General
Capacity Building for FSF Scholars at Makerere in Self-Marketing, Relationships, Academic Excellence and Career Planning
Since 2001, the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) has been implementing a Female Scholarship programme under the Makerere University Female Scholarship Foundation (FSF).In addition to the tuition and living expenses, GMD equips the scholars with various life and soft skills that are crucial in succeeding beyond university education. In this respect, GMD organised a two-day capacity building workshop from 8th- 9th February 2018 in the Makerere University Senate Conference Halllevel four under a theme: “self-marketing and career success”. Over 70 female scholars attended the training and it was facilitated byreputable trainersfrom Daniel Choudry Sales Training Institute, the Gender mainstreaming Directorate and Public Relations Office Makerere University.
According to the Ag. Director Dr.Euzobia Mugisha Baine, the capacity building training aimed at enhancing scholar’s skills and capacities in social and academic life at campus and beyond. The two- day training also focused on providing academic mentoring and psychosocial support to scholars while at university. The content of the training included introduction to critical and mind wooing aspects of career choices, managing social and intimate relationships and achieving academic excellence, the power of communication, building self-confidence, entrepreneurship, effective use of social media, masterly of academic rules and regulations among others.
Addressing the scholars,Dr. Euzobia Baine emphasised thatthe capacity building trainingaims at introducing the scholars to have a glimpse into the real world of hustling at work and how to overcome the social challenges they might face when pursuing their dreams. She therefore urged scholars to take each and every point at the workshop seriously and embark on a journey that can positively change their lives.
“You have to understand that besides academic life there is also asocial world and, these two complementeach other. If we are to succeed we have to balance academic and social achievement. Attain the good grades, plan your life and aim high for your career, so that you can achieve and succeed in both arenas, which is not a smooth journey,” she said
She thanked the facilitators for dedicating the two days to have serious and constructive interactions with the scholars when she said, “I am pleased that we have some of the best facilitators in the area of self-marketing, communication, career planning, entrepreneurship among others. They have dedicated their time to see to it that you receive the knowledge we believe is going to aid your journey to success.”
Dr. Baine appreciated the team work exhibited by her colleagues in the Directorate in organising the workshop, as well as Makerere University Management, Council and University community for the tremendous support towards the scholars. In a special way, she thanked the Carnegie Corporation of New Yorkwhosponsored the activity and all the various funders of the Female Scholarship Foundation for helping the disadvantaged Ugandan girlsto attain Universityeducation.
During the interactions, Daniel Choudry the Director of Daniel Choudry Sales Training Institute and also a Lecturer at Makerere University Business School urged scholars never take the power of self-marketing for granted. According to him, youth have left the power of branding and marketing to businesses and organisation forgetting that their personalities areequally very important in achieving their goals. He therefore encouraged them to focus on building the reputable and respected personality that can attract them to market themselves socially and professionally.
“You should be aware of your own strengths and weaknesses. Start by reflecting on your distinct talents, skills, and academic or professional achievements. Your marketability is largely affected by how much you believe in yourself. In essence, good self-promotion starts with self-confidence. Your own perception of yourself will help you begin to assemble your “brag bag”, that unique picture of who you are personally and professionally”, he said.
He advised the scholars to always be keen on the kind of friends they associate with since this is highly considered to be the greatest measurement to someone’s success. “Be friends to people that can add value to your life, have friends that can be of great importance to realising your dreams, if you associate with turkeys, you will never fly like eagles. The friends you have influence your character, sometimes without you realising it,” said Choudry.
Ms. Lucy Athieno, the Executive Director of Eco-Pads Uganda and also an Alumni of the Female Scholarship Initiative (FSI), shared her entrepreneurship journey on how she managed to become one of the successful female entrepreneurs in the country. According to Athieno, it is important to understand the community needs since this helps someone in knowing the target and the kind of services or goods to bring on market. She also tipped the students on how they can apply for grants and funds to expand their businesses when she said, “be sure that your proposal has the basics that a funder can find attractive to give you his or her money. When pitching your idea, always speak to someone’s heart and emotions and always associate with people who are better than you because you can learn a lot from them.”
