The University on Thursday 29th October 2015 officially admitted all first year students in a ceremony presided over by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Ddumba –Ssentamu.
The colourful ceremony, which started at 2pm, saw academic and administrative staff join the process and witness the swearing-in of the new students. The students swore allegiance to Makerere University, to abide by the rules and regulations governing the institution and that of the country.
The Academic Registrar, congratulated the students upon having qualified to join Makerere University. The students were presented to the VC for admission. The VC, in his remarks congratulated the students upon joining the university and reminded them of the University’s Misson and core function which include, teaching and learning, Research and Innovation and Partnerships and Networking.
To emphasise the greatness of Makerere University the VC reminded the students of the great leaders that the institution has nurtured. These include; the late Mwalimu Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, H.E. Benjamin Mkapa of Tanzania, H.E. Mwai Kibaki of Kenya, H.E Joseph Kabila of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Milton Obote, Sir Edward Muteesa, to mention a few.
“This is an institution whose legacy is that of excellence,” he said.
He cautioned the students to be self-driven as no one will police them at the university.
“University education is very different from primary and secondary education. At university, you are your own supervisor. You are on your own with plenty of freedom. There is no policing because you are considered to be mature persons. We therefore don’t expect to parent you, although there is a wide range of people to guide you through your education and career choices. These include principals, deans, lecturers, wardens, registrars and indeed all members of staff of the University in their various capacities,” he said.
“I strongly urge you to use your time productively while you are here. Try to use your time here at Makerere University as a platform for achieving a better tomorrow. I urge you to make genuine friendships, those that will add value to your life. You need to make wise choices. As we strive to provide you the best services possible, you too need to take responsibility as students. Each one of us has a role to play.”
He then declared them dully admitted to Makerere University.
CEDAT students with the Principal, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe after the ceremony