Makerere, dfcu partner to drive innovation, student empowerment

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Makerere University has signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with dfcu Bank to deepen collaboration in education, research and student development.

The partnership signed on Friday, July 4, 2025, at Makerere University, aims to strengthen academic excellence, enhance research and innovation, and expand student support services. The MoU opens pathways for students to benefit from internships, employment opportunities, and mentorship offered by the bank.

The agreement was formalized by Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and dfcu Bank Managing Director Charles Mudiwa.

Nawangwe (centre), Mudiwa (left) signing the Memorandum of Understanding at Makerere University aimed at boosting cooperation between the two institutions. Looking on is James Churchill Ssentamu, the Guild president of Makerere University. (Photo by John Odyek)

The collaboration is anchored on three major initiatives designed to connect academic learning with real-world impact. These are: The Annual Tumusiime Mutebile Lecture, Mak Run and Student Development Programs

Honouring the legacy of the late Bank of Uganda Governor, Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile. dfcu Bank will co-sponsor this prestigious annual lecture, which hosts influential thought leaders to address pressing issues in economics and the financial sector.

dfcu will also support a range of student-focused initiatives, including leadership and skills development, cultural events, academic competitions, and co-curricular activities that prepare graduates for professional and entrepreneurial success.

For Mak Run, the bank joins corporate sponsors supporting the annual health and wellness event promoting community engagement among students, staff, and the public.

At the event to formalise the pact, Prof. Nawangwe hailed the partnership as a reinforcement of Makerere’s core mission.

“Through support for initiatives like the Tumusiime Mutebile Lecture, the Mak Run, and enhanced student services, we are better positioned to nurture graduates who will lead Uganda’s socio-economic transformation,” he said.

He emphasised that beyond financial support, Makerere aims to benefit from the bank’s ideas and industry experiences.

“Every graduate of Makerere University should leave with a company they have created,” Nawangwe added.

Mudiwa said the collaboration aligns with the bank’s commitment to youth empowerment and education.

“This partnership will open pathways for students to access financial services, gain practical experience, and meaningfully contribute to national development,” Mudiwa said.

Nawangwe (fifth Right), Mudiwa (fifth Left) pose for a photo with other officials after signing of Memorandum of Understanding at Makerere University aimed at boosting cooperation between the two institutions. (Photo by John Odyek)

He stressed the need for a mindset shift in higher education, saying “We must move from producing employee-ready graduates to entrepreneurial-ready graduates who can create jobs and drive Uganda’s 10-fold economic growth.”

As dfcu Bank marks 60 years and Makerere celebrates a century of academic excellence, Mudiwa noted that both institutions have a rich legacy and shared vision. He highlighted the bank’s role in supporting SMEs, a vital area for graduate employment.

The Guild President of Makerere University James Churchill Ssentamu expressed gratitude to dfcu Bank, saying its support will empower thousands of students.

Ssentamu applauded the bank’s commitment to internships and employment, pledging to promote awareness of the available opportunities.