Connect with us

General

MU-JHU Employment Opportunity: Five (5) Positions

Published

on

MU-JHU RESEARCH COLLABORATION (MU-JHU CARE LTD), a Kampala based equal opportunities HIV/AIDS, TB and related clinical and implementation science research Organization with more than 400 employees is seeking interested, committed and reliable professionals with the described qualification to apply for the full-time position below at MU-JHU.

 MU-JHU anticipates to implement Global Fund HIV/TB activities through a project targeting Adolescent Girls and Young Women (AGYW) in the districts of Pader, Kitgum and Dokolo, as a sub-recipient of the Global Fund grant (UGA-C-TASO) under The AIDS Support Organisation (TASO) as the prime recipient. MU-JHU therefore seeks suitable candidates to fill the following positions in the project tenable in the said districts of implementation, to be contracted on an annual basis, subject to availability of funds. The successful candidates will be based in the districts mentioned above.

  1. Position: Project Coordinator
    • Duty Station: (Pader District)
    • Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)

Description and purpose:

The Project Coordinator will provide technical leadership to the project staff implementing activities in areas of operation and ensure timely reporting and accountability for all project activities in all districts of implementation.

Required qualifications and profile:

The applicant must hold a bachelor’s degree in a health-related field, Social Sciences, Social works and Social Administration and any other related field. A Post Graduate qualification in Public Health, Project Planning and Management or related fields is an added advantage.   The suitable candidate should have at least 5 years of working experience in SRHR, HIV and TB community work. Additional experience in health systems strengthening and programming in donor-funded projects, particularly in rural settings in a similar project environment, is highly preferred. The person should have high integrity and ethical standards, ooutstanding communication, presentation, and facilitation skills, advanced analytical and report writing capabilities, ccollaborative mindset with a positive attitude towards teamwork, aability to handle multiple tasks, work under pressure, and meet tight deadlines and sstrong problem-solving skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information and take initiative. Valid permit to drive and ride a motorcycle will be an added advantage.

The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Director Strategic Planning & Partnerships and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

Project management and Co-ordination

  • Provide oversight and leadership of the project to ensure strategic alignment, effective management, and successful achievement of project objectives.
  • Planning project implementation including preparation of project workplans and budgets.
  • Oversee and control project budget execution as per budget allocations.
  • Actively support project teams to manage competing work priorities.
  • Coordinating project staff, cluster/district and other key partners to achieve project goals.
  • Supervise staff within jurisdiction, while mentoring them to deliver project results and
    deliverables.
  • Provide technical support and monitor project implementation to ensure compliance with donor requirements, approved budget and work Plans.
  • Ensure proper utilization and accountability to project resources.
  • Build sound and mutually respectable relations with District leaders, Communities and other project stakeholders.
  • Support effective monitoring of donor grants allocated to project, partners, stakeholders, ensuring appropriate reporting and documentation is in place.
  • Develop impactful stories demonstrating the project’s accomplishments and results.
  • Develop and enforce protocols for storage and use of information.
  • Organize and provide support for project meetings and events.
  • Ensuring proper record keeping and organisation of project files, registers and logs.
  • Actively participate in resource mobilization and other strategically beneficial activities resulting from or connected to your technical position on this project.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

  • Working closely with the M&E Coordinator to ensure proper documentation of project data in compliance with MoH requirements and donor reporting.
  • Prepare and ensure timely submission of activity progress reports on a weekly, monthly and quarterly basis and whenever required by the project management team. 
  • Prepare timely periodic progress reports as determined by the Director or SMT for submission to donors and MU-JHU board.
  • Perform any other duties and responsibilities that may be assigned by the immediate
    supervisor.

  1. Position: Monitoring and Evaluation Coordinator 
    • Duty Station: (Pader District)
    • Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)

Description and purpose:

The M&E coordinator will provide overall M&E technical leadership and oversight to ensure that a robust and functional M&E system is in place; and is utilized to support the implementation of this project. 

