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Former Lions Clubs International President Lion Douglas X. Alexander pays a courtesy visit to Vice Chancellor

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On 23rd August 2022, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe received a delegation of Lion leaders from Lions Clubs International in his office as a sign of friendship and recognition of Makerere@100 years. 

The delegation included the Immediate Past International President (IPIP) Lion Douglas X. Alexander on his maiden visit to the Lions of the District 411B, Uganda. Douglas X. Alexander, from Brooklyn, New York, USA, was elected to serve as international president of Lions Clubs International at the association’s 103rd International Convention held on June 25 through June 29, 2021. As of June 28, 2022, Douglas will serve as Chairperson for Lions Club International Foundation (LCIF) through July 11, 2023. Douglas has been a Lion for the last 38 years. Douglas was accompanied by the respective and distinguished Lion leaders from the Multiple District 411 led by Past International Director Lion Dr. Manoj Shah, his spouse Lion Jayna Shah and District 411B Governor Lion Amongin Aporu Christine Hellen.  Several other Lions leaders including Multiple Council Person, Past Council Chairpersons, Past Governors, Cabinet Officers and Club Presidents accompanied the visitor. During the brief meeting in the Vice Chancellor’s Board Room, Lion Douglas Alexander thanked Prof. Nawangwe for empowering and mentoring young people to serve humanity. He glorified Makerere University for nurturing leaders as was evidenced by the several Makerere Alumni being part of the delegation providing outstanding leadership at various levels in the leadership structures of Lions Club International. He pointed out that because of the great leadership, the Lions numbers in Uganda is growing very fast and that Makerere University could further contribute to this growth.

Currently there are 57 Clubs in Uganda with 1879 members and globally with about 1.4 million members. These members serve humanity through the main five global serve areas of Vision, Diabetes, Hunger, Childhood Cancer and Environment. In addition to these mentioned areas, Lions all over the world respond to community needs in their specific locations and any form of disasters that strike the world. “ Wherever there is a need, Lions are there” with their motto “We Serve”. The District Governor Lion Amongin Aporu Christine Hellen extended the invitation to Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe to join the association that serves humanity. 

Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe adorns Lion Douglas X. Alexander a Makerere University lapel pin.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, welcomed the Lion Leaders with a special welcome to the Immediate Past International President (IPIP) Lion Douglas X. Alexander to Uganda and specifically to Makerere University as the university commemorates 100 years of existence. Prof. Nawangwe appreciated Douglas X. Alexander for finding time in the short stay of only 3 days in Uganda to visit Makerere University amidst tight schedules. He was extremely happy by the kind gesture of Lion leaders. He briefly narrated the history of Makerere University from 1922 and acknowledged that the journey has had some challenges and at the same time registered several achievements in providing quality education for generations. He noted that the Alumni of Makerere University can be found in every continent and if not every country serving in different positions. He was happy to see his members of staff among the top leaders of the association i.e Lion Eng. Dr. Dans Naturinda – from College of Engineering Art and Design, Prof. Mercy Mirembe Ntangaare – from College of Humanities and Social Sciences and Associate Professor Lawrence Mugisha – from College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity as well as all other Makerere Alumni.  The two leaders called for continued friendship and partnership in serving humanity. They exchanged the sign of friendship with label pins and flagship banner. 

Immediate Past International President (IPIP) Lion Douglas X. Alexander planting a tree at Makerere Lions Leisure Park

The Lion Leaders guided by the Lion Dr. Lawrence Mugisha, Club President, Kampala Central proceeded to plant trees in the Makerere Lions Leisure Park below Nsibirwa Hall of Residence.

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Makerere University Convocation Graduation Luncheon Honors CEDAT Staff and Outstanding Students

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Several staff members from the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) were recognized for their exceptional contributions in research and teaching during the Makerere University Convocation 75th graduation luncheon, held on Friday, January 17th, 2025. The event celebrated the achievements of top students, teachers, and researchers, with special awards presented to CEDAT staff for their outstanding performance and dedication.

Assoc. Prof. Dorothy Okello and Mr. Ayor Andrew Semakula received the Teacher of the Year Award, acknowledging their exemplary contributions to education and their significant impact on students. The recognition highlights the commitment and excellence of CEDAT staff in advancing the fields of engineering, design, art, and technology.

The Senior Career Award went toProf. Kirabira John Baptist, Prof. Olupot Wilberforce and Assoc. Prof. Michael Luswataall from the Mechanical Engineering Department.

Congratulations to you dear staff Prof. Olupot Wilberforce for receiving the Senior Career Award

Dr.VianeyYiga, Dr. SemiyagaSwaib, Mr. Manga Musa got the Mid-Career Award, while  Ms. Namuju Dona Lillian, Ms. Wesonga Racheal and Ms. NamakulaHidaaya received the Early Career Award. At the same event, thirty of the best performing students were also recognized.

