Makerere University has dismissed reports suggesting that its 76th graduation ceremony has been postponed, confirming that the event will proceed as scheduled from February 24 to 27, 2026, at the university’s Freedom Square.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the university clarified that no changes have been made to the graduation program, emphasizing that the ceremony remains firmly on course.
“The 76th Graduation Ceremony has not been postponed. The dates remain February 24–27, 2026, at Freedom Square,” the university stated.
The ceremony will commence at 8:30am each day, during which Makerere will confer degrees and diplomas on 8,432 graduands. These include 185 PhDs, 2,034 Master’s degrees, 6,043 Bachelor’s degrees, 137 postgraduate diplomas, and 33 specialised postgraduate diplomas.
According to the university, the current graduation represents a 30 percent increase in graduate output compared to the 75th graduation ceremony. Makerere attributed the growth to its deliberate focus on graduate training and a research-led academic agenda.
The university further confirmed that academic transcripts are ready and have already been handed over to respective college principals. Graduands may collect their transcripts from their colleges ahead of the ceremony.
Makerere urged all graduands to ensure that they have cleared tuition and graduation fees and verified the correctness of their names on the official graduation lists. They were also advised to strictly follow the graduation schedules issued by their respective colleges.
Issuance of graduation gowns will begin on February 2, 2026, at the University Hall Dining Hall, running from 9:00am to 4:00pm on weekdays. Graduands will be required to present valid identification and proof of payment.
Attendance at the graduation ceremony will be by invitation only, with each graduand allowed to bring two guests. Graduands have been advised to arrive at the venue by 7:00am to allow time for security screening.
The university also outlined a list of prohibited items, including firearms, sharp objects, alcohol, large bags, cameras, radios, and bottled drinks. Members of the media will be required to obtain accreditation from the Public Relations Office.
Parking arrangements include two main parking areas for guests, designated parking for VIPs, and three access points to manage entry into the graduation venue. Additionally, from February 2, an information tent will be operational outside the Senate Building to assist graduands and the public with inquiries.
Makerere University reiterated its commitment to a smooth and orderly graduation process and called on graduands and guests to observe all issued guidelines.
