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Digitise academic records to curb corruption, Makerere convocation urges

Makerere University staff, parents and some of the graduates pose for a photo at the convocation recently. Photo | Noeline Nabukenya

What you need to know:

  • According to the chairperson of the convocation, Mr George Mugabi Turyamureba, digitisation will enable students to access their academic transcripts and certificates remotely

Makerere University convocation leaders are pushing for the digitisation of academic records to combat corruption and forgery of academic documents.

According to the chairperson of the convocation, Mr George Mugabi Turyamureba, digitisation will enable students to access their academic transcripts and certificates remotely.

"We have registered cases of forgery of academic documents, and this is largely due to the physical presence required to obtain certified copies of transcripts," Turyamureba said. He noted that this physical contact between staff and students creates opportunities for corruption, as students are often unsure whether their documents are ready, leading to bribery.

He emphasised that employers typically request certified academic copies before hiring, and having these documents online would facilitate access.

"Employers usually ask for certified academic copies before recruitment of employees, and if we have them online, they can be accessed at any time," he added.

The convocation has also advocated for early processing of academic certificates, allowing students to graduate with all necessary documents.

Prof. Umar Kakumba, Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academics, revealed that the university has already digitised most of its records, enabling students to access their results online. However, a system for academic transcripts and certificates is still in development.

"What we have done is develop a database through the Makerere Endowment Fund, which will list all Makerere alumni from 1922. If an employer or an institution wants to verify if the person is a graduate of Makerere, they can check on the list," he said.

The university's efforts to digitize its records are part of a broader strategy to improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability.

In the past, graduates of Makerere University had to wait a little longer after graduation to pick their academic documents.