Ugandan Graduate Ambrose Awany Wins Oxford Scholarship

Ambrose Awany, a Ugandan graduate, secured a Mastercard Foundation Scholarship to the University of Oxford in September 2026, culminating a long pursuit that involved four applications to Oxford and over 15 graduate applications, facing numerous rejections. Awany shared his journey on LinkedIn, emphasizing the collective effort of friends and mentors who supported him.

The rejection in the 2025/26 cycle was particularly challenging, but a friend, Acuda Aaron, encouraged him to apply again, leading to his successful application. Emmanuel Yengi, a secondary school friend, assisted by reviewing applications and conducting mock interviews.

Wamaitha Laureen helped Awany articulate his story authentically, while Charlestine Bob Elwange, a lecturer from Kyambogo University, provided references and continued to support him throughout the years. Awany expressed gratitude to his family, friends, mentors, and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for the opportunity, looking forward to engaging in global health discussions during his time at Oxford.