General
Mak to double scholarships for female students
Makerere University Female Scholarship Foundation (FSF) is set to double scholarships for female students from 20 to 40 slots with a comprehensive package. This was revealed by the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. William Bazeyo during the FSF Resource Mobilisation Dinner which took place on 6th December 2019 at Kampala Serena Hotel, Victoria Hall.
“Starting next academic year, Makerere University will provide 40 scholarships to bright female students from socio-economically dis-advantaged backgrounds. The University has been providing 20 scholarships tagged to only tuition. Makerere University will double the scholarship slots, and also cater for both tuition and functional fees for the successful applicants. This offer will run for a period of five (5) years,” said Prof. William Bazeyo while representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.
In line with the theme of the Resource Mobilisation Drive, "Drop a coin and forever change a life," the Guest of Honour, the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni contributed UGX 20 million while UGX 63million was raised in cash and pledges from individuals during the dinner.
Prior to the Friday Dinner, the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) with support from FSF Alumni who felt the need to give back to Makerere University for giving them an opportunity to acquire university education had raised UGX 30 million.
The ongoing FSF Resource Mobilisation Drive targets raising 15 billion shillings to enable 500 bright female students, but from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds to access education at Makerere University in the next ten (10) years. The FSF Resource Mobilisation Dinner is one of the platforms highlighted in the robust fundraising strategy being implemented by Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate.
In a speech read by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Jacob Oulanyah, the Minister of Education and Sports applauded Makerere University and individuals of good will for contributing generously to the Makerere University Female Scholarship Foundation aimed at empowering the girl-child through access to university education.
“Education is globally recognized as one of the factors of development therefore, Makerere University through the Female Scholarship Foundation contributes to the development of Uganda since women and girls sustain the productivity of a nation” said Hon. Kataaha Museveni.
She recognized the efforts of the Government of Uganda through programmes such as the Universal Primary Education (UPE), Universal Secondary Education (USE) and Skilling Uganda aimed at increasing access to education and ensuring that the girl child attains quality education.
In total support of this noble cause, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Oulanyah rallied Ugandans to always help other people to live their potential. Leading by example, Rt. Hon. Oulanyah, a proud alumnus of Makerere University pledged UGX 10 million. “I was in Makerere University many years back. Makerere University made me. It shaped me. I call upon you, to always remember that in every situation we must build for the future. We must adapt the virus of Helping Other People Live their Potential-the HPLP virus,” he remarked.
Makerere University Female Scholarship Foundation (FSF) was born out of the Female Scholarship Initiative (FSI) established at Makerere University in 2001 with support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York and later in 2005 by the Government of Sweden through SIDA. The goal of FSF is to support bright female students from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds to access university education thus contributing to the increased female enrollment at the University.
According to the Director, Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine, the Female Scholarship Foundation (FSF) has enabled 1,160 Ugandan women to obtain University Education at Makerere. She noted that the Resource Mobilisation dinner is one of the ways of renewing Makerere University and stakeholders’ efforts to sustain the Scholarships through mobilizing resources nationally and internationally.
“Helping others, especially those less disadvantaged than us is one of the key virtues that defines us as human beings. We appreciate all the various partners who have supported us since 2001 and we appeal to you to donate generously for the cause of empowerment of women though university education. We pledge our commitment to utilize whichever resources we will generate and those generated for the purpose for which they have been mobilized and we shall do it with integrity and transparency,” said Dr. Baine.
She appreciated other partners such as; The Carnegie Corporation of New York, MS JD Global Education Fund, DFCU Bank, Joshua Mugyenyi Foundation, The Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Uganda and individuals of good will for their support towards the Foundation.
Dr. Jessica Norah Aguti, Chairperson of the GMD Scholarship Selection Committee commended the Guest of Honor, University Management, alumni and well-wishers for honoring the invitation to the FSF Resource Mobilisation Dinner. "With your presence, you have demonstrated that you support Makerere University's strides to support young women to access university education."
Speaking at the same function, Ms. Agnes Baluka, on behalf of the 1,160 female students who have been supported so far through the Female Scholarship Initiative (FSI) and Female Scholarship Foundation (FSF), applauded Makerere University, development partners and individuals for giving them a worthwhile gift in the form of University education that has transformed their lives and the lives of other people.
