Makerere University’s Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, has formally welcomed the Class of 2026/2027 in a letter addressed to the newly admitted students, congratulating them on their admission while laying out what he described as the values and responsibilities that come with joining the university.
Writing on behalf of the University Senate and the Office of the Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza described the admission as the beginning of an important chapter, one that comes with acceptance into a community of scholars spanning more than a century of academic tradition. He noted that Makerere’s graduates have gone on to shape public policy, advance scientific discovery, and build enterprises across Uganda, Africa, and beyond, a legacy he said the new intake now inherits and is called to build on.
Prof. Buyinza pointed to how rapidly the world is changing, citing advances in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and data science alongside pressing challenges like climate change, public health, food insecurity, and unemployment. He said these realities demand graduates who are not just knowledgeable, but innovative, adaptable, and ethical, framing Makerere’s mission as developing critical thinkers and responsible citizens rather than simply producing degree holders.
He reminded freshers that university learning differs fundamentally from what they experienced before, requiring curiosity, discipline, and personal responsibility beyond the lecture room. Students were urged to attend lectures consistently, participate actively, read widely, and manage their time effectively, with Prof. Buyinza noting that success at university is rarely about raw intelligence alone but consistent effort and commitment.
He also stressed the importance of complying with university academic regulations, including completing registration within stipulated timelines and staying familiar with the Academic Calendar, Students’ Regulations, and the Academic Management Information System (ACMIS).
Prof. Buyinza placed strong emphasis on academic integrity, warning that plagiarism, examination malpractice, falsification of documents, and other forms of misconduct undermine the purpose of higher education itself. He urged students to protect their reputation and that of the university by conducting themselves with honesty and professionalism throughout their studies.
Freshers were encouraged to embrace the broader university experience, including research, innovation, entrepreneurship, leadership, sports, and community engagement, alongside academics. Prof. Buyinza also highlighted the diversity of Makerere’s student community, drawing students from across Uganda and many other countries, and encouraged newcomers to embrace that diversity with respect and openness, noting that the friendships and networks formed during their time at Makerere could shape their futures well beyond graduation.
He reminded students that conduct both on and off campus, including on social media, reflects on their personal reputation and that of the university, and encouraged them to seek help from lecturers, advisers, or counsellors whenever they face academic or personal challenges rather than struggling in silence.
A Call To Leadership
Closing his address, Prof. Buyinza framed leadership as something that begins with personal responsibility rather than formal titles, encouraging students to become solution providers rather than merely identifying problems. He noted that among the new intake are future scientists, entrepreneurs, judges, medical professionals, teachers, and public servants who will go on to shape Uganda and the wider world.
“Strive to become a person of knowledge, integrity, compassion and purpose,” he told the freshers, urging them to let their education prepare them not just for employment, but for leadership and meaningful impact.
He closed the letter with Makerere’s institutional motto, “We Build For the Future,” wishing the new students every success in their academic journey.
