Connect with us

General

MURBS Declares 10.01% Interest Rate Ahead of 10th AGM

Published

on

The Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) has at a meeting held on Tuesday 20th October, 2020 declared an interest rate of 10.01% on its members’ opening balances as at 1st July 2019. The meeting held in the Conference Room, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) was aimed at presenting MURBS’ performance for the Financial Year 2019/2020 to the Makerere University Council, Management and other stakeholders ahead of the 10th Annual General Meeting (AGM) due to be held virtually on 22nd October 2020.

Welcoming all parties, the Secretary – Board of Trustees (BoT), MURBS, Mr. Wilber Grace Naigambi thanked the Chairperson Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, represented by Dr. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Members of Management, Chairpersons of Staff Associations and service providers present for sparing time to attend the meeting.

He also introduced the new Chairperson – BoT, MURBS, Dr. Godwin Kakuba, elected to replace Rev. Dr. John Kitayimbwa who resigned from University service. Other members of the BoT present at the meeting were Ms. Dorothy Nannozi Kabanda, Mr. John Peter Okello, Mr. William Ndoleriire and co-opted Board Member; CPA David Ssenoga.

Dr. Godwin Kakuba in delivering his statement expressed the BoT’s sympathy to the University Council, Management and community upon the gutting of the iconic Main Building by fire on 20th September 2020. “We pray that God may give you wisdom on how to handle all the challenges that have come out of this tragedy.”

He stated that MURBS had a total membership of 3,777 as at 30th June 2020, of which 2,062 were active. He added that the scheme received contributions worth UGX 21Billion from Makerere University during financial year 2019/2020 and paid out benefits worth UGX 7Billion to retiring staff in the same period.

The Chairperson allayed his audience’s fears on what effects the COVID-19 pandemic might have had on the scheme’s performance when he announced that the MURBS fund value grew by UGX 31Billion from UGX 178Billion as at 30th June 2018 to UGX 209Billion as at 30th June 2020. This he partly attributed to the BoT’s decision to divest from the equity asset class and strategically invest in the property asset class.

“This decision shielded the part of our portfolio held in land from the volatile behaviour of the equity markets during these uncertain times” explained Dr. Kakuba. He went on to state, ”As such, the net return on investments undertaken by the Scheme this year was UGX 22.3Billion compared with UGX 11.1Billion last year. It is this return that is being distributed to members in form of interest this year.”

Dr. Kakuba also shared that MURBS emerged winner in the Retirement Benefits Sector category of the Financial Reporting (FiRe) Award Competitions 2019 after beating 20 other schemes. MURBS also took the FiRE Award for Most Improved Reporting. “MURBS has now emerged winner in the Retirement Benefits category for three consecutive years.”

The Chairperson Council in her remarks read verbatim by Dr. Nambalirwa Nkabala congratulated MURBS upon declaring a competitive interest rate of 10.01% and commended the Government of Uganda for liberalizing the pension sector that has enabled various schemes to flourish. She congratulated MURBS upon wining two FiRe awards in the November 2019 competition and commended the University Management for providing an environment that is conducive for the scheme to thrive and offer a decent retirement for University employees.

“On its part, Council has provided a home for MURBS on the University Campus free of charge. Council also continues to engage Government not only on enhancing staff salaries, which increases the monthly contributions to MURBS, but also on the payment of the only outstanding debt” read the Chair Council’s remarks.

The Chairperson Council’s remarks in conclusion urged the BoT to exercise even more caution and wisdom as they make investment decisions, especially now that the fund value is now more than UGX 200Billion. “Keep in mind that the wellbeing of the university employees in retirement, and consequently the smooth running of Makerere University, to some extent, depends on what is happening in the Scheme.”

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor commended the Trustees upon working hard to reduce the number of members with retirement packages below UGX 50Million from 1,308 as at 30th June 2017 to 768 as at 30th June 2020. In the same period, the number of members with retirement packages between UGX 150 Million and 200Million grew from only two to 425.

“This is remarkable! This shows that Makerere University is among the best employers in Uganda and we thank the Government of Uganda for prioritizing the remuneration of University staff” he enthused.

Prof. Nawangwe thanked the University Council for its decision to run an independent Retirement Benefits Scheme for university employees, noting that this has enabled members’ benefits to grow at rates above inflation over past financial years. MURBS has over the last two financial years declared interest rates of 10.6% and 17% for 2018/2019 and 2017/2018 respectively.

The Vice Chancellor concluded his remarks by stating that Makerere as the premier University in Africa owes it to Uganda to make best use of all resources allocated by the Government. “The Government continues to handle many challenges including providing quality higher education to a growing number of young people in Uganda. We are doing our best to support Government in this respect and are committed to ensuring that Makerere University plays a strategic role in solving this challenge, especially at graduate level.”

The meeting was also addressed by Mr. Ssenyonga Cosmas-Senior Supervision Officer who represented the Chief Executive Officer, Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority (URBRA)-Mr. Martin A. Nsubuga. He thanked the Sponsor-Makerere University for remitting employee contributions to MURBS on time and the Trustees for providing accountability for the work done over the past financial years.

“Our regulator’s report clearly indicated that Makerere University is one of the biggest schemes in Uganda and when you look at the indicators such as efficiency and profitability compared to peers in the sector, they have been improving over time and we commend the Board of Trustees” added Mr. Ssenyonga.

He said that schemes in the sector have been able to improve in terms of governance, prudent investment and administration thanks largely to URBRA’s ability to enforce standards. “The sector assets have increased from UGX 5Trillion in 2013 to 15.2Trillion as at the end of the last financial year.”

The URBRA official noted that the sector’s current assets are based on contributions from approximately two million employees. “If we had most of the working population contributing towards their retirement, we would probably be talking about UGX 30Trillion today.”

Citing the MURBS example where over 80% of assets are invested in Government securities, Mr. Ssenyonga observed that retirement benefits schemes are capable of accumulating domestic resources that can be used by the Government to finance various development projects. He added that sector has over the last five years achieved an average increase in assets of 20.6% per annum, which has enabled it to earn an average interest of 9% and accord members an average interest of 9.6%. All MURBS declarations at the meeting were above the regulator’s averages.

As is now the MURBS tradition, the meeting was moderated by the Secretary – Board of Trustees (BoT), MURBS, Mr. Wilber Grace Naigambi assisted by a member of Administrative staff, in this case, Principal Public Relations Officer, Ms. Ritah Namisango.

Article by Public Relations Office

Mark Wamai

General

Makerere University Council and Top Management Convene Strategic Planning Retreat

Published

on

Members of the University Council together with Management in a group photo at consultative meeting towards the formulation of the University’s Strategic Plan 2025/2026–2029/2030.

The Makerere University Council and Top Management have today convened at Speke Resort Munyonyo to deliberate on the University’s Strategic Plan 2025/2026 – 2029/2030. The retreat seeks to align Makerere’s priorities with the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) and ensure that all key stakeholders contribute to shaping the institution’s next five years.

Opening the discussions, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, underscored the centrality of planning in the University’s growth trajectory. He called on members of management to actively participate in the drafting of the new strategic plan. Prof. Nawangwe highlighted Makerere’s progress in recent years, noting that the University has drawn a roadmap to becoming a research-led institution, with publications rising from 700 five years ago to 2,000 currently.

He further pointed out the revision of research policies to align with the University’s research agenda, as well as the establishment of innovation hubs that support product development, commercialisation, and intellectual property management. Commending staff for their resilience and success, Prof. Nawangwe congratulated them on winning significant individual grants, some of which now surpass institutional grants. “NDP IV is intended to grow the country tenfold, and I am confident Makerere will make a huge contribution,” he remarked.

Mrs. Lorna Magara

In her keynote remarks, the Chairperson of the University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, described the retreat as a defining moment for Makerere’s role in Uganda’s transformation. She urged the University to move beyond traditional teaching and research, positioning itself as a central driver of national development.

