Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere Urged to Embrace Philanthropy

Scholars under the Mastercard Foundation Program at Makerere University have been encouraged to actively engage in philanthropy as a way of strengthening communities and ensuring sustainable development.

The call was made during the 2025 Scholars Community Open Day, held on Saturday, September 6, at Freedom Square, Makerere University. The annual gathering brought together current Scholars, alumni, and partners to launch a fundraising drive ahead of the Annual Scholars Day of Service, a flagship initiative through which the Scholars give back to society.

In a keynote address delivered on his behalf by Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta emphasized the need to strengthen local philanthropy.

“Communities that mobilise their own resources—financial, human, and material—are empowered to take ownership of their development. Ownership naturally leads to sustainability, ensuring that solutions emerge from local knowledge, context, and values,” Prof. Ireeta said.

He noted that Uganda already has a culture of giving, but argued that more structured and transparent platforms are needed to scale up its impact, particularly among the youth.

Speaking on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Transition Lead for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere, Mr. John Osuna, applauded the Scholars for turning the idea of giving back into practical action.

“Let us embody humility, kindness, and compassion through actionable philanthropy. By doing so, we can create lasting impacts, enhancing our reputation as a community that genuinely cares,” he said.

The event also attracted strong support from partners. Katumba Estates Ltd contributed UGX 3 million, while DFCU Bank pledged over UGX 10 million towards projects benefiting Bwera Primary School in Kabale District. The funds will go towards constructing a ventilated pit latrine, renovating classroom blocks, and installing water-harvesting tanks.

Alumni of the program encouraged current Scholars to give in whatever capacity they can. Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Mastercard alumna, shared her personal experience of paying school fees for a student in her home community.

“You don’t have to be wealthy to make an impact. Be intentional in your giving, and you will witness the difference it makes,” Akwara said.

The Open Day, held under the theme “Nurturing Philanthropy for Resilient Communities,” combined formal speeches with interactive activities such as auctions, raffle draws, exhibitions, and games. Scholars and alumni contributed by auctioning items, purchasing raffle tickets, and making personal pledges towards community projects.

Corporate partners, individual alumni, and Scholars reaffirmed their commitment to philanthropy as a cornerstone of the program’s mission to empower young leaders who not only excel academically but also give back meaningfully to their communities.