General
One Thousand Students to Benefit from the Mak- Mastercard Partnership
Makerere University has signed US$20,989,965.15 contract with MasterCard Foundation to sponsor 1000 students who are academically bright but economically disadvantaged youth from Africa to study at Makerere University from 2013 to 2023. The contract, signed by Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba- Ssentamu and Peggy Woo Chief Financial Officer, MasterCard Foundation, was officially exchanged on 1st September 2015 at a ceremony in Senate building, Makerere University.
According to Dr. Florence Nakayiwa, the Coordinator of Makerere University – MasterCard Foundation Program, this project will help in developing the next generation of African Leaders and also promote the strategic objectives of Makerere University and MasterCard Foundation in contributing to Africa's higher education sector and development.
“The project is also aligned to the visions and missions of the two organisations categorised under academics with the aim of transforming African leaders to address societal needs, “she said.
MasterCard foundation is a global, independent foundation which advances youth learning and promotes inclusion so as to catalyse prosperity in developing countries. The foundation is committed to its vision of educating young people who are dedicated to the betterment of their communities.
In an earlier meeting with the Vice Chancellor, delegates from MasterCard Foundation Ms. Ivy Mwai and Ms. Grace Hui discussed the terms of the contract upon which the project will be implemented. The team highlighted that the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University is a six cohort scholars program with the first cohort of 50 Scholars recruited for the 2014/2015 academic year. The program is offering comprehensive student support, that include;
- Tuition and Functional fees
- Accommodation, Feeding and stipend
- Laptop, books and other learning materials,
- Transport to and from home
- Medical insurance
- Psychosocial support and mentoring of scholars
- Capacity building program for life skills development in ICT, Leadership, Gender, Human Rights, Communication, Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy.
Ms. Ivy Mwai- MasterCard Foundation representative based in Kenya acknowledged Makerere University’s legacy in academic excellence and leadership training skills which have mentored several academicians and leaders. Ms Mwai said that Makerere’s historical relationship with Kenya will never be undermined due to the fact that the institution mentored the country’s prominent Presidents who have led to tremendous change in Kenya and the rest of Africa.
“We are therefore happy to have Makerere University on board. We believe that with you and your historical legacy we shall build a well informed and skilfully capable Africa,” she said.
Speaking to the Vice Chancellor, Ms. Grace Hui unveiled the Global Network of Education Institutions and non-profit organisations, a new program to MasterCard Foundation. Ms. Hui said that the growing network will document and share best practices to identify, educate and mentor students and transition them into work force.
“Partners in Global Network of Education Institutions and non-profit organisations are selected for their shared values, academic excellence, nurturing environments, and programs relevant to developing countries. I therefore encourage Makerere University to actively participate in this network so as to gain more recognition from the partner sponsors,” she stated.
The team also interacted with over 80 students sponsored under the MasterCard Foundation program. The students their life and academic experiences, engaged in discussions and debates. The Scholars thanked MasterCard Foundation for investing in their education, an opportunity that will enable them to positively change the world.
“If it was not for MasterCard scholarship program, I wouldn’t have been here. Since my childhood I have always wanted to study and reach Makerere University. However my dream had been washed away after the death of my mother when I was only 9 years. I was left in the hands of my grandfather who also died when I had just joined O-level. At this point I lost all the hope of continuing with my studies. However, my hope was raised by MasterCard when they funded my O and A level education and I am glad that I managed to score highly in my A-level results and the program enrolled me to Makerere University. I sincerely thank MasterCard Foundation for the support and care you have offered to us because from here I can now achieve my dream of being an engineer,” said Robinah Anyikuru, second-year student of Bachelors of Commerce.
During this meeting Ms. Mwai encouraged students to focus on their academics in order to achieve their goals. She explained that the students’ achievements will determine the success of the project’s main objectives.
“So success is to all of us. If you succeed, the project succeeds and the same to MasterCard. It excites me to meet the people we are doing this project for therefore we want to see you engaged. You are pursuing those degrees to be happy in future and it is all about you and how you maximise your opportunity. Together we can make the world we want to see,” she said.
Ms. Ivy Mwai encouraged the youth to work hard and develop Africa.
“Africa is rising. It is rising because of the young people. I am happy to see that Makerere University management is here. It is a testimony that you will confidently promote the MasterCard Foundation scholarship program," she said.
