portal and the graduation list cover note.
Invitation to the Public
Makerere University invites parents, guardians, and the general public to witness the conferment of degrees and award of diplomas and certificates. The university management has advised attendees to adhere to the guidelines regarding entry time to ensure the smooth flow of events at Freedom Square.
This 59th graduation coincides with Makerere University’s ongoing celebrations as a center of academic excellence in East Africa and beyond. As the institution continues to produce skilled human resources for the global market, this year's cohort includes students from varied disciplines, including a significant number of PhD holders and Master’s graduates contributing to the region’s intellectual capital.
Graduands are advised to stay updated through the official Makerere University social media handles and website for any last-minute changes regarding the schedule or logistics.
59th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University was a historic event held over four days from January 19 to January 22, 2009
, at the university’s Freedom Square. This ceremony celebrated the academic achievements of approximately 13,000 students
who received various degrees, diplomas, and certificates across diverse disciplines. Highlights of the Ceremony The 59th Graduation List
: The list included students from all 10 constituent colleges and the Makerere University Business School (MUBS). It featured a wide range of qualifications, from undergraduate degrees and diplomas to postgraduate certificates, master's degrees, and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) awards. Academic Excellence : A significant number of students graduated with First Class Honours
, maintaining the university’s reputation as a premier academic institution in East Africa. PhD Recognition
: One of the most prestigious moments of the 59th graduation was the awarding of doctoral degrees. The PhD recipients
were recognized for their groundbreaking research in fields such as agricultural science, economics, and humanities, contributing to national and regional development. Organizational Details Presiding Official
: The ceremonies were presided over by the University Chancellor. During this period, the leadership of Makerere University was focused on academic reforms and improving research output. : As per tradition, the event took place at Freedom Square
, the symbolic heart of the university, where graduates, parents, and distinguished guests gathered. Graduation Fees
: Students appearing on the list were required to pay standard graduation fees, which traditionally cover the graduation gown , certificate, and transcript processing. Makerere University Significance in University History
The 59th graduation marked a period of growth for the university, as it continued to transition into a research-led institution. The sheer volume of graduates reflected the increasing demand for higher education in Uganda and the university's efforts to expand its capacity through various colleges like the College of Computing and Information Sciences College of Humanities and Social Sciences
For those looking for the full names of specific graduates from 2009, detailed records are typically maintained in the university's academic registrar archives or published in official graduation booklets department from that graduation list? Graduation Requirements | Makerere University
The 59th graduation list is a proud record of achievement for over 13,000 students. Always verify directly through the official Academic Registrar’s portal. If you are an employer or researcher requiring bulk verification, you must write a formal request to the Academic Registrar’s office.
Congratulations to all who graduated in the 59th ceremony! 🎓
Need help with a different graduation year (e.g., 60th or 61st)? Visit the portal and simply change the ceremony dropdown menu.
The 59th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University took place from January 19th to 23rd, 2009. Given the age of this event, official digital lists are often found in archived formats or university-specific repositories rather than as a single live "paper". Key Resources for the 59th Graduation
The Vice Chancellor's Speech: This provides the official context, total number of graduands, and institutional achievements for that specific year. It can be found on the Makerere University Graduation Highlights page under the 2009 section.
Archived PDF Lists: Makerere typically publishes graduation lists through its Office of the Academic Registrar. While newer lists (like the 76th in 2026) are prominently displayed, earlier records like the 59th are often housed in the university's physical main library or digital archives like the Makerere Institutional Repository. General Graduation Standards
If you are referencing the 59th list for academic research or verification, the following standards typically apply to Makerere graduands:
Grading System: Degrees are classified based on CGPA, with First Class requiring a score between 4.40 and 5.00.
College Structure: Graduands are grouped by colleges such as the College of Health Sciences (MakCHS) and College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS).
Fees and Requirements: Current graduation fees are UGX 200,000 for East Africans and $160 for international students, which includes the cost of the transcript and certificate. Grading - Makerere University The 59th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University was
Makerere University 59th Graduation List: A Celebration of Academic Excellence
Makerere University, one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning in East Africa, is set to celebrate its 59th graduation ceremony. The university, which was established in 1922, has a long history of producing some of the most talented and accomplished individuals in the region. The 59th graduation list is a testament to the university's commitment to academic excellence and its role in shaping the future of Uganda and beyond.
A Brief Overview of Makerere University
Makerere University is located in Kampala, Uganda, and is one of the largest and most respected universities in the region. The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate courses in fields such as arts, humanities, social sciences, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). With a student population of over 40,000, Makerere University is a vibrant and diverse community of scholars, researchers, and innovators.
