General
Mak Leadership Vows to Put God First in the Next 100 Years
By Ritah Namisango
“In the next 100 years of Makerere University, we are going to put God first,” proclaimed the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, amidst ululations from the congregation that convened at the Freedom Square on Friday 7th October 2022 to celebrate God’s love towards Makerere University. The congregation consisted of the Chancellor, Prof. Ezra Suruma, members of the University Council and Senate, religious leaders, University Management, Principals, Deputy Principals, Deans, Directors, Heads of Department, academic, administrative and support staff as well as the Leadership and the faithful from Pastor Robert Kayanja Ministries.
Reflecting on the history of Makerere’s humble beginnings as a technical school with 14 day students in 1922 to its admirable growth over the years into a renowned university impacting lives worldwide, the Vice Chancellor remarked that there is evidence that God’s power, grace, mercy and love has been bestowed upon this great institution. He vowed to work with the University leadership at all levels, staff and religious leaders to ensure that God takes centre stage at the University.
The Vice Chancellor commended the religious leaders in Uganda for always dedicating time to pray for Makerere University. He noted that the University Chaplains (St. Francis Chapel and St. Augustine Chapel) as well as the Imam of the University Mosque had played a central role in the spiritual life of the University. He was delighted that on 2nd September 2022, the Mak@100 National Day of prayer organized by the University in conjunction with the Inter-Religious Council attracted a significant number of leaders of the different denominations as well as staff, students and believers. The gathering at the Freedom Square with one accord thanked God for the gift of Makerere University and its achievements over the 100 years (1922-
2022).
Prof. Nawangwe was filled with joy that Pastor Robert Kayanja Ministries had in the same vein, partnered with staff at Makerere University, the #MakerereAt00 Organising Committee and Secretariat, and his wife Mrs. Susan Nawangwe to organize a Corporate Prayer Breakfast and Luncheon to once again lift up the name of the Almighty God at Makerere University.
He therefore applauded Pastors, Robert and Jessica Kayanja for choosing to partner with Makerere University during the celebrations to mark 100 years of excellent service to humanity and transformation.
Moved by the videos of people in Karamoja starving to death and the fundraising campaign through “The Karamoja Cry” being undertaken by the Robert Kayanja Ministries, the Vice Chancellor pledged to champion Pastor Robert and Jessica Kayanja’s Karamoja initiative at Makerere University. In this regard, Prof. Nawangwe announced a fundraising drive towards addressing the food insecurity in Karamoja sub-region. Prof. Nawangwe pledged to reach out to members of staff at Makerere University to contribute money and relief items in order to save the people of Karamoja from hunger and death.
Responding to Pastor Kayanja and Prof. Nawangwe’s plea to mobilise funds to save people from hunger, Dr. Sarah Ssali reiterated the need for a long-term and sustainable programme to address food insecurity. She observed that whereas Africa has received the biggest investment in agriculture, the continent still remains a continent of famine and hunger. “As we collect the money, we should note that this is a short term plan. We should come up with a long term plan. It is also important for us the academics to think long term. Are we just wired to fit the standards of our American and European funders or are we located in the problems of society that we live in,” she questioned.
The Principal of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at Makerere University, Dr. Gorettie Nabanoga pledged to rally academics in her college to work with the Vice Chancellor, religious leaders and the leaders in Karamoja to understand the underlying problems and come up with informed programmes focusing on food security in the region.
Addressing the audience that filled the grand tent set in Freedom Square to capacity, the Chancellor, Prof. Ezra Suruma testified that he is a living example of God’s love and loving kindness. “I was once a student. God has lifted me from humble beginnings over the years to levels of leadership,” he said. He urged God’s people to always pray, love and believe in God. He paid special tribute to his wife, Mrs. Specioza Suruma and thanked her for being a woman of faith.
A prominent alumna and Editor-in-Chief at the Vision Group, Mrs. Barbara Kaija glorified God for the nurturing and great mentorship that she received while studying at Makerere University. Beaming with pride, she acknowledged the great efforts and dedication from her teachers and faculty at the Department of Literature at Makerere University whose focus is supporting their students to achieve their full God-given potential. She therefore used the golden opportunity to congratulate her alma-mater upon celebrating her centennial anniversary and prayed that God’s providence and the power of the Holy Spirit will be the hallmarks of the next 100 years at Makerere University.
