Pupils, parents and authorities at Bwera Primary School in Kabale District were filled with joy as the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, in partnership with dfcu Bank, handed over a four-classroom block to the school.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, one of the parents, Saison Tumukuratire, expressed gratitude for the support.

“We thank God for this gesture. Our children can now attend classes without interruptions caused by rain. Previously, whenever it rained, lessons would stop. The old building was on the verge of collapsing, had no windows, and the floor was dusty,” she said.

Uganda has made significant progress in expanding access to education through Universal Primary Education (UPE); bringing millions of children into school. However, in hard-to-reach communities, physical access and the quality of learning environments continue to shape how effectively that opportunity translates into consistent attendance and meaningful outcomes.

Bwera Primary School, a government-aided institution located in the remote and hard to reach village in Kahama Sub-County, has an enrollment of 275 pupils. For decades, the school has faced significant challenges related to access and infrastructure.

With no road access and limited infrastructure, the school has long struggled to provide a conducive environment for learning. Efforts to improve facilities have often been constrained by high transportation costs and logistical barriers; with some contractors previously declining to take on construction work due to the difficulty of accessing the site.

“The school structures are not sufficient for our learners, and we do not have a single staff house. We are deeply grateful to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and dfcu Bank for coming to our rescue after the school’s plight was highlighted in the media,” Edson Bikorwomuhangi, the headteacher, said.

On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University and dfcu Bank officially handed over the new facilities. These include a four-classroom block equipped with 60 bench desks, a four-stance modern pit latrine, and a 10,000-litre rainwater harvesting system.

The new infrastructure is expected to significantly improve the learning environment and support better educational outcomes for the pupils.

Since 2014, Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University and alumni have contributed to communities across Uganda by constructing classrooms, providing clean water and supporting vulnerable communities.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Nelson Dumba, the Chairperson of the Scholars giveback Committee, noted that the event was not about commissioning structures, it is about celebrating impact, partnership and the power of giving back.

“As scholars we are deeply aware that we are beneficiaries of opportunity, and because we have been given a chance, we carry a responsibility to extend that opportunity to others and contribute meaningfully to the communities that shape us,” Mr. Dumba, said.

Mr. Dumba called upon the Bwera community to take ownership, protect the property, and ensure that it continues to serve generations to come.

“To the pupils of Bwera Primary, this investment is for you, use it well, take care of it and believe in your dreams. You are capable of achieving better outcomes,” Mr. Ddumba, said.

One of the central pillar of the Scholars Program is community service and giveback, grounded in the belief that leadership is best demonstrated through service to others.The Scholars Program is not only about access to education, it is about transformation and impact.

In her speech, Ms. Jolly Okumu, the Program Operation Lead of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, noted that through mentorship and structured engagement, Mastercard Foundation Scholars are encouraged to initiate community-driven projects, improve livelihoods, promote inclusion and foster sustainable development.

“Today is not just about handing over infrastructure, it is a celebration of partnership, shared purpose and our collective commitment to improving learning environment for young people. It reflects our belief that when institutions and communities come together, we can create lasting impact and open up greater possibilities for the next generation,” Ms Okumu, said.

Ms Okumu extended special appreciation to the Jane Goodall Institute for providing a 10,000 litre water tank and dfcu Bank for a financial contribution of UGX 20Million used to renovate two classrooms and purchase desks.

“As we officially hand over this project, we hope these improved facilities will provide a safe environment and a space conducive for learning. Our Scholars are not just beneficiaries, they are committed to building a stronger and more inclusive communities,” Ms. Okumu, noted.

Speaking on behalf of dfcu Bank, Ms Helena Mayanja, the Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, noted that the giveback project reflects the Bank’s commitment to elevate education, financial literacy and health in intended communities.

“The journey to the school itself reflects the realities these children face every day. Improving infrastructure in such communities is essential to ensuring that access to education translates into real learning outcomes,” she said.

dfcu Bank has various partnerships and programs targeting vulnerable and hard to reach communities which are aimed at elevating financial literacy, health and education.