The 59th Graduation Ceremony
The 59th graduation ceremony of Makerere University is a significant milestone in the university's history. The ceremony, which is scheduled to take place on [date], will see over 5,000 graduands receive their diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate awards. The graduands, who have successfully completed their academic programs, will be awarded certificates in various fields, including medicine, law, engineering, business, and education.
Highlights of the 59th Graduation List
The 59th graduation list of Makerere University is a remarkable achievement, with many graduands having demonstrated exceptional academic excellence. Some of the highlights of the list include:
Notable Achievements
The 59th graduation list of Makerere University also highlights some notable achievements, including:
Makerere University's Commitment to Academic Excellence
The 59th graduation list is a testament to Makerere University's commitment to academic excellence. The university has a strong tradition of producing highly qualified and competent graduates who are equipped to make a positive impact in society. The university's commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its:
The Impact of Makerere University Graduates
The graduates of Makerere University have made a significant impact in various fields, including:
Conclusion
The 59th graduation list of Makerere University is a celebration of academic excellence and a testament to the university's commitment to producing highly qualified and competent graduates. The graduands, who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance, are equipped to make a positive impact in society and contribute to the development of Uganda and beyond. As Makerere University continues to play a leading role in shaping the future of the region, its graduates will remain at the forefront of innovation, leadership, and community service.
59th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University took place from January 19 to 23, 2009
. At this historic ceremony, the university conferred various degrees and diplomas upon thousands of graduands across multiple disciplines.
If you are looking for specific names or details from that cohort, you can access the archived documents through the following official channels: 🎓 Accessing the 59th Graduation List Official Archive Makerere University News Portal
typically hosts historic graduation lists and ceremony highlights. Academic Registrar
: For verified academic records or transcripts, you can contact the Office of the Academic Registrar or visit the Senate Building at the Main Campus. Digital Repository : Some older graduation booklets are archived in the Makerere University Institutional Repository (MakIR) 📝 Key Ceremony Details Total Graduands
: The 59th ceremony was a significant milestone, continuing Makerere's tradition as Uganda's premier institution [18]. Grading Standards
: During this period, students were awarded classes based on the university's CGPA scale (e.g., 4.40 - 5.00 for First Class) [17]. 📜 Sample Draft for Alumni Verification
If you need to draft a formal request or announcement regarding this list, you can use the following template: To: The Academic Registrar, Makerere University
Subject: Inquiry Regarding the 59th Graduation List (January 2009)
I am writing to request [verification/a copy] of the graduation list for the 59th Graduation Ceremony held in January 2009. Specifically, I am looking for records pertaining to the [Insert College/School Name, e.g., College of Humanities and Social Sciences].
Your assistance in providing this archived information for [personal/professional] verification would be greatly appreciated. Day 1 (Monday, January 29): College of Health
For current students or recent alumni, note that the university recently celebrated its 76th Graduation Ceremony in February 2026 [20]. draft a specific letter to the Registrar or search for a particular on that list?
The 59th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University took place in January 2009, marking a significant milestone for the thousands of students whose names appeared on that year's official graduation list. At the time, the ceremony celebrated the academic achievements of various graduands across diverse disciplines, from undergraduate diplomas to doctoral degrees.
Below is an essay discussing the significance of the 59th graduation, the achievements celebrated, and the lasting legacy of the "Ivory Tower."
