General
MasterCard Foundation awards 200 scholarships
It was a memorable afternoon on Friday 2nd September 2016, when 200 students who qualified for a comprehensive scholarship package under the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Programme at Makerere University convened in the Makerere University Main Hall to receive their Letters of Award.
“Joining Makerere University through the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Programme was a turning point in my life. I was admitted to study Bachelor of Science with Education. I see a bright future as a teacher who will aim at promoting the studying of sciences in the community. I want to act as a role model to those who are scared of sciences. It is good that I am studying education,” testified Beth Nanyama, one of the Cohort 3 Scholars.
Makerere University 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.
For the Academic Year 2016/2017, which started on 20th August 2016, 200 successful students were enrolled to study at Makerere University under the 3rd Cohort under the MasterCard Foundation (MCF) Scholars Programme at Makerere University. The programme officially started in the 2014/2015 academic year, with the 1st Cohort comprising 46 students who are currently in their third year of study. The 2nd Cohort Scholars admitted during the 2015/2016 academic year comprised 49 students.
Addressing the 3rd Cohort comprising 200 scholars, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu welcomed the scholars to Makerere University. He congratulated the successful Scholars upon attaining the scholarship that will not only enable them to access higher education, but also significantly contribute to the transformation of their lives.
Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu emphasized the need for academic excellence, advised the scholars to effectively utilize the resources and student support services provided under the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Programme at Makerere University and to associate with people who will add value to their academic and social life.
“Dear Scholars, you have been given everything to enable you excel. Both Makerere University and our partner the MasterCard Foundation, expect continued academic excellence from you. Failure to live up to our academic expectations will lead to discontinuation from this Scholarship programme. Neither Makerere University nor the MasterCard Foundation expects you to be discontinued. We are training you to be the next generation of achievers and leaders, who will be committed to service and giving back to your community,” remarked the Vice Chancellor.
Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu thanked Dr. Florence Nakayiwa and her Project Implementation team for professionally managing the Scholars programme. The Vice Chancellor reiterated the University Management’s commitment to supporting The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Programme at Makerere University.
The Programme Coordinator, Dr. Florence Nakayiwa explained that the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Programme at Makerere University is part of the wider global network of MasterCard Foundation Scholars. Ideologically, the program was designed to nurture the next generation of African leaders. There are partners in Ghana, South Africa, the Middle East, Europe and North America. Each year the programme issues a call for applications which climaxes with the selection of qualifying students.
“This year we have been able to register 21 international scholars from Rwanda, Burundi, Somalia, South Sudan, and Kenya. We have 75 scholars directly transiting from BRAC-our secondary school partner. The Cohort has 104 nationals from the wider Ugandan population. The female Scholars constitute 72% out of our target of 80%,” she highlighted.
According to the Chairperson of Selection Committee, MasterCard Foundation Scholars Programme at Makerere University, Dr. Aaron Mushengyezi, the selection process began in January, 2016 with the updating and approval of recruitment tools, publicity campaign in the newspapers and other media for the scholars to apply. Successful applicants were short listed and interviewed.
“We also did the home validation visits to ensure that those that were finally selected deserved the scholarships. That is how we were able to come up with the final list of the awardees. Out of the 2109 applicants, only 200 students were awarded. We went through a trauma to select only 200 participants,” he stated.
Dr. Mushengyezi also highlighted to the audience the several challenges the Selection team met while carrying out the selection process. Among the challenges the team encountered was ensuring equity in the awarding process.
“That’s why we had to visit the applicants’ homes unannounced such that we could do checks on the families, parents and their guardians to ensure that there were no masqueraders. We ensured that we were not awarding children of rich people,” he said.
“Another challenge we had during this process was the pain of seeing hundreds of deserving children being left out. We validated hundreds of them who really deserved the scholarships yet we had only 200 vacancies. We disappointed so many children and parents; we endured very many hours of seeing people crying before us but we really had nothing to do about this,” he added.
The Alternate Chairperson, Steering Committee Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe urged students to focus on their studies and aim for better grades so as to account for the sacrifices made by the sponsors of the program.
