General
Makerere Students share experiences, connections and inspiration at inaugural For Youth, By Youth Conference in Turkey
On 16 November 2025, six students from Makerere University travelled to Turkey to join 69 peers from other prestigious universities for the inaugural For Youth, By Youth Conference on Conscious Leadership and Global Solidarity. The two-day conference was organised by the Talloires Network of Engaged Universities, in collaboration with paNhari and Sabancı University, and supported by the Mastercard Foundation.
During the Conference, held between 17 and 18 November, students participated in a variety of activities, including panel discussions, presentations, and the drafting of the For Youth, By Youth Movement Charter and the Talloires Declaration, the first of its kind to be drafted entirely by students. For many of the students, this experience was the beginning of their journey of global impact and a rare platform to openly share their experiences, ideas and aspirations.
Student reflections after the conference
Naomi Ayebale, a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology student at Makerere University, who took part in the panel discussion “Struggles for Justice and Peace in Our World,” shared: “Attending this event felt like stepping into a space where every voice truly mattered. It was a reminder that no single, beautifully crafted story can ever capture what all our stories hold when woven together. Everyone came with their own truth, their own lens, and their own hope, and somehow it all fit.
“Being part of this movement fills me with a sense of joy, not just because of the cause itself, but because I get to stand alongside people who are not only demanding change but actively working to build it,” she said. “It’s energizing, but it also comes with a deep sense of responsibility. For me, being part of the For Youth, By Youth movement isn’t about how long I’ve lived; it’s about the experiences I carry and the problems I’ve witnessed firsthand. Those experiences have taught me not only what needs to change, but also how meaningful that change can be.”
Tyobo Harriet Yake, a final-year student at Makerere University pursuing a BSc in Biomedical Engineering and one of the inaugural cohort participants of the For Youth, By Youth movement, remarked: “For me, it was amazing and exciting to meet young people from different countries who share similar beliefs and ambitions,’ she said. “Conversations like these created a safe space where victims of injustice could share their stories openly. It inspired me to return to my community and continue doing whatever I can, however small, to make life better for those facing similar circumstances.
“I felt a strong sense of unity, and the words of the famous song ‘Different colors, one people’ truly came to life. I loved trying foods I couldn’t even pronounce but absolutely enjoyed. It was a full package of rich experiences in just a few days” she added.
“As I move forward, I’m reminded of John F. Kennedy’s quote ‘leadership and learning are inseparable.’ A leader learns through listening to the loud and silent voices of the community. It’s this conscious leadership that sparks transformation and fuels collective growth. This is the leadership I embrace in this journey” Harriet concluded.
Sandrah Naikambo, a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Information Systems and Technology, shared her reflections:
“From my experience at the conference and the movement in general, I learned that change isn’t just spoken about—it’s built. I witnessed young people who weren’t waiting for permission but using their own lived experiences to create real solutions. In that space, every voice mattered and every story had room to breathe. I walked away feeling seen, inspired, and connected with a purpose bigger than myself. This experience showed me that the youth are not the future, they are the present!”
Namwase Rinah Marion, a final year student at Makerere University pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work and Social Administration, and a former Guild Minister for Students with Disabilities in the 89th Guild remarked:
“It was exciting to meet young leaders from across the world who had ambitions towards change in their respective communities and universities,” she said. “The international conference did not only expose me to fellow determined leaders but also inspired me to push hard for success as I got to know there is nothing without us. We are the leaders of tomorrow, and the program entrusted us; so, we are the change makers of today and tomorrow. Young leaders for a better world.”
The For Youth, By Youth movement was born from the vision of 36 Next Generation Leaders from 18 countries, including Makerere’s Harunah Damba and Patrovas Okidi, who, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, worked together to stitch the threads that would later give rise to the movement. They organized local community and campus events, engaging directly with young people, communities, and universities to identify the issues that mattered most to them.
In recognition of the university’s support and as a gesture to strengthen ties with university leadership, Harunah and Patrovas presented a plaque to Vice Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, honouring Makerere University’s support for the Next Generation Leaders Program in December 2023.