She also shared with students the power of storytelling and how her story led her to acquire more funding for her business. “The power of storytelling is very important but how do you tell your story? Do not hesitate to tell someone about that one thing you always wanted to do, if it is a good idea people will always pick interest and support you. We can always be what we want if we work for what we want, always attract your respect and reflect that thing you desire, become what you respect and mirror what you admire,” she said.
Discussing the importance ofthe power of small habits in building people’s career and image, Mr. Eric Tumwesigye the Female Scholarship Foundation Desk Officer in the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, cautioned scholars on their behaviour and attitude towards people and jobs. According to Tumwesigye, some youth are lazy, lack proper strategic plans and are poor in time management. They have exhibited poor communication skills and can no longer respect their elders. He therefore called for order among scholars and emphasized the need to revamp the youth image in the career sector.
“We are what we have become mainly because of our habits. We have diverted from our societal norms and we have fully neglected our societal habits. They might be simple, and small but they carry the highest value and respect, keep time, have a proper communication and respect the elders then you will win that big deal you have always yarned to attain,” he said.
On the second day of the workshop, Mrs. Alice Ddamulira, a facilitator from Sales Training Institute and Director, St. Mark’s College Namagoma, engaged scholars on relationship matters. She encouraged scholars to develop strategy and plan for their relationship journeys. “We should understand ourselves before we go in for love. We need to be the person we would admire to meet,”she stated.
Speaking about relationship dilemmas, Mrs. Ddamulira advised scholars to shun all the fears and myths on relationships and work towards a successful and a happy life ordained by God. She encouraged scholars to properly take care of their bodies and always hold onto their values and principles when it comes to relationship issues.
“Be cautious about self-talk, people love people who are confident. Understand that gracefulness and decency make a lady desirable and powerful. Be graceful and decent in speech and dress. Uphold yourprinciples and values, those who are attracted to you as a person will come and approach you,” she said.
The Makerere University Senior Public Relations Officer, Ms.Ritah Namisango advised scholars to work hard and excel academically. To her, academic excellence is the only way scholars can appreciate their funders for the great work they have done in nurturing their future.
“If someone has given in their best to make sure you are here, return one favour and give your best academically. Excellence is not an option, it is a must. Work out the strategies for excellence,” she said.
The Deputy Director (teaching, Learning Research & Innovations) in the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Ms. Frances Nyachwo called for persistence and patience among scholars. She encouraged scholars to pursue their goals and always havea creative mind that can generate income for them.
“Take the initiative to work towards that goal that you want to achieve. You need to do something that is generating for you income, be creative and have a strong mind. We want living testimonies. We have been inspired to take another step forward. Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate but our deepest fear is to think beyond what we see,” she said.
She thanked the scholars for being cooperative and called upon all the alumni of the Female Scholarship Foundation (FSF) to a Breakfast meeting scheduled to take place on 10th March 2018 in the Makerere University Main Hall. The aim of the Breakfast meeting is to prepare for the resource mobilization campaign to support bright but socio-economically disadvantaged girls to study at Makerere University under a theme: Drop a Coin and Forever Change aLife.
Makerere University Female Scholarship Foundation (FSF) was incorporated by the Makerere University Council in 2010 out of the Female Scholarship Initiative (FSI) established at Makerere University in 2001 with support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The goal is to support girls from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds to access university education thus contributing to the increased female enrolment, progression and achievement in University Education and ultimately improving the socio-economic development of the Ugandan society.
Article by:Mak Public Relations Office and Gender Mainstreaming Directorate
Photos by: Mr. Godfrey Kimono, Associate Photographer
Mastercard Foundation Scholars have been encouraged to embrace mentorship programmes as a way of maximising opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Mentorship is a professional relationship in which an experienced person (the mentor) supports another (the mentee) in developing specific skills and knowledge that enhance both professional and personal growth.
While speaking at a Mentor–Mentee matching session held on Saturday at the Central Teaching Facility, Mr Steven Langa, a counsellor and director at Family Life Network, told scholars that mentorship plays a pivotal role in preparing the next generation of leaders capable of transforming Uganda and Africa.
“We live at a very challenging time in history, a time when Uganda and Africa have to rise up to the occasion to provide leadership, professional excellence and innovation,” Mr Langa, said.
