Makerere University
Uganda's oldest university, a historic academic hub and research powerhouse in East Africa, known for its legacy and vibrant campus life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Witness academic triumph
Makerere University
Best Time
Witness academic triumph
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Uganda's oldest university, a historic academic hub and research powerhouse in East Africa, known for its legacy and vibrant campus life.
"Makerere University does not hand you a diploma and send you on your way. It imprints on your soul."
📚 Embrace the Legacy
Feel the history in the Main Building and Freedom Square. It's an inspiring place!
🤝 Network Actively
Connect with students from diverse backgrounds; it's a great learning opportunity.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Ivory Tower
Main Building
Walk through history in the iconic Main Building, a symbol of academic legacy and inspiration.
Freedom Square
Central Campus
Experience the heart of student life and discourse at Freedom Square, where ideas and protests come alive.
Jacaranda Blooms
Campus Grounds
Witness the breathtaking beauty of the campus, especially during the purple bloom of the jacaranda trees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Legacy
Navigating Campus Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📚 Embrace the Legacy
Feel the history in the Main Building and Freedom Square. It's an inspiring place!
🤝 Network Actively
Connect with students from diverse backgrounds; it's a great learning opportunity.
⏰ Be Patient with Admin
Administrative processes can be slow. Plan ahead and be patient.
🎓 Attend Events
Join lectures, skills fests, and cultural events for a richer experience. 
Tips
from all over the internet
📚 Embrace the Legacy
Feel the history in the Main Building and Freedom Square. It's an inspiring place!
🤝 Network Actively
Connect with students from diverse backgrounds; it's a great learning opportunity.
⏰ Be Patient with Admin
Administrative processes can be slow. Plan ahead and be patient.
🎓 Attend Events
Join lectures, skills fests, and cultural events for a richer experience.
🌳 Enjoy the Greenery
The campus is beautiful and green, perfect for a stroll.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Makerere University is celebrated as a prestigious academic institution with a rich legacy and vibrant campus life, often called the 'Harvard of Africa.' While praised for its academic rigor and diverse environment, some visitors note administrative delays and overcrowding. Despite challenges, it's considered a defining and unforgettable experience for many.
"the best university of east africa unfortunally makerere don't accept a student from congo that the bad side of makerere but i really love the athmosphere of the university and has a congolese i really want to join this university"
Narcisse Sadiki
"Makerere University, established in 1922, is Uganda’s oldest and most prestigious university. Located in Kampala, it has earned a reputation as a leading academic and research hub in East Africa, attracting students from across the continent and beyond.
#### Strengths:
1. Academic Excellence & Reputation
- Makerere is ranked among the top universities in Africa, known for strong programs in Medicine, Law, Engineering, Business, Social Sciences, and Agriculture.
- Its alumni include prominent leaders, scholars, and professionals globally.
2. Diverse & Vibrant Campus Life
- The university offers a multicultural environment with students from over 40 countries.
- Active student guild, clubs, and societies foster leadership and talent development.
3. Research & Innovation
- Makerere is a research powerhouse, contributing to advancements in health, technology, and agriculture.
- Partnerships with global institutions enhance opportunities for students and faculty.
4. Historic & Expansive Campus
- The lush, green campus provides a conducive learning environment with libraries, lecture halls, and recreational spaces.
- Iconic landmarks like the Freedom Square and Main Building add to its prestige.
5. Affordable Education (Compared to Private Universities)
- While fees have risen, Makerere remains more affordable than many private universities in Uganda.
#### Areas for Improvement:
1. Administrative Delays & Bureaucracy
- Students often report slow processes in registration, exam results, and administrative services.
2. Overcrowding & Limited Facilities
- High student numbers strain lecture halls, hostels, and library spaces.
- Some facilities (labs, hostels) need modernization.
3. Occasional Strikes & Unrest
- Staff strikes over pay and student protests sometimes disrupt the academic calendar.
4. Limited Financial Aid & Scholarships
- Many students struggle with tuition, and scholarship opportunities are competitive.
#### Final Verdict:
Makerere University remains a symbol of academic prestige in Africa, offering quality education, research opportunities, and a vibrant student experience. While it faces challenges like bureaucracy and overcrowding, its legacy and contributions to Uganda’s development are unmatched.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Recommended for students seeking a reputable, affordable, and intellectually stimulating university experience in East Africa.
Tip: If admitted, engage in research, networking, and extracurriculars to maximize your time at "The Harvard of Africa.""
LUBANGA STANLEY KIMERA
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Not Just a University, It's an Era of Your Life.
