General
The Color & Dance that marked International Students’ Cultural Day
The sounds of traditional Kenyan music playing over the loud chatter greeted you as you approached the venue. It is only when one rounded the corner that you’d indeed fully begin to conceive the source of all this animation.
The sounds of traditional Kenyan music playing over the loud chatter greeted you as you approached the venue. It is only when one rounded the corner that you’d indeed fully begin to conceive the source of all this animation.
The Livingstone hall quadrangle was lined at the upper edges with curious onlookers and at the lower terraces with an array of colors, flags, costumes, let alone the traditional artifacts and food that indeed heralded one to what was going to be a very colorful day.
The first-ever International Students’ Cultural day, held on the “superstitious” Friday the 13th November 2009 got off to a cloudy start with rain clouds looming ominously overhead and would have left the doubters teetering with anticipation of a rain soaked event, but this wasn’t to be as activities soon kicked off in earnest. First were the National Anthems from Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Sudan, Congo, the host nation Uganda and finally the Makerere Anthem.
Dignitaries from the representative countries then made their entrance with Mr. John U. Nzuve, Second Counselor Kenya High Commission leading the way. He was shortly followed by Ms. Anisa Mbega, Administrator Tanzania High Commission , Madame Okoto, representing her husband Ambassador Charles Okoto, Head of Mission, Congo Embassy . They were later joined by a representative from Government of South Sudan . On hand to welcome them were Prof. Venansius Baryamureeba , Ag. Vice Chancellor, Makerere University, Mr. John Ekudu, Dean of Students, Dr. Idris Rai, Dean Academic Affairs, Faculty of Computing & IT and student leaders.
The emcees of the day then announced the first item of the afternoon, a fashion show, where students from Rwanda set the pace with their flowing attires dominated by black, white and brown colors, followed by the Masai, with their predominantly red checkered attires for the men, with the women donning a more conservative maroon or purple topped off with decorative bead headgear for the women and shiny ornaments for the men.
They were shortly followed by the Congolese, with distinct print fabric, facial masks and other traditional fabric. The coastal tribes from Kenya then took to stage, with their long print dresses, head and body wraps meant to observe their mainly Moslem dress code. An elder from the Luo tribe then made his grand entrance, complete with a walking stick and fly whisk for good measure.
The graceful Tanzanian tribes were unmistakable with their calm demeanor, long tunics and wraps and the occasional headgear for the women. The Kamba and Luhya tribes followed suite before the Kalenjin made their elaborate entrance, complete with bow and arrows, spears and shields, and both traditional and modern day wear. The descendants of Gikuyu then brought up the rear, with their flowing wraps for both the men and women.
With all the traditional fashion paraded for the day, it was time for a musical interlude, and the Congolese students were only too happy to extend the courtesy. To the rhythmic overtones of the electric guitar that characterize lingala music, the students effortlessly demonstrated why this music and dance continues to dominate Central Africa and spillover into East Africa.
The Dean of Students then welcomed all the dignitaries present and thanked them for honoring the invitations. He lauded the organizers of the cultural day for their innovation, which would not only give a chance to the internationals to exhibit their various cultures but also offer a platform for the host institution to 
appreciate the diversity of cultures therein. He then welcomed the Guest of Honor to make his remarks.
Prof. Baryamureeba thanked the organizers and participants for their invitation and expressed how honored he felt to be officiating over such a colorful function. He recognized the importance of hosting such days as Makerere played and continues to play a key role as the regional hub of intellectual pursuit for East and Central Africa. Citing the Kenya’s current Head of State President Mwai Kibaki and former Tanzanian President H.E. Dr.(h.c.) Benjamin Mkapa; who was recently awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University he reiterated Makerere’s motto and indeed vision “We build for the future”
The dances then continued in earnest with the Luo of Kenya taking to the stage first. Accompanied by an overzealous trumpet blower, this dance was characterized by passionate gyration and singing. They were shortly followed by the Tanzanian community backed up by eager drummers. The initial calm demeanor during the fashion show quickly gave way to an enthusiastic ensemble commandeered by an even more enthusiastic fellow, who left the audience wowed with his agility despite his size.