Mrs. Kaija is a woman of faith. She disclosed to the audience that her success at work, in life, marriage and family life was premised on God and her choice of salvation.
Turning to the man of God, Mrs. Kaija informed the audience that it is Pastor Kayanja who prophesied about promotion and elevation in her career path, at a time when she did not have any idea that something great was going to happen in her life.
“Pastor Robert Kayanja proclaimed Barbara Kaija you are going to be promoted. I see your promotion coming very soon. I looked at him. I said, Pastor Robert Kayanja is a very nice man who wishes others well, but I did not believe what he was saying about my promotion. I was very hard working and professional, but the system was not that easy to navigate. However, his prophesy came to pass, I was promoted and elevated. After some time, another promotion also unfolded,” she said amidst applause from the congregation.
In her speech, Mrs. Susan Nawangwe emphasized the power of prayer, fasting and believing in God. She revealed that 7 th October 2022 will always serve as a special moment in her spiritual journey, in remembrance of the day when University leadership, staff, religious leaders with support from Pastor Robert Kayanja Ministries gathered in the Freedom Square to praise and worship God for His continued love and benevolence upon Makerere University. Mrs. Nawangwe prayed that God would continue to bless Makerere University and to manifest His power in the institution’s next 100 years.
Pastors Robert and Jessica Kayanja declared that they are proud to be associated with Makerere University as it celebrates 100 years of excellent service to humanity and journey of growth and remarkable achievements. Pastor Robert Kayanja revealed that the 7th October 2022 assembly in the Freedom Square was dedicated to invoking the power of the Holy Spirit at this great institution, so that its latter 100 years would be greater than the former in all aspects.
“I praise God for the opportunity. I believe that it has been the spirit of God. The next
100 years will usher in a spiritual beginning to this university. We will realise a spiritual healing,” he proclaimed.
Accompanied by his wife-Pastor Jessica Kayanja and son-Robert Kayanja Junior, Pastor Robert Kayanja recalled with nostalgia his wedding reception that took place at the Freedom Square 31 years ago. He revealed that Makerere University especially the Freedom Square occupies a special place in his life.
“On my wedding day, I received my first meal as a husband, from my bride-Jessica Kayanja, from this very place, the Freedom Square. I am happy to stand here today, as Makerere University celebrates 100 years of existence. To God be the glory. So, Mr. Vice Chancellor, whenever I feel like coming to Makerere University, kindly always allow me, for the Freedom Square occupies a special place in my life,” he said.
Preaching the word, Pastor Robert Kayanja thanked God for the contribution Makerere University has made not only in terms of human capital development, but also Uganda’s economic development.
He called upon students, staff and any person attached to the mighty Makerere University to focus with faith, commitment and in prayer so that they too will one day have a remarkable story to share about their transformation. Pastor Kayanja shared his belief that the good Lord blesses abundantly and lifts from humble beginnings to greater heights, from glory to glory, the man or woman who plays their part in faith and hope.
“In the bible, a little boy called Joseph was sold into slavery, thrown in prison, was used to do all sorts of work but never lost focus, kept his faith in God Almighty and his story turned out different. Joseph ended up holding bigger positions in Pharaoh’s Palace, the King of Egypt at the time,” Pastor Kayanja said.
He added that Joseph not only became a leader in the Kingdom of Egypt, but also controlled their land, food and finances. Pastor Kayanja in concluding rallied staff of Makerere University to thank God for the jobs they hold, serve the University and people with dedication, work to the best of their ability and remain faithful to God.
His wife and friend, Pastor Jessica Kayanja mentioned that reaching 100 years is neither by one’s might nor luck, but by blessing from the Almighty God.
Quoting from of Isaiah 65:20 where Jesus talked about the New Jerusalem she said, “If it does not live up to 100 years may be there is a curse. Therefore, I wish to proclaim that Makerere University has lived to see the biblical word, very blessed above limits,” Pastor Jessica Kayanja remarked. She also gave an example of the father of faith, Abraham who had lived many years childless but at 100 years, was blessed with a son who became a promise and a blessing.
