Access to quality education remains one of the biggest dreams for many young people in Uganda. However, school and university fees can be challenging for many families. Fortunately, several organizations, companies, and foundations in Uganda offer scholarships and bursaries to help bright and needy students continue their education.
In this article, we explore key scholarship opportunities available in Uganda and how students can benefit from them.
Government Scholarship Support
One of the main supporters of higher education funding in Uganda is the Higher Education Students’ Financing Board (HESFB). The board provides student loans and financial support to Ugandans admitted to recognized universities and tertiary institutions. These loans help cover tuition and sometimes living expenses, allowing students from low-income families to pursue higher education.
The Ministry of Education and Sports also shares opportunities for both local and international scholarships. Through partnerships with foreign governments and institutions, Ugandan students sometimes get opportunities to study abroad under sponsored programs.
NGO and Foundation Scholarships
Several non-governmental organizations operate scholarship programs aimed at supporting vulnerable and talented students.
A leading example is FAWE Uganda, which focuses on improving education access for girls and young women. Through partnerships, including programs supported by the Mastercard Foundation, many students receive bursaries, especially for science and technology courses at universities.
Other community organizations and charities across the country sponsor orphans, children from rural communities, and students from low-income families, ensuring they stay in school.
University-Based Scholarships
Some universities in Uganda offer scholarships based on academic performance or financial need. For example, Cavendish University Uganda provides tuition discounts and merit scholarships for high-performing students.
Many other universities also provide partial bursaries, so students are encouraged to ask about scholarship opportunities during admission.
Corporate Scholarships and CSR Programs
Private companies in Uganda also support education through corporate social responsibility programs. Telecom and energy companies, including firms like MTN Uganda, sometimes sponsor education projects or partner with NGOs to support learners in different regions.
Such programs may not always be widely advertised, so keeping track of company announcements and community programs can help students discover opportunities.
How Students Can Find Scholarships
Students looking for scholarships should:
Check announcements from government education offices.
Follow universities and NGOs on social media.
Ask schools about available bursaries.
Monitor company community programs.
Prepare strong academic results and community involvement records.
Final Thoughts
Scholarship opportunities in Uganda continue to grow as more organizations recognize the importance of education in national development. With proper research, preparation, and persistence, many students can find financial support to achieve their academic dreams.
Education remains one of the strongest tools for changing lives — and scholarships are helping make that dream possible for thousands of Ugandan students every year.
