University Council hosts appreciation breakfast for former Makerere leaders

Kampala, Uganda | PATRICIA AKANKWATSA |  Makerere University council has held a commemoratory breakfast- dubbed “A legacy of leadership” of all the former leaders of the University as a part of its activities to commemorate 100 years of Excellent Service to Humanity.

While speaking at the function, the chairperson of the council, Lorna Magara said that the presentation of Certificates of Service and Souvenirs is premised on what they felt was their obligation as the leadership to honour the contribution of our Chancellors, Vice Chancellors, and Deputy Vice Chancellors who served this institution diligently.

“Today’s celebration is also meant to bring to remembrance the contributions of those who selflessly served Makerere but have since completed this earthly race. It is our humble gesture as the current leadership of this great institution to demonstrate that we remember and sincerely appreciate their respective contributions and influence long after their departure,”

Magara added that as the university embarks on a second century, the institution’s ambitions and plans must continue to reflect the selflessness and diligent service that characterized its founding.

“As rightly stated by our strategic plan for 2020 – 2030, our efforts should be aimed at consolidating Makerere’s position as the global knowledge hub at the heart of Africa,” she said.

The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof Barnabas Nawangwe said that he was delighted to congratulate all of those that were recognized for their service to Makerere University in various capacities.

“I am therefore grateful to all of you, who paved way for us, providing the exemplary leadership that Makerere University as a leading institution ought to exhibit. If we walk with our heads high up, it is because you prepared the way for us. If we boast of a university that is ranked as one of the top research institutions, it is because you gave all your energies to Makerere that she may prosper. Thank you very much indeed for your sacrifices,” he said.

In his keynote address, the former Chairperson of Makerere University Council, Mathew Rukikaire tasked the university management to spearhead and establish a centre dealing with the Sub-Sahara region-related problems such as population growth among others.

“According to the current population in Africa, by 2050 Uganda will double its population from 45 million to 90 million, and the same to Kenya from 50 million to 90 Million. With this kind of population that Africa is witnessing, we can either become the largest slum and most politically unstable region in the world affected by hunger, diseases, wars, and massive immigration to other continents,” he noted.