Reflecting on their experience, Harunah, now a Makerere University alumnus, said: “It was such an honour for me to be part of the inaugural For Youth, By Youth conference. Seeing the fruits of our hard work finally come to life is something that sits very close to my heart. I can’t think of any work that would be more rewarding, more encouraging, or more inspiring than this.”
Patrovas, a Master of Science in Bioinformatics student at Makerere University, said: “The For Youth, By Youth movement is a testament of what young people can do when organised, from its birth to the very first international conference, it has been led by youth and for the youth who are guided by values of respect, humility, kindness, impact, solidarity, hope, levity, collaboration, and inclusivity. The conference echoed one clear message I would love to pass on to everyone out there, our movement is a values-based civic infrastructure of engaged universities and a nimble network of virtual spaces. To solve multiple intersecting crises, education must evolve into regenerative, living systems rooted in community. Universities should represent all members of society, and be able to speak truth to power, and to centre empathy as the heart of learning and belonging. Youth must be co-creators in solving global challenges, while universities steward safe spaces for critical discourse and shared learning.”
He added “Echoing the voice of Lorlene Hoyt and others: For Youth, By Youth… it’s not a program — it’s a movement. Look out 2045, we’re just getting started. – this is our sense of belonging.”
On Saturday, 5th September 2026, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs urged the Makerere University community to actively engage in local philanthropy as a vital way to support vulnerable members of our society. Prof. Ssali shared this message during the Community Open Day for Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University, where Prof. Claire Mack Mugasa, Dean of the School of Biosecurity, Biotechnology, and Laboratory, represented her and served as the guest of honour.
At the event attended by Mastercard Foundation Scholars (Mak Students and Alumni), mentors, partners, and the broader university community, Prof. Ssali emphasised the importance of giving back to the community. She expressed her appreciation for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, highlighting their commitment to generosity. Prof. Ssali encouraged the entire university community to adopt similar practices, fostering a culture of social responsibility that shall positively influence and uplift surrounding communities.
“We gather here today not simply for an event, but for a statement of intent. The Community Open Day is a platform built on the conviction that education, paired with a spirit of national service, can transform not only individual lives but entire communities,” Prof. Ssali remarked. “I therefore call upon the Makerere University community to embrace the spirit of giving back to our communities. It is one of the ways through which the university will positively impact the less advantaged amongst us,” Prof. Ssali added.
Ms. Maria Mugerwa, the Head of Finance at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, who represented the Foundation at the event, emphasised that giving back to the community is at the core of everything the Foundation does.
“I thank you, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars community at Makerere University, for bringing us together for this Community Open Day, one of the activities that sits at the heart of Mastercard Foundation: using opportunities to create opportunities for others.” Ms. Mugerwa remarked.
“Today is about community, connection and giving back. Giving back doesn’t require big projects or significant resources; it simply requires identifying a problem in your community and asking yourself what I can do about it.” Ms. Mugerwa pointed out.
Rotarian Francis Wangi, the day’s keynote speaker, reminded the scholars and guests present of the importance of giving back to the community. He noted that individuals’ success is tied to others’ well-being.
“Let us always think about others: ‘I am because we are.’ Our individual success is tied to the well-being of our neighbours, our villages, and our nation.” Wangi noted.
Mr. Wangi reminded the gathering that giving back to the community was not an act of Charity; rather, it was a fundamental responsibility of leadership.
“Giving back to the less advantaged in our communities is not an act of charity; it is a fundamental responsibility of leadership. True influence is measured by how much we lift others as we rise.” Wangi emphasized.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, Program Director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, represented by Ms. Jolly Okumu, stated that the Foundation considers education as equipping and empowering transformative leaders, a means to prepare young people to use their skills and networks for meaningful contributions to their communities.
“The Mastercard Foundation believes that education goes beyond acquiring knowledge and qualifications; it is also about developing young people who are prepared to apply their knowledge, skills and networks to contribute meaningfully to their communities.” Prof. Namaalwa remarked.