The overjoyed Ms Baluka shared that after her graduation, she embarked on a career journey in the academia that enabled her to educate her siblings, educate other female students who were struggling with fees at the Secondary and University levels as well active participation in community programmes.
Watching the FSF Video, the audience was amazed by the testimonies from some of the Scholarship beneficiaries who after their graduation have positively contributed to the transformation of communities and the well being of other people.
Important Message: To support this noble cause, please effect payment to: Account Name-Makerere University Female Scholarship Foundation, Account No. 01083501009628 , Bank-DFCU Bank, Makerere University Branch.
Article by: Ritah Namisango and Esther Joy Nakibombo, Mak Public Relations Office.
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General
From Campus to Career: Makerere Advancement Office, 91st Guild and the DFCU Foundation Equip Students with Financial and Employability Skills
On 4th December, 2025, over 200 final-year students gathered at the School of Pharmacy Auditorium for the highly engaging Career & Financial Literacy Symposium, hosted by the 91st Students’ Guild, in partnership with the Makerere Advancement Office and the DFCU Foundation.
The symposium centred on student advancement through strategic partnership, convening students, administrators and development partners for a practical conversation on career readiness, financial literacy, employability, and personal development.
Advancement Through Partnerships
Speaking on behalf of the Makerere Advancement Office, Mr Awel Uwihanganye, Chief Advancement Officer, underscored the importance of partnerships such as the one with DFCU Foundation. He highlighted their importance in equipping students with marketplace skills and opportunities vital for individual growth after University.
He reflected on the university journey as a formative period for ideas, innovation, and lifelong relationships, noting that:
“University is where impressions are made, and future networks are born. The friendships, character, and collaborations you develop here become foundations for careers, enterprises and leadership later in life.”
Mr. Uwihanganye encouraged students to embrace entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation, arguing that the emerging workforce is driven by technology, multi-tasking ability and idea generation rather than traditional single-path employment. He challenged students to build businesses, use digital platforms productively, and regard employment as only one income stream, not the only one.
The Student Perspective — Discipline, Skills and Trust
Speaking on student growth and personal development, Dr. Rodney Rugyema, Deputy Dean of Students, highlighted the realities facing new graduates, especially those entering the job market for the first time. With humour and honesty, he urged students to approach growth intentionally and responsibly.
He called for delayed gratification, financial discipline and long-term decision-making, reminding students that wealth is built, not wished for. He emphasised the importance of skills beyond academic papers, stating that students must be equipped to create value, adapt, learn continuously, and gain competence relevant to modern work demands.
Dr. Rugyema underscored that trust, integrity and reliability remain the most non-negotiable pillars of professional advancement.
“Let people trust you enough to lend you an opportunity. Be a person who delivers. Your reputation is currency; it travels to rooms you are not in.” He noted
Financial Literacy for the Next Generation
The keynote training session was delivered by Mr. Simon Omara, Business Advisor representing the DFCU Foundation, who walked students through a highly practical presentation on financial planning, savings culture, credit management, record-keeping, career positioning and entrepreneurship.
With more than 10,000 graduates annually and less than 35% securing employment within the first year, Mr. Omara challenged students to practice financial and career ownership early. His presentation explored:
Key Competencies Students Must Build
- Financial management with a focus on budgeting, saving, and investing early
- Career readiness, CV development, interview skills, and personal branding
- Entrepreneurship and income diversification
- Record keeping and credit management
- Professional conduct and workplace preparation
He reminded students that the future belongs to those who are financially literate, skilled, trusted and entrepreneurial. Through relatable examples and actionable frameworks such as the 70–20–10 rule, the 7-second CV scan, and the 90-day post-graduation growth plan, Mr. Omara equipped participants with practical knowledge they could act upon immediately.
Why This Symposium Matters
This event stands as a testament to the power of partnership-driven student advancement, a core mandate of the Makerere Advancement Office. By convening industry partners like DFCU Foundation, the University continues to ensure that students graduate not only with knowledge, but with tools and readiness for opportunity.
