General
Prof. Nsibambi Launches Mak Convocation Sustainability Projects
Published
10 years agoon
On Saturday 30th May 2015, the former Prime Minister of Uganda and former Chancellor of Makerere University, Rt. Hon. Prof. Apolo Robin Nsibambi launched two sustainability projects initiated by the Makerere University Convocation (MUC) namely the Annual Chancellors’ Dinner and the Ivy League Alumni Register.
The Makerere University Convocation comprises over 300,000 Makerere University Old Students and Staff. Most of Makerere University alumni, who have passed through its gates, are now global citizens who would play a key role in determining the future of Makerere University.
The Makerere University Convocation Executive chaired by Dr. Tanga Odoi has embarked on plans to build a solid foundation for a stronger and functional old students and staff association at Makerere University.
Speaking about the two sustainability projects, the Chairperson of the Makerere University Convocation, Dr. Tanga Odoi said that the Annual Chancellors’ Dinner presents an opportunity to the old students, staff and friends of Makerere University to interact with their Chancellors. During this dinner, the old students, staff, and friends from all walks of life will have an opportunity and space to express their gratitude and appreciation for what Makerere has done. This can be done through donations and direct financial contributions to any cause of the university.
Dr. Tanga Odoi informed the audience in the Main Hall that the Ivy League Alumni Register will be signed by alumni, staff and students who will have significantly contributed to Makerere University causes. “The Makerere University convocation will give special recognition to the individual as having been an important Alumna or Alumnus. The register will have a permanent place in the Makerere University Main Hall and will be kept under lock and key. The signing function will be accompanied with full honors like the Chancellor’s procession, University Anthem and the presence of Alumni, Staff or Friends and Family,” he added.
Dr. Tanga Odoi also confirmed the Convocation’s plans to build a functional database of old students, and create long term partnerships with both local and international organizations that have interest in supporting Makerere University to fulfill her core objectives.
The Guest of Honour, Prof. Nsibambi delivered a keynote speech on Makerere University’s Future and the Role of Makerere University Convocation. Prof. Nsibambi said that the Convocation should be able to mobilize resources, as well as fund and implement the University’s activities in relation to its core functions. Citing core functions such as teaching, research, innovation and enhancing frontiers of knowledge, Prof. Nsibambi explained that Uganda is faced with a number of social, environmental and economic problems that require scholarly attention. This attention would then result into theoretical and empirical findings that can in turn serve as a basis of making viable policies.
“Without undermining what Makerere University is doing in research and laying further emphasis on the importance of research, I want to recommend that the institution must emphasize transformational research and carry out innovations that benefit the national social-economic and political trends of our society. Makerere University must embrace technology and knowledge transfer policy. Under such policy, staff will be encouraged to engage in research resulting into knowledge and technologies that can support our young and ever growing economy. Additionally, you also have to consider the protection of these research innovations by patenting them so that they may not be plagiarized,” he emphasized.
He also enlightened that universities should recognize a need for cooperation with industry in support of research innovation and public services which consists of a variety of activities, including the following;
• Direct funding of research cost through contracts and grants
• Formal licensing to industry of university–owned patents and technology
• Gifts and endowments (including endowment chairs designated for Colleges, Schools Departments or individuals)
• University-industry exchange programs and student internships specialized programs designed by the university for continuing education and training of professionals, primarily through university extension
• Participation of industry representatives on university forum such as the University Council
• Cooperative research projects. Some of which include government participation and the use of specialized facilities. Each unit can enter into a partnership to conduct research and produce a policy for government
• Use of unique university facilities on a fee-for-service basis. such facilities such as incubation centers, state of art laboratories for private researchers and specialized retreat and scholarly centers as well as fee charged on use of special library services by surrounding emerging institutions
• Research and development facilities of industries housed on University property such as industrial parks like the Silicon Valley at University of California
• Faculty consulting services
• Research activities of the Agricultural Experiment Stations and affiliated stations.
To achieve the aforementioned activities excellently, Prof. Nsibambi said that the Makerere University Convocation should be able to work with the University Management and Academic Staff in ensuring that students are disciplined and their problems addressed.
“You also need to put in place a mechanism for recognizing Alumni and staff who contribute to Makerere University. The Alumni of Makerere can also be invited to give lectures on topical issues such as terrorism, hooliganism and unemployment. Such and many other creative projects can make Makerere University Convocation relevant and strong,” Prof. Nsibambi advised.
The Makerere University Chancellor Professor Mondo Kagonyera, encouraged the Makerere University Convocation Executive (2012-2019) chaired by Dr. Tanga Odoi to uphold the zeal that they have portrayed since their election into office. He urged them to put all their efforts together so as to mobilize all members of the convocation and propel Makerere University to greater heights.
“Your duty as a convocation is to mobilize the Alumni, staff and well wishers to support the welfare and progress of Makerere University. I believe that if you effectively pursue this mandate, the convocation will take its place as one of the important assets of the university,” the Chancellor emphasized.
