Ceaser Draza

Ceaser Draza, a graduate of Food Processing Technology from Kyambogo University, Uganda, has recently reached a remarkable milestone as a Mastercard Foundation Scholar at the University of Pretoria, South Africa, where he is pursuing honours in Food Science.Hailing from Terego, Northwestern Uganda, Ceasers journey has been one of resilience, determination, and a relentless drive to serve his community. His childhood was shaped by hardship: the early loss of his father left his mother as the sole breadwinner, working tirelessly on a small farm to provide for her children. She cultivated staples like maize, beans, sorghum, and cassava while we, her children, helped in the farm and sometimes laid bricks to earn extra income,Ceaser recalls. Despite their efforts, every school term was a struggle to stay in class.In 2005, after finishing primary school as the second-best pupil in his class, Ceaser faced the painful reality that his family could not afford secondary school fees. I remember the worry in my mothers eyes and the silent prayers at night, he shares. Refusing to give up, Ceaser joined his siblings in farming and bricklaying, saving every shilling he could. By the end of the year, he had raised enough to pay for school supplies and tuitiona first lesson in perseverance that would shape his path forward.Walking through the gates of Arua Public Secondary School in 2007, Ceaser carried more than books; he carried the hopes and sacrifices of his family. Late nights by candlelight, countless hours of study, and unwavering determination became his daily routine. His efforts paid off when he ranked among the top students in the Uganda Certificate of Education, earning a scholarship to Kings Way High School-Kitende, a transformative moment that opened doors to new opportunities.Ceasers academic journey continued to excel. He received government sponsorship to study Food Processing Technology at Kyambogo University, despite the growing responsibilities at home. With his mother now elderly and unable to work the farm, Ceaser became the primary breadwinner, supporting his nuclear family, his mother, and paying the fees of his youngest sibling. Yet, his commitment to service never wavered. As a teaching assistant, he mentored over 100 students, helping them gain confidence and guiding them through their transition from high school to university.In 2020, Ceaser joined Andre Foods International (AFI) as a Nutrition Assistant, working on the WFP Nutrition Project in refugee settlements at Imvepi and Rhino Camp. There, he witnessed both loss and resilience firsthand. What moved me most was the quiet strength of families who had lost almost everything, he reflects. Through initiatives like green vegetable farming and small animal husbandry, he empowered six farmer groups, totaling 60 women, to generate income. Within a year, each group had established VSLAs with revenues surpassing 1 million Ugandan shillings.In December 2024, Ceaser resigned from AFI after being selected for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria, a dream come true that allowed him to continue his studies while staying committed to mentorship and community service. As a Mastercard Scholar, he co-founded Dream Alive Network (DAN), mentoring over 300 prospective applicants of the Mastercard Scholarship, many of whom are now actively applying to the program. He also volunteers with Life of Purpose, supporting disadvantaged communities through clothing drives and other initiatives.Recently, Ceaser was elected Chairperson of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Representative Council for 2025/2026 at the University of Pretoria, reflecting his leadership and commitment to student empowerment.Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world, Ceaser affirms, quoting Nelson Mandela.To the youth in his community, he offers this advice:There are many scholarship opportunities out there for African youth. Do not let your background determine your future. If others have succeeded, why not you? Work with people, do not work in isolation, and stay committed. I wish you all the best in your applications.Ceaser Drazas journeyfrom the fields of Terego to the classrooms of the University of Pretoriais a testament to perseverance, mentorship, and the transformative power of education. His story reminds us that no matter the obstacles, hope, hard work, and community support can turn dreams into reality.