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
General
Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University encouraged to participate in philanthropy work
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.
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.
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.
“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.
“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.
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.
“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.
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.
Carol Kasujja and Bernard Buteera form the communications team for the Scholars Programme at Makerere University.
Makerere University, through the Makerere University Convocation (MUC), has hosted the first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit on Tuesday, 2nd September 2025. The historic event brought together alumni, Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), and stakeholders in a distinguished assembly aimed at re-imagining the university’s role in national and continental transformation.
The Convocation, which serves as a critical forum for foresight and life-transformational dialogue, unveiled five transformative points carefully crafted to transform Makerere from a symbolic “ivory tower” into an “impact tower” that influences the country and the world more than ever before.
Government Endorsement and Call to Action
The Chief Guest, Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, was represented at the event by the 3rd Deputy Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga. She conveyed warm greetings from H.E. the President of Uganda, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister.
She commended the Convocation for convening under the summit under a significant and timely theme: “Exploring the Opportunities for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Value Creation for Accelerated Socio-Economic Integration and Development of Sub-Saharan Africa.”
She described the summit as not just a gathering but a journey and a call to action, urging academia, industry, and government to align efforts with Uganda’s and Africa’s transformation priorities.
Framing her remarks around the World Bank’s guiding principles—Trust, Humility, Inclusion, Collaboration, and Knowledge—she explained:
- “Trust must be built between government, academia, and business… the gathering reflects the trust in CEOs and investors to walk this journey together.”
- “Humility requires listening and learning, recognizing that no single institution has all the answers.”
- “Inclusion reminds us that no youth, woman, or marginalized group should be left behind in transformation.”
- “Collaboration is the currency of progress, necessary for solving complex challenges across sectors.”
- “Knowledge remains our greatest asset, with Makerere University demonstrating its importance in moving from ivory towers to communities to transform lives.”
She then unveiled a “massive transformation purpose”, commissioning five working teams led by CEOs and investors. The teams, nominated lead persons, and their respective objectives included:
- From Ivory Tower to Impact Tower – Dr. Patricia Ojangole (UDB) with Patrick Ayota (NSSF), translating research into market-ready innovations.
- Diaspora Dividend vs Brain Drain – Jennifer Bamuturaki (Uganda Airlines) with Michael Mugabi (Housing Finance Bank), harnessing diaspora capital, skills, and mentorship.
- Intergenerational Knowledge Bridges – Fabian Kasi (Centenary Bank) with Ajay Kumar (Quality Chemicals), institutionalizing mentorship and reverse mentorship.
- Climate and Infrastructure Leadership – Proscovia Nabbanja (UNOC) with Silver Mugisha (NWSC), anchoring research in energy security, green transition, and infrastructure.
- Pan-African Digital and AI Advantage – Sylvia Mulinge (MTN Uganda) with Mumba Kalifungwa (Stanbic Bank), positioning Makerere as Africa’s digital and AI hub.
She pledged full government support, noting that the teams would convene in the Office of the President. “This summit is not ceremonial but a covenant,” she stressed.
The Minister’s Reflection
Hon. Balaam Barugahara, State Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development in charge of Children and Youth Affairs, emphasized that the summit was not a party but a process of transformation.
Drawing from personal experience, he recalled joining Makerere in 2000 and completing his degree in seven years due to balancing work, hustling for fees, and studying. He praised the university’s role in shaping his success and highlighted recent developments such as the renovation of Mary Stuart Hall and revamping the Main and Western gates, as milestones that have enhanced Makerere’s image. He equally applauded the curbing of staff and student unrest.
He noted that the summit aimed to facilitate networking, mentorship, career opportunities, and university development, signalling collective commitment to Uganda’s transformation.
Council’s Vision: A Legacy Re-imagined
Representing Makerere University Council Chairperson Ms. Lorna Magara, Prof. Sarah Ssali described the summit as a “historic alumni CEO investor round table” and a reaffirmation of Makerere’s role in Africa’s development. She described the university as a “cradle of leadership, innovation and resilience”, noting that the gathering’s objectives included fostering partnerships, showcasing research, launching a fundraising drive, and strengthening alumni engagement. Prof. Ssali emphasized that alumni relations must go beyond occasional financial contributions during events, to continuous communication and genuine relationships. “This summit marks the start of a journey, not just an isolated event,” she reechoed.