Required qualifications and profile:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Population and demography, Quantitative Economics or a related field. A Post Graduate qualification in Monitoring and Evaluation is an added advantage. At least five years’ experience in leading M&E work in health or livelihood donor-funded projects, preferably in a similar project environment. Knowledge of HIV/TB, AGYW programming, and Health Systems Strengthening frameworks is an added advantage. Data centred mindset and result oriented personality is highly preferred. Relevant knowledge in databases and statistical software (such as STATA, R) and experience with IT tools for M&E is highly desirable. Relevant knowledge of data quality control and assurance processes is required. Valid permit to drive and ride a motorcycle will be an added advantage. The person should have Excellent computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft office applications including Office, Excel and PowerPoint. Knowledge and skills in data visualization and presentation is an added advantage. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly, coherently and correctly, and facilitate engaging discussions and ability to prioritize workload and meet deadlines

The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Project Coordinator and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

  1. Develop M&E tools, frameworks, and methodologies to measure project progress and output.
  2. Regularly review and monitor the implementation of M&E systems, guidelines, and protocols to ensure effective tracking and measurement of project performance.
  3. Oversee and ensure the execution of M&E activities including data qualities assurance exercises and support supervisions for the data functions in all 3 districts.
  4. Participate in the development, revision and update of weekly, monthly, quarterly work plans that address project objectives and facilitate timely implementation of project activities.
  5. Ensure data quality, utilization, and dissemination to inform project implementation and decision-making.
  6. Lead/be a key contributor in the development and submission of technical reports according to the predetermined schedule by the donors and generate additional reports as required to facilitate informed decision-making.
  7. Coordinate all data officers in the project districts to adhere to operational reporting guidelines and achieve timely data entry and reporting according to established schedules.
  8. Facilitate data-driven decision-making for the project and its stakeholders, identify and address areas for improvement, ensuring proactive adjustments that maximize project performance and achieve project goals.
  9. Provide technical guidance and support to project staff to ensure data-driven programming and enhance M&E capacity including trainings and mentorship of data collection teams.
  10. Work with project coordinator to track implementation of project activities according the workplans.
  11. Provide timely and accurate responses to data requests and queries from donors, partners, and MUJHU management.
  12. Actively participate in resource mobilization and other strategically beneficial activities resulting from or connected to your technical position on this project.
  13. Perform any other duties and responsibilities assigned by project management to ensure smooth project implementation.

  1. Position: Project Officer (3 positions)
    • Duty Station: (Pader, Kitgum, Dokolo districts)
    • Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)

Description and purpose:

The Project Officer will be responsible for planning, coordination and implementation of UGA-C-TASO project activities within the district and be the technical lead in the supported district.

Required qualifications and profile:

Bachelor’s Degree in either Public health, Social Sciences, Social work and Social Administration, Community Psychology, Adult and Community education and other humanities or health related discipline. Clinical officers with this experience may also apply. At least three years’ work experience implementing AGYW or DREAMS Initiative, preferably in a similar project environment. Valid permit to ride a motorcycle is essential.

The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Project Coordinator and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

  1. Take lead in planning, coordination and implementation of activities required under this project, including modalities of community and district owned implementation.
  2. Provide technical assistance to district, partner and community stakeholders during implementation of this project through planning, mobilizing and on-site mentorship activities based on national guidelines, protocols and the project’s implementation guidelines.
  3. Work closely with the project M&E Officer and Project Coordinator to ensure regular updates of the project activity tracker, tools, systems and databases.
  4. Ensure timely reporting and documentation of results from the project implementation in collaboration with M&E team, ensuring accuracy of data reported and supported narratives and evidence monthly and quarterly reporting cycles.
  5. Foster smooth and effective collaboration with partners at district and sub-county level implementing activities funded by this project.
  6. Strengthen referral and linkages between community service delivery points and health facilities for AGYW and their partners for all services not directly provided by this project.
  7. Support establishment of District Technical Working Groups and Community Quality
    Improvement teams to support implementation of AGYW risk reduction plans in identified communities.
  8. Strengthen partner coordination in the districts through participating in meetings, joint field support supervision and activity implementation.
  9. Develop up-front activity trip plans, budgets, procurements and implementation plans on weekly, monthly and quarterly basis.
  10. Represent the project in Districts meetings including extended DHT meetings,
    comprehensive partners’ meetings when invited and district technical working
    group activities where MU-JHU is required to participate.

  1. Position: Data Officer (3 positions)
    • Duty Station: (Pader, Kitgum, Dokolo districts)
    • Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)

Description and purpose:

To plan and monitor the implementation of UGA-C-TASO project activities in the district and conduct data entry, cleaning, and documentation of implemented activities and outputs using appropriate data tools and ensure timely availability of quality data for reporting. 