In a speech read by the Makerere University Academic Registrar Alfred Namoah Masikye, the Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu argued the beneficiaries not to take this opportunity for granted but rather work hard and excel in order to transform their lives.
“You are being nurtured to be the leaders of tomorrow who will have the skills and ability to transform the society. Your actions and behaviours will matter a lot in the course of your education and transitions," the Vice Chancellor remarked.
The function climaxed with a dinner organised at the Vice Chancellor’s Lodge. At the dinner, Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu presented a plaque to the MasterCard Foundation received by Ms. Ivy Mwai, in recognition of the institution’s great contribution to developing the next generation of African leaders by sponsoring bright but economically disadvantaged youth access quality higher education at Makerere University.
Giving a vote of thanks, the Dean, School of Women and Gender Studies and Member of the MCF Steering Committee, Dr. Josephine Ahikire in her vote of thanks said that the Steering Committee chaired by Makerere University Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) is committed to the success of the MasterCard Scholarship Program at Makerere University.
Dr. Ahikire added that the project presents Makerere University with an opportunity to produce role models for society and students who have been nurtured and given proper guidance.
Article: Mak Public Relations Office
Makerere University has reaffirmed its commitment to preventing sexual harassment and gender-based violence (GBV) by strengthening the capacity of members of the Vice Chancellor’s Roster of 100, a pool of trained staff that supports the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) in investigating sexual harassment cases across the University.
The one-day training, held on 30th June 2026, brought together members of the roster to deepen their understanding of sexual harassment prevention and response, strengthen investigative skills, and share practical experiences from previous investigations. The programme also sought to reinforce implementation of Makerere University‘s Policy and Regulations against Sexual Harassment (PRASH) while drawing lessons from institutions with extensive experience in handling gender-based violence.
Opening the training, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, urged members of staff to shift their focus from responding to incidents to preventing them altogether.
“Prevention is far better than waiting for cases to happen and then beginning investigations. Our focus should be on creating an environment where incidents of sexual harassment do not occur in the first place,” he said.
Prof. Alinaitwe observed that as educators and members of staff, university employees are expected to serve as role models both within the institution and in the wider community. He noted that the University’s safeguarding, gender and sexual harassment policies were developed to ensure that every member of the University community studies and works in a safe environment.
He explained that sexual harassment extends beyond physical acts and may be verbal, non-verbal or electronic, including inappropriate messages, photographs, videos and social media communication. He encouraged timely reporting of incidents and emphasized that all complaints should be handled professionally, fairly and confidentially.
“Become champions of prevention within your departments and units. Let us guide our students, colleagues and all those who interact with the University. Our responsibility does not end within the University gates. The values we promote here should also shape our conduct in our homes, workplaces and communities,” he urged.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor reminded participants that every incident of sexual harassment undermines trust and damages the University’s reputation.
“One case of sexual harassment is already one case too many. Every incident affects individuals, damages trust, and undermines our institution. We must therefore do everything possible to prevent such behaviour,” he emphasized.
Earlier, the Chief of the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Dr. Euzobia Baine, welcomed participants and stressed that the University’s priority is to prevent sexual harassment before it occurs.
“The most important message today is prevention and response—and I want to emphasize prevention, prevention, prevention. We should not wait for incidents to occur before we act,” she said.
Dr. Baine noted that while the University continues to strengthen its response mechanisms, members of the roster must possess the knowledge and skills to respond appropriately whenever cases arise.
“We want our students to have a positive experience throughout their time at the University, and we also want all members of staff to work in a safe and respectful environment,” she added.
Presenting the objectives of the Vice Chancellor’s Roster of 100, Dr. Lillian Tukahiirwa from the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate explained that the training was intended to create a common understanding of sexual harassment prevention and response, enable members to reflect on their roles, learn from previous investigation committees, strengthen implementation of PRASH, and benchmark with institutions such as the Uganda Police Force and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Participants also received presentations on understanding gender-based violence, the legal and policy framework governing investigations, and practical approaches to handling complaints.
Speaking on the legal framework, the University’s Director of Legal Affairs, Ms. Sumaiyah Nanyondo Sebuta, reminded members of the roster that investigating sexual harassment cases requires professionalism, impartiality and strict confidentiality.
