General
WBG Economic Update Makes Case for Investing More in Uganda’s Education
On Thursday, 30th May 2019, Makerere University was privileged to host the official launch of the Uganda Economic Update, 13th Edition in partnership with the World Bank Group (WBG). Held in the Main Hall, the event was presided over by the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, who represented the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni.
Delivering the welcome remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe thanked the World Bank Group chiefly represented by the Uganda Country Manager Mr. Antony Thompson, for choosing Makerere University to host the event. He noted that the theme for the 13th Edition; Economic Development and Human Capital in Uganda: A case for Investing more in Education particularly fits in well with Makerere’s mandate to produce quality human resources for the region.
“The 13th Economic Update highlights pertinent issues rotating around improving quality in the Uganda’s Education sector, which are also at the heart of Makerere University. I particularly appreciate the World Bank’s Human Capital Index (HCI) that measures the impact of under investing in human capital on the productivity of the next generation of workers” added Prof. Nawangwe.
Prof. Nawangwe further thanked the World Bank for collaborating with staff at the School of Economics to produce and disseminate the 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th Uganda Economic Updates as well as allocating a US$900,000 grant to establish a Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence at the same School. He noted that the two World Bank funded Centres of Excellence the; African Center of Excellence in Materials, Product Development and Nano-Technology (MAPRONANO) and Makerere University Regional Centre of Excellence in Crop Improvement (MaRCCI) had since inception recruited students at Masters and PhD level, procured equipment and facilitated various capacity building trainings for staff.
In his remarks, Mr. Antony Thompson thanked the Vice Chancellor and University leadership for accepting to host the launch of the 13th Edition of the Economic Update. Admitting that the launch was his inaugural visit to Makerere, he could not hide his admiration for the job well done by KCCA in rehabilitating infrastructure at the University as part of the Second Kampala Institutional and Infrastructure Development Project (KIIDP-2).
Mr. Thompson observed that although Uganda’s economy remains strong and stable, it still faces major risks such as poor quality of the human capital. He advised that countries can only end extreme poverty and create more inclusive societies if they invest in developing their human capital. “In addition to the economic benefits, basic education increases individual’s earnings by about 70 percent. Education reduces the risk of poverty and provides other benefits, including lower under-age pregnancy and better health outcomes.”
The Country Manager however noted that despite advances such as Universal Primary Education (UPE) made by the Ugandan Education sector, the country’s Human Capital Index still remains low. “A child born in Uganda today will be only 38% as productive when she grows up as she could be if she enjoyed complete education and full health.”
He also reported that over 1.4million pupils currently drop out from primary schools and never make it to P7. He nevertheless opined that when this trend is addressed, one million new places need to be created in lower secondary schools in next 6 years to accommodate this additional intake.
“Achieving these ambitious results will require significant changes in educational policy and major additional investments of at least $2 billion between 2019 and 2025 to improve both the quality of learning and enrollment. This requires increasing the current education spending from 10 percent to reach the sub Saharan average of 16 percent” explained the Country Manager.
He nevertheless reiterated the World Bank’s commitment to support the Ugandan Government to realize these goals.
The panel discussion that followed the presentation of the Economic Update brought to light a number of initiatives being undertaken by the Ugandan Government in partnership with the World Bank as well as several points of reflection. The presentation underscored the need to increase budgetary allocation to the Education Sector, expand early childhood (pre-primary) education, scrap the Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) in preference for continuous assessment, adopt the automatic promotion policy and improve the transition rate from Primary to Secondary school among other recommendations.
The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES), Mr. Alex Kakooza shared that through the Uganda Teacher and School Effectiveness Project (UTSEP), MoES had with support from the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) under supervision of the World Bank been able to improve early grade literacy instruction and parent participation in children education. UTSEP has also improved parent participation in school activities like feeding programmes. He added that the outcomes from the pilot districts in Eastern Uganda had been tremendous so far, with pupils as low as P3 exhibiting improved literacy and numeracy skills.
