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Mak to award Honorary Doctorate to Ruth M Keesling

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Ms Ruth Morris Keesling-a blessing to the human and animal world is a celebrated American wildlife conservationist who has dedicated her life, resources and purpose for living to the transformation of Makerere University, the advancement of Veterinary Medicine and Wild Life, animal health research and tourism in Uganda, Africa and world over.
 
During the 65th Graduation Ceremony, the Chancellor will evoke the powers entrusted to him to award a Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) of Makerere University to Ms Ruth Morris Keesling in recognition of her distinguished and selfless contribution to Makerere University, Uganda, the Eastern and Central Africa region and global communities.

Ms Ruth Morris Keesling has made the world a better place! She deserves this prestigious award! Subsequently, the proposal from Mak College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-Security to award Ms Ruth Morris Keesling with a Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) was unanimously endorsed by the Makerere University Senate-the Chief academic organ of this great institution.

Reading her admirable CV, the University Council chaired by Eng. Dr. Charles Wana-Etyem noted that Ms Ruth Morris Keesling, from New Jersey and an alumnus of the University of Colorado, USA had over the years generously contributed to Makerere University’s growth and transformation as well as the human race at the national and international levels. As the University Council unanimously adopted the proposal at its 133rd meeting held on Thursday 11th December 2014, it was evident that Ms Ruth Morris Keesling’s heart and soul were at Makerere University when she selflessly devoted her time and resources in all that she did for the institution.

Born on 4th April 1930 in New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States, Ms Ruth Morris Keesling, grew up in the first small animal hospital in the country, established by her veterinarian father, Dr. Mark L. Morris, in New Jersey. She learned to love animals at an early age. After graduating from the University of Colorado in 1953 with a degree in Journalism, she chose to become a partner in Mark Morris Associates and Theracon Laboratories, the Family’s Animal Nutritional Research Organizations which developed Prescription Diets and Science Diets for dogs and cats.

Since 1948, she has worked as a lifetime Trustee and Executive Committee member to develop the Morris Animal Foundation (MAF), which is dedicated to solving health problems in companion animals and wildlife.  Today, MAF is the largest animal-specialist non-governmental organization in the world.

For the last 28 years since 1986, Ruth Morris Keesling has dedicated her energies, finances and time to carry on the gorilla conservation legacy of the late Primatologist Dian Fossey; and has made major contribution to the recovery of the Mountain Gorilla population from 248 at the time to the current estimate of 880.

Ms. Ruth Morris Keesling at the Keesling Centre Dedication, 5th October 2013, CoVAB, Makerere UniversityContribution to Mak’s mision:

  • Ruth Morris Keesling and the veterinarians she was funding initiated collaboration with Makerere University in 1996, through the then Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. She financed an honorary lecturer position to build capacity in wildlife health management from 1996 to 2006.
  • She provided supplementary funds for selected Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (BVM) final year students to carry out research and acquire skills in gorilla health. These graduates are now part of the vibrant team of Mountain gorilla and other primate health management specialists in the region.
  • She was instrumental in negotiation for establishment of Department of Wildlife and Animal Resources Management (WARM) in 1997 with commitment to provide supplementary budget for the running of WARM over the years.
  • Provided supplementary budget and technical support to running a field wildlife course at the Makerere University field station in Lake Mburo National Park
  • Established the first computer laboratory and internet connection in the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
  • Provided funds in 2007 to transform a classroom on the COVAB main block and enable it host a state-of-the Arc Geographical Information Systems (ArcGIS) computer laboratory.

In 2010-2011, an MoU was negotiated and established between Makerere and Ruth Keesling’s organization; Mountain Gorilla Conservation Fund (MGCF), to expand WARM in the new Collegiate system.  Funds (up to US$ 250,000) have been spent in renovating an old structure to transform it into a Regional Centre of Excellence in Wildlife Health and Management. Ruth was honoured by Makerere University in October 2013 at a donors dedication function by naming the centre after her.

With regard to scholarship for graduate training, Ms Ruth Morris Keesling has committed funds to support Makerere University’s training efforts. Up to 8 full Masters Scholarships and one PhD have been given for graduate training in Wildlife Health and Management. In addition, the Masters in Wildlife Health and Management is being reviewed with tracks to respond to the regional demands that have been expressed by Conservation Institutions and conservation NGOs.

At the national level, Ruth Morris Keesling made a quest for the phylogenetic study in 1990 whose results helped in the determination of the exact phylogeny of the Bwindi gorillas and eventual upgrading mountain gorilla status (Gorilla gorilla beringei). Subsequently, Bwindi Forest Reserve was gazetted as a Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for Mountain Gorilla conservation; National and International funds were secured for establishment of the Management Plans; Mountain gorilla-based tourism began in Bwindi in 1993. Currently there are 13 Mt. gorilla families visited by tourists, each is visited by a maximum of 8 tourists thus generating $ 4800 per day, hence $62400 in total. Gorilla tourism currently contributes up to 50% of Uganda’s national tourism revenue. This sector is the lead foreign exchange earner for Uganda, supporting 20% of the Nation’s GDP.

