Makerere University

Makerere University was originally established as a technical school in 1922 and is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Africa. Initially offering courses in carpentry, building construction, and mechanics, it soon expanded to include medical courses in 1924. Over the decades, Makerere has grown to become a center of higher education in East and Central Africa, offering a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines, and playing a pivotal role in the education of African leaders.

In 1970, Makerere University became an independent national university of Uganda. This change was significant as it marked the severance of Makerere's ties with the University of East Africa, turning it into Uganda's premier institution for higher learning. It allowed Makerere to have full control over its administration and curriculum development, fostering a unique identity and expanding its influence in academia both regionally and internationally. This independence also reflected the broader trend of decolonization and the assertion of national identity in post-colonial Africa.

In early 1981, following the Uganda–Tanzania War, Tanzanian troops finally withdrew from Uganda, and Makerere University reopened after being closed for 8 months during the war. The reopening was crucial for the intellectual and social life at the university. The conflict had disrupted academic programs and the physical infrastructure of the institution, leading to challenges that would take time and effort to overcome. Recovery involved not only rebuilding the university's facilities but also restoring its academic reputation, which had suffered during the years of political turmoil.

In June 1989, Makerere University awarded its first Doctorate of Science in Agricultural Engineering. This event was notable as it underscored Makerere's commitment to advancing agricultural education and research, crucial for Uganda's primarily agrarian economy. The university's focus on developing agricultural sciences has helped improve agricultural practices and innovations, thus playing a critical role in addressing food security and rural development challenges in Uganda and beyond. The award signified Makerere's role in producing experts equipped to tackle real-world problems in agriculture.

In July 1998, Makerere University awarded its first Ph.D. in Computer Science, a significant milestone reflecting the university's development in advanced scientific fields. This achievement marked a pivotal moment in the expansion of Makerere's academic offerings and research capabilities in STEM disciplines. The establishment of a strong curriculum and research focus in Computer Science paved the way for the university to contribute significantly to technological education and innovation in Uganda and the African continent.

In April 2004, Makerere University introduced the Bachelor of Information Systems degree program, showcasing its commitment to meet the emerging demand for ICT professionals in Uganda. This program was crafted in response to the growing need for skilled individuals capable of managing and implementing complex information systems in corporate, government, and non-governmental organizations. The curriculum was designed to provide a robust foundation in both technical and managerial aspects of information technology, preparing graduates for various career paths in the information age.

September 2011 marked the 90th anniversary of Makerere University. The celebrations highlighted the university's growth from a small technical school to a leading higher education institution in Africa. Various events were conducted to commemorate this milestone, including conferences, public lectures, and exhibitions that showcased Makerere's achievements and contributions to society. These celebrations provided an opportunity to reflect on the university's history, celebrate its successes, and consider the challenges and opportunities for the future.

In November 2016, Makerere University was closed for three months following violent student protests over unpaid lecturer salaries and management issues. The university closure, ordered by President Yoweri Museveni, was a response to the escalating unrest that saw property destroyed and serious disruptions to academic activities. This event highlighted the ongoing challenge of financial instability facing one of Africa's leading academic institutions, and the need for comprehensive reforms to ensure its sustainability and better management of stakeholder interests.

In January 2020, a severe fire broke out at Makerere University, causing significant damage to the iconic Main Building, also known as the Ivory Tower. The fire destroyed key administrative records and offices, representing a substantial loss to the university's legacy and infrastructure. The incident prompted discussions about improving the safety and preservation of historical sites at educational institutions. Efforts to restore and rebuild have been supported locally and internationally, focusing on maintaining the architectural heritage while upgrading facilities for modern needs.

June 2021 marked a century since the founding of Makerere University. Celebrations took place both physically and virtually with the theme 'Leveraging 100 Years of Excellence in Building a Transformed Society'. Despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the university management emphasized the achievements made in research, education, and societal impact over the years. Various forums and discussions were held involving historians, alumni, and educators to reflect on the university's legacy and strategize its future endeavors to adapt to the changing educational landscape.