Mr. Kakooza however observed that more resources will be required to implement the World Bank recommendations, especially in the recruitment of more teachers and construction of additional classrooms. “Currently, over 1,000 parishes in Uganda do not have primary schools. If these were to be constructed, an additional 20,000 teachers would need to be recruited to teach these pupils.”
He nevertheless thanked the World Bank for sharing cost effective infrastructure development plans, which would enable the Ministry meet the rapidly growing demand for classroom space.
The Executive Director National Planning Authority (NPA), Dr. Joseph Muvawala observed that whereas Uganda constantly trumped up the benefits of reaping a demographic dividend from its relatively young population, well structured investments were of utmost importance. “I thank the World Bank for this report but wish to state that dividends accrue to those that invest and it is clear that we are not investing enough.”
On the scrapping of PLE, Dr. Muvawala said that whereas this was technically the most viable option, it would not be implementable as observations had revealed teachers’ preference of a final exam over continuous assessment. He also stressed the need to further investigate the high dropouts recorded at primary level and come up with investments aimed at addressing the findings.
The Deputy Secretary to the Treasury, Mr. Patrick Ocailap’s opportunity to speak was highly anticipated as most recommendations had in essence called for increased budgetary allocation to the Education sector. He thanked the World Bank Group for its report and concurred with all the findings and conclusions therein. He nevertheless asked the calls for increased funding to be matched with an analysis of efficient use of current allocations to the sector.
Mr. Ocailap also advocated for improved efficiency in revenue collection as a way of boosting government revenue but cautioned that as the economy expands, marginal and not proportional allocations to the education sector might be the more viable option.
The Deputy Secretary to Treasury also weighed in on the calls for increased salaries to teachers, noting that they were indeed legitimate. He however emphasised that this ought to be balanced by evident improvements in students’ performance and improved efficiency of teaching in schools.
Mr. Patrick Kaboyo the Executive Director, Coalition of Uganda Private School Teachers Association (COUPSTA) reminded the gathering that whereas world leaders meeting in Muscat, Oman in 2014 had agreed to commit 6% of national GDP to Education, Uganda’s commitment still stood at less than 3%. He nevertheless applauded the Cabinet for approving the National Teacher Policy on 1st April 2019, which would go a long way in improving teachers’ productivity, discipline, retention and motivation.
He acknowledged that whereas the Ugandan Education Sector is currently in reform mode, there was need to look beyond improving access and massification to ensuring that the sector produces critical thinkers. These, he noted, would be better suited to function in today’s creativity-driven marketplace.
A curriculum that matches personal development and attainment of knowledge with the skills that meet current industry demands will be a great asset to the implementation of WBG recommendations and achievement of the Education Sector’s targets. Dr. Rovincer Najjuma a Lecturer and Curriculum Specialist in the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) shared that Uganda requires a curriculum that offers holistic development of skills at all levels of education because the employability of a workforce starts with skills developed right from the foundational stages of lower primary.
She however cautioned that developing a great curriculum should not take precedence over the training of quality teachers. This position, she said, was derived from reports showing that a child in sub-Saharan Africa spends a great percentage of their school going age interacting with teachers. As such, teachers possibly have the greatest influence on pupils. She therefore advocated for a Centre of Excellence to develop teachers’ capabilities.
Delivering the final address of the day, the Guest of Honour, Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo thanked the Makerere University Management for accepting to host the important launch. He equally thanked the WBG Country Director for the well researched report, noting that it would generate a lot of debate from almost every Ugandan. He asked the audience to observe a moment of silence in respect of a great academic and former Prime Minister and Chancellor of Makerere University, Rt. Hon. Prof. Apolo Robin Nsibambi who passed away on Tuesday 28th May 2019.
Reading the First Lady and Honourable Minister of Education and Sports’ remarks, Hon. Muyingo said that Africa has been reported as the region of the world having the highest return on Education. He shared that MoES has been reviewing the Government White Paper on Education (1992), which analyses the full scope of education sector and its polices. He added that MoES is working with the WBG under the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) to review Uganda’s Integrated Early Childhood Development Policy so as to ensure adherence to minimum standards.