“Every complaint deserves to be handled carefully because the consequences affect both the alleged victim and the alleged perpetrator,” she said.
She explained that committee members are guided by international conventions, Uganda’s Constitution, national legislation and Makerere University‘s own policies, all of which seek to protect human dignity, eliminate discrimination and ensure fair treatment during investigations.
Ms. Sumaiyah further emphasized that investigators must avoid conflicts of interest, base their decisions solely on evidence, and protect the identities of complainants, respondents and witnesses throughout the investigation process.
The training also featured presentations by Principal Gender Officer Eric Tumwesigye on understanding gender-based violence and by Senior Superintendent of Police Carolyne Kushemererwa of the Uganda Police Force, who shared lessons from investigating sexual harassment and gender-based violence cases. Participants explored reporting mechanisms, survivor-centred approaches, confidentiality, accountability and strategies for preventing sexual harassment within institutions.
The Vice Chancellor’s Roster of 100 forms a critical component of Makerere University‘s institutional response to sexual harassment. By equipping members with investigative skills, knowledge of legal and policy frameworks, and practical experience, the University continues to strengthen its commitment to fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for students, staff and the wider university community.
By Monica Meeme, Cynthia Ayaa Komakec and Eric Tumwesigye
Makerere University, through its Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD), in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Embassy of Sweden, UNESCO O3 Plus have successfully trained 250 Student Peer Trainers (SPTs) to strengthen student-led efforts in promoting gender equality and the prevention of gender-based violence.
The three-day capacity-building workshop, held from 5th to 7th May 2026, brought together selected student leaders from across the University and formed part of Makerere University’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and gender responsive learning environment. The training equipped participants with practical knowledge and skills to serve as peer educators, advocates, mentors, and referral points for students requiring support on gender-related issues.
The workshop covered a wide range of thematic areas, including the Makerere University Gender Equality Policy, the Policy and Regulations Against Sexual Harassment (PRASH), international, regional and national legal frameworks on gender equality, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), leadership development, effective communication, and student-led advocacy and action planning.
Facilitators included Susan Mbabazi, Principal Gender Officer; Eric Tumwesigye, Principal Gender Officer; Carol Abilat Gender Officer; Cynthia Ayaa Komakec Gender Officer; Dr. Richard Mwesigwa of UNFPA; Dr. Lilian Tukahira Assistant Administrator; and Judith Kiconco, Gender Officer.
Day One: Building Foundations for Gender Equality and Inclusion
The opening day commenced with welcome and opening remarks delivered by Ms. Susan Mbabazi, Acting Chief Gender Mainstreaming Officer; Ms. Laura Criado Lafuente, Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA); and Dr. Rodney Rugyema, Office of the Dean of Students, who represented the Vice Chancellor.
Speaking on behalf of UNFPA, Ms. Laura Criado Lafuente described the training as more than a workshop, characterising it as a movement designed to empower students to influence attitudes, behaviours, and social norms within their communities. She encouraged participants to challenge harmful practices, support survivors of gender-based violence, and serve as catalysts for positive change both within and beyond the University.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Rodney Rugyema emphasised that Makerere University’s mandate extends beyond academic excellence to ensuring the safety, well-being, and holistic development of its students. He urged participants to avoid harmful relationships, prioritise personal safety, and actively contribute to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive campus environment.
Dr. Rugyema further described Student Peer Trainers as the “eyes and ears” of the University community, underscoring their vital role in raising awareness, identifying emerging challenges, and mobilising collective action to prevent and address gender-based violence.
The first day of the workshop also introduced participants to the principles of gender equality, gender mainstreaming, and the institutional frameworks that guide Makerere University’s efforts to promote inclusion, equity, and student welfare.
Ms. Susan Mbabazi provided a historical overview of the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate and highlighted the University’s sustained commitment to creating an equitable and supportive academic environment. She also guided participants through the key provisions of the Policy and Regulations Against Sexual Harassment (PRASH), emphasising the University’s zero-tolerance stance on sexual harassment and all forms of gender-based violence.
Mr.Eric Tumwesigye facilitated a session on foundational gender concepts, enabling participants to deepen their understanding of gender dynamics, stereotypes, power relations, and the importance of promoting equality and inclusivity within university spaces.