Prof. Kagonyera also pointed out the need to construct a permanent and befitting perimeter wall around Makerere University, an idea Dr. Tanga Odoi and his executive welcomed with great enthusiasm.
In his speech, the Vice Chancellor applauded the Makerere University Convocation Executive for the wonderful ideas that will help the university actualize its dreams and help members to rekindle the memories of the time spent at their alma mater.
“We therefore invite you to actively participate whenever we call upon you. We need your ideas, participation, support and good will. As a university, we have several projects lined-up, which require our joint efforts. Key among these is the construction of a one-stop students’ center. This is a flagship project toward marking the Makerere University’s Centennial Anniversary. We are banking on the support of our Convocation, alumni, friends, well wishers and development partners in their various capacities to make this dream a reality,” he said.
Chaired by Dr. Tanga Odoi, the new Makerere University Convocation Executive (2015-2019) comprises, Mrs. Diana. T. Nyago-Vice Chairperson, Mr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi-Publicity Secretary, Mr. Justus Nuwajuna-Treasurer, and committee members including; Mr. Dennis Namara, Mr. Richard Olando, Mr. Spenser Oyes, Ms. Juliet Nakalema, Ms. Faith Kirungi, Ms. Najjuka Margret, and Mr. Kamya Bazilio.
Story by: Prossy Nabatte-Intern, Public Relations Office
Photos by: Landmark Media Consultancy Ltd
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General
Impact Stories: Meet Malvin Akwara, a Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program alumna, who is dedicated to promoting inclusive education
Published
3 days agoon
October 25, 2025
Malvin Akwara obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education, specialising in English Language and Literature, from Makerere University in 2023, with support from the Mastercard Foundation. Since graduating, she has developed a passion for helping young people with disabilities access education at both secondary and university levels.
Who is Malvin Akwara
Malvin was born on 22nd November 1998 in Tororo, Eastern Uganda, into a family of six children (three girls and three boys). Shortly afterwards, the family moved to Kampala, where her father worked as an accountant. In 2009, her father lost his job, marking the beginning of a difficult period for the entire family. When her father who was the only breadwinner lost his job, the family returned to Tororo because they could no longer afford the high cost of living in the city.
Early Education
At the age of three, Malvin began her early childhood education at Clever Junior School in Kitintale, a Kampala suburb, where she attended Nursery School through Primary Three. Here, life was quite good, and she enjoyed being dropped off and picked up by her father, as was typical of most Kampala middle-class families. Unfortunately, it was not long before life took a different twist when her father lost his job and the family moved back to Tororo. In Tororo, she joined Morukebu Primary School, where she sat for her Primary Seven Leaving Examinations. Unlike her experience of a reasonably good life at school in Kampala, she had to walk long distances to and from school (14 kilometres each way) with her siblings, because her father could no longer afford to take them. The family had taken to subsistence farming to earn a living. The family worked together on the farm to grow food for home consumption and to sell some to pay school fees.
Pursuing Secondary Education
With her hard-earned 15 points from the Primary Leaving Examinations, Malvin embarked on her journey towards secondary education. She attended St. John’s Wakitaka in Jinja for her O-level from 2013 to 2016. However, in 2015, just before sitting her Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations, her father passed away due to peptic ulcers. His death devastated the already struggling family, and life became even harder. Left in the care of her single mother, with no steady source of income, Malvin and her siblings’ prospects looked bleak. Her father’s passing significantly affected her final results; she scored 39 points, which was poor compared to her earlier performance. With support from her paternal uncle, she later joined Budini Boarding Secondary School in Kaliro district, where she scored 14 points in History, Economics, Literature, and Divinity in 2018. By then, her other siblings had dropped out of school due to lack of fees, as their mother could not afford to keep them in school. To make matters worse, family disputes arose when her father’s relatives evicted her mother from the family land, leaving them homeless and with only enough land to grow food for their own consumption.
Pursuing University Education
With 14 points in her 2018 Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations, Malvin was hopeful about pursuing her university education with the support of her paternal uncle, who had helped her through A-level. Unfortunately, that hope was short-lived when her uncle shared the difficult news that he could not afford to send her to university because he needed to support his own children financially. The news was a significant setback to her dreams of being the first girl in her family to attend university. Unable to join a university at that time, Malvin embarked on a journey to find small jobs to support her mother and help the family.
It was during her job search that she came to Kampala to work for a family as a house help, mainly caring for her boss’ mother, who was in her sickbed at Kiruddu Hospital. During the three months she spent in the hospital as a caretaker, she learnt about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University through one of the family’s children, who was studying there.
Joining the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University
Armed with the necessary information about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, Malvin applied in 2019 and was delighted to be selected. Soon after, she was given the opportunity to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Education, specialising in English Language and Literature. While at university, Malvin did not forget her family back home in Tororo. She allocated part of her stipend to support her mother and to ensure her siblings returned to school. During her second year at university in 2020, the global COVID-19 pandemic struck the world, bringing everything to a halt, including education at the university.