The State Minister for Education further reported that the Government had approved the Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Policy. The policy will pave way for an employer-led TVET System and TVET Qualification Framework. He added that MoES would soon come up with an ICT Education Policy to enhance access to the vast online resources.
Hon. Muyingo concluded his remarks by appreciating all partners who work with the Ministry of Education and Sports to ensure timely delivery of quality education and thanked WBG for the well-timed release of the report, noting that it will inform ongoing policy reform.
Article by Public Relations Office.
General
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University Celebrates the Last Cohort of Phase One Graduates
At the just-concluded 76th Graduation Ceremony at Makerere University, which took place between 24th and 27th February 2026, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University celebrated the graduation of the final Cohort of 10 Mastercard Foundation Scholars from the first phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (2013-2023). This brings the total number of graduates from Phase One to 974 out of the 1,032 Mastercard Foundation Scholars recruited.
Who are these 10 graduates, and what are their dreams and aspirations?
ACOLA Jackline graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Conservation Biology from the College of Natural Sciences. Her passion for nature and commitment to addressing environmental issues, including degradation, pollution, and the unsustainable exploitation of natural resources, have motivated her to pursue a career in conservation. As a conservation biologist, Jackline’s primary objective is to ensure that natural resources and the environment are preserved in their pristine state. She is dedicated to promoting sustainable resource utilisation and advocating for eco-friendly business practices. To achieve this, she plans to implement comprehensive conservation education initiatives for the general public.
AJIAMBO Eunice graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce. She is motivated and detail-oriented, with a strong academic foundation in accounting, taxation, finance, and business management. Her programme provided her with practical knowledge and analytical skills relevant to today’s dynamic commercial environment. During her academic journey, she developed a strong interest in taxation and financial compliance. She undertook coursework and case studies that enhanced her understanding of corporate taxation, value-added tax, financial reporting, and business decision-making. These experiences strengthened her ability to analyse financial information, interpret regulations, and apply commercial principles effectively. Eunice aspires to build a professional career in finance and taxation, with a focus on tax advisory, revenue administration, and corporate finance. She is passionate about ethical business practices and believes that effective financial management and tax compliance are essential for sustainable economic growth.
Dr. AKITE Flowrence graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine, a testament to resilience and support. Losing her father at a young age could have derailed her aspirations, but instead, it fueled her determination to succeed. Throughout her academic career, she received encouragement and assistance from generous individuals who recognised her outstanding academic achievements. As a Mastercard Foundation Scholar, she not only excelled academically but also actively engaged in her community, treating animals as she gained experience as a vet student. In her hometown of Dokolo, Northern Uganda, she has played a vital role in treating animals and enhancing the health and welfare of local livestock.
AUMA Barbra attained a Bachelor of Arts with Education, representing a significant milestone in her educational journey. Hailing from a modest family of eight children, she faced numerous challenges on her path to higher education, particularly after her father, a security guard, was unable to fund her university tuition following her Senior Six. Consequently, her graduation not only signifies a personal accomplishment but also embodies a remarkable triumph over adversity. Her academic excellence earned her a place in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, a pivotal opportunity that enabled her to pursue her dreams. Barbra is particularly dedicated to advocating for girls’ education.
Dr. BABALANDA Immaculate is a dedicated veterinary professional who recently completed her Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine. Throughout her studies, she maintained a strong focus on animal health, food safety, and sustainable livestock systems. Passionate about agricultural innovation, she founded the Green Grub Revolution Project, which promotes black soldier fly larvae as a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to traditional poultry feed. Her work focuses on bridging the gap between scientific research and grassroots community needs. Currently, through her Fellowship at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI-Nairobi), Immaculate is strengthening her research and leadership in one health and climate-smart livestock production. She envisions a career at the intersection of veterinary medicine and agricultural innovation, where she can scale sustainable feed alternatives and contribute to resilient food systems across Africa.