Prof. Namaalwa applauded the Mastercard Foundation Scholars (Mak Students and Alumni) for embracing the spirit of giving back through tangible community projects. Highlighting that the community open day was an opportunity to celebrate the community impact to date and launch a journey of change for yet another disadvantaged community.
“As we gather today, we celebrate the long-term community impact through the many transformative projects delivered since 2015, and we, the Scholars Program Community at Makerere University, are here to continue on the same journey with yet another community; we are here to demonstrate that every individual has something to offer in the transformation of our communities,” Prof. Namaalwa noted.
Mr Paul Wandera Makhulo, the Chairperson of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Association at Makerere University, used the occasion to remind his fellow young people of the importance of giveback as one of the ethos of Mastercard Foundation.
“To my fellow Scholars, I make a special appeal: Let us own Giveback. Let us not see it as an initiative belonging only to your nominated Executive Committee or the Giveback Committee; let us see it as our responsibility as Scholars.” Wandera pointed out.
Mr. Elphas Khamala, the representative of the Scholars Council and Chairperson of the Giveback Committee, used the event to raise awareness of the 2026 Scholars Giveback Project. He said the project aims to raise UGX 86 million to build a two-classroom block with 60 bench desks, improve sanitation by constructing a ventilated pit latrine, and install a water-harvesting system at Eastern Gate Nursery and Primary School in Amuru District.
The school is in Pacilo parish, Atiak subcounty, Amuru district, about 8-10 km from the South Sudan border. It was established in 2023 as a community initiative and has not received external funding. It currently has about 164 learners, from nursery to Primary Seven, and 10 teachers, including children from the refugee communities.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and its partner initiative, the Africa Climate Collaborative, organised the Scholars Community Open Day in collaboration with DFCU Bank and other partners, including FINCA Bank, Tamani Solutions, and Katumba Estates.
Held under the theme “Together for Impact: Celebrating Innovations and Giveback,” the event brought together Scholars (Mak Students and Alumni), the university community, partners, and members of the public to celebrate community initiatives and gather support for the 2026 Scholars’ Annual Day of Service.
Of the targeted UGX 86 million, undergraduate and graduate Scholars and Program Team members will raise at least UGX 30 million, while the remaining funds will be mobilised from partners; university leadership and alumni are expected to mobilise the remainder. The funds will finance a two-classroom block estimated at UGX 63.5 million, 60 bench desks at UGX 6 million, a staff latrine at UGX 8 million, and a 10,000-litre water tank with a water-harvesting system estimated at UGX 8.5 million.
Background
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program began its first phase in 2013 at Makerere University, marking the start of an impactful partnership. In 2023, this collaboration was renewed with the launch of Phase Two of the Scholars Program. Central to this initiative are activities focused on community engagement and giving back, which play a vital role in fostering leadership development among scholars.
Bernard Buteera is the Principal Communication and Public Relations Officer for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
General
Celebrating a 26-year Legacy at Makerere: Deputy AR Mr. Charles Ssentongo hands over to Mr. Justus Karegyeya
Hot on the heels of completing 26 years of exemplary service and unwavering dedication to Makerere University, Mr. Charles Ssentongo has today 10th September 2026 officially handed over the office of Deputy Academic Registrar – Undergraduate Admissions and Records to Mr. Justus Karegyeya. Mr. Ssentongo held this position for 16 years in both acting and substantive capacity.
The transition was completed during an official handover ceremony held at the Senate building, Level 3, in the presence of the Academic Registrar Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, staff, and colleagues who gathered to celebrate Mr. Ssentongo’s monumental contribution to the University and also witness the handover as he retires from University service.
Appreciation for Mr. Ssentongo’s Contribution to the Academic Registry at Mak
Prof. Buyinza commended Ssentongo for inviting staff and collegaues to what he called an important and symbolic moment.
He acknowledged this as a moment of transition from one life cycle to another, and assured Mr. Ssentongo that Makerere University will always value his service, and he will remain an important part of its story and enduring legacy.