“Always remember the sacrifices made for you. Always remember that you have parents and people who have supported you to reach where you are now. Within three to five years, you will be leaving the gates of this University and I look forward to celebrating your graduation,” he said.-
The overjoyed audience comprising MCF Scholars, MCF Advisory Board, MCF Steering Committee, MCF Mentors, MCF Selection Committee, Members of Makerere University Council and Senate, Principals and Deputy Principals, parents, MCF Project Implementation Team and the media viewed a video clip by Reeta Roy, President and CEO of the MasterCard Foundation. The video clip featured a message on the objective and goals of the MasterCard Foundation including the importance of giving back to the community and youth leadership empowerment.
The Award Ceremony was also graced by the parents of some of the Scholars. Sharing an inspiration talk with the students, Ms. Nanyunja Joy- a mother to one of the Cohort 3 Scholars advised them to concentrate on their studies in order to meet the expectations of the sponsors and parents at large.
Ms. Nanyunja thanked Makerere University together with MasterCard Foundation for initiating a wonderful program that caters for the needy when she said, “We learnt about Master Card through my counselor who helps me on my health and social issues. She showed me a news paper and told me to tell the children to pick the application forms. They rushed and picked the forms and we did all the necessary. To my dream, we later saw a message on my daughter’s phone calling her for an interview. She came for the interview, and later one of the facilitators came to our home for assessment. And now, here we are. Thank you very much MasterCard Foundation and Makerere University for enabling quality education to our children.”
The audience also listened to testimonies from two MCF Scholars; Nanyama Beth a student of Bsc. Education (Biology, Chemistry), and Ndoli Mark an International Student from Rwanda (MasterCard Foundation Scholar at Makerere University).
The invited guests were treated to fascinating and awesome African traditional dances by students from the Department of Performing Arts and Film.
Article by: Mak News Reporters
On Saturday, 5th September 2026, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs urged the Makerere University community to actively engage in local philanthropy as a vital way to support vulnerable members of our society. Prof. Ssali shared this message during the Community Open Day for Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University, where Prof. Claire Mack Mugasa, Dean of the School of Biosecurity, Biotechnology, and Laboratory, represented her and served as the guest of honour.
At the event attended by Mastercard Foundation Scholars (Mak Students and Alumni), mentors, partners, and the broader university community, Prof. Ssali emphasised the importance of giving back to the community. She expressed her appreciation for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, highlighting their commitment to generosity. Prof. Ssali encouraged the entire university community to adopt similar practices, fostering a culture of social responsibility that shall positively influence and uplift surrounding communities.
“We gather here today not simply for an event, but for a statement of intent. The Community Open Day is a platform built on the conviction that education, paired with a spirit of national service, can transform not only individual lives but entire communities,” Prof. Ssali remarked. “I therefore call upon the Makerere University community to embrace the spirit of giving back to our communities. It is one of the ways through which the university will positively impact the less advantaged amongst us,” Prof. Ssali added.
Ms. Maria Mugerwa, the Head of Finance at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, who represented the Foundation at the event, emphasised that giving back to the community is at the core of everything the Foundation does.
“I thank you, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars community at Makerere University, for bringing us together for this Community Open Day, one of the activities that sits at the heart of Mastercard Foundation: using opportunities to create opportunities for others.” Ms. Mugerwa remarked.
“Today is about community, connection and giving back. Giving back doesn’t require big projects or significant resources; it simply requires identifying a problem in your community and asking yourself what I can do about it.” Ms. Mugerwa pointed out.
Rotarian Francis Wangi, the day’s keynote speaker, reminded the scholars and guests present of the importance of giving back to the community. He noted that individuals’ success is tied to others’ well-being.
“Let us always think about others: ‘I am because we are.’ Our individual success is tied to the well-being of our neighbours, our villages, and our nation.” Wangi noted.
Mr. Wangi reminded the gathering that giving back to the community was not an act of Charity; rather, it was a fundamental responsibility of leadership.
“Giving back to the less advantaged in our communities is not an act of charity; it is a fundamental responsibility of leadership. True influence is measured by how much we lift others as we rise.” Wangi emphasized.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, Program Director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, represented by Ms. Jolly Okumu, stated that the Foundation considers education as equipping and empowering transformative leaders, a means to prepare young people to use their skills and networks for meaningful contributions to their communities.
