General
MURBS Trustees Declare 11.05% Interest on Members Balances for the FY 2021/2022
The Board of Trustees for the Makerere University Retirements Benefits Scheme (MURBS) has declared an interest of 11.05% on members’ balances for the financial year starting 1st July, 2021 to 30th June, 2022.
The Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Godwin Kakuba made this declaration during the Presentation of the MURBS Performance for the Financial year ending 30th June 2022 to members of the University Council and Management at a meeting held on 18th October 2022 at Makerere University Telepresence Centre, Senate Building. The meeting was graced by Makerere University Council Members, the Vice Chancellor and members of management, the CEO Uganda Retirements Benefits Authority Mr. Martin. A Nsubuga, the CEO of the Insurance Company of East Africa and leaders of staff associations. Other members present were Trustees of MURBS, MURBS departmental Ambassadors, staff of Makerere university and MURBS among others.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Kakuba highlighted that given what has been happening on local and international market and the impact caused by the COVID pandemic, the declared interest is above the inflation rate implying that members contributions have been well preserved. He revealed that for 1,116 members of staff, the interest generated through the scheme investments and credited on their accounts is more than contributions received from the university.
The Board also confirmed that Makerere University remitted all the contributions that were due for the entire Financial year. Members funds grew from UGX 255bn to 299bn supported by the increase in contributions and positive returns from investments and is projected to hit a trillion by 30th June 2026.
Dr. Kakuba reported that the schemes accounts were audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers Certified Public Accountants who issued unqualified opinion on the financial statements. He said the scheme membership increased by 1000. As at 30th June 2022, the scheme had 7, 162 (active 3,093 and Deferred -4,069) members compared to 5,984(Active -2007 and Deferred -3907) as at 30th June 2021.
“The Trustees collected contributions totaling UGX 33.5bn as compared to UGX 24.5bn for the FY 2020/2021. Out of the 33.5bn, UGX 29.4bn was paid in respect of staff of Makerere university on main payroll except UGX 82.5m. The Trustees appreciate this compliance and are also grateful for the plans drawn to settle the difference. The Trustees thank the Makerere University for honouring these obligations,” he commended.
Dr. Kakuba appreciated the University Management for the progress made towards debt recoveries. The Trustees recovered UGX 6.5bn in respect of the In-house debt and thus, combined with UGX 5bn paid by Government on 20th May 2021, the scheme recovered UGX 11.5bn by 30th June 2022. Dr. Kakuba reported that on 4th August 2022, the Government paid UGX 1.5bn, bringing the cumulative amount recovered to UGX 13bn representing 51% total debt recoveries expressing hope that the balance of 12.4bn will also be cleared.
“The members’ funds grew from UGX 255bn at the start of the FY 2021/2022 to UGX 299bn at the end. This growth was supported by the increase in contributions and positive returns from investments. During the year, trustees approved investments in Unit Trusts which created an avenue for the scheme to maximise opportunities for daily cash contributions. The scheme’s strategy to significantly divest from equities continues to cushion our assets against volatility.” part of the statement reads.
Reporting on the effect of Fund value and return on investment on individual members, Dr. Kakuba noted that MURBs now has a member holding benefits in excess of UGX 400m while the average of the top five holdings exceeds UGX 398m. He promised that the Trustees will strive to push the member with the biggest member holding to hit 0.5bn mark over the next 12 months.
Kakuba also reported that for the past years the scheme has been voluntarily participating in Financial Reporting competitions to gauge its standard of financial reporting as compared to other financial institutions in the country with emphasis on the disclosures made in the report, governance, sustainability, communication and presentation of the accounts.
“With respect to the 2020 Annual report, MURBS again emerged winner in the Retirement Benefits Sector category. These awards are a confirmation that MURBS is on the right course. We are proud to have our scheme as a leader of the pension scheme,” said Dr. Kakuba.
Chairperson of Council satisfied with the interest of 11.05%, cautions staff on Mid Term
Access
In a speech read by Prof. Frank Mwine, the Chairperson Makerere University Council Mrs. Magara congratulated MURBS upon its consistent commitment on accountability to the stakeholders, subjecting the books accounts for auditing by a reputable firm, participating in the Financial reporting competitions and winning five awards.
The Chairperson of Council commended the Trustees for the positive performance indicators, a growing fund and membership, diversified investments, the growing net return on investment and competent return on investment. As leaders in the pension sector, the Chair implored the scheme to keep the position and support other retirement benefits schemes in Uganda to improve.