“Our mandate extends beyond academia. The knowledge we generate, the leaders we shape, and the innovations we deliver must directly fuel Uganda’s growth,” Mrs. Magara stated.

She outlined priority national development areas— agro-industrialisation, tourism, mineral-based development, and advances in science and technology—where Makerere’s expertise can make a decisive impact. Emphasising the urgency of challenges such as youth unemployment, climate change, food insecurity, and fragile health systems, she noted that within these lie opportunities for Makerere to lead in testing and scaling solutions.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

“This retreat is about discipline and focus. Our strategy cannot be a wish list; it must be a blueprint for measurable national impact,” she said, challenging participants to critically reflect on how Makerere can anchor Uganda’s food security, nurture digital innovators, strengthen health resilience, and raise transformative leaders.

She concluded with a call for boldness and clarity in execution: “The next five years are decisive. Makerere must shift from being a participant in national development to being its strongest driver. What we agree here must position Makerere not only as Uganda’s premier university but also as a trusted national partner and a beacon of Africa’s transformation.”

Participants in a group discussion

The retreat involved detailed discussions and contributions from University leaders, aimed at developing a practical and impact-driven strategic plan that cements Makerere’s role in advancing Uganda’s development agenda.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

Continue Reading

Education

Makerere University signs Memorandum of Understanding with International Rescue Committee to Advance Research, Innovation and Partnerships

Published

on

Prof. Anthony Mugagga (Left), Principal of MakCEES exchanging the MoU with Mr. Elijah Okuyo, Country Director, IRC

Makerere University has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Rescue Committee to formalize undertakings in research, innovation & partnerships.

Signed in September 2025 by the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the Country Director, International Rescue Committee,  Mr. Elijah Okeyo, the MoU provides a framework to implement research intensive programmes, promote innovative teaching and learning, internationalization, and contribute to societal transformation.

According to Mr. Okeyo, the MoU re-affirms Makerere University as the academic partner of the International Rescue Committee (IRC). “This MoU formalizes IRC’s working relationship with Makerere University. This framework empowers both institutions to tap into opportunities together. We believe in equal partnership. Makerere University commits to being our partner in research to contribute to evidence based humanitarian undertakings,” he said.

Under this collaboration, Makerere University and IRC will work on developing child-centered learning resources, innovative curricula, and policy-relevant research to enhance the quality of education in crisis-affected regions.

At Makerere University, the MoU brings on board, the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Research Centre.

To concretize the MoU, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga convened a partnership meeting on Friday 12th September 2025  involving a delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Dr. David Kabugo, the Deputy Director of Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER),  and Ms. Ritah Namisango, the Principal Communication Officer.

Mak CEES and IRC partnership meeting in progress

The delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) consisted of the following: Mr. Elijah Okeyo-Country Director, Mr. Vincent Wanyama-Senior Program Development and Quality Coordinator,  Mr. Richard Omasete-Policy and Advocacy PlayMatters, and Ms. Janet Nambuya-Grants and Partnerships Coordinator.

The MoU focuses on the following areas of interest: Early Childhood Development, joint research and capacity building in education, the plight of refugees and the host communities, humanitarian aid, as well as, evidence based research to inform the education policy.

In line with its mandate, IRC brings onboard, its unmatched expertise in helping children in crisis-affected areas. The MoU therefore positions both institutions to undertake a leading role in the protection of children and families through evidence based research, access to education, and humanitarian undertakings.

Dr. Kabugo, the Deputy Director MITER, noted that the MoU opens new opportunities for joint efforts in research, training, and policy. He said: “We are committed to co-designing practitioner research, engaging in professional development, and generating evidence to guide the education policy in Uganda and beyond.” Dr. Kabugo explained that this partnership builds on years of cooperation between CEES and IRC, especially in child-centered methods such as play-based learning.