A key highlight of the day was a presentation by Ms. Carol Abilat on the Makerere University Gender Equality Policy. She emphasised that gender equality is fundamentally rooted in fairness, dignity, and equal opportunity for all members of the University community, including marginalised groups and persons with disabilities.
Ms. Abilat further explained that the policy aligns with national development priorities and international commitments, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 on Gender Equality. Participants were introduced to critical concepts such as consent, sexual harassment, discrimination, gender blindness, and inclusive approaches to teaching, learning, leadership, and institutional management.
Day Two: Understanding Legal Frameworks and Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights
The second day focused on strengthening participants’ understanding of legal and policy frameworks that promote gender equality and protect individuals from discrimination, sexual harassment, and gender-based violence.
Facilitating the session on international, regional, and national legal frameworks, Cynthia Ayaa Komakec provided participants with a comprehensive overview of key human rights instruments and gender equality commitments.
At the international level, participants examined frameworks such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), and the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. Discussions highlighted how these instruments have shaped global efforts to eliminate discrimination and advance the rights and empowerment of women and girls.
The regional discussion focused on the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Protocol to the African Charter on the Rights of Women in Africa (Maputo Protocol), which provide important protections and promote women’s participation in social, economic, and political development across the continent.
The session also examined Uganda’s national legal and policy framework, including the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda (1995), the Uganda Gender Policy, and relevant provisions of the Penal Code Act.
A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the implementation gap that often exists between legal protections and actual practice. Participants explored the importance of accountability, institutional commitment, awareness creation, and community engagement in translating legal frameworks into meaningful outcomes.
The day also featured a session on Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) facilitated by Dr. Richard Mwesigwa from UNFPA.
Dr. Mwesigwa introduced participants to UNFPA’s mandate and mission before guiding them through key concepts relating to sexual health, reproductive health, rights, and access to services. The session addressed the importance of informed decision-making, consent, healthy relationships, prevention of gender-based violence, and available support mechanisms for students experiencing harassment or abuse.
Participants were also equipped with practical guidance on how Student Peer Trainers can provide information, make referrals, and support fellow students in accessing appropriate services and assistance.
Throughout the day, facilitators emphasised the need to position students as active change agents capable of promoting positive behavioural change within colleges, halls of residence, and wider communities.
Day Three: Partnerships, Leadership and Action Planning
The final day focused on strengthening peer leadership skills and equipping participants with practical tools for developing and implementing student-led initiatives.
Representatives from development partners reaffirmed the importance of youth leadership and collaborative action in addressing gender inequalities and preventing gender-based violence.
Addressing participants, Jessica Pellrud from the Embassy of Sweden emphasised that gender equality remains a critical pillar of sustainable development. She encouraged students to become long-term advocates for social transformation by challenging harmful norms, supporting survivors, and promoting inclusive participation among both women and men.
Eric Tumwesigye reflected on the growth of the Student Peer Trainers programme noting that the initiative has expanded from training 50 students annually to 250 peer educators. The expansion is intended to strengthen outreach and increase access to peer support services across the University.
He encouraged participants to integrate gender awareness into broader discussions on mental health, academic achievement, healthy relationships, and responsible digital engagement.
Facilitating the action-planning session, Dr. Lilian Tukahirwa guided participants through the process of designing practical and achievable interventions for their respective colleges. She emphasised the importance of creativity, flexibility, teamwork, and collaboration with academic staff and College leadership to ensure sustainable impact.
The workshop concluded with participants developing action plans aimed at promoting gender equality, preventing sexual harassment, and strengthening awareness and support mechanisms within their academic units.
Renewed Commitment to Student-Led Change
In his closing remarks, Eric Tumwesigye commended participants for their commitment, discipline, and active engagement throughout the three-day training programme. He also acknowledged the valuable contributions of facilitators and development partners, including UNFPA, and the Embassy of Sweden.
He announced that participants would undertake online evaluations and receive support in developing concept papers for college-based initiatives designed to promote gender equality and prevent sexual harassment.
Tumwesigye emphasised that while institutional support remains critical, the long-term success of the programme depends on sustained student leadership, ownership, and commitment.
The workshop concluded with a renewed pledge from the newly trained Student Peer Trainers to champion gender equality, support vulnerable students, and contribute to building a safer, more inclusive, and gender-responsive Makerere University community.
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