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MURBS Inaugurates New Board, Shares Accomplishments

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The Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) Board of Trustees (BoT) on Friday 26th March, 2021 inaugurated two new members to replace those whose terms are set to expire on 31st March 2021. Makerere University Administrative Staff Association (MASA) representative Ms. Dorothy Nannozi Kabanda will be replaced by Ms. Franco Angida Mugyema while the National Union of Education Institutions (NUEI)’s Mr. John Peter Okello will be replaced by Mr. Joseph Ikarokok.

The two will join existing BoT Members; Dr. Godwin Kakuba (current Chairperson), Mr. Wilber Grace Naigambi (Current Secretary) and Mr. William Ndoleriire (University Council Nominee). Dr. Kakuba joined the current Board as Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA) representative in the place of Dr. John Kitayimbwa who retired from University Service. He remains eligible to serve on the incoming BoT’s term which will run from 1st April 2021 to 31st March 2025.

Welcoming the audience, Mr. Naigambi said that change in leadership of the BoT occurs every four years as mandated by Clause 7 of the MURBS Trust Deed dated 17th April 2015. He added that the handover was in line with Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority (URBRA) Act provisions of service for Trustees (not exceeding four years but subject to renewal for a maximum of two terms).

PPO Ms. Susan Khaitsa appends her signature to the Deeds as Mr. William Ndoleriire (C) and MURBS Secretary BoT-Mr. Wilber Grace Naigambi (R) witness.

He recognized the presence of the URBRA Director Legal-Mrs. Ritah Nansasi Wasswa who represented the CEO Mr. Martin Nsubuga, Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration)-Dr. Josephine Nabukenya as well as Council Members-Dr. Tumps Ireeta, Dr. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala and Mr. Jackson Byamukama. Also recognized were the Principal College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT)-Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Chair MUASA-Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi, Chair MASA-Mr. Vincent Abigaba, Chair NUEI-Mr. Bruce Twesigye, College Ambassadors as well as MURBS Service Providers. These included; Stanbic Bank, Octagon Africa, GenAfrica Asset Managers, ICEA Uganda and Arcadia Advocates.

The Chairperson BoT in his remarks thanked the audience for attending the handover ceremony, which signified their interest in MURBS’ vision to deliver “outstanding service and retirement security for members – today and tomorrow”. He thanked the outgoing BoT Members for working tirelessly and efficiently to ensure that the Scheme’s vision is realized.

“When the outgoing Board of Trustees took over in 2017, our fund value stood at UGX 140 Billion and today, it stands at over UGX 210 Billion. The outgoing Board has added almost half of the standing value of the fund and I thank our Sponsor Makerere University and all our service providers for this achievement” Dr. Kakuba commended.

Outgoing MURBS Chair Board of Trustees-Dr. Godwin Kakuba appends his signature to the Deed of Appointment

Other accomplishments attributed by the Chairperson to the outgoing BoT included:

  • Streamlined Governance: The BoT standardized 12 policy documents which have enhanced the Scheme’s operations
  • Improved Collections: Thanks to; timely contributions by the Sponsor Makerere University, clearing half of the outstanding debt owed to the scheme by the Government as well as continuing efforts to clear the balance
  • The Ambassadors Programme: Introduction of a rigorous and vibrant Ambassadors Training Programme which has enabled members to gain in-depth knowledge and skills to manage their retirement, and improved information flow between the BoT and Scheme members.
  • Consistent winning of the Financial Reporting (FiRe) Awards: MURBS has won top honours in the FiRe Awards’ Retirement Benefits Scheme (RBS) category for the last 4 consecutive years (2016, 2018, 2019 and 2020).
  • Timely Payment of Benefits: Reduced period of receiving retirement benefits upon submission of completed applications by members from 10 to 7 days
  • Investment Diversification and Consistent Return on Investment: Pursued prudent means of growing member funds, Awarded an average interest of 12% to Members over the last four years (Interest awarded never went below 10%) and diversified investments into real estate by establishing Ivory Estate Sonde.
  • Introduced Board Evaluation: Outgoing Board hired an independent professional external evaluator to appraise its performance and received an approval rating of 80%

Nevertheless, the previous Board tenure was not without its challenges. Dr. Kakuba noted that the BoT needs to do more to sensitize its members. “Members need to start planning for retirement early, and not when they get the six months to the end of their service notification from the Human Resources Directorate.

