Makerere University is Uganda's premier institution of higher learning. Established in the capital city Kampala in 1922 as a technical school, Makerere University now is one of the oldest, most prestigious and largest universities in East and Central Africa. In January 1922 the school (later renamed Uganda Technical College), opened its doors to 14 daystudents who began studying carpentry, building and mechanics. The college soon was able to offer various other courses in medical care, agriculture, veterinary sciences and teacher training. Expanding over the years, in 1935 it became a Center for Higher Education in East Africa. In 1937, the college began to developinto an institution of higher education, offering post-school certificate courses. In 1949, it became a University College, affiliated with the University College of London. In 1963 it became the University of East Africa, and as a result the special relationship with the University of London came to an end. From then on degrees of the University of East Africa were instituted. On July 1, 1970, Makerere became an independent national university of the Republic of Uganda, offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses leading to its own degree awards.

Today Makerere University has 22 faculties, institutes and schools offering day, evening and external study programs to a student body of about 30,000 undergraduates and 3,000 postgraduates from both Uganda and abroad. It also is a very active center for research.

Country fact file
26.4m people live in Uganda. Per capita income is estimated at $1,400, with 35% living below the poverty line. Literacy stands at 70%.