General

Interview with Chancellor Hon. Dr. Kiyonga on His Vision for Makerere

Published

1 year ago

January 20, 2025

Mak Editor

The Chancellor, Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga gestures during his interview on 17th January 2025. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. 17th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — The Chancellor, Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga gestures during his interview on 17th January 2025.

Preamble

Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, the fourth non-Head-of-State Chancellor was officially installed on 2^nd October 2024 at a ceremony presided over by the President of the Republic of Uganda and Visitor of Makerere University H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Hon. Dr. Kiyonga fresh from presiding over the 75^th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University held 13^th to 17^th January 2025 had an interaction with the Public Relations Office and shared his vision for his Alma Mater.

Welcome Remarks

I welcome you to this brief meeting. I thank you for coming. Today Friday, we have come to the end of the Graduation Week. We started this particular assignment on Monday and each day we have been graduating students until today. We had a total of 13,658 students ranging from PhD through Masters, through Bachelors and some Diplomas.

The fact that in one week we graduated over 13,000 students tells you that 1) Makerere has indeed grown; it has expanded. When I graduated here in 1978, it was just a one-day ceremony. But because of the numbers, we are taking the whole week and on each day, we are almost graduating over 1,000 students. 2) Makerere University has also grown in terms of the disciplines. Now we talk about ten colleges including the School of Law. The courses are very varied. I think the most important thing is that Uganda this week received an addition to the trained workforce from Makerere of over 13,000 graduates, including over 140 people graduating with PhDs, and nearly 2,000 graduating with Masters. So thank you for coming and giving us an opportunity to account to the public. This is a public institution and we must always let the country know what we are doing here.

I’m now ready to take some of your questions.

What is your vision for Makerere University, and how do you plan to achieve it during your tenure?

I am going to build on what my predecessors Professor Suruma, Professor Kagonyera and others have done. However, my particular interest is in strong linkage with the community. A public university is accountable to the community; it must have its heart in the communities and in this regard, I think we can do more outreaches to the communities. I have proposed, and I believe the university will go along with me, that in the area of agriculture, we should partner with at least one medium or large-scale farm in each region. This could be a farm of crops or animals, but we want to have a farm in each of the traditional regions of Northern, Western, Central and Eastern Uganda.

We shall use that partnership with that particular farm to do outreaches. The students will go to this farm and work for a period as they also reach out to the surrounding small farms, and contribute to extending agricultural knowledge to the people who live around that farm. That is one of the things that I hope to drive.

I wish to add that going to the farms in the regions will not be restricted to students in agriculture. Even if a student is doing Social Sciences, they will be part of this team. We all come from communities and live in communities. We should therefore appreciate the situation of our people and be able to show how they can improve their livelihood.

The second drive is to enhance intellectual cooperation. You have heard President Museveni speak a lot about integration; integration of Africa, integration of Eastern Africa, trade, infrastructure, etc. But we also need to come in with the intellectual side of integration. This week, the Vice Chancellor Professor Nawangwe signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Vice Chancellor of the University of South Africa, which was excellent.

I did appeal to both Vice Chancellors, that this should be the beginning of a journey where more and more universities in Africa work together. Why should you be a university in Western Africa working with universities in Paris, in Europe, and you’re not working with fellow universities in your continent? So let us work together at the university level and this should include exchange of students. We can have for example 100 or so students from Makerere going to West Africa and completing their courses there. That way we get to appreciate each other more, and get to know our continent much better. Africa needs to take advantage of every opportunity to unite and work closely together.

Thirdly is research. The Vice Chancellor talks a lot about research. Research conducted by a Makerere University should first and foremost be inward looking; to solve the problems of the community, Uganda, and then Africa, not just for the sake of intellectualism. It is a rare resource, intellectuals looking into issues of their own country.