Required qualifications and profile:

Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Population and demography, Quantitative Economics or a related data science field. At least two years’ experience in M&E work in health or livelihood donor-funded projects, preferably in a similar project environment. Valid permit to ride a motorcycle is essential.

The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Monitoring & Evaluation Coordinator and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

  1. Maintain firm and updated knowledge of all data tools, systems and requirements under the project.
  2. Conduct timely and accurate data entry for implemented activities.
  3. Maintain up-to-date project databases of all activities implemented and routinely share with the M&E Coordinator all entered data sets for merging and analysis.
  4. Ensure availability of updated data capture and reporting tools at the community for effective tracking of services provided to AGYW/ABYM and other targeted populations.
  5. Support program teams to analyse and interpret data.
  6. Participate in the development of weekly, monthly, quarterly work plans.
  7. Monitor and track the implementation of project activities and support Project Officer to develop catch-up plans in case of unmet targets.
  8. Support the Project Officer in planning, mobilization and implementation of project activities and tracking achievements of targets.
  9. Monitor the cluster PMP and give progress updates on a weekly, monthly, and quarterly basis.
  10. Plan, organize and conduct periodic performance review meetings for sharing progress with stakeholders.
  11. Conduct data validation, to ensure correct and consistent data is reported in periodic reports.
  12. Ensure that all the planned and approved activities are implemented within the agreed-upon time frame.
  13. Support district-based stakeholders, including statistician, facility and partner data staff to accurately and timely capture, enter, submit and report on respective data from project activities.

  1. Position: Communications Officer  
    • Duty Station: MU-JHU Care Ltd
    • Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)

Description and purpose:

To support the Communications Specialist in content development, digital marketing, social media management and event management support.

Required qualifications and profile:

Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications, Marketing, Branding, Journalism, or Public Relations. At least 2 years relevant experience preferably in a similar position in an NGO or media house. Understand research activities and achievements to communicate effectively. Copy writing and copy-editing skills. Knowledge of photography concepts like exposure, composition, focus and lighting. Familiarity with different types of cameras (Canon/ Nikon DSLRs and smartphones) and accessories (lenses, tripods, flashes). Basic knowledge of photo editing software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom) to enhance and retouch images is helpful. This includes adjusting exposure, color balance, and cropping. Ability to post content and gather analytics on MU-JHU social media pages on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. Have strong organizational skills to manage event logistics and coordinate speakers and presenters. Possess excellent interpersonal skills to provide on-site support and address event issues.

The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Communications Specialist with functional responsibilities to the Director Strategic Planning & Partnerships and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

Content Development:

  • Produce Various Types of Content: The officer must create articles, social media posts, and presentations that effectively communicate the site’s research activities and achievements. This requires a deep understanding of the subject matter and the ability to tailor content for different audiences and platforms.
  • Editing and Proofreading: Ensuring accuracy, consistency, and adherence to brand guidelines is crucial. The officer must have strong attention to detail and a keen eye for errors.
  • Photography: Using photography to capture site activities and research milestones requires both technical skills and creative vision. The officer must be able to tell a visual story that highlights the site’s work and achievements.

Digital Marketing:

  • Social Media Management: Managing the site’s social media accounts involves engaging with followers, sharing updates and research findings, and promoting events and initiatives. The officer must have a deep understanding of social media platforms and trends.
  • Online Reputation Management: Monitoring online conversations and reviews and responding promptly and appropriately is critical for maintaining a positive reputation. The officer must be adept at handling public relations and crisis communications.
  • Analytics: Monitoring and analysing the performance of digital marketing efforts using analytics tools requires strong analytical skills. The officer must be able to interpret data to assess effectiveness and inform future strategies.

Event Management Support:

  • Event Concept Development: Assisting in the development of event concepts, themes, and objectives requires creativity and strategic thinking. The officer must align event plans with the site’s communication strategy and goals.
  • Materials Creation: Creating event materials such as invitations, programs, signage, and presentations requires design skills and the ability to effectively communicate key messages.
  • On-Site Support: Providing on-site support during events, including managing registration, coordinating speakers and presenters, and addressing issues, requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills.

Applications with complete C.Vs, including 3 referees and their full address or contact telephone number, copies of academic certificates and testimonials, should be addressed to the MU-JHU Director Human Resources, through the reception on first floor, MU-JHU 1 Building or sent by email (application should not exceed 15MBs) to HR@mujhu.org  – not later than 12th August 2024 by 5.30pm. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.

Mak Editor

General

Are We Giving Enough Attention to the People Around Us Who Quietly Influence Lives Every Day?

Published

on

Sylas Ruhweza and Marion Apio at one of the Girls Alive Uganda (GAU) outreaches.

By Marion Apio

On March 21, 2026, I felt a strong urge to reconnect with a close colleague and passionate leader, Owekitinisa Sylas Ruhweza Atwooki. We had not spoken since I moved to the United States to pursue my dream of becoming a journalist. The following day, I learned that he had been quietly undergoing treatment in and out of the hospital. True to his character, he had chosen to keep his condition private. I was shocked and saddened, wishing I had known earlier so I could offer support.

At first, reports from family and friends were encouraging. He had been diagnosed with malaria and low blood platelet counts and was receiving treatment. Respecting his wish for confidentiality, members of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars and Alumni community at Makerere University rallied discreetly around him.

An artistic impression of Sylas Ruhweza.
An artistic impression of Sylas Ruhweza.

However, on April 29, his condition worsened. He was transferred between medical facilities and underwent extensive tests, including a biopsy, as doctors searched for answers. Sadly, on May 29, Sylas passed away.

His death sparked an extraordinary outpouring of love and solidarity. Friends, colleagues, and former scholars mobilised to support his family, settle medical expenses, organise virtual vigils, and plan a dignified farewell. Hundreds gathered at St. Augustine Chapel to pay their respects. Within three days, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars and Alumni community raised approximately UGX 11 million, a testament to Sylas’ impact on countless lives.

Sylas Ruhweza addressing his fellow alumni on 5th April 2025.
Sylas Ruhweza addressing his fellow alumni on 5th April 2025.

In the days that followed, I found myself wrestling with difficult questions. In a world where we spend so much time following people online, are we paying enough attention to those quietly transforming lives around us? Why do we invest so much emotional energy in distant personalities while overlooking the people God has placed right in front of us?

Sylas lived with humility and served with grace. His death left more than 1,500 Mastercard Foundation scholars and alumni grieving, alongside many others around the world who knew him. Yet his passing also exposed a contradiction in modern life.

We live in an age of unprecedented connectivity. Uganda has millions of internet users and WhatsApp subscribers, while globally, people spend hours each day on social media. We have more tools than ever to stay connected, yet many of us are becoming increasingly disconnected from the people who matter most.

Selfie time: Marion Apio and Sylas Ruhweza.
Selfie time: Marion Apio and Sylas Ruhweza.

Sylas resisted this trend. Through mentorship, service, and community-building, he remained deeply present in others’ lives. While many people retreat into individual pursuits, he consistently chose connection.

This challenge is especially relevant for Mastercard Foundation scholars and alumni. Every year, young Africans leave home to pursue education and professional opportunities abroad. Distance, time zones, visa restrictions, and rising travel costs make it difficult to maintain relationships and remain actively involved in the communities that helped shape us.

For Sylas, the answer was simple: show up. Celebrate others. Offer support. Stay connected.

Sylas with some of the Girls Alive Uganda (GAU) beneficiaries.
Sylas with some of the Girls Alive Uganda (GAU) beneficiaries.

He never allowed geographical or personal barriers to become excuses for disengagement. Even while facing his own struggles, he invested in others. He embodied the values the Mastercard Foundation seeks to cultivate—ethical leadership, service, and community empowerment.

Sylas did not wait for a perfect platform to create change. He simply served where he was. He helped build bridges between education, culture, and professional development while remaining grounded in his values. He dreamed of creating a stronger alumni ecosystem and brought both passion and compassion to every initiative he touched.

Since his passing, social media has been filled with memories of his infectious smile and unwavering commitment to others. Those tributes reveal an important truth: people gave generously because Sylas had first given himself generously to them. People from different backgrounds, generations, and communities showed up because he had spent his life showing up for them. His legacy now challenges all of us.

Sylas with friends at a Birthday Celebration.
Sylas with friends at a Birthday Celebration.

The greatest tribute we can offer is not simply to mourn his loss but to continue his work. That means supporting the causes he cared about, helping the children whose education he championed, strengthening alumni networks, and pursuing the dreams we discussed with him.

The tragedy of modern life is not that we follow people online. It is that too often our attention to distant lives comes at the expense of meaningful relationships nearby. Yet strong relationships are as essential to our well-being as physical health.

