Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, President African Development Bank Group (AfDB) signs the Visitors' Book during the meeting with the Chairperson Council and Management on Day 5 of the 71st Graduation Ceremony, 21st May 2021, CTF1.
The President of African Development Bank Group (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina has reassured Makerere of his institution’s support in implementing the University’s 10 year strategic plan (2020-2030) that seeks to make it research-led. Dr. Adesina made the remarks at a meeting with the Chairperson of Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara and University Management on Friday 21st May 2021 ahead of the fifth session of the 71st Graduation Ceremony where he received the Honorary Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa) of Makerere University.
In his welcome remarks to the AfDB President and his delegation, which included Equity Bank CEO, James Mwangi, Prof. Nawangwe congratulated Dr. Adesina upon his Honorary Doctorate Award in recognition of his exemplary service to the people of Africa in various capacities.
“Makerere University has also benefited from your visionary leadership in the various positions you have held in different organisations. The building where we are seated is one of the new facilities and labs constructed with the loan from the AfDB to support higher education institutions” remarked Prof. Nawangwe. The meeting was held in the Central Teaching Facility 1 (CTF1) Rotary Peace Centre Boardroom.
Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina (L) being received by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (R) and Dr. Umar Kakumba (2nd Row R) into Central Teaching Facility 1 (CTF1), one of the buildings constructed using the US$29.2 Million loan to the Government under AfDB HEST. Photo credit: Davidson Ndyabahika
The Vice Chancellor further said that AfDB support has helped the University modernise laboratories and establish new ones. This has in turn enabled Makerere to produce vaccines and medicines, including the anti-tick vaccine and diagnostics for management of COVID-19 and other diseases as well as the low cost medical ventilator (Bulamu) to fight COVID-19.
Prof. Nawangwe noted that the increased output of research and innovations by Makerere would help Uganda reduce dependence on imports and upon commercialisation, provide an alternative source of revenue for the university while creating jobs for unemplyed youth. “We need support from our partners and friends to realise this plan.”
In her remarks, the Chairperson of Council Mrs. Lorna Magara congratulated Dr. Adesina upon his award, adding that it was in appreciation of his efforts to emancipate the peoples of Africa and unlock the continent’s potential.
“After today, you are going to be part of the Convocation of Makerere University and so we warmly welcome you and your team and look forward to long interactions” added the Chairperson of Council.
The Chairperson of Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara (C) flanked by Ag. DVCF, Dr. Josephine Nabukenya (R) and Ag. Dean of Students, Mrs. Winifred Kabumbuli (L) addresses the meeting with the President AfDB, Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina
“University education is the most critical thing that any society should do and when it comes to Africa, you find that not more than 9% of our population has access to tertiary education” said Dr. Adesina as he made his remarks.
He noted that the times were changing at a very fast pace with the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and advancements being made in the fields of artificial intelligence, big data, robotics, nanotechnology and biotechnology required us all to invest more in science and technology.
“If there is any place that I will gladly support without thinking twice, it will be Makerere University because it has first grade faculty members, it is a university that is focused on development, it is a university that thinks of not just its country; this is a global university that just happens to be in Africa.
“And so Mr. Vice Chancellor I just want to say that the campaign for you to receive more support from the African Development Bank is a campaign that has been made many years ago and that has been successful and so my answer is yes” remarked Dr. Adesina to thunderous applause from the members of Management in attendance.
Members present included; the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-Dr. Umar Kakumba, Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration)-Dr. Josephine Nabukenya, Ag. University Secretary-Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, University Bursar-Mr. Evarist Bainomugisha, Director Research and Graduate Training-Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza, Director ICT Support-Mr. Samuel Mugabi, Director Gender Mainstreaming-Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine, Ag. Dean of Students-Mrs. Winifred Kabumbuli, Principal College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES)-Prof. Bernard Bashaasha and representative of the Director Estates and Works-Mr. Darius Muwanguzi.
Makerere University Tuition and Functional Fees Waiver is a Scholarship Scheme that was initiated by Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate and was approved by the Makerere University Council in December 2010. The Scheme supports bright female students from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds to access education at Makerere University. The University waives off tuition and functional fees for the duration of the study of the beneficiaries of the scheme. With effect from 2021/2022 academic year, the Scheme has offered waiver of tuition and functional fees for 40 female students joining the University who meet the criteria. All Programmes in the Colleges at Makerere University Main Campus and at Makerere University Jinja Campus are eligible for this Scholarship support. These scholarships are administered by the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Makerere University. Persons with disabilities are highly encouraged to apply.
ELIGIBILITY
Scholarship applicants should meet the following criteria:
Should be female of Ugandan Nationality
Should be a first-year student admitted at Makerere University Main Campus and Jinja Campus for the academic year 2025/2026 under the Direct Entry Scheme.
Should be from a genuinely disadvantaged socio-economic background.
Those not admitted on Uganda Government sponsorship to any public university.
Those who do not hold any other scholarship e.g. District Scholarship
Must be willing to participate in a selection process as shall be determined by the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate Scholarship Committee.
THE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION FORM SUBMITTED SHALL BE DEEMED COMPLETE ONCE IT CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ATTACHMENTS;
Copies of ‘O’ and ‘A’ level academic documents.
One Passport size photograph.
A Copy of the applicant’s birth certificate.
Incase of deceased parent (s), a copy of death certificate(s)
A hand drawn physical map of an applicant’s home/residence with clear directions of how to get to that home or residence from the nearest main road (indicate approximate distances in kilometres).
The scholarship covers only tuition and functional fees. The applicant must be able to pay for their feeding, accommodation and other learning necessities required by the University for the duration of the study period.
Interested and eligible applicants can pick application forms free of charge from the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Senate Building, Level 4, Room 402 OR download a copy from the Makerere University Website: https://mak.ac.ug/
You can also access more information on our X handle @MakerereGMD
For more information or inquiries, please contact us using the following contacts:
Office Mobile Numbers: +256702960616 / +256781866728 Email Address: director.gendermainstreaming@mak.ac.ug
The Application deadline is Monday, 8th August 2025 at 5:00pm.
Centre for Language and Communication Services (CLCS), College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Makerere University in collaboration with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) invite applications for Korean Language Classes for students and members of the public.
Courses by Level
Beginner
Elementary
Intermediate
Online
TOPIK
Instructor: Wongo Yoon wongoyoon@gmail.com
Registration is open, you can register to join the class at any time.
Registration:
To register, call the Centre for Language and Communication Services (CLCS): +256 756 12 8046 / +256 775 424704
Fee: UGX 80,000 a semester
For more information Whatsapp: +256 790 505658 (Yoon) / +256 757 710511 (Mariam)
See downloads for Class Timetable
The Korean Corner is located on the 2nd floor of the Main Library at Makerere University.
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.
Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance.
“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.”
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe poses with the #MakRun2025 photo frame.
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.
Officials pose with runners in the Freedom Square.
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.