By KT Reporter
The Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) Uganda Chapter, in partnership with the MasterCard Foundation and other NGOs, has launched a scholarship initiative aimed at boosting science education across 63 districts in Uganda.
With support from the United States government, the program targets vulnerable learners aged 18–25 who completed Senior Six between 2021 and 2024. Beneficiaries include orphans, learners from extremely poor families, those living with disabilities, and refugees.
The program provides scholarships to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) courses in universities and tertiary institutions. It specifically supports students who passed with at least a Principal Pass (E) or a subsidiary pass in subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Agriculture, but were unable to join higher institutions due to financial constraints. Such students are enrolled under bridging programs, which help learners meet minimum university entry requirements.
The 63 benefiting districts span across various regions and include:
Kole, Arua, Kotido, Kaabong, Napak, Moroto, Nabilatuk, Nakapiripirit, Amudat, Pader, Lamwo, Nwoya, Amolatar, Otuke, Adjumani, Obongi, Yumbe, Terego, Gulu, Lira, Moyo, Nebbi, Pakwach, Koboko, Mukono, Mubende, Kampala, Wakiso, Kalungu, Kasanda, Kalangala, Bukwo, Kween, Manafwa, Pallisa, Tororo, Kaberamaido, Katakwi, Amuria, Namayingo, Mayuge, Kapelebyong, Bulambuli, Kanungu, Isingiro, Kamwenge, Bundibugyo, Ntoroko, Kasese, Buliisa, Kiryandongo, Kikuube, Ibanda, Rubirizi, Kagadi, Kyegegwa, and Kabale.
Speaking at the program launch in Kabale District, Ken Rogers Mutebi, the Programs Manager at FAWE, said the initiative aims to support 700 learners, 500 of whom are girls. Beneficiaries receive full sponsorship, including tuition fees, and essential items like laptops, mattresses, bedsheets, blankets, and a suitcase.
However, Mutebi noted that surveys indicate many of the targeted girls failed Biology, a key requirement for medical-related programs, which could limit their admission to such courses.
Moses Bwengye Tumwijukye, the Kabale District Education Officer, welcomed the initiative, stating that it will support financially struggling learners who would otherwise fail to join university or tertiary institutions. He, however, expressed concern that poor subject combinations at A-level might hinder some learners from qualifying for science courses.
Flavia Nyinakiiza Kanagyizi, the Kabale District Speaker, also welcomed the program but urged stakeholders not to neglect learners interested in arts and humanities, arguing that such disciplines are equally vital for national development.
Martin Niwataho, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner for Kabale, lauded the initiative but proposed that the program also increase the number of boys it supports-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