In the Eastern, Central Africa region and the global communities, Ruth Morris Keesling has contributed to the establishment of the first World Veterinary Clinic dedicated to free-ranging wildlife; knowledge generation and dissemination; and provides leadership in continuation of gorilla ecological research and conservation; to mention but a few.

It is therefore befitting to witness the Orator, Prof. John David Kabasa, Principal, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-Security, on 21st January 2015 citing Ms Ruth Morris Keesling selfless contribution to Mak, Uganda, Africa and global communities, and filled with joy, presenting Ms Ruth Morris Keesling to the Chancellor for the conferment of this prestigious award-Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) of Makerere University.

Congratulations Dr. (h.c.) Ruth Morris Keesling

By Ritah Namisango, Public Relations Office

 

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Makerere Honours Ms. Ruth Morris Keesling

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Makerere University Fees Waiver for 40 First Year Female Students 2025/2026

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Makerere University Tuition and Functional Fees Waiver is a Scholarship Scheme that was initiated by Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate and was approved by the Makerere University Council in December 2010. The Scheme supports bright female students from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds to access education at Makerere University. The University waives off tuition and functional fees for the duration of the study of the beneficiaries of the scheme. With effect from 2021/2022 academic year, the Scheme has offered waiver of tuition and functional fees for 40 female students joining the University who meet the criteria. All Programmes in the Colleges at Makerere University Main Campus and at Makerere University Jinja Campus are eligible for this Scholarship support. These scholarships are administered by the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Makerere University. Persons with disabilities are highly encouraged to apply.

ELIGIBILITY

Scholarship applicants should meet the following criteria:

  1. Should be female of Ugandan Nationality
  2. Should be a first-year student admitted at Makerere University Main Campus and Jinja Campus for the academic year 2025/2026 under the Direct Entry Scheme.
  3. Should be from a genuinely disadvantaged socio-economic background.
  4. Those not admitted on Uganda Government sponsorship to any public university.
  5. Those who do not hold any other scholarship e.g. District Scholarship
  6. Must be willing to participate in a selection process as shall be determined by the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate Scholarship Committee.

THE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION FORM SUBMITTED SHALL BE DEEMED COMPLETE ONCE IT CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ATTACHMENTS;

  1. Copies of ‘O’ and ‘A’ level academic documents.
  2. One Passport size photograph.
  3. A Copy of the applicant’s birth certificate.
  4. Incase of deceased parent (s), a copy of death certificate(s)
  5. A hand drawn physical map of an applicant’s home/residence with clear directions of how to get to that home or residence from the nearest main road (indicate approximate distances in kilometres).
  6. A copy of the admission letter to Makerere University.

The scholarship covers only tuition and functional fees. The applicant must be able to pay for their feeding, accommodation and other learning necessities required by the University for the duration of the study period.

Interested and eligible applicants can pick application forms free of charge from the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Senate Building, Level 4, Room 402 OR download a copy from the Makerere University Website: https://mak.ac.ug/

You can also access more information on our X handle @MakerereGMD

For more information or inquiries, please contact us using the following contacts:

Office Mobile Numbers: +256702960616 / +256781866728
Email Address: director.gendermainstreaming@mak.ac.ug

The Application deadline is Monday, 8th August 2025 at 5:00pm.

Euzobia Mugisha Baine (PhD)
Chief Gender Mainstreaming Officer

Mak Editor

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Korean Language Courses-Semester

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Students walk into the Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Centre for Language and Communication Services (CLCS), College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Makerere University in collaboration with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) invite applications for Korean Language Classes for students and members of the public.

Courses by Level

  • Beginner
  • Elementary
  • Intermediate
  • Online
  • TOPIK

Instructor: Wongo Yoon wongoyoon@gmail.com

Registration is open, you can register to join the class at any time.

Registration:

To register, call the Centre for Language and Communication Services (CLCS): +256 756 12 8046 / +256 775 424704

Fee: UGX 80,000 a semester

For more information Whatsapp: +256 790 505658 (Yoon) / +256 757 710511 (Mariam)

See downloads for Class Timetable

The Korean Corner is located on the 2nd floor of the Main Library at Makerere University.

Mak Editor

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NCBA Commits UGX 1.45 Billion to Makerere Marathon, Pledges Five-Year Support for Inclusive Education

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (C) flanked by Dr. Maggie Kigozi (R) and Mr. Mark Muyobo (L) on 9th July 2025 at Makerere University. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.

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.

Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance.

“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.”

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe poses with the #MakRun2025 photo frame. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe poses with the #MakRun2025 photo frame.

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.

Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Officials pose with runners in the Freedom Square.

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

Mak Editor

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