To call Makerere University my "alma mater" feels too simple, too clinical. Makerere is not just the institution that gave me a degree; it is the crucible that forged my character
1. The Weight of History and The Breath of Legacy:
Walking through the iconic Ivory Tower,past the grand, old trees and the historic Main Building, you are not just a student—you are a thread in a rich tapestry. You sit in lecture theatres where future presidents, Nobel laureates, and literary giants like Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o once sat. This sense of legacy is not oppressive; it is inspiring. It whispers to you that you, too, have a contribution to make.
2. Academic Rigor That Shapes Minds:
The"Harvard of Africa" moniker wasn't earned by chance. The academics are challenging, often demanding your absolute best. You will have lecturers who are titans in their fields, who will push you to question everything and to defend your ideas with passion and evidence. You don't just memorize facts here; you learn how to think, debate, and synthesize knowledge. The education you receive is robust, respected across the continent and the world.
3. The Unforgettable Campus Life:
Makerere's campus is a microcosm of East Africa.It is a beautiful, rolling landscape of green lawns, red-roofed buildings, and the famous purple bloom of the jacaranda trees. But its true beauty lies in its vibrant, sometimes chaotic, life.
· Freedom Square: The historic debating ground where ideas, politics, and protests come to life. It’s where you learn the power of your voice.
· The Makerere University Guest House: The unofficial hub for the best rolex (a Ugandan street food delicacy) and late-night conversations that solve all the world's problems.
· Hall Culture: Living in a hall of residence (like Lumumba, Mitchell, or Mary Stuart) is an experience unto itself. The camaraderie, the rivalries, the late-night study sessions, and the vibrant cultural events foster a sense of brotherhood and sisterhood that lasts a lifetime.
4. A Melting Pot of Cultures:
You will meet people from every corner of Uganda,from every walk of life, and from across the African continent and beyond. This diversity is your greatest teacher. You learn new languages, understand different perspectives, and form friendships that break all tribal and national barriers. Your worldview will expand exponentially.
The "Makerere Flavor" - The Realistic Bits:
Yes, it's not all pristine. You will face challenges—bureaucratic hurdles, crowded lecture rooms, and the occasional power outage. But these are not flaws; they are part of the curriculum. They teach you resilience, patience, and the uniquely African skill of navigating complexity with a smile. It's in these moments that you learn the most about yourself and the resourceful spirit of the people around you.
Final Verdict:
Makerere University does not hand you a diploma and send you on your way. It imprints on your soul. It gives you a world-class education, but more importantly, it gives you confidence, a critical mind, and an unshakeable network of brilliant, ambitious friends.
It is demanding, it is chaotic, it is beautiful, and it is utterly unforgettable. It was, without a single doubt, the most defining chapter of my youth. It is more than a university; it is my first love, my toughest teacher, and my proudest title: A Makererean.
If you have the privilege to walk through its gates, embrace every single moment. You will carry it with you forever.
Regards,
Keneth Namanya, a Gentleman ( living stone hall) CoBams graduate - BBA class of 2017."
Keneth Namanya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Entebbe International Airport (EBB), you can take a taxi or a pre-booked shuttle to Makerere University in Kampala. The journey typically takes 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic. Ride-sharing apps are also available in Kampala.
Within Kampala, you can use taxis or 'boda-bodas' (motorcycle taxis) to reach Makerere University. Look for public minibuses (matatus) heading towards Makerere or Wandegeya, which is near the university.
Yes, there are many hostels and rental apartments in areas surrounding Makerere University, such as Wandegeya and Kikoni. It's advisable to explore these options upon arrival or through university resources.
The campus is quite large. You can walk between most buildings, or use campus taxis and boda-bodas for longer distances. Familiarize yourself with the campus map upon arrival.
The iconic Ivory Tower (Main Building) is a prominent landmark visible from a distance. The surrounding areas of Wandegeya and Mulago are also good indicators of your proximity to the university.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Makerere University is an active educational institution. While the campus is generally accessible, specific events like graduation ceremonies or public lectures may require registration or tickets.
The university campus is generally open during daylight hours for visitors. However, access to specific buildings or facilities might be restricted outside of academic or official hours.
There are typically no fees for simply walking around the public areas of the Makerere University campus. However, specific events or tours might incur charges.
You can check the official Makerere University website, their social media pages, or local event listings for information on public lectures, festivals, and other campus activities.
Access to the main university library is usually restricted to registered students and staff. However, some libraries might have visitor policies or specific reading rooms available for a fee. It's best to inquire directly with the library.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the historic Main Building (Ivory Tower), Freedom Square, and the beautiful, green campus grounds, especially when the jacaranda trees are in bloom.
