As Makerere University prepares to mark 90 years of existence, a senior academic member of staff has spoken against the event.
Professor Elly Rwakishaya Katunguka, the director of Research and Graduate Training, says there is no need to have the celebrations when the lecturers’ living conditions are wanting, the university’s name in terms of output is declining, and the sanitation problems at the university are not addressed.
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In August this year, Makerere, the oldest university in the country, shall mark 90 years of existence. The university, which now boasts of over 35,000 students, started in 1922 as a technical school with 14 students. In June Professor Venansius Baryamureeba, the university’s Acting Vice Chancellor, declared a full year of cerebrations till August 2013.
But Professor Katunguka told Uganda Radio Network that institutions usually cerebrate Silver Jubilees at 25 years, Golden Jubilees at 50 years and Centenary at 100 years. He argues that the university can put the celebrations on hold until it makes 100 years.
Professor Katunguka says the challenge facing Makerere now is cleaning its image for the donors to fund a number of the university programs, including research.
But Professor Baryamureeba insists the cerebrations are necessary as a means of seeking for donations to fund the different university projects.
He adds that the cerebrations shall also be used to recognize some of the renowned academicians and professors who have worked hard for the university over the years, and laying foundation stones to a number of historical buildings at the university.
Both Katunguka and Baryamureeba are among eight candidates contesting for the post of vice chancellor at Makerere.