Vice Chancellor on Unlocking Makerere’s Potential
Reflecting on the theme of his bid for the Office of Vice Chancellor, “Unlocking the Potential of Makerere University,” Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe noted that while many only celebrate the absence of strikes, behind the calmness is a vibrant transformation.
He highlighted Makerere’s alumni strength, with over 20,000 CEOs globally, and underscored their contributions to Uganda’s economy, governance, health, sports, and research. “What would Uganda do without Makerere?” he pondered. Prof. Nawangwe quickly added that the moment was ripe for Makerere to collaborate more with diaspora alumni so as to tap into fast-evolving niches such as blockchain.
Convocation’s Strategic Role
MUC Chairperson CPA George Mugabi Turyamureeba outlined the Convocation’s mission to support the university’s growth and well-being. He highlighted innovations such as the Convocation House, the annual luncheon for first-class graduates and their parents, mentorship programs, and the MUC SACCO as initiatives that his team had established and promoted during the term so far. The Chairperson nevertheless urged the CEOs present to enable the Convocation have greater impact collaborating on existing as well as envisaged projects such as the Convocation Innovation Centre.
Adding her voice, Vice Chairperson Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto urged participants—described as “movers and shakers” of Uganda’s economy—to ensure that their decisions today would be celebrated by future generations.
Keynote Address: The Journey’s Just Began
In his keynote, Dr. Peter Kimbowa, Founder and Board Chair of the CEO Summit and Makerere alumnus, congratulated his alma mater on the initiative and reaffirmed the Convocation’s strategic role.
He emphasized that the Round Table Summit should not be seen as a one-time event but as an ongoing journey, echoing American Football Player Jalen Hurts’ mantra: “There’s no arrival. Only the journey.” Dr. Kimbowa defined the Convocation as a community of leaders, alumni, and faculty united by heritage and vision. He described it as a bridge connecting:
- The past to the future,
- Business and industry to academia, and
- Learning to market needs.
He stressed that the Convocation’s ultimate goal was to transform Makerere into a self-sustaining engine of innovation, opportunity, and national transformation. Drawing on corporate insights, he challenged participants to always ask “what is the next opportunity?” and warned against complacency. He unpacked the massive transformation purpose structured around five working teams which MUC has developed, whereby corporate chief executives from Uganda are called upon to lead collaboration with the university. He highlighted the importance of mobilizing talent to connect with successful Ugandan alumni, underscoring the need for local CEOs to harness talent in the diaspora. He emphasized deliberate action, mobilization of global alumni talent, and collaboration between CEOs and the university to sustain transformation
Panel Discussions and Triple Helix Framework
The day’s panel discussion featured Mr. Samuel Mwogeza (Executive Director, Stanbic Bank), Mr. Peter Sibukule (Headmaster, Busoga College Mwiri), Mr. Clovice Bright Irumba (Petroleum Authority of Uganda), and Ms. Grace Cherotich.
Mr. Mwogeza stressed the need to commercialize university prototypes and ideas. He explained that banks like Stanbic use their networks to strengthen innovators’ business cases, preparing them for market entry. Mr. Sibukule on the other hand called for transformation of mindsets right from secondary school level so that students are well primed to communicate, collaborate, uphold integrity and good work attitudes over qualifications in the marketplace. Mr. Irumba highlighted efforts by the PAU to create more opportunities for Ugandan entities to get involved in the oil and gas sector thanks to gaps highlighted by a study undertaken by the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC). Ms. Cherotich on the other hand invited CEOs to take interest in research outputs of the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) and reassured the audience of the Convocation’s readiness to provide a trusted platform for engagement with industry.
Contributing to the day’s discussion, Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo, Executive Director of the Uganda Vice Chancellors’ Forum (UVF), reminded the audience of the “Triple Helix” model and it’s underlying policy frameworks that in the recent past guided collaboration between universities, government, and the private sector. He observed Uganda’s lack of a robust framework, and called for policies that tie tax incentives to university support by corporations and other business entities.
Proceedings
The inaugural edition of the summit was moderated by Dr. Tayeebwa William from the Department of Journalism and Communication who doubles as Managing Editor Makerere University Press and Dr. Viola Karungi from the Department of Performing Arts and Film (PAF).
The PAF team took charge of the leading the anthems and day’s entertainment, which included a poetic presentation of the Makerere University Anthem.
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