Connect with us

General

Scholarly Book launched to immortalize Prof. James Patrick Manyenye Ntozi

Published

on

Scholars from the field of Demography and Population Studies have written a scholarly tribute to Prof. James Patrick Manyenye Ntozi; celebrating his 45 years of dedicated and distinguished service in the field of demography at Makerere University, Uganda, Africa and beyond.

The book titled: Demography of Uganda and Selected African Countries: Towards more Sustainable Development Pathways was officially launched by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda Rt. Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda at a high profile ceremony that was organized by Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) and the Centre for Population and Applied Statistics (CPAS).

Edited by Prof. John Oucho, Dr. Gideon Rutaremwa and Prof. Jockey Baker Nyakaana, the book will immortalize Professor Ntozi’s work and inspire other demographers and their colleagues elsewhere to undertake a similar exercise for their deserving mentors. “We hope readers will find this book a fitting accolade to a man who dedicated his life to scholarship in demography and through which his students and compatriots alike have laid strong foundation for immortalizing the scholar.”

Speaking to the congregation in the Makerere University Main Hall on 23rd March 2017, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda commended Prof. James Manyenye Ntozi for being a strong fighter with a dedicated spirit in liberating his country from poverty. According to Rt. Hon. Rugunda, Prof. Manyenye Ntozi is a unique and outstanding personality whose works have shaped the field of demography in Makerere University, the nation and indeed the continent.L-R: Tourism Minister Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu, Lt.Gen Ivan Koreta and former EA Legislator Hon Yona Kanyomozi old boys of Prof. James Ntozi share a light moment.

“I congratulate you on this great achievement. I would like to say that your distinguished contribution to the scholarly world and your excellence in the field of Demography and Population Studies has inspired many people around the globe. I am happy to say that you will always be remembered as a famous person that has taught, mentored and nurtured many people on this continent,” the Prime Minister said.

The Prime Minister appreciated Makerere University’s efforts to recognize distinguished academicians and called upon other institutions to emulate Makerere University so that academicians receive the recognition they deserve. He shared concern on the policy of retiring professors, and advised Makerere University Management to engage the concerned Ministries so that the University continues to benefit from the treasure within professors perpetually.

Speaking about the book, the Prime Minister said, “This book is very relevant and specifically talks about the needs of our country Uganda. I therefore thank the authors who contributed articles to this book. I also thank the editors for the wonderful job well done.”

Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu acknowledged Prof. Manyenye Ntozi’s efforts in promoting Makerere University locally and globally through his tremendous achievements in Demography and Population Studies.  According to Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu, Prof. Manyenye Ntozi has diligently served Makerere University in various capacities.

“Prof. Manyenye Ntozi has served as a Lecturer, Head of Department, Dean, Member of Senate and Ambassador of the University to the outside world. His unique skills and knowledge in the field of demography, acquired over a period of more than four decades of scholarly work, have been utilized in the world over. This is evidenced by his various appointments to Boards of organizations and parastatals, as well as international engagements as Visiting Scholar and Researcher,” he said.

Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu congratulated Prof. Manyenye Ntozi upon being recognized through a scholarly tribute that presents him as a brilliant academician with remarkable scholarly services in the field of Population studies.Some of Prof. Ntozi's Children and relatives (Second row) in attendance.

“There is truly no greater achievement for an academician than to be recognized by not only your peers but your students as well. Congratulations! The book has been put together by Prof. Ntozi’s compatriots and students across the African continent. It is, therefore, a product of highly organized collaborative effort, achieved with professional support of the Fountain Publishers,” said the Vice Chancellor.

In his keynote address titled Old is Gold; Harnessing Academicians in old Age, John Oucho a Professor of Demography and Geography at the University of Nairobi said that there is a need to respect and fully utilize knowledge and advice of old people. Defining the two terms, Prof. Oucho stated that Old is that experience a person has gained over the years and gold is one of the expensive metals in the metal industry.

Professor Oucho said that the experience that old people like Prof. Ntozi have, is as expensive as gold because they have taken many years to learn the lessons of life as well as accumulating a wealth of experience. “Therefore don't disrespect or neglect them because they are old but do take care of them as precious gold,” he said.

Citing a verse from the book of Exodus, Prof. Oucho encouraged the young generation to respect and show love to the old people since they are a source of knowledge and inspiration to them. “Exodus 20:12 says; “Honor your father, your mother that your days may be prolonged in the land which the LORD your God gives you”. We academicians we are like fathers of our students. Therefore you should respect us through giving us time, listening to us, being polite to us and asking for our advice. We must strive to have a society for all ages including the old and retirees. Discriminating against old academicians is like discriminating your own parents,” he said.Mr. Ben Paul Mungyereza (Second Left) Executive Director, Uganda Bureau of Statistics presenting the plaque to Prof. Ntozi for his meritorious work

In the spirit of harnessing academicians in old age, Prof. Oucho appealed to Makerere University to appoint Prof. James Patrick Manyenye Ntozi-Professor Emeritus.
James Patrick Manyenye Ntozi is a Professor of Population Studies at Makerere University. He is a Medical Demographer and Statistician by training whose distinguished experience is well observed in conducting evaluation, needs assessment and baseline studies at international and national levels. His most recent monitoring and evaluation work included evaluating the PEPFAR project in Nigeria for the USA National Academy of Sciences and Congress (2005 – 2007).

Introducing him, as a great scholar, the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu said Prof. Ntozi’s legacy will live on through his works, scholarship and mentorship. He described Ntozi as a faithful and lovable person, very consistent and focused.

“I have known Ntozi since 1960, he is a dedicated fighter. He is a father who has managed to devote considerable amount of time to bring up his children. Ntozi is an excellent husband to Aidah Ntozi,” he passionately said.

The book titled, Demography of Uganda and Selected African Countries: Towards more Sustainable Development Pathways is a climax of an idea by Prof. Ntozi’s peers and students who thought of writing a paper to recognize their lecturer. When the staff in the Department of Population Studies committed themselves to writing a book, the idea of writing a journal article metamorphosed into a book that would forever immortalize Prof. Manyenye Ntozi.

According to Dr. Abel Nzabona, one of Prof. Ntozi’s students and writer of the book, Prof. Ntozi is Uganda’s most illustrious population demographer. He will always be remembered for establishing the Department of Population Studies at Makerere University; attracting funding to support national and international programmes in the field of population studies and demography;  and his track record in scholarship, mentorship and career guidance. He applauded Prof. Ntozi for over 75 papers published in peer reviewed journals.

Highlighting the book writing process, Dr. Nzabona said 15 writers and 4 editors from countries namely Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, Nigeria, France and organizations including, Uganda National Bureau of Standards provided tremendous contributions to the book. He paid special tribute to all authors of the 16 Chapters who produced the material that builds the book. One of the Editors, Dr. Gideon Rutaremwa shared with the audience a brief on the book composition and contents.

It was a nostalgic moment when Prof. Ntozi clad in his academic regalia shared special moments regarding his student life at Makerere University.

“I joined Makerere University in June 1968 as an undergraduate student pursuing Bachelor of Science (Economics and Statistics)-Institute of Statistics and Applied Economics and I completed in March 1971. I registered for my Masters in the same Institute in September 1971 and completed in July 1973. I completed a PhD in Medical Demography in 1977. Because of the political turbulence during the Idi Amin Regime, I stayed in the University of Nairobi for two years. I returned to Makerere University in 1979, and since then, I have remained here despite many temptations in form of greener pastures at regional and international levels. I made a decision to stay at Makerere University to serve my alma mater and my country-Uganda. I did not abandon Makerere University.”

Prof. Ntozi also applauded Prof. Livingstone S. Luboobi, former Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, who was part of the audience for choosing to stay at Makerere University.
During his stay at Makerere University, Prof. Ntozi significantly contributed to the evolution of demography and population studies including mobilization of resources from bodies such as Rockefeller Foundation, World Bank, IDRC and National Population Council among others.

Prof. Ntozi expressed gratitude to his students and the authors for recognizing his contribution to the academia while he is still alive. He thanked the contributors for the scholarly tribute that will forever preserve his legendary work as Uganda’s most illustrious medical Geographer.

