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MasterCard Foundation awards 200 scholarships

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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.

Makerere University  Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu addressing the scholars.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.The MCF Program Coordinator at Makerere University Dr. Florence Nakayiwa.

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.overjoyed sholars posing for a photo in Makerere University Freedom Square

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Aptitude Test Results for the Mature Age Entry Scheme 2024/2025

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Senate Building

The Office of Academic Registrar, Makerere University has released Aptitude Test Examination results for the Mature Age Entry Scheme Examinations held on Saturday 24th February, 2024.

The Candidates who scored 50% and above in the aptitude test passed the aptitude examination and will have their programme -specific examination paper marked. Those who scored less than 50% failed.

Access the links below for the lists categorised under Science-based and Humanities based programmes respectively:

Below is the list for Full Results for Candidates who sat Mature Age Entry Examinations 2024/25 for Bachelor of Laws. Note: All candidates who scored a final mark of 50% and above should prepare for the Bachelor of laws pre-entry examination:

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Strengthening Partnerships: Makerere University Welcomes Delegation from Western University, Ontario, Canada

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The Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) and UWO President-Dr. Alan Shepard (3rd Left) show off the signed MoU as Left to Right: UWO's Dr. Opiyo Oloya and Dr. Lily Cho as well as University Secretary-Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, UWO's Dr. John Yoo and Head of Advancement-Mr. Awel Uwihanganye witness on 21st March 2024. Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Carol Kainomugisha

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the University Management, welcomed a delegation from Western University, Ontario, Canada (UWO), marking an important milestone in the strengthening of international partnerships and collaborations. The week-long visit, characterized by insightful discussions and exchanges with various colleges, departments and units of the University, highlighted various areas of mutual interest and potential collaboration between the two esteemed institutions.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (2nd Right) and Dr. Alan Shepard (2nd Left) sign the MoU as Mr. Yusuf Kiranda (Left) and Dr. Lily Cho (Right) witness. 21st March 2023, Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (2nd Right) and Dr. Alan Shepard (2nd Left) sign the MoU as Mr. Yusuf Kiranda (Left) and Dr. Lily Cho (Right) witness.

The delegation was led by President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Alan Shepard and accompanied by Vice-Provost and Associate Vice-President, Dr. Lily Cho, the Associate Vice-President, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, Dr. Opiyo Oloya and the Dean, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Dr. John Yoo.

The visit culminated with the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which will most certainly strengthen the already existing relationship between Makerere University and Western University.

The meeting between Makerere University and Western University commenced with the University Management which discussed collaborative opportunities, particularly in engineering, design, and technology, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Mr. Opio Oloya addressed issues of Inclusivity and diversity in academia, focusing on integrating indigenous knowledge, combating global anti-blackness, and promoting social integration within university communities.

Members of the University Management and the delegation from Western University, Ontario, Canada pose for a group photo at the Makerere@100 Monument. 18th March 2024, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Members of the University Management and the delegation from Western University, Ontario, Canada pose for a group photo at the Makerere@100 Monument.

Makerere‘s academic excellence and capacity-building initiatives were showcased, with plans to expand graduate training opportunities and enhance capacity through student and faculty exchanges.

 The meeting concluded with a shared vision for future collaborations, including research projects, academic programs, and student exchanges, reaffirming the commitment to fostering excellence and addressing global challenges through collaborative efforts.

Fostering Global Academic Partnerships: Western University meets Makerere University Colleges and Units.

In a meeting at the School of Law, led by the Principal, Associate Prof. Ronald Naluwairo, the delegation held lengthy deliberations to explore avenues for academic collaboration, embodying the power of international partnerships in academia.

Central to the dialogue was Western University’s interest in global engagement, particularly in internationalization, aligning with Makerere‘s ethos of interdisciplinary collaboration. The meeting highlighted joint research opportunities, staff, and student mobility programs, showcasing a commitment to academic excellence and the potential for cross-cultural learning and growth.

The Principal-Associate Prof. Ronald Naluwairo (5th Left), Deputy Principal-Dr. Zahara Nampewo (3rd Left), Principal CHUSS-Associate Prof. Josephine Ahikire (3rd Right), Head PAF-Dr. Benon Kigozi with other officials and the UWO delegation at the School of Law. 19th March 2024, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Principal-Associate Prof. Ronald Naluwairo (5th Left), Deputy Principal-Dr. Zahara Nampewo (3rd Left), Principal CHUSS-Associate Prof. Josephine Ahikire (3rd Right), Head PAF-Dr. Benon Kigozi (Right) with other officials and the UWO delegation at the School of Law.