“Furthermore, Members should also ensure that their human resource records are up to date as any inconsistencies lead to delays in paying out their retirement benefits” explained Dr. Kakuba.

According to the Chairperson, going forward, the BoT will invest more in training human resource and use of Information Systems so as to continue strengthening the Scheme’s governance. The BoT will also create new products so as to increase options for retirees. MURBS already has in place an Annuity Arrangement courtesy of ICEA Uganda.

ICEA’s Mr. Emmanuel Mwaka (Fore) and Principal CEDAT-Prof. Henry Alinaitwe (Background) listen to proceedings

He also made known plans by Trustees to work with the Sponsor to expand the Scheme’s Office space beyond the current Lincoln Flats B4 premises. “And in terms of growth of benefits, currently over 48% of Scheme Members have savings above UGX 150 Million.

“We expect that over the next four years, the majority of members will have savings above UGX 150 Million and the fund value will grow to over UGX 400 Billion” concluded the Chairperson.

Preparing the audience for the official handover ceremony, the Principal Pensions Office (PPO) Ms. Susan Khaitsa thanked outgoing Trustees Mr. John Peter Okello and Ms. Dorothy Nannozi Kabanda for their dedication to the Scheme’s success during their tenure. “We thank you for your service, guidance and leadership as Trustees and as the Secretariat, we are honoured to have worked with you.”

Arcadia Advocates’ Ms. Martha Timugiibwa (R) witnesses as Mr. John Peter Okello (L) signs his Deed of Discharge from the MURBS Board of Trustees

She then introduced Ms. Martha Timugiibwa from the Scheme’s Lawyers Arcadia Advocates to preside over the handover ceremony. As part of the proceedings, outgoing Trustees signed their deeds of discharge and incoming ones signed their deeds of appointment. Incoming Trustees also had to audibly voice their willingness to serve on the new Board, a procedure that greatly amused the audience, given the expectation that contesting in itself is sufficient demonstration of readiness to serve.

According to Ms. Khaitsa, the New MURBS Board will meet next week to appoint a new Chairperson, Secretary and assign various responsibilities to Trustees.

Successfully discharged, it was a lively moment as the Ag. University Secretary-Mr. Yusuf Kiranda and URBRA’s Mrs. Ritah Nansasi Wasswa handed over plaques of recognition to the outgoing Trustees. Speaking on behalf of the duo, Mr. John Peter Okello expressed happiness that they had successfully served until their official discharge from the Board of Trustees.

Outgoing MURBS Trustees Mr. John Peter Okello (L) and Ms. Dorothy Nannozi Kabanda (R) pose with their plaques of recognition

“I thank the team we have worked with during the previous tenure and say to the incoming members, the Board of Trustees is not a bed of roses, don’t ask many questions but instead look for many answers” counseled Mr. Okello.

Speaking on behalf of the new Board of Trustees, Ms. Angida Mugyema thanked and praised God for this far He has brought the Scheme and for the grace granted to incoming Trustees to serve MURBS. She appreciated her predecessors’ efforts to lay a strong foundation based on the Scheme’ values of; Ethics, Stewardship, Transparency, Accountability and Client Focus.

The incoming Trustee equally thanked the Secretariat led by the PPO Ms. Susan Khaitsa and her team; Assistant PPO-Ms. Juliet Nabukeera, Office Administrator-Ms. Rhona Asingwire and Mr. Marvin Kakuba, for the excellent support rendered to the BoT.