Prof. Mugagga described the MOU as a practical framework that connects Makerere University’s research with IRC’s field experiences. He stated that the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) conducts programmes focused on the future of the young people through training and empowering students/teachers. He articulated that the College significantly impacts on the education sector through delivery of quality academic programmes and research under the School of Education, School of  Distance and Lifelong Learning, and the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development.

“Our strongest synergy is education and early child-focused care,” Prof. Mugagga emphasized. He revealed that the collaboration presents CEES with a strong and reliable partner (IRC), which stands for protection and the well-being of children and families. “Through this MoU, both CEES and IRC, will significantly contribute to improving education for children, families, and communities impacted by conflict and crisis.”

Prof. Mugagga commended IRC for the earlier support and expertise extended to the College in the development of the early childhood centre, and working together to provide valuable input during the Ministry of Education and Sports’ consultative process that led to the Early Childhood development policy.

Reflecting on the increasing number of refugees enrolling for studies at Makerere University, Prof. Mugagga  said: “ IRC has come at the right time. The College will tap into the IRC expertise to teach our staff and learners components in refugee education. They will equip our students and teachers with knowledge and skills in refugee education. Some of our students will cooperate with IRC to undertake research in refugee settlement and host communities.”

[L-R] Dr. David Kabugo, Deputy Director (MITER), Mr. Vincent Wanyama (IRC), Prof. Anthony Mugagga (Principal, MakCEES), Mr. Elijah Okeyo( Country Director-IRC), Ms. Janet Nambuya (IRC), Mr. Richard Omasette (IRC) and Ms. Ritah Namisango, PCO (MakCEES)

Prof. Mugagga implored both MITER and IRC to undertake research and develop modules on refugee education, parenting, re-tooling street children, integration of a health component into the curriculum, and management of truamatised students/learners who come from areas affected by war, conflict and crisis.

On the issue of play materials, Prof. Mugagga stressed that already made play materials derial creativing. “Both CEES and IRC should work towards a context that empowers children and learners to ignite their creative potential by developing home-made play materials,” he submitted.

About IRC

Stating a brief profile history about IRC, Mr. Okeyo explained that IRC is a global non-profit organisation that provides humanitarian aid and assistance to people affected by conflict and disaster. IRC has been active in Uganda since 1998, originally assisting displaced populations in Northern Uganda and later expanding its efforts to refugee settlements and urban areas.. Currently, IRC operates more than 35 health facilities in refugee settlements and runs a variety of programs in health, education, protection, and economic recovery. IRC also undertakes projects focusing on early childhood development, prevention of gender-based violence, and protection of refugees and families.

Ritah Namisango
Ritah Namisango

Continue Reading

General

Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University encouraged to participate in philanthropy work

Published

on

Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala addressing the gathering on behalf of DVC F&A, Prof. Ireeta. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

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.

A cross-section of scholar-alumni, listening attentively during the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A cross-section of scholar-alumni, listening attentively during the event.

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.

Mr. John Osuna, speaking on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, at the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. John Osuna, speaking on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, at the event.

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.

A cross-section of the alumni making their pledges towards the scholars give back project. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A cross-section of the alumni making their pledges towards the scholars give back project.

“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.

Ms. Agnes Katumba, the Director, Katumba Estates Ltd handing over part of her pledge towards the Scholars Giveback project. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Agnes Katumba, the Director, Katumba Estates Ltd handing over part of her pledge towards the Scholars Giveback project.

“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.

The Representative from DFCU making the pledge to support Scholars Giveback project on behalf of the Bank. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Representative from DFCU making the pledge to support Scholars Giveback project on behalf of the Bank.

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.

Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Scholar-alumna addressing fellow Scholars and alumni at the event. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Scholar-alumna addressing fellow Scholars and alumni at the event.

“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.

Some of the Scholars praying for their raffle draw tickets to win. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the Scholars praying for their raffle draw tickets to win.

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.

The winner of the grand draw walked away with a flat screen TV. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Community Open Day, September 6, 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The winner of the grand draw walked away with a flat screen TV.

Carol Kasujja and Bernard Buteera form the communications team for the Scholars Programme at Makerere University.

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

Trending