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Tribute to Prof. Livingstone S. Luboobi: Servant leader, Mentor, Father Figure and Role Model

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Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, on 16th July 2025, you have completed your earthly journey, and you are returning to the Almighty God, your creator.  It is very painful to lose you, my mentor and role model.  I will find solace in your impactful legacy. I am comforted that you will live on, through the countless lives that you touched, inspired and mentored at the national and international levels.

To God be the glory, for a life well lived (25th December 1944 to 16th July 2025). A genuine human being with a pure heart. A life of good works to humanity filled with simplicity, empathy, love, respect, generosity, wise counsel and guidance, and compassion. You have been a true embodiment of the scripture in Matthew 22:39, love your neighbor as yourself.

Professor Luboobi, you were one of a kind. You have been God’s perfect gift to humanity. A very intelligent and distinguished mathematician who served as the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University from 2004 to 2009.  You believed that every individual had a contribution to make in the transformation of Makerere University. I am grateful to God that I met you in the course of my academic journey, a blessing that presented me with a rich and rewarding experience that solidified my career path.

Meeting Greatness

Reflecting on my career and life journey (2004 to date), I was blessed to work with Professor Luboobi during his tenure as Vice Chancellor. I met Professor Luboobi in 2004, when I was a student pursuing a Bachelor of Mass Communication degree at Makerere University. It was in the morning hours, as he headed to the Office of the Vice Chancellor, walking along that path of the then Faculty of Arts to the Main Building. I was coming out of a lecture at the Faculty of Arts, and rushing to catch another lecture at the Faculty of Social Sciences.

The Late Professor Livingstone Serwadda Luboobi, Vice Chancellor Emeritus (2004 - 2009). Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Late Professor Livingstone Serwadda Luboobi, Vice Chancellor Emeritus (2004 – 2009).

A few months earlier, I had read about him as the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University in one of the newspapers. When I glanced at him walking along the same path, he stopped, and greeted me with a smile. I responded to the greeting. After the greeting, I became speechless. He volunteered to continue the conversation, with a question, “Which course are studying at the University?” I responded-Bachelor of Mass communication. And in a minute, he passed on a word of counsel, enjoy your studies and remember to read and excel. I was meeting him for the first time, but he used that minute to pass on words of wisdom. I was filled with joy that I had met and greeted the Vice Chancellor, and little did I know, that I one day, I would work directly under him.

As luck would determine, the then Public Relations Officer of Makerere University, Ms. Helen Nanteza Kawesa joined the Department of Mass Communication to teach one of the course units. Ms. Nanteza Kawesa assigned us work, and I scored 29 out of 30 in the coursework. After the lecture, she requested to meet that particular student who had scored that mark. I interacted with her, and later, I was presented with an opportunity to join Makerere University Public Relations Office for internship.

When I reached the Public Relations Office, I was introduced to the staff in the Office of the Vice Chancellor. Ms. Nanteza Kawesa also introduced me to the Vice Chancellor as a student intern who was joining the Public Relations Office. He was seated in his Chair, but he stood up, shook my hand, and with a smile, welcomed me to the Office of the Vice Chancellor. He said: “You are going to add value to the Office of the Vice Chancellor.” I felt so nice and empowered.

The following morning, Professor Luboobi presented to me a note in his very nice hand-writing: “I am certain that you are that little girl, I once met and interacted with briefly at the Faculty of Arts as I headed to my office. I did not know that a year later, you would join the Office of the Vice Chancellor, I am extremely pleased that you have joined the Public Relations Office for internship. Feel free through your immediate supervisor to participate in every activity or program undertaken by the Office.”

I read that note a number of times, and I would recall, the phrase from the Vice Chancellor, assuring me that I was going to add value to the Office. He was a source of inspiration.