Lastly, I am going to follow up on all these PhDs. Where are they going? These are rare resources, they have researched in many cases very relevant issues. I saw three or four PhDs researching on sweet potatoes. I don’t know what they are talking about sweet potatoes. But I also want to see more research that solves what I may call structural issues. Why are we food insecure despite having arable land? Why is there such a high level of malnutrition in the country despite having arable land? Does our traditional production system have a problem? Certainly. In the Southern and Western Uganda, there is a problem; matooke all over the place. People are into matooke and when you visit Mulago (National Referral Hospital), most the children who have kwashiorkor or marasmus are from the banana belt. Why? Because our traditional food is matooke; people are just eating matooke which has very little nutritional value. This we must structurally change. I have seen so many PhDs graduate during the week and now I am going to follow up. Where are these PhDs going? I precisely want to know because that is a very prime resource. What is their value addition? I want to check on the value addition aspect. Then what we shall do will depend on our findings.

Just to give you an idea, I was in China for three years. China is a huge country with 1.4billion people. But wherever you are in China, you find two things in as far as food is concerned; production of pork and rice, it is everywhere and it is enough to cover their people.

I am not saying that our food security should be based on rice. No. I can give you specific examples such as millet, which is found in all our traditions from all parts of Uganda, and is historically respected and loved. But where is millet? Millet is not a very complicated crop to produce and I don’t know if the researchers are working on it. However, if we come up with a campaign to multiply the type of millet we have, it will be a very big improvement. So our food security strategy will be based on our traditions but adjusted according to science.

How do you plan to foster strategic partnerships with local and international institutions to enhance research, innovation, and student exchange programs?

Precisely, if I start with the communities just to repeat myself, we want to partner on production and food security. We can then also add in special Government programmes like the Parish Development Model (PDM). Once we are in the community, we want to find out how these Government programmes are doing.

I’m glad, there is a PhD student who conducted his PhD work on Operation Wealth Creation (OWC). He seems to have evaluated the effectiveness of Operation Wealth Creation. At a political level, we may think we are doing well but we now need technical input to go and check if our intended objective is being achieved. If not, what are the constraints?

I am personally not so excited about international cooperation. That’s not my issue. Africa is behind. We have been working with those people. Why have we remained behind? I am more interested in Makerere cooperating with other African universities in a tangible way; student exchanges, professors working common problems, food security, and exploiting our own resources. What is constraining us and why are we not moving?

What initiatives will you undertake now that you are back as Chancellor, to address the university’s infrastructure challenges, including lecture rooms, laboratories, and student accommodation?

I am yet to appreciate that which is a constraint here but on the face of it, many of the Halls of Residence are old. I am glad that the Government has worked on Lumumba Hall, and they are working on Mary Stuart. One of these days I am going to visit my hall, Livingstone, and our neighbouring Africa Hall. I think these Halls of Residence will need to be fixed.

However, the university has grown in numbers so we need to be more informed about students, even if they are private, who are not living in the Halls of Residence. Where do they live? Is it convenient? What I think can be done is a partnership. On one hand there are private sector players who want to put up buildings and on the other, students who want to pay money. So we need to partner with those people who want to build. If we can have more buildings close to the University, but structured in such a way that they are convenient for the students that would be great. If it is a Hall of Residence close to the University, it should even have a Library or reading space where once they students have had their meals, they can go and read. They should have computer rooms where students can work.

I am aware that the majority of the students are living off-campus and it should be our business to give them an appropriate environment. They are exposed to all sorts of things and they are the primary responsibility of the Government. Even if the Government is not paying for their accommodation, the Government should be concerned about the environment in which they live. In this respect, the Government can give guidelines to investors. Facilities that house students of Makerere or any other university should be structurally sound, and not located in risky areas that expose students to vices.

Currently the University has over 400,000 alumni across the world. How do you plan to strengthen engagement with Makerere University alumni?

During the Convocation Luncheon, I shared with the Chairperson Mr. George Turyamureeba that it was not enough to just have a meal with the best graduates and bid them farewell as they go into the job market. The Convocation should follow up. They should have contacts of these students and reach out to them through WhatsApp communication or some other platform so that we know their basic skills and where they are. And then on the other hand, the Convocation Secretariat, if I may call them that, should have an insight of the labour market in the country and play the role of linking people who have qualified with possible areas where they can be placed.

I can see for example the courses. I am amazed! This week I have been brought up to date. I didn’t know that Makerere now had so many courses in so many areas. But my suspicion is that in the countryside, people don’t know about all these opportunities. During my time in Budo, and in Nyakasura, towards the end of candidate classes of S.4 and S.6, there would be a week of career guidance. I am not sure that they are doing that any more. So we must have either through the Internet or otherwise, a deliberate way of career guidance for students wherever they are. The Convocation should help people in that respect.