Incoming Trustee and MASA Representative to MURBS-Ms. Franco Angida Mugyema makes remarks on behalf of the New Board

As a member of the first cohort launched on 27th February 2018, Ms. Angida Mugyema was all praise for the rigorous MURBS Ambassadors Programme, whose financial literacy models and other assessments helped her appreciate what is expected of a Trustee.

“If we were told to start today, we are more than ready and willing to work hard, thanks to the preparation we have received” reassured Ms. Angida Mugyema. The Ambassadors Programme serves as a succession strategy for the MURBS BoT. Any Scheme Member interested in contesting to become a MURBS Trustee must be a qualified Ambassador.

Incoming Trustee and NUEI Representative to MURBS-Mr. Joseph Ikarokok led the opening prayer. He replaced Mr. John Peter Okello on the Board.

On 1st April 2009, MURBS was established under irrevocable trusts by the Sponsor, Makerere University Council. Speaking on behalf of the Sponsor and University Management, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda said he was extremely honoured to witness a seamless transition of leadership of an entity at the level of MURBS.

“As a member of the Scheme, I am happy to wake up each and every day knowing that my retirement benefits are safe and growing as shown by not only the interest declared but also activities that successive MURBS Boards of Trustees undertake to grow our funds” remarked Mr. Kiranda.

Ag. University Secretary, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda thanked the Government for continuing to pay staff wages on time despite COVID-19

Reflecting on the previous year, the Ag. University Secretary noted that the countrywide shutdown on 20th March 2020 marked the beginning of a difficult period for Makerere University and other employers. Recalling the layoffs and salary cuts that followed with other employers, Mr. Kiranda paid tribute to the Government of Uganda for continuing to pay staff wages on time and enabling the University to recruit new staff as well as make the mandatory 10% contribution to retirement benefits despite COVID-19.

“It is now our turn as Makerere University to thank the Ugandan taxpayer by recognizing that they stood with us during the COVID-19 lockdown and it is now time for us to stand with them as their children report back to Campus to study” he remarked.

Mr. Kiranda congratulated the outgoing Trustees upon successfully completing their tenure and being celebrated by colleagues. To the incoming Trustees he cautioned that stewardship of public funds is extremely difficult as it attracts a lot of scrutiny – shortcomings are heavily criticized and accomplishments are rarely recognized. He therefore prayed that God would enable them to fulfil their obligations to MURBS and its members.

URBRA Director Legal-Mrs. Ritah Nansasi Wasswa who represented the CEO Mr. Martin Nsubuga makes the closing remarks at the Handover ceremony

Concluding the day’s remarks, Mrs. Nansasi Wasswa congratulated the outgoing Trustees upon a job well done in keeping MURBS’ light shining brightly. “MURBS is one of the model schemes that URBRA as a regulator is proud of; the fund value has grown, and the Board of Trustees has put in place structures and polices that ensure good governance.”

She equally expressed happiness that the Board of Trustees had retained three of its members, noting that this was good for the Scheme’s continuity. Taking note of the functions of a trustee as outlined in the URBRA Act, 2011, Mrs. Nansasi Wasswa commended the Board for appointing qualified and experienced service providers, who will ensure that they fulfil the legal and other requirements that come with their roles.

The URBRA representative reiterated the regulator’s commitment to support the new Board to continue stewarding and growing the scheme. She accordingly thanked the Sponsor Makerere University Council and MURBS service providers for ensuring that the scheme continues to thrive.

Members of the MURBS Ambassador Programme listen to proceedings during the handover. 2nd Row Right is Assoc. Prof. Donald Kugonza.

As is the MURBS tradition to honour God at all its gatherings, the opening and closing prayers were led by incoming Trustee, Mr. Joseph Ikarokok and MURBS College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) Ambassador, Prof. Donald Kugonza respectively. The event was moderated by Assistant PPO, Ms. Juliet Nabukeera.