“I have noted that you have declared less interest this year than last year., but considering the economy and market conditions during the 2021/2022 Financial Year, I am satisfied that the interest 11.05% is a good return. So, our Trustees have done very well and as Council, we agree that this performance has added value on each members holding in MURBS.”
The Chairperson of Council reminded the Trustees to be aware that handling mandatory contributions requires a great deal of care. She implored the Trustees to take the highest level of due diligence as they work with service providers in the sector noting that there is no greater pain to an employee than to be told some of the money was lost in some not-so-clear investments.
In her speech, Mrs. Magara also encouraged staff and retirees not to spend a big part of the retirement package and to take advantage of the MURBS Annuity program in order to have a comfortable retirement. She reasoned that given the rate at which the scheme fund is growing, and the benefits they have, it’s likely that annuity pay-outs will soon be able to match a retirees exit salary for many members. She asked Trustees to sensitize members on the benefits of annuities.
The Chairperson of Council reminded MURBS members that there has been early access to retirement benefits before in Makerere and this has been one of the main reasons senior staff may be still having smaller packages for retirement and some members ending up accusing the university for giving them peanuts at the end of service.
Mrs. Magara cautioned and expressed concern about whispers of MURBS members getting early access to and part of their retirement money on the pretext of hardships faced during the lockdown years of COVID 19.
“I am not convinced this is a good idea for the members of MURBS since the university was able to pay full salaries during that time. The idea of midterm access coming out of a one–time event called COVID 19 should not become entrenched into long term scheme rules. I will therefore caution you to be very careful with this idea and sensitize members of MURBS,” she guided.
MURBS performance-a relief and in line with Council’s objectives – Mak VC
Describing MURBS as the brain child of the Makerere University Council established 12 years ago, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe said the purpose was to ensure that staff lived decent lives in retirement. Prof. Nawangwe reported that the status of the scheme was last year boosted when the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development exempted the University from mandatory contributions to NSSF, making handling of mandatory retirements benefits easier and adding value to the university employees.
Prof. Nawangwe congratulated the Trustees upon the excellent performance saying, the good results presented met the original objectives of the University Council. “It is so gratifying to hear that there are more than 60 employees whose retirement packages are over 300m but are still working and some still below 50 years. This was unthinkable a few years ago. It is good to hear that over 1000 individuals have received more interest than their contributions in this financial year. This is a big achievement for a University that used to suffer negative publicity on the basis of retirement packages of her employees,” Prof. Nawangwe stated.
Prof. Nawangwe recalled that 12 years ago MURBS started with less than UGX 20bn but now holds, over UGX 300bn and receiving monthly contributions over UGX 2bn. He reminded participants that this is part of the potential he was referring to while starting his first term as Vice Chancellor.
“You may also recall that unlocking the potential within Makerere University was top of my agenda. In the case of social security of staff, this is being done every month when more than UGX 2bn is invested by our own scheme and for repayment of university debt. In addition, I promised to prioritise repayment of university debt.”
The Vice Chancellor, expressed happiness that the University with support from Government completed paying all debts for the period between 2005 and 2011 and has now repaid UGX13bn of in-house debt pledging that the balance is expected to be cleared in less than two years.
Vice Chancellor challenges staff to face the challenges of the century squarely
Turning to the staff, the Vice Chancellor stressed that with the completion of celebrations of 100 years of excellent service to humanity, Makerere University has a firm foundation on which to build.
“It is now time to face the challenges of the century squarely. We owe it to the Ugandan tax payer and to the Government of Uganda to come up with innovations that will solve the problems that our people are facing,” Prof. Nawangwe said adding:
“The Government has consistently been increasing funding towards universities. So, Universities too, and Makerere in particular, need to support government development programmes for the country by finding real solutions that impact lives and transform society. Let us nature the good relationship that exists between Government and Makerere university,” Prof. Nawangwe said.
Prof. Nawangwe commended the University Council and Management for the support accorded to MURBS saying, they have worked with the Trustees over many complicated matters and were going to continue working together in other matters such as the amendment of the Trust Deed of MURBS as the new dispensation requires.
MURBS has a formidable team and experts –CEO UBRA
The Chief Executive Officer Uganda Benefits Regulatory authority, Mr. Martin A. Nsubuga congratulated Makerere University upon holding the centennial celebrations successfully. Mr. Nsubuga also congratulated the MURBS for the wonderful performance.