The symposium strengthened linkages between academia and the labour market, expanded students’ perspective on financial independence, and emphasised the value of entrepreneurship, networks and character in shaping future leadership
The Makerere Advancement Office remains committed to facilitating opportunities that empower students to thrive beyond the gates of the University, through partnerships, mentorship, capacity-building, and exposure to real-world skillsets.
“ A degree alone is no longer enough. With partnership, preparation and purpose, our students can build futures anchored in knowledge, opportunity and resilience.” Mr Awel Uwihanganye noted during his remarks.
Caroline Kainomugisha is the Communications Officer, Makerere Advancement Office
Makerere University on 3rd December, 2025 hosted the Tumusiime Mutebile Annual Lecture, a tradition established to honour the life and legacy of the late Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile, an outstanding alumnus and former Governor of the Bank of Uganda who passed away in 2022. The lecture not only reflects on his remarkable contribution to Uganda’s economic leadership, but also highlights how innovation, resilience, and intergenerational vision can shape Africa’s future.
This year’s edition was anchored on three key pillars—intergenerational leadership, economic resilience, and the power of innovation—themes that defined Prof. Mutebile’s career and continue to influence national development. Through this annual series, the University upholds his memory while also celebrating other African leaders whose work has left a lasting mark on the continent, using their legacies to inspire thoughtful dialogue, policy reflection, and the next generation of transformative thinkers.
Celebrating an Enduring Legacy
In her remarks, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sarah Ssali, reflected on Prof. Mutebile’s lifelong commitment to excellence, integrity, and the transformative power of education. She highlighted his journey from a student leader at Makerere to one of the country’s most influential economic thinkers, noting how his leadership in monetary policy, fiscal reform, and economic stabilization reshaped Uganda’s economic trajectory.
Prof. Ssali emphasized that this public lecture series not only honours Mutebile’s legacy but also bridges academia and practice—challenging students, scholars, and national leaders to pursue knowledge that serves the public good. She expressed gratitude to the Bank of Uganda under Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego, dfcu Bank, the GRO Foundation, the Mutebile family, and the Advancement Office for their continued support in sustaining a platform that nurtures economic thought leadership and inspires future generations.
Rt. Hon. Emeritus Amama Mbabazi, a lifelong friend and contemporary of the late Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile, delivered a deeply personal reflection during the lecture. He recalled their shared beginnings as young student leaders at Makerere, their early political activism, and the historical moments that shaped both their lives and the nation. Speaking as both confidant and colleague, he emphasized Mutebile’s disciplined approach to economic policy, his unwavering belief in strong, accountable institutions, and his commitment to evidence-based, long-term decision making. Mbabazi outlined three pillars of Mutebile’s legacy—policy integrity, institutional strength, and leadership that prepares the next generation—values he affirmed are central to the work of the Tumusiime Foundation, which he now chairs.
He underscored the critical role of the private sector in Africa’s transformation, stressing the need for productivity-driven economies, skilled young people, and policy ecosystems that encourage innovation. He further called for intergenerational leadership that deliberately transfers knowledge, builds enduring institutions, and creates real opportunities for young Africans to lead. In closing, he urged academia, policymakers, and industry to work in partnership, noting that Africa’s progress depends on disciplined leadership, investment in human capital, and a shared commitment to building a future stronger than the present.
Fiscal Policies that have stood the test of time
The Governor of the Bank of Uganda, Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego, honored the late Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile with a heartfelt tribute, praising him as “a great tree whose roots ran deep beneath the soil of this nation, nourishing all who followed.” He noted that Uganda continues to benefit from the “shade” of the policies Mutebile planted during his 21-year tenure—policies that stabilized the economy, strengthened institutions, and protected the financial system through multiple crises. He highlighted Mutebile’s role in restoring price stability through cash budgeting, bringing inflation down from triple digits to single digits, guiding the country through the 2008 global financial crisis with disciplined monetary policy, and maintaining public trust during the 2011 inflation spike through clear and transparent communication.