Article by Public Relations Office

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Freshers’ Joining Instructions 2025/2026

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Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi makes his remarks. Inaugural comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing the pedagogical and professional competencies of its academic staff, 11th-14th December 2024, Fairway Hotel, organized by the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), facilitated by the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (CTLS), College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

To All First Year Students;

It brings me great joy to welcome you to Makerere University.

First Year students (Freshers) are by tradition given an “acclimatization” period of one week which is referred to as the “Orientation Week”. The Freshers report on Campus one week earlier than the Continuing students and during this week they are introduced to the key facilities as well as other important aspects of life at the University.

Schedule of Semesters for 2025/2026 Academic Year

Saturday 2nd August, 2025 to Friday 8th August 2025 (7 Days) – Orientation Week

Semester One
Saturday 9th August, 2025 to Saturday 6th December, 2025 (17 Weeks)

Semester Two
Saturday 17th January, 2026 to Friday 16th May, 2026 (17 Weeks)

Orientation Week

Saturday 2nd August, 2025 – Friday 8th August, 2025

During the Orientation week, arrangements are made to enable the Freshers meet and be addressed by Key Officers, Wardens and Student Leaders who welcome the students.

Arrangements are also made to enable the Freshers acquaint themselves with such key facilities at the University like the Library, University Hospital, Games and Recreation Facilities etc.

Freshers are expected to take advantage of the week to survey and acquaint themselves with the general Campus lay out. Another major activity during the Orientation Week is Registration.

All Freshers must ensure that they are registered with their respective Colleges/Schools/Departments/Halls/University Hospital.

Saturday 2nd August, 2025
Resident Freshers report to their respective halls of residence or private hostels by 5.00 p.m. It’s the responsibility of each student to make his/her own travel arrangements to the University or private hostel.

Monday 4th August, 2025
All freshers shall report to the Freedom Square for a meeting (Central orientation program) with the University officials at 9:00am.

College Orientation
Tuesday 5th – Friday 8th August, 2025 College orientation programs will follow during the orientation week. College Principals and Registrars will issue the orientation programs for their colleges.

Lectures will begin on Monday 11th August, 2025.

Registration

For a candidate to be considered a bonafide student of the University, he/she must be registered. Registration is a mandatory requirement of the University which must be done within the first two (2) weeks from the beginning of the semester by every student. Privately sponsored students will pick their original admission letters after payment of 60% tuition and all functional fees from their respective colleges.

Registration will commence on Monday 11th August, 2025 starting at 9.00 a.m. each day at the respective Schools.

Ensure that you complete all the required registration formalities within the prescribed time in order to avoid disappointments later. College/School Registrars will provide registration programs.

Registration Requirements

Admission to Makerere University is a provisional offer made on the basis of the statement of your qualifications as presented on your application form. The offer is subject to verification of your academic documents and payment of university fees.

For registration purposes, all first-year students MUST produce their original documents for verification.

Government sponsored students shall pay shs.163,154/= functional fees to Makerere University.

Privately sponsored students shall pay 839,954/= and 1,495,253/= for Ugandans and International candidates respectively for semester one and 132,250/= for semester two of year 1.

Full admission letters for government sponsored students should be picked from the respective Colleges/Schools beginning Monday 7th July 2025.

The fees structure for privately sponsored students is attached to their provisional admission letters that should be down loaded from their ACMIS portal.

Students in the affiliated Institutions should pay fees indicated by their respective Institutions.

Fresher’s joining instructions concerning reporting, fees payment, academic policies and any important information from the different university units can be viewed from the Academic Registrar’s Department notice boards and University websites www.ar.mak.ac.ug and www.mak.ac.ug respectively.

All freshers MUST have laptop computers as one of the essential tools for study purposes for their programmes.

Other Fees
a) National Council for Higher Education fee (Per Year)-Shs.20,000/= (Payable to the National Council for Higher Education Account in Stanbic Bank).
b) UNSA Subscription fee (per year)-Shs.2,000/= (payable to Stanbic Bank, City Branch, A/C 0140007248501).