Congratulations to you dear staff Dr.Vianey Yiga for receiving the Mid Career Award

The Makerere University Convocation 75th graduation luncheon celebrated outstanding achievements, with a strong emphasis on recognizing excellence through awards. Colonel Edith Nakalema, Senior Presidential Advisor and Head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, delivered a keynote address focused on integrity and creativity for graduates.Col. Nakalema stressed the need for graduates to uphold high moral standards and professionalism, urging them to focus on creativity and integrity, especially in the age of AI, to achieve true success.

The event, themed “Celebrating Excellence and Creating Path to Success,” honored the top performers from each college. Col. Nakalema congratulated the graduates and highlighted the importance of making positive contributions to society. Other speakers, including Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, and Hon. Godfrey Baluku Kabyanga, Minister of State for ICT and National Guidance, emphasized the role of universities in socio-economic transformation and the importance of research.

Congratulations to you dear staff Dr. Semiyaga Swaib for receiving the Early Career Award

Written by Harriet Musinguzi, Principle Communication Officer, College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology

Alex Isemaghendera

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RENU 2025 Graduate Trainee Program (GTP)

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A section of the undergraduate candidates on Day 1 of the 75th Graduation Ceremony. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Applications are open for young graduates to work with the Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU)’s Finance Operations, Systems and Software and Network Operations departments under the 2025 RENU Graduate Trainee Program (GTP).

The details on how to apply can be found in the link below.

https://jobs.renu.ac.ug/careers

Please note that the application deadline is Friday 24th January 2025 at 5.00 p.m. EAT.

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Excitement as 36 Mastercard Foundation Scholars graduate from Makerere University

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Graduates and officials pose in a photo at the event. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. Celebration of completion of 36 Mastercard Foundation Scholars, 17th January 2025, Guest House, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By the Program Communication Team

On Friday, January 17, 2025, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars celebrated a significant milestone as they graduated from Makerere University. The day was filled with enthusiasm and pride as 36 dedicated students completed their Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program journey. This achievement reflects their hard work and commitment and paves the way for new opportunities in their future endeavours.

At the event, Mr. Adrian Bukenya, the Country Director of Mastercard Foundation Uganda and the chief guest, encouraged the new graduates to create jobs for their peers rather than solely seeking employment for themselves.

“As fresh graduates, your first step shouldn’t be simply searching for jobs. Instead, focus on creating job opportunities for your peers. The university degree you have earned puts you in a unique position. The knowledge and skills you’ve gained and the experiences and connections you have made empower you to thrive in this country,” Mr. Bukenya remarked.

Mr. Adrian Bukenya, the Country Director, Mastercard Foundation-Uganda speaking at the event. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. Celebration of completion of 36 Mastercard Foundation Scholars, 17th January 2025, Guest House, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Adrian Bukenya, the Country Director, Mastercard Foundation-Uganda speaking at the event.

Mr. Bukenya further expressed his gratitude to Makerere University‘s leadership and acknowledged the profound relationship the University shares with the Foundation. He emphasized that the partnership with Makerere University was essential to the Foundation.

“The Mastercard Foundation values its partnership with Makerere University, as the university continues to produce exceptional talent essential for Uganda’s development. The country would struggle to achieve its national aspirations without this contribution,” noted Mr. Bukenya.

Mr. Bukenya emphasized the core mission of the Mastercard Foundation, which is to alleviate poverty in areas where it is most prevalent and to enhance access to education. He pointed out that the Scholars Program is a fundamental component of this initiative. He noted that earning a degree is a valuable tool and a testament to an individual’s ability to learn, perform tasks, and achieve results within structured and organized frameworks.

He further stressed the Foundation’s commitment to empowering young people to lead and transform Africa.

Graduates and officials cutting the cake. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. Celebration of completion of 36 Mastercard Foundation Scholars, 17th January 2025, Guest House, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Graduates and officials cutting the cake.

“The Mastercard Foundation has made a strategic commitment to focus uniquely on Africa, home to the world’s youngest population. Through its ‘Young Africa Works’ strategy, the Foundation supports entrepreneurship and enterprise development among young people, empowering them to shape the future of their communities and the continent.” emphasized Mr. Bukenya.

Speaking on behalf of the University Management, Professor Buyinza Mukadasi, the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic Affairs and Chairperson of the Steering Committee for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, congratulated the program for achieving an impressive 94% graduation completion rate.

“The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University has graduated 964 scholars—78% female and 22% male—representing 94% of the 1,032 recruits from Phase One. We expect to achieve 100% graduation for all Phase One scholars at the 76th Graduation Ceremony next year.” Prof. Buyinza remarked.