“The Mastercard Foundation believes that education goes beyond acquiring knowledge and qualifications; it is also about developing young people who are prepared to apply their knowledge, skills and networks to contribute meaningfully to their communities.” Prof. Namaalwa remarked.
Prof. Namaalwa applauded the Mastercard Foundation Scholars (Mak Students and Alumni) for embracing the spirit of giving back through tangible community projects. Highlighting that the community open day was an opportunity to celebrate the community impact to date and launch a journey of change for yet another disadvantaged community.
“As we gather today, we celebrate the long-term community impact through the many transformative projects delivered since 2015, and we, the Scholars Program Community at Makerere University, are here to continue on the same journey with yet another community; we are here to demonstrate that every individual has something to offer in the transformation of our communities,” Prof. Namaalwa noted.
Mr Paul Wandera Makhulo, the Chairperson of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Association at Makerere University, used the occasion to remind his fellow young people of the importance of giveback as one of the ethos of Mastercard Foundation.
“To my fellow Scholars, I make a special appeal: Let us own Giveback. Let us not see it as an initiative belonging only to your nominated Executive Committee or the Giveback Committee; let us see it as our responsibility as Scholars.” Wandera pointed out.
Mr. Elphas Khamala, the representative of the Scholars Council and Chairperson of the Giveback Committee, used the event to raise awareness of the 2026 Scholars Giveback Project. He said the project aims to raise UGX 86 million to build a two-classroom block with 60 bench desks, improve sanitation by constructing a ventilated pit latrine, and install a water-harvesting system at Eastern Gate Nursery and Primary School in Amuru District.
The school is in Pacilo parish, Atiak subcounty, Amuru district, about 8-10 km from the South Sudan border. It was established in 2023 as a community initiative and has not received external funding. It currently has about 164 learners, from nursery to Primary Seven, and 10 teachers, including children from the refugee communities.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and its partner initiative, the Africa Climate Collaborative, organised the Scholars Community Open Day in collaboration with DFCU Bank and other partners, including FINCA Bank, Tamani Solutions, and Katumba Estates.
Held under the theme “Together for Impact: Celebrating Innovations and Giveback,” the event brought together Scholars (Mak Students and Alumni), the university community, partners, and members of the public to celebrate community initiatives and gather support for the 2026 Scholars’ Annual Day of Service.
Of the targeted UGX 86 million, undergraduate and graduate Scholars and Program Team members will raise at least UGX 30 million, while the remaining funds will be mobilised from partners; university leadership and alumni are expected to mobilise the remainder. The funds will finance a two-classroom block estimated at UGX 63.5 million, 60 bench desks at UGX 6 million, a staff latrine at UGX 8 million, and a 10,000-litre water tank with a water-harvesting system estimated at UGX 8.5 million.
Background
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program began its first phase in 2013 at Makerere University, marking the start of an impactful partnership. In 2023, this collaboration was renewed with the launch of Phase Two of the Scholars Program. Central to this initiative are activities focused on community engagement and giving back, which play a vital role in fostering leadership development among scholars.
Bernard Buteera is the Principal Communication and Public Relations Officer for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
General
Celebrating a 26-year Legacy at Makerere: Deputy AR Mr. Charles Ssentongo hands over to Mr. Justus Karegyeya
Hot on the heels of completing 26 years of exemplary service and unwavering dedication to Makerere University, Mr. Charles Ssentongo has today 10th September 2026 officially handed over the office of Deputy Academic Registrar – Undergraduate Admissions and Records to Mr. Justus Karegyeya. Mr. Ssentongo held this position for 16 years in both acting and substantive capacity.
The transition was completed during an official handover ceremony held at the Senate building, Level 3, in the presence of the Academic Registrar Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, staff, and colleagues who gathered to celebrate Mr. Ssentongo’s monumental contribution to the University and also witness the handover as he retires from University service.
Appreciation for Mr. Ssentongo’s Contribution to the Academic Registry at Mak
Prof. Buyinza commended Ssentongo for inviting staff and collegaues to what he called an important and symbolic moment.