When Malvin was grounded at home, just as all her colleagues were, she didn’t let the misery that came with COVID-19 break her down; instead, she used it as an opportunity to support people in her community who were facing social and economic barriers to opportunities. Using her little savings, she started a piggery project to help single mothers in her community by giving them piglets to rear, multiply, and distribute to others experiencing similar challenges.
The piggery project helped several single mothers send their children to school. It is through this piggery project that Malvin came across Omukaga Samuel, a young person living with a disability who had been out of school because his parents could not afford to pay his school fees. With support from the piggery project, Malvin worked together with Samuel’s parents to help their son return to school. This experience with Omukaga Samuel ignited Malvin’s passion for supporting learners living with disabilities to access education.

Life After Makerere University
Upon graduating in 2023, Malvin immediately found a position teaching English Language and Literature at Elite High School, one of Kampala’s top secondary schools. At this school, Malvin has grown into a professional teacher, career advisor, and mentor to many young people both within and outside the school.
Through mentorship, she has focused on supporting young people living with disabilities to return to school by helping them secure bursaries for secondary education and apply for scholarships to access university. For example, she assisted Omukaga Samuel in applying for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, where he is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Adult and Community Education, as well as Patricia Namiwanda, who is presently studying for a Master’s degree in Human Rights at Makerere University, all thanks to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

Malvin has also used her resources to build a decent house for her mother, where she now lives with her siblings in Manafwa District, Eastern Uganda, restoring hope after the family lost their home due to land disputes.

Impact on the Community
As the first-generation girl to achieve a university education, Malvin has inspired many young girls in her home district of Tororo to pursue further studies and has continued to support them through peer mentorship. Although she works and resides in Kampala, she travels home every Friday to meet and mentor young girls in secondary schools, encouraging them to stay in school and avoid early marriage, which remains a significant challenge for many young girls in Tororo and across Eastern Uganda.

In addition, her piggery project has expanded across the entire district, improving the economic well-being of many participants in her community.
Looking into the Future
Malvin is optimistic about a bright future ahead, judging by the progress she has made in her life. She is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Education with a specialization in Languages at Makerere University. She aspires to specialise in curriculum development and work with the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC) to design an inclusive curriculum that will help young people living with disabilities access meaningful education in Uganda. She also envisions building a school in her community that will specifically support young people living with disabilities to attain inclusive, quality education.

Message to Fellow Young Women
Malvin urges young women not to despair or give up in the face of difficult situations.
“I urge my fellow young women not to give up or despair when faced with difficult situations. They should always challenge themselves to emerge stronger from such circumstances.” Malvin shares.
Words of Gratitude
Malvin expressed gratitude to the Mastercard Foundation for the support that enabled her to attain a quality university education at Makerere University.
“If it were not for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, I wouldn’t have attained a university education. I am therefore grateful and humbled for the opportunity extended to me and other Mastercard Foundation Scholars through this life-changing program.” Malvin remarked.
Malvin further urged the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team at Makerere University and other Mastercard Foundation partners to reach out to distant areas so that more young people facing social and economic barriers can also access university education.
Bernard Buteera is the Principal Communications Officer for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
General
Mak Endowment Fund 3rd Board of Trustees Inaugurated
Published
5 days agoon
October 23, 2025By
Eve Nakyanzi
The 3rd Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) has been officially inaugurated in a ceremony presided over by Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council on 23rd October 2025, and moderated by the Secretary to the Board, Mr. Emmanuel Kitamirike
In her address, Mrs. Magara commended the outgoing board, led by Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi, for their remarkable stewardship that saw the Fund grow from UGX 8.66 billion in 2021 to UGX 14.54 billion in 2025. She underscored the Endowment Fund’s vital role in ensuring the University’s financial sustainability amidst fluctuating public funding, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to providing policy and institutional support. Mrs. Magara further urged the incoming Board to uphold transparency, strengthen alumni engagement, and pursue innovative investment strategies to expand the Fund’s impact as Makerere continues to build for the future.