Prof. Buyinza expressed gratitude to the Mastercard Foundation for its ongoing support of the university, which has significantly added value, particularly in educating young people from vulnerable communities.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, speaking on behalf of the university management at the function. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. Celebration of completion of 36 Mastercard Foundation Scholars, 17th January 2025, Guest House, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, speaking on behalf of the university management at the function.

“We sincerely thank the Mastercard Foundation for partnering with Makerere University to educate and empower the next generation of leaders and change-makers. The statistics regarding the number of young people supported and the impact that the program’s alumni have made in society are a testament to the energy and potential of young individuals when provided with the right education, guidance, and support.” Prof. Buyinza pointed out.

Program Director Prof. Justine Namaalwa emphasized her team’s commitment to ensuring the successful operation of the Scholars Program at Makerere University for years to come.

Makerere University and the nation greatly appreciate the Mastercard Foundation for its generosity and foresight, which continue to transform human capital in Africa. There is no doubt that your vision for Africa is being realized. We are committed to this mission, even as we enter phase two of the program,” noted Prof. Namaalwa.

Prof. Namaalwa expressed gratitude to the University Management, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Nawangwe, for their support and commitment to the Scholars Program.  She pointed out that the strong backing from the university management has enabled the Program to meet its goals and succeed at the University.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director, addressing the gathering. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. Celebration of completion of 36 Mastercard Foundation Scholars, 17th January 2025, Guest House, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director, addressing the gathering.

“I sincerely thank the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, and the entire University Management and the governing structures of the Program for their effective leadership, which continues to yield positive results from our strong partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.” Prof. Namaalwa pointed out.

Prof. Namaalwa equally appreciated the graduates for helping achieve the Mastercard Foundation’s goals, which aims to educate and empower the next generation of African leaders. She noted that Makerere University has begun implementing the second phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which will span the next ten years. In this phase, the Mastercard Foundation has committed to providing scholarships to 1,000 academically talented youth facing economic hardships, enabling them to access quality education at Makerere University.

She asserted that the Mastercard Foundation prioritizes three key transition pathways: formal employment, entrepreneurship, and further education. She urged the graduates to remain active on all the program’s social media platforms, especially the Alumni WhatsApp platform, as it will be a vital channel for sharing ongoing opportunities from the Mastercard Foundation and other partners.

Ms. Aida Aol (centre) speaking. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. Celebration of completion of 36 Mastercard Foundation Scholars, 17th January 2025, Guest House, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Aida Aol (centre) speaking.

Ms Aida Aol, the mother of graduate Mr Okello Godfrey, expressed gratitude on behalf of parents and guardians. She thanked the Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University for providing her son and other vulnerable young people with the opportunity to study at one of the best universities in Uganda. Ms. Aol highlighted that she had lost hope for her son’s university education due to financial constraints.

“I cannot thank Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University enough for providing our children with the opportunity to attend one of the best universities in the country. Many of us parents could not afford to send our children here because we did not have the resources to pay for their education,” Ms. Aol remarked.

Ms. Aol stated that she lost her husband when her son was only four years old, and she had since committed herself to ensuring he completed both elementary and high school. However, she reached a critical point where she could no longer afford to support his university education.

Graduates speak out

Awien Rose Madot, a Journalism and Communication graduate, expressed her gratitude to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for transforming her life. The program enabled her to achieve her academic goals and instilled in her a strong sense of responsibility to use her degree to create positive change in the world.

Ms. Rose Madot and Dr. Kasuku Raphael speaking on behalf of their fellow graduates. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. Celebration of completion of 36 Mastercard Foundation Scholars, 17th January 2025, Guest House, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Rose Madot and Dr. Kasuku Raphael speaking on behalf of their fellow graduates.

“Accessing higher education can often feel like a distant dream for refugees like me. However, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has served as a powerful beacon of hope. It clearly demonstrates that education is a vital tool for empowerment and transformation, even in the face of adversity. The Program has provided us with financial resources, as well as invaluable mentorship, guidance, and a strong support network for all the scholars involved,” said Madot.

Dr. Raphael Kasuku, a dental surgery graduate, pledged to continue the spirit of giving back to his community by offering dental services. He urged his fellow graduates to utilize the knowledge and skills they acquired through their education to uplift their communities.

“To my fellow graduates, this moment marks not just the end of a chapter but the beginning of an exciting new journey. The world ahead is vast and brimming with opportunities that we are ready to seize. It won’t always be easy, but we must remember that the resilience, determination, and passion that brought us here will continue to propel us forward as we strive to serve our communities.” Dr. Kasuku remarked.

The colourful event was a vibrant gathering held in the gardens of the University Guest House, bringing together a diverse community of program stakeholders. Attendees included members of the University management and the Steering and Selection Committees. Mentors of the Scholars Program, parents and guardians, and alumni also contributed to the inspiring atmosphere. Additionally, representatives from the Mastercard Foundation and program partners joined the celebration, along with numerous well-wishers who continue to support the Program’s mission.

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