General
Makerere inaugurates Endowment Fund Board of Trustees
The Makerere University Chancellor, Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera inaugurated the first Board of Trustees in charge of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) at a ceremony held on Thursday, 17th July 2014 in the Senior Common Room, Main Administration Building. The inauguration ceremony involved the Chancellor adorning each Board Member with a lapel pin engraved with the wording ‘Makerere University Endowment Fund Board of Trustees.’
“This Endowment Fund is a great step forward. I am glad that Makerere University is increasingly getting innovative on how to raise money because the Government subvention and students’ tuition is insufficient. Taking the example of Harvard University with an Endowment Fund worth US$ 32billion, Makerere University is on the right path to financial sustainability,” said the Chancellor Prof. Kagonyera.
The Board whose main objective will be to mobilize resources from Makerere University Alumni and well wishers, is comprised of 7 members headed by Dr. Martin Jerome Okec Aliker. The others are: the Vice Chancellor, Professor John Ddumba-Ssentamu; Ambassador Edith Sempala; Mr. Barnabas R. Tumusingize; Mr. Grace Isabirye; Mr. Martin Owiny; and Hon. Gerald Karuhanga.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Aliker promised to serve diligently. “I wrote to the Vice Chancellor 15 years ago suggesting that Makerere University need not to be poor if it uses its own initiative to raise funds. As a Board, we think we know what we want to do and we ask for your support in fulfilling our mandate. We shall deliver,” he emphasized amidst applause.
The Board of Trustees inauguration comes at a time Makerere University is financially constrained. “Makerere University is taking a bold step to walk the talk. We are embarking on a strategic journey focused on delivering 
a financially stable Makerere University. Since a journey of a thousand miles starts with one step, today’s inauguration is an indicator that we have started on the long term plan of exploring several strategies, all aimed at making Makerere University financially stable. The Makerere University Endowment fund therefore provides Makerere University and her Alunmni the perfect opportunity to build a firm foundation for future generations,” explained Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu.
In his remarks, the Chairperson, Makerere University Council-Eng. Dr. Charles Wana Etyem urged the audience recognise the value that the Board of Trustees is bringing to Makerere University. “These people are not coming here to look for allowances or to make a name for themselves. They already have these. They are coming here to help Makerere University raise money. We have now opened a new chapter. The Board of trustees that we are inaugurating today will receive and or 
mobilize funds for the benefit of University operations,” asserted the Chairperson, Makerere University Council.
The Chairperson further explained that the Fund’s long term goal is to fund scholarships, research, infrastructure, high quality teaching and learning services as well as all other activities aligned to the realisation of the University’s vision to be the leading institution for academic excellence and innovations in Africa.
After the inauguration, the Board of Trustees held its first meeting in the Council Room to agree on how best to advance this long-awaited initiative. The Board will serve for a four year term with members eligible for re-appointment for one more term only.
Note:
All alumni, staff, students and well wishers are welcome to contribute to the Endowment Fund. Details on how to contribute may be obtained from the Planning and Development Department (PDD) at the address below.
Planning and Development Department (PDD)
Block C – Lincoln Flats
Makerere University
P. O. Box 7062
Kampala – Uganda
E-mail: info@pdd.mak.ac.ug
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
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