As Ugandans, we take pride in our faith, culture, and sense of community. We contribute to fundraisers, attend ceremonies, and support family members in times of need. But increasingly, genuine connection is being replaced by passive digital interaction. Families and communities cannot thrive on likes, retweets, and emojis alone.

They require presence—phone calls, visits, conversations, and the willingness to notice when someone is struggling.

Sylas Ruhweza with friends at the Third Edition of the MakRun in 2019.
Sylas with friends at the Third Edition of the MakRun in 2019.

Before spending another hour immersed in the lives of strangers online, look around. Call the friend you have not spoken to in years. Check on a family member. Reach out to a colleague who seems withdrawn. Communities are not built by algorithms or celebrities. They are built by ordinary people who choose, day after day, to care for those within their reach.

Uganda needs more people like Sylas. At just 32 years old, he achieved what many spend a lifetime striving for. He served as Minister of Information in the Toro Kingdom and as President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Association in Uganda. More importantly, he dedicated himself to serving others.

While his death is deeply painful, his life remains a powerful example of how we should live. My prayers and condolences go to his family, friends, and the entire Mastercard Foundation Scholars and Alumni community.

Rest in perfect peace, Owek. Sylas Ruhweza Atwooki.

The author is a Mastercard Foundation Alumna from Makerere University and the University of California, Berkeley. She is a journalist based in Southern California and the CEO of the Debunk Media Initiative.

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

Freshers’ Joining Instructions 2026/2027

Published

on

Main Building in the background. Photo taken on 1st April 2026

It brings me great joy to welcome you to Makerere University.

First Year students (Freshers) are by tradition given an “acclimatization” period of
one week which is referred to as the “Orientation Week”. The Freshers report on
Campus one week earlier than the Continuing students and during this week they
are introduced to the key facilities as well as other important aspects of life at the
University.
Schedule of Semesters for 2026/2027 Academic Year
Semester One
Saturday 8th August, 2026 to Saturday 5th December, 2026 (17 Weeks)
Semester Two
Saturday 16th January, 2027 to Saturday 15th May, 2027 (17 Weeks)
Orientation Week
Saturday 1st August, 2026 – Friday 7th August, 2026
During the Orientation week, arrangements are made to enable the Freshers meet
and be addressed by Key Officers, Wardens and Student Leaders who welcome the
students.

Arrangements are also made to enable the Freshers acquaint themselves with such
key facilities at the University like the Library, University Hospital, Games and
Recreation Facilities.etc.

Freshers are expected to take advantage of the week to survey and acquaint
themselves with the general Campus lay out. Another major activity during the
Orientation Week is Registration.

All Freshers must ensure that they are registered with their respective Colleges/Schools/ Departments/Halls/University Hospital.

Saturday 1st August, 2026
Resident Freshers report to their respective halls of residence or private hostels by
5.00 p.m. It is the responsibility of each student to make his/her own travel
arrangements to the University or private hostel.

Monday 3rd August, 2026
All freshers shall report to the Freedom Square for a meeting (Central orientation
program) with the University officials at 9:00am.

College Orientation
Tuesday 4th – Friday 7th August, 2026 College orientation programs will follow
during the orientation week. College Principals and Registrars will issue the
orientation programs for their colleges.
Lectures will begin on Monday 10th August, 2026.

Registration
For a candidate to be considered a bonafide student of the University, he/she must
be registered. Registration is a mandatory requirement of the University which
must be done within the first two (2) weeks from the beginning of the semester by
every student. Privately sponsored students will pick their original admission
letters after payment of 60% tuition and all functional fees from their respective
colleges.
Registration will commence on Monday 10th August, 2026 starting at 9.00 a.m.
each day at the respective Schools.
Ensure that you complete all the required registration formalities within the
prescribed time in order to avoid disappointments later. College/School Registrars
will provide registration programs.

Registration Requirements
Admission to Makerere University is a provisional offer made on the basis of the
statement of your qualifications as presented on your application form. The offer is
subject to verification of your academic documents and payment of university fees.
For registration purposes, all first-year students MUST produce their original
documents for verification.

Government sponsored students shall pay shs.155,404/= functional fees to
Makerere University.

Privately sponsored students shall pay 834,505/= and 1,489,785/= for Ugandans
and International candidates respectively for semester one and 132,250/= for
semester two of year 1.

