General
Xiangtan University hails Makerere University for promoting multilingualism
The President of Xiangtan University Prof. Huang Yunqing has appreciated Makerere University for teaching and promoting Chinese language in Uganda.
President Prof. Yunqing made the remarks when he paid a courtesy call on the Acting Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Dr. Ernest Okello Ogwang on Tuesday 15th December 2015 in the Office of the Vice Chancellor from 10:30am to 11:20am. The Courtesy Call preceded the celebrations of the one year Anniversary of the Confucius Institute at Makerere University scheduled to take place on the same day in the Main Hall.
Accompanied by Eight (8) delegates from China, Prof. Huang thanked Makerere University for being a spring board for Chinese language and culture in Uganda.
“The support you have rendered to the Confucius Institute at Makerere University has enabled us to promote and teach Chinese language and culture, as well as developing and strengthening the China-Uganda political, social, cultural and business relationship in Uganda,” said Prof. Huang Yunqing.
Since its inauguration on Friday 19th December 2015, the Confucius Institute at Makerere University has opened up various branches in Uganda to offer courses to the general public interested in learning Chinese. The Institute is also well known for promoting cultural and business ties between the people of Uganda and China.
On behalf of Makerere University, Dr. Ernest Okello Ogwang equally thanked the Government of the People’s Republic of China and Xiangtan University, for supporting the Confucius Institute at Makerere University.
“Many of our students and staff have greatly benefited from learning Chinese language at the Institute. They have attained knowledge and information on Chinese culture, won scholarships to study in China and some of them have been employed in Chinese companies in Uganda,” he said.
Dr. Ernest Okello Ogwang who is also the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) added that Makerere University would work hand in hand with the Xiangtan University and the Chinese Embassy in Uganda to ensure that the Confucius Institute achieves its objectives of spreading Chinese culture, promoting the Chinese language as well as the Uganda-China friendship.
In the same spirit, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe applauded the Government and People of China for the reception and support always accorded to Ugandans who pursue studies in China.
The Ugandan Director-Confucius Institute at Makerere University Prof. Oswald Ndoleriire highlighted that Makerere University has benefited from the long term collaboration with a number of Chinese Universities, engaged and interacted with several experts to promote the learning of international languages.
In memory of the continued collaboration, the delegates from China and Makerere University officials exchanged souvenirs and gifts.
Other officials who attended the Courtesy Call include: Prof. Hong Yonghong, Chinese Director-Confucius Institute at Makerere University; Prof. Oswald Ndoleriire, Ugandan Director- Confucius Institute at Makerere University; Mr. Rodney RugyemaAdministrator-Confucius Institute at Makerere University, Mrs. Mary Tizikara, Director-Human Resources Makerere University; Mr. Goddy Muhumuza-Senior Legal Officer; and Ms Ritah Namisango, Senior Public Relations Officer.
After the Courtesy Call, Prof. Oswald Ndoleriire and Prof. Hong Yonghong led the Xiangtan University delegates, to tour the premises of the Confucius Institute at Makerere University. The Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Edward K. Kirumira together with his family then hosted the Xiangtan University delegates and the team from the Confucius Institute to a sumptuous luncheon at his official residence.
Written by: Charles Iga and Proscovia Nabatte, Interns-Mak Public Relations Office.
Edited by: Ritah Namisango,Senior Public Relations Officer, Makerere University
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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