On March 21, the Makerere University community welcomed a new era of student leadership as Ssentamu Churchill James was inaugurated as the 91^st Guild President. The ceremony gathered students, faculty, parents, and dignitaries, marking a significant moment in the university’s history.

In his inaugural address, Ssentamu expressed gratitude, stating, “It’s been God’s grace all through.” He acknowledged the vital support of his family and mentors, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in leadership. “We have been entrusted with the responsibility to bring political, social, and academic salvation,” he declared, emphasizing his commitment to restoring Makerere’s status as Africa’s premier higher education institution.

Reflecting on his campaign, Churchill credited his team, stating, “I am no one without my team,” and dedicated his victory to every student aspiring for a better Makerere. He underscored that students are the foundation of his cabinet, stating, “Those students are our bosses,” and called for unity and resilience among fellow leaders as they prepare to tackle challenges ahead.

The ceremony also included the swearing-in of Guild Representative Councilors from various colleges and Halls of Residence, culminating in the inauguration of Ssentamu and the Vice Guild President.

The outgoing Guild President, H.E. Lubega Vincent Nsamba, shared insights from his tenure, highlighting the importance of building harmonious relationships and the value of collaboration in solving challenges. He quoted theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer on the dangers of ignorance and urged new leaders to actively engage with the university’s governance structures.

Nsamba linked his faith to leadership, encouraging his successors to seek divine guidance and reflecting on his administration’s efforts to foster a good working relationship with university management. He congratulated Churchill and wished him success in his term.

Professor Buyinza Mukadasi, speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, expressed joy in welcoming the new leadership and emphasized that this was the time to chart a new leadership journey. He acknowledged all election participants and praised the peaceful transition of leadership, encouraging the new guild members to embrace dedication, humility, and adherence to university regulations.

“As students of Makerere University first and foremost, aim for academic excellence,” Mukadasi advised, highlighting the importance of dialogue with university management. He officially commissioned the new government, expressing optimism for their future contributions and collaboration. He called on them to embrace dialogue with the university administration.

Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, Dean of Students acknowledged the departing President, Vincent Lubega Nsamba, for his efforts in enhancing student life and congratulated Churchill on his election, encouraging him to uphold values of inclusivity and diversity.

“As we celebrate this transition, let us reaffirm our commitment to fostering a supportive campus environment,” Kabumbuli urged, emphasizing the need for collaboration in creating a conducive learning atmosphere.

As the inauguration drew to a close, the Makerere University community looked forward to a promising future under President Ssentamu’s leadership.

Makerere University is pleased to announce 190 Undergraduate and 11 Master’s Scholarships for Ugandan Nationals, Refugees, Students with Disabilities, Internally displaced young people, and International students joining Makerere University (main campus) in the Academic Year 2025/2026 under the Private Sponsorship Scheme.

Eligibility: To be eligible to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University‘s main campus, an applicant must belong to one of the following categories: Ugandan nationals, refugees, students with disabilities, internally displaced young people, or international students and fulfil the following conditions.

1. Applicants for Undergraduate Degree Programmes

1. The applicant must have applied for admission to Makerere University‘s main campus under the private sponsorship scheme for the academic year 2025/2026.
2. The Applicant must have either;
   • Completed their advanced secondary level education (or its equivalent) in an African country or
   • Hold second class/credit diploma from any recognized institution or
   • Must have passed the mature age entry examinations of Makerere University for the Years 2023 and 2024.
3. The Applicant should be experiencing financial hardships.
4. The Applicant should not be a holder of any other scholarship, including the Government of Uganda Scholarship.
5. The Applicant should not have completed any undergraduate degree Programme.
6. The Applicant should have demonstrated leadership potential and/or community service.
7. The Applicant should be 28 years old or younger at the application deadline.
8. Applicants under the categories of Refugees, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), and Students with Disabilities should be 32 years old or younger at the time of the application deadline
9. A refugee applicant must hold a Refugee Identity Card or Family Attestation.
10. Applicants in the Refugee Host Communities category must have completed their secondary school education within those communities.
11. The applicant should have applied for any degree programmes prioritized under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University‘s main campus (please refer to the application form for a list of prioritized programmes).

2. Applicants for Master’s Degree Programmes

1. The applicant must have applied for admission to Makerere University‘s main campus for 2025/2026.
2. The Applicant must have completed their undergraduate education in an African country.
3. The Applicant should be experiencing financial hardships.
4. The Applicant should not be a holder of any other scholarship.
5. The Applicant should not be pursuing or have completed any Master’s degree studies.
6. The applicant should have demonstrated leadership potential and/ or community service.
7. The Applicant should not be over 35 years old at the application deadline.
8. Applicants in the Refugee and Students with Disabilities categories should be under 40 years old at the application deadline.
9. A refugee applicant MUST hold a Refugee Identity card or Family Attestation.
10. The applicant should have applied for any degree programs prioritized under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (please refer to the application form for a list of prioritized programs).