During my internship, I observed that Professor Luboobi was very intelligent, but down to earth. He embodied the true qualities of a servant leader. He was people-centred and inclusive. In the staff meetings, Professor Luboobi was always calm. He accorded his staff and the student intern, an opportunity to contribute ideas on the different topics or issues that were being discussed. He was a principled and exemplary leader. He was honest and a person with the highest degree of integrity and morality. He was a team player, and he exercised an open door policy. In his presence, we felt safe, valued and respected. He believed in the team that he led, and presented each member of staff with an opportunity to shine.

Ms Winnie Ndagire(L) and the writer Ms Ritah Namisango during the funeral service held at St. Francis Chapel.

Professor Luboobi appreciated the contribution of his staff. There was cohesion and we felt a great sense of belonging. As I completed my internship, I was strongly convinced that in Professor Luboobi, I had met a father figure and role model. He closely monitored my academic performance, and I knew that I had no room not to excel.

On completion of my studies, I felt that I should return to the Public Relations Office to volunteer as I applied for jobs in other organisations. When the PRO presented my request, Professor Luboobi was very receptive.  When I graduated, he presented me with a card, in his neat hand-writing, congratulating me upon my academic achievement. He gifted me with a simple, but classic present that I hold dear up to this day. He also contributed a generous package towards my graduation party.

During his tenure as Vice Chancellor, I was in position to serve as a student intern, volunteer, and Administrative Assistant.

He enhanced my leadership abilities. In one of the interactions, he disclosed to me that over time, he had observed that I was gifted with leadership abilities. I informed him that I had been a leader from nursery, primary and throughout my secondary school level education. He looked at me with a smile, and then said, “you are now going to be a leader guiding the Vice Chancellor, and your ideas will matter.” I looked at him, trying to understand what he exactly meant.

He assigned me tasks that enabled me to understand and appreciate the role of a Vice Chancellor. He said: “I am going to present you with an assignment.” If you became the Vice Chancellor today, what issues would you focus on? What issues or current practices would you wish to change? He requested that I should return with the written report the next morning. I have vivid memories of this assignment, I spent long hours at night, to ensure that I do not disappoint. In the morning, I walked into his office.  He listened to my ideas as he took notes. After my presentation, he thanked me for contributing such wonderful ideas, and he gave me some chocolates. A week after, he convened a meeting for the staff in the Office of the Vice Chancellor, he shared those ideas with them. He then requested each member to provide his or her input. Thereafter, he organized a retreat off campus, for members of staff in his office, to provide more ideas on building strong systems within the Office of the Vice Chancellor.

He presented me with opportunities that grounded me in my career path: In office, he would ensure that the mandated office executes its work. He respected systems and worked within the hierarchy.

However, outside of the office, when his personal friends reached out to him to identify a person excellent in public relations and communications, he would strongly recommend me.

He nurtured my strategic planning potential: After some months, he assigned me another task. “I am working on the Strategic Plan for the University. It is going to be a consultative and participatory process. However, a leader does not go to a strategic meeting without any sense of direction. I have my ideas of what should be in the strategic plan, and I would like you to provide your ideas as a recent graduate of Makerere University, who has served as a student intern and volunteer in the Office of the Vice Chancellor.

“You are the first person that I am presenting this task with. After your submission, I will engage the members of staff in the Office the Vice Chancellor, Deans and Directors, and other stakeholders.”

I felt exceedingly humbled and challenged at the same time. To be sincere, at that time, I had never come across any strategic planning document. Sensing that I was overwhelmed, he said, let me simplify the task in form of a question. “What would you like Makerere University to be in the next five years? or What would be your vision for Makerere University in the next five years?”

When I went to his office the next day, he presented me with his strategic plan working document. He told me to read and critique it. I will never forget this experience!

Professor Livingstone Luboobi shows off his certificate of appreciation during Makerere University's celebration of her Legacy of Leadership on 17th March 2023. Kampala Serena Hotel, Uganda, East Africa.
Professor Livingstone Luboobi shows off his certificate of appreciation during Makerere University‘s celebration of her Legacy of Leadership on 17th March 2023.

