The Centennial Exhibition marking 100 years of Makerere University College of Health Sciences (MakCHS) opened on 8th December 2025 at the Sir Albert Cook Library, Mulago Hill. The exhibition will run until 16th January 2026, and is open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM. The launch event drew staff, students, alumni, and partners.
The exhibition highlights MakCHS’s rich history, milestones, and contributions since its founding in 1924. Visitors can explore archival photographs, rare documents, memorabilia from the college’s early years, historical artefacts, research outputs and innovations, equipment formerly used in training or service delivery, and other materials of historical significance.
MakCHS is marking a century of excellence in health professions education, research, and service under the theme: “Celebrating a Century of Excellence, Shaping the Future.”
Speaking at the opening, Assoc. Professor Richard Idro, Deputy Principal of MakCHS, welcomed guests and thanked them for honouring the invitation. He highlighted the various activities held so far, including dialogues, a run, a public lecture, and the IDI Science Fair, as part of the centennial celebrations. He reminded attendees that the celebrations will culminate on 6th March 2026 with a centennial commemoration event and dinner, during which a fundraising drive to expand the Davies Lecture Theatre will be launched.
In his remarks, Assoc. Professor David Meya, Chairperson of the MakCHS100 Celebrations Organising Committee, expressed gratitude for the support from the College leadership and the dedication of the organising committee. He emphasised the importance of alumni engagement, noting, “It is my hope that the engagements initiated during the centennial celebrations will strengthen alumni linkage going forward, and lay plans for the next 100 years.”
Assoc. Professor Meya further reminded the audience that the ongoing fundraising efforts aim to support infrastructure development at MakCHS, starting with the expansion of the Davies Lecture Theatre. He also thanked the partners who have supported the college during the journey. He encouraged all stakeholders to give generously and spread the message.
Assoc. Professor Alison Kinengyere, College Librarian and Head of the Sir Albert Cook Library, thanked all in attendance for gracing the opening. She encouraged them to publicise the exhibition, which will remain open until 16th January 2026. She appreciated the support of the College leadership, organising committee, and recognised Mr. George Kizza for his tireless efforts in bringing the exhibition to life.
Professor Willy Washington Anokbonggo, Professor Emeritus in the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, reflected on the College’s journey since its humble beginnings in 1924. He recounted the challenges faced during Uganda’s turbulent decades, including faculty who went into exile, those who stayed, and those who lost their lives. He noted that many who had left eventually returned to help rebuild the College. “The journey of MakCHS shows the resilience and commitment of the staff and students who have contributed to development not only in Uganda, but beyond,” he remarked.
MakCHS Management invites staff, students, alumni, well-wishers, and the general public to visit the exhibition and take part in commemorating this proud moment in the history of MakCHS and Makerere University.