Change of Programmes/ Subjects

(a) Change of Programmes
Since selection for specific programmes was made according to each candidate’s performance and order of programme choices, taking into account the available subject combinations and time-table limitations, there is normally little need to change the programme or subjects. However, some places become vacant when some of the students admitted do not take up the offers. Such places are filled through the change of programmes/subjects.

Students who wish to change programmes first of all register according to the registration time-table for the programmes and subjects (where applicable) to which originally have been admitted. Each student who may wish to change his/her programme/subject combination is required to pay an application fee of Shs.6,000/= plus the bank charges to banks used by Uganda Revenue Authority.

(b) Change of Subjects
Students in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Natural Sciences or the College of Education and External Studies may wish to change their subjects.

Students should be aware that changing one subject may result in a change of College. Before students apply to change their programmes, Colleges and Subjects, they are encouraged to seek advice on the cut-off point(s) for programmes, requirements for specific subjects and possible subject combinations.

Change of programme/Subjects will be done online on payment of an application fee of Shs. Six thousand (6000/=) plus the bank charges to banks used by Uganda Revenue Authority (URA).

Students are notified and warned that change of programme or transferring to another subject combination or College without proper authority will be liable to discontinuation from the University.

A student who has been permitted to change his/her programme or subject(s) will be issued with a letter stating so, and on receipt of such a letter that student should complete the ACCEPTANCE part and return a copy of each to the Undergraduate Admissions and Records Office, the former College/School and the new College/School.

The change of programme/subjects will be done online from Monday 4th August, 2025 to Tuesday 12th August, 2025.

N.B: It is advisable that only those students who meet the cut-off points for the desired programmes /subjects may apply.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

Mak Editor

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UVCF Makes Case for HEAC Programme

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Members of the UVCF pose for a group photo with their host, Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (4th L) after the extraordinary sitting on 23rd June 2025. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025.

An extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting at Makerere University on 23rd June 2025 has made a special appeal for the scientific evaluation of the impact of the Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme as its future hangs in a balance. The sitting was hosted by the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza and addressed by the Executive Director UVCF, Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo, Chairperson UVCF and Vice Chancellor Busitema University, Prof. Paul Waako and representative from the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE), Dr. Maria Nakachwa and a representative from the HEAC programme, Prof. David Orema.

Welcoming members of the Forum to Makerere University, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi expressed warm regards from the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe who was away on official duty. Turning to the agenda of the day, he said “I find the proposed items on the order paper quite pertinent given the time, as we offer guidance and input towards our next journey in higher education.

The Host, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (L) makes the opening remarks. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025.
The Host, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (L) makes the opening remarks.

“We believe that by the close of the day, we should be able to come up with a position paper that will inform the next course of action in this regard” remarked Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi in reference to the scheduled updates from NCHE on the HEAC Programme.

The ED UVCF, Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo in his remarks thanked Makerere University for accepting to host the extraordinary session at short notice. Commenting on the successful reconstruction of the Main Building he said, “90% of the Vice Chancellors gathered today had not been here since the conflagration so we wish to commend you on the quality of work, especially the preservation of history.” He reiterated the host Vice Chancellor’s hope that the sitting would come up with unified resolution on important issues pertaining to the Higher Education sector.

Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo makes his remarks. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025.
Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo makes his remarks.

The Chairperson, Prof. Paul Waako thanked the Africa Renewal University for the warm hospitality accorded during the 75th meeting of the UVCF and congratulated Universities upon participating in the National Science Week and Summit 2025.

“This is a very good forum for institutions to interact, share progress on innovations and catch up with how far the country is progressing in science, technology and innovation. The new addition this year was the Science Summit, which is supposed to bring together all scientists in this country and out of that we would like to generate a position paper on science, technology and innovation, which we are insisting should be discussed by Cabinet every year” Prof. Waako remarked.