In his presentation, Mr Langa explained that a mentor is not a parent, therapist, or romantic partner, but rather a coach who helps the mentee build essential skills.
“The mentoring relationship is built on mutual trust, respect and communication and involves both parties meeting regularly to exchange ideas, discuss progress and set goals for further development. A mentor does not need to know, or to provide all the answers; instead, the mentor encourages the mentee to use their available resources to identify solutions,” Mr Langa, noted.
Speaking at the same event, Ms Eva Nabasumba, the Principal Academics and Career Development Officer at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, encouraged scholars to build strong relationships with their mentors, which could later provide credible referees for employment, scholarships and other opportunities.
She highlighted several benefits of mentorship for mentees, including gaining advice, knowledge and insights from experienced professionals; developing professional communication skills; building valuable industry networks; engaging in employment-related conversations; exploring career pathways; and learning strategies for job searches, résumé writing and interviews.
During the session, mentors introduced themselves to their new mentees, allowing scholars to identify and connect with suitable mentors. Some of the mentors are doctors, teachers, counsellors, engineer’s business people and Accountants.
Apollo Mulondo, one of the mentors, urged scholars to take the mentorship opportunity seriously and respect the time and commitment of their mentors.
“Some of us are who we are today because of our mentors. Our offices are always open to you, so feel free to visit anytime. It does not matter what your background is you can make it,” Mulondo said.
The mentor–mentee matching session enabled scholars to interact with professionals from different fields, giving them an opportunity to identify mentors whose experience aligns with their academic and career aspirations. The engagement also created a platform for scholars to begin building networks that will support their growth beyond the university.
General
Mak Cooperative Society holds AGM: Growth, Transparency and Member Welfare Take Centre Stage
“This is a perfectly managed Cooperative Society,” remarked CPA David Ssenoga, amidst applause from Members of the Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MUMCS).
CPA Ssenoga made the remarks on 4th March 2026 as he presented the Auditor’s report from SDS and Company Certified Public Accountants at the MUMCS Annual General Meeting (AGM).
The Auditor’s report for the year ended 31st December 2025 highlighted adherence to the best corporate governance practices, confirmed proper allocation of funds, value for money, and steady progress.
“The Cooperative Society was found to be in excellent standing, with operations in compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards for SMEs, the Cooperative Societies Act, and relevant Ugandan regulations. The operations are efficient and transparent,” he reported.
Mandate of MUMCS
Chairing the AGM, the Vice Chairperson, Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu-Musoke, underscored that the MUMCS exists to promote the welfare of members. In pursuit of this mandate, MUMCS provides access to affordable credit at interest rates that are significantly lower than those offered by other financial institutions. Such support, he noted, empowers members to strengthen their financial stability, invest in personal and professional goals, and ultimately enhance their overall well-being.
Steady progress
Highlighting MUMCS’ steady progress, Dr. Kiggundu-Musoke commended members for the tremendous growth recorded over time. He noted that the cooperative society had grown from handling a few hundreds of thousands of shillings in its early years to managing a portfolio now standing at approximately UGX 3.25 billion, a milestone he described as a reflection of collective effort, prudent management, and sustained member confidence.
He encouraged members to actively promote and popularise the cooperative within their respective departments. He proposed a structured approach of engaging Heads of Department to sensitize staff on the MUMCS’ services and benefits.
AGM highlights
The hybrid AGM, with physical participants assembled in the Main Building Senior Common Room, and virtual participants who followed the proceedings via zoom, provided a platform to review performance, highlight operational successes and governance milestones, as well as, finding solutions to challenges.
Secretary’s report
Presenting the report, MUMCS’ Secretary, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, highlighted the growth in membership to 160, including 27 new recruits – a testimony to the confidence in the quality of services provided.
Prof. Ireeta excited the members when he mentioned that the 2025 surplus of UGX 291 million was distributed to members, with administrative budgets executed as approved.
On the issue of financial discipline and meeting obligations, Prof. Ireeta notified the members that the Management Committee implemented strategies that ensured compliance. “Outstanding loan arrears were settled through deductions from dividends of the concerned members,” he stated.
