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Makerere- Nelson Mandela University strengthen ties to find solutions to African challenges

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On 30th April 2018, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe together with the Vice Chancellor of Nelson Mandela University Prof Sibongile Muthwa signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen the long term relationship between the two universities. The signing ceremony was held in the Council Room and was witnessed by the High Commissioner of South Africa to Uganda H.E. Prof.  Major-General (rtd) Lekoa Solly Mollo, the Senior Director at Nelson Mandela University Prof. Nico Jooste , the Director of Legal Affairs Mr. Henry Mwebe, the International Relations Officer Ms. Martha Muwanguzi, members of Makerere University Management, Alumni from Nelson Mandela University and other delegates.

L-R, The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor of Nelson Mandela University Prof Sibongile Muthwa  and  the High Commissioner of South Africa to Uganda H.E. Prof.  Major-General (rtd) Lekoa Solly Mollo.

The Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding stipulates an in depth relationship between the two universities on human resource development, research enhancement, and a joint effort to look for resources with the aim of finding solutions to African problems. Some of areas the Universities agreed to focus on included: 

•    Oceans and cultural studies
•    Sustainable livelihood studies
•    Gender studies
•    Medicinal science
•    Peace and conflict resolutions.
•    Information and Communication Technologies
•    and Agriculture Sciences 

Addressing Makerere University Management team, Prof Sibongile Muthwa said that there is need for African Universities to channel resources to research and other developments that focus on solving African challenges. “Africa for long has been hit by poverty, unemployment, famine, climate change, conflicts, wars, epidemic diseases among others. We cannot hide the fact that we are lagging behind in terms of development yet we have some of the best researchers and academicians. It is high time we solve our own problems because we know them better. Let us join hands, knowledge and information to have long lasting solutions to these problems,” she said. 

She acknowledged Makerere University for taking the lead in promoting Pan Africanism when she said, “Makerere University is indeed a Pan Africanist University. The institution has groomed several African presidents, notable leaders, renowned academicians and researchers on the African continent and around the world. I therefore believe that this collaboration will meet its intended objectives,” she said. 

Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe exchanging the MoU with   the Vice Chancellor of Nelson Mandela University Prof Sibongile Muthwa. Witnessing, is the Senior Director at Nelson Mandela University Prof. Nico Jooste , the Director of Legal Affairs Mr. Henry Mwebe and  the International Relations Officer Ms. Martha Muwanguzi

The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, warmly welcomed Prof Sibongile Muthwa and other delegates to Makerere University, the hub of Africa’s research. In a special way he welcomed the High Commissioner of South Africa to Uganda, and thanked him for his tremendous support to ensure practical relationships between Makerere University and universities from South Africa.  

Speaking about the MoU and its intents, the Vice Chancellor said that Makerere University has for long engaged in activities that are geared towards finding solutions to African problems. The intuitions has engaged in developing human resource capacity that has strongly supported the economic and industrial sector of Uganda and Africa at large. Makerere University is known for having the best tropical medicine school in the whole world where research on tropical medicine is done. According to Prof. Nawangwe, the institution is ranked as one of the best research led University in Africa due its prominent research activities on epidemics and other research areas. 

“We have led research on HIV in the whole world, developed one of the best Infectious Disease Institute in the whole world, we have led research on Malaria and Ebola. We have made strong developments in agriculture and natural sciences and we have one of the best laboratories in veterinary medicine. We are strong in humanities and in geographical positions, we take the lead in supporting universities in troubled areas through our Centre on Peace and Conflict Management,” said Prof. Nawangwe. 

The Vice Chancellor expressed gratitude on behalf of Makerere University for having honoured the late Winnie Madikizela-Mandela during her days. 

Delegates  posing for a photo infront of Makerere University Main Building.

“Africans, we should wake up and find solutions to our problems. Let us focus on the core production of knowledge and the ability to communicate and disseminate the knowledge. Another area of emphasis is the relevancy of the collaborations. We need to engage in areas that we believe are relevant to our society,” said the High Commissioner of South Africa to Uganda H.E. Prof.  Major-General (rtd) Lekoa Solly Mollo.

He appreciated Makerere University’s move to award Ms. Winnie Madikizela-Mandela with an Honorary Doctorate of Laws of Makerere University in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the liberation struggle of South Africa and Africa at large.

During the meeting, the Senior Director at Nelson Mandela University Prof. Nico Jooste said that there is need to identify new areas such as forestry where both universities can join hands to deepen their relationship. The Director of Research and Graduate Training Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi also noted that universities should work together to improve research incomes to support research activities. 