To officially seal the Mak@100 memories as Makerere University embarks on its journey for the next century, the Chancellor-Prof. Ezra Suruma and Mrs. Specioza Suruma, the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Mrs. Susan Nawangwe and Pastors-Robert and Jessica Kayanja posed for a photo at the Mak@100 monument that was unveiled by H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda on Thursday 6 th October 2022. The Mak@100 monument that signifies Makerere University’s readiness to grow and excel beyond limits was designed by members of staff from the Margaret Trowel School of Industrial and Fine Art and funded by Excel Construction Limited.
Driven by the desire to amplify the works of the holy spirit, Pastors Robert and Jessica Kayanja together with Prof. Ezra Suruma and Mrs. Specioza Suruma, and Mrs. Susan Nawangwe, Associate Professor Sarah Ssali (Dean-School of Women and Gender Studies) and Ms. Ritah Namisango (Principal Public Relations Officer) prayed for the completion of buildings that were under construction. Sites prayed over included the Main Building under re-construction, the Makerere University Sports Arena just next to the swimming pool, the School of Women and Gender Studies (that is being expanded as per the original plan). Pastor Robert Kayanja
dedicated the construction sites, contractors and builders to God and prayed for an overflow of resources so that buildings may be completed to serve their purpose.
“Dear Lord and powerful God, we pray that you bless the buildings and works under construction so that they come to completion within the shortest period possible. We
would like to return Lord, to witness and glorify your name, in the shortest time possible,” he prayed, to which all present assented, ‘Amen.”
The spiritual engagements at the Freedom Square were moderated by the following members of staff; Dr. Twine Bananuka, Dean-School of Distance and Life Long learning at the College of Education and External Studies, Associate Professor Sarah Ssali, Dean-School of Women and Gender Studies-College of Humanities and Social Sciences, and Pastor Julianne Susanne Sansa Otim, an Associate Professor at the College of Computing and Information Sciences.
Befitting hymns of praise and worship captivated God’s people at the Freedom Square who remained lively throughout the invocation of the holy spirit on 7th October 2022 from 7:30am to 2:55 pm.
Following the prayer breakfast and luncheon, Pastors Robert and Jessica Kayanja
proceeded to the Makerere University Main Sports Grounds for the Miracle crusade.
Makerere University today joined the global community in marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a moment dedicated to reflection on inclusion and shared responsibility. As the world pauses to honor the dignity and leadership of persons with disabilities, the University is using this year’s commemoration to reaffirm its commitment to building a campus where every individual is supported to thrive. The day is not only a celebration of resilience and contribution, but also a call to the wider community—students, staff, policymakers, and partners—to actively participate in shaping an environment where accessibility, understanding, and respect are woven into everyday practice. Through this observance, Makerere positions itself once again as a champion of inclusive education and a beacon for transformative change.
Tangible gains made
During her address at the event held in the Main Hall, the Chief Guest, Hon. Hellen Grace Asamo, Minister of State for Disability Affairs, paid tribute to Makerere University’s leadership, longtime advocates like Hon. Safia Nalule, and the many individuals who have advanced disability rights from the early years of mere “talking” to the tangible gains seen today. Speaking candidly, she emphasized that disability is often shaped by societal attitudes rather than physical conditions alone, urging families, institutions, and communities to confront stigma at its roots. Drawing from her own educational journey and the barriers she faced—including inaccessible learning spaces, limited course options, and discriminatory hiring practices—she reminded the audience that inclusion must go beyond numbers to genuine opportunity.
Hon. Asamo’s message to persons with disabilities was equally empowering: visibility and assertiveness are essential in claiming space, shaping policy, and influencing resource allocation. With examples from government reforms, improvements in accessibility, and efforts to standardize sign language interpretation, she underscored that progress is possible when commitment meets intentional planning. Her remarks reinforced a powerful truth—disability inclusion is a right, not a favour—and institutions like Makerere must continue leading the way in creating environments where every individual can participate, contribute, and thrive.
The keynote speaker Hon. Safia Nalule Jjuuko, Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission and a former Member of Parliament representing persons with disabilities for 15 years, delivered a keynote rich in personal testimony, institutional memory, and policy insight. She reflected on her own journey as a student—navigating inaccessible buildings, exhausting practical sessions, and discouraging attitudes—to illustrate how far the University and the country have come in strengthening inclusion. A proud alumna of Makerere, she celebrated the progress made, including improved infrastructure and increased representation of persons with disabilities in national leadership. She however highlighted that gaps remain, particularly the shortage of appropriately trained lecturers capable of supporting learners with disabilities across all levels of education.
Drawing from her work at the Equal Opportunities Commission, she emphasized the constitutional mandate to eliminate discrimination, promote affirmative action, and ensure a just and fair society for every Ugandan. Hon. Nalule unpacked the theme of the day by highlighting the global shift toward disability-inclusive development, stressing that concepts like intersectionality, “leaving no one behind,” and cross-cutting inclusion all speak to the same truth: inclusive planning is central to sustainable progress. She reminded the audience that disability is an evolving concept shaped by environmental barriers, negative attitudes, and lack of social support—and that participation, consultation, and awareness must always place persons with disabilities at the centre as experts of their own experiences.
Citing national statistics, policy frameworks, and ongoing reforms such as gender and equity budgeting, she challenged institutions like Makerere to engage actively in national planning processes, interrogate the cost of exclusion, and prepare graduates—especially those with disabilities—to benefit from Uganda’s development priorities in agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and services. Her address was both a celebration of progress and a call to action: a reminder that meaningful inclusion requires attention to detail, responsive planning, and intentional investment so that every student, regardless of ability, can participate fully and contribute to national transformation.
Makerere upholds responsiveness
The Acting (Ag.) Vice Chancellor Prof. Sara Ssali reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment to building an inclusive campus that models the kind of responsive institutions needed for social progress, stressing that inclusion requires both empowering marginalized people and adapting institutional structures so they no longer have to “fit in.” Drawing on Makerere’s long record of intentional policies—from improved physical accessibility and the Disability Support Centre to inclusive teaching practices, staff training, and collaborations—she highlighted practical steps the University has taken while acknowledging more work remains, especially around intersectionality and tailored support for diverse disabilities.
Prof. Ssali urged departments to mainstream disability concerns in planning and budgeting, praised the everyday care provided by wardens and support staff, and called for research, innovation and accountability so that students and staff with disabilities can fully participate and contribute. She closed by renewing Makerere’s pledge to remove barriers and nurture the next generation of inclusive leaders.
Mr. Amon Muteganda, who represents staff living with disabilities on the University Council, reaffirmed Makerere’s identity as an inclusive institution, noting that whenever disability-related concerns are raised in Council, members listen attentively and respond with genuine commitment. He expressed appreciation to University Management for consistently acting on issues brought forward, highlighting recent improvements such as the introduction of dedicated transport for students and staff with disabilities—a proposal he and colleagues championed and which has now come to fruition. He highlighted the importance of representation at multiple levels of the institution, demonstrating that Makerere’s inclusivity efforts are not symbolic but actively shaping policy, practice, and everyday experiences for persons with disabilities.
Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students, highlighted Makerere University’s deliberate efforts to foster a campus where every learner feels supported and able to thrive. She spoke about the active implementation of the University’s policy for persons with disabilities, alongside the safeguarding policy, both aimed at ensuring the welfare and dignity of all students. Dr. Kabumbuli pointed to the expanding range of accessible accommodation—such as designated halls for students with disabilities and the newly refurbished Mary Stuart Hall equipped with an elevator—as well as campus-wide additions like ramps, elevators, and accessible pathways.
She also emphasized the growing availability of assistive devices, including wheelchairs, Braille materials, and white canes, together with academic support measures such as extra time and readers during examinations. Her remarks captured Makerere’s intentional approach to inclusion, one that enables students with disabilities to navigate university life with comfort, confidence, and equal opportunity.
A student speaks out
First-year architecture student Sabiri Mungufeni shared a heartfelt account of his transition into university life, describing both his initial worries and the encouragement he found upon arriving at Makerere. He recalled fearing how his disability would fit within the demanding academic environment of the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, especially when he discovered that much of the work in architecture is still done manually. Yet through determination and the support of staff and peers, he quickly realized he could excel. Sabiri noted that seeing other students with disabilities walking confidently across campus inspired him to believe he, too, belonged. He expressed hope that, as inclusion continues to deepen, students with disabilities will be able to pursue a wider range of academic programs beyond the usual pathways, demonstrating—like many trailblazers before him—that ability is not defined by limitation but by opportunity and support.