I did not feel bold and grounded enough. In a very calm tone, he looked at me straight in the eye, and requested me to give it a try and critique it. Since he would listen to our opinions or ideas, I suggested to him that I felt that fellow Professors or Senior academics would critique his work.  He welcomed the idea and he requested me to provide the names of the Professors or Senior academics that I thought would critique his work. I provided five (5) names and he wrote them down. Professor Luboobi said, you have presented me with a team of experts and I will involve them at the next stage.

However, I have a team leader in front of me, gifted with the knowledge of identifying a team of experts, I would like such a person to critique my work. I must acknowledge that this was not a simple task, but I read his document and I provided my input.

He also requested for my written report about my vision of Makerere University.  After reading it, he informed me that he had selected some ideas that would enrich his working draft. He convened a meeting involving the Professors or Senior academics that I had proposed as his team of experts and all the staff in the Office of the Vice Chancellor to enrich the strategic plan working document. Thereafter, he requested the Planning and Development Department to organize a retreat bringing onboard leaders of the different academic, administrative and research units to contribute ideas to the strategic plan of the University.

At the level of Administrative Assistant, Professor Luboobi mentored me, to understand and appreciate the roles of a Vice Chancellor, he involved me in key critical decision making processes, he nurtured my strategic planning potential; he linked me with experts in the different disciplines for mentorship; he entrusted me with managing team-building engagements in the Office of the Vice Chancellor, to mention, but a few.

Over the years, I have served as Communication Officer, Senior Public Relations Officer, and Principal Public Relations Officer of Makerere University.

The team in the Public Relations Office, will forever hold dear Professor Luboobi’s visionary leadership that streamlined the public relations function within the University. During his tenure as Vice Chancellor, Professor Luboobi championed the recruitment of more staff in the Public Relations Office, bringing on board Corporate Affairs, Web management, Branding and Marketing experts. By providing this strategic direction, he significantly contributed to the visibility of Makerere University at the national and global arena.

He was truly called to the teaching profession. He loved his work and served people with distinction and humility. He was selfless, dedicated and committed to duty throughout his life. He generously shared his vast knowledge and skills with humanity.

He was humane. He espoused the most important ethos of a true human being. He lived the ‘Obuntu’ style. In Luganda, ‘abadde musajja omuntumulamu, omwetowaze era ow’empisa.’

Professor Luboobi, I will forever remain eternally grateful to God that I crossed your path. You will always remain my mentor and role model. Thank you for impacting my life positively. Fare-thee-well.

Ritah Namisango is the Principal Public Relations and Communication Specialist at Makerere University.

Ritah Namisango
Ritah Namisango

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SPH celebrates Claire’s 14 years of service

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The Dean and Staff of SPH with Claire Nakayizi during the celebration. Celebrating Claire Nakayizi's 14 years of service as Custodian, August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH), Mulago Hospital Complex, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

After 14 years of dedicated service, Claire Nakayizi, a familiar face and trusted custodian at the School of Public Health (SPH), has retired, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, commitment, kindness and service to the School community.

For many people at the School of Public Health, the sight of Claire arriving early in the morning, opening up the building and ensuring that everything was in order was simply part of the daily rhythm of life at the School.

For 14 years, Claire has been a constant presence at SPH. She has witnessed generations of staff, students, researchers and visitors walk through the School’s doors. She has seen colleagues join, grow and eventually move on, while she remained a dependable presence, quietly carrying out her responsibilities and ensuring that the School was ready to welcome everyone each day.

Her retirement was therefore more than a routine farewell. It was an opportunity for colleagues to celebrate a woman whose contribution, though often carried out behind the scenes, touched many lives and contributed significantly to the smooth running of the School.

Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze (R) and Claire Nakayizi (L). Celebrating Claire Nakayizi's 14 years of service as Custodian, August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH), Mulago Hospital Complex, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze (R) and Claire Nakayizi (L).