Kabale District Education Officer, Mr. Moses Tumwijukye Bwengye welcomed the development, noting that previous efforts to upgrade the school had failed due to inaccessibility.

“We thank our partners for renovating this classroom, with these projects, results are going to change because now the learning is conducive. Before contractors were unable to take on the work because of the terrain. Partnerships like this are important in unlocking development in hard-to-reach communities and improving education outcomes,” Mr. Tumwijukye, said.

Parents speak out

Evidence Tumwebaza, who has a child in Primary One noted that the infrastructures are going to help them improve the school’s sanitation.

“The tank is big and I am happy that my child will now study in a conducive environment and will have clean water for drinking,” Tumwebaza, said.

Ann Turyasima, a parent and former pupil said that the project is going to help pupils to stop carrying water from a long distance.

“These pupils have been moving from down the valley to go and fetch water for the school but now everything is here. They can now concentrate in school.”

_{By Ritah Namisango and Chris Kaahwa}

The Institute of Open, Distance and e-Learning (IODel) on behalf of Makerere University, in collaboration with a consortium of 21 partner institutions from 13 countries across Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa, is implementing a project titled: Critical Virtual Exchange in Artificial Intelligence (CVEinAI).

The participating countries include Italy, Denmark, Belgium, Ireland, Portugal, France, Romania, Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Namibia, Ghana and Botswana with the University of Padua in Italy coordinating the consortium.

The CVEinAI is a three-year project which started in February 2025, and Makerere University is the only participating institution from Uganda.  The CVEinAI project team at Makerere University includes: Dr. Harriet Nabushawo-Project Investigator (P.I.), Professor Paul Muyinda Birevu (Co-PI), Dr. Harriet Najjemba, Dr. Richard Kajumbula and Ms. Hope Musiime.

Funded by the European Union and Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), the CVEinAI project objectives include: Strengthening AI literacy, building the capacity of Higher Education Institution staff to embed Virtual Exchange within curricula, equipping student facilitators and teachers with critical approaches to AI, training educators to systematically identify and mitigate embedded biases and assumptions, and to explore challenges and risks of AI use across diverse contexts.

In pursuit of the objectives, the project team at Makerere University based the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, and the Institute of Open Distance and e-Learning (IODEL) under the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) hosted an Open Day on 25^th March 2026, to onboard stakeholders by highlighting the activities accomplished, the work in progress, and above all, the expected impact of the CVEinAI in the higher education sector across Africa and Europe.

The Open Day featured speeches with authorities in the field articulating informed messages on the role of AI in the transformation of the education sector, as well as, presentations demonstrating the training and capacity building activities accomplished, and those in the pipeline. For instance, during the Open Day, the participants, witnessed the award of badges and certificates, to students and staff who had successfully completed the CVEinAI Course for Facilitators, as well as, the CVEinAI Upskilling Masterclass.

Listening to the speeches and presentations, the various stakeholders appreciated that the Critical Virtual Exchange in AI (CVEinAI) project, is aimed at reshaping how students and staff engage with Artificial Intelligence (AI) while strengthening their critical thinking skills.

Building critical thinking skills in AI and studying the risks of over-reliance on AI

Welcoming the staff, students, facilitators and stakeholders to the Open Day, the CVEinAI Principal Investigator and Dean, School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, Dr. Harriet Nabushawo, described the project as an approach for studying critical thinking skills in AI that connects students from Europe and Africa through digital tools to participate in structured technology-mediated collaborations.

“By integrating intercultural dialogue and collaborative learning, CVE moves beyond technical AI instruction to foster critical thinking and responsible innovation,” said Dr. Nabushawo, the Principal Investigator.

She stated that the project is a collaborative initiative involving 21 institutions from 13 countries across Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa, targeting over 2400 students through multiple training cycles between 2026 and 2027.