As you come on board, what strategies do you plan to implement, working with Management and Council, to ensure the university’s financial sustainability, including revenue diversification and cost management?

Firstly, I think so far, so good, in the sense that my initial impression is that there is no major financial problem, to the extent that the Government-supported students get their tuition paid and also have their additional costs met.

Research seems to be going well, but I think the University itself can engage in production, particularly agricultural production. In this respect, I am glad that the Vice Chancellor is very keen. He was recently telling me the President gave the University land, but it is not fully in our hands, this is one of the issues we are going to solve. The land that belongs to Makerere should come into their hands. But I am also going to challenge the University to utilise the land that is in its possession.

I have proposed publicly that we should develop what we call agro-industrial parks. We need many agro-industrial parks in this country because that is a more organized way of production. Immediately, that will absorb so many students because an agro-industrial park can span an area of even ten square miles. You have machines there like tractors, planters, you can specifically say you are going to do three or four crops, and then you develop a full value chain. If you have cows, you should be ready to produce even ice cream. This is a good way to go even as a country. Agro-industrial parks will add value to our basic agricultural products for our consumption, first and foremost, but also for export.

Regarding innovations, I may be wrong but the impression I get is that the University thinks if they have an innovation, they are the ones to take it forward to commercialization. The university doesn’t have time and resources for that. But once they have the innovation, it should be patented and then we look at a private sector person who has money and needs ideas.

The President has for example been talking about traders under KACITA and other umbrella bodies, who are always importing. However, if we link up with them and say, it is good to import but when you import, we are losing something. If we are importing cloth for example, if they cloth itself was made here, our people would not only have cloth but also the jobs that make the cloth. That would also grow the market for the raw materials from which we make the cloth. So we cannot go wrong. Therefore, our innovations should link with the Private Sector so that we make more and more of the products we need ourselves.

How do you intend to promote entrepreneurship among students and faculty members?

With entrepreneurship, as President Museveni has directed, and I am glad the University has quickly adopted that, the question of political economy. Alongside political economy, every student should study entrepreneurship. Whether you are doing Medicine, Veterinary Medicine or Engineering, study something about business. That’s critical. We cannot keep telling students to go and use their own ideas to do business. That is not enough. We should also facilitate them, by teaching them how to organize their data and keep records of their sales, expenses and all that.

What measures will you take to enhance student welfare, including mental health support, career guidance, and extracurricular activities?

That’s a good question. On welfare, you have touched a good point by bringing in mental health which is critical because many of the students are going through difficulties. There’s a time a student from my home area rung me after I had been announced Chancellor, informing me that they did not have anything to eat that night. These issues are very critical. Where are these students living, what are they eating, and what type of homes are they coming from? We need to know, even if it is to advise them on what to do to overcome those issues.

Some, for one reason or another, have fallen into bad habits; they are drinking, they are smoking, they are on drugs, these are serious issues I hear even in secondary schools. So if we are not cautious of them, then we are not being fully responsible. So that is a good point you have raised. We need to organize at the University a mechanism which enables students themselves to be each other’s guards. We should develop a pool of counsellors. The students are there, qualifying with certificates and degrees in counselling. Every university should formally have counsellors, preferably students.

Equally important is that students should know how to protect themselves from HIV/AIDS and other diseases. We are now getting epidemics of COVID-19, Marburg, etc. The students should have general knowledge of these issues, they should have a forum on which they interface.

All the activities both in the University and private hostels should be screened for their potential risk on the future of students. There have been examples of students gambling their fees or pocket money from which they should buy food. Some of these things should be disallowed. I don’t think it’s a good idea. If you want to make money, why do it through gambling? If you want to make money, go to an agro-industrial park and work, produce a good or a service and do not just speculate on odds.

In China, you don’t just put anything on the TV programme to mislead people. We cannot just stand by in the name of freedom of speech and allow people to be misled. So likewise, that gambling is not a correct thing. We need to study this thing. We need a holistic approach.