“For people in this Market, declaring the interest of 11. 05% in the era of COVID and the market dynamics that were present, I really have to congratulate you. You have a very good formidable team with very good experts.”
Re-affirming the position of the Trustees on the interest declared and investments made, Mr. Nsubuga said: “On our side, we can only confirm that the numbers that have been declared are consistent with what we had anticipated. Just to confirm to you when we came here we know where your money is invested with almost 80 % in fixed assets and we know how they are trading, we had an idea and we would have been disappointed if they had declared anything less than 10%.”
Mr. Nsubuga commended MURBS Trustees for upholding good governance standards saying, they are reliable, the reason why they were recommended to become an in dependent pension scheme.
He said as a regulator, they were proud of MURBS credibility in her Financial statements describing the performance as unrivalled as far as the standard, disclosures and the returns are concerned.
He appreciated the University Management and Council for the support rendered to the scheme, fulfilling the contribution obligation and enabling the scheme to operate and perform without influence.
Mr. Nsubuga also commended the schemes foresightedness. He implored staff and Trustees to make an arrangement to work with ICEA and and purchase annuities so that they can receive monthly payments throughout their lifetime.
By: Jane Anyango and Ritah Namisango
Pupils, parents and authorities at Bwera Primary School in Kabale District were filled with joy as the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, in partnership with dfcu Bank, handed over a four-classroom block to the school.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, one of the parents, Saison Tumukuratire, expressed gratitude for the support.
“We thank God for this gesture. Our children can now attend classes without interruptions caused by rain. Previously, whenever it rained, lessons would stop. The old building was on the verge of collapsing, had no windows, and the floor was dusty,” she said.
Uganda has made significant progress in expanding access to education through Universal Primary Education (UPE); bringing millions of children into school. However, in hard-to-reach communities, physical access and the quality of learning environments continue to shape how effectively that opportunity translates into consistent attendance and meaningful outcomes.
Bwera Primary School, a government-aided institution located in the remote and hard to reach village in Kahama Sub-County, has an enrollment of 275 pupils. For decades, the school has faced significant challenges related to access and infrastructure.
With no road access and limited infrastructure, the school has long struggled to provide a conducive environment for learning. Efforts to improve facilities have often been constrained by high transportation costs and logistical barriers; with some contractors previously declining to take on construction work due to the difficulty of accessing the site.
“The school structures are not sufficient for our learners, and we do not have a single staff house. We are deeply grateful to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and dfcu Bank for coming to our rescue after the school’s plight was highlighted in the media,” Edson Bikorwomuhangi, the headteacher, said.
On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University and dfcu Bank officially handed over the new facilities. These include a four-classroom block equipped with 60 bench desks, a four-stance modern pit latrine, and a 10,000-litre rainwater harvesting system.
The new infrastructure is expected to significantly improve the learning environment and support better educational outcomes for the pupils.
Since 2014, Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University and alumni have contributed to communities across Uganda by constructing classrooms, providing clean water and supporting vulnerable communities.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Nelson Dumba, the Chairperson of the Scholars giveback Committee, noted that the event was not about commissioning structures, it is about celebrating impact, partnership and the power of giving back.
“As scholars we are deeply aware that we are beneficiaries of opportunity, and because we have been given a chance, we carry a responsibility to extend that opportunity to others and contribute meaningfully to the communities that shape us,” Mr. Dumba, said.
Mr. Dumba called upon the Bwera community to take ownership, protect the property, and ensure that it continues to serve generations to come.
“To the pupils of Bwera Primary, this investment is for you, use it well, take care of it and believe in your dreams. You are capable of achieving better outcomes,” Mr. Ddumba, said.
One of the central pillar of the Scholars Program is community service and giveback, grounded in the belief that leadership is best demonstrated through service to others.The Scholars Program is not only about access to education, it is about transformation and impact.
In her speech, Ms. Jolly Okumu, the Program Operation Lead of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, noted that through mentorship and structured engagement, Mastercard Foundation Scholars are encouraged to initiate community-driven projects, improve livelihoods, promote inclusion and foster sustainable development.
“Today is not just about handing over infrastructure, it is a celebration of partnership, shared purpose and our collective commitment to improving learning environment for young people. It reflects our belief that when institutions and communities come together, we can create lasting impact and open up greater possibilities for the next generation,” Ms Okumu, said.
Ms Okumu extended special appreciation to the Jane Goodall Institute for providing a 10,000 litre water tank and dfcu Bank for a financial contribution of UGX 20Million used to renovate two classrooms and purchase desks.