At a farewell brunch organised by the Dean, School of Public Health, Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, colleagues and friends described Claire in glowing terms. Words such as hardworking, kind, patient, resilient, dependable and caring repeatedly featured in the tributes.

For many, Claire was much more than a custodian. She was described as a mother figure, a counsellor and someone people could approach whenever they needed a listening ear, encouragement or simply a warm smile.

A commitment that went beyond the call of duty

One of the strongest themes to emerge during the farewell was Claire’s extraordinary commitment to her work.

Colleagues recalled how she would routinely open the School building as early as 6:00 a.m., ensuring that staff and students arriving for the day found the premises ready. Her working day could stretch well into the evening, with some days requiring her to remain at the School until 8:00 p.m. or even 10:00 p.m.

Despite the long hours and demanding nature of her responsibilities, colleagues said Claire rarely complained. Instead, she approached her work with patience and resilience, always focused on ensuring that the School was secure and that its operations could continue smoothly.

Her dedication was particularly evident in her contribution to improving the security of the School building. Over the years, Claire became a trusted custodian of the premises, helping to ensure that the building was opened and closed responsibly and that the environment remained secure for those who worked and studied there.

Speaking at the farewell, Prof. Wanyenze described Claire as someone who consistently worked beyond the call of duty.

Claire Nakayizi receives a plaque in appreciation of her service from the Dean and Leaderhship of SPH. Celebrating Claire Nakayizi's 14 years of service as Custodian, August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH), Mulago Hospital Complex, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Claire Nakayizi receives a plaque in appreciation of her service from the Dean and Leaderhship of SPH.

The Dean acknowledged that saying goodbye to Claire was an emotional moment, given the many years she had spent serving the School and the relationships she had built along the way.

However, Prof. Wanyenze said she had spoken to Claire and was assured that she was ready to embrace the next phase of her life.

She joined colleagues in wishing Claire good health, happiness and prosperity as she begins her retirement journey.

More than a custodian

Claire’s impact at SPH was not limited to the physical responsibilities associated with her job. To those who interacted with her regularly, her greatest contribution was perhaps the warmth and humanity she brought to the workplace.

Amos Ddembe, the Internal Auditor, described Claire as a joy to watch as she went about her work.

He particularly remembered her interactions with people when she was stationed at the reception area. Claire, he noted, was almost always smiling and welcoming to staff and visitors.

Her ability to make people feel comfortable, regardless of their position or role at the School, earned her the affection and respect of many colleagues.

Claire’s colleagues also remembered her as someone who was willing to listen and offer guidance. Her patience and calm demeanour meant that people could approach her with their concerns, knowing they would receive a sympathetic ear.

Over the years, these seemingly small interactions accumulated into meaningful relationships, helping to make Claire one of the most recognisable and trusted members of the SPH community.

A legacy of service

Fourteen years is a significant period in the life of any institution. During that time, Claire witnessed changes in leadership, staff, students, programmes and the physical environment of the School.

She remained a constant through these transitions.

Her service represents the important contribution made by members of the support staff whose work often happens quietly but is essential to the functioning of an institution.

From opening the building before sunrise to securing it late in the evening, welcoming people at reception, supporting the day-to-day operations of the School and contributing to the security of the premises, Claire’s work helped create an environment in which others could perform their own responsibilities.

Claire Nakayizi makes her remarks. Celebrating Claire Nakayizi's 14 years of service as Custodian, August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH), Mulago Hospital Complex, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Claire Nakayizi makes her remarks.

Her story is a reminder that the success of an institution is built not only through high-profile academic and research achievements, but also through the dedication of people who ensure that the institution functions every day.

A gesture of appreciation

As part of the farewell, the Department of Community Health and Behavioral Sciences also expressed its appreciation for Claire’s years of service.

Representing the Department, Dr. Christine Nalwadda presented Claire with a cash envelope on behalf of the staff as a token of appreciation for her commitment and contribution to the School.