Personal accounts urge sustained momentum
The event also featured a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Dr. Diana Ateenyi Ahumuza, offering a blend of academic, experiential, and advocacy-based perspectives on disability inclusion. The panel brought together Dr. Naboth Rwakazwaire, founder of Hope for People with Disabilities; Prof. Anthony Mugagga, Principal of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES); Lord Councillor Peace Sserunkuma; and Ms. Catherine Nakibuuka, a second-year law student. Their conversation explored practical solutions, policy gaps, personal experiences, and the role of institutions like Makerere in shaping a more inclusive society.
Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, the Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) and Principal of the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), delivered the closing remarks by thanking all participants for their thoughtful contributions and the spirit of unity shown throughout the commemoration. He emphasized that inclusion is not a one-day event but an ongoing responsibility that requires empathy, patience, and deliberate action from every member of the Makerere community.
Drawing from personal experience and lifelong lessons of compassion, he encouraged staff and students to cultivate genuine sensitivity toward the needs of persons with disabilities and to champion inclusion in both mindset and practice. Prof. Mwine acknowledged the progress made—including accessible infrastructure, strengthened policies, and dedicated support services—while urging continued investment, collaboration, and accountability to ensure that Makerere becomes a place where all individuals can thrive without barriers. He ended by calling on the University to sustain the momentum built during the commemoration and to work together in building a more inclusive Makerere and Uganda.
Excitement filled the air on Friday evening as Makerere University’s student and staff Safeguarding Champions gathered at the serene Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR) Gardens for a memorable celebration of their Semester One achievements.
The event, which blended elegance with purpose, brought together Champions from across the University community to honour their hard work, dedication and shared commitment to building a safer campus for all.
The gardens came alive with warm conversations, laughter and energizing music as Champions checked in and made new friends.
The dinner was more than just a celebratory moment, it became an important space for learning, networking and strengthening collaboration. Champions shared experiences from the semester, discussed challenges they had faced while supporting peers and colleagues, and exchanged new ideas to improve safeguarding awareness across the University.
Addressing the champions, Dr. Rodney Rugyema, the Acting Principal Warden who represented the Dean of Students, Dr Winifred Kabumbuli, emphasized that the efforts of Safeguarding Champions continue to play a critical role in strengthening trust and ensuring the wellbeing of all students and staff.
The atmosphere was filled with gratitude, pride and a renewed commitment to building a safer and more inclusive community at the University.
Speaking at the dinner, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, Director Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, applauded the Champions for their dedication, vigilance and exemplary leadership in promoting safety, dignity and respect on campus
“As we gather to celebrate our progress in enhancing the Safety and Wellness of Students and Staff, it is important to acknowledge those who have made this possible- The University Leadership, Student and Staff Safeguarding Champions. We also acknowledged our Partner the Mastercard Foundation for the support in strengthening safeguarding and inclusion at Makerere,” Prof. Namaalwa, said
During the dinner, different student champions shared their success stories for the semester.
“This semester has proved to us that when students and staff work together, we can create a University environment where everyone feels protected, respected and valued. Tonight is a celebration of our collective effort, but also a reminder that the work continues. We pledge to stay vigilant, to listen, and to respond with empathy and integrity,” Precious Ssenonga, a second-year student from the College of Computing and Information Sciences, said.
Samuel Ssempijja, a second-year student of pursuing the Bachelor of Education, noted that during the semester he encouraged fellow students to utilise the MakSafeSpace and that gave many confidence to report cases.
“During the MakRun, several students’ phones were stolen. I advised them to report the theft case through MakSafeSpace, our online safeguarding platform. The students were impressed by how quickly the security team responded, and it reassured them that their concerns are taken seriously by the University Management. MakSafeSpace has shown us that timely reporting and timely action can truly make a difference.” Ssempijja, noted.
The event closed with farewells and promises to carry the spirit of the evening into Semester Two. For many, it was more than a dinner, it was a reminder that together, they are building a University environment where every student and staff member feels safe, valued and included.
About Safeguarding Initiatives at Makerere
In this era of heightened awareness and scrutiny surrounding safeguarding practices, Institutions of higher learning are increasingly rated by not only their academic excellence but also on their commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for all members of their community.