“As we officially hand over this project, we hope these improved facilities will provide a safe environment and a space conducive for learning. Our Scholars are not just beneficiaries, they are committed to building a stronger and more inclusive communities,” Ms. Okumu, noted.
Speaking on behalf of dfcu Bank, Ms Helena Mayanja, the Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, noted that the giveback project reflects the Bank’s commitment to elevate education, financial literacy and health in intended communities.
“The journey to the school itself reflects the realities these children face every day. Improving infrastructure in such communities is essential to ensuring that access to education translates into real learning outcomes,” she said.
dfcu Bank has various partnerships and programs targeting vulnerable and hard to reach communities which are aimed at elevating financial literacy, health and education.
Kabale District Education Officer, Mr. Moses Tumwijukye Bwengye welcomed the development, noting that previous efforts to upgrade the school had failed due to inaccessibility.
“We thank our partners for renovating this classroom, with these projects, results are going to change because now the learning is conducive. Before contractors were unable to take on the work because of the terrain. Partnerships like this are important in unlocking development in hard-to-reach communities and improving education outcomes,” Mr. Tumwijukye, said.
Parents speak out
Evidence Tumwebaza, who has a child in Primary One noted that the infrastructures are going to help them improve the school’s sanitation.
“The tank is big and I am happy that my child will now study in a conducive environment and will have clean water for drinking,” Tumwebaza, said.
Ann Turyasima, a parent and former pupil said that the project is going to help pupils to stop carrying water from a long distance.
“These pupils have been moving from down the valley to go and fetch water for the school but now everything is here. They can now concentrate in school.”
General
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University Celebrates the Last Cohort of Phase One Graduates
At the just-concluded 76th Graduation Ceremony at Makerere University, which took place between 24th and 27th February 2026, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University celebrated the graduation of the final Cohort of 10 Mastercard Foundation Scholars from the first phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (2013-2023). This brings the total number of graduates from Phase One to 974 out of the 1,032 Mastercard Foundation Scholars recruited.
Who are these 10 graduates, and what are their dreams and aspirations?
ACOLA Jackline graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Conservation Biology from the College of Natural Sciences. Her passion for nature and commitment to addressing environmental issues, including degradation, pollution, and the unsustainable exploitation of natural resources, have motivated her to pursue a career in conservation. As a conservation biologist, Jackline’s primary objective is to ensure that natural resources and the environment are preserved in their pristine state. She is dedicated to promoting sustainable resource utilisation and advocating for eco-friendly business practices. To achieve this, she plans to implement comprehensive conservation education initiatives for the general public.
AJIAMBO Eunice graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce. She is motivated and detail-oriented, with a strong academic foundation in accounting, taxation, finance, and business management. Her programme provided her with practical knowledge and analytical skills relevant to today’s dynamic commercial environment. During her academic journey, she developed a strong interest in taxation and financial compliance. She undertook coursework and case studies that enhanced her understanding of corporate taxation, value-added tax, financial reporting, and business decision-making. These experiences strengthened her ability to analyse financial information, interpret regulations, and apply commercial principles effectively. Eunice aspires to build a professional career in finance and taxation, with a focus on tax advisory, revenue administration, and corporate finance. She is passionate about ethical business practices and believes that effective financial management and tax compliance are essential for sustainable economic growth.
Dr. AKITE Flowrence graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine, a testament to resilience and support. Losing her father at a young age could have derailed her aspirations, but instead, it fueled her determination to succeed. Throughout her academic career, she received encouragement and assistance from generous individuals who recognised her outstanding academic achievements. As a Mastercard Foundation Scholar, she not only excelled academically but also actively engaged in her community, treating animals as she gained experience as a vet student. In her hometown of Dokolo, Northern Uganda, she has played a vital role in treating animals and enhancing the health and welfare of local livestock.
AUMA Barbra attained a Bachelor of Arts with Education, representing a significant milestone in her educational journey. Hailing from a modest family of eight children, she faced numerous challenges on her path to higher education, particularly after her father, a security guard, was unable to fund her university tuition following her Senior Six. Consequently, her graduation not only signifies a personal accomplishment but also embodies a remarkable triumph over adversity. Her academic excellence earned her a place in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, a pivotal opportunity that enabled her to pursue her dreams. Barbra is particularly dedicated to advocating for girls’ education.
