General
Vice Chancellor urges MCF Scholars to be Responsible Leaders
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, urged Scholars of Mastercard Foundation (MCF) to strive to become responsible leaders and not leaders of riots. He said this while addressing the 53 Cohort Six Scholars during their Scholarship Award Ceremony held on 12th March 2021 in the Central Teaching Facility 2 (CTF2) Auditorium, Makerere University.
“Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University are training you to become the next generation of leaders who will champion transformative change in your communities and the African continent.” Prof. Nawangwe said.
Prof. Nawangwe pointed out that every year Makerere University loses over 1000 students who drop out due to lack of tuition and functional fees. He therefore called upon the Scholars to count themselves lucky for having received the prestigious Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, which will enable them to attain quality university education at Makerere University.
Prof. Nawangwe further pointed out that out of the two million pupils who join primary schools every year only 90,000 make it to University, of which Makerere University admits only 10,000 students. He encouraged Mastercard Foundation Scholars to stay focused on their studies and be honest when dealing with others and/or transacting any business. He further advised them to make the best of the Scholarship they received by concentrating on their studies and associating with the right people who will add value to their academic and social life.
Prof. Umar Kakumba, the Chairperson of the MCF Steering Committee highlighted that the Scholars Program was uniquely designed to provide Scholars with academic curricular that is relevant to the job market. He added that the program also provides extra support in terms of mentorship, counseling and psychosocial support services, as well as experiential learning through volunteerism, internships and social entrepreneurship; and connections to jobs and internship opportunities through its network of partners.
Prof. Kakumba thanked the MCF Selection Committee and the Secretariat of the Scholars Program for recruiting the Cohort Six Scholars amidst the COVID-19 challenges.
Dr. Muhammad Ntale, the Chairperson of the Selection Committee informed the guests that the Scholars Program had recruited 1,032 Scholars since its inception in 2014. He added that this was a remarkable achievement because they had exceeded the earlier target of recruiting 1000 students.
Dr. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Coordinator, thanked the University Management for the unwavering support they had given to the Scholars Program, which enabled the Program to operate smoothly in the University. She urged Cohort Six Scholars to make the best of the opportunity that was offered to them by Mastercard Foundation.
“I would like to urge you Cohort Six Scholars to tap into the various opportunities that the Program presents to you during your stay at the University. You will realize that unlike other University students, you are going to enjoy a number of benefits and extra skills training opportunities.” Dr. Namaalwa pointed out.
Dr. Namaalwa thanked Mastercard Foundation in championing the education of the girl child in the higher education sector. She pointed out that out of the 1,032 students so far recruited on the Program, 780 were girls, which represented 76% of the Scholarships. She called upon other organizations to emulate Mastercard Foundation in educating the young people, because it was the only way to achieve meaningful change in Uganda and the African continent.
General
NCBA Commits UGX 1.45 Billion to Makerere Marathon, Pledges Five-Year Support for Inclusive Education
By Eve Nakyanzi and Atwenda Nancy
Makerere University has officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the platinum sponsor for the 2025 Makerere University Marathon (#MakRun2025), marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable student support. The partnership was formally announced during a colourful event held at the university, attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund, and NCBA Bank Uganda CEO, Mr. Mark Muyobo.
NCBA Bank Uganda’s UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship over the next five years is the largest corporate contribution to the Makerere Marathon to date. It underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting quality education, community development, and equity. Mr. Muyobo said that, “We are driven by the desire to leave every community better than we found it”. He added that the goal is to empower disadvantaged students to live without limitations, describing this initiative as a bold stride toward establishing a world-class international marathon.
“This is more than just a sponsorship, it is a strategic partnership built on shared values,” Dr. Kigozi remarked. “With this support, we are positioned to establish a fully equipped Disability Support Unit and a sustainable pool of funds to assist economically disadvantaged students.”
The marathon, slated under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future,” seeks to unify students, alumni, corporate entities, and professional athletes in pursuit of a common cause. At its core, the MakRun2025 promotes active lifestyles, social inclusion, and a sense of communal responsibility.
“It’s not just a race,” Prof. Nawangwe emphasized. “It is a movement to break barriers, change lives, and build a resilient, inclusive university.”
The marathon’s broader impact includes fundraising for students living with disabilities and those facing financial hardship, contributing directly to the university’s Endowment Fund.
A major highlight of the event is the introduction of a full 42.2-kilometer marathon—bringing international standards to the annual run. Organizers have promised a professional, accredited experience with traffic-free routes and ample support for runners.
“This edition will elevate the MakRun into a world-class event,” said Mr. Muyobo. “We are proud to support Makerere University in realizing its dream of a globally recognized marathon that reflects Uganda’s commitment to education and inclusivity.”
Beyond the race itself, the event will feature a vibrant line-up of activities, including music, drama, and games for all age groups. It is designed to foster a festival-like atmosphere that welcomes every member of the community.
Organizers and university leaders have extended an open invitation to students, staff, alumni, corporate partners, and Kampala residents to participate, cheer, or donate to the cause.
“Every step taken is a step towards hope for a student,” Dr. Kigozi stated. “Together, we are building a Makerere that cares, includes, and uplifts.”
The partnership is expected to significantly enhance the university’s ability to support underprivileged students and improve campus infrastructure for students with disabilities. It also sets the tone for future collaborations that align with the values of compassion, excellence, and innovation. The fifth edition of the MakRun is scheduled to take place on August 17th, 2025.
The Writers are Interns in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University
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