The President of the Nelson Mandela University Alumni Association Dr. Nuwagaba Geoffrey said that the Association is upholding the core values of the University and preserving the long lasting legacy of Nelson Mandela as a person through different activities that are carried out by alumni of the University around the world.  Dr  Milly Kwagala, an alumnus of Nelson Mandela University, who is  currently the Dean of Faculty  Business Administration  and Management  at Ndejje University appreciated Nelson Mandela University for brightening the future of an African child through academic support. 

The Vice Chancellor of Nelson Mandela University Prof Sibongile Muthwa together with  the High Commissioner of South Africa to Uganda H.E. Prof.  Major-General (rtd) Lekoa Solly Mollo and other delegates touring the Makerere University Library.

After the informative meeting, the delegates visited Makerere University Library and the College of Computing and information Sciences. 

Nelson Mandela University (formerly Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, NMMU) is a South African university with its main administration in the coastal city of Port Elizabeth. The University was founded through a merger of three institutions in January 2005, but its history dates back to 1882, with the foundation of the Port Elizabeth Art School. Nelson Mandela University is a comprehensive university offering professional and vocational training. The University has seven campuses; six in Port Elizabeth and one in George. The main campus of the university is South Campus. 

Article by Proscovia Nabatte, Mak Public Relations Office.   
 

Proscovia Nabatte

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Makerere University Fees Waiver for 40 First Year Female Students 2025/2026

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Makerere University Tuition and Functional Fees Waiver is a Scholarship Scheme that was initiated by Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate and was approved by the Makerere University Council in December 2010. The Scheme supports bright female students from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds to access education at Makerere University. The University waives off tuition and functional fees for the duration of the study of the beneficiaries of the scheme. With effect from 2021/2022 academic year, the Scheme has offered waiver of tuition and functional fees for 40 female students joining the University who meet the criteria. All Programmes in the Colleges at Makerere University Main Campus and at Makerere University Jinja Campus are eligible for this Scholarship support. These scholarships are administered by the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Makerere University. Persons with disabilities are highly encouraged to apply.

ELIGIBILITY

Scholarship applicants should meet the following criteria:

  1. Should be female of Ugandan Nationality
  2. Should be a first-year student admitted at Makerere University Main Campus and Jinja Campus for the academic year 2025/2026 under the Direct Entry Scheme.
  3. Should be from a genuinely disadvantaged socio-economic background.
  4. Those not admitted on Uganda Government sponsorship to any public university.
  5. Those who do not hold any other scholarship e.g. District Scholarship
  6. Must be willing to participate in a selection process as shall be determined by the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate Scholarship Committee.

THE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION FORM SUBMITTED SHALL BE DEEMED COMPLETE ONCE IT CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ATTACHMENTS;

  1. Copies of ‘O’ and ‘A’ level academic documents.
  2. One Passport size photograph.
  3. A Copy of the applicant’s birth certificate.
  4. Incase of deceased parent (s), a copy of death certificate(s)
  5. A hand drawn physical map of an applicant’s home/residence with clear directions of how to get to that home or residence from the nearest main road (indicate approximate distances in kilometres).
  6. A copy of the admission letter to Makerere University.

The scholarship covers only tuition and functional fees. The applicant must be able to pay for their feeding, accommodation and other learning necessities required by the University for the duration of the study period.

Interested and eligible applicants can pick application forms free of charge from the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Senate Building, Level 4, Room 402 OR download a copy from the Makerere University Website: https://mak.ac.ug/

You can also access more information on our X handle @MakerereGMD

For more information or inquiries, please contact us using the following contacts:

Office Mobile Numbers: +256702960616 / +256781866728
Email Address: director.gendermainstreaming@mak.ac.ug

The Application deadline is Monday, 8th August 2025 at 5:00pm.

Euzobia Mugisha Baine (PhD)
Chief Gender Mainstreaming Officer

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Korean Language Courses-Semester

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Students walk into the Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Centre for Language and Communication Services (CLCS), College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Makerere University in collaboration with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) invite applications for Korean Language Classes for students and members of the public.

Courses by Level

  • Beginner
  • Elementary
  • Intermediate
  • Online
  • TOPIK

Instructor: Wongo Yoon wongoyoon@gmail.com

Registration is open, you can register to join the class at any time.

Registration:

To register, call the Centre for Language and Communication Services (CLCS): +256 756 12 8046 / +256 775 424704

Fee: UGX 80,000 a semester

For more information Whatsapp: +256 790 505658 (Yoon) / +256 757 710511 (Mariam)

See downloads for Class Timetable

The Korean Corner is located on the 2nd floor of the Main Library at Makerere University.

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NCBA Commits UGX 1.45 Billion to Makerere Marathon, Pledges Five-Year Support for Inclusive Education

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (C) flanked by Dr. Maggie Kigozi (R) and Mr. Mark Muyobo (L) on 9th July 2025 at Makerere University. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.

By Eve Nakyanzi and Atwenda Nancy

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. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
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. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
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.

Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
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 Writers are Interns in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University

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