The guests then moved on to view the exhibitions of traditional artifacts, brews, dishes and medicine, receiving samples from the Luo, Kikuyu, roasted meat from the Luhya, viewing coconut oil extraction tools from the Pwani Kenyan Coastal tribe, medicinal exhibits of the Kamba and a variety of food from the Bakusu of Kenya.
The delegation then moved over to the Rwandan display where they viewed traditional artifacts such as baskets, gourds and traditional methods of churning butter and ghee. Thereafter they proceeded to the Congolese exhibition, where food and wooden artifacts were on display.
The last of exhibitions was the Tanzanian food display, where on the insistence of the exhibitors, the delegation sampled some of the culinary delights, while once again being entertained by the exuberant Congolese students.
A graceful entrance of Rwandan belles accompanied by rhythmic clapping, singing and drumming ushered in the Rwandan performance, complete with mock spears and shields, and elaborate headgear that accentuated the energetic stomping by the male dancers.
Quick to follow suit were the Luhya of Kenya with an elaborate dance complete with colorful costumes, which transcended into a circumcision dance and mock ritual performance. The Abagusi of Kenya then took to the stage, followed by the the loud singing but graceful dancing Kikuyu. The ritual preceded Kamba dance left the crowd chucking, followed by the humming and leaping Masai, who were eventually followed by the warlike Kalenjin dance, accompanied by the traditional arsenal.
All these colorful and energetic performances indeed paid tribute to the organizers of the inaugural International Students’ Cultural day and justified the notching of this event as a major item on the University Calendar. We can’t wait for next year.
By Betty Kyakuwa and Carol Kasujja
In this exclusive quick chat, we spoke to the 91st Guild President, Ssentamu Churchill James, a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Social Sciences. He shares insights into his leadership journey, key achievements, challenges, and his vision for the student community.
What inspired you to run for Guild President?
My background and personal leadership journey played a big role. Growing up, I saw my father and uncle actively involved in politics, which shaped my interest in leadership.
I also held leadership roles in high school—serving as Sports Minister at O-Level and later as Head Prefect at St. Juliana High School, Gayaza, during my A-Level. These experiences built my confidence and passion for representing others.
Seeing former Guild President Vincent Lubega Nsamba win also motivated me. We come from the same high school, and I succeeded him as Head Prefect. That gave me the belief that I, too, could lead at that level.
What was your vision when you assumed office, and how much of it did you achieve?
My vision was to amplify students’ voices and ensure their needs were prioritized. While it wasn’t easy due to bureaucracy, we made progress.
We improved students’ social welfare by engaging management, which led to greater flexibility in organizing events like the Bazaar and Freshers’ Ball. We also addressed the issue of missing marks. Previously, it could take semesters to resolve, but now, through the Office of the Academic Registrar, such issues can be handled much faster.
What is your biggest achievement?
One of the biggest milestones was allowing students to sit for examinations after paying at least 60% of tuition. This has reduced the number of students dropping out due to financial constraints.
We also saw the lifting of the ban on social events, which has gradually revived campus life. Additionally, leadership roles such as ministers and Guild Representative Councillors (GRCs) have become more functional, with clearer responsibilities and greater impact.
What key lessons have you learned?
One key lesson is the importance of daring to take action. Things may seem impossible, but once you step out and try, you realize they are achievable.
I also learned that leadership begins with influence. For example, when class representatives raised concerns about not being paid, I had to engage and influence them to understand the situation while working toward solutions.
Leadership also requires teamwork. You cannot lead alone—you need a support system. When you delegate, trust people and avoid micromanaging.
Another lesson is the importance of effective communication with management. Building strong relationships increases your chances of influencing decisions.
On a personal level, I have learned discipline—keeping time, improving how I present myself, and becoming more mindful in how I engage with others.
What do you attribute your success to?
First and foremost, God, who gave me the wisdom and understanding to lead.
I also attribute it to the strong working relationships I built with University leadership, especially the Vice Chancellor and the Dean of Students. Without that collaboration, it would have been difficult to achieve much.
How did you balance academics and leadership?
It required intentional planning and prioritization. When meetings clashed with tests, I delegated to the Vice President or Prime Minister. This ensured continuity while giving them an opportunity to grow.