“I take this opportunity to appreciate all these efforts. In a special way, I thank Associate Professor Gideon Rutaremwa for spearheading efforts to publish this book. I also thank Prof. John Oucho, from the University of Nairobi for successfully accomplishing the task of Chief Editor of the publication and my wonderful students; I am more delighted to know that my students whom I trained and taught have vividly participated in putting together this piece of scholarly work,” he said.

Prof. Ntozi commended Dr. Fredrick Tumwine, Dr. Abel Nzabona and Mr. John Mushomi for working tirelessly to produce a piece of work that their teacher can proudly identify with. He thanked the College of Business and Management Sciences under the leadership of Dr. Eria Hisali for providing all the support required by the Centre for Population and Applied Statistics (CPAS) to publish the book.[L-R ]Dr. Eria Hisali,Prof. John Oucho and Mrs. Agnes Ssekiboobo

He equally acknowledged the efforts of the Centre for Population and Applied Statistics (CPAS) under the able leadership of Mrs. Ssekiboobo Agnes for successfully hosting this publication process of the book. He also thanked Makerere University and the Government of Uganda for providing an environment that is conducive for scholars to freely write and publish their work.

According to Prof. Ntozi, his recognition will set the precedent at Makerere that more scholars/academicians ought to be recognized for the precious time devoted to the University. He was happy for his tremendous contribution and achievements in the university when he said, “I am happy that I have diligently served Makerere University with passion. I am sure that I will fulfill my decision to stay in my Alma Mater and my country Uganda as long as my life is not in immediate danger,” said James Ntozi.

Prof. James Patrick Manyenye Ntozi received a plaque from Uganda Bureau of Statistics presented by the Executive Director, Mr. Ben Paul Mungyereza in recognition of Prof. Ntozi's outstanding work at Makerere University and invaluable support to Uganda Bureau of Statistics. The plaque was presented to him by the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda.Some of the guests and other university senior staff after seeing off the Prime Minister Rt Hon Rugunda

Dr.  Fredrick Ruguma Tumwine who was supervised by Prof. Ntozi both at Masters’ and PhD, praised Prof. Ntozi for changing him from a physical into a human geographer.  Representing students taught by the Professor, the overjoyed Tumwine said that Prof. Ntozi will never fade from the minds of his students, owing to the unique and fatherly character he always exuded. “He has always been good at time management and perfect in the way he articulates points. He is a superb supervisor,” he said.

Giving a vote of thanks, the Dean-School of Statistics and Planning, Dr. Robert Wamala thanked the Government, Makerere University, the family of Prof. Ntozi, authors and students for their contribution towards the process of honouring Prof. Ntozi.Dr. Robert Wamala, the Dean-School of Statistics and Planning

The students from the Department of Performing Arts and Film together with the Head of Department Dr. Sylvia Antonia Nannyonga-Tamusuza treated guests to energetic performances including special presentations depicting the academic journey of Professor James Patrick Manyenye Ntozi.

Article by Mak Public Relations Office

Elias Tuhereze

Continue Reading

General

Makerere University Council and Top Management Convene Strategic Planning Retreat

Published

on

Members of the University Council together with Management in a group photo at consultative meeting towards the formulation of the University’s Strategic Plan 2025/2026–2029/2030.

The Makerere University Council and Top Management have today convened at Speke Resort Munyonyo to deliberate on the University’s Strategic Plan 2025/2026 – 2029/2030. The retreat seeks to align Makerere’s priorities with the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) and ensure that all key stakeholders contribute to shaping the institution’s next five years.

Opening the discussions, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, underscored the centrality of planning in the University’s growth trajectory. He called on members of management to actively participate in the drafting of the new strategic plan. Prof. Nawangwe highlighted Makerere’s progress in recent years, noting that the University has drawn a roadmap to becoming a research-led institution, with publications rising from 700 five years ago to 2,000 currently.

He further pointed out the revision of research policies to align with the University’s research agenda, as well as the establishment of innovation hubs that support product development, commercialisation, and intellectual property management. Commending staff for their resilience and success, Prof. Nawangwe congratulated them on winning significant individual grants, some of which now surpass institutional grants. “NDP IV is intended to grow the country tenfold, and I am confident Makerere will make a huge contribution,” he remarked.

Mrs. Lorna Magara

In her keynote remarks, the Chairperson of the University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, described the retreat as a defining moment for Makerere’s role in Uganda’s transformation. She urged the University to move beyond traditional teaching and research, positioning itself as a central driver of national development.

“Our mandate extends beyond academia. The knowledge we generate, the leaders we shape, and the innovations we deliver must directly fuel Uganda’s growth,” Mrs. Magara stated.

She outlined priority national development areas— agro-industrialisation, tourism, mineral-based development, and advances in science and technology—where Makerere’s expertise can make a decisive impact. Emphasising the urgency of challenges such as youth unemployment, climate change, food insecurity, and fragile health systems, she noted that within these lie opportunities for Makerere to lead in testing and scaling solutions.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

“This retreat is about discipline and focus. Our strategy cannot be a wish list; it must be a blueprint for measurable national impact,” she said, challenging participants to critically reflect on how Makerere can anchor Uganda’s food security, nurture digital innovators, strengthen health resilience, and raise transformative leaders.

She concluded with a call for boldness and clarity in execution: “The next five years are decisive. Makerere must shift from being a participant in national development to being its strongest driver. What we agree here must position Makerere not only as Uganda’s premier university but also as a trusted national partner and a beacon of Africa’s transformation.”

Participants in a group discussion

The retreat involved detailed discussions and contributions from University leaders, aimed at developing a practical and impact-driven strategic plan that cements Makerere’s role in advancing Uganda’s development agenda.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

Continue Reading

Education

Makerere University signs Memorandum of Understanding with International Rescue Committee to Advance Research, Innovation and Partnerships

Published

on

Prof. Anthony Mugagga (Left), Principal of MakCEES exchanging the MoU with Mr. Elijah Okuyo, Country Director, IRC

Makerere University has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Rescue Committee to formalize undertakings in research, innovation & partnerships.

Signed in September 2025 by the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the Country Director, International Rescue Committee,  Mr. Elijah Okeyo, the MoU provides a framework to implement research intensive programmes, promote innovative teaching and learning, internationalization, and contribute to societal transformation.

According to Mr. Okeyo, the MoU re-affirms Makerere University as the academic partner of the International Rescue Committee (IRC). “This MoU formalizes IRC’s working relationship with Makerere University. This framework empowers both institutions to tap into opportunities together. We believe in equal partnership. Makerere University commits to being our partner in research to contribute to evidence based humanitarian undertakings,” he said.

Under this collaboration, Makerere University and IRC will work on developing child-centered learning resources, innovative curricula, and policy-relevant research to enhance the quality of education in crisis-affected regions.

At Makerere University, the MoU brings on board, the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Research Centre.

To concretize the MoU, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga convened a partnership meeting on Friday 12th September 2025  involving a delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Dr. David Kabugo, the Deputy Director of Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER),  and Ms. Ritah Namisango, the Principal Communication Officer.

Mak CEES and IRC partnership meeting in progress

The delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) consisted of the following: Mr. Elijah Okeyo-Country Director, Mr. Vincent Wanyama-Senior Program Development and Quality Coordinator,  Mr. Richard Omasete-Policy and Advocacy PlayMatters, and Ms. Janet Nambuya-Grants and Partnerships Coordinator.

The MoU focuses on the following areas of interest: Early Childhood Development, joint research and capacity building in education, the plight of refugees and the host communities, humanitarian aid, as well as, evidence based research to inform the education policy.

In line with its mandate, IRC brings onboard, its unmatched expertise in helping children in crisis-affected areas. The MoU therefore positions both institutions to undertake a leading role in the protection of children and families through evidence based research, access to education, and humanitarian undertakings.

Dr. Kabugo, the Deputy Director MITER, noted that the MoU opens new opportunities for joint efforts in research, training, and policy. He said: “We are committed to co-designing practitioner research, engaging in professional development, and generating evidence to guide the education policy in Uganda and beyond.” Dr. Kabugo explained that this partnership builds on years of cooperation between CEES and IRC, especially in child-centered methods such as play-based learning.

Prof. Mugagga described the MOU as a practical framework that connects Makerere University’s research with IRC’s field experiences. He stated that the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) conducts programmes focused on the future of the young people through training and empowering students/teachers. He articulated that the College significantly impacts on the education sector through delivery of quality academic programmes and research under the School of Education, School of  Distance and Lifelong Learning, and the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development.

“Our strongest synergy is education and early child-focused care,” Prof. Mugagga emphasized. He revealed that the collaboration presents CEES with a strong and reliable partner (IRC), which stands for protection and the well-being of children and families. “Through this MoU, both CEES and IRC, will significantly contribute to improving education for children, families, and communities impacted by conflict and crisis.”

Prof. Mugagga commended IRC for the earlier support and expertise extended to the College in the development of the early childhood centre, and working together to provide valuable input during the Ministry of Education and Sports’ consultative process that led to the Early Childhood development policy.

Reflecting on the increasing number of refugees enrolling for studies at Makerere University, Prof. Mugagga  said: “ IRC has come at the right time. The College will tap into the IRC expertise to teach our staff and learners components in refugee education. They will equip our students and teachers with knowledge and skills in refugee education. Some of our students will cooperate with IRC to undertake research in refugee settlement and host communities.”

[L-R] Dr. David Kabugo, Deputy Director (MITER), Mr. Vincent Wanyama (IRC), Prof. Anthony Mugagga (Principal, MakCEES), Mr. Elijah Okeyo( Country Director-IRC), Ms. Janet Nambuya (IRC), Mr. Richard Omasette (IRC) and Ms. Ritah Namisango, PCO (MakCEES)

Prof. Mugagga implored both MITER and IRC to undertake research and develop modules on refugee education, parenting, re-tooling street children, integration of a health component into the curriculum, and management of truamatised students/learners who come from areas affected by war, conflict and crisis.

On the issue of play materials, Prof. Mugagga stressed that already made play materials derial creativing. “Both CEES and IRC should work towards a context that empowers children and learners to ignite their creative potential by developing home-made play materials,” he submitted.

About IRC

Stating a brief profile history about IRC, Mr. Okeyo explained that IRC is a global non-profit organisation that provides humanitarian aid and assistance to people affected by conflict and disaster. IRC has been active in Uganda since 1998, originally assisting displaced populations in Northern Uganda and later expanding its efforts to refugee settlements and urban areas.. Currently, IRC operates more than 35 health facilities in refugee settlements and runs a variety of programs in health, education, protection, and economic recovery. IRC also undertakes projects focusing on early childhood development, prevention of gender-based violence, and protection of refugees and families.

Ritah Namisango
Ritah Namisango

Continue Reading

General

Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University encouraged to participate in philanthropy work

Published

on

Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala addressing the gathering on behalf of DVC F&A, Prof. Ireeta. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Carol Kasujja Adii and Bernard Buteera

Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University have been encouraged to embrace the spirit of philanthropy as a vital foundation for fostering stronger and more resilient communities. This inspiring call to action took place during the 2025 Community Open Day at the Freedom Square on Saturday, September 6, 2025, where hundreds of Mastercard Scholars, Scholar-alumni, and partners of the Scholars Program gathered to initiate a fundraising drive for the signature Annual Scholars Day of Service.

The Annual Scholars Day of Service stands as a hallmark event through which the Scholars give back to the community in impactful and sustainable ways. During a keynote address titled “How Philanthropy Shapes Resilient Communities,” Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration, emphasised that while local philanthropy is not a new concept in Uganda, a more intentional mobilisation of this giving back power is necessary to address broader social challenges.

“Communities that mobilise their own resources—financial, human, and material—are empowered to take ownership of their development. Ownership naturally leads to sustainability, ensuring that solutions emerge from local knowledge, context, and values rather than being imposed from the outside. This approach is essential for effectively tackling our social challenges,” Prof. Ireeta stated.