During the meeting between the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) and Western University, the Executive Director Dr. Andrew Kambugu outlined IDI’s evolution from an academic venture to a multifaceted institution driving service delivery, research, and capacity building in Africa.

Highlighting existing partnerships, particularly in data management with the Faculty of Medicine at Western University, President Alan Shepard underscored the tangible outcomes of cross-border collaboration, with data-driven research initiatives making significant contributions to healthcare and public health interventions. Future collaboration prospects, including exchange programs, joint initiatives, and equipment donations, emphasized a shared commitment to innovative approaches and collaborative problem-solving to address pressing challenges in Africa.

Dr. Andrew Kambugu (4th Left) with other officials and the UWO Delegation during their visit to IDI. 19th March 2024, Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Andrew Kambugu (4th Left) with other officials and the UWO Delegation during their visit to IDI.

Celebrating Collaboration: Farewell Luncheon Honoring Western University Delegation

A farewell luncheon, hosted by Mrs. Lorna Magara, the Chairperson, Makerere University Council, marked the poignant conclusion of the exchange visit with Western University, Ontario, Canada, celebrating the enduring spirit of collaboration and friendship between the two institutions.

Mrs. Lorna Magara (Left) shakes hands with Dr. Opiyo Oloya as Dr. Alan Shepard (Rear Right) and other officials interact. 21st March 2024, Golden Tulip Hotel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Lorna Magara (Left) shakes hands with Dr. Opiyo Oloya as Dr. Alan Shepard (Rear Right) and other officials interact.

 As farewells were exchanged, participants left with cherished memories and a renewed commitment to nurturing the partnership for future endeavors, underscoring the power of collaboration to transcend boundaries and create opportunities for growth and learning.

As Western University and Makerere University look ahead, the memories of the week-long strategic visit will serve as a beacon of inspiration, guiding their continued efforts to collaborate, learn, and grow together.

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CTCA Request For Expression of Interest: Finance and Accounts Assistant

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CTCA is seeking the services of a Finance and Accounts Assistant whose overall responsibility will be to provide finance and administrative support to ensure efficient operation of the office. Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA), School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Institution: Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA)
Project Title: Enhance Tobacco Control Institutional Capacity in Africa
Expression of Interest Number: CTCA/EOI/G339/2024

1. Introduction:

The Centre has received funding from the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) for the
2024-2026) to implement a project on institutional development. The project investments are
geared towards sustaining human resource capacity and knowledge generation to reduce use of all forms of tobacco products in Africa.

Specifically, the project aims to:

  1. Enhance training opportunities for African governments and relevant actors in tobacco
    control in the continent.
  2. Increase access to knowledge for guiding tobacco use prevention and control in Africa.
  3. Reinforce the institutional development of CTCA for an optimal performance of its
    functions and processes.

Therefore, CTCA is seeking the services of a Finance and Accounts Assistant whose overall responsibility will be to provide finance and administrative support to ensure efficient operation of the office. The Assistant will support management and other employees on a variety of tasks related to administration, finance, procurement, and communication.

2. Scope of Work

The specific duties include:

  1. Providing support to the accounting and procurement functions through preparing journals and loading payments for review by the budget and finance officer for authorization
  2. Maintain supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt of supplies.
  3. Administer and manage logistics and contracts for services with service providers such as travel agents, hotels, translations and interpretation agencies, office supplies
  4. Maintaining a clean electronic and manual filing system.
  5. Handling communications – Receiving, storing, retrieving, dispatching, organizing documents and other correspondence of the Centre.
  6. Provide secretarial services to CTCA technical meetings.
  7. Assist in the preparation of regularly scheduled reports.
  8. Assist in logistics preparations for meetings, workshops, and missions.
  9. Oversee and supervise the work of junior staff.
  10. Maintain up-to-date employee records.
  11. Any other duties as may be assigned.

See Downloads for detailed advert.

Application deadline: Not later than 17:00 hours on 8th April, 2024.

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