Considering that the two portfolios Ssentongo has been in charge of for the past 16 years; admissions and records, are the central pillars in any university, Prof. Buyinza commended him for having manned them with a distinction.
He further reiterated that these two pillars, admission and records, are where control over who is admitted, and protection of the academic awards of the university is exercised. Mr. Ssentongo, Prof. Buyinza noted, has executed this dual task very well through a strong commitment to safeguarding the university systems and processes. His was a tenure defined by diligence, integrity, professionalism, and devotion.
Prof. Buyinza further thanked him for having helped strengthen the records management system in the university by ensuring personal academic documents are secured from unauthorised access.
“We do not see these documents flying all over. So, we thank you for having contributed to the advancement of our systems and to greater efficiency” Prof. Buyinda expressed.
Beyond technical contribution, Ssentongo’s integrity, humble disposition, demeanor, credibility, and willingness to support others was commended, for he has used this to mentor as many staff as possible. As Mr. Ssentongo, steps out of office, he leaves behind a very strong, formidable team that will carry forward his legacy.
Prof. Buyinza extended the University Management’s sincere gratitude to Mr. Ssentongo for the many years of dedicated service to Makerere, and renewed its commitment to continue strengthening the processes that have been built.
Mr. Charles Ssentogo’s Handover message and ceremony
While delivering his handover speech, Mr. Charles Ssentogo thanked God and Makerere University Council for the opportunity given to him to work here since January 2000.
He shared that since he joined as an Assistant Registrar, he has been deployed in the Undergraduate Admissions and Records division where he has grown through the ranks. And whereas Ssentongo was appointed as the Head of the division and Acting Deputy Academic Registrar in 2010, it was not until 2018 when he was confirmed in substantive capacity.
He extended heartfelt appreciation to all supervisors that he was privileged to work under and thanked them for the support and guidance rendered to him.
Key Achievements highlighted during his tenure:
- Mentoring and training of staff.
- Advertising accredited programmes.
- Managing government-sponsored student admissions for all public universities.
- Digitalising the admissions process via the ACMIS system.
- Successfully managing special admission schemes (such as mature age, district quota, disability, and sports) and amicably resolving admission disputes.
- Coordinating division activities with external bodies, including UNEB.
- Reorganising records through the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project for efficient electronic access.
- Conducting successful career guidance sessions in schools.
Counsel offered to the incoming Deputy Academic Registrar:
- Read and internalise policy for effective management of duties and informed dispensation of advice when called upon.
- Serve diligently by executing your duties timely and avoiding unnecessary arguments.
- Verify the handover report before signing it off.
Professional growth of Mr. Sentongo while at Makerere
Mr. Ssentongo joined Makerere University in 2000 as Assistant Registrar and was confirmed in the university service January 2002, and in 2006, was promoted to the position of Senior Assistant Registrar.
In 2009 he was posted to the Examinations and Transcripts Division as Head of Transcripts section, where he served for one year. In 2010 he was transferred back to Undergraduate Admissions and Records Division as its Head and designated as Acting Deputy Academic Registrar.
In 2018 he was confirmed as substantive Deputy Academic Registrar and Head of the Undergraduate Admissions and Records Division, a position he held until his official retirement on 9th September 2026.
Mr. Justus Karegyeya accepts to take on the position in acting capacity
In his remarks, Mr. Karegyeya formally accepted the interim appointment, admitting that he was experiencing a sense of both being overwhelmed and gratitude for the opportunity.
He highlighted his extensive history within the Division, admitting that this gives him a deep familiarity with the unit’s internal processes.
Therefore, in this new capacity, Karegyeya appreciated the mentorship the team has received from Mr. Ssentongo, which he emphasised has prepared them to execute their duties effectively.
He pledged to maintain operational continuity by picking up exactly from where his former supervisor left off, and continuing the specific tasks that were previously recorded. Karegyeya equally expressed his readiness to hold the position until the Human Resources Directorate completes the process of recruiting a substantive replacement.
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