However, I made it a point to attend critical engagements, such as Council meetings, because I was entrusted with representing students’ voices. I was also selective about external engagements to remain focused on my academics.
What challenges did you encounter?
Managing high expectations from students was a major challenge. Even small delays could attract criticism. For example, when students’ upkeep delayed by a week, some assumed I was not advocating for them.
I learned to remain calm and not react emotionally, instead using feedback as motivation to improve.
Another challenge was handling sensitive cases, such as advocating for students who had been suspended. Even when I did not agree with their actions, it was my duty to seek fair consideration on their behalf.
Was there a difficult decision you had to make?
Yes. Just a month into office, I made the decision to relieve a minister of their duties because they did not align with the cabinet’s vision and values. Leadership requires making tough decisions to maintain unity and integrity.
Is there anything you would have done differently?
I feel I could have engaged more with the administration. At times, I was occupied with activities outside the University, which limited my interaction with management. With more engagement, I believe I could have achieved even more.
What will you miss most?
I will not necessarily miss the office itself. Leadership is about service, and it is now time for others to take on that responsibility as I move on to the next chapter of my life.
How would you like to be remembered?
As a selfless leader who went the extra mile to serve others and always put students’ interests first—even when it required personal sacrifice.
For instance, during the Freshers’ Ball, we wanted to host a musician whose fee was UGX 4 million, yet we only had UGX 2 million. I personally covered the balance to make it happen for the students.
At Makerere University, the future didn’t feel distant, it felt urgent, alive, and within reach.
For three days in March, the university’s grounds transformed into a vibrant meeting point of ambition and opportunity as students, graduates, and industry leaders converged for the 2026 Careers Fair. Lecture halls spilled into exhibition spaces, conversations replaced uncertainty, and for many students, career dreams began to take clearer shape.
A Question That Defined the Moment: Man or Machine?
The opening day set the tone with a bold theme;“Machine vs. Man”, placing artificial intelligence at the center of career conversations. Students listened, questioned, and reflected as leaders challenged them not to fear technology, but to harness it.
The message was clear: the future belongs to those who can adapt.
Speakers emphasized that while AI is reshaping industries, it is also creating new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation. For many students in attendance, this was more than a discussion—it was a wake-up call to rethink their place in a rapidly evolving world.
Beyond Jobs: Unlocking Global Opportunities
If Day One provoked thought, Day Two opened doors.
The focus shifted to scholarships, fellowships, and international study opportunities, expanding students’ horizons beyond the immediate job market. Conversations moved from “What job can I get?” to “What possibilities exist for me globally?”
Students explored pathways into prestigious programmes, exchange opportunities, and further study options, discovering that their ambitions could stretch far beyond borders.
Where Potential Meets Purpose
By the final day, the Careers Fair had evolved into something deeper—a platform for connection.
Under the theme “Connecting Potential to Purpose,” industry leaders, employers, and development partners engaged directly with students, emphasizing collaboration as the key to career success.
Across Freedom Square and exhibition booths, students asked tough questions, shared ideas, and made meaningful connections. Employers, in turn, offered insights into the skills that matter most in today’s workplace—adaptability, creativity, and critical thinking.
More than 50 organizations participated, turning the fair into a living ecosystem of mentorship, networking, and opportunity.
Stories That Defined the Experience
But beyond the panels and presentations, it was the human moments that stood out.
There was the student who, after a conversation with a recruiter, discovered a career path they had never considered. The group of finalists who used simple tools like mobile phones to create powerful messages about safety and inclusion, reminding everyone that innovation often begins with what is available.
And there were countless quiet exchanges, handshakes, questions, shared laughter—that carried the weight of possibility.
A Bridge to the Future
What emerged from the three-day experience was not just a successful event, but a powerful reminder of the university’s role as a bridge, linking academic training to real-world demands.
The Careers Fair reaffirmed Makerere’s commitment to preparing students not just for employment, but for meaningful participation in shaping the future. It brought into focus a simple but profound truth: careers are not built in isolation—they are nurtured through connections, curiosity, and courage.
For many students who walked through the fair, the journey ahead no longer felt uncertain. It felt possible.
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