Makerere University marked its 76th graduation ceremony with a momentous occasion, awarding honorary doctorates to two distinguished leaders whose work has significantly impacted Africa and Uganda’s development sectors.
On this landmark day, Ms. Reeta Roy, First President of the Mastercard Foundation, was conferred with an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of her visionary leadership and commitment to empowering African youth.
Dr. Roy has championed initiatives that enable young people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to access higher education, secure meaningful employment, and pursue entrepreneurship opportunities.
“..the Chancellor of Makerere University conferred an honorary Doctor of Laws degree on Reeta Roy. She was recognised because of the immense work she has done in empowering African youth from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to access higher education and get gainful employment,” said Barnabas Nawangwe. “Thank you, Reeta, for your great service to humanity.”
In her remarks, Dr. Roy expressed deep gratitude for the recognition. “I am so honoured, so humbled to have the opportunity to become part of your family at Makerere University. You are a historic institution, and I will treasure this moment. I will do my best to live up to the values that you have set for all of us,” she said.
The ceremony also celebrated Mr. Japheth Katto, Corporate Governance Consultant and Company Director, as he received an honorary doctorate for his lifetime contributions to Uganda’s financial sector. Mr. Katto serves as Chairman of JKC Consulting Group, Board Member of the Bank of Uganda, and International Valuation Standards Council.
In formally accepting the honour, he stated that he “accepts the award of Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa) of Makerere University” and described his life’s mission as one focused on making a difference — underscoring that “in whatever you do, people are watching.”
He used his address to urge graduates to uphold integrity and professional excellence, telling them that whether in boardrooms or daily work, integrity should guide their careers.
“Whether you are balancing a ledger or chairing a board, your work is your signature,” he said, noting that one will reap what one sows even if the harvest may come many years later. Katto also encouraged the Class of 2026 to guard their values and embrace networking as they entered the professional world.
“Warmest congratulations to Mr. Japheth Katto, an esteemed Member of our Board of Directors, upon being conferred with a honorary Doctorate by Makerere University! This prestigious honour recognises his distinguished service in corporate leadership and his enduring contributions to Uganda’s financial sector. His unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and national development continues to inspire the institution and the broader financial community,” the Bank of Uganda said in a statement.
The dual conferral highlights Makerere University’s tradition of honouring transformative leaders who advance education, economic development, and corporate governance in Africa.
Both Dr. Roy and Mr. Katto join a legacy of changemakers whose work continues to shape the continent’s social and financial landscape.