He acknowledged this as a moment of transition from one life cycle to another, and assured Mr. Ssentongo that Makerere University will always value his service, and he will remain an important part of its story and enduring legacy.
Considering that the two portfolios Ssentongo has been in charge of for the past 16 years; admissions and records, are the central pillars in any university, Prof. Buyinza commended him for having manned them with a distinction.
He further reiterated that these two pillars, admission and records, are where control over who is admitted, and protection of the academic awards of the university is exercised. Mr. Ssentongo, Prof. Buyinza noted, has executed this dual task very well through a strong commitment to safeguarding the university systems and processes. His was a tenure defined by diligence, integrity, professionalism, and devotion.
Prof. Buyinza further thanked him for having helped strengthen the records management system in the university by ensuring personal academic documents are secured from unauthorised access.
“We do not see these documents flying all over. So, we thank you for having contributed to the advancement of our systems and to greater efficiency” Prof. Buyinda expressed.
Beyond technical contribution, Ssentongo’s integrity, humble disposition, demeanor, credibility, and willingness to support others was commended, for he has used this to mentor as many staff as possible. As Mr. Ssentongo, steps out of office, he leaves behind a very strong, formidable team that will carry forward his legacy.
Prof. Buyinza extended the University Management’s sincere gratitude to Mr. Ssentongo for the many years of dedicated service to Makerere, and renewed its commitment to continue strengthening the processes that have been built.
Mr. Charles Ssentogo’s Handover message and ceremony
While delivering his handover speech, Mr. Charles Ssentogo thanked God and Makerere University Council for the opportunity given to him to work here since January 2000.
He shared that since he joined as an Assistant Registrar, he has been deployed in the Undergraduate Admissions and Records division where he has grown through the ranks. And whereas Ssentongo was appointed as the Head of the division and Acting Deputy Academic Registrar in 2010, it was not until 2018 when he was confirmed in substantive capacity.
He extended heartfelt appreciation to all supervisors that he was privileged to work under and thanked them for the support and guidance rendered to him.
Key Achievements highlighted during his tenure:
- Mentoring and training of staff.
- Advertising accredited programmes.
- Managing government-sponsored student admissions for all public universities.
- Digitalising the admissions process via the ACMIS system.
- Successfully managing special admission schemes (such as mature age, district quota, disability, and sports) and amicably resolving admission disputes.
- Coordinating division activities with external bodies, including UNEB.
- Reorganising records through the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project for efficient electronic access.
- Conducting successful career guidance sessions in schools.
Counsel offered to the incoming Deputy Academic Registrar:
- Read and internalise policy for effective management of duties and informed dispensation of advice when called upon.
- Serve diligently by executing your duties timely and avoiding unnecessary arguments.
- Verify the handover report before signing it off.
Professional growth of Mr. Sentongo while at Makerere
Mr. Ssentongo joined Makerere University in 2000 as Assistant Registrar and was confirmed in the university service January 2002, and in 2006, was promoted to the position of Senior Assistant Registrar.
In 2009 he was posted to the Examinations and Transcripts Division as Head of Transcripts section, where he served for one year. In 2010 he was transferred back to Undergraduate Admissions and Records Division as its Head and designated as Acting Deputy Academic Registrar.
In 2018 he was confirmed as substantive Deputy Academic Registrar and Head of the Undergraduate Admissions and Records Division, a position he held until his official retirement on 9th September 2026.
Mr. Justus Karegyeya accepts to take on the position in acting capacity
In his remarks, Mr. Karegyeya formally accepted the interim appointment, admitting that he was experiencing a sense of both being overwhelmed and gratitude for the opportunity.
He highlighted his extensive history within the Division, admitting that this gives him a deep familiarity with the unit’s internal processes.
Therefore, in this new capacity, Karegyeya appreciated the mentorship the team has received from Mr. Ssentongo, which he emphasised has prepared them to execute their duties effectively.
He pledged to maintain operational continuity by picking up exactly from where his former supervisor left off, and continuing the specific tasks that were previously recorded. Karegyeya equally expressed his readiness to hold the position until the Human Resources Directorate completes the process of recruiting a substantive replacement.
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