The Chairperson UVCF, Prof. Paul Waako. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025.
The Chairperson UVCF, Prof. Paul Waako.

The Chairperson UVCF noted that the extraordinary meeting had been called on short notice to feed into ongoing discussions at high levels regarding the HEAC programme and the recently passed Uganda Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025. He noted that the TVET Act has big implications on Higher Education training at Diploma and Certificate level, warranting a discussion by Vice Chancellors.

Stakeholders from NCHE and the Commissioner for Higher Education and Training in the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) were invited to enrich the discussion. Equally invited were; Prof. David Orema who worked with NCHE to develop the HEAC programme and the first training programme at Busitema University, Incoming and 24th Guild President of Gulu University and HEAC beneficiary Mr. Alex Opio Ongom, a student representative from Kabale University, and the first female graduate engineer from Buyende District – also a HEAC beneficiary.

Dr. Maria Nakachwa presents on the HEAC programme. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025.
Dr. Maria Nakachwa presents on the HEAC programme.

Giving an overview of the HEAC programme, Dr. Nakachwa observed that Uganda remains a hub of Higher Education in the region and the programme acts as a good bridge for international students who need to meet entry requirements of Ugandan institutions. She also pointed to the fact that the HEAC programme acts as a remedial programme for students who sat and completed the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) but did not attain sufficient grades to enroll for Diplomas or Degree programmes.

“Looking at the recently released UNEB exams, people with one principal pass were 29,000. Where are they going? Are they going to repeat? Very few do. In 2023, 18,000 students got one principal pass. Should we deny them access to the Ugandan Higher Education?” she pondered.

Prof. David Orema makes his presentation. Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi takes UVCF Members on a guided tour of reconstructed Main Building. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025.
Prof. David Orema makes his presentation.

Dr. Nakachwa added that NCHE, which is mandated by the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act to set minimum entry requirements to any certificate, diploma or degree programme developed minimum standards for the HEAC programme in 2016, with institutions having the leeway to add two or three courses to help students cope with the rigour.

“This is well prescribed in Instrument 34 of 2008. It is a Level 4 of the Uganda Education qualifications framework because it is Post-A-Level, and the Higher Education Certificate Programme was approved by the National Council for Higher Education in 2016” elaborated Dr. Nakachwa.

She added that the HEAC is intended for four categories of students; 1) foreign students whose education system differs from Uganda’s, 2) a remedy programme for students with A-Level qualifications but not admissible for Diplomas and Bachelors, 3) holders of vocational qualifications i.e. holders of national certificates from the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) intending to pursue higher education, and 4) a bridge for the science/arts divide for students who may have passed sciences at O-Level but pursued arts at A-Level and thereafter, seek to pursue clinical or nursing programmes.

Furthermore, she noted that the change in nomenclature from the Higher Education Certificate (HEC) to the Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme was as recommended by a 2022 review, that also recommended an increase in subject content for the Biological and Physical sciences tracks of the programme. The HEAC also offers a third General track for arts. Nevertheless, students on all three tracks are required to interact with content in the three areas of; Life Skills Education, Study Skills and Academic Writing, and Foundations of Mathematics and Statistics.

Sharing results as at December 2024, Dr. Nakachwa noted that 21 out of the 56 registered Higher Education Institutions in Uganda are accredited to run the HAEC programme, with a total of 3,908 students enrolled. “We have learnt some lessons which include; having the regulatory frameworks reviewed is critical, and continuous engagement with stakeholders is paramount.”

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi takes UVCF Members on a guided tour of reconstructed Main Building. Extraordinary sitting of the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF) meeting to discuss Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2025, Senior Common Room, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on 23rd June 2025.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi takes UVCF Members on a guided tour of reconstructed Main Building.

The presentation by the National Council for Higher Education guided the discussions for the rest of the UVCF sitting, which concluded with the resolution to develop a position paper. Thereafter, the UVCF was led on guided tour of the reconstructed Main Building by the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi.