Board composition
The newly inaugurated 3rd Board of Trustees (2025–2029) brings together a team of distinguished professionals whose expertise spans business, academia, finance, governance, and social advocacy. Notably, some members have been reappointed in recognition of their exceptional service and contribution to the Fund’s growth during the previous term. The Board is chaired by Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi, a seasoned business leader and former Executive Director of the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA). She is joined by accomplished members including Ms. Jennifer Mwijukye, CEO and founder of Unifreight Cargo Handling Limited; Mr. Ninsiima John Chris, Director of Programmes at NUDIPU and member of the Makerere University Council; Mr. Kenneth Mugambe, former Director of Budget at the Ministry of Finance; Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Makerere University’s Academic Registrar and Professor of Forestry Resource Economics; and Mr. Sam Ayesiga, a governance and investment expert with vast experience across Africa. Their diverse backgrounds and renewed commitment are expected to steer the Fund toward even greater stability, innovation, and impact in the years ahead.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, commended the outgoing Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund for their exceptional service marked by growth, innovation, and accountability. She noted that the growth of the fund to UGX 14 billion is a clear testament to strategic vision, prudent management, and confidence in Makerere University’s long-term sustainability. Prof. Ssali praised the Board for initiatives that have united thousands of alumni, staff, and partners, notably through the Makerere Run, which has supported disability inclusion and empowerment.

She also recognized the introduction of the MakAdvance digital platform as a milestone in promoting efficiency and transparency. She welcomed the incoming Board, and challenged the new team to grow the Fund beyond UGX 25 billion through deeper engagement, innovative fundraising, and stronger partnerships. She reaffirmed Management’s commitment to supporting the Fund within robust governance frameworks that inspire stakeholder confidence, emphasizing the shared vision of building a financially resilient Makerere University.
During the handover ceremony, Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi, the Chairperson, reflected on the remarkable progress achieved under the 2021–2025 term, noting the Fund’s growth from UGX 8.66 billion to UGX 14.54 billion — a 68% increase despite global economic challenges. She highlighted key milestones including the institutionalization of the Makerere Run, establishment of the Makerere Gift and Souvenir Shop, launch of The Legacy e-newsletter, and the creation of the Jawaher Fund for the Advancement of Women’s Education, supported by NAMA Establishment in the UAE. Dr. Kigozi expressed gratitude to the outgoing Trustees and reaffirmed her commitment, alongside the new Board, to advance transformative projects such as the construction of the Makerere University Students’ Centre and development of the Makindye land. She emphasized that the Fund’s goal remains to build a financially sustainable Makerere University capable of supporting innovation, research, and academic excellence for generations to come.

At the inauguration, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta underscored the Fund’s central role in ensuring Makerere’s financial sustainability and institutional legacy. He described the Endowment Fund as a cornerstone of the University’s vision—an instrument through which Makerere secures its future, strengthens its independence, and sustains strategic investments in teaching, research, and innovation. He extended heartfelt appreciation to the outgoing Board, chaired by Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi, for their dedicated service and strong leadership that fortified the Fund’s governance, fundraising, and asset management.
Welcoming the new Board, he congratulated the members on their appointment and urged them to continue expanding and mobilizing resources with integrity and innovation. He reaffirmed his office’s commitment to providing administrative and financial support to ensure that the Fund thrives beyond annual budgetary constraints, contributing meaningfully to Makerere’s vision of becoming a research-led, financially resilient, and globally respected institution.
The Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) was established to secure the University’s financial sustainability by mobilizing, investing, and managing resources to support its core functions of teaching, research, and innovation. Originating from donations made as early as the 1930s, the Fund has evolved into a strategic vehicle that aims to reduce dependence on public funding. It is governed by a Board of Trustees appointed by the University Council, responsible for overseeing investments and resource mobilization. Through initiatives like alumni engagement, digital giving, and events such as the Makerere Run, the Fund continues to grow and strengthen Makerere’s vision of being a research-led and financially resilient institution.
The Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) Board of Trustees on 23rd October 2025 during the 15th Annual General Meeting declared an interest on 13.56% on Members balances for the Financial Year 2024/2025. Held in the Main Hall for the first time since the Main Building’s reconstruction, the AGM was a chance for the Board of Trustees led by Dr. Michael Kizito to showcase the dedication, strategic initiatives and resilience that had enabled the fund to grow by 16.2% from UGX 409.2 billion as at 30th June 2024 to UGX 475.5 billion as at 30th June 2025.
MURBS asset classes and contributions
Some of these strategic initiatives included investing 86.4% of MURBS’ portfolio in long-term Ugandan Government Bonds. This decision was in line with the Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority (URBRA)’s approved waiver, allowing investment of up to 90% in this asset class. Investments in other asset classes included Unit Trusts (10.3%), Real Estate (3.19%), as well as Equities and Fixed Deposits at 0.08% each.
Additional contributors to the fund growth included the remittances from the Sponsor, Makerere University, which grew by 6.4% from UGX 34.4 billion to UGX 36.6 billion. Of particular significance were remittances from staff on projects amounting to UGX 4.59 billion, attracting the Chairperson’s commendation.
“MURBS Trustees appreciate the Sponsor’s compliance and are grateful for the engagements so far to settle historical debts” enthused Dr. Kizito, before adding “We equally recognize Principal Investigators, Accountants and College Principals who remitted to MURBS retirement contributions for their staff on contract and under different projects.” Thirteen new projects were registered by MURBS during the last quarter of FY 2024/2025, bringing the total number of projects remitting staff benefits to the Scheme to 174.

