KAMPALA, Uganda- The Australian Alumni Association of Uganda (A3-U), in partnership with Makerere University and the Australian High Commission, hosted a high-level AU-UG @60 commemorative lecture and exhibition where stakeholders discussed pertinent diplomatic and development-related issues beneficial to the two sister countries.
The event was hosted by Makerere University in Kampala under the theme “Australia–Uganda at 60: A Legacy of Partnerships and a Shared Vision.” It brought together more than 120 stakeholders, including leaders from government, academia, civil society, the private sector, the media, and the alumni community, to reflect on achievements and explore new frontiers of collaboration.
H.E. Amb. Mull Sebujja Katende, the Chief Executive Officer of MSK Consult (EA) and former Uganda Ambassador to Ethiopia and to the United States, delivered a keynote address centered on development cooperation and other topical issues.
The Australian High Commissioner to Uganda, based in Nairobi, Kenya, H.E. Jenny Da Rin, highlighted the strong relationship Uganda and Australia have enjoyed over the last six decades. She noted that her government would further open opportunities in trade and investment, education, mining, and research exchange programs for the benefit of the people of both countries.
Uganda’s High Commissioner to Australia and Pacific countries, H.E. Dorothy Hyuha, commended the strong diplomatic relations between the two nations, noting that Uganda would continue to expand investment opportunities for its citizens to explore strategic business prospects available in Australia.
The Honorary Consul of the Australian Consulate in Uganda, H.E. David Mpanga, urged Ugandans to take advantage of the numerous trade and investment opportunities and to fight poverty. He especially encouraged parents to support their children in pursuing higher education so they can become professionals of character and purpose.
Both Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the Chairperson of Council, Lorna Magara, expressed appreciation for the various programs extended to the university by the Australian government and individual universities. They noted that these programs have greatly enriched Makerere’s research and innovation initiatives and have significantly advanced the university’s research and development agenda.
A3-U Chairperson Patrick Karugaba said the alumni body continues to grow from strength to strength. He encouraged all alumni who are not yet active members to join and contribute to the country’s development agenda through participation in economic empowerment programs.
Background
Uganda and Australia share a historic bond strengthened through educational diplomacy, trade and investment, research collaboration, and capacity building. Thousands of Ugandan professionals who studied in Australia now serve in leadership positions across various sectors, embodying the strong bilateral ties between the two nations.
The commemorative event sought to celebrate the achievements and impact of AU-UG cooperation over 60 years, as well as to set the stage for new partnerships in education, innovation, and trade. It also aimed to build stronger networks among alumni, institutions, and enterprises to inspire the next generation of leaders through shared success stories and future-focused dialogue.