Dr. Nabushawo highlighted that the project will help the university respond to the growing concerns about the increasing reliance on AI in education. “AI is now widely used by students, lecturers and administrators. However, over-reliance on it risks weakening critical thinking and independent judgment,” she stated.

In the presentation, Dr. Nabushawo articulated that Critical Virtual Exchange (CVE) in AI offers a practical and transformative approach to implementation in higher education. She expounded that when effectively embedded, CVE not only enhances AI literacy, but also prepares learners to critically examine and shape the societal impacts of AI in diverse, real-world contexts.

AI is rapidly transforming the landscape of higher education

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) of Makerere University, Professor Sarah Ssali, in a speech read by Professor Robert Wamala, the Director, Directorate of Research, Innovations and Partnerships, emphasized that the CVEinAI was timely and relevant, noting that the project was being implemented when AI is rapidly transforming the landscape of higher education.

“AI is redefining the landscape of academia. AI is transforming how knowledge is generated, how learning is delivered, and how institutions collaborate across geographical and disciplinary boundaries,” stated Professor Ssali. Therefore, the CVEinAI Open Day marks a significant step in advancing the integration of AI into teaching, learning, and research at Makerere University.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) stressed that for a research-led institution such as Makerere University, the CVEinAI project presents both an opportunity and a responsibility to harness technology in addressing societal challenges and driving sustainable development.

Professor Ssali guided that while AI offers great potential, its adoption must be guided by three key considerations: inclusivity and accessibility, ethical and critical engagement, collaboration and knowledge sharing. She advised that digital platforms should expand access to learning for all including distance learners and persons with disabilities while maintaining fairness and transparency. She added that technology should remain a tool that supports, not replacing human thinking.

Transformation of Makerere through digital pedagogy and innovative learning approaches

The Principal of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga represented by the Deputy Principal, Professor Ronald Bisaso, commended the CVEinAI project team on its tremendous contribution to Makerere’s transformation through modelling digital pedagogy.

The Principal described the approach as an inclusive model bringing staff and students together into the innovation process. He urged the project team to be deliberate and extend the program to staff and students from other Colleges, to ensure that no one is left behind. He elaborated that the deliberate integration of CVEinAI will position the project to influence the entire academic ecosystem and solve problems.

The Principal commended the European Union and Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF) for funding the CVEinAI project will significantly enhance the teaching and learning processes as well as research and innovation.

CVEinAI enhances the mandate of IODEL

The Co-Principal Investigator and Director of IODEL, Professor Paul Muyinda Birevu, lauded Makerere University for its visionary and bold step of setting up the Institute. Professor Muyinda Birevu highlighted that IODEL plays a central role in advancing innovative teaching methods across Makerere University to promote digital pedagogy.

“Our work at IODEL relates to researching innovative curriculum design, innovative teaching and learning methods. The CVEinAI project is one of the innovative approaches to teaching and learning,” Prof. Muyinda Birevu stated.

He explained that the CVEinAI project is one of the approaches designed to introduce new ways of learning which consider diverse cultures, perspectives and real-world contexts. “This approach allows students and lecturers to engage beyond traditional lecture rooms and interact across different environments,” he said, adding that without such innovations, learning institutions risk falling behind in a rapidly changing academic landscape.

Responding to the concerns from staff, students and stakeholders on the ethical use of AI, Professor Muyinda Birevu revealed that IODel will hold focused meetings to sensitise staff and students. He assured the participants that AI had come to stay, and it was incumbent upon each stakeholder to adapt to AI. He noted that although AI will not replace human thinking and understanding, AI will enhance the delivery methods of individuals who choose to professionally integrate AI into their work and operations.

Importance of stakeholder involvement and collaborations beyond the University

Addressing the participants, Professor Fred Masagazi Masaazi, Chairperson of MakRIF Grants Management Committee underscored the role of leadership in winning grants and successfully implementing research projects.

Professor Masagazi Masaazi emphasized the importance of stakeholder involvement, noting that impactful projects must clearly identify who benefits from their outcomes. He praised the team for positioning the initiative as a university-wide effort that involves management, staff and students.