The potential safeguarding risks in Institutions of higher learning include emotional distress, Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (SEAH); material loss, financial exploitation, discrimination and neglect, unfair and illegitimate response to civic engagements, cyber security/threats, psychological and emotional harm, substance abuse, and physical assault.
Discrimination and neglect are often high risks for students with disabilities and international students.
Makerere University has a duty of care and to promote the wellbeing of all students, staff and other University community stakeholders. It seeks to enhance the learning environment to make it more secure, inclusive, and ethically sound for all stakeholders.
The Safeguarding policy lays out the University’s framework for embedding viable safeguarding measures into its ethos and all institutional activities and processes to: identify, detect, and act swiftly on safeguarding risks; prevent the occurrence of harm; provide mechanisms for reporting all allegations or incidents that have occurred; respond appropriately to all reported incidences; and, continuously monitor, evaluate and learn from practices and experiences of managing safeguarding concerns.
General
From Mastercard Foundation Scholar to Changemaker: Dr. Ekwaro Ronald’s Vision for Eye Health in Uganda
Dr Ekwaro Ronald, a Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni at Makerere University, is committed to enhancing eye health in Uganda. He plans to establish the country’s first Myopia Control Centre, dedicated to safeguarding the eye health of young people in Uganda and neighbouring nations. This goal is within reach, given his experience and commitment. At present, he is gaining valuable experience in the Optometry Department at Mengo Hospital, one of Uganda’s largest private hospitals. His dedication and efforts were recognised last year when he received the hospital’s best optometrist award.
His Early Life
Ronald was born on May 5, 1997, in the Oyam District of Northern Uganda. He is the youngest of eight siblings, comprising six boys and two girls. Tragically, Ronald’s father, a primary school teacher, passed away just two months after his birth. This loss placed Ronald and his seven siblings under the care of their mother, a single parent and smallholder farmer, who became the sole provider for the family.
Early Education
Ronald took a unique path in his education, starting school at the age of seven at Alutkot Primary School in his neighbourhood. With his elder brother’s encouragement and support, he completed Primary Five. He then moved on to Masindi Army Day Primary School for Primary Six, where he was supported and lived with his other elder brother, who served in the army at the time. For Primary Seven, Ronald returned to his village home and completed his primary leaving examinations at Loro Primary School. Despite the challenge of walking approximately 2 kilometres to attend school, he demonstrated determination and resilience in his pursuit of education.
Secondary Education
Despite the challenges he faced and the frequent changes of educational institutions, he completed Primary Seven with a first-grade distinction. One of his elder brothers, a primary school teacher, provided financial support for his continued education. Consequently, Ronald was enrolled as a boarding student at Blessed Comboni Secondary School in Kiryandongo District. However, due to financial constraints stemming from his brother’s limited income, he transferred to Masindi Army Secondary School in his second year. This transition occurred under the Universal Secondary Education (USE) programme, an initiative of the Ugandan government that offers free secondary education to young individuals from communities facing social and economic barriers.
While attending Blessed Comboni Secondary school, he lived with his elder brother in a military barracks, which exposed him to military life from an early age. This experience of living in an army environment significantly shaped his fearless and resilient character, enabling him to navigate the challenges of growing up without a father.
In 2014, he performed excellently in his Form Four final examinations, earning a first-grade qualification. Afterwards, he received support for his A-Level studies through BRAC-Uganda in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. He then joined Seeta High School Green Campus in Mukono, where he studied Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB).
Joining Makerere University
In 2017, after excelling in his final A-Level exams, he once again became a Mastercard Foundation Scholar at Makerere University through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Optometry, a four-year eye healthcare programme at the College of Health Sciences.
“I chose Optometry because of my passion for optics and physics. At Seeta High School Green Campus, I was the only student to score an A in Physics in the 2016 Form Six final examinations. I wanted to combine my knowledge of Physics and Biology to help improve people’s vision,” Ronald explains.
While pursuing his studies at Makerere University, Ronald’s life transformed for the better, largely due to the robust support from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. The support provided him with the opportunity to support his family while continuing his education. Notably, he utilised a portion of his monthly stipend to help his elder sister with her tuition for her final semester of nursing school, exemplifying the impact of his journey on his life and his family’s lives.
Ronald took proactive steps to kickstart his career as an Optometrist even before graduating. While studying at the University, he sought out various learning experiences and volunteer opportunities in eye care facilities to enhance his practical skills. His volunteer work at Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital and Lapaire significantly enriched his curriculum vitae and provided invaluable hands-on experience in the field.