Full admission letters for Government sponsored students should be picked from
the respective Colleges/Schools beginning Monday 6th July 2026.
The fees structure for privately sponsored students is attached to their provisional
admission letters that should be down loaded from their ACMIS portal.
Students in the affiliated Institutions should pay fees indicated by their respective
Institutions.
Fresher’s joining instructions concerning reporting, fees payment, academic
policies and any important information from the different university units can be
viewed from the Academic Registrar’s Department notice boards and University
websites www.mak.ac.ug
All freshers MUST have laptop computers as one of the essential tools for study
purposes for their programmes.

Other Fees
a) National Council for Higher Education fee (Per Year)-Shs.20,000/=
(Payable to the National Council for Higher Education Account in Stanbic Bank).

b) UNSA Subscription fee (per year) – Shs. 2,000/= (payable to Stanbic Bank,
City Branch, A/C 0140007248501).

Change of Programmes/Subjects
(a) Change of Programmes
Since selection for specific programmes was made according to each candidate’s
performance and order of programme choices, taking into account the available
subject combinations and time-table limitations, there is normally little need to
change the programme or subjects. However, some places become vacant when
some of the students admitted do not take up the offers. Such places are filled
through the change of programmes/subjects.

Students who wish to change programmes first of all register according to the
registration time-table for the programmes and subjects (where applicable) to
which originally have been admitted. Each student who may wish to change
his/her programme/ subject combination is required to pay an application fee of
Shs.6,000/= plus the service fee and bank charges to banks used by Uganda
Revenue Authority.

(b) Change of Subjects
Students in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Natural
Sciences or the College of Education and Extemal Studies may wish to change their
subjects.

Students should be aware that changing one subject may result in a change of
College. Before students apply to change their programmes, Colleges and Subjects,
they are encouraged to seek advice on the cut-off point(s) for programmes,
requirements for specific subjects and possible subject combinations.

Change of programme/Subjects will be done online on payment of an application
fee of Shs. Six thousand (6000/=) plus the service fee and bank charges to banks
used by Uganda Revenue Authority (URA).

Students are notified and warned that change of programme or transferring to
another subject combination or College without proper authority will be liable to
discontinuation from the University.

A student who has been permitted to change his/her programme or subject(s) will
be issued with a letter stating so, and on receipt of such a letter that student should
complete the ACCEPTANCE part and return a copy of each to the Undergraduate
Admissions and Records Office, the former College j School and the new
College/School.

The change of programme /subjects will be done online from Monday 3rd August,
2026 to Friday 14th August, 2026.

N.B: It is advisable that only those students who meet the cut-off points for the
desired programme/subjects may apply.

Buyinza Mukadasi
Academic Registrar

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

Hundreds attend Sylas Ruhweza’s Requiem Mass

Published

on

Sylas Ruhweza's casket lies in the chapel. Requiem Mass in respect of Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, the first President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Community at Makerere University, 30th May 2026, St. Augustine Chapel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Hundreds of mourners gathered at St. Augustine Chapel, Makerere University on May 30, 2026 to pray for the soul of Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, the first President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Community at Makerere University.

The requiem mass was filled with emotional tributes celebrating Ruhweza’s life of service, leadership and dedication to community causes. Ruhweza passed away on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Mildmay Uganda Hospital.

Speaker after speaker described him as a humble and visionary leader who was passionate about uplifting others and deeply committed to excellence.

Rt. Hon. Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki addresses mourners. Requiem Mass in respect of Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, the first President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Community at Makerere University, 30th May 2026, St. Augustine Chapel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Rt. Hon. Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki addresses mourners.

“We thank God for the life of Sylas, for the years he granted him among us, and for the impact he made on countless lives. He carried himself with humility and grace, and wherever he went, he built friendships, inspired confidence, and left people better than he found them,” Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, said during the Mass.

Mr. Rwomiire urged mourners to honour Ruhweza’s legacy by embracing the values he stood for, including integrity, compassion, hard work, service to community, and his unwavering love for Tooro Kingdom.

The main celebrant, Rev. Fr. Charles Lwanga Makoboza, echoed the message in his homily, reminding Christians to remain rooted in Jesus Christ throughout their lives.

Rev. Fr. Charles Lwanga Makoboza. Requiem Mass in respect of Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, the first President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Community at Makerere University, 30th May 2026, St. Augustine Chapel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Rev. Fr. Charles Lwanga Makoboza.

 “Sylas has gone to be with God, in a place where there is no pain, missed calls, struggle, corruption, betrayal, jealousy and tears. He is in a place with absolute peace. So, in life, never be the cause of someone’s tears, and if you do, seek reconciliation,” Fr. Lwanga, said.

Fr. Lwanga also reminded mourners that what Ruhweza needs most are prayers, not wreaths.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Ms. Grace Kabasita, Ruhweza’s maternal aunt, described him as a loving and dedicated young man whose life touched many people.

Ms. Grace Kabasita. Requiem Mass in respect of Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, the first President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Community at Makerere University, 30th May 2026, St. Augustine Chapel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Grace Kabasita.

“Sylas was a counsellor, teacher, and a brilliant, loveable young man who fitted into every society. His life was marked by service, friendship, dedication, and commitment to the wellbeing of others and his culture,” she said.

Addressing mourners, Prof Justine Namaalwa, the Coordinator of the Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University, noted that though Sylas’s life was cut short, he leaves behind a lasting legacy of service, leadership and impact on the communities he served.

 “Sylas, you have gone too soon. But it is well with our souls. May your legacy of Transformative Leadership live on,” Prof. Namaalwa, said.

R-L: Prof. Prof. Justine Namaalwa, a mourner, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga and Ms. Jolly Okumu. Requiem Mass in respect of Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, the first President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Community at Makerere University, 30th May 2026, St. Augustine Chapel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
R-L: Prof. Prof. Justine Namaalwa, a mourner, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga and Ms. Jolly Okumu.

She thanked the Mastercard Foundation for supporting his education through BRAC Uganda, supporting his university education through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, and nurturing his leadership journey through the Youth Advisory Board.

Ruhweeza at glance

Born on 19th July 1994 to the late Mr. Paul Tinkasimire Paul Adyeeri and Ms. Ategeka Margret Abwooli of Bunyangabu District.

The ninth born of eleven children attended Kaboyo Primary School for his Primary Education, and later joined Fort Portal Secondary School where he sat for his O-Level. He then proceeded to A-Level at Hannah International School.

Sylas Ruhweza, then Team Lead, AlumNet Foundation addressing his fellow alumni on 5th April 2025. Requiem Mass in respect of Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, the first President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Community at Makerere University, 30th May 2026, St. Augustine Chapel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Sylas Ruhweza, then Team Lead, AlumNet Foundation addressing his fellow alumni on 5th April 2025.

He joined Makerere University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production in 2022, supported by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme at Makerere University.

At the time of his passing, he was pursuing a Master’s degree at Victoria University.

Leadership, Service and Professional Contributions

Mr. Ruhweza served as Chairperson of the Mastercard Foundation Alumni Network at BRAC from 2020 to 2022, demonstrating transformative leadership and commitment to social change.

Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga with scholars that attended the Mass. Requiem Mass in respect of Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, the first President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Community at Makerere University, 30th May 2026, St. Augustine Chapel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga with scholars that attended the Mass.

He later became the President of the Makerere AlumNet Foundation, an umbrella organization that brings together the Scholars Makerere Alumni chapter.

He worked as an eLearning Support Officer at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) under the e-learning initiative at Makerere University.

He was a member of the Steering Committee of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, representing the Scholars Makerere Alumni chapter.

Scholars mourning Sylas. Requiem Mass in respect of Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, the first President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Community at Makerere University, 30th May 2026, St. Augustine Chapel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Scholars mourning Sylas.

At the time of his passing, he was serving as the Minister of Information in the Tooro Kingdom, Strategy and Engagement Lead for the Mastercard Foundation Alumni Network-Uganda Chapter, and Programme Associate at the Africa Climate Collaborative, one of the Mastercard Foundation initiatives at Makerere University.

Legacy

Ruhweza is remembered for his dedication to education, leadership, mentorship, and community service. He passionately championed youth empowerment, collaboration, and social responsibility.

The Requiem Mass in progress. Requiem Mass in respect of Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, the first President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Community at Makerere University, 30th May 2026, St. Augustine Chapel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Requiem Mass in progress.

His life reflected the transformative power of education, servant leadership, and a commitment to uplifting others.

May Sylas’s soul rest in eternal peace.

Rt. Hon. Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki with mourners that included Deputy Lord Mayor Emeritus Nyanjura Doreen. Requiem Mass in respect of Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, the first President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Community at Makerere University, 30th May 2026, St. Augustine Chapel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Rt. Hon. Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki with mourners that included Deputy Lord Mayor Emeritus Nyanjura Doreen.

Carol Kasujja
Carol Kasujja Adii

Continue Reading

Trending