A new chapter begins

As Claire leaves the School of Public Health, she takes with her the memories of 14 years of service and the goodwill of the many people she encountered along the way.

For the colleagues who gathered to celebrate her, the farewell was not simply about marking the end of employment. It was about celebrating a colleague who had become part of the fabric of the School.

As she begins this new chapter, the School of Public Health joins together in saying:

Thank you, Claire, for 14 years of dedicated service. Thank you for the early mornings, the long evenings, the smiles, the patience and the unwavering commitment.

May retirement bring you the good health, peace, happiness and prosperity you so richly deserve.”

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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50 Master’s Students Awarded Scholarships Under the Africa Climate Collaborative at Makerere University

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Cohort two of the Africa Climate Collaborative scholars pose for a group photo after the award ceremony. Award Ceremony for Cohort 2 of 50 young people to pursue Master's studies under the Africa Climate Collaborative, an initiative supported by the Mastercard Foundation for the 2026/2027 academic, 20th August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) Auditorium, Main Campus, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Damali Mukhaye

The Africa Climate Collaborative at Makerere University, an initiative supported by the Mastercard Foundation, has awarded scholarships to 50 young people to pursue master’s studies as part of its continued investment in developing the next generation of African climate leaders, researchers, and innovators.

After a competitive process that attracted 483 applications, 50 scholars who make up the second cohort of master’s scholars under the Africa Climate Collaborative were formally presented with their scholarship award letters by the Vice chancellor at a joint scholarships award ceremony for Mastercard Foundation initiatives at Makerere University held on 20th August, 2026, at the School of Public Health Auditorium.

Of the 483 applicants received, 182 were female and 301 were male, while 64 were international applicants.

Prof. Claire Mack Mugasa, the Chairperson of the Africa Climate Collaborative Selection Sub-Committee, said that the selection process was undertaken by an 11-member committee mandated to identify 50 master’s scholars and 12 PhD scholars for the academic year 2026/2027.

Prof. Claire Mack Mugasa, Chairperson of the Selection Sub-committee of the Africa Climate Collaborative. Award Ceremony for Cohort 2 of 50 young people to pursue Master's studies under the Africa Climate Collaborative, an initiative supported by the Mastercard Foundation for the 2026/2027 academic, 20th August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) Auditorium, Main Campus, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Claire Mack Mugasa, Chairperson of the Selection Sub-committee of the Africa Climate Collaborative.

Following the initial assessment, 307 applicants were admitted to Makerere University, including 119 females, 188 males, and 14 of those admitted were international students. The selection process then proceeded to further shortlisting, with 150 candidates identified for interviews and 100 subjected to status validation before the final 50 scholars were selected.

Prof. Mugasa said the final selection reflected the program’s commitment to inclusion and equitable access to educational opportunities. She commended the Selection Sub-Committee for its commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent process.

“Today, I present to you the 50 scholars, Cohort Two of the Africa Climate Collaborative,” she said while presenting the scholars to Prof. Ibrahim Okumu, the Dean, School of Economics, who represented the Vice Chancellor.

Of the 50 successful scholars, 34, representing 68 per cent, are female and 16, representing 32 per cent, are male. The cohort also includes four international students, five persons with disabilities, four refugees and internally displaced persons, and four young people from refugee-hosting communities and minority tribes of Uganda, while the remaining 33 scholars are from other categories of Ugandan nationals.

Some of the Africa Climate Collaborative Scholars pose for a group photo after receiving their award letters. Award Ceremony for Cohort 2 of 50 young people to pursue Master's studies under the Africa Climate Collaborative, an initiative supported by the Mastercard Foundation for the 2026/2027 academic, 20th August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) Auditorium, Main Campus, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the Africa Climate Collaborative Scholars pose for a group photo after receiving their award letters.

The new cohort brings the total number of Master’s scholars supported by the Africa Climate Collaborative to 85, out of the 250 Master’s scholarships planned over the eight-year implementation period.