Membership and savings
As such, the number of MURBS Members actively contributing to the scheme grew from 3,137 last year to 3,368 as at 30th June 2025. Of these, the majority i.e. 1,648 (48.93%) had savings below UGX 50 million, followed by 524 (15.56%) with savings between UGX 500 and 550 million. The minority i.e. 1 (0.03%) member has the highest savings between UGX 650 and 700 million, followed by 2 (0.06%) with savings between UGX 600 and 650 million.
Retirement of staff is a normal practice and as such, MURBS paid benefits worth UGX 21.7 billion last financial year. As alarming as this figure was, the Chairperson reassured members that the rise in benefits paid is a normal trend “because it corresponds to rise in the value of individual holdings for members.
“Our retirement benefits packages now include partial withdrawals after retirement, annuity arrangement with reputable industry partners, and Mid-Term Access,” explained Dr. Kizito.
Milestones registered
MURBS registered a number of achievements during the last financial year in its bid to ensure transformative growth. These included completion of a benchmarking process that will see the procurement and introduction of a modern Management Information System (MIS) to strengthen operational efficiency. The Chairperson equally announced that the MURBS Mobile App had been developed and is ready for deployment. The App, he added, will “dramatically enhance the member experience by offering instant access to benefit calculators, account information, and real-time statements.”

Other milestones highlighted by Dr. Kizito included the implementation of Document Management System (DMS) for efficient records management, and the acquisition of new office premises to accommodate the scheme’s growth and offer more member-focused services. On this note, the Chairperson appreciated the Makerere University Council and Management for their support in ensuring that MURBS continues to deliver “an enabling environment that promotes productivity, accessibility, and efficiency for both members and staff.”
Sector Regulator applauds MURBS Trustees
Speaking on behalf of URBRA, Mr. Mark Lotukei commended MURBS Trustees on leveraging sector rules to ensure that members receive the best return on investment for their benefits. “From this year’s presentation, your funds were invested more than 80% in government securities, which shows that your trustees were proactive enough to take advantage of shifts in the marketplace” he commended.
Mr. Lotukei urged MURBS members to use the platform provided by the AGM to not only question the Trustees decisions but also improve their own awareness of how scheme business is conducted. He equally encouraged members to make the most of the regular free online trainings provided by URBRA. “Those two hours could change a lot in terms of enabling you to plan better for your retirement”.
A pledge to continue delivering value
True to Mr. Lotukei’s encouragement, the AGM was concluded with a lively question and answer session, where members thoroughly probed the Trustees on various issues presented in the annual report. In addition to the Chairperson, other Trustees namely; the Board Secretary – CPA Francesca Angida Mugyema and Members – Mr. Joseph Ikarokok, Dr. Elizabeth Nansubuga, Mr. George Bamugemereire, and CPA Edna Rugumayo were on hand to provide responses, while Trustee Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi moderated the session.

In addition to Trustees, the Board’s co-opted experts include; CPA David Ssenoga, Dr. Saul Nsubuga, Mr. Alan Lwetabe, and Mr. Paul Kuteesa. The Board of Trustees is supported in the daily running of Scheme business by the Secretariat that is made up of; Ms. Susan Khaitsa, Ms. Juliet Nabukeera, Ms. Julian Marembo, Mr. Marvin Kakumba, Ms. Rhonah Asingwiire, Ms. Rebecca Nairuba, and Ms. Doreen Namono.
In closing, the Chairperson reassured Members of the MURBS’ Trustees unwavering commitment to continue focusing on optimizing operations, enhancing revenue streams through alternative investments, and delivering value to stakeholders.
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