Makerere University has announced that its 76th graduation ceremony, scheduled for February 24th–27th, 2026, will feature the awarding of honorary degrees, including to Japheth Katto, a pioneering figure in Uganda’s financial sector.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe confirmed the announcement during a press conference on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, in the main building.
“We are proud to award honorary degrees to distinguished individuals who have contributed significantly to Uganda’s development. Japheth Katto has played a critical role in building the foundations of our capital markets and enhancing the country’s economic security,” he said.
Japheth Katto served as the first Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Capital Markets Authority (CMA) from its inception in 1996 until his retirement in December 2013.
Under his leadership, the CMA was established as the regulatory body for Uganda’s capital markets, laying the groundwork for stock market operations, investor protection, and market transparency.
Katto is widely recognised for his role in creating a robust and credible capital market environment, which continues to support Uganda’s economic growth. He was succeeded by Keith Kalyegira in January 2014.
Katto’s contributions to Uganda’s financial sector are unparalleled. From establishing regulatory frameworks to guiding the growth of capital markets, his legacy has strengthened the country’s economic infrastructure.
The 76th graduation ceremony will see 8,432 students graduate, including 185 PhDs, 2,034 Master’s degree holders, and 6,043 Bachelor’s degree recipients. The slightly smaller number compared to previous years is attributed to the impact of COVID-19, which disrupted some academic cohorts.
Academic Registrar Prof. Buyinza Mukasa assured the public that all transcripts are ready and have been distributed to college registrars for issuance. “Students can collect their transcripts from their respective colleges even before the ceremony,” he said.
Preparations are in full swing for the four-day ceremony, with graduation gowns available from February 2, 2026, at University Hall. Attendance will be strictly by invitation only, with two guests allowed per graduand, and security measures will be enforced, including multiple entry points and restrictions on prohibited items.
In addition to Katto, the ceremony will also recognise other outstanding individuals and highlight Makerere University’s legacy in shaping national leaders, including 12 alumni elected in the 2026 polls, such as Chancellor Dr. Kiyonga Crispus Walter, MP for Bukonzo West.
The graduation schedule is as follows:
• Feb 24: Law, CEES, CoCIS, CAES
• Feb 25: CoNAS, CoVAB, CHS, School of Public Health
• Feb 26: MUBS, CoBAMS
• Feb 27: CEDAT, CHUSS, IGDS, MISR