Mark Wamai

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Mastercard Foundation Board pays its inaugural visit to Makerere University

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, H.E. Ellen Johnson and Ms. Reeta Roy, pose for a photograph at the Main Building Entrance. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

On Tuesday, 17th June 2025, a distinguished delegation from the Mastercard Foundation Board visited Makerere University for the first time since the establishment of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the university. The visit underscored the progress achieved through the partnership and its positive impact on the university community, Uganda and the African continent over the past decade. The delegation was welcomed to Makerere by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, accompanied by Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, and Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director for Mastercard Foundation at Makerere University.

The high-profile delegation was led by Her Excellency President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the former President of Liberia and the first woman to hold the presidential office on the African continent. She serves on the Board alongside other members such as Mr. Zein M. Abdalla, the Board Chairperson; Ms. Jennifer Fonsted; Mr. Jim Leech; Mr. Stephen Toope; Ms. Sewit Ahderom; Ms. Baroness Valerie; Hon. Louise Arbour; Ms. Tsega Gebreyes; Mr. Jay Ireland; Mr. Michael Sabia; Ms. Carole Wamayu; Ms. Robin Washington; and Ms. Reeta Roy, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Mastercard Foundation. Additionally, the Board members were accompanied by the leadership team of the Mastercard Foundation, including Mr. Doug Kasambala, Chief Financial Officer; Ms. Ivy Mwai, Education and Skills Lead; Mr. Adrian Bukenya, Country Director for Mastercard Foundation-Uganda Programs; and Ms. Rachel Nandelenga, Head of Country Program Communications.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, welcoming H.E. Ellen Johnson, Ms. Reeta Roy and other members of Mastercard Foundation Board to Makerere University. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, welcoming H.E. Ellen Johnson, Ms. Reeta Roy and other members of Mastercard Foundation Board to Makerere University.

The Mastercard Foundation Board conducted a series of meetings with various stakeholders at Makerere University. The meetings begun with the University Leadership, which featured key figures such as Rt. Hon. Daniel Kidega, the Deputy Chairperson of the University Council and Chairperson of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Advisory Board at Makerere; Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor; Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Chairperson of the Steering Committee for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program; and Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, the University Secretary.

While addressing the delegation, Vice Chancellor Prof. Nawangwe expressed gratitude for the partnership between the Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University. He highlighted the Foundation’s impact on Africa’s higher education sector and the livelihoods of young people across the continent.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Prof. Justine Namaalwa, interacting with Members of the Board. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Prof. Justine Namaalwa, interacting with Members of the Board.

“We are privileged to host Her Excellency Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, along with other Members of the Board of Mastercard Foundation and the Foundation’s President and CEO, Ms. Reeta Roy, for the first time at Makerere University. The Mastercard Foundation has significantly impacted Uganda and Africa’s higher education sector and the livelihoods of young people, for which we are very grateful,” Prof. Nawangwe remarked.

Prof. Nawangwe also expressed appreciation to the Mastercard Foundation for its partnerships with Makerere University, which began with the Scholars Program and now encompasses additional initiatives such as the E-learning Initiative and, most recently, the Climate Resilience and Sustainability Collaborative project.

During the meeting with the Scholars Program staff, the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, had the opportunity to outline the achievements of the first 10 years (First phase) of the Scholars Program at Makerere University and shed light on the future of the second phase of the Program at Makerere University.

Rt. Hon. Dan Kidega, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Mr. Yusuf Kiranda interacting with the Board Members during their meeting with the Scholars Program staff. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Rt. Hon. Dan Kidega, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and Mr. Yusuf Kiranda interacting with the Board Members during their meeting with the Scholars Program staff.

