General
Over 55m collected at Mak Library Day-Etaffaali celebrations
Makerere University has celebrated her Library day with a collection of over 55million Shillings (55,456,550/=) towards Buganda Kingdom’s Etaffaali project, spearheaded by the Katikkiro (Prime Minister) of Buganda Kingdom, Ow’ekitiibwa Charles Peter Mayiga. The Etaffaali concept is about putting funds together, however meager, for a common cause.
The funds were collected during the World Library Day Celebrations 2014 held at the Main University Library Extension grounds on 16th May 2014. The celebrations were held under the theme “MakLib: A Knowledge Hub for Transforming Society”.
Among the key collections were 10m shillings from the Makerere University Council and sums ranging from 1m – 5m from the 9 Colleges and School of Law. Individuals also gave contributions ranging from 500 to millions of shillings.
This event kicked off with the Katikkiro’s entourage making a grand entrance, escorted by the jubilating and energetic ‘Nkoba za Mbogo’ Buganda youth group. The Katikkiro first paid a courtesy to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu, before planting a tree at the Main Library in commemoration of his first official visit to Makerere University. He thereafter toured the highly-digitized Main Library, attuned to the 21st century’s digital demands.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu called upon the Katikkiro to further the cause for literacy. “My humble request to you Ow’ekitiibwa Katikkiro, is that just as you have championed Etaffaali, you can also champion the cause of reading and writing in this country. We appeal to the Buganda Kingdom to continue its legacy of ensuring a knowledgeable society, which was initiated by Ssekabaka Edward Mutesa 1 in 1875 when he wrote a Letter to Queen Victoria of England appealing to her to introduce education for the benefit of Ugandans so that they could ably contribute to global development. We appeal to you Ow’ekitiibwa Katikkiro to continue encouraging Ugandans to not only read but also write,” he said.
He pledged Makerere University’s commitment to partnering with Buganda Kingdom to advance this cause and appreciated Buganda’s contribution to Makerere University’s establishment. “I would like to take this opportunity to appreciate Buganda Kingdom for dedicating land on which Makerere University stands. Through you, Ow’ekitiibwa Katikkiro, please extend our best and warm regards to Sabbasajja Kabaka Muwenda Mutebi II,” he added.
In his remarks, the Katikkiro applauded Makerere University for the new library extension, which he said was built on Etaffaali ideology. “I commend the ICT levels in the new library. I am particularly impressed that there are special provisions for expectant mothers and also for people living with disabilities. This sensitivity is encouraged. I am happy that this extension was built on Etaffaali system. Of course students had to go on strike because of the fees increment, but now their followers are benefiting,” he said. He also challenged the Makerere University legal department to seek avenues of renewing the lease title on which Makerere University stands, lest the Institution loses it.
He further called upon students and Staff members to embrace the Etaffaali as a sustainable way of building institutions. His comments come at a time when Makerere University is using a similar model to put up the proposed Students Centre, estimated to be worth US $30m. The Katikkiro, a proud alumnus of the Makerere University School of Law donated two of his books, King On The Throne and Buganda Ku’ntikko to the University Library as is by law required. He decried the poor reading culture in Uganda. “I am informed that Dons only read to impart knowledge and do not pay much attention to reading beyond their field. If you do this, you remain 40% ignorant. It is important that Dons broaden their scope too,” he emphasized.
The University Library presented him with a number of gifts, including the letter that the late Sir Edward Mutesa I wrote to the Queen of England requesting for white missionaries to come and educate his people. He was also presented with Compact Discs containing information on Buganda’s history, which according to the University Librarian can be used to start a digital library for the Kingdom. The Vice Chancellor also presented the Katikkiro with souvenir items from Makerere University. He appreciated all the gifts adding ‘muyigganga mutta,’ loosely translated as ‘may you always hunt to kill.’
While still a student, Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga was a resident of University Hall. The hall, led by Warden Peter Rivan Muhereza, presented him with a plaque in appreciation of his visit. He threw the audience into uncontrollable ululations when he sang the unofficial University Hall’s cultural anthem ‘beya beya, hep hep hep. One for Katanga, one for Soweto,’ he bellowed before quickly resuming his seat.