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Prospective applicants for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University‘s main campus can access and complete the application form at no cost through the Online Application Portal (https://apply.mastercardfoundation.mak.ac.ug/)

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION

The application submission deadline is Friday, 6^th June 2025, at 11:59 PM EAT.

For inquiries or clarifications, please call our office mobile line at +256 700-716-128 or email info@mastercardfdn.mak.ac.ug  

_{By Carol Kasujja Adii}

It was a dream come true for 21-year-old Elizabeth Gabeya, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar at Makerere University, when she took charge of the Vice Chancellor’s office for two days- March 10^th and 11^th.

She temporarily assumed the role of Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the office bearer, a day after International Women’s Day. Each year, Uganda joins the rest of the world in commemorating International Women’s Day. To mark the occasion, Prof Nawangwe permitted a first-year female student to shadow him for two days as he went about his daily activities.

Excited about the opportunity, Gabeya, a student pursuing a Bachelor of Agricultural and Rural Innovation, arrived at 1:00 p.m., ahead of the appointed time. Dressed in a white T-shirt and blue jeans, she underwent security checks at the Main Building entrance.

She was escorted to the Vice Chancellor’s office on the second floor by Betty Kyakuwa, the University’s Acting Deputy Chief of Public Relations. As she made her way to the Vice Chancellor’s office, Gabeya nervously called out the name of Jesus.

At 2:30, Gabeya was summoned to the Vice Chancellor’s office. She entered with confidence and shook Professor Nawangwe’s hand, and at precisely 2:40, she assumed the position of Vice Chancellor.

She received a team of senior staff from the Uganda Revenue Authority, His Excellency Vincent Lubega Nsamba, the 90^th Guild President of Makerere University, and other members who had come to discuss the 90^th Guild celebrations with the Vice Chancellor.

She advised the guild President to write to her office to officially inform her of the event. During the discussion, she also pointed out that over the last six graduation ceremonies, Makerere University has seen a rising number of female graduates. At the recent graduation in January, 53% of the graduates were female, while 47% were male.

The Team also discussed how the university could support male students, just as it has done for female students. Professor Nawangwe listened attentively, demonstrating a sincere interest in their perspectives.

Experience as the Vice Chancellor

Gabeya recounts that the hour she spent with Professor Nawangwe was an inspiring and unforgettable experience. She learned about his other side.

 “I have never thought that I would ever enter the Vice Chancellor’s office; all along, I believed he met with students who perform well, those with talent, and dignitaries. I was surprised when I entered his office and he said: “Welcome, Elizabeth; you are the Vice Chancellor.” She adds that as she approached the VC’s office, she kept wondering what she would discuss when she was finally ushered into the Vice Chancellor’s presence, but Prof Nawangwe’s fatherly aura dispelled all her apprehensions, and she found herself feeling quite comfortable.

“He struck me as a father-figure, friendly, down to earth, simple and a listener, he allowed me to chair a meeting and also ask him questions. The Vice Chancellor’s words challenged me to dream bigger, work harder, and seek opportunities beyond the classroom,” she said

Though it was an hour-long event, the experience made Gabeya feel valued and engaged as a student and scholar at the University.

At 3:00 p.m., she handed over the office back to Prof Nawangwe, who still wanted her to be around and chair more meetings.

“Thank you, Prof Nawangwe, for allowing me to be the Vice Chancellor. This is not just an event, it is a milestone in my academic journey. It has reminded me that I am part of a bigger mission to lead, innovate and create a better future for my community,” Gabeya expressed gratitude.

Prof. Nawangwe speaks out

In an interview, Prof. Nawangwe noted that role-playing is a powerful tool for mentoring the young generation and preparing them for leadership.

“This action is a strong catalyst, propelling many young women into leadership and positioning them as agents of change in their communities,” Prof. Nawangwe remarked. He further highlighted Makerere University‘s commitment to women’s empowerment through various initiatives, including mentorship programs, scholarships, and leadership training as prescribed under the SDG 4.

“Over the years, Makerere has made significant strides in promoting gender equity. We have seen a steady increase in female enrollment and graduation rates, with women now outnumbering men at recent graduation ceremonies. Our goal is to continue nurturing women leaders, researchers, and innovators who will contribute meaningfully to national and global development,” he added.

Today, Gabeya attended the university’s Top Management meeting, which she chaired, receiving guests from Mauritius. The guests shared opportunities for venture capitalism with the management team, which excited Elizabeth. She expressed her hope to visit Mauritius one day to learn more about investment financing.

“I will never forget these two days in my life. As a student, I cannot afford to get retakes or be average.  I am going to study hard and see that one day I occupy that office,” Gabeya said.