Gulu University Joins Mastercard Foundation Uganda Partner Convening

Gulu University officials on 14 August 2026 joined the Mastercard Foundation Uganda Partner Convening held at Mestil Convention Centre in Kampala.
The convening brought together partners implementing the Foundation-supported initiatives in Uganda to share experiences, achievements, lessons learned and impactful stories from young people whose lives have been transformed through the various programmes.
Gulu University was represented by Prof. Okello David Owiny, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, and Associate Prof. Basil Mugonola, Gulu University Coordinator of the Refugee and Host Community Youth Empowerment and Transformation Initiative (RETI), which is implemented under the consortium leadership of Muni University.
Gulu University’s participation in this important convening demonstrates the confidence and trust placed in the University through its partnerships, collaborative engagements and contribution to programmes aligned with the priorities of strategic partners such as the Mastercard Foundation.
During the event, project participants shared inspiring experiences and stories of transformation, highlighting how the initiatives have supported young people to acquire skills, access opportunities and transition into dignified careers and livelihoods.
The RETI project seeks to equip 100,000 young people aged 15–35 with relevant skills and support 70,000 of them to transition into dignified work across 15 refugee-hosting districts in Uganda.
Gulu University remains committed to strengthening strategic partnerships and contributing to initiatives that expand opportunities for young people, particularly youth in refugee-hosting communities, while promoting inclusive and sustainable socio-economic transformation.