MAZAPKWE Vicky proudly earned her Bachelor of Business Administration, showcasing the remarkable outcomes of determination and resilience in overcoming adversity. Having lost both parents at a young age, pursuing higher education seemed an unattainable dream. However, with her auntie’s unwavering support, she successfully completed her primary and secondary education. Her dedication and academic excellence earned her a place in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, paving the way for her academic journey at Makerere University. Now equipped with her degree, Vicky has set her sights on becoming a successful businesswoman while nurturing her passion for storytelling as a film writer and director. She is grateful for the opportunities provided by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which not only empowered her but also inspired her to launch a project that supports orphans in her community.
NAMATOVU Noeline graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration. A daughter of a single mother, her graduation is both a joy and big relief to her mother.
After the loss of her father, she received invaluable support from a priest, a friend of her late dad.
“The priest took me to school and covered my fees until I completed Senior Six. Although he couldn’t help with university expenses, it motivated me to seek a scholarship, and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University enabled me to pursue my university education.” Namatovu shares. Initially aspiring to be a doctor, she found the sciences challenging and shifted her focus to accounting, where she plans to major and pursue professional qualifications. Her achievements have inspired young people in her community.
NAMIYINGO Christine graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with Education, majoring in Economics. Her academic journey has been challenging, particularly given her experience with bipolar disorder; however, she is grateful for the support she has received from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team at Makerere University. She is keen to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) to strengthen her expertise in Business Management and realise her aspiration of becoming an entrepreneur. Beyond her academic pursuits, Christine is deeply committed to her faith, which she considers a significant factor in her success. She is also dedicated to assisting those in need, guided by a belief that acts of generosity are rewarded. Inspired by accomplished individuals, she actively seeks mentorship to foster her personal development.
NAMONGIN Alice is a dedicated development practitioner, climate justice advocate, and youth leader from Uganda’s Karamoja region. As a Mastercard Foundation Scholar at Makerere University, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Statistics, with a focus on research and social entrepreneurship. She founded the Nurture HER Initiative, a youth-led venture that promotes climate resilience and girls’ education in Indigenous communities. She has trained over 70 Indigenous youth volunteers, supported climate education in schools, and promoted sustainable solutions. With interests in climate policy, entrepreneurship, and community solutions, Alice aspires to influence policies that prioritise Indigenous knowledge and youth participation. She enjoys mentoring young girls, public speaking, and using storytelling to drive social change.
NVIRI Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with Education. Throughout his academic career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to education, leadership, and community development. His enthusiasm for teaching and empowering his peers has motivated him to pursue a career dedicated to improving Uganda’s education system, focusing on integrating modern teaching methodologies and digital tools to enrich the learning experience. Robert aspires to become a transformative educator who inspires students to engage in critical and creative thinking. He is particularly passionate about improving access to education for under-served communities and firmly believes in education’s capacity to foster social change. In addition to his academic endeavours, Robert has actively tutored children facing social and economic barriers and organised mentorship programmes for young people, thereby reinforcing his dedication to community service.
How did the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program journey start at Makerere University? The Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, shares the highlights.
Phase One of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (2013-2023)
In 2013, Makerere University entered into a transformative partnership with the Mastercard Foundation to nurture the next generation of leaders in Africa. This initiative is designed to empower young people to drive positive change in their lives, their communities, and across the continent. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program places strong emphasis on enabling young people to shape new narratives and pursue meaningful aspirations.
Through this collaboration, Makerere University has successfully implemented two phases of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. The first phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program was implemented from 2013 to 2023. Under this phase, 1,032 Mastercard Foundation Scholars were recruited and educated at Makerere University, of which 974 graduated and are contributing in various capacities within their communities.
Phase Two of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (2023-2034)
In December 2023, the partnership was renewed, and the second phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is currently being implemented at Makerere University and will run through 2034. Building on the first phase, the University is committed to fostering inclusion and ensuring equitable access in this phase. To support this goal, specific scholarship quotas have been established for the following groups:
- Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (25% of the Scholarships)
- Young People living in Refugee-Hosting Communities (5% of the Scholarships)
- Young People from Underrepresented Ethnic Groups in Uganda (5% of the Scholarships)Young People Living with Disabilities (25% of the Scholarships)
- International Students (10% of the Scholarships)
- Other Ugandan Nationals facing financial barriers to pursuing University Education (30% of the Scholarships)
What has been the individual impact of Phase One graduates of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
To date, 974 Mastercard Foundation Scholars have graduated, proudly joining the Makerere University Alumni community.