A Milestone of Academic Excellence: Reflecting on Makerere University’s 59th Graduation Introduction
The 59th Graduation Ceremony at Makerere University, held in January 2009, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Uganda's premier institution of higher learning. Often referred to as the "Ivory Tower," Makerere has long been a beacon of intellectual growth in East Africa. The release of the 59th graduation list represented more than just a roll call of names; it was the culmination of years of rigorous academic labor, personal sacrifice, and institutional dedication. The Significance of the 59th Graduation List
The 59th graduation was particularly noteworthy for its focus on the "quality of the product"—the students themselves. During the ceremony, the Chancellor emphasized the importance of not just academic achievement, but the holistic development of students to ensure they could contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic transformation of the country. The list included a diverse cohort of scholars, ranging from undergraduate students in humanities and sciences to high-level researchers receiving their Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees for groundbreaking work in fields like agriculture and drought early warning systems. Challenges and Triumphs
For many on the 59th list, the journey was far from smooth. Students often faced hurdles such as financial constraints and the meticulous process of clearing "missing marks" to ensure their names appeared in the final graduation booklet. For parents and guardians, the ceremony was a celebration of sacrifice, as they often faced "nightmares" to afford tuition fees, viewing the graduation as the "fruit of their struggle". The Role of the Institution
Makerere’s evolution—from its official visit by Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, in 1959 to its status as an autonomous national university—has always been defined by its pursuit of excellence. The 59th ceremony continued this tradition, utilizing the university’s unique grading system (where a First Class degree requires a CGPA of 4.40 - 5.00) to distinguish the highest achievers. The ceremony also showcased the university's colorful traditions, with graduands donning gowns whose colors—such as Natural Green for Agricultural Sciences and Purple for the School of Law—represented their specific colleges. Conclusion
The 59th Graduation Ceremony remains a pivotal moment in Makerere’s history, bridging the gap between the university’s storied past and its future ambitions. The individuals on that list were tasked with becoming men and women of integrity, equipped to fight corruption and lead with purpose in a competitive world. As the university continues to hold ceremonies—now reaching its 76th graduation—the spirit of the 59th cohort continues to inspire new generations of scholars to grace the Freedom Square. The Chancellor's speech on the 59th Graduation Ceremony
59th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University took place in January 2009 . Since Makerere is currently approaching its 76th Graduation Ceremony
(scheduled for February 2024–2026 cycles), the 59th graduation list is an archived historical document rather than a current academic update. Makerere University News Historical Overview: 59th Graduation (2009) Timeframe: The ceremony was held in January 2009 . It immediately preceded the landmark 60th Graduation Congregation held in January 2010.
This era marked a significant period of transition for Makerere, as the university began expanding its collegiate system and increasing its postgraduate output. Makerere University News How to Access the 59th Graduation List
Because the 59th graduation occurred over 15 years ago, the list is not prominently featured on the university's main "current events" pages. You can find it through the following channels: Makerere University Archive: Official Makerere News Portal
maintains an archive of graduation booklets. While recent booklets (e.g., 63rd, 68th, 71st) are readily available, older lists like the 59th may require a physical search at the University Library (Africana Section) Academic Registrar:
For verification of a specific name on the 59th list, contact the Academic Registrar's Office Department of Certification and Verification Third-Party Repositories: Platforms like
often host uploaded PDF versions of older Makerere graduation booklets, though these are unofficial copies. Makerere University News Recent Graduation Reference (for Comparison)
For comparison, the most recent and upcoming ceremonies include: 75th Graduation: January 13th–17th, 2025 76th Graduation: Scheduled for February 24th–27th, 2026 Makerere University Events from that year or finding graduation statistics from that period?
CoBAMS Presents 975 Graduands at Mak 76th Graduation Ceremony
Makerere University's 76th Graduation Ceremony, held on 26th February 2026, public policy in Uganda and beyond. Makerere University News Press Statement: Makerere 76th Graduation Ceremony
A common source of panic among students is confusing the provisional list with the final list.
| Feature | Provisional List | Final List | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Purpose | To allow students to dispute omissions or corrections. | Official confirmation of graduation eligibility. | | Publication | ~6 weeks before ceremony. | ~2 weeks before ceremony. | | Appeals allowed | Yes – via college academic office. | No – only corrections of printing errors. | | Effect | Your name may appear or be missing temporarily. | Your name must appear to graduate. |
Warning: If your name is on the provisional list but you have outstanding fees or unsubmitted project copies, it will be removed from the final list.
Some colleges published downloadable PDF lists on their departmental noticeboards. You can try:
Example structure of a college PDF list: | Reg No. | Name | Program | Award | |---------|------|---------|-------| | 20/U/12345 | NAKATO GRACE | B.Sc. Computer Science | First Class | | 20/U/67890 | OKELLO PETER | B.A. Economics | Second Upper |
⚠️ Warning: Be cautious of third-party websites claiming to have the “full list.” Only trust domains ending in
.ac.ugor the official portal.
The university does NOT release a single PDF file named “59th Graduation List” publicly due to data protection policies. Instead, you must use the official verification portal.
While Makerere University has not yet fixed the exact date for the 59th graduation week (pending senate approval), historical trends offer reliable guidance:
Anticipated timeline for the 59th graduation:
- Release of provisional list: 6–8 weeks before ceremony.
- Publication of final list: 2–3 weeks before ceremony.
- Ceremony dates: To be announced by the Academic Registrar.
Students are strongly advised to ignore rumors on social media and rely solely on the official university portal: https://ar.mak.ac.ug.