General
Avoid distractions, fresh graduates urged
During the Makerere University Convocation Graduation luncheon, Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo, a Senior Presidential Advisor on Special duties, together with Makerere University Management members set the process for mentoring the next generation of leaders in the business, public and private sectors.
Delivering a keynote speech, Mr. Rwabwogo urged the graduates to avoid being distracted when executing missions. He emphasized to them the need to embody the values of responsibility, discipline and integrity as they enter the world of work.
He cautioned them on the friends and networks that they associate with, when he said: “You must be responsible for your behaviour. I advise you to immediately drop friends who seek to extend childish behaviours into adulthood, those who don’t help you on the journey to maturity. Have personal integrity as you transition to adulthood,” he said.
He made the remarks on Wednesday 15th January 2025 while addressing fresh graduates from Makerere University Business School (MUBS) during the Convocation Staff and Alumni luncheon organized in honour of the best talent during the 75th Graduation Ceremony.
Mr. Rwabwogo who is also the Chairperson of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID) emphasized entrepreneurship as the engine to Uganda’s development as well as the solution to the unemployment question.
“My wish is that if everyone could be an entrepreneur. It is entrepreneurship that will spur Uganda’s development. Entrepreneurship gives you the ability to innovate, it is about creativity and ingenuity that leads to business enterprises and production of products”, he said.
In terms of personal growth, Mr. Rwabwogo advised the graduates to get out of the crowds, and dedicate time, to exactly understand who they are. He explained the need for each graduate to have a deeper reflection towards their calling and purpose in life including understanding what makes one unique.
To underscore the value of solitude and its ability to stimulate thinking and innovativeness, Rwabwogo shared an example of Albert Einstein who is generally considered the most influential physicist of the 20th century.
One of Einstein’s quotes states: “I live in that solitude which is painful in youth, but delicious in the years of maturity.”
Noting that the graduates were transitioning into adulthood, Rwabwogo pointed out that solitude, would not only provide graduates with an opportunity to design and innovate, but also empower them to ask the right questions about life.
“Seek silence. Find out who you are. We are always surrounded by crowds, which are deceptive. If you are below 30 years of age, entertainment and social media can be a source of mental and emotional containment. In crowds, we can get lost. In solitude, you learn to ask the right questions about life. Solitude teaches you to handle rejections and learn how to deal with bullies at work.”
Making reference to the Holy bible, Mr. Rwabwogo recounted the story of Amnon, a character whose poor choices led to dire consequences, highlighting the dangers of associating with the wrong company.
While emphasizing the importance of personal integrity and leadership skills, Mr. Rwabwogo used the story of Joseph a bible character known for resilience and responsibility, to remind graduates the importance of maintaining discipline and a strong work ethic, even in challenging circumstances.
He encouraged the graduates to adopt Joseph’s mindset, emphasizing that success is often a product of perseverance and a commitment to one’s values.
“I am so happy with the work of the Makerere University Convocation team to give the alumni a home. We are going to use this network for planning and executing good ideas to ensure Makerere University continues to nurture generations,” Rwabwogo said.
Responding to a question from the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe on how Makerere University could partner with him to improve exports, Mr. Rwabwogo revealed his readiness to tap into research and development projects, and work with the University to commercialise the research outputs into products. He equally appealed to the University leadership, staff and the Convocation to popularize entrepreneurship throughout the University.
In his speech, the Vice Chancellor commended MUBS for its admirable growth from 3,000 students in 1993 when the School moved to its Nakawa premises to nearly 20,000 students today.
“MUBS has grown both in quality and quantity. As Makerere, we are proud of MUBS as the best school of business on the continent,” Prof. Nawangwe said.
Addressing guests, Engineer Isaac Mubarak Ngobya, the Chairperson of MUBS Council, noted that academicians must be promoted and awarded in this Country. He explained that most Universities do not advertise jobs for teaching assistants because the opportunity is always given to the best students who have excelled and attained First Class degrees-Honours Division.
“We are not being rebellious, but we always pick from the best, nurture them until they become Professors. Academicians must be identified, nurtured, promoted and awarded,” Eng. Ngobya, said.
He called upon academicians to also carry out research which is applicable to the development challenges in Uganda.
During the graduation, George Mugabi Turyamureeba, the Chairperson of the Convocation called upon the University management to retain the best brains by giving them scholarship opportunities to upgrade to Master’s level and jobs as teaching assistants.
Mr. Turyamureeba explained that once the idea is adopted, it will spur academic competition, where many will read hard to excel with First Class degrees.
“Once academically brilliant students are offered scholarships to attain Masters’ degrees, it will also contribute to improving the quality of researchers in the Country,” Mr. Turyamureeba, said.
During the graduation, Abdul Latif Bagoole received the Convocation Award as the Best Student in the Humanities disciplines on the third day of Makerere University‘s 75th Graduation Ceremony-Wednesday 15th January 2025.
His outstanding academic achievement was marked by an impressive CGPA of 4.97 in the Bachelor of Leisure and Hospitality Management.
During the function, MUBS Principal, Prof. Moses Muhwezi, implored all the First-class students to always uphold the good values and principles that guided their excellence in academics as they join the world outside the university.
First class students speak out
Francis Mwesigwa, who graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) score of 4.78 could not believe that he was in the same tent with some of Uganda’s celebrated personalities.
“I am overwhelmed, I never knew that I would ever sit with some of the people in this tent. I have been watching most of them on Television. This is a great reward for the hard work that I put into my education,” Mwesigwa said. He called upon the University to retain most of the best students.
Daisy Patience Amase, who graduated with a Master of Science in Marketing was grateful to Makerere University Convocation, a network that will help many students transit into employment. She used the same opportunity to acknowledge Dr. Tanga Odoi for being a very kind individual who inspired her to study hard and excel in academics.
Touched by Amase’s testimony, Dr. Tanga Odo advised Ugandans and graduates, “When you have a chance to help someone climb a ladder, always help.”
At the same luncheon, Dr. Tanga Odoi was recognized by the current leadership of the convocation for his exceptional service in stewarding the Convocation and for aggressively mobilizing the alumni to join Makerere University Convocation.
During his time as the Chairperson of Makerere University Convocation, Dr. Tanga Odoi started the mobilization drive for the Makerere University Perimeter Wall. With the funds raised, Dr. Tanga Odoi and his team commenced the construction of the Perimeter Wall from Wandegeya (near University Hall) up to Kikoni.
“It is always good to start. We started with 500,000/=, and when we mobilized up to 47 million shillings, I convinced my team at the Makerere University Convocation to start on the first phase of the Makerere University Perimeter Wall project. This was a very ambitious project, which required over five (5) billion shillings.
“Impressed by the good start, President Museveni supported us with the Government of Uganda, coming on board to fund 90% of the construction works of the Makerere University Perimeter Wall” added Dr. Tanga Odoi.
Appreciating the award, Dr. Tanga Odoi said: “I am exceedingly humbled by the award. I came to Makerere University in 1984, and Makerere University has given me all the recognitions; from my first degree to the ranks in the academia, and at this moment, personal recognition. Thank you so much.”
Comparing the working environment at Makerere University with the work in politics, Dr. Tanga Odoi who came to Makerere University on 4th October 1984 said there is no place better than Makerere University. He explained that the working environment in academic institutions is not as toxic as that in politics.
Noting the continuous growth of Makerere University convocation, Dr. Tanga Odoi commended the current Chairperson, Mr. George Turyamureeba. He noted that during his short time as the Chairperson, he has been able to build and transform the convocation into an admirable space with a conventional building and Office spaces.
“George Turyamureeba, I thank you, and your young team, for leading the Makerere University Convocation, building the Convocation block and offices, and organizing engagements such as this Graduation Luncheon that provides space for seasoned professionals, leaders and politicians to mentor the young people and graduates.”
Upholding the value of friendship and encouraging the graduates and alumni of Makerere University to have true friends, Dr. Tanga Odoi acknowledged the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe as a true friend.
“I thank the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe for being a reliable friend. The Vice Chancellor has been my guide during the times when I took over leadership as Chairperson of the Makerere University Academic Staff (MUASA) and later, as Chairperson of Makerere University Convocation.”
Writers: Carol Kasujja Adii and Ritah Namisango
Photographer: Christopher Kaahwa
The Makerere University Council and Top Management have today convened at Speke Resort Munyonyo to deliberate on the University’s Strategic Plan 2025/2026 – 2029/2030. The retreat seeks to align Makerere’s priorities with the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) and ensure that all key stakeholders contribute to shaping the institution’s next five years.
Opening the discussions, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, underscored the centrality of planning in the University’s growth trajectory. He called on members of management to actively participate in the drafting of the new strategic plan. Prof. Nawangwe highlighted Makerere’s progress in recent years, noting that the University has drawn a roadmap to becoming a research-led institution, with publications rising from 700 five years ago to 2,000 currently.
He further pointed out the revision of research policies to align with the University’s research agenda, as well as the establishment of innovation hubs that support product development, commercialisation, and intellectual property management. Commending staff for their resilience and success, Prof. Nawangwe congratulated them on winning significant individual grants, some of which now surpass institutional grants. “NDP IV is intended to grow the country tenfold, and I am confident Makerere will make a huge contribution,” he remarked.
In her keynote remarks, the Chairperson of the University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, described the retreat as a defining moment for Makerere’s role in Uganda’s transformation. She urged the University to move beyond traditional teaching and research, positioning itself as a central driver of national development.