He encouraged researchers to embrace collaborations beyond the university, highlighting that partnerships (both local and international) are key to accessing funding and expanding the reach and impact of research projects.

At the just-concluded 76^th Graduation Ceremony at Makerere University, which took place between 24^th and 27^th February 2026, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University celebrated the graduation of the final Cohort of 10 Mastercard Foundation Scholars from the first phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (2013-2023). This brings the total number of graduates from Phase One to 974 out of the 1,032 Mastercard Foundation Scholars recruited.

Who are these 10 graduates, and what are their dreams and aspirations?

ACOLA Jackline graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Conservation Biology from the College of Natural Sciences. Her passion for nature and commitment to addressing environmental issues, including degradation, pollution, and the unsustainable exploitation of natural resources, have motivated her to pursue a career in conservation.  As a conservation biologist, Jackline’s primary objective is to ensure that natural resources and the environment are preserved in their pristine state. She is dedicated to promoting sustainable resource utilisation and advocating for eco-friendly business practices. To achieve this, she plans to implement comprehensive conservation education initiatives for the general public.

AJIAMBO Eunice graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce. She is motivated and detail-oriented, with a strong academic foundation in accounting, taxation, finance, and business management. Her programme provided her with practical knowledge and analytical skills relevant to today’s dynamic commercial environment. During her academic journey, she developed a strong interest in taxation and financial compliance. She undertook coursework and case studies that enhanced her understanding of corporate taxation, value-added tax, financial reporting, and business decision-making. These experiences strengthened her ability to analyse financial information, interpret regulations, and apply commercial principles effectively. Eunice aspires to build a professional career in finance and taxation, with a focus on tax advisory, revenue administration, and corporate finance. She is passionate about ethical business practices and believes that effective financial management and tax compliance are essential for sustainable economic growth.

Dr. AKITE Flowrence graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine, a testament to resilience and support. Losing her father at a young age could have derailed her aspirations, but instead, it fueled her determination to succeed. Throughout her academic career, she received encouragement and assistance from generous individuals who recognised her outstanding academic achievements. As a Mastercard Foundation Scholar, she not only excelled academically but also actively engaged in her community, treating animals as she gained experience as a vet student. In her hometown of Dokolo, Northern Uganda, she has played a vital role in treating animals and enhancing the health and welfare of local livestock.

AUMA Barbra attained a Bachelor of Arts with Education, representing a significant milestone in her educational journey. Hailing from a modest family of eight children, she faced numerous challenges on her path to higher education, particularly after her father, a security guard, was unable to fund her university tuition following her Senior Six. Consequently, her graduation not only signifies a personal accomplishment but also embodies a remarkable triumph over adversity. Her academic excellence earned her a place in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, a pivotal opportunity that enabled her to pursue her dreams. Barbra is particularly dedicated to advocating for girls’ education.

Dr. BABALANDA Immaculate is a dedicated veterinary professional who recently completed her Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine. Throughout her studies, she maintained a strong focus on animal health, food safety, and sustainable livestock systems. Passionate about agricultural innovation, she founded the Green Grub Revolution Project, which promotes black soldier fly larvae as a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to traditional poultry feed. Her work focuses on bridging the gap between scientific research and grassroots community needs. Currently, through her Fellowship at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI-Nairobi), Immaculate is strengthening her research and leadership in one health and climate-smart livestock production. She envisions a career at the intersection of veterinary medicine and agricultural innovation, where she can scale sustainable feed alternatives and contribute to resilient food systems across Africa.

MAZAPKWE Vicky proudly earned her Bachelor of Business Administration, showcasing the remarkable outcomes of determination and resilience in overcoming adversity. Having lost both parents at a young age, pursuing higher education seemed an unattainable dream. However, with her auntie’s unwavering support, she successfully completed her primary and secondary education. Her dedication and academic excellence earned her a place in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, paving the way for her academic journey at Makerere University. Now equipped with her degree, Vicky has set her sights on becoming a successful businesswoman while nurturing her passion for storytelling as a film writer and director. She is grateful for the opportunities provided by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which not only empowered her but also inspired her to launch a project that supports orphans in her community.

NAMATOVU Noeline graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration. A daughter of a single mother, her graduation is both a joy and big relief to her mother.

 After the loss of her father, she received invaluable support from a priest, a friend of her late dad.

“The priest took me to school and covered my fees until I completed Senior Six. Although he couldn’t help with university expenses, it motivated me to seek a scholarship, and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University enabled me to pursue my university education.” Namatovu shares. Initially aspiring to be a doctor, she found the sciences challenging and shifted her focus to accounting, where she plans to major and pursue professional qualifications. Her achievements have inspired young people in her community.

NAMIYINGO Christine graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with Education, majoring in Economics. Her academic journey has been challenging, particularly given her experience with bipolar disorder; however, she is grateful for the support she has received from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team at Makerere University. She is keen to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) to strengthen her expertise in Business Management and realise her aspiration of becoming an entrepreneur. Beyond her academic pursuits, Christine is deeply committed to her faith, which she considers a significant factor in her success. She is also dedicated to assisting those in need, guided by a belief that acts of generosity are rewarded. Inspired by accomplished individuals, she actively seeks mentorship to foster her personal development. 

NAMONGIN Alice is a dedicated development practitioner, climate justice advocate, and youth leader from Uganda’s Karamoja region. As a Mastercard Foundation Scholar at Makerere University, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Statistics, with a focus on research and social entrepreneurship. She founded the Nurture HER Initiative, a youth-led venture that promotes climate resilience and girls’ education in Indigenous communities. She has trained over 70 Indigenous youth volunteers, supported climate education in schools, and promoted sustainable solutions. With interests in climate policy, entrepreneurship, and community solutions, Alice aspires to influence policies that prioritise Indigenous knowledge and youth participation. She enjoys mentoring young girls, public speaking, and using storytelling to drive social change. 

NVIRI Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with Education. Throughout his academic career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to education, leadership, and community development. His enthusiasm for teaching and empowering his peers has motivated him to pursue a career dedicated to improving Uganda’s education system, focusing on integrating modern teaching methodologies and digital tools to enrich the learning experience. Robert aspires to become a transformative educator who inspires students to engage in critical and creative thinking. He is particularly passionate about improving access to education for under-served communities and firmly believes in education’s capacity to foster social change. In addition to his academic endeavours, Robert has actively tutored children facing social and economic barriers and organised mentorship programmes for young people, thereby reinforcing his dedication to community service.

How did the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program journey start at Makerere University? The Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, shares the highlights.

Phase One of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (2013-2023)

In 2013, Makerere University entered into a transformative partnership with the Mastercard Foundation to nurture the next generation of leaders in Africa. This initiative is designed to empower young people to drive positive change in their lives, their communities, and across the continent. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program places strong emphasis on enabling young people to shape new narratives and pursue meaningful aspirations.

Through this collaboration, Makerere University has successfully implemented two phases of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. The first phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program was implemented from 2013 to 2023. Under this phase, 1,032 Mastercard Foundation Scholars were recruited and educated at Makerere University, of which 974 graduated and are contributing in various capacities within their communities.

Phase Two of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (2023-2034)

In December 2023, the partnership was renewed, and the second phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is currently being implemented at Makerere University and will run through 2034. Building on the first phase, the University is committed to fostering inclusion and ensuring equitable access in this phase. To support this goal, specific scholarship quotas have been established for the following groups:

• Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (25% of the Scholarships)
• Young People living in Refugee-Hosting Communities (5% of the Scholarships)
• Young People from Underrepresented Ethnic Groups in Uganda (5% of the Scholarships)Young People Living with Disabilities (25% of the Scholarships)
• International Students (10% of the Scholarships)
• Other Ugandan Nationals facing financial barriers to pursuing University Education (30% of the Scholarships)

What has been the individual impact of Phase One graduates of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?