“I did not wait for graduation to pursue my career aspirations as an optometrist. From the beginning of my academic programme, I actively sought opportunities and volunteered at Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital and Lapaire. These experiences greatly enriched my curriculum vitae. I encourage fellow students at the university to begin exploring opportunities while still enrolled, as gaining relevant experience is vital for meeting the expectations of prospective employers upon graduation.” Ronald advises.
Life After Makerere University
Upon graduating from Makerere University in 2022, Ronald navigated the job market with remarkable ease, thanks to the strategic internships and volunteer positions he pursued during his studies. His proactive networking efforts paid off when he received an invitation to apply for a position at Mengo Hospital. Just two days before graduation, he was among three candidates shortlisted for interviews. This allowed him to celebrate his graduation with a sense of accomplishment, knowing he had already secured a job. He began his new role at the hospital shortly after graduation, marking the start of an exciting new chapter in his career.
His Professional Life as an Optometrist at Mengo Hospital
Over the past three years at Mengo Hospital, Ronald has demonstrated professionalism, a sentiment echoed by his colleagues. His unwavering commitment to prioritising patients’ interests has not only earned him the 2024 Best Optometrist award at the Eye Department but also emphasised the positive impact of his work. Beyond his clinical duties, Ronald has developed a strong research interest. He is currently in the advanced stages of securing a grant from the World Council of Optometrists to study the progression of myopia (commonly known as short-sightedness) in children. He is optimistic that the findings will significantly aid advocacy efforts for myopia intervention strategies, ultimately helping to ease the challenges this condition poses for children in Uganda.
His Impact on the Community
With his siblings’ support, he successfully built a house for his mother in Oyam district, demonstrating his commitment to his family. He is also contributing to the tuition expenses of one of his nephews currently attending university, emphasising his dedication to education and the next generation. In 2024, he took part in a Mengo Hospital outreach team that screened and provided post-surgical care for over 100 patients who received free cataract surgeries, made possible by the generous support of Christian Blind Mission. The surgeries were performed at PAG Mission Hospital in Lira. Through his efforts, he mobilised numerous community members to take advantage of this initiative, leading to many people having their sight restored and enhancing the overall well-being of his community.
Looking into the Future
Ronald is on a mission to establish the first Myopia Control Centre in Uganda, aiming to make a significant impact on children’s eye health in the region. Currently, he is pursuing a Pediatric Optometry Fellowship at the Indian Academy of Optometry, where he is gaining valuable knowledge and expertise in myopia control. This training will empower him to lead a specialised centre dedicated to reducing the progression of myopia among children in Uganda. The centre will implement evidence-based interventions, including orthokeratology lenses and low-dose atropine eye drops, to effectively manage myopia.
Additionally, it will serve as a vital resource for identifying and addressing other childhood eye disorders that can hinder academic performance, such as squints, amblyopia (lazy eye), heterophorias, accommodative disorders, and convergence insufficiency. Through these efforts, Ronald envisions a brighter future for children’s vision and learning in Uganda.
Message to Fellow Young People
Ronald encourages other young people to establish clear developmental goals and set specific timeframes for each one. He emphasises the importance of discipline and focus, urging them to stay committed and continuously strive for progress.
Words of Gratitude to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University
“I would like to express my profound gratitude to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University and the entire Mastercard Foundation team for their pivotal role in transforming my life and providing opportunities that were previously unimaginable. Your support not only facilitated my education but also reinstated my hope, dignity, and sense of purpose in my journey. As someone who faced barriers to opportunity, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has served as a significant turning point, shaping my future and empowering me to become the individual I am today.” Ronald remarks.
Ronald emphasises that through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, he gained access to quality education, mentorship, leadership training, and a community that believes in the power of young people to change the world. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program enabled him to devote himself fully to his studies and to support his family during critical moments, demonstrating both academic focus and a strong sense of responsibility.
“I am especially grateful for the values the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program instilled in us: service, humility, leadership, and the responsibility to uplift our communities. These values continue to guide my professional journey and my commitment to improving eye health in Uganda.” Ronald pointed out.
The writer is the Principal Communication & Public Relations Officer for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University
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