Notably, 48% of these Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni have secured formal employment, demonstrating successful integration into the workforce. Furthermore, 18% have launched their own businesses, not only creating jobs for themselves but also generating opportunities for other young people and driving local economic transformation. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Entrepreneurship Fund (SEF) supported 46 ventures by the end of 2025, proving that start-ups are indeed a crucial solution to combating youth unemployment.
In addition, 8% of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni are gaining essential work experience through internships facilitated by Transition Partners. Meanwhile, 5% are pursuing further study in Master’s, Postgraduate Diploma, and PhD programmes, reflecting their commitment to personal and professional growth.
In total, 72% of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni are actively engaged in productive employment or entrepreneurship. This data clearly shows that investing in young people generates tangible economic and social returns.
The remaining 12% are part of other young people in Uganda with university degrees who are facing challenges entering the world of work. These young people need support and systems to translate their career navigation journeys into meaningful engagements.
What has been the impact on the Communities?
Communities have greatly benefited from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars’ Give Back initiatives, including the establishment of safe water sources, the construction of classrooms, and the planting of trees for environmental protection. These efforts reflect a commitment to empowering young people, positively impacting communities, and showcasing the potential of African universities for a sustainable future. Mastercard Foundation Scholars and Alumni implement one impact project each year on the Annual Day of Service, which allows them to showcase skills in organisation, mobilisation, and teamwork. Since 2014, Mastercard Foundation Scholars have implemented various community projects, as highlighted below.
- In 2023, Achukudu Primary School in Napak District made significant strides by constructing a two-room classroom block, complete with desks and benches, enhancing the learning environment for its students.
- In 2022, St. Katherine Primary School in Agago District contributed to its community by building a two-room classroom block alongside a new pit latrine, improving facilities for both students and staff.
- In 2021, the Bulamwaki community in Iganga District saw valuable initiatives: a borehole was completed, and 56 jerrycans were donated to local women, promoting access to clean water.
- In 2020, Mastercard Foundation Scholars made a positive impact in the Kyangwali Refugee Settlement in Kikuube by providing essential COVID-19 protective materials, distributing sanitary pads, promoting tree planting, and offering career guidance to the community.
- In 2019, efforts at Salama School for the Blind in Mukono included planting trees and erecting a protective fence around the school, creating a safer and more welcoming environment for students. At Kibaale Primary School in Mityana, activities included general cleaning, tree planting, and the completion of a two-room teacher’s residence.
- In 2018, Mastercard Foundation Scholars donated learning materials, nappies, and food items, supported feeding activities and carried out general cleaning at Kampala School for children living with disabilities.in Kampala.
- In 2017, Mastercard Foundation Scholars constructed and renovated classroom blocks, dug a rubbish pit, and cleared a community well at Muzinda Primary School, and raised awareness on hygiene at Mbuya Gizaza Community in Nakawa. Additionally, they built a wooden classroom, renovated a latrine, cleaned the area, and planted trees at St. Charles Lwanga Primary School in Mukono.
- In 2015, Mastercard Foundation Scholars planted trees, undertook general cleaning, painted the buildings, and carried out electrical installations and repairs at Kireka School of Children with Special Needs in Kampala.
- In 2014, the first cohort of Mastercard Foundation Scholars dug a rubbish pit and a borehole trench, washed children’s clothes, supported feeding activities, carried out general cleaning and compound slashing, and donated foodstuffs, nappies and laundry detergents to Mercy Child Care Centre in Wakiso.
Giving back to the community has been, and continues to be, a core aspect of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which fosters a culture of giving through individual and group initiatives. As Nelson Mandela rightly puts it:
“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead”. He also championed community service, noting that “we can all do more to reach out, take care, and serve the well-being of others”.
Bernard Buteera is the Principal Communications and Public Relations Officer of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme at Makerere University.
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