The atmosphere is vibrant, diverse, and intellectually stimulating. It's a place where history meets modern academic pursuits, with a strong sense of community and legacy.
Absolutely! The Main Building, often referred to as the Ivory Tower, is a significant architectural landmark. The entire campus is steeped in history, with many older buildings contributing to its unique character.
You might witness student guild events, club activities, debates at Freedom Square, and various academic seminars or workshops. Graduation ceremonies are particularly lively events.
Yes, the campus offers many picturesque spots, from the historic architecture to the lush greenery and vibrant student life. The jacaranda trees in bloom are a particular highlight.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are numerous canteens and cafeterias within the university offering affordable meals. The surrounding areas, especially Wandegeya, are packed with local eateries and street food vendors selling popular items like 'rolex'.
You must try the 'rolex' (a chapati rolled with an omelet and vegetables), which is a very popular Ugandan street food. Other local dishes include matoke (steamed bananas) and various stews.
While most eateries cater to local tastes, you can find a variety of options. Many campus canteens offer diverse menus, and some restaurants in Kampala might offer international cuisine.
Meals on campus are generally very affordable, often ranging from a few thousand Ugandan Shillings. Street food like rolex is also budget-friendly.
The Makerere University Guest House area is known for good local food and a relaxed atmosphere. Wandegeya also has several small restaurants and cafes catering to students.
📸 📸 Photography
The Main Building (Ivory Tower), Freedom Square, and the tree-lined avenues, especially during the jacaranda bloom, offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful natural light. Golden hour can be particularly stunning for capturing the architecture and greenery.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, for professional shoots or commercial purposes, it's advisable to seek permission from the university administration.
Graduation photoshoots are very popular, capturing the celebratory mood. Many also take photos documenting campus life, architecture, and the natural beauty of the grounds.
It's always respectful to ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially students. During events like graduations, it's more common for people to be photographed as part of the crowd.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more engaging experience for younger visitors, consider visiting during public events like the NTV Youth Skills Fest, which might have broader appeal, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere during graduation ceremonies from a distance. Be mindful of the academic environment and avoid disrupting classes or official university functions.
🎓 Aspiring Students
Embrace the diverse campus life, engage with student clubs, and utilize the university's research facilities. Be aware of potential administrative delays and plan accordingly. The experience at Makerere is often described as transformative, providing not just a degree but also resilience and a strong network.
🌍 International Visitors
Engage with the diverse student body to gain new perspectives. While administrative processes might differ from what you're accustomed to, patience and proactive communication are key. The university's reputation and academic offerings make it a significant destination for those seeking quality education in East Africa.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Makerere University
This rich history is palpable on campus, from the grand old trees to the lecture halls where influential figures once debated. The university fosters a sense of belonging and pride, with alumni often referring to their time there as a defining chapter in their lives. This deep connection is celebrated during events like the 75th graduation ceremony, which highlights the continuous cycle of academic achievement and future leadership.
+1The university's commitment to research and innovation continues to shape advancements in health, technology, and agriculture, solidifying its reputation as a leading academic and research hub. Its influence extends far beyond Uganda, impacting the intellectual and developmental landscape of the entire African continent.
Campus Life and Culture
Living in a hall of residence, such as Lumumba or Mary Stuart, is an integral part of the Makerere experience, fostering deep camaraderie, lifelong friendships, and a strong sense of community. These halls are not just places to live but vibrant centers of cultural exchange and social interaction. The university also hosts a variety of clubs, societies, and events, including the NTV Youth Skills Fest, providing students with ample opportunities to develop their talents and leadership skills.
The university is a melting pot of cultures, attracting students from across Uganda and over 40 countries. This diversity is a significant asset, broadening students' perspectives and fostering an environment of mutual understanding and learning. While administrative processes can sometimes be challenging, the overall campus experience is described as unforgettable, chaotic, beautiful, and deeply formative.
Academic Excellence and Reputation
The faculty comprises distinguished scholars and experts who are leaders in their respective fields, pushing students to think critically, engage in debate, and defend their ideas with evidence. This challenging academic environment ensures that graduates are well-prepared for their future careers and equipped with the skills to tackle complex problems. The university's alumni network is extensive and influential, featuring prominent leaders, Nobel laureates, and renowned professionals worldwide.
Beyond classroom learning, Makerere is a significant research institution, contributing to advancements in critical areas like health, technology, and agriculture. Partnerships with international institutions further enhance research opportunities and provide students with global exposure. This dedication to both teaching and research solidifies Makerere's position as a leading center for intellectual development and innovation in Africa.
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