General
Mak Bids Farewell to the old University Council
Bidding farewell, for most, is usually a sad affair. However, on this particular night, it was a time for appreciation and celebration! The Makerere University community came together on 11th January, 2011 to bid fare thee well to the outgoing Council that has served Makerere for the last four years.
Bidding farewell, for most, is usually a sad affair. However, on this particular night, it was a time for appreciation and celebration! The Makerere University community came together on 11th January, 2011 to bid fare thee well to the outgoing Council that has served Makerere for the last four years.
Praises filled the air as speaker after speaker commended the outgoing council for a job well done. And their response, words of encouragement and wisdom to the new council members.
“We are expecting a lot from you, especially in the area of policy. We are ready to work under your guidance.” Prof. Baryamureeba said to the new Council members, as he made his brief remarks.
In her personal reflection, Mrs. Christine Kiganda, the Vice Chairperson of the Makerere University Council (2002- 2010) confessed that her eight year tenure had been a profound experience that greatly changed the lives of her family. “It has touched and formed us so fundamentally that we will never be the same again.” Mrs. Kiganda emotionally highlighted.
Mrs. Kiganda confessed that she has lived through periods of both student unrest in the earlier years and the relative calm experienced today. Through close interaction with the students, Mrs. Kiganda’s experience has led her to understand that the majority of the students were genuinely struggling to understand and resolve issues at the university, all along being tempered by negative adult forces in the wider society.
“I would agree with bringing the students into all important forums and giving them hands on training in running their own and institutional affairs.” Mrs. Kiganda recommended.
The high profile affair was graced by some of Uganda’s influential personalities such as the Governor Bank of Uganda, the Southern Sudan Ambassador to Uganda, the University Secretary Busitema University, former Vice Chancellors and Deputy Vice Chancellors , Deans and Directors of Makerere University, among others.
In his speech, the former Makerere University Council Chairperson Hon. Matthew Rukikaire confidently assured the gathering that he believes that in repositioning the role of Makerere University in society, Makerere will no longer only be known as the ivory tower but as a university of learning and research whose products are delivered to promote the wellbeing of the country. He also challenged the university staff to move out and address real social issues, demand from government to be heard and play a role in government programmes.
“I have got no doubt that this new group is going to push forward Makerere, especially at a time when we, the former Council, have created stability and a better relationship with government and as Makerere now goes out to play a role with the extended society,” Hon. Rukikaire added.
In his first speech, the incoming Council Chairperson Eng. Dr. Charles Wana- Etyem praised his predecessor; Hon. Mathew Rukikaire for being a brilliant team leader and consensus builder. “It was indeed a privilege to serve with him in the previous council, but a greater privilege is for me to succeed him as the Chairman. I hope I will fit in his very large shoes,” Dr. Wana-Etyem remarked.
The new council consists of highly qualified men and women; the composition reflects a diversity of expertise and experience. There are members that bring on board the traditions of the 1960s like Mr. Stephen Maloba, members of the “dot com” era like Bruce Kabasa, among others. This rich composition will surely bring about a smooth and mature policy formulation and decision-making process.
Representing the Ministry of Education and Sports, Ms. Elizabeth Gabona deeply appreciated the efforts of the former University Council. “Thank you for loving Makerere and doing your very best!” She also thanked Makerere staff and the student body for the support they have given the council over throughout their term.
The Guest of Honour, Rt. Hon. Prime Minister, Apolo Nsibambi, while quoting Section 40 of the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, explained that the University Council is the supreme organ of the university and is therefore responsible for the overall administration of the university, and ensuring that the university duly implements its objects and functions. He thereafter commended the outgoing council for doing an excellent job.
“Your outgoing Council has registered many achievements as we have heard tonight. These achievements demonstrate no more than a vision, collective work and focused leadership of the Rukikaire-Kiganda led Council,” Prof. Nsibambi added.
The Makerere Community is confident that the new University Council will carry on with this legacy, as they take Makerere to even greater heights. The incoming Deputy Chairperson Council Dr. Katherine Namuddu in moving a vote of thanks commended the Office of the Vice Chancellor and the University Secretary Mr. David Kahundha Muhwezi, for successfully organising the colourful event. Mr. Muhwezi is also Secretary to the University Council.
Downloads
Reflections on two terms as Vice Chairperson: Mrs Christine Kiganda MS Word Version, PDFVersion, Postscript Version
Hon. Matthew Rukikaire's address: MS Word Version, PDFVersion, Postscript Version
Eng. Dr. Charles Wana Etyem's Inaugural address: MS Word Version, PDFVersion, Postscript Version
The Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Apolo Nsibambi's address: PDFVersion, Postscript Version
Article by Moreen Katushabe
General
NCBA Commits UGX 1.45 Billion to Makerere Marathon, Pledges Five-Year Support for Inclusive Education
By Eve Nakyanzi and Atwenda Nancy
Makerere University has officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the platinum sponsor for the 2025 Makerere University Marathon (#MakRun2025), marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable student support. The partnership was formally announced during a colourful event held at the university, attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund, and NCBA Bank Uganda CEO, Mr. Mark Muyobo.
NCBA Bank Uganda’s UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship over the next five years is the largest corporate contribution to the Makerere Marathon to date. It underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting quality education, community development, and equity. Mr. Muyobo said that, “We are driven by the desire to leave every community better than we found it”. He added that the goal is to empower disadvantaged students to live without limitations, describing this initiative as a bold stride toward establishing a world-class international marathon.
“This is more than just a sponsorship, it is a strategic partnership built on shared values,” Dr. Kigozi remarked. “With this support, we are positioned to establish a fully equipped Disability Support Unit and a sustainable pool of funds to assist economically disadvantaged students.”
The marathon, slated under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future,” seeks to unify students, alumni, corporate entities, and professional athletes in pursuit of a common cause. At its core, the MakRun2025 promotes active lifestyles, social inclusion, and a sense of communal responsibility.
“It’s not just a race,” Prof. Nawangwe emphasized. “It is a movement to break barriers, change lives, and build a resilient, inclusive university.”
The marathon’s broader impact includes fundraising for students living with disabilities and those facing financial hardship, contributing directly to the university’s Endowment Fund.
A major highlight of the event is the introduction of a full 42.2-kilometer marathon—bringing international standards to the annual run. Organizers have promised a professional, accredited experience with traffic-free routes and ample support for runners.
“This edition will elevate the MakRun into a world-class event,” said Mr. Muyobo. “We are proud to support Makerere University in realizing its dream of a globally recognized marathon that reflects Uganda’s commitment to education and inclusivity.”
Beyond the race itself, the event will feature a vibrant line-up of activities, including music, drama, and games for all age groups. It is designed to foster a festival-like atmosphere that welcomes every member of the community.
Organizers and university leaders have extended an open invitation to students, staff, alumni, corporate partners, and Kampala residents to participate, cheer, or donate to the cause.
“Every step taken is a step towards hope for a student,” Dr. Kigozi stated. “Together, we are building a Makerere that cares, includes, and uplifts.”
The partnership is expected to significantly enhance the university’s ability to support underprivileged students and improve campus infrastructure for students with disabilities. It also sets the tone for future collaborations that align with the values of compassion, excellence, and innovation. The fifth edition of the MakRun is scheduled to take place on August 17th, 2025.
The Writers are Interns in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University
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