With regard to career guidance, for development, we need human beings, we need land, and we need capital/money. People do not know the wealth we are not fully utilising. In developed countries, the populations are mainly very old people. In Uganda, the majority are young, energetic, versatile people who can do a lot of things. That’s an advantage we have.

The Vice Chancellor made reference to Professor Jeffrey Sachs’ concern on; how you can be a poor country, with young people who are educated, but say that they are unemployed? You are not serious and I agree with him. We have arable land lying idle, we have our people not properly fed, and the young people who can produce this food and even process it are lying idle. Is there any barrier preventing us from using these children to go and work the land? So, we must solve that problem and the Convocation can play some role in that respect; identifying the gaps and what can be done to fill them.

As we conclude the 75^th Graduation Week, what are your reflections on the university’s progress, and what message would you like to convey to the graduating class?

As I said previously, during my time, one day would be enough for graduation. Now, we are taking a whole week, which is good. This is progress, this is transformation – we take a whole week turning out people with knowledge which the community badly needs for us to move forward. The challenge now is not just the young people that we turn out. From the Government side, from the University side, we must create opportunities so that when you get out, you are going to do something, and I have given my example of the agro-industrial parks. This is a way to solve this problem. On a smaller level, we need to have linkage between gaps in the job market and skills of our graduating students.

As you look to the future, what legacy do you hope to leave at Makerere University?

I hear a lot of people talking about legacy. As revolutionaries, we talk about vigilance first of all. In the village there were people we used to call vigilantes. They were like scouts on the lookout and wherever there was a problem, they were present. Being vigilantes means wherever we are, we must be conscious of the call on us by the country to develop. It is not just that “Me Kiyonga I did this”, that’s not our path. If I’m in Makerere, what is the issue at Makerere and how can I work with my colleagues to move forward? If I’m in China, what are the challenges of Uganda and what can I do about them even while in China?

My issue is not legacy. For us it is making a contribution together with others. Alone, you are useless, you can’t do much. So wherever you turn, you are a vigilante. Work with other colleagues to solve problems, the country’s problems, not because they will write “Kiyonga was here, Nawangwe was here”, no. What should be written is that “Africa has moved forward”, not individuals.

I agree that you can give academicians an award but once we are in life, the problems are so many. The Bible puts it very well, “the harvest is heavy, and the hands are few.” Why are you looking for legacy? There is so much to be done. I think it is also the Bible that says “We should work and not wait to be thanked.” Let’s work. And for Africans, the black people, the issue should not be what your label is. The issue should be what work is remaining to be done. And wherever you are placed, work as hard as possible, make a contribution and move on.

END

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Excitement as 36 Mastercard Foundation Scholars graduate from Makerere University

General

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University Celebrates the Last Cohort of Phase One Graduates

Published

2 days ago

April 2, 2026

Bernard Buteera

Ms. Reeta Roy receiving a gift from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars and alumni Community at Makerere University. Celebrating 13 years of a significant partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and honorary Doctor of Laws conferred upon Ms. Reeta Roy, the Founding President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation, 27th February 2026, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

At the just-concluded 76^th Graduation Ceremony at Makerere University, which took place between 24^th and 27^th 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?

Graduation of the final Cohort of 10 Mastercard Foundation Scholars from the first phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (2013-2023), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

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.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Makerere University. Graduation of the final Cohort of 10 Mastercard Foundation Scholars from the first phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (2013-2023), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Makerere University.***

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.

General

Application for Admission to Graduate Programmes 2026/27

Published

4 days ago

March 31, 2026

Mak Editor

Update 31^st March 2026: Application Deadline Extended to Thursday 30^th April 2026

The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites applications for admission to Graduate Programmes (Postgraduate Diplomas, Masters and Doctoral Degree Programmes) for the 2026/2027 Academic Year.

Applicants should have obtained at least a first or second class degree (or its equivalent) from a Chartered University at the time of completion. Applicants should also possess a Uganda Certificate of Education (or its equivalent) and a Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (or its equivalent).

Sponsorship:
All Graduate Programmes are PRIVATELY-SPONSORED. Therefore, applicants seeking sponsorship should have their applications endorsed by their respective sponsors where applicable. Applicants should note that the various fees payable to the University indicated for the various programmes EXCLUDE functional fees, accommodation, books, research and other expenses.