Dr. BABALANDA Immaculate is a dedicated veterinary professional who recently completed her Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine. Throughout her studies, she maintained a strong focus on animal health, food safety, and sustainable livestock systems. Passionate about agricultural innovation, she founded the Green Grub Revolution Project, which promotes black soldier fly larvae as a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to traditional poultry feed. Her work focuses on bridging the gap between scientific research and grassroots community needs. Currently, through her Fellowship at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI-Nairobi), Immaculate is strengthening her research and leadership in one health and climate-smart livestock production. She envisions a career at the intersection of veterinary medicine and agricultural innovation, where she can scale sustainable feed alternatives and contribute to resilient food systems across Africa.
MAZAPKWE Vicky proudly earned her Bachelor of Business Administration, showcasing the remarkable outcomes of determination and resilience in overcoming adversity. Having lost both parents at a young age, pursuing higher education seemed an unattainable dream. However, with her auntie’s unwavering support, she successfully completed her primary and secondary education. Her dedication and academic excellence earned her a place in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, paving the way for her academic journey at Makerere University. Now equipped with her degree, Vicky has set her sights on becoming a successful businesswoman while nurturing her passion for storytelling as a film writer and director. She is grateful for the opportunities provided by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which not only empowered her but also inspired her to launch a project that supports orphans in her community.
NAMATOVU Noeline graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration. A daughter of a single mother, her graduation is both a joy and big relief to her mother.
After the loss of her father, she received invaluable support from a priest, a friend of her late dad.
“The priest took me to school and covered my fees until I completed Senior Six. Although he couldn’t help with university expenses, it motivated me to seek a scholarship, and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University enabled me to pursue my university education.” Namatovu shares. Initially aspiring to be a doctor, she found the sciences challenging and shifted her focus to accounting, where she plans to major and pursue professional qualifications. Her achievements have inspired young people in her community.
NAMIYINGO Christine graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with Education, majoring in Economics. Her academic journey has been challenging, particularly given her experience with bipolar disorder; however, she is grateful for the support she has received from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team at Makerere University. She is keen to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) to strengthen her expertise in Business Management and realise her aspiration of becoming an entrepreneur. Beyond her academic pursuits, Christine is deeply committed to her faith, which she considers a significant factor in her success. She is also dedicated to assisting those in need, guided by a belief that acts of generosity are rewarded. Inspired by accomplished individuals, she actively seeks mentorship to foster her personal development.
NAMONGIN Alice is a dedicated development practitioner, climate justice advocate, and youth leader from Uganda’s Karamoja region. As a Mastercard Foundation Scholar at Makerere University, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Statistics, with a focus on research and social entrepreneurship. She founded the Nurture HER Initiative, a youth-led venture that promotes climate resilience and girls’ education in Indigenous communities. She has trained over 70 Indigenous youth volunteers, supported climate education in schools, and promoted sustainable solutions. With interests in climate policy, entrepreneurship, and community solutions, Alice aspires to influence policies that prioritise Indigenous knowledge and youth participation. She enjoys mentoring young girls, public speaking, and using storytelling to drive social change.
NVIRI Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with Education. Throughout his academic career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to education, leadership, and community development. His enthusiasm for teaching and empowering his peers has motivated him to pursue a career dedicated to improving Uganda’s education system, focusing on integrating modern teaching methodologies and digital tools to enrich the learning experience. Robert aspires to become a transformative educator who inspires students to engage in critical and creative thinking. He is particularly passionate about improving access to education for under-served communities and firmly believes in education’s capacity to foster social change. In addition to his academic endeavours, Robert has actively tutored children facing social and economic barriers and organised mentorship programmes for young people, thereby reinforcing his dedication to community service.
How did the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program journey start at Makerere University? The Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, shares the highlights.
Phase One of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (2013-2023)
In 2013, Makerere University entered into a transformative partnership with the Mastercard Foundation to nurture the next generation of leaders in Africa. This initiative is designed to empower young people to drive positive change in their lives, their communities, and across the continent. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program places strong emphasis on enabling young people to shape new narratives and pursue meaningful aspirations.
Through this collaboration, Makerere University has successfully implemented two phases of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. The first phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program was implemented from 2013 to 2023. Under this phase, 1,032 Mastercard Foundation Scholars were recruited and educated at Makerere University, of which 974 graduated and are contributing in various capacities within their communities.