The programme has also awarded scholarships to 18 PhD scholars, out of the 40 PhD scholarships expected to be awarded during the programme period.

Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibrahim Okumu, Dean of the School of Economics, welcomed the new scholars to Makerere University and congratulated them upon receiving the scholarships.

He described the occasion as a celebration of diversity, inclusion, education, and the strong partnership between Makerere University and the Mastercard Foundation.

Prof. Okumu noted that the scholarships provide academically talented young people with opportunities to pursue their education regardless of their background or circumstances. He encouraged the scholars to view the scholarship not only as an award but also as a responsibility to lead, innovate, and serve their communities.

Prof. Okumu, the Dean School of Economics, represented the Vice Chancellor at the event. Award Ceremony for Cohort 9 of 258 recipients of the prestigious Mastercard Foundation scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic, 20th August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) Auditorium, Main Campus, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Okumu, the Dean School of Economics, represented the Vice Chancellor at the event.

He urged them to make full use of Makerere’s academic resources, mentorship, and networks while maintaining discipline, integrity, and a clear vision for their future.

He also appreciated the Mastercard Foundation, programme teams, university leadership, and staff for supporting the initiatives and creating opportunities for young people to contribute to Uganda and Africa’s development.

Mr. Adrian Bukenya, Country Director of the Mastercard Foundation in Uganda, challenged scholars to view their opportunity not simply as an academic award but as a platform to become transformative leaders capable of creating solutions for their communities and Africa.

Bukenya encouraged the scholars to take full advantage of their experience at Makerere University, build meaningful relationships, and apply the knowledge and skills they acquire to address challenges around them. He emphasised that the responsibility of a scholar extends beyond personal success to creating positive change for families, communities and society.

Mr. Adrian Bukenya, Country Director, Mastercard Foundation. Award Ceremony for Cohort 2 of 50 young people to pursue Master's studies under the Africa Climate Collaborative, an initiative supported by the Mastercard Foundation for the 2026/2027 academic, 20th August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) Auditorium, Main Campus, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Adrian Bukenya, Country Director, Mastercard Foundation.

He urged the scholars, particularly those joining the Africa Climate Collaborative, to see themselves as part of a wider effort to address Africa’s development challenges through innovation, leadership, and practical solutions. Africa Climate Collaborative seeks to equip young Africans with knowledge, skills, and resources to respond to climate change while promoting sustainable solutions, innovation, entrepreneurship, and green jobs.

“You need to solve problems. Remember, you’re not here to be part of the problem,” Mr. Bukenya told scholars before reminding them that their success carries a responsibility to give back and contribute to transforming their communities and the continent.

The Africa Climate Collaborative Programme Director, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, described the scholarship award as more than an opportunity for young people to obtain university education. She said the scholarships represent a strategic investment in Africa’s human capital at a time when communities across the continent are increasingly experiencing the effects of climate change.

“Climate change is no longer a distant challenge. Communities are already experiencing changing rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, floods, declining agricultural productivity, environmental degradation, and other challenges affecting livelihoods, economies, and ecosystems,” Prof. Nabanoga said.

Prof Gorettie Nabanoga, Program Director Africa Climate Collaborative. Award Ceremony for Cohort 2 of 50 young people to pursue Master's studies under the Africa Climate Collaborative, an initiative supported by the Mastercard Foundation for the 2026/2027 academic, 20th August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) Auditorium, Main Campus, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof Gorettie Nabanoga, Program Director Africa Climate Collaborative.

She encouraged the scholars to take full advantage of their time at Makerere University by engaging with lecturers and mentors, participating in research and innovation activities, collaborating across disciplines, and learning from communities before challenging them to go beyond obtaining academic qualifications and develop the ability to identify problems, ask relevant questions, and generate solutions that can contribute to a more resilient and sustainable Africa.

Mercy Malende, one of the scholarship beneficiaries pursuing a Master of Science in Agricultural Engineering, expressed excitement about being among the 50 young people selected for the Africa Climate Collaborative scholarship.

She said the scholarship has given her an opportunity to pursue her academic goals while gaining knowledge and skills that will enable her to contribute to addressing climate change challenges in Uganda. She appreciated the Africa Climate Collaborative and its partners for investing in young people and creating opportunities for them to advance their education. She said she looks forward to making the most of the opportunity and using her knowledge to contribute to sustainable agricultural development.

Mak Editor

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Makerere University Welcomes a New Cohort of 258 Mastercard Foundation Scholars

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A cross-section of Cohort 9 Scholars pose in a photo with officials shortly after getting their award letters. Award Ceremony for Cohort 9 of 258 recipients of the prestigious Mastercard Foundation scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic, 20th August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) Auditorium, Main Campus, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

On 20th August 2026, Makerere University welcomed another cohort of 258 recipients of the prestigious Mastercard Foundation scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic year with pomp and fanfare. The colourful Scholarship Award Ceremony was presided over by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, who was represented by Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu, the Dean of the School of Economics and the Chairperson of the Scholars Selection sub-committee of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.

While addressing the gathering, Prof. Nawangwe reminded the Scholars that the scholarship was both an honour and a responsibility, and that they ought to make the most of it to improve their lives and communities.

“Now that you have stepped through the gates of Makerere University, remember that a scholarship is both an award and a responsibility. You have been chosen because we believe in your potential to lead, innovate, and serve. Makerere University offers you world-class academic resources, mentorship, and networks—but the impact you make with these resources will depend on your discipline, integrity, and vision,” Prof. Nawangwe remarked.

A Call for Responsible Living

The Vice Chancellor further urged the new recruits to embrace university life responsibly and form lasting bonds that will support future networks.

Prof. Okumu, the Dean School of Economics, represented the Vice Chancellor at the event. Award Ceremony for Cohort 9 of 258 recipients of the prestigious Mastercard Foundation scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic, 20th August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) Auditorium, Main Campus, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Okumu, the Dean School of Economics, represented the Vice Chancellor at the event.

“I encourage you to engage fully and responsibly in University life, build lasting bonds with your peers, and, equally important, keep your home communities close to your heart. Let the knowledge and skills you gain here become the seed for innovative solutions to the challenges facing your communities, our country, Uganda, and the African continent.” Prof Nawangwe emphasised.

Prof. Nawangwe further expressed his gratitude to the Mastercard Foundation for recognising Makerere University as a worthy partner and pledged to continue supporting all the Mastercard Foundation’s initiatives at Makerere University.

Leadership starts with self

Mr. Adrian Bukenya, the Senior Director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program globally and the Country Director for Uganda, urged Scholars to embrace leadership, particularly through self-leadership. He emphasised that the Scholars Program is fundamentally a leadership development program.

“The Scholars Program offers more than just a scholarship; it is a leadership development Program. I encourage you, Scholars, to embrace leadership, and leadership starts with leading yourself, then your community, your country and the continent,” Mr. Bukenya emphasised.

Mr. Adrian Bukenya, speaking at the event. Award Ceremony for Cohort 9 of 258 recipients of the prestigious Mastercard Foundation scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic, 20th August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) Auditorium, Main Campus, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Adrian Bukenya, speaking at the event.

Mr. Bukenya expressed his gratitude to the Management of Makerere University for partnering with the Mastercard Foundation on various initiatives. He emphasised that the Foundation is committed to continuing this partnership to educate young people and nurture the next generation of leaders on the African continent.

Selection Process Highlights

On his part, the Chairperson of the Scholars Selection Committee, represented by Mr Charles Ssentongo, the Deputy Academic Registrar responsible for Undergraduate admissions, congratulated all the Scholars who had made it through a very competitive and watertight selection process. To illustrate how tight the selection process had been, he shared compelling statistics that clearly demonstrated its competitiveness.

