Makerere University Academic Registrar Mr. Alfred Namoah Masikye has advised students to respect and adhere to the university rules and regulations if they are to excel in their academics. Addressing the second cohort of the Makerere University MasterCard Foundation (MCF) Scholarship Program recipients on 12th September 2015 in the Makerere University Senate Conference Hall, Mr. Masikye said that following the University rules, guarantees a favorable learning environment and guidelines to help students achieve their academic goals and objectives. He therefore urged Scholars to always fulfill their academic responsibilities and obligations to enable the smooth running of the university activities.
“You are purposely here for academics. Looking thoroughly at your admission letters, they clearly state that you are admitted on the academic program not anything else. Therefore as students of Makerere University, you have some responsibilities and obligations to follow. It is your responsibility to fulfill all the registration procedures so as to ensure that you are part and parcel of the university community. And to register, you should have paid the tuition and functional fees. I am glad that MCF will take care of all the dues. On your part, ensure that you attend all lectures, do all coursework, tests and the final exam,” he explained.
Mr. Masikye congratulated students upon their admission to Makerere University and assured the freshers that they made the right choice to join the best university in Africa. He nevertheless cautioned students on bad behavior and hooliganism saying that such acts can result into expulsion from the university as well as the termination of their scholarship awards.
Reiterating the essence of rules and regulations, Makerere University Dean of Students Mr. Cyriaco Kabagambe encouraged students to consider academics as one of the duties they have to perform as respectable citizens of Uganda.“I advise you to utilize the rights and privileges you, have to study. You have been enrolled on a scholarship program to facilitate your right to education. Therefore treasure that has been given to you and do what is expected of you,” he said.
Mr. Henry Nsubuga- Manager Counselling and Guidance Centre (CGC) tipped students on how to overcome University Challenges, have a balanced social life and excel in academics. Speaking to over 49 students, Mr. Nsubuga said that students face many challenges; peer pressure being the major one. He confirmed that such challenges have led the growing rate of school dropouts among university students.
“Guard yourself against these vices if you want to attain your goal of studying. Be the master of your past, present and the future. Let’s not criticize ourselves because this is the beginning. Always remember these words: I can still move on, I am not the only person. Lastly mind a lot about the positive things you have achieved,” Mr. Nsubuga advised.
Emphasizing the need to participate in leadership and students social affairs, Makerere University Guild President H.E Bala David encouraged students not to ignore other university activities. “Although the cardinal reason is academics, you should also join other curriculums and social networks. This will help you add value to yourself. I advise you to discover your talent and area of interest. Leadership is one of the great opportunities you have at Campus and when God has called you to be a leader you must exercise your talent,” he remarked.
The students also received an inspirational talk from Dr. Anthony Muggaga, Deputy Principal, College of Education and External Studies (CEES). In his address entitled ‘What it means to be a successful recipient of a MasterCard Scholarship’, Mr. Mugaaga reminded students of the great oppoutunity they attained to study at Makerere University and being funded under MasterCard Foundation. He therefore advised students to defend, protect and fully utilize the chance in order to achieve their goals and objectives.
“Always learn to go beyond academics, seek for more opportunities and discover your talent. Opportunities come once but they are never brought to your face. Look for them and utilize them,” Dr. Muggaga urged the students.
The MCF Coordinator Dr. Florence Nakayiwa, thanked all the facilitators for the wonderful message they passed on to the students. Dr. Nakayiwa said that the information given will create a smooth and favorable environment for the students to have an enjoyable stay at campus and understand their responsibilities and rights as Makerere students as well as MCF Scholars. She therefore encouraged students to fully utilize the opportunity they had been availed to study hard and achieve their goals and objectives.
“Your responsibility here is to study. You have come to Makerere University to get a degree, so make sure you leave this place with a degree. We want 100% pass rate and this should be put deep in your mind since you are entirely responsible for sitting the exams. Our role is to provide you with the conducive environment and total support so that you can attain that. In this case I urge you to read hard and achieve your personal, the University’s as well as the Foundation’s expectations. I will be proud to stand here and announce that all of you have graduated with the upper second degree and above,” Dr. Florence told the students.
The orientation climaxed with the awarding ceremony during which the Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu, awarded letters to the 49 first year Scholars. These letters are the confirmation that the recipients are Makerere University students under the MasterCard Foundation Program. Students will use the letters to introduce themselves to their Colleges as well as gain access to university facilities.
Article by Nabatte Proscovia; Mak Public Relations Office
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.
“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.
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.
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 Government of Uganda and AFRISA in Collaboration with Makerere University invites applicants for Diploma and Certificate programs tenable at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-security (COVAB).
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”.
MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi.
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. Maggie Kigozi shows her support for #MakRun2025.
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. Barnabas Nawangwe makes his remarks.
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.
Mr. Mark Muyobo makes his remarks at the press conference.
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.”
Runners get flagged off for an evening run after the unveiling ceremony.
#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.
Mr. Mark Muyobo (L) and Dr. Maggie Kigozi (R) pose with the signed MoU.
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.
Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance.