The Director General of the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD), Jon Lomøy has applauded Makerere University for maintaining strong ancient ties with the Royal Government of Norway as well as the Norwegian institutions through the Norwegian support, partnerships, research, innovations, knowledge sharing, and student-staff exchange. This was during his visit to the great institution on 21st November 2017.
The Director General, who was accompanied by the Norwegian Ambassador to Uganda, H.E Susan Eckey, and other delegates namely Marte Tokenaes, Tina Holtgaard Oulie, Jeanette Da Silva and Mary Mabweijano, referred to Makerere University as the hub of Norwegian cooperation in Uganda.
“I am impressed with the long term cooperation that is dated way back in the 1940s! We are happy to note that Norway has had a strong hand in the physical and academic developments of Makerere University. And we are glad to be partners during the time when Makerere University is achieving a lot in her diverse work,” he said.
Meeting the Makerere University Central Management, the Principal Investigators of Capacity Building in Higher Education and Research for Development (NORHED) Projects and a team from Institutional Development and Implementation Committee (NIDIC), the Director General extended his sincere gratitude to the Makerere University Management and the entire University community for their strong contribution towards research and human resources through capacity building programmes.
“Our major focus is to strengthen the institutional capacity and performance of higher education institutions (HEIs). I therefore recognise Makerere University’s efforts in enforcing capacity building programs in Uganda as well as leading the country in research developments,” he said.
Jon Lomøy is looking towards a sustainable cooperation between Makerere University and the Royal Government of Norway even at a time when Uganda becomes financially independent. “We should have a continued scientific collaboration in research and innovations. Makerere University is one of the major hope in the Norwegian collaboration and Uganda is the major recipient of the Norwegian support, therefore we should not break this strong ties we have built over decades,” said the Director General.
The Ambassador of Norway to Uganda H.E Susan Eckey appreciated the institutions efforts to continue developing projects and initiatives under the NORAD support. “I am pleased to know that Makerere University is expanding the School of Women and Gender Studies, initiated by Norwegian collaboration with Makerere University,” she said.
In a speech read by Dr. Eria Hisali, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe acknowledged Norway’s contribution towards transforming Makerere University in the areas of teaching and learning, research and innovation, knowledge transfer partnerships and networking. “With this collaboration we have not only developed in academics, physical infrastructures and expanding of the human resource capacity through training, but we have also improved in the area of poverty reduction,” said the Vice Chancellor.
He thanked the Royal Government of Norway, the Norwegian Institutions for prioritising Makerere University when securing research and support grants. “We have been on the fore front in winning these grants, we have implemented many of the Norwegian projects and the current one is the NORHED where Makerere University is implementing 9 out of the 13 projects. We are really grateful for this consideration and this partly explains why we rank as one of the best 10 universities in Africa,” he mentioned.
In an overview on “Government of the Royal Kingdom of Norway” support to Makerere University and 70 years Institutional collaboration between Makerere University and the Norwegian Institutions” the Director, Planning & Development Department Dr. Florence Nakayiwa highlighted the achievements of the collaborations, the different research projects at Makerere University supported by NORAD and other potential areas of support towards institutional development.
Amidst applause from the congregation, Dr. Hisali presented an admirably befitting Plaque to the Director General and the entire NORAD team, on behalf of the Vice Chancellor as a sign of appreciation for their invaluable contribution towards Makerere University’s transformation in the area of teaching and learning, research and innovations, knowledge transfer partnerships and infrastructure development. He also presented Makerere University Souvenirs to the delegates.
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.
Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance.
“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.”
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe poses with the #MakRun2025 photo frame.
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.
Officials pose with runners in the Freedom Square.
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 Government of Uganda and AFRISA in Collaboration with Makerere University invites applicants for Diploma and Certificate programs tenable at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-security (COVAB).
Makerere University has today Wednesday, 9th June 2025 officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon. Formerly known as a fun run, the initiative was rebranded on 27th March 2025 during the launch of its Fifth Edition. This year’s event, #MakRun2025, is slated for 17th August 2025 under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future”.
MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi.
Addressing the Media at a press conference this afternoon, the MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi remarked, “We are deeply honoured and excited to unveil NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of #MakRun2025, with a landmark commitment of UGX 1.45 billion over the next five years.”
Dr. Maggie Kigozi shows her support for #MakRun2025.
Dr. Kigozi further described the unveiling as “a strategic partnership built on shared values and a common vision for inclusive education and sustainable impact,” adding that it would “fast-track the establishment of a fully equipped Disability Support Unit for students living with disabilities, and to build a sustainable pool of funds to support Economically Disadvantaged Students.”
Appreciating the generous sponsorship, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe acknowledged that NCBA Bank had not only made history as the biggest corporate sponsor of #MakRun to date but also aligned with Makerere’s vision to improve the quality of student life. “This is a powerful gesture of trust in our mission and a demonstration of deep corporate citizenship”, he added.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe makes his remarks.
Prof. Nawangwe further thanked NCBA for recognizing that an investment in Makerere University is an indirect investment in the future of Uganda. “The Makerere Marathon is not just a race. It is a movement to establish a fully-fledged Disability Support Unit for students living with various forms of disabilities, and to build a sustainable fund for Economically Disadvantaged Students.”
The Vice Chancellor therefore rallied staff, students, alumni, partners and friends of Makerere to match NCBA’s generous support with vigour and commitment, so as to make #MakRun2025 the most impactful edition since its founding.
Mr. Mark Muyobo makes his remarks at the press conference.
The Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mark Muyobo thanked Makerere University for giving NCBA Bank Uganda the opportunity to play its part in “shaping Uganda’s future one student, one community, one strength at a time,” adding that #MakRun is a symbol of hope for students living with disabilities as it speaks to Makerere’s core values of inclusion, equity, and excellence.
On a rhythmical note, Mr. Muyobo remarked that the #MakRun2025 theme is “not just about finishing lines, it is about opening doors; giving opportunities to those who are disabled. It is about promoting active lifestyle.”
Runners get flagged off for an evening run after the unveiling ceremony.
#MakRun2025 will for the first time feature a full 42.2km marathon race with international accreditation and professional timing along a dedicated traffic-free route.
“These are not just upgrades, these are bold steps towards building a world-class international marathon right here in Kampala. We are proud to be the wings at your back as you take this leap because when Makerere University, the beacon of higher learning in Uganda grows stronger, the ripple effects are felt across the region and across the continent” Mr. Muyobo affirmed.
Mr. Mark Muyobo (L) and Dr. Maggie Kigozi (R) pose with the signed MoU.
To officially seal the deal, a Memorandum of Understanding was officially signed between Makerere University and NCBA Bank Uganda, and thereafter, a dummy cheque of UGX 1.45 billion was presented to Dr. Maggie Kigozi as the Vice Chancellor, Members of Management and NCBA staff witnessed.
Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance.