In a powerful commencement address delivered at Makerere University on 13 January 2025, Professor Puleng LenkaBula, the Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of South Africa (Unisa), celebrated the strength, leadership, and resilience of African women in shaping the continent's future.
The occasion marked the 75th graduation ceremony of Uganda’s oldest and largest institution of higher learning, a site that has consistently emerged as a beacon of academic excellence in East Africa.
LenkaBula expressed her gratitude to Makerere University’s Chancellor, Dr Crispus Walter Kiyonga, Vice-Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, and Chairperson Lorna Magara for their invitation to address the gathering. In her opening remarks, she highlighted the deep-rooted connections between Unisa and Makerere University, noting both institutions have provided over a century of educational contributions while playing pivotal roles during the anti-colonial and post-colonial eras in Africa.
After paying homage to Makerere’s illustrious scholars, LenkaBula shifted focus to a theme of memory and remembrance, which resonated particularly with the numerous women graduates present. Drawing from the profound words of author Toni Morrison, she remarked, “Memory is a constant struggle against forgetting,” reminding the graduates of their role in constructing narratives of society, heritage, and future aspirations.
“The African woman has always been resilient,” said LenkaBula, her voice echoing in the packed auditorium as graduates applauded enthusiastically. She referenced notable female figures in history — royalty, political leaders, and activists — whose contributions to the anti-colonial struggles should serve as inspiration for contemporary youth.
Professor Puleng LenkaBula, Unisa Principal and Vice-Chancellor, delivering the commencement address at Makerere University’s 75th graduation ceremony. Picture: Supplied
Addressing the newly graduated cohort, she urged them to consider their academic achievements as stepping stones toward contributing to a continent that desperately needs skilled leaders and professionals. “As you move into the world, grounded in your communities with a global outlook, embrace your generational mission,” she encouraged. “You are the new generation that must help realise the African Renaissance.”
In closing, LenkaBula's message was clear: the world is waiting for the graduates to harness their education, redefine their worth, and engage meaningfully with their communities. It was a call to action for the next wave of leaders — to cultivate knowledge and skillsets that will empower and uplift not only themselves but the entirety of Africa.