The available programmes including the tuition fees applicable can be found in the following document:

Advert-Post-graduate-programmes-2025-2026 Download

Procedure of Submitting an Application:

Visit the Makerere University’s Admissions URL https://apply.mak.ac.ug
Sign up using full name, e-mail and Mobile No. Please note that your name must be similar to the one on your supporting academic documents for your application to be considered valid.
A password will be sent to both your e-mail and mobile number.
The system will prompt you to change the password to the one you can easily remember.
To fill a form (all form sections must be filled) the applicant clicks on the APPLY NOW button (for first time applicants) or MY PORTAL button (for renewal of application) displayed on the appropriate scheme i.e. Taught PhDs, Masters & Postgrad Diplomas OR PhD by Research.
All academic transcripts/certificates and passport photos should be scanned and uploaded on the system.
You can access the referees’ letter by following the following link: https://dgt.mak.ac.ug/resources/referees-letter-of-recommendation-for-admission-to-a-graduate-programme/ These should be filled, scanned and uploaded.
Obtain a payment reference number [PRN] by clicking on “Pay for Form” button
Make the following payments at any of the banks used by URA
i) Application fee = UGX 50,000 (East African applicants) or UGX 151,500 (International Applicants)
Account Name: UGANDA REVENUE AUTHORITY COLLECTIONS
Account No: 003410158000002
For INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS, application fees can be transferred either by EFT
or any other means in UGX to a designated
URA collection account in Bank of Uganda as follows:
Swift Code: UGBAUGKAU
Bank Name: BANK OF UGANDA
Bank Address: KAMPALA, UGANDA
Currency: UGANDA SHILLINGS
Strictly observe the closing date on 30^th April 2026.
All Applicants for Master of Laws (LLM) will do a Graduate Admission Test (GAT) consisting of an oral Interview and written test on dates and other requirements to be communicated by the School.
All Applicants for Master of Business Administration (College of Business and Management Sciences and Makerere University Business School) will do a GMAT test on dates to be communicated by College of Business and Management Sciences and Makerere University Business School respectively.
For further information regarding admission requirements for the specific
programmes, visit our website https://dgt.mak.ac.ug.

General

Celebrating a Life of Loyal and Distinguished Service

Published

1 week ago

March 27, 2026

Mak Editor

Celebrating Pastor John M. Ekudu-Adoku, Dean of Students (1995-2010). Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa

The Makerere University community has with great sadness received the news of the passing on of our long serving Dean of Students, Father figure and Mentor to thousands of our alumni, Pastor John Ekudu. Please accept our sincerest condolences.

If loyal and distinguished service had a face, that face would be Pastor John Ekudu. A concurrent graduate of the Bachelor of Science (Botany/Zoology) and Diploma of Education of Makerere University in 1974, he, like many in that turbulent era, could have chosen to flee, but he didn’t.

Instead, he chose to stay, and along with many fresh graduates and senior staff, graciously accepted the title of “economic war lecturers/professors”, whose selflessness kept Makerere’s gates open during unpredictable times. In 1982 he was appointed Warden of Kabanyolo Hostel and thereafter Warden of University Hall in 1989, where he was promoted to the rank of Senior Warden.

In 1995 he was promoted to Dean of Students and whereas this would marked the beginning of a time to seat back and relax, it turned out to be a baptism of fire. The introduction of private sponsorship and cost-sharing which dealt away with “boom” incensed students. And then came the nightmare serial killings of students in 1996 and 1997. Dealing with strikes became his daily bread but still he chose to stay.

But he did more than stay. He thrived, improving students’ meals with the introduction of much-needed animal protein, not to mention the daily dose of bread and rice. Pastor Ekudu was the true embodiment of taking the stumbling blocks that life throws at you and trusting God to help you turn them into stepping stones.

We therefore stand with the family during this trying time and pray that the God Almighty, who knows the plans He has for each and every one of us will continue to comfort and strengthen you.

May Pastor John M. Ekudu-Adoku’s soul rest in eternal peace.

Makerere-Pastor-John-Ekudu-Adoku-Death-Announcement Download