“Our mandate extends beyond academia. The knowledge we generate, the leaders we shape, and the innovations we deliver must directly fuel Uganda’s growth,” Mrs. Magara stated.
She outlined priority national development areas— agro-industrialisation, tourism, mineral-based development, and advances in science and technology—where Makerere’s expertise can make a decisive impact. Emphasising the urgency of challenges such as youth unemployment, climate change, food insecurity, and fragile health systems, she noted that within these lie opportunities for Makerere to lead in testing and scaling solutions.
“This retreat is about discipline and focus. Our strategy cannot be a wish list; it must be a blueprint for measurable national impact,” she said, challenging participants to critically reflect on how Makerere can anchor Uganda’s food security, nurture digital innovators, strengthen health resilience, and raise transformative leaders.
She concluded with a call for boldness and clarity in execution: “The next five years are decisive. Makerere must shift from being a participant in national development to being its strongest driver. What we agree here must position Makerere not only as Uganda’s premier university but also as a trusted national partner and a beacon of Africa’s transformation.”
The retreat involved detailed discussions and contributions from University leaders, aimed at developing a practical and impact-driven strategic plan that cements Makerere’s role in advancing Uganda’s development agenda.
Education
Makerere University signs Memorandum of Understanding with International Rescue Committee to Advance Research, Innovation and Partnerships
Makerere University has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Rescue Committee to formalize undertakings in research, innovation & partnerships.
Signed in September 2025 by the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the Country Director, International Rescue Committee, Mr. Elijah Okeyo, the MoU provides a framework to implement research intensive programmes, promote innovative teaching and learning, internationalization, and contribute to societal transformation.
According to Mr. Okeyo, the MoU re-affirms Makerere University as the academic partner of the International Rescue Committee (IRC). “This MoU formalizes IRC’s working relationship with Makerere University. This framework empowers both institutions to tap into opportunities together. We believe in equal partnership. Makerere University commits to being our partner in research to contribute to evidence based humanitarian undertakings,” he said.
Under this collaboration, Makerere University and IRC will work on developing child-centered learning resources, innovative curricula, and policy-relevant research to enhance the quality of education in crisis-affected regions.
At Makerere University, the MoU brings on board, the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Research Centre.
To concretize the MoU, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga convened a partnership meeting on Friday 12th September 2025 involving a delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Dr. David Kabugo, the Deputy Director of Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and Ms. Ritah Namisango, the Principal Communication Officer.
The delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) consisted of the following: Mr. Elijah Okeyo-Country Director, Mr. Vincent Wanyama-Senior Program Development and Quality Coordinator, Mr. Richard Omasete-Policy and Advocacy PlayMatters, and Ms. Janet Nambuya-Grants and Partnerships Coordinator.
The MoU focuses on the following areas of interest: Early Childhood Development, joint research and capacity building in education, the plight of refugees and the host communities, humanitarian aid, as well as, evidence based research to inform the education policy.
In line with its mandate, IRC brings onboard, its unmatched expertise in helping children in crisis-affected areas. The MoU therefore positions both institutions to undertake a leading role in the protection of children and families through evidence based research, access to education, and humanitarian undertakings.
Dr. Kabugo, the Deputy Director MITER, noted that the MoU opens new opportunities for joint efforts in research, training, and policy. He said: “We are committed to co-designing practitioner research, engaging in professional development, and generating evidence to guide the education policy in Uganda and beyond.” Dr. Kabugo explained that this partnership builds on years of cooperation between CEES and IRC, especially in child-centered methods such as play-based learning.
Prof. Mugagga described the MOU as a practical framework that connects Makerere University’s research with IRC’s field experiences. He stated that the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) conducts programmes focused on the future of the young people through training and empowering students/teachers. He articulated that the College significantly impacts on the education sector through delivery of quality academic programmes and research under the School of Education, School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, and the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development.
“Our strongest synergy is education and early child-focused care,” Prof. Mugagga emphasized. He revealed that the collaboration presents CEES with a strong and reliable partner (IRC), which stands for protection and the well-being of children and families. “Through this MoU, both CEES and IRC, will significantly contribute to improving education for children, families, and communities impacted by conflict and crisis.”
Prof. Mugagga commended IRC for the earlier support and expertise extended to the College in the development of the early childhood centre, and working together to provide valuable input during the Ministry of Education and Sports’ consultative process that led to the Early Childhood development policy.
Reflecting on the increasing number of refugees enrolling for studies at Makerere University, Prof. Mugagga said: “ IRC has come at the right time. The College will tap into the IRC expertise to teach our staff and learners components in refugee education. They will equip our students and teachers with knowledge and skills in refugee education. Some of our students will cooperate with IRC to undertake research in refugee settlement and host communities.”
Prof. Mugagga implored both MITER and IRC to undertake research and develop modules on refugee education, parenting, re-tooling street children, integration of a health component into the curriculum, and management of truamatised students/learners who come from areas affected by war, conflict and crisis.