The Secretary reported that as approved during the previous AGM, the Vetting Committee consisting of Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala (Chairperson), Prof. Lawrence Mugisha (Member) and Dr. Alex Okello (Member) had been constituted and has embarked on the tasks as per the terms of reference.
With reference to the Secretary’s report, the Members praised the MUMCS Management Committee headed by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, for ensuring the successful implementation of key decisions agreed upon during the previous AGM.
Treasurer’s report
The Treasurer, Prof. Juma Kasozi, provided members with a detailed overview of operations, liquidity, investments, and returns.
Emphasizing MUMCS’ commitment to transparency, Prof. Kasozi noted that the Management Committee ensures that the balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and trial balances are shared monthly with members, which enables them to monitor performance throughout the year.
Prof. Kasozi explained that the Cooperative Society maintains strong liquidity, with approximately UGX 1.6 billion invested with fund managers and insurance companies. These liquid investments he said, provide a solid foundation to support loans, withdrawals, and operational needs. He encouraged members to increase their savings and shareholdings, in order to strengthen MUMCS’s financial base and enhance lending capacity.
The Treasurer highlighted the Society’s loan products, including instant loans; which provide same-day disbursement and long-term term loans. He reported that in 2025, UGX 479 million was disbursed in instant loans, and UGX 913 million as long-term loans.
He informed the AGM that the major challenge faced during the year 2025, was premised on disruptions in payroll deductions. “Before this setback, payroll deductions generated over UGX 50 million per month. Due to temporary disruptions, the amount generated reduced to UGX 20 million,” he explained.
The Treasurer briefed the members that discussions with the payroll management team had been successful, and full deductions were expected to resume, a step that would restore the expected income stream of the Cooperative Society.
He re-assured members that despite challenges with payroll deductions, MUMCS remains financially stable, with strong liquidity, robust investments, sound loan recovery mechanisms, and a commitment to member welfare.
He encouraged members to recruit colleagues, increase shareholding, and actively participate in strengthening the Cooperative Society’s growth and impact.
Members applaud the Management Committee
Impressed by the reports presented by the Secretary and Treasurer, the Members praised the MUMCS Management Committee headed by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, for the successful implementation of key decisions agreed upon during the previous AGM.
Presentation from the Welfare Committee
On behalf of the Welfare Committee, Ms. Ritah Namisango, commended the Management Committee for effectively implementing the Society’s Welfare Policy. Ms. Namisango noted that the policy stipulates the contribution to weddings, loss of a member, and/or when a member loses a parent, spouse and a biological child. She encouraged the members to read the Welfare Policy in order to tap into the benefits that accrue to them.
“We invite all members to read the Welfare Policy and inform the Management Committee early enough whenever a situation arises. I am glad that, because of transparency and communication through the WhatsApp group, most of you have been notifying the Executive Committee promptly. Most of the Members who have received contributions from MUMCS during such situations, have acknowledged receipt, and gone an extra mile, to send messages of gratitude via MUMCS’ WhatsApp group,” she said.
She welcomed the AGM’s approval of an additional UGX 2.5 million allocation to the Welfare Fund, to boost the Cooperative Society’s ability to extend support as well as standing in solidarity with the Members.
The Welfare Committee consists of Ms. Ritah Namisango, Dr. Oscar Mugula and Mr. Michael Kasusse.
Supervisory Committee report
The Chairperson, Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi, congratulated the Management Committee and the Members, upon the positive financial performance of MUMCS with a gross surplus of UGX 351,533,935/=, and a net surplus of UGX 49,510,181/= after deduction of all expenses.
Concerned that some members have faced challenges with payroll deductions, the Supervisory committee welcomed the progress reported by the Secretary toward resolving the issue.
He stated that the Committee reviewed the financial proposals presented by the management committee and endorsed the recommended dividend payment of UGX 38,630,000 to shareholders, noting that dividends cannot exceed 10 percent under the law.
In addition, the Committee supported payments to service providers, the purchase of a second laptop to enhance data security, the use of cloud and external storage for safeguarding records, the proposed welfare and AGM budgets, and the allocation of 65% of the gross surplus as return on savings.
The Supervisory Committee consists of Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi (Chairperson), Prof. Edgar Nabutanyi (Member) and Dr. Jamidah Nakato (Member).
