Editor
Justice Frederick Martin Stephen Egonda-Ntende and Betty Oyella Bigombe were honored with honorary Doctor of Laws degrees from Makerere University during the initial day of the 74th Graduation Ceremony. Prof. Leif Abrahamsson also received an honorary Doctor of Science during the event. The ceremony, held at Freedom Square, conferred a total of 1,400 degrees to graduates from the Colleges of Natural Sciences, Health Sciences, and the School of Law.
The breakdown of degrees awarded included 132 PhDs, 1,585 Masters, 156 Postgraduate Diplomas, 11,016 Undergraduate Degrees, and 24 Undergraduate Diplomas across various genders.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, the academic registrar of Makerere University, mentioned that Bigombe and Justice Egonda-Ntende were approved by the university council for the honorary doctor of laws, honoris causa.
This prestigious award is the highest recognition given by the university and acknowledges exceptional contributions that have significantly benefited knowledge and society. Makerere University bestows this honor upon individuals of outstanding character whose accomplishments are extraordinary and inspiring.
Bigombe was lauded for her remarkable leadership, professional prowess, and human qualities, reflecting positively on Makerere University’s vision. Justice Egonda-Ntende was acknowledged for carrying out his judicial duties with humility, incorruptibility, and an unwavering commitment to justice and equality, as outlined in the judicial oath.
Prior to joining the Court of Appeal, he served as the Chief Justice of the Seychelles and played a key role in establishing an independent judiciary in East Timor. Additionally, Justice Egonda-Ntende lectured law at Makerere University and served in various capacities, including as a judge for the United Nations Mission in Kosovo.