On the issue of play materials, Prof. Mugagga stressed that already made play materials derial creativing. “Both CEES and IRC should work towards a context that empowers children and learners to ignite their creative potential by developing home-made play materials,” he submitted.
About IRC
Stating a brief profile history about IRC, Mr. Okeyo explained that IRC is a global non-profit organisation that provides humanitarian aid and assistance to people affected by conflict and disaster. IRC has been active in Uganda since 1998, originally assisting displaced populations in Northern Uganda and later expanding its efforts to refugee settlements and urban areas.. Currently, IRC operates more than 35 health facilities in refugee settlements and runs a variety of programs in health, education, protection, and economic recovery. IRC also undertakes projects focusing on early childhood development, prevention of gender-based violence, and protection of refugees and families.
General
Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University encouraged to participate in philanthropy work
By Carol Kasujja Adii and Bernard Buteera
Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University have been encouraged to embrace the spirit of philanthropy as a vital foundation for fostering stronger and more resilient communities. This inspiring call to action took place during the 2025 Community Open Day at the Freedom Square on Saturday, September 6, 2025, where hundreds of Mastercard Scholars, Scholar-alumni, and partners of the Scholars Program gathered to initiate a fundraising drive for the signature Annual Scholars Day of Service.
The Annual Scholars Day of Service stands as a hallmark event through which the Scholars give back to the community in impactful and sustainable ways. During a keynote address titled “How Philanthropy Shapes Resilient Communities,” Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration, emphasised that while local philanthropy is not a new concept in Uganda, a more intentional mobilisation of this giving back power is necessary to address broader social challenges.
“Communities that mobilise their own resources—financial, human, and material—are empowered to take ownership of their development. Ownership naturally leads to sustainability, ensuring that solutions emerge from local knowledge, context, and values rather than being imposed from the outside. This approach is essential for effectively tackling our social challenges,” Prof. Ireeta stated.
In his remarks delivered by Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Ireeta highlighted the importance of nurturing the inherent power of local giving. He urged the celebration of current local philanthropic efforts, which can be initiated at the individual, religious, and community levels.
“To foster a culture of giving, we need to create platforms that promote structured, transparent, and impactful contributions,” he argued. “It’s crucial to strengthen our generosity, particularly among the youth, and cultivate a society where giving is valued as a core aspect of leadership and citizenship.”
Prof. Ireeta further noted, “The future of our Communities’ strength lies not in distant promises but in our own hands and collective actions. By fostering local philanthropy, we can build a society that is not only fairer but also more resilient and united.
In his welcoming remarks, Mr. John Osuna, Transition Lead for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, who spoke on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, expressed gratitude to the Scholars for their collaborative efforts in turning the idea of giving back into reality.
“Let us embody humility, kindness, and compassion through actionable philanthropy. By doing so, we can create lasting impacts, enhancing our reputation as a community that genuinely cares,” Mr. Osuna stated.
The Community Open Day was organised under the inspiring theme: “Nurturing Philanthropy for Resilient Communities,” paving the way for future initiatives that strengthen community bonds through collective generosity.
“We believe that through nurturing philanthropy for resilient communities, our communities shall be able to organise themselves to build resilience beyond what we shall give back,” Mr. Osuna explained.
The vibrant event saw Scholars and Scholar-alumni actively participating by bringing items for auction and buying tickets for the raffle draw as a means of mobilising resources for the construction of a ventilated pit latrine, renovation of two classroom blocks and providing tanks for harvesting clean water for Bwera Primary School in Kabale District.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Agnes Katumba, the Director of Katumba Estates, one of the long-standing partners of the Scholars Program at Makerere University, tasked the Scholars to embrace the heart of giving back without expecting something in return.
“I thank the Mastercard Foundation; they not only provide scholarships but also give back to the community. I have been able to grow because of them. For scholars, you do not have to wait to be wealthy to give back; every coin counts,” Mrs. Katumba said.
Katumba Estates Ltd contributed three million shillings to the Scholars Give Back project. Another long-standing partner, DFCU Bank, pledged over sh10 million towards the Scholars’ building project.
In her presentation, Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar-alumna, urged current Scholars to contribute to their communities in various ways, including mentorship and guiding young people.
“We are all here because someone chose to give. During my first year at Makerere, I contributed to some young man’s school fees back home in my community. The young man is now in his second year at Makerere. You don’t have to be wealthy to make an impact; be intentional in your giving, and you will witness the difference it makes. There is no greater fulfilment than helping someone in need,” Akwara stated.
The event was punctuated with a number of activities that ranged from auctioning items, raffle draws, exhibitions, quizzes and a lot of games and fun.
Carol Kasujja and Bernard Buteera form the communications team for the Scholars Programme at Makerere University.
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