Among the achievements highlighted by Prof. Namaalwa during the first phase were the following:

  • The Program supported 1,032 young people, of whom 76% were females and 24% were males.
  • As of January 2025, 965 Scholars had graduated, achieving an exceptional completion rate of 94%.
  • Scholar Alumni have moved on to various pursuits, including formal employment (34%), entrepreneurship (11%), and further education (3%).
  • Strengthening the Student Mentorship Engagements through capacity-building sessions for 97 university staff across the colleges, which benefits both the Scholars and other students.
  • Drafting the Makerere University Career Guidance and Mentorship Policy to streamline mentorship engagements across the university. The Policy is currently under review by the University Council.
  • As of 2024, the Scholars Entrepreneurship Fund has created 86 jobs across various communities.
  • The Scholars made a positive impact on communities through their Annual Day of Service, supporting twelve communities by constructing boreholes for clean water access in two communities and building and equipping classrooms in three communities.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, making a presentation to the Board during the meeting with Scholars Program staff. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, making a presentation to the Board during the meeting with Scholars Program staff.

Prof. Namaalwa also elaborated on the accomplishments thus far in the second phase of the Scholars Program by highlighting the following;

  • 101 Scholars recruited into the Program across different categories.
  • Prioritizing the safety of students and staff, emphasized by the well-articulated Makerere University Safeguarding Policy and its implementation activities.
  • A fully operational Disability Inclusion Support Centre.
A Board Member posing a question to Program Staff during their interaction with the team. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A Board Member posing a question to Program Staff during their interaction with the team.

On the other day’s activities, the Board also had the chance to view a mini-exhibition showcasing projects implemented by the alumni scholars. Furthermore, they engaged in a focus group discussion with both the Scholars and alumni.

On their part, the Board members expressed gratitude to Makerere University Management, led by Prof. Nawangwe, for the tremendous achievements the university had attained through the implementation of the Scholars Program and other initiatives aimed at uplifting underprivileged young people in Uganda and Africa. The Board members also expressed their appreciation to Prof. Namaalwa and the Scholars Program for the excellent job done in implementing the Scholars Program and for the continuous support provided to the Scholars and Scholar-alumni.

Ms. Reeta Roy, the President & CEO of Mastercard Foundation inspecting one of the alumni stalls during the exhibition. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Reeta Roy, the President & CEO of Mastercard Foundation inspecting one of the alumni stalls during the exhibition.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nawangwe, concluded the day by presenting each visitor with an unforgettable souvenir of Makerere, which included exquisite Makerere University coffee mugs and executive pens.

Prof. Nawangwe presenting a souvenir to H.E. Ellen Johnson at the end of her visit to Makerere University. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe presenting a souvenir to H.E. Ellen Johnson at the end of her visit to Makerere University.

Mr. Bernard Buteera is the Principal Communication and Public Relations Officer of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University

More photos from the visit

Members of the Board interacting with a cross-section of the Scholars and alumni of Mastercard Foundation during a focus group discussion. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Members of the Board interacting with a cross-section of the Scholars and alumni of Mastercard Foundation during a focus group discussion.

H.E. Ellen Johnson and other Board Members interact with a student during a visit to the Disability Support Centre. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
H.E. Ellen Johnson and other Board Members interact with a student during a visit to the Disability Support Centre.

Prof. Nawangwe, H.E. Ellen Johnson, Ms. Reeta Roy and other Board Members pose for a photograph with Scholars Program Staff. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe, H.E. Ellen Johnson, Ms. Reeta Roy and other Board Members pose for a photograph with Scholars Program Staff.

Prof. Nawangwe, H.E. Ellen Johnson, Ms. Reeta Roy, and other Board members pose in a photograph with a cross-section of Scholars and alumni of Mastercard Foundation at Makerere. Mastercard Foundation Board Inaugural visit to Makerere University led by H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, 17th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe, H.E. Ellen Johnson, Ms. Reeta Roy, and other Board members pose in a photograph with a cross-section of Scholars and alumni of Mastercard Foundation at Makerere.

Bernard Butare

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