Makerere University Digital Leap
Makerere University has taken a decisive step into a digital future, replacing its traditional manual academic certification process with a fully automated system. This significant overhaul, announced on May 29, 2025, marks the beginning of a broader digital transformation initiative designed to enhance efficiency, security, and accessibility across the institution.
Automated Certification via MARS
Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Professor Buyinza Mukadasi, unveiled the new Makerere Academic Records System (MARS) during a press briefing. He characterized the shift away from paper-based certification as a critical solution to long-standing issues plaguing the old system. "For years, reliance on manual processing introduced risks of errors, significant delays, and inherent security vulnerabilities," Prof. Buyinza stated. "MARS terminates that era, providing a robust digital platform accessible worldwide."
The web-based system empowers alumni and current students to request and receive authenticated academic documents online, eliminating the need for physical campus visits. Prof. Buyinza emphasized that this digital approach guarantees greater accuracy and drastically reduces processing times. He also confirmed that the next phase will introduce instant digital verification capabilities for employers and other institutions.
Tracking Postgraduate Progress
Alongside MARS, Professor Buyinza announced the implementation of a Research Information Management System specifically for postgraduate programs. Highlighting past inefficiencies, he noted, "Lack of a dedicated tracking system has historically contributed to delays in postgraduate completion." Piloted successfully at the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, this system aims to enhance accountability, facilitate timely feedback for supervisors and students, and ultimately ensure master's and PhD candidates complete their programs within the expected timeframe.
Commitment to Inclusive Learning
Furthering its digital agenda, Makerere has rolled out inclusive e-learning infrastructure across most colleges. Developed with support from the Government of Uganda and development partners, these facilities include multimedia studios and smart classrooms. Prof. Buyinza stressed that these resources are engineered to create professional learning content accessible to all students, incorporating specialized tools for those with visual and auditory impairments. "Inclusive education is a cornerstone of Makerere's philosophy," he declared. "These advancements enable us to deliver equitable, globally competitive education."
AI Laboratory for National Development
Culminating the announcements was the launch of a state-of-the-art Artificial Intelligence laboratory at the College of Computing and Information Sciences. Prof. Buyinza positioned this facility as a hub for innovation directly addressing Uganda's socio-economic challenges. "This AI lab will pioneer the development of tailored solutions, including localized assistive e-learning tools and context-sensitive curriculum development," he explained. Recognizing AI as the driving force of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, he asserted Makerere's readiness to lead: "Artificial intelligence is pivotal for economic development. As a premier learning institution, we are setting the pace."
This suite of digital initiatives underscores Makerere University's commitment to modernizing its operations, enhancing research output, promoting inclusivity, and positioning itself at the forefront of technological advancement in African higher education.