Dr. Atingi-Ego also credited him for steering Uganda safely through the COVID-19 pandemic by introducing liquidity support for banks, credit relief for borrowers, and targeted foreign exchange interventions. Reflecting on Mutebile’s long-term impact, the Governor remarked, “These are the ideas he planted—he never lived to enjoy the shade of the tree, but today, the country rests under it.” He further celebrated Mutebile’s commitment to innovation, citing the 2016 amendments to the Financial Institutions Act that unlocked agency banking, bancassurance, and Islamic banking—reforms that today anchor Uganda’s impressive financial inclusion gains.
Intergenerational Leadership blends agility and emotional intelligence
Eng. Dr. F. F. Tusubira delivered a compelling and deeply reflective keynote, grounding the theme “Intergenerational Leadership, Economic Resilience and the Power of Innovation” in both history and lived institutional experience. He expressed serious concern that although Africa is the world’s youngest continent—with over 65% of its population below 35—its systems continue to sideline young people from leadership and national decision-making, even as they are repeatedly called “leaders of tomorrow.” He argued that this generational exclusion is not merely unfair but dangerous, warning that nations cannot secure economic resilience while locking out the very demographic best equipped to navigate a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world.
Drawing on African proverbs, global case studies, and personal anecdotes from Makerere and national institutions, he demonstrated how younger generations bring idealism, agility, innovation, and risk-taking—qualities essential for competitiveness—while older generations contribute emotional intelligence, institutional memory and a heightened sense of danger. He emphasized that progress requires blending these strengths through deliberate structures: fair representation of youth in boards and executive spaces, shared decision-making, reverse mentorship, and an institutional culture that values every generational perspective.
Dr. Tusubira also highlighted the urgent need for education reform, criticizing the continent’s entrenched “learning to pass exams” culture and calling for systems that cultivate creativity, problem-solving, and technical capability. He cautioned that without investing in human capital, digital literacy, and inclusive innovation ecosystems, Africa risks losing the very foundation of future competitiveness. His message was clear and powerful: intergenerational leadership is not optional—it is a survival strategy for institutions, businesses, and nations, especially in an era where, as he quoted, “it is not the strongest who survive, but those most responsive to change.”
The lecture was further enriched by an engaging panel discussion, which was moderated by Prof. Edward Bbaale, the Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences. He opened the discussion by deliberately centering today’s students and emerging leaders, framing the session as an intellectual reflection on the life, values and legacy of the late Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile. He positioned the lecture’s theme — Shaping Africa’s Future: Intergenerational Leadership, Economic Resilience and the Power of Innovation — as urgent and practical, and introduced a cross-disciplinary panel whose expertise mirrors that urgency: Eng. Dr. F. F. Tusubira, Mr. Charles Mudiwa the Managing Director Dfcu Bank, and Prof. Faisal Buyinza the Ag. Dean, School of Economics.
Prof. Bbaale’s moderation enabled panelists to offer guidance on structural and cultural barriers to youth inclusion, the role of institutions in building resilience, and how academia, industry and policy can work together to turn innovation into jobs and scalable solutions — all the while reserving time for direct audience engagement and practical policy takeaways. Collectively, the panelists urged dismantling age-biased barriers and credential rigidities, creating new entry points and “tables” for youth leadership, scaling finance and training for startups and agribusiness, reforming pedagogy to prioritise skills and creativity, and deepening public-private-academic partnerships so innovation becomes inclusive growth rather than isolated experimentation.
The Family’s heartfelt appreciation
Mrs. Betty Tumusiime-Mutebile delivered heartfelt closing remarks, offering gratitude on behalf of the family and the Tumusiime-Mutebile Foundation. Speaking with deep emotion, she reflected on the late Professor’s character—his honesty, humility, hard work, and unwavering commitment to service above self. She thanked Makerere University, the Bank of Uganda, the Foundation’s leadership, and the many friends and colleagues who have continued to uphold his legacy, noting that although nearly four years have passed since his departure, his memory remains vivid and powerful for the family.
She recalled his devotion to both his public duty and his home, sharing personal stories of his leadership within the family and his steadfast faith that shaped their daily lives. Mrs. Tumusiime-Mutebile also highlighted the Foundation’s ongoing work in youth skilling, ethical governance, and private-sector development—initiatives rooted in his own vision. She concluded by inviting continued partnership to sustain the legacy he built, and led the gathering in singing his favourite chorus, a tender tribute to a man whose influence, she said, endures through the lives he touched.
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