Phase Two of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (2023-2034)
In December 2023, the partnership was renewed, and the second phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is currently being implemented at Makerere University and will run through 2034. Building on the first phase, the University is committed to fostering inclusion and ensuring equitable access in this phase. To support this goal, specific scholarship quotas have been established for the following groups:
- Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (25% of the Scholarships)
- Young People living in Refugee-Hosting Communities (5% of the Scholarships)
- Young People from Underrepresented Ethnic Groups in Uganda (5% of the Scholarships)Young People Living with Disabilities (25% of the Scholarships)
- International Students (10% of the Scholarships)
- Other Ugandan Nationals facing financial barriers to pursuing University Education (30% of the Scholarships)
What has been the individual impact of Phase One graduates of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
To date, 974 Mastercard Foundation Scholars have graduated, proudly joining the Makerere University Alumni community.
Notably, 48% of these Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni have secured formal employment, demonstrating successful integration into the workforce. Furthermore, 18% have launched their own businesses, not only creating jobs for themselves but also generating opportunities for other young people and driving local economic transformation. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Entrepreneurship Fund (SEF) supported 46 ventures by the end of 2025, proving that start-ups are indeed a crucial solution to combating youth unemployment.
In addition, 8% of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni are gaining essential work experience through internships facilitated by Transition Partners. Meanwhile, 5% are pursuing further study in Master’s, Postgraduate Diploma, and PhD programmes, reflecting their commitment to personal and professional growth.
In total, 72% of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni are actively engaged in productive employment or entrepreneurship. This data clearly shows that investing in young people generates tangible economic and social returns.
The remaining 12% are part of other young people in Uganda with university degrees who are facing challenges entering the world of work. These young people need support and systems to translate their career navigation journeys into meaningful engagements.
What has been the impact on the Communities?
Communities have greatly benefited from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars’ Give Back initiatives, including the establishment of safe water sources, the construction of classrooms, and the planting of trees for environmental protection. These efforts reflect a commitment to empowering young people, positively impacting communities, and showcasing the potential of African universities for a sustainable future. Mastercard Foundation Scholars and Alumni implement one impact project each year on the Annual Day of Service, which allows them to showcase skills in organisation, mobilisation, and teamwork. Since 2014, Mastercard Foundation Scholars have implemented various community projects, as highlighted below.
- In 2023, Achukudu Primary School in Napak District made significant strides by constructing a two-room classroom block, complete with desks and benches, enhancing the learning environment for its students.
- In 2022, St. Katherine Primary School in Agago District contributed to its community by building a two-room classroom block alongside a new pit latrine, improving facilities for both students and staff.
- In 2021, the Bulamwaki community in Iganga District saw valuable initiatives: a borehole was completed, and 56 jerrycans were donated to local women, promoting access to clean water.
- In 2020, Mastercard Foundation Scholars made a positive impact in the Kyangwali Refugee Settlement in Kikuube by providing essential COVID-19 protective materials, distributing sanitary pads, promoting tree planting, and offering career guidance to the community.
- In 2019, efforts at Salama School for the Blind in Mukono included planting trees and erecting a protective fence around the school, creating a safer and more welcoming environment for students. At Kibaale Primary School in Mityana, activities included general cleaning, tree planting, and the completion of a two-room teacher’s residence.
- In 2018, Mastercard Foundation Scholars donated learning materials, nappies, and food items, supported feeding activities and carried out general cleaning at Kampala School for children living with disabilities.in Kampala.
- In 2017, Mastercard Foundation Scholars constructed and renovated classroom blocks, dug a rubbish pit, and cleared a community well at Muzinda Primary School, and raised awareness on hygiene at Mbuya Gizaza Community in Nakawa. Additionally, they built a wooden classroom, renovated a latrine, cleaned the area, and planted trees at St. Charles Lwanga Primary School in Mukono.
- In 2015, Mastercard Foundation Scholars planted trees, undertook general cleaning, painted the buildings, and carried out electrical installations and repairs at Kireka School of Children with Special Needs in Kampala.
- In 2014, the first cohort of Mastercard Foundation Scholars dug a rubbish pit and a borehole trench, washed children’s clothes, supported feeding activities, carried out general cleaning and compound slashing, and donated foodstuffs, nappies and laundry detergents to Mercy Child Care Centre in Wakiso.
Giving back to the community has been, and continues to be, a core aspect of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which fosters a culture of giving through individual and group initiatives. As Nelson Mandela rightly puts it:
“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead”. He also championed community service, noting that “we can all do more to reach out, take care, and serve the well-being of others”.
Bernard Buteera is the Principal Communications and Public Relations Officer of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme at Makerere University.
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