Closing remarks
Closing the AGM, Dr. Kiggundu-Musoke thanked members for their active participation and challenged them to actively support the growth of the cooperative society. He emphasized that membership growth would not only strengthen the Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society’s financial standing, but also enhance dividend returns for all members.
General
Makerere University and World Bank Sign Partnership to Strengthen Environmental and Social Sustainability Capacity
On 5th March 2026, Makerere University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Development Association (IDA), the financing arm of the World Bank Group, establishing a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening environmental and social sustainability systems in Uganda and the wider East African region.
The collaboration brings together Makerere University through the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) and the World Bank to jointly advance training, research, and policy advisory in environmental and social sustainability.
The three-year agreement provides a framework for cooperation focused on building national capacity to manage environmental and social risks associated with large-scale development investments.
Advancing Sustainable Development through Knowledge Partnerships
The partnership will be anchored in the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre (ESSC) at Makerere University, a national hub established to promote applied research, policy engagement, and professional training in environmental and social governance.
Through the Centre, the two institutions will collaborate to strengthen Uganda’s ability to plan and implement development projects in ways that safeguard communities and the environment.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Ms. Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala, the World Bank Country Manager emphasised that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening systems that support sustainable growth.
“This partnership with Makerere University is an important step in strengthening Uganda’s systems for environmental and social sustainability. By working through the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre, we aim to build the capacity of professionals across government, the private sector, and development institutions to better manage environmental and social risks and deliver investments that promote sustainable growth while protecting people and the environment.” Ms. Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala, World Bank Country Manager, Uganda, noted.
The partnership will support training, research, and policy advisory activities through the ESSC, helping Uganda pursue a development trajectory that promotes economic growth while protecting people and the environment.
Building National Capacity for Environmental and Social Risk Management
Uganda’s development agenda under the Fourth National Development Plan prioritises large-scale investments in infrastructure, agro-industrialisation, energy, and science and technology. However, such investments require strong environmental and social risk management systems to ensure sustainable outcomes.
The new partnership, therefore, focuses on building a skilled workforce capable of applying international best practices in environmental and social governance.
Under the MoU, Makerere University will design and deliver demand-driven short-course training programs targeting public sector officials, development practitioners, financial institutions, civil society organisations, and private sector actors implementing major projects.
Seven certificate-level short courses have already been developed and approved across multiple colleges at the University. These courses cover areas such as environmental and social risk management, climate risk assessment, construction health and safety, and integrating environmental and social considerations into investment cycles.
“Makerere Universityis proud to partner with the World Bank in strengthening Uganda’s capacity to manage environmental and social risks in development investments. Through the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre, we have already developed and approved seven certificate-level short courses across multiple colleges, designed to equip professionals in government, the private sector, and development institutions with practical skills to plan and implement sustainable projects. This collaboration reflects Makerere’s commitment to providing knowledge-driven solutions that support Uganda’s development while safeguarding communities and the environment.” Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe noted.
Strengthening Collaboration between Academia and Development Partners
As part of the agreement, the World Bank will support the development and delivery of the training programs, including conducting Training of Trainers (ToT) on the Bank’s Environment and Social Standards and international best practices.
The Bank will also leverage its convening power to encourage participation from development partners, government institutions, and project implementers, while supporting impact monitoring of trained professionals to document improvements in project performance and job creation.
The collaboration will further promote professional networking, policy dialogue, knowledge exchange, and the development of knowledge hubs containing environmental and social tools, databases, and resources for practitioners.
Positioning Makerere as a Regional Knowledge Hub
Through this partnership, Makerere University seeks to position the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre as a leading knowledge hub for environmental and social governance in Africa.
By combining academic expertise with the World Bank’s global experience in development financing and technical assistance, the initiative is expected to strengthen the institutional capacity required to deliver sustainable and climate-resilient investments in Uganda.
The partnership also aligns with the World Bank’s broader commitment to supporting Uganda’s development agenda and strengthening country systems for environmental and social sustainability.
Together, the two institutions aim to equip professionals across government, the private sector, and development organizations with the skills required to ensure that Uganda’s development pathway remains inclusive, responsible, and environmentally sustainable.
Caroline Kainomugisha is the Communications Officer, Advancement Office, Makerere University
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