In her PowerPoint presentation, Prof. Maria Musoke, the University Librarian chronicled Makerere University’s contribution to society over the years, spinning to the early 1970s when the Main Library was declared a national repository. “This Library is visited by over 1,000 people daily and I am glad that we have continuously satisfied their needs. Our aim is to make the user smile. If the user does not smile, we have failed in our work,” she emphasized. She was grateful to the former University Management under the leadership of Prof. Livingstone Luboobi, for embracing the idea of expanding the Main Library through Internally Generated Funds.
The highly colorful ceremony was attended by dignitaries from Buganda Kingdom, former Vice Chancellors of Makerere University, Members of Staff, Students and Alumni of Makerere University. The Katikkiro’s entourage left the University grounds shortly after 7:00pm.
By Marion Alina, Public Relations Office
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
Makerere University has today Wednesday, 9th June 2025 officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon. Formerly known as a fun run, the initiative was rebranded on 27th March 2025 during the launch of its Fifth Edition. This year’s event, #MakRun2025, is slated for 17th August 2025 under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future”.
Addressing the Media at a press conference this afternoon, the MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi remarked, “We are deeply honoured and excited to unveil NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of #MakRun2025, with a landmark commitment of UGX 1.45 billion over the next five years.”
Dr. Kigozi further described the unveiling as “a strategic partnership built on shared values and a common vision for inclusive education and sustainable impact,” adding that it would “fast-track the establishment of a fully equipped Disability Support Unit for students living with disabilities, and to build a sustainable pool of funds to support Economically Disadvantaged Students.”
Appreciating the generous sponsorship, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe acknowledged that NCBA Bank had not only made history as the biggest corporate sponsor of #MakRun to date but also aligned with Makerere’s vision to improve the quality of student life. “This is a powerful gesture of trust in our mission and a demonstration of deep corporate citizenship”, he added.
Prof. Nawangwe further thanked NCBA for recognizing that an investment in Makerere University is an indirect investment in the future of Uganda. “The Makerere Marathon is not just a race. It is a movement to establish a fully-fledged Disability Support Unit for students living with various forms of disabilities, and to build a sustainable fund for Economically Disadvantaged Students.”
The Vice Chancellor therefore rallied staff, students, alumni, partners and friends of Makerere to match NCBA’s generous support with vigour and commitment, so as to make #MakRun2025 the most impactful edition since its founding.
The Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mark Muyobo thanked Makerere University for giving NCBA Bank Uganda the opportunity to play its part in “shaping Uganda’s future one student, one community, one strength at a time,” adding that #MakRun is a symbol of hope for students living with disabilities as it speaks to Makerere’s core values of inclusion, equity, and excellence.
On a rhythmical note, Mr. Muyobo remarked that the #MakRun2025 theme is “not just about finishing lines, it is about opening doors; giving opportunities to those who are disabled. It is about promoting active lifestyle.”
#MakRun2025 will for the first time feature a full 42.2km marathon race with international accreditation and professional timing along a dedicated traffic-free route.
“These are not just upgrades, these are bold steps towards building a world-class international marathon right here in Kampala. We are proud to be the wings at your back as you take this leap because when Makerere University, the beacon of higher learning in Uganda grows stronger, the ripple effects are felt across the region and across the continent” Mr. Muyobo affirmed.
To officially seal the deal, a Memorandum of Understanding was officially signed between Makerere University and NCBA Bank Uganda, and thereafter, a dummy cheque of UGX 1.45 billion was presented to Dr. Maggie Kigozi as the Vice Chancellor, Members of Management and NCBA staff witnessed.
-
Education1 week agoAdmission List to Bachelor of Education External (BED) 2025/26 -Private Sponsorship
-
General2 weeks agoUndergraduate Admission List Self Sponsorship Scheme 2025/2026
-
General5 days agoRe-advert: Admission to Undergraduate Programmes 2025/2026
-
General1 week agoAdmission Lists for – Bachelor of Laws 2025-26
-
General1 week agoDiploma/Degree Holders Scheme – Self Sponsorship Admission Lists 2025/26