“We received 3,664 Applications for the Scholarship; 2,904 Undergraduates and 760 master’s students. Of these scholarship applicants, 1,440 Undergraduates and 280 Master’s students were admitted to Makerere University on private sponsorship, and they were all eligible for the Scholarship,” Mr Ssentongo pointed out.

L-R: Mr. Charles Ssentongo, Mr. Adrian Bukenya, and Prof. Ibrahim Okumu, awarding one of the Scholars. Award Ceremony for Cohort 9 of 258 recipients of the prestigious Mastercard Foundation scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic, 20th August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) Auditorium, Main Campus, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
L-R: Mr. Charles Ssentongo, Mr. Adrian Bukenya, and Prof. Ibrahim Okumu, awarding one of the Scholars.

Mr Ssentongo informed the attentive audience that one of the biggest challenges the Committee faced was the very high number of applicants, while the number of scholarships available was always very small. Mr Ssentongo then highlighted further statistics that characterised the tedious selection process.

“For the Undergraduates, 650 applicants were shortlisted for interviews, while 58 Master’s applicants were also shortlisted. Of these, 245 undergraduates and 13 Master’s students were selected for the final award,” Mr Ssentongo highlighted.

Celebrating A Diverse Cohort

The Program Director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, used the occasion to highlight achievements made in the years gone by.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa addressing the gathering at the event. Award Ceremony for Cohort 9 of 258 recipients of the prestigious Mastercard Foundation scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic, 20th August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) Auditorium, Main Campus, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa addressing the gathering at the event.

“Today, we are overjoyed to have successfully recruited 258 Cohort 9 Scholars—bringing us to the mark of 546 Scholars, 54.6% of the target recruitment of 1,000 Scholars under Phase II of the Program. To date, a total of 1,596 Scholars have been recruited since 2013, when the Scholars Program started at Makerere University,” Prof. Namaalwa announced.

Prof. Namaalwa showcased the diversity created by the Scholars Program, highlighting the arrival of international students from across the African continent at Makerere University through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

“For Cohort 9 Scholars, it’s time to celebrate our diversity in the Program. Let me call out the nationalities represented in the room: Lesotho (1 Scholar), Malawi (1 Scholar), Ghana (1 Scholar), D.R. Congo (13 Scholars), Cameroon (7 Scholars), Burundi (3 Scholars), Rwanda (10 Scholars), South Sudan (40 Scholars) and Tanzania (1 Scholar).” Prof. Namaalwa revealed.

Prof. Namaalwa, posing for a photo with International Scholars. Award Ceremony for Cohort 9 of 258 recipients of the prestigious Mastercard Foundation scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic, 20th August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) Auditorium, Main Campus, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Namaalwa, posing for a photo with International Scholars.

Scholars Speak Out

Nathan Tamba, an international student from Cameroon, conveyed his enthusiasm regarding the opportunities afforded by the scholarship, particularly the prospect of pursuing his studies at Makerere University, recognised as one of the leading institutions on the continent.

“On behalf of my fellow scholars, I would like to express our gratitude to Makerere University and the Mastercard Foundation for awarding us this scholarship. It has given me the opportunity to study at this prestigious university and to experience Uganda for the first time.” Tamba remarked.

Tamba, clearly delighted like his fellow scholars, committed to using the scholarship opportunity to gain knowledge and skills he will use to benefit himself and his community.

Nathan Tamba, an international student from Cameroon speaking at the event. Award Ceremony for Cohort 9 of 258 recipients of the prestigious Mastercard Foundation scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic, 20th August 2026, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) Auditorium, Main Campus, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Nathan Tamba, an international student from Cameroon speaking at the event.

The function was punctuated by entertainment from the Makerere University Choir, networking, and plenty of joyous celebration.

Bernard Buteera is Principal Communications Officer for the Scholars Program at Makerere University.

Bernard Buteera

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