To date, 974 Mastercard Foundation Scholars have graduated, proudly joining the Makerere University Alumni community.

Notably, 48% of these Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni have secured formal employment, demonstrating successful integration into the workforce. Furthermore, 18% have launched their own businesses, not only creating jobs for themselves but also generating opportunities for other young people and driving local economic transformation. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Entrepreneurship Fund (SEF) supported 46 ventures by the end of 2025, proving that start-ups are indeed a crucial solution to combating youth unemployment.

In addition, 8% of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni are gaining essential work experience through internships facilitated by Transition Partners. Meanwhile, 5% are pursuing further study in Master’s, Postgraduate Diploma, and PhD programmes, reflecting their commitment to personal and professional growth.

In total, 72% of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni are actively engaged in productive employment or entrepreneurship. This data clearly shows that investing in young people generates tangible economic and social returns.

The remaining 12% are part of other young people in Uganda with university degrees who are facing challenges entering the world of work. These young people need support and systems to translate their career navigation journeys into meaningful engagements.

What has been the impact on the Communities?

Communities have greatly benefited from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars’ Give Back initiatives, including the establishment of safe water sources, the construction of classrooms, and the planting of trees for environmental protection. These efforts reflect a commitment to empowering young people, positively impacting communities, and showcasing the potential of African universities for a sustainable future. Mastercard Foundation Scholars and Alumni implement one impact project each year on the Annual Day of Service, which allows them to showcase skills in organisation, mobilisation, and teamwork. Since 2014, Mastercard Foundation Scholars have implemented various community projects, as highlighted below.

• In 2023, Achukudu Primary School in Napak District made significant strides by constructing a two-room classroom block, complete with desks and benches, enhancing the learning environment for its students.
• In 2022, St. Katherine Primary School in Agago District contributed to its community by building a two-room classroom block alongside a new pit latrine, improving facilities for both students and staff.
• In 2021, the Bulamwaki community in Iganga District saw valuable initiatives: a borehole was completed, and 56 jerrycans were donated to local women, promoting access to clean water.
• In 2020, Mastercard Foundation Scholars made a positive impact in the Kyangwali Refugee Settlement in Kikuube by providing essential COVID-19 protective materials, distributing sanitary pads, promoting tree planting, and offering career guidance to the community.
• In 2019, efforts at Salama School for the Blind in Mukono included planting trees and erecting a protective fence around the school, creating a safer and more welcoming environment for students. At Kibaale Primary School in Mityana, activities included general cleaning, tree planting, and the completion of a two-room teacher’s residence.
• In 2018, Mastercard Foundation Scholars donated learning materials, nappies, and food items, supported feeding activities and carried out general cleaning at Kampala School for children living with disabilities.in Kampala.
•  In 2017, Mastercard Foundation Scholars constructed and renovated classroom blocks, dug a rubbish pit, and cleared a community well at Muzinda Primary School, and raised awareness on hygiene at Mbuya Gizaza Community in Nakawa. Additionally, they built a wooden classroom, renovated a latrine, cleaned the area, and planted trees at St. Charles Lwanga Primary School in Mukono.
• In 2015, Mastercard Foundation Scholars planted trees, undertook general cleaning, painted the buildings, and carried out electrical installations and repairs at Kireka School of Children with Special Needs in Kampala.
• In 2014, the first cohort of Mastercard Foundation Scholars dug a rubbish pit and a borehole trench, washed children’s clothes, supported feeding activities, carried out general cleaning and compound slashing, and donated foodstuffs, nappies and laundry detergents to Mercy Child Care Centre in Wakiso.

Giving back to the community has been, and continues to be, a core aspect of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which fosters a culture of giving through individual and group initiatives. As Nelson Mandela rightly puts it:

 “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead”. He also championed community service, noting that “we can all do more to reach out, take care, and serve the well-being of others”.

Bernard Buteera is the Principal Communications and Public Relations Officer of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme at Makerere University.