A cross-section of scholar-alumni, listening attentively during the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A cross-section of scholar-alumni, listening attentively during the event.

In his remarks delivered by Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Ireeta highlighted the importance of nurturing the inherent power of local giving. He urged the celebration of current local philanthropic efforts, which can be initiated at the individual, religious, and community levels.

“To foster a culture of giving, we need to create platforms that promote structured, transparent, and impactful contributions,” he argued. “It’s crucial to strengthen our generosity, particularly among the youth, and cultivate a society where giving is valued as a core aspect of leadership and citizenship.”

Prof. Ireeta further noted, “The future of our Communities’ strength lies not in distant promises but in our own hands and collective actions. By fostering local philanthropy, we can build a society that is not only fairer but also more resilient and united.

Mr. John Osuna, speaking on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, at the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. John Osuna, speaking on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, at the event.

In his welcoming remarks, Mr. John Osuna, Transition Lead for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, who spoke on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, expressed gratitude to the Scholars for their collaborative efforts in turning the idea of giving back into reality.

“Let us embody humility, kindness, and compassion through actionable philanthropy. By doing so, we can create lasting impacts, enhancing our reputation as a community that genuinely cares,” Mr. Osuna stated.

The Community Open Day was organised under the inspiring theme: “Nurturing Philanthropy for Resilient Communities,” paving the way for future initiatives that strengthen community bonds through collective generosity.

A cross-section of the alumni making their pledges towards the scholars give back project. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A cross-section of the alumni making their pledges towards the scholars give back project.

“We believe that through nurturing philanthropy for resilient communities, our communities shall be able to organise themselves to build resilience beyond what we shall give back,” Mr. Osuna explained.

The vibrant event saw Scholars and Scholar-alumni actively participating by bringing items for auction and buying tickets for the raffle draw as a means of mobilising resources for the construction of a ventilated pit latrine, renovation of two classroom blocks and providing tanks for harvesting clean water for Bwera Primary School in Kabale District.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Agnes Katumba, the Director of Katumba Estates, one of the long-standing partners of the Scholars Program at Makerere University, tasked the Scholars to embrace the heart of giving back without expecting something in return.

Ms. Agnes Katumba, the Director, Katumba Estates Ltd handing over part of her pledge towards the Scholars Giveback project. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Agnes Katumba, the Director, Katumba Estates Ltd handing over part of her pledge towards the Scholars Giveback project.

“I thank the Mastercard Foundation; they not only provide scholarships but also give back to the community. I have been able to grow because of them. For scholars, you do not have to wait to be wealthy to give back; every coin counts,” Mrs. Katumba said.

Katumba Estates Ltd contributed three million shillings to the Scholars Give Back project. Another long-standing partner, DFCU Bank, pledged over sh10 million towards the Scholars’ building project.

The Representative from DFCU making the pledge to support Scholars Giveback project on behalf of the Bank. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Representative from DFCU making the pledge to support Scholars Giveback project on behalf of the Bank.

In her presentation, Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar-alumna, urged current Scholars to contribute to their communities in various ways, including mentorship and guiding young people.

Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Scholar-alumna addressing fellow Scholars and alumni at the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Scholar-alumna addressing fellow Scholars and alumni at the event.

“We are all here because someone chose to give. During my first year at Makerere, I contributed to some young man’s school fees back home in my community. The young man is now in his second year at Makerere. You don’t have to be wealthy to make an impact; be intentional in your giving, and you will witness the difference it makes. There is no greater fulfilment than helping someone in need,” Akwara stated.

Some of the Scholars praying for their raffle draw tickets to win. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the Scholars praying for their raffle draw tickets to win.

The event was punctuated with a number of activities that ranged from auctioning items, raffle draws, exhibitions, quizzes and a lot of games and fun.

The winner of the grand draw walked away with a flat screen TV. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The winner of the grand draw walked away with a flat screen TV.

Carol Kasujja and Bernard Buteera form the communications